20 Incredible Things To Do In Zermatt In Winter
Zermatt is many things - a skier’s paradise, an idyllic alpine village, a relaxing mountain haven, a foodie’s heaven - the list goes on.
From a lively Aprés scene on the slopes, to high-end boutique stores in the village, Zermatt has so much to offer for skiers and non-skiers alike.
That’s why we have created this list of the best things to do in Zermatt, so you will know exactly how to spend your time in this most magical Swiss destination.
This Zermatt winter travel guide not only lists what to do in Zermatt in Winter, but will also provide you with inspiration for the best place to stay in Zermatt and winter, and outlines the easiest way to reach Zermatt in the winter too.
Thinking of visiting Zermatt this winter? This article is for you!
So, let’s dive into: 20 Incredible Things to Do in Zermatt in Winter
Disclaimer - this blog post contains affiliate links where we can earn a commission, if you make a purchase through them (at no extra cost to you).
Good to know: The Zermatt-Matterhorn website provides valuable information on the latest weather conditions in Zermatt, special events in the village, and everything you need to know about visiting this wonderful Swiss destination during winter.
Best time to visit Zermatt in Winter
The best time to visit Zermatt in Winter is generally anytime between the beginning of December to mid-March.
We visited Zermatt during the last week of January and the conditions were perfect!
The snow is amazing in January in Zermatt and the crowds are really low with it being after the Christmas period and before the busy February half-term season.
If January doesn’t work for you, we'd recommend visiting Zermatt at the beginning of March to avoid the crowds and the still having the best chance of great snow conditions.
In terms of how long to visit for - we experienced a magical 4-day Zermatt itinerary in Winter and it was amazing. If you can though, we recommend staying for at least 7 days!
Beautiful Zermatt in the snow
Where to Stay in Zermatt in Winter
When deciding where to stay in Zermatt, you need a hotel that fits certain criteria:
Close to all 3 major skiing areas
Great views of the Matterhorn
Wonderful, relaxing spa to enjoy after the slopes
Walking distance from the restaurants in town
The hotel we know that ticks all of these boxes is the Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin. This adorable boutique hotel is where we stayed during our trip to Zermatt and it is hands down one of the best hotels we have ever stayed in.
It’s 20m away from one of the best viewpoints of the Matterhorn and is home to a wonderful relaxation centre, including 4 different sauna rooms, a private jacuzzi and a silence room.
Distance from Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin to the ski lifts:
Sunnegga Funicular - 10 min walk along the river
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Gondola - 10 min walk
Gornergrat Railway - 10 min walk
That’s right, the hotel is directly in the centre of all 3 options for getting up to the slopes, making it one of the best located hotels in Zermatt.
We cannot recommend Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin enough - it’s the perfect place to stay in Zermatt in Winter!
We go into much more detail on this wonderful place to stay in our Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin Review
The view from our balcony at Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin
Best Things to Do in Zermatt in Winter
Skiing/Snowboarding
Let’s be honest: skiing/snowboarding is the main draw for visiting Zermatt during the Winter, and who are we to disagree? It is one of the best ski resorts in Europe for couples, after all!
Zermatt is home to 3 different ski areas, all reachable from the village and all accessible via a series of interconnected ski lifts and gondolas. Sunnegga is best for families and beginners, Gornergrat has a great selection of Apres Ski options, and the Matterhorn Glacier Ski Area is home to really long, cruisy red runs for hours of perfect skiing.
We really enjoyed starting our Skiing in Zermatt at Sunnegga in the morning and following the sun South towards the Gornergrat ski area in the afternoon.
Here we are riding the gondola ready to snowboard in Zermatt
Did you know? You can actually ski in Zermatt 365 days a year thanks to guaranteed snow all year round, making it one of the best ski resorts in Europe for couples.
2. Gornergrat Cog Railway Ride
Celebrating 125 years of operation in 2024, the Gornergrat Cog Railway is consistently voted the most scenic train ride in the world, and it is easy to see why once you start winding your way up the mountain.
With unrivalled views of the Matterhorn, the Gornergrat railway takes you from the village of Zermatt all the way to the Gornergrat Bahn (Gornergrat Station), where there is an incredible viewpoint of the Matterhorn.
A Zermatt ski pass allows unlimited rides on the train or, if you prefer, you can purchase a dedicated Gornergrat Train ticket - to save time, you can even buy your train ticket online here.
