Understand

Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Zermatt! Nestled amidst the magnificent Swiss mountains, including the highest peak of Switzerland, Monte Rosa, it offers an unforgettable experience. But the true superstar here is the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain that remained unconquered until 1865. Zermatt is unlike any other city you've encountered. During the high season, around 20,000 people reside in a town with only a handful of streets. What's even more fascinating is the absence of cars and noise pollution. Instead, you'll find yourself in a serene and peaceful environment. Imagine sitting on your hotel balcony, surrounded by chirping songbirds, while witnessing a stunning sunset over one of the most awe-inspiring mountains in the western world. In Zermatt, you can explore the town safely. Most vehicles here are battery-driven and nearly silent. Beware, though, as taxi drivers might assume you possess eyes in the back of your head, resulting in occasional surprises. However, horse-drawn carriages equipped with bells add a charming touch to the streets. If you love cycling or leisurely strolls, Zermatt is a dream come true, offering complete safety and tranquility. And don't worry about language barriers; there is an English version of the Zermatt ski map/summer walking map available. Grab one at the lift stations or the Tourist Information center. Fun fact: The name "Zermatt" is a combination of the local dialect words "zer," meaning "to," and "matta," representing "field" or "meadow." So, it literally means "to the field," although now many of those fields are home to magnificent hotels and apartment houses. Get ready to fall in love with Zermatt's charm and captivating landscapes!

Get in

To make the most of your trip to Zermatt, the best way to arrive is by train. Once you're there, driving is not allowed. Trains run approximately every hour to Visp and Brig, where you can connect to the main Swiss Rail system with trains to popular Swiss destinations such as Geneva, Zurich, and Basel. You can find the train timetables on the Swiss Rail website at [2]. For foreign tourists, the most affordable option is likely a Swiss Transfer Ticket, which can be purchased outside of Switzerland and is valid from your point of entry to Zermatt and back. If you have a private car, you can drive as far as Tsch, but the remaining 7 km must be traveled by train or taxi. There is a convenient shuttle train that departs every 20 minutes during the day from the Matterhorn Terminal Tasch. The terminal has 2100 covered parking spaces, allowing you to easily transfer your luggage from your car to the shuttle and then on to the Zermatt train station forecourt. More information on parking and transportation options can be found at [3] and [4]. If budget is not an issue, you can also choose to fly into Zermatt with Air Zermatt. They offer flights from major regional airports, providing a unique aerial view of the stunning landscape. The closest airport to Zermatt is Sion, but most tourists prefer to fly into Geneva, Zurich, or Milan Malpensa airports due to their more frequent flight schedules. If you prefer a luxury transfer, you can also book a limousine or van from the airport to Zermatt with Swiss Limousine at [6].

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Fondue - Fondue is a traditional Swiss dish consisting of melted cheese, typically Gruyère and Emmental, mixed with white wine and served in a communal pot over a portable stove. It's traditionally eaten with cubes of bread, though other ingredients like meat, fish, or vegetables can also be dipped into it. This heartwarming dish is often enjoyed during winter evenings with family and friends.

Rösti - Rösti is a delicious Swiss potato dish that's crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Traditionally made by grating raw potatoes, onions, and sometimes apples, the mixture is then fried in oil until golden brown. Often served as a breakfast or dinner side dish, rösti can also be found with various additions like bacon, cheese, or herbs.

Chocolate Croissant - Switzerland is known for its high-quality chocolate, which is prominently featured in one of their most beloved pastries: the chocolate croissant. Flaky and buttery croissant dough is wrapped around a rich, velvety chocolate filling, resulting in a delectable treat that’s both crisp and indulgent. A popular choice for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these scrumptious pastries can be found at bakeries and cafés throughout the country.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing