Secret Tips for Tourists and Visitors in Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a car-free alpine paradise known for its breathtaking Matterhorn views, skiing, hiking trails, and luxury chalets. To make the most of your trip, here are some insider tips and hidden secrets for visiting Zermatt.
1. Transportation Tips: Getting to & Around Zermatt
- No Cars Allowed: Zermatt is a car-free village, so park your car in Täsch and take the shuttle train (Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn) to Zermatt.
- Best Train Ride: Travel via the Glacier Express from St. Moritz for one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
- Use Electric Taxis: If needed, electric taxis and e-buses operate within Zermatt for short distances.
- Rent an E-Bike: Exploring Zermatt by e-bike is faster and easier, especially for visiting hidden viewpoints.
2. Best Secret Viewpoints for the Matterhorn
- Riffelsee Lake – A hidden alpine lake offering a perfect reflection of the Matterhorn (visit early morning for the best photo).
- Sunnegga Paradise – Take the funicular to this less-crowded viewpoint with panoramic mountain views.
- Gornergrat Summit – The best 360° view of the Matterhorn and glaciers (take the scenic cogwheel train up).
- chwarzsee – A less touristy area with stunning Matterhorn reflections on the lake.
3. Skiing & Outdoor Adventure Hacks
- Free Ski Shuttle: The electro-bus system is free for skiers heading to lifts.
- Beat the Crowds: Take the first lifts (before 8:30 AM) for the freshest powder.
- Skip the Main Gornergrat Queue: Board the Gornergrat train from Findelbach or Riffelalp instead of Zermatt for shorter wait times.
- Night Hike & Star Gazing: Hike from Riffelalp to Zermatt at night for a surreal star-lit Matterhorn view.
4. Best Local Food & Hidden Dining Gems
- Try the Local Cheese: Zermatt’s Raclette and Fondue taste different due to the high-altitude dairy farms.
- Best Pizza in the Alps: Grampi’s offers wood-fired pizzas with a Matterhorn view.
- Hidden Alpine Hut: Chez Vrony (Findeln) serves organic Swiss dishes with a spectacular Matterhorn view.
- Secret Café Spot: Bäckerei Fuchs has the best homemade pastries and Swiss hot chocolate.
5. Budget Tips for Zermatt
- Get a Peak Pass: Covers unlimited cable cars, trains, and lifts—perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
- Stay in Täsch: Zermatt hotels are expensive; staying in Täsch is 50% cheaper with a short train ride to Zermatt.
- Buy Groceries & Cook: Eat at Coop or Migros supermarkets instead of pricey restaurants.
- Free Hikes with Best Views:
- 5-Seenweg (Five Lakes Trail) – Best Matterhorn reflection spots.
- Hike to Höhbalmen – Off-the-beaten-path with epic mountain views.
6. Packing Tips for Zermatt
Layered Clothing: Weather changes fast, so pack warm layers even in summer.
Good Hiking Boots: Essential for Zermatt’s rocky trails and snow paths.
Sunscreen & Sunglasses: High-altitude sun can be strong, especially when skiing.
Swiss SIM or eSIM: Zermatt has spotty WiFi, so get a Swiss SIM for better connectivity.
7. Hidden Adventure Activities in Zermatt
- E-Biking to Zmutt – A scenic village near Zermatt, perfect for an off-the-beaten-path ride.
- Night Skiing & Moonlight Fondue – Available on special dates at Sunnegga Paradise.
- Wildlife Spotting – Watch for ibexes, marmots, and eagles near Gornergrat.
Final Secret Travel Tips
Book Cable Car Tickets Online: Saves long wait times at ticket counters.
Stay at a Chalet Hotel: Hotel Matthiol and Hotel Bellerive offer cozy, Swiss chalet-style stays.
Wake Up Early for the Best Photos: The Matterhorn looks clearest at sunrise.
Swiss Travel Pass: Covers train rides, boats, and public transport for easy travel.
Enjoy the Magic of Zermatt!
Zermatt is a once-in-a-lifetime Alpine destination with breathtaking views, thrilling adventures, and cozy Swiss charm.