Is Zermatt worth visiting? Well, having the chance to ride Europe’s highest open-air cog railway was enough convincing for us!
Top tip: make sure to sit on the right-hand side (when facing forwards) of the train to get the best views of the Matterhorn on the way up.
Scenic Gornergrat Cog Railway
3. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Zermatt in Winter is to take a ride on the iconic Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Gondola and reach the highest cable car station in Europe.
At a whopping 3883m above sea level, the ride from Zermatt village to the top of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise takes around 40 minutes, with the final leg of the journey certainly not being for the faint-hearted.
Once at the summit, you are treated to spectacular panoramic views of the mountains stretching all the way into Italy - it was probably our favourite viewpoint in Zermatt, and there is a LOT of competition for that!
Again, you can buy your ticket at the base of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or save time by pre-ordering your ticket online here.
Top tip: before heading back down to Zermatt, make sure you visit the Glacier Palace for a chance to explore inside the Glacier itself!
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Viewing Platform
4. Winter Hiking
You are certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to hiking in Zermatt in winter. There are 70km of dedicated hiking trails that are well-maintained throughout the winter.
These range from hour-long jaunts like the Zermatt-Furi trail (Hiking trail 116), up to more strenuous hikes from Zermatt Village up to the Sunnegga Ski Area (Hiking trail 115).
Pick up a hiking map from the town tourist information centre and head to the hiking trails this winter in Zermatt.
Hiking from Rotenboden to Riffelberg on the Gornergrat Area
5. Stay overnight in an Igloo at Iglu Dorf
One of the coolest (literally!) experiences in Zermatt in Winter is getting the chance to stay the night in an igloo - Iglu Dorf, ‘the coolest resort in the Alps’, provides exactly that.
Found in the centre of the Gornergrat Ski Area, Iglu Dorf is an event space, bar and hotel. So you can stay the night and get the best possible views of the Matterhorn when you wake up. There’s even a whirlpool for you to enjoy!
Good to know: If you don’t fancy staying inside the igloo, it is possible to visit during the day to relax on the outdoor deck chairs for a spot of Apres Ski.
Fancy staying in an igloo overnight in Zermatt this winter?
6. Snowshoeing
Zermatt is home to 6 marked snowshoe trails, making snowshoeing an accessible and fun winter Zermatt adventure for many to enjoy.
You can rent snowshoes all throughout the village, but it is also possible to rent them from the Gornergrat, Rotenboden and Riffelberg stations along the Gornergrat Cog Trail Railway.
You can rent your snowshoes for 15 CHF per pair and head to the nearest trail. We recommend the Panorama Trail (Snowshoe Trail 142) from Rotenboden to Riffelberg, where you will pass a frozen lake along the way.
Good to know: it’s best to pre-order your snowshoe rental online before heading up the mountain to avoid being disappointed when you get to the station and they’ve run out.
7. Zermatt Tandem Paragliding
Perhaps the best thing for adrenaline-seekers to do in Zermatt in winter is to experience a tandem paragliding ride.
Offering unrivalled views of the area's countless 4000m mountain peaks, a Tandem Paragliding flight is undoubtedly the best way to see Zermatt and the surrounding area.
Typically, the flight lasts around 20 minutes and begins from Sunnegga or Gornergrat (depending on the weather conditions).
Sound like something you want to try? We recommend booking a Zermatt Tandem Paragliding flight online before arriving in Zermatt because it is one of the most popular things to do in Zermatt in Winter and we don’t want you to miss out!
Tandem Paragliding in Zermatt
8. Ride the Sunnegga Funicular
The Sunnegga funicular is the most efficient, quickest and cheapest option for climbing the mountains in Zermatt. The 4-and-a-half-minute underground funicular ride takes you from Zermatt Village to Sunnegga.
In winter, Sunnegga is the home of Wolli Park - the beginner skier’s area that is perfect for learning those first turns - as well as the beginning point for a number of pristine walking trails.
Good to know: a return ticket on the Funicular is around 20 CHF but is free with a dedicated ski pass.
View from the top of the Sunnegga Funicular
9. Cross-Country Skiing
If you prefer strapping on skis on a flatter surface, you’ll be in luck in Zermatt. While the area's topography makes it challenging to XC ski in the village of Zermatt, nearby Täsch offers the perfect conditions.
