The Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Zermatt

Planning a Zermatt Christmas this year? You’re in luck!

Switzerland is a country that needs no introduction and a place that promises to make your Christmas extra special. This winter destination is known for its snow-covered mountains, picturesque villages, and rich cultural heritage – all ready and waiting to be explored.

But it’s not just the landscapes that make Switzerland such a coveted destination for Christmas holidays; Zermatt, a charming mountain village in the Swiss Alps, guarantees an unforgettable experience to everyone who visits.

When it comes to what to do in Zermatt, you’re spoiled for choice. Christmas markets are always popular, and there is no shortage of them in Switzerland! Every year, locals flock to the Christmas market located at the foot of Matterhorn Mountain, where they can shop for festive decorations, artisanal gifts, and handmade ornaments.

If you’re in town for Christmas dinner, Zermatt has plenty of restaurants that serve up traditional Swiss cuisine with a festive twist. Many places offer fondue with special seasonal ingredients and local dishes like raclette, polenta, and rösti.

In this post, we’ll share some tips on what to wear, where to stay, and how to make the most out of your time in Zermatt – making it an unforgettable Zermatt Christmas getaway.

FAQ

What to wear in Zermatt

Since Zermatt is a ski resort town, layered clothing is essential for keeping warm. Opt for pieces that are lightweight and breathable – like merino wool, cashmere, or fleece.

A pair of snow boots with insulation are a must for walking around town, especially if you plan to go up the mountain slopes! Gloves are also essential, as well as a scarf, beanie, and warm jacket.

And don’t forget your ski goggles if you plan to hit the ski slopes!

If you forget any clothing items, you can always purchase warm winter clothing and accessories from the local stores. However, Switzerland is known for being pretty pricey, so keep that in mind.

How to get to Zermatt

The best way to get to Zermatt is by train from Zurich.

First, you’ll want to fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH). You can easily find flights from all over the world into Zurich. Swiss, British Airways, American Airlines, and United are the most common airlines that travel here.

Pro tip: Use WayAway to find the best fares from your home city! You can typically find good deals on flights to Zurich if you book at least a month in advance.

Once you land at Zurich airport, you can take a direct train to Zermatt. The journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. The Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn runs a direct service from Zurich airport to Zermatt, which takes you there easily. It’s a fairly hassle-free ride and the trains here are super easy to navigate.

You can also catch a train to Zermatt from Zurich Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Zurich city center.

Related read: The Ultimate 5-day Switzerland Itinerary

I like to book my tickets in advance with Omio, that way I can guarantee to have a seat and get the best price. You can also book tickets once you get to the station, but prices and availability will vary.

If you’re coming from within Europe, you can also take the bus or drive to Zermatt. However, keep in mind that there are no roads leading into Zermatt. Zermatt is a car-free city, which makes private transportation a little more difficult. You’ll have to park your car in Täsch (about 5km away from Zermatt) and take a train or taxi the rest of the way.

Find trains to Zermatt

Getting around in Zermatt

Once you arrive in Zermatt and are ready to start exploring, there are a few transportation options available to you.

The most popular way to get around Zermatt is on foot. With the car-free policy, the streets are pedestrian-only, making it very safe and easy to walk around. And since Zermatt is such a small town, it’s very doable to explore on foot. If you’re planning on doing some hiking while you’re here, most of the trails will start right from the center of town.

There is also a local bus system that can take you to different parts of Zermatt and even outside of town. The buses run frequently and are very reliable. You can buy a day pass for about 10 CHF, which allows you unlimited rides on the bus.

Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try out the electric cars. These are available for rent by the hour or day and are a fun way to get around town. Just be careful not to run out of battery!

Things to do in Zermatt

Regarding things to do in Zermatt, there’s no shortage of activities. Zermatt is a picturesque village with everything from hikes to cable cars to world-renowned restaurants. Though it’s a small town, there’s no shortage of things to do here.

Here are some of the best things to do in Zermatt:

Ride a cable car up the Matterhorn

Everybody knows the famous Matterhorn mountain, and the best way to see it up close is by taking a ride on the Matterhorn Gornergrat cable car. This cable car offers stunning views of the famous mountain as well as other nearby peaks like Monte Rosa and Dom. This is a must-do Zermatt Christmas trip activity!

Go paragliding in the Swiss Alps

What better way to see the Swiss Alps than from up in the air? Zermatt is the perfect place to try out paragliding! There are numerous companies that offer tandem flights, so you can go with an experienced guide. And what’s more, you’ll get stunning views of the Matterhorn while you’re up there!

Ride the Gornergrat Bahn

If you’re not feeling so adventurous, you can still get great views of the Matterhorn by riding a cable car up to the top. The Gornergrat Bahn is a scenic train that takes you up to the Gornergrat Observatory. From here, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the Alps, including the Matterhorn.

