This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Wondering where to stay in Zermatt? You’re in the right place.
Zermatt is small and car-free, but choosing the right place to stay still matters! Some areas put you right in the heart of the village with easy access to everything, while others are all about quick lift access or waking up to unreal Matterhorn views. And when you add in mountain railways, funiculars, and hotels that book out far in advance, it can feel a little overwhelming at first!
To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the three best areas to stay in Zermatt, plus hotel picks for different budgets. Whether you’re looking for a practical base or a once-in-a-lifetime alpine trip, this guide will help you choose the perfect spot!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Zermatt Village! This central, car-free area puts restaurants, shops, lifts, and mountain railways all within easy walking distance.
We love Hotel Garni Testa Grigia for its central location, comfortable rooms, and great value for Zermatt.
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Zermatt
One of the things that makes Zermatt special is the fact that it’s completely car-free! This is a proper alpine village, and choosing where to stay here isn’t about neighborhoods in the traditional sense. Instead, it comes down to lift access and Matterhorn views—as well as atmosphere, of course!
It’s definitely worth knowing the logistics of Zermatt before you book. You can’t drive into the village, so if you’re arriving by car, you’ll need to park in Täsch and take the shuttle train into town. Once you arrive, getting around is super easy! Zermatt is very walkable, and there are electric taxis available if you need them.
Then, to get up in the mountains, you’ll typically use funiculars and gondolas. The Gornergrat Railway is one of the most famous ways to ascend up, up, and away into the Pennine Alps.
Finally, one huge thing we really want to flag is how far in advance Zermatt books up. This is a small village with huge demand, especially during ski season and the peak summer months. For winter trips, we recommend booking accommodation 6 to 12 months ahead if you can, while 3 to 6 months is generally enough for the summer time. And bear in mind that Matterhorn view rooms and mountain hotels are usually the first to get snapped up!
- Zermatt Village – Best for first-time visitors -This is the best area to stay for first-time visitors, as you’ve got pretty much everything you need within walking distance. Hotel Garni Testa Grigia is a well-located option that makes getting around the village and up the mountain super easy.
- Matterhorn Express Area – Best for quick lift access -This area is ideal if quick lift access is your top priority, especially for early ski starts or busy mountain days. We think that Hotel Plateau Rosa is a great pick here, as it offers a comfortable stay close to the Matterhorn Express gondola.
- Zermatt Mountain Hotels – Best for epic Matterhorn views – These are the best choice if you’re after a more secluded alpine experience and epic Matterhorn views. Hotel Schwarzsee is a memorable property that puts you right in the mountains with unbeatable scenery.
Important Tip
Multiple trips to Zermatt have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Zermatt accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Zermatt
Zermatt Village
BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS
Pros
- Super central location
- Easy access to multiple lifts and mountain railways
Cons
- Can feel busy, especially in peak ski season
- Generally more expensive than staying further out or up the mountain
Zermatt Village is the best place to stay if it’s your first time in Zermatt and you want everything right on your doorstep. This is the heart of the village, and it’s where you’ll find most of the restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels. Better still, it’s all set against a backdrop of classic alpine scenery, so it’s beautiful as well as convenient!
Staying here makes the whole experience feel very easy, especially if you’re only in Zermatt for a few days. From the village, you’ve got straightforward access to several lift systems and mountain railways, including the Gornergrat Railway and connections to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It’s also where you’ll find key attractions like the Matterhorn Museum, as well as plenty of rental shops, supermarkets, and cosy après-ski spots. Everything is walkable, which is a huge plus in a car-free destination like this.
Zermatt Village suits travellers who want convenience and flexibility. We also love the vibrant atmosphere here, although it might not be for you if you’re seeking a more secluded mountain stay.
While it’s usually one of the pricier areas to stay, we do find that the village’s central location makes it worth it. This is especially true if you want to make the most of your time in Zermatt without constantly hopping on taxis or trains!
Alpen Resort & Spa – $$$
Alpen Resort & Spa is a fantastic pick if you want a more luxurious stay while still being within easy reach of Zermatt Village. It sits just slightly outside the very center, which means it feels calmer and more resort-like, while still being within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and transport links.
This is the kind of place you’ll appreciate after a big day out in the mountains! The spa facilities are nothing short of amazing, and you’re sure to sleep well in the spacious, comfortable rooms. Overall, the vibe strikes a nice balance between alpine charm and modern comfort.
We think this hotel works especially well for couples or travellers who want their accommodation to feel like part of the experience, rather than just a place to sleep. Rooms generally start from around €330 to €430 per night in peak season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
If Alpen Resort & Spa is booked out, Matterhorn Lodge Boutique Hotel & Apartments is a stylish alternative with a more intimate, boutique feel. Or, National Zermatt is another great option in the village, offering classic Alpine style and a central location.