One stop on the train from Zermatt, Täsch is home to the Täsch Loop XC trail, which is the best place to head for a cross-country ski adventure in Zermatt in the winter.
10. Eat your Bodyweight in Swiss Cheese Fondue
You didn’t think we’d get through this article about the best things to do in Zermatt without mentioning cheese fondue at least once, did you?
It’s impossible to escape cheese fondue in Switzerland and Zermatt is no different. Whether you’re trying fondue in an igloo, or under the stars at the top of a mountain, it is going to be a culinary experience you’ll never forget and one of the most romantic things to do in Zermatt.
Good to know: For cute traditional vibes, we loved the cheese fondue at the Swiss Chalet, just off the main street in the village of Zermatt.
Cheese Fondue from Swiss Chalet restaurant
11. Dog-Sledding
A husky-driven sleigh ride in front of the iconic Matterhorn? Yes please!
Dog-sledding in Zermatt during Winter is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in this charming Alpine village - which says a lot when you see all of the incredible winter activities that Zermatt has to offer.
During the Husky Zermatt Experience you get to meet the dogs, feed and pet them, and listen to the musher (Husky owner) call out to the huskies as they power you through the slopes at Trockener Steg (Cable car station about halfway up the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise).
12. Wander around Zermatt Village
Part of the charm of visiting Zermatt in the Winter is being able to walk around this wonderful Alpine Village when it’s draped in a layer of snow - it is a truly magical experience!
Head to the ‘Hinterdorf’ area of the village to walk between traditional Swiss houses dating back to the 15th Century, or stick to the Bahnhofstrasse (Main Street) for a great selection of traditional restaurants and fancy outdoor shops.
Cute alpine buildings in Zermatt
13. Tobogganing
Bored of putting on those ski boots every morning but still want a thrill in the snow? Look no further than Tobogganing.
Tobogganing is one of the most underrated winter activities in Zermatt despite there being a number of dedicated tobogganing trails throughout the area.
Our favourite was the Rotenboden-Riffelberg tobogganing trail. Get off the Gornergrat train at the Rotenboden stop and hire your toboggan at the station for around 10 CHF pp. Slip and slide your way down the trail before dropping your toboggan off at the Riffelberg station.
14. Relax in a Spa
There is absolutely no better feeling than coming back to your hotel after a long day of skiing, putting on your hotel robes, and heading downstairs to the spa.
Not only is it incredibly relaxing and romantic, it is also really beneficial for your muscles and gives them the best chance of being prepared for another gruelling day on the slopes tomorrow.
15. Heli-Skiing
Is riding the 300+km of accessible slopes in Zermatt not quite enough for you? Then you should take the next step in Zermatt this winter by trying your hand at Heli-Skiing.
Air Zermatt, who provide helicopter rescue services in Zermatt, offer an array of once-in-a-lifetime heli-skiing opportunities that transport you directly to the freshest powder in Zermatt.
Dubbed the ‘fastest ski lift in the world’, a heli-skiing experience takes you to the top of otherwise inaccessible mountains, for you to jump out and carve your way back down to the village below. An absolutely phenomenal winter Zermatt experience!
Air Zermatt Helicopter on approach in Zermatt
16. Try Curling for the First Time
Fancy giving a new sport a go during your winter trip to Zermatt? Well, curling is definitely the best option!
The Zermatt Curling Club is one of the most successful in Switzerland, with former member Diego Perren winning Gold at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan.
Today, you can rent out a rink to try the sport with your friends or join an organised event with a local guide to show you the ropes. Curling is one of the best new experiences to try in Zermatt in winter.
Curling in front of the Matterhorn (Photograph: © Pascal Gertschen)
17. Brave a Fatbike Nightride
Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker, or a complete novice to the sport, a fat bike night ride is sure to be one of your most memorable experiences in Zermatt this winter!
While fat biking is adventurous enough during the day, during night-time, in the pitch-black of the Zermatt mountains, the experience really comes alive.
Special lamps illuminate the mountain biking trail, while you cycle your way up the 400m ascent. The best part? After all the hard work, you get the magical experience of cycling all the way back down again!
A guided tour by a certified Swiss Cycling Guide is the easiest way to experience a fat bike night ride during winter in Zermatt.
Night-time fatbiking in Zermatt (photo from Trip Advisor)
18. Take a Helicopter Tour of Zermatt
For the best views of Zermatt and the Matterhorn, it is hard to beat a helicopter tour of the area.
Air Zermatt offers different sightseeing flights in Zermatt, but we’d definitely opt for the ‘Flight around the Matterhorn’. Imagine being able to see this iconic mountain from all sides, from the comfort of a helicopter!
We unfortunately didn’t have the time to tick a helicopter tour of Zermatt off our bucket list, but you can be rest assured that it will prove to be one of the best things to do in Zermatt in Winter.
Air Zermatt - ready for its famous ‘Flight around the Matterhorn’
19. Visit the Matterhorn Museum
Do you want to learn more about the history of Zermatt, including the turbulent past of mountaineering ascents of the Matterhorn?
The Matterhorn Museum, found on the main Bahnhofstrasse in the village, is the best place to learn everything about this famous Alpine village.
The museum is completely underground, but despite this, they’ve managed to create the feel of a complete Swiss Alpine town - we were very impressed!
Open daily from 3-6pm, the museum entry fee is 12 CHF per person, or free with a Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Museum Pass.
Did you know? This year, the museum is featuring a special exhibition celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Gornergrat Cog Train.
Downstairs in the underground Matterhorn Museum
20. Ride the Slope Groomers at Night-time
One of the most unique things to do in Zermatt in Winter is to ride the slope groomers at night-time.
Nicknamed the ‘heroes of the night’ in Zermatt, the groomers are tasked with maintaining over 200km of groomed piste ski slopes. This kind of operation is no easy task, and this is your chance to get up close and personal to see how it’s achieved.
The Piste Preparation Experience as it is known, even gives you the chance to actually drive the 11-tonne groomer!! It isn’t the cheapest experience in the world, but it's definitely one of the most incredible things to do in Zermatt in Winter.
Best Way to get to Zermatt in Winter
Zermatt has always been a car-free destination, meaning the best way to get to Zermatt in Winter is by Train. The Switzerland train system is very comfortable and efficient, making it an easy ride to the slopes in Zermatt.
It is possible to drive as close as Täsch, 5km from the village of Zermatt. From here, you need to park your car and hop on the train for the final leg of the journey.
Unbelievably, another popular option for getting to Zermatt in Winter is to jump aboard a helicopter - which shows the calibre of people that visit Zermatt at this time of year!
Good to know: one of our budget travel tips for Zermatt is to look at investing in a Swiss Travel Pass. It allows unlimited access on trains and public buses in 41 cities and towns in Switzerland. Here’s everything you need to know about Zermatt and the Swiss Travel Pass.
Here’s a quick overview of the travel times to Zermatt from the closest major airports:
| Major Airport | Train | Car (to Täsch) | Helicopter Ride |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zurich | 3.5 hours | 3.5 hours |
1.0 hour |
| Geneva | 4.0 hours |
3.0 hours |
45 mins |
| Basel | 4.0 hours |
3.5 hours |
1 hour 10 mins |
| Milan | 4.0 hours | 3.5 hours | - |
| Sion | 2.0 hours | 1.5 hours | 15 mins |
| Bern | 2.0 hours | 2.5 hours | 35 mins |
FAQs about Zermatt in Winter
Is Zermatt worth visiting in Winter?
100%! We cannot stress this enough. Zermatt is the ultimate winter wonderland and when it's draped in a thick dusting of snow, it’s difficult to imagine there being a better winter destination anywhere in the world!
What are the best things to do in Zermatt for non-skiers?
Thankfully, Zermatt isn’t only for skiers, and there are plenty of other incredible things to do. We recommend riding the Gornergrat Cog Railway, seeing the Glacier Palace at the top of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and eating your body weight in cheese fondue!
How many days to stay in Zermatt in Winter?
If you’re planning to ski (or snowboard) in Zermatt, then you should stay at least 5 days in Zermatt in winter. The ski area is so vast that even with 4 full ski days, you’re unlikely to be able to get on every chairlift. If you want to do everything that Zermatt offers in the winter, though, a 7-day Zermatt stay is probably best.
For non-skiers, 3-4 days should be enough to see all the main highlights of Zermatt.
There we have it, folks, our conclusive round-up of incredible things to do in Zermatt in Winter. Zermatt is a true winter wonderland, and we were fortunate enough to tick off an amazing amount of activities from our bucket list in this truly wonderful Swiss Alpine village.