Hike up to Schwarzsee Lake

This short but sweet hike will take you through some beautiful forests before arriving at the stunning Schwarzsee Lake. Here, you can take in the views of the Matterhorn and other nearby peaks. The hike is doable for all levels, so even if you’re not an experienced hiker, you’ll be able to enjoy this one.

Shop at the Matterhorn Museum

This museum is dedicated to the history of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world. Learn about the first ascent of the mountain, see old equipment used by climbers, and more. A walk through this museum is a great way to learn about the mountain before you tackle it yourself!

Related read: 20 Things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland

Dine at Hotel Schweizerhof Zermatt

This hotel is home to one of the best restaurants in Zermatt, Michelin-starred Cervo. Here, you’ll find inventive dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has an extensive wine list and a beautiful setting, making it the perfect place for a special night out.

Visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

This is the highest cable car station in Europe and gives you access to some of the most incredible views of the Alps. You can even walk out onto a glass skywalk for an even more breathtaking experience. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some mountain goats!

Visit the Zermatt Funicular Railways

The Zermatt Funicular Railways are a must-visit for any train lover. These railways are some of the oldest and most historic in the world, dating back to 1891. You can ride on one of the three funiculars or take a trip on the Gornergrat Bahn, which is the highest open-air railway in Europe.

Snowboarding and skiing in Zermatt

Time to hit the slopes! Zermatt is a world-renowned ski destination, so whether you’re a beginner or an expert skier, there’s something for you here. There are over 100 miles of slopes to explore, so be sure to check out the various ski resorts in the area, including Rothorn Paradise and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

What to eat and drink in Zermatt

My favorite part of any trip: the food! When it comes to eating and drinking in Zermatt, there are plenty of options.

Some local specialties include raclette, a Swiss dish made of melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, gherkins, or other vegetables; rosti, a shredded potato pancake topped with bacon and onion; and Zermatter ham, a flavorful salted ham that is a local favorite.

As for drinks, you can’t go wrong with Swiss wine and beer. Be sure to try some of the delicious local wines such as riesling or pinot noir, or sample some locally brewed beers like Zermatt Gold or Matterhorn Bock.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in Zermatt! Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or just enjoy some delicious food and drinks, this scenic mountain town is the perfect place to visit.

Best Restaurants in Zermatt

Findlerhof

For lunch with a view, head to Findlerhof. This converted farmhouse serves traditional Swiss cuisine in an idyllic mountain setting, with stunning views of the Matterhorn. The menu includes dishes like raclette and fondue, as well as more contemporary options such as fish and grilled vegetables. The restaurant also has a wine list with local offerings from Valais region wineries.

Brown Cow pub

For a cozy pub atmosphere and some classic pub grub, head to Brown Cow. This charming pub has a great selection of beers from local breweries as well as a menu featuring burgers, wings, and other comfort food favorites. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it the perfect spot for an evening out with friends.

Sonnmatten

This modern Alpine-style restaurant offers a touch of sophistication with its cozy atmosphere and inventive menu. The dishes at Sonnmatten are inspired by traditional Swiss cuisine, but with an international twist. You can find everything from Italian-style pizzas to Japanese-style sashimi. Be sure to try the signature dish, the Sonmatten Burger, which is made with local Valais beef.

Where to stay in Zermatt

In this postcard-perfect town, you can stay in either a hotel or a mountain lodge. Most hotels offer stunning views of the Matterhorn as well as luxurious amenities and top-notch service.

For traditional lodging with an authentic Swiss experience, opt for a cozy mountain chalet or a vacation home on VRBO – perfect for families looking to spend quality time together.

As for budget travelers, there are plenty of hostels near Zermatt to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a hotel fit for royalty or an affordable stay in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt has something for everyone this Christmas!

Best hotels in Zermatt

Hotel Matterhornblick

Located in the center of Zermatt just 1,700 feet from the ski lifts, Hotel Matterhornblick offers stunning views of the iconic Matterhorn mountain. Rooms are spacious and modern, with amenities like satellite TV, a minibar, and Wi-Fi. This hotel also features an on-site restaurant serving local Swiss dishes as well as international favorites. Hotel Matterhornblick also offers a sauna and two relaxation rooms.

Hotel Schwarzsee

Hotel Schwarzsee is nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 8,475 feet and offers unbeatable views of the Matterhorn. The hotel features a spa area with an indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, and massage services. Rooms are modern and comfortable, while dining options include an on-site restaurant with both traditional and international dishes. A buffet breakfast is included every morning in the price of your stay.

Legendär Zermatt

For a luxury Zermatt experience, check out Legendär Zermatt. This boutique aparthotel offers apartment units with a sofa, seating area, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a full kitchen. The rooms are elegantly decorated, while the indoor swimming pool and spa area offer the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.