Hotel Garni Testa Grigia – $$
Hotel Garni Testa Grigia is one of our favorite picks in Zermatt Village. The location is hard to beat, because you’re right in the center of town. This hotel is fairly simple, but it’s cozy and very well priced for Zermatt. It’s the kind of place that feels easy and no-fuss, which is exactly what you want after long days out in the mountains.
The rooms are comfortable, and the service is friendly, so if you’re looking for a reliable base while you’re out exploring the mountains, you can’t go wrong here. Prices typically sit between €210 and €285 per night during peak season.
Check current rates and availability here!
If Hotel Garni Testa Grigia is fully booked, Zermatt Budget Rooms are a good option if you’re keeping an eye on your costs. Alternatively, Hotel Elite boasts a central location and slightly more traditional Alpine styling.
Hotel Alphubel – $
Hotel Alphubel is a great budget-friendly choice if you want to stay in Zermatt Village without paying premium prices. It’s a no-frills hotel, but it’s clean, comfortable, and very well located, which is exactly what you want if you’ll be spending most of your days exploring the mountains anyway!
The rooms are simple but cozy, and the overall atmosphere feels warm and welcoming. For travellers who care more about location and value than fancy extras, this hotel really delivers, and we like its alpine vibe. Prices usually start from around €170 per night, depending on the season.
See availability and book your stay here!
If Hotel Alphubel is sold out, Petit Helvetia Budget Hotel is another affordable option that’s worth checking out.
Matterhorn Express Area
BEST FOR QUICK LIFT ACCESS
Pros
- Fast, direct access to the Matterhorn Express gondola
- Great base for early ski starts and full mountain days
Cons
- Quieter in the evenings with fewer dining options
- Not as central or atmospheric as Zermatt Village
The Matterhorn Express area is the best place to stay in Zermatt if your top priority is quick lift access! This part of town sits close to the Matterhorn Express gondola, which connects you straight to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. This is great news for snow bunnies and hikers, as staying here can save you a lot of time and effort – especially in the mornings.
This area feels quieter and more residential than Zermatt Village, which some people prefer after a long day on the mountain. It all depends on the kind of atmosphere you’re after! So if you’re less interested in browsing shops and bar hopping, and more into the idea of getting up early and heading straight to the lifts, then winding down in the evenings, we think you’ll love this area.
And it’s not as if there’s nothing here at all. There are a handful of restaurants and hotels nearby, and you can still walk or hop into an electric taxi to the village center if you fancy checking out the après-ski scene.
All in all, we think that the Matterhorn Express area suits travellers who want to maximize their time in the mountains. It’s also great for those seeking a quieter base in Zermatt!
Matthiol Boutique Hotel – $$$
Matthiol Boutique Hotel is a beautiful choice if you want a quiet and refined stay with quick access to the Matterhorn Express lifts. It’s set slightly above the village, which gives it a peaceful, tucked-away feel, but it’s still very practical for mountain days.
The hotel has a cozy but polished alpine vibe, and it’s the perfect place to slow down and relax after a big day on the slopes or trails. We think it’s a particularly excellent choice for couples looking for something more intimate and special. Rooms generally start from around €380 per night during peak season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
If Matthiol Boutique Hotel is booked up, 22 Summits Boutique Hotel is another excellent option nearby, offering a glossy, boutique feel and easy lift access.
Hotel Plateau Rosa – $$
Hotel Plateau Rosa is a great mid-range option if being close to the Matterhorn Express gondola is your main priority. Staying here makes early starts incredibly easy, which is ideal if you’re skiing or hiking most days and want to maximize your time on the mountain.
The hotel itself feels like a cozy, alpine lodge. It’s not flashy, but it still feels very inviting, and there’s a nice garden with Matterhorn views. We like the on-site bar, too, as it’s an intimate spot for a quiet drink at the end of the day. Prices typically start from around €210 per night.
This place books up fast, so don’t hesitate to snag your stay!
If Hotel Plateau Rosa is sold out, Antares Hotel is another reliable option located close to the lifts. We also like Hotel Hemizeus & Iremia Spa, as it’s super cozy with lovely views.
Zermatt Mountain Hotels
BEST FOR EPIC MATTERHORN VIEWS
Pros
- Incredible Matterhorn views
- Peaceful and immersive alpine experience away from the village
Cons
- Less flexibility for dining and nightlife
- Access depends on mountain railways and weather conditions
If waking up to the Matterhorn is high on your bucket list, Zermatt’s mountain hotels are the place to stay! These hotels sit above the village, often along scenic railways or near mountain stations, and they offer a much more secluded experience. Staying up here feels super special, and the mountains are the main event rather than just a backdrop.
