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Planning a trip to Zermatt in winter? You’ve come to the right place!
Zermatt is a charming, car-free mountain village tucked beneath the iconic Matterhorn. It’s best known for skiing, but there’s so much more to do here than just hitting the slopes. That’s why we’ve put together this 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of the village’s highlights and some seriously unique winter activities.
From breathtaking viewpoints to exploring a literal ice palace, we’ve planned the perfect few days in Zermatt for when you’re not hitting the slopes. And we’ve included all the info you need along the way, including timings, transport tips, and the best local food stops to make your snowy adventure seamless. Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tour! Riding gondolas over snowy slopes, exploring the icy Glacier Palace, and soaking in those unbelievable Matterhorn views made it an unforgettable winter experience!
Itinerary Overview
One of our favorite things about Zermatt is the fact that it’s car-free! But of course, that means you can’t drive here, so the easiest way to arrive is by taking the train. Then once you’re in town, you can cover most attractions on foot, and the train is there for when you need to go a little further.
The main thing to do in Zermatt is skiing, but as you’ll realize, this itinerary focuses on non-skiing activities. You can still use it if you’re planning to hit the slopes but want a few days to pause in between and explore the other activities, as it would be a shame not to check out what else the town has on offer while you’re here.
Day 1: Begin your day with sunrise at the Matterhorn Viewpoint, then enjoy a hearty brunch at Bäckerei Fuchs. Spend the afternoon riding the cableway to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and finish the day soaking up the lively après-ski atmosphere.
Day 2: Choose between a thrilling paragliding flight over the Matterhorn or a relaxed walking tour of Zermatt Village. In the afternoon, take the train to Mount Gornergrat for panoramic alpine views, then return to town for dinner and an evening stroll through the snowy streets.
Day 1
Morning – See the sunrise at the Matterhorn Viewpoint
For the best start to your day in Zermatt, head to the Matterhorn Viewpoint at sunrise. It’s an easy uphill walk from town, as it takes just 15-20 minutes. And we’re big fans of the effort-to-reward ratio, because the views over Zermatt are absolutely stunning, especially since you’ve got the Matterhorn towering in the background. It all looks especially beautiful at sunrise—look out for the moment when the golden light first hits the mountain, because it’s really special!
Another reason to come at sunrise is that it’s so much quieter than it is at sunset. Plus, the sun actually rises pretty late in Zermatt in winter, so you won’t be waking up insanely early. Depending on the time of year, aim to get here between 7 and 8 am—I really don’t think that’s too bad for a sunrise hike!
The trail is well-maintained during the winter, so you won’t need microspikes or anything for this walk. A pair of good old-fashioned hiking shoes will do!
Brunch – Bäckerei Fuchs
After heading down from the viewpoint, go and warm yourself up with a hearty breakfast at Bäckerei Fuchs. It’s right in the heart of town, so it should take around 20 minutes to get here on foot, and it opens at 7 am, so they’ll be ready to welcome you after your walk.
We highly recommend trying the Bergführerbrot, which is their signature bread. In English, it’s known as “mountain bread” and is made with fresh apples and figs. It’s so yummy, and it tastes more like a cake than bread if truth be told.
Once you’ve finished your breakfast, it should be around 10 am, so take some time to stroll through the town after brunch. Your afternoon tour departs at 12:30 pm, so you’ve got plenty of time to check out the Old Village. The architecture here is super charming and dates back to the 15th century! And make sure to head to the Bahnhofstrasse, the main street, for people watching and window shopping.
Afternoon – Take the cableway to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Zermatt is absolutely stunning in winter, and we think that this Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tour is the best way to experience its magic! The great thing about this tour is the fact that it takes care of everything, including the cable cars, the Glacier Palace, and even a stop at the Cinema Lounge, so you can just focus on enjoying the mountains.
The tour departs at 12:30 pm from a meeting point in Zermatt, less than a 5-minute walk from Bäckerei Fuchs. It lasts for about 4 hours, so you’ll finish up at about 4:30 pm.
The ride up to the Glacier Paradise is really exciting, as the journey up involves a series of scenic gondola rides. Each section takes you higher over the snowy slopes, and the village slowly disappears below. As we went up, our guide pointed out famous peaks and shared lots of interesting stories about the Matterhorn and the cableway.
Then, when we got to the top, the Glacier Palace was something else entirely. It feels like Elsa’s ice palace from Frozen! It’s a maze of ice tunnels featuring lots of ice sculptures, and even a slide! Then, when we got to the observation deck, the views of the Matterhorn in front of us and the Alps stretching in every direction were just breathtaking.
This tour is such a unique thing to do in Zermatt, so you really can’t miss it. The Glacier Paradise is a true winter wonderland if ever we’ve seen one, and the views of the wintery landscape are just gorgeous—no surprise it’s earned so many five-star reviews!
Book this tour here and get ready to experience the magic of the Glacier Palace!
