Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a fairy-tale village known for its stunning views of the Matterhorn. From Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise to serene lakes, scenic hikes, museums, and historic sites, there are endless things to do in Zermatt for travellers seeking unforgettable alpine experiences.

The Matterhorn in Switzerland is one of the most dramatic mountains in the world. People from around the globe long to get a glimpse of its sharply pointed peak in person, and there is perhaps no better place to do so than Zermatt. Tucked away in the heart of the Swiss Alps, this charming alpine village feels like a gift you did not know you wanted until you got it and instantly fell in love. Zermatt is the very essence of adjectives such as quintessential, iconic, breathtaking, and fairytale.

Beyond its picture-perfect scenery, Zermatt is also way ahead of its time in terms of sustainable tourism. Decades before sustainability became a global trend, the town banned traditional cars, and even today, it strictly allows only electric vehicles, pedestrians and horse-drawn carriages.

While the views of the iconic Matterhorn are alone worth the trip, there is a range of attractions in Zermatt that will make you want to add this alpine gem straight to your Switzerland tour package.

What Are the Top 10 Attractions in Zermatt? 

From sky-touching mountains and mesmerising lakes to cascading waterfalls, scenic cable rides, and museums that take you back in time, Zermatt is filled with attractions you will want to add directly to your Zermatt tour package itinerary.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Zermatt for an unforgettable experience:

• The Matterhorn
• Riffelsee Lake
• Gornergrat
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Gorner Gorge
• Matterhorn Museum
• Hinterdorfstrasse
• 5 Lakes Walk
• Mountaineer's Cemetery
• Findeln

The Matterhorn

If you are going to Zermatt, the odds are you already are planning to see the Matterhorn. If not, immediately add it to your list of things to see in Zermatt. Among the highest mountains in Europe, the Matterhorn is a sight to behold. It features a pyramid-shaped silhouette, which is the inspiration behind the triangular shape of the famous Swiss Toblerone chocolate. While it is visible from anywhere in Zermatt town, there are also some viewpoints that offer an Instagram-worthy view. Also, visit the Matterhorn viewpoints at night to enjoy both the glowing mountain views and Zermatt’s lively nightlife.

Timings: NA

Entry Fee: NA

Riffelsee Lake

Situated at an altitude of 2,757 metres, Riffelsee is a serene mountain lake nestled just below the Matterhorn. It is one of the most popular things to see in Zermatt, famed for its mirror-like reflection of the Matterhorn, a