Most of the mountain hotels are accessed via funiculars, gondolas, or the Gornergrat Railway. This is actually part of the experience in itself, and you’ll enjoy amazing views on the way up.
Once you settle into your hotel, you’ll be close to high-altitude hiking trails, ski runs, and viewpoints, so this is truly a fantastic option for avid hikers and photographers. To be honest, it’s great for anyone who wants to spend as much time as possible surrounded by nature! Oh, and the sunset and sunrise views from up here are on a whole other level!
The only downside is that staying up in the mountains does require a bit more planning. Dining options are limited, and you’ll need to work around lift and train schedules. However, if you’re looking for a place to slow down and get away from it all, the mountain hotels can offer a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Riffelhaus 1853 – $$$
Riffelhaus 1853 is a truly unforgettable place to stay. It’s a historic mountain hotel that sits high above the village along the Gornergrat Railway, delivering jaw-dropping Matterhorn views that feel absolutely unreal, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Staying here is very much about the experience. You’ll be surrounded by alpine scenery, hiking trails, and ski runs. And once the day-trippers head back down the mountain, the area becomes wonderfully quiet!
The hotel itself strikes a great balance between old-world alpine charm and modern comfort, with sleek interiors and great service. We think this is an incredible choice for couples, photographers, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. Rooms typically start from around €520 per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
If Riffelhaus 1853 is booked out, 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat offers an even higher-altitude stay with panoramic views in every direction. Silvana Mountain Hotel is another lovely alternative, with a more intimate feel and beautiful surroundings near the Furi area.
Hotel Schwarzsee – $$
Hotel Schwarzsee is a fantastic option if you want to stay high in the mountains without stretching to full luxury prices. Located right by Schwarzsee Lake, this hotel offers front-row Matterhorn views and a remote atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy village below.
This is a great pick for hikers and nature lovers, or pretty much anyone who wants to wake up surrounded by alpine scenery! Staying here means your days revolve around cable cars, walking trails, and mountain air, rather than shopping or nightlife. The hotel itself is simple but welcoming, and the location really does all the heavy lifting.
Prices usually start from around €285 per night, including breakfast and dinner.
Take a look at availability and current rates here!
Related Read: Heading to Zermatt in the colder months? Our 2-day Zermatt winter itinerary walks you through the best experiences, scenic routes, and must-see spots to help you make the most of your winter trip.
Top Activities to do in Zermatt
Now that you’ve chosen where to stay in Zermatt, it’s time to start planning your adventure! Whether you’re here for snowy mountain views, adrenaline-filled experiences, or getting to know the village itself, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do. Here are some of our top picks!
- Visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – This guided experience is one of the best ways to experience Zermatt in winter. With cable cars, the Glacier Palace, and panoramic viewpoints all included, you can simply enjoy the ride and soak up the incredible alpine scenery.
- Go tandem paragliding over Zermatt – For a serious adrenaline rush, nothing beats this paragliding adventure above the Matterhorn. With professional pilots and no experience required, you’ll glide high above the village and the Alps for unforgettable views.
- Ride the Gornergrat Railway – This iconic cogwheel train journey offers some of the best Matterhorn views in Switzerland. At the summit, you’ll find sweeping panoramas, restaurants, and plenty of photo opportunities.
- Book a private ski lesson – Whether you’re brand new to skiing or want to sharpen your skills, this private lesson in the Sunnegga area is perfect for building confidence and improving your technique at your own pace. You’ll get personalized instruction paired with beautiful mountain views.
- Take a guided walking tour of Zermatt – xplore the village beyond the slopes on this small-group walking tour, which covers historic streets, local stories, and classic Matterhorn viewpoints. It’s an easygoing way to get oriented while learning what makes Zermatt more than just a ski town.
Related Read: Want even more inspiration? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Zermatt here for our top recommendations!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”
What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
💡 Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:
Thanks for reading!
Choosing where to stay in Zermatt really comes down to how you want to experience the mountains. Whether you prefer being right in the heart of the village, steps from the Matterhorn Express lifts, or waking up high above town with Matterhorn views outside your window, each area offers a very different stay. Just remember that availability in Zermatt can be limited, especially in peak seasons, so early booking is highly recommended.
If Zermatt is just one stop on your Swiss adventure, our other Switzerland travel blogs are packed with ideas, itineraries, and hotel suggestions to keep the planning going. Scroll down for a few of our favorite Zermatt guides to help you make the most of your time in the Alps.
Where to Stay in Lucerne, Switzerland: 4 Best Areas and Hotels
How to Spend TWO DAYS in Geneva, Switzerland: The Best 2-Day Itinerary