Evening – Join the après-ski crowd at Harry’s Ski Bar
As we mentioned earlier, Zermatt is primarily a ski town. Harry’s Ski Bar is one of the most popular après ski spots, so head here after your tour ends to enjoy the lively, party atmosphere. This place is busy, but in a good way, and you don’t have to have spent all day on the slopes to enjoy it—everyone is welcome!
If you like, you can do what we did and head back to your hotel before heading to Harry’s. We went and freshened up, then headed there at about 5:30–6 pm, when the après crowds were just starting to roll in. Just keep in mind that Harry’s is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Dinner – Restaurant Schäferstube
Once you’ve had your fill of the après atmosphere at Harry’s, move on to Restaurant Schäferstube to soak up the beer with some of the best Swiss food in town! The raclette here is soooo delicious, so I definitely recommend ordering that if you’re a fan of all things cheesy. And it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time—we booked a table for around 8 pm so that we had a few hours to enjoy Harry’s before ending the day with some hearty comfort food.
Day 2
Breakfast – Petit Royal
We’re going for a sweet breakfast this morning at Petit Royal! This spot serves amazing pastries and breads, although the focaccia is also super yummy if you’d prefer something on the savory side. There’s great coffee and hot chocolate here, too, so you can always swing by again later for a hot drink to warm up with!
Petit Royal is right in the heart of Zermatt, and it opens at 8 am. You should have plenty of time for breakfast here before your morning activity, although if you choose paragliding, we actually recommend holding off and coming here afterwards—you don’t really want to fly with a full tummy.
Morning Option 1: Go paragliding around the Matterhorn
Our first option for this morning is this tandem paragliding flight. This is the ultimate winter adventure in Zermatt because not only does it deliver a serious adrenaline rush, but you also get insane panoramic views of the Matterhorns and the surrounding Pennine Alps.
You’ll meet your guide at the bottom of the Sunnegga funicular station, and they’ll help you buy the right ticket, or you can book yours in advance here for extra ease. This should cost around 17 CHF (roughly €18).
Then, you’ll ride the funicular up to the takeoff point, and the whole experience takes about 1.5–2 hours from start to finish. We recommend choosing the tour that starts around 8–8:30 am so you’ll wrap up around 9:30–10:30, ready to enjoy breakfast afterward.
It’s only natural to be nervous, but don’t worry, because the professional pilots will guide you through safety instructions and explain the procedure before takeoff. Then, once you’re airborne, you’ll glide for between 20-25 minutes, which is actually a pretty long paragliding flight. And the views of Zermatt and the surrounding Alps are absolutely spectacular.
One of the best things about this flight is that it can be tailored to your comfort level. Your pilot will ask you whether you prefer a calm, scenic glide or a slightly more dynamic descent, and operate accordingly. Oh, and keep an eye out for wildlife below because deer and other alpine creatures are sometimes visible!
All in all, nothing compares to seeing Zermatt from the sky. It’s the kind of experience that sticks with you long after you land, and it’s easy to see why travelers love it. Check out over a HUNDRED five-star reviews here!
Book this epic paragliding flight here before it sells out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Morning Option 2: Learn about Zermatt Village on a walking tour
If paragliding is a bit too adventurous for you, this walking tour is an excellent alternative! It begins at 10:30 am in central Zermatt and lasts for 2 hours. It’s an awesome way to get to know the town beyond the ski slopes and get a feel for its history.
We like this tour because it’s a personal, small-group experience that takes you through the streets of old town, past historic buildings, and to a viewpoint with one of the most iconic backdrops in the Alps. Yes, of course I’m talking about the Matterhorn!
The tour starts at Bahnhofplatz, right by the train station, which is the only way to reach Zermatt. From there, you stroll down Bahnhofstrasse, Zermatt’s main shopping street, before veering off the beaten path to quieter alleys. You’ll pass the Gourmetweg, which doubles as an ice rink in winter, and Hinterdorfstrasse, which is home to centuries-old buildings and flat-stone rooftops.
There’s also a stop at the Monte Rosa Hotel to learn about the first ascent of the Matterhorn, as well as a visit to the Mountaineers’ Cemetery to reflect on the climbers who lost their lives attempting to climb Zermatt’s surrounding peaks. Finally, the tour wraps up at the Kirchbrücke bridge viewpoint, which is the classic spot for Matterhorn photos—I’m willing to bet you’ve seen some photos that have been snapped there on Instagram before!
It’s also an easy walk, so it’s suitable for most fitness levels. It’s a more relaxed alternative to paragliding and a great way to tick off Zermatt’s charming highlights.
Book your spot on this small group walking tour here!
Afternoon – Take the train to Mount Gornergrat
One of the best ways to soak in the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks is by taking the Gornergrat Railway. This open-air cogwheel train winds its way up the mountain, offering some of the most iconic views in Zermatt. Plan to head up around 1 pm, and allow yourself about three hours to fully enjoy the experience.
The train station is right across from Zermatt’s main station, making it super easy to access. Tickets cost 96 CHF (€100) round-trip and can be purchased online in advance or on the day, with no fixed departure time. Keep in mind that if you go early, some restaurants or attractions at the top might not be open yet, and the train can get crowded with skiers.
At the summit, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of 29 peaks, all of which stand at over 4,000 meters (13,100 feet)! There’s also a multimedia experience called “ZOOOM the Matterhorn” to learn more about the area. Stop for lunch at Saycheez!, which is a popular Swiss chain serving cheesy dishes and is open from the end of November through winter. If you’ve had enough of cheese for the moment, there are several other restaurants up here as well as a hotel, a bar, and some shops—it’s like its own little world!
Dinner – Madre Nostra
It’s been a pretty busy day out, so head back to your hotel for a bit of a rest and take some time to get ready for the evening before heading to Madre Nostra. This place is on the fancy side, so you’ll probably want to freshen up!
I’ll be honest with you, this place is a bit expensive. However, dining here is a whole experience, and it’s some of the best Italian food we’ve ever had! The restaurant is located inside the CERVO Hotel, and you’ll definitely need a reservation here. If you’re booking before the end of November, Google Maps might say it’s temporarily closed, but you’ll still be able to book a table on their website here.
We loved dining here, partly due to the amazing food and partly because the restaurant offers views of the Matterhorn! The truffle carbonara is a standout for me, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. Just make sure you leave some room for dessert because you’ll want to try their tiramisu!
Since Madre Nostra is pretty pricey and books up fast, we’ve got another great Italian restaurant as a backup tonight. Grampi’s Bar & Restaurant is another top-rated spot in town with a bit more of a rustic trattoria vibe. The pizzas here are incredible, and I loved the panna cotta for dessert.
Evening – Take an evening stroll through Zermatt
Whichever restaurant you end up at, we predict you’ll feel pretty full after tonight’s Italian feast, so end the night with a stroll through Zermatt to let the meal settle. The town looks especially charming on wintery nights, when the street lights make the snow sparkle! And if you fancy a nightcap, stop in Chämi Bar Fire Place for a warming drink. It’s so cozy and welcoming that we ended up staying here for quite a while—cheers!
Related Read: If you have extra time, our list of the best activities in Zermatt has even more winter fun to take in!
Where to Stay in Zermatt, Switzerland
So now that you’ve got the perfect few days in Zermatt planned, you just need a warm and cozy place to stay. Luckily, there are plenty of those here! We suggest staying in the village area because it’s super central and will make it very easy to follow this itinerary.
Just keep in mind that accommodations book up quickly in winter, so if you see availability for your travel dates, it’s best to reserve right away. And with that in mind, we’ve outlined our top picks for every budget below:
Mont Cervin Palace – $$$
Mont Cervin Palace is one of Zermatt’s most iconic luxury hotels. It has been welcoming guests since 1851, and it blends timeless elegance with all the modern comforts you could ask for.
Most rooms face south and come with balconies or patios offering incredible Matterhorn views. Some suites even have private hot tubs or open fireplaces, which are just perfect for cozy winter evenings! Best of all, the hotel’s huge spa and wellness area is truly world-class, featuring a large pool, saunas, and a full menu of beauty treatments.
Rooms typically start around €800 per night, and they tend to book up fast, so secure your stay here!
Alpen Resort & Spa – $$
Alpen Resort & Spa is a fantastic choice for travelers looking to stay close to the ski lifts in Zermatt. We love this hotel because it combines modern comfort with easy access to the slopes. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, and the hotel also boasts excellent dining options. The Matterhorn Restaurant serves traditional Swiss cuisine paired with a great selection of wines, and the Grill restaurant Hornox offers both meat and vegan dishes.
Other perks include free WiFi throughout the property, free transport from Zermatt Train Station, ski storage with boot dryers, and even an outdoor tennis court. The spa and wellness facilities also make it ideal for relaxing sore muscles after skiing.
Rooms here start at around €300 during winter. Check Booking.com for the best prices!
Youth Hostel Zermatt – $
Youth Hostel Zermatt is one of the few good budget options in a town known for luxury hotels. We love it because it’s practical, comfortable, and ideally located just a 10-minute walk from both the ski lifts and Zermatt city centre. It even offers views of the iconic Matterhorn from some rooms!
The hostel offers dormitory beds, private rooms with shared or en-suite bathrooms, and even barrier-free options, making it perfect for solo travelers, friends, or couples. It’s an ideal base for exploring the village without spending a fortune on accommodation.
Dorm beds start at around €60 during ski seasons, and double rooms with private bathrooms cost around €200. Find out more and reserve your stay here!
Want more great options? Check out all the hotels in Zermatt listed here!
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!
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Thanks for reading!
Zermatt is pure winter magic, and we hope this two-day itinerary helps you experience everything that makes this alpine village so unforgettable. From sunrise viewpoints and ice palaces to cozy cafés and breathtaking Matterhorn panoramas, this guide brings together our favorite ways to enjoy Zermatt beyond the ski slopes. Every time we visit, we discover something new to love, and we hope you do, too.
Before you go, make sure to browse our other Switzerland guides packed with firsthand tips and must-do experiences. Or dive into some of our most popular winter blogs below for even more travel inspiration—happy exploring!
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