Zermatt 6 Day Itinerary

Zermatt: A 6-Day Itinerary for Alpine Adventures

This itinerary balances iconic views with off-the-beaten-path experiences, catering to both thrill-seekers and those seeking serene mountain tranquility.

Things to Know:

  • Car-Free Village: Zermatt is a car-free village. Arrive by train (from Visp or Täsch) or take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn from Brig.
  • Swiss Franc: The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Language: German is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Altitude: Zermatt sits at 1620m. Be prepared for potential altitude sickness and stay hydrated.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Matterhorn Hostel (dorms and private rooms) or Hotel Alpenhof (simple, clean accommodations).
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Schweizerhof Zermatt (cozy with mountain views), Chalet Romantica (charming, traditional chalet).
  • Luxury: Mont Cervin Palace (historic grandeur), The Omnia (modern luxury with breathtaking Matterhorn views).

Transportation:

  • Gornergrat Bahn: Cogwheel railway for stunning Matterhorn vistas.
  • Sunnegga Paradise: Cable car to Sunnegga for hiking trails, restaurants, and a fun park.
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Gondola ride to Europe’s highest cable car station with glacier views.
  • Local Buses: Free within Zermatt village.

Day 1: Arrival & Village Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Zermatt by train. Check into your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the charming village, admire traditional wooden chalets, and browse boutiques.
  • Evening: Enjoy a fondue dinner at Walliserkeller (traditional ambiance) or Chez Heini (delicious Swiss cuisine).

Day 2: Gornergrat Panorama & Hiking

  • Morning: Take the Gornergrat Bahn to the summit (3089m). Soak in panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
  • Afternoon: Hike one of the scenic trails from Gornergrat, such as the Riffelsee trail for breathtaking reflections of the Matterhorn.
  • Evening: Dine at Zum See (traditional Swiss food with lake views) or enjoy a casual meal at Restaurant Spycher (pizzas and local dishes).

Day 3: Sunnegga Paradise & Activities

  • Morning: Take the Sunnegga funicular to Sunnegga Paradise. Enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery, explore hiking trails, or visit the playground for family fun.
  • Afternoon: Try paragliding over Zermatt for a thrilling aerial perspective (book in advance).
  • Evening: Relax and enjoy dinner at Chez Vrony (alpine cuisine with stunning views) or Zum Blumen (cozy atmosphere and traditional Swiss dishes).

Day 4: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise & Ice Palace

  • Morning: Ascend to Europe’s highest cable car station, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (3883m). Explore the ice palace, enjoy glacier hiking (with proper gear), and savor panoramic views.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in a luxurious spa experience at The Omnia or visit the Mountaineers’ Cemetery for a historical perspective.
  • Evening: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at After Seven (modern cuisine with Matterhorn views) or enjoy a hearty meal at Restaurant Findlerhof (traditional Swiss dishes).

Day 5: Hiking & Village Relaxation

  • Morning: Hike the Stellisee trail, offering serene reflections of the Matterhorn in a glacial lake. Enjoy packed lunch amidst nature’s beauty.
  • Afternoon: Explore Zermatt’s art galleries and museums, such as the Matterhorn Museum for insights into mountaineering history and local culture.
  • Evening: Indulge in a chocolate tasting experience at Läderach (renowned Swiss chocolatier) or enjoy a casual dinner at Pizzeria Ristorante Daniela (delicious pizzas and Italian specialties).

Day 6: Departure & Farewell Views

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with Matterhorn views from your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Take one last walk through the village, capturing final memories. Depart Zermatt by train for onward travel.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Zermatt Peak Pass for discounted access to mountain railways and attractions.
  • Pack layers of clothing as weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and sunglasses.
  • Book activities and restaurants in advance, especially during peak season.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Zermatt!