Why Zermatt
Zermatt sits beneath the Matterhorn, probably the most recognisable mountain in the world. The car-free village combines a huge, high ski area linked to Italy with superb summer hiking, cogwheel railways and lakes that reflect the peak.
The key decision is inside Zermatt or down the valley. Staying in the village means waking up to the Matterhorn; staying in Täsch saves a lot and is only a short shuttle-train ride away.
Choosing by type of trip
- Ski-focused: an apartment or chalet in Winkelmatten, near the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise lift.
- Couple: a chalet in the old village or with a Matterhorn view.
- Family: a self-catering apartment, in Zermatt or Täsch.
- Summer hiking: the centre, close to the Gornergrat railway and Sunnegga funicular.
- Tighter budget: Täsch or Randa, outside peak holidays.
When to go
- Good time to save
- Peak season: pricier and busier
- ❄ Usual snow season
- A guide only: varies each year.
Winter (late November to April)
The ski area reaches high enough for reliable snow, and links over the border to Cervinia in Italy. Christmas, New Year and February school holidays are the busiest and most expensive; January after New Year and March outside Easter are better value.
Summer (June to September)
Hiking, mountain railways and lakes reflecting the Matterhorn. Some glacier skiing continues in summer high above the village. June and September are quieter than July and August.
Between seasons (May, October and November)
Many hotels, restaurants and lifts close for a few weeks. Prices are lowest, but check what is open before booking.
Getting there
- Zermatt is car-free. Trains run from Visp and Brig, connecting to Zurich and Geneva airports in roughly three and a half hours.
- Drivers park in Täsch, five kilometres away, and take the shuttle train into Zermatt.
- Inside the village you walk or use electric taxis and buses; many hotels offer station pick-ups.