Is Zermatt worth visiting? If you’re planning your holidays in Switzerland, you might be wondering if you should go to Zermatt.
It’s normal – it’s the question on many people’s minds, and for good reason (Switzerland is expensive, is it not?!).
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However, Zermatt can be quite expensive, and it is often crowded with tourists.
That said, Zermatt is not that easy to get to – the nearest airport is two hours away, and there are no direct trains from major Swiss cities.
So, if you’re wondering whether or not Zermatt is worth visiting, our guide should help you make a decision.
Here is why Zermatt should be (or shouldn’t be) on your Switzerland bucket list.
The Pros Of Visiting Zermatt: Reasons To Visit
Zermatt is located in the Swiss Alps, and it offers some of the most stunning mountain views in all of Switzerland.
If you love nature and being outdoors, Zermatt is definitely worth visiting.
The city is surrounded by mountains, and visitors can explore plenty of hiking trails.
During our trip to Switzerland, Zermatt became our favorite city in the country. Let’s be honest – we had a huge crush on Zermatt!
Mountain Views
Hiking is not the only outdoor activity that you can do in Zermatt.
There are also several ski resorts nearby, so if you’re looking for a winter getaway, Zermatt is a great option.
And even if you don’t ski or snowboard, you can still enjoy the mountain views by taking a cable car ride to the top of one of the nearby peaks.
Alpine Chalets
Zermatt is also home to several alpine chalets, which are traditional Swiss mountain homes.
These chalets are usually made of wood and stone, and they’re often decorated with flowers.
Many of the chalets in Zermatt are available to rent, so if you’re looking for a unique place to stay, this might be the perfect option for you.
Alternatively, you’ll find plenty of hotels and apartments to rent in the area.
Want To Visit Zermatt?
Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels in Zermatt.
Best hostel: Zermatt Youth Hostel
Best mid-range hotel: Studio Omis
Best luxury hotel: Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin
The Matterhorn
One of the main reasons why people visit Zermatt is to see the Matterhorn.
This iconic mountain is one of the most photographed peaks in the world, and it’s definitely worth seeing in person.
If you’re lucky, you might even see the Matterhorn at sunset or sunrise, which is an experience you’ll never forget.
You might recognize the shape of the Toblerone chocolate bar, which was inspired by the Matterhorn.
The Outdoors
As we mentioned before, Zermatt is the perfect place for outdoor lovers.
In addition to hiking and skiing, there are also several other outdoor activities that you can enjoy in Zermatt, including mountain biking, rock climbing, and canoeing.
If you love being outdoors, Zermatt is definitely worth visiting.
The city is surrounded by mountains, and visitors can explore plenty of hiking trails.
The City Is Car-Free
One of the best things about Zermatt is that it’s a car-free city. This means that visitors can explore the city without worrying about traffic or pollution.
Instead, visitors can use electric buses or trains to get around, which is a much more enjoyable experience.
Although, if you’re traveling by car, it might be a bit inconvenient. You’ll find parking next to the train station in Tash that brings you to Zermatt. Learn how to get to Zermatt.
Adrenaline Experiences
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Zermatt is the perfect place for you. There are several activities that will get your heart racing, including paragliding, and canyoning.
These activities are not for everyone, but if you’re looking for an exhilarating experience, Zermatt is definitely the place to be.
You could also book a helicopter tour to get a bird’s eye view of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains.
During our trip to Zermatt, we took a helicopter flight for 20 minutes around the Matterhorn and the views were spectacular.
The Food
If you’re a fan of Swiss food, you’ll love Zermatt. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, and you can find all of your favorite Swiss dishes, including fondue, raclette, and rösti.
If you’re looking for something a little different, Zermatt has several international restaurants, including Italian, French, and Chinese.
The Cons Of Visiting Zermatt: Reasons To Skip It
Now that we’ve covered all the reasons why you should visit Zermatt, let’s take a look at a few reasons why you might want to skip it.
The Cost
Zermatt is not a cheap city, but it’s definitely worth visiting if you can afford it. Hotel prices are relatively high, but there are plenty of Airbnb options available.
It can be a good option if you prefer to cook your own food instead of eating out every day.
You can also find some great deals on activities if you book in advance.
For example, you could find discounts on tours and activities if you book in advance online.
The Weather
The weather in Zermatt can be a bit unpredictable, so if you’re looking for guaranteed sunshine, you might want to visit another city.
The best time to visit Zermatt is in the summer when the weather is usually pretty good.
However, it can be quite cold in the winter, so if you’re not a fan of the cold, you might want to wait until spring or summer to visit.
It’s Not Easy To Get To Zermatt
Zermatt is located in a very remote area, so it can be quite difficult to get to. The closest airport is in Sion, about a 2-hour drive away.
Lausanne, Geneva, and Bern airports are about 3-4 hours away. There are also trains that run from other Swiss cities, but the journey can be pretty long.
If you’re not willing to make an effort to get to Zermatt, you might want to visit another city that’s more easily accessible.
It’s All About The Outdoors
If you’re not a fan of outdoor activities, you might find yourself bored in Zermatt.
There are plenty of things to do in the city, but most revolve around being outdoors.
So, if you’re not into hiking, biking, or other outdoor activities, you might want to visit another city that has more to offer in terms of indoor activities.
The Final Verdict: So Is Zermatt Worth Visiting?
We think Zermatt is definitely worth visiting, especially if you’re a fan of outdoor activities and you don’t mind spending a bit of money.
The city has so much to offer regarding scenery, culture, food, and adrenaline-pumping experiences.
However, if you’re not into outdoor activities and you’re looking for a city that’s more affordable and easier to get to, you might want to check out another destination.
During my latest trip to Switzerland, Zermatt has become my favorite city in Switzerland.
I would love to revisit Zermatt! There are so many nice hikes and peaks to explore!
Visiting Switzerland soon? Make sure to read one of the following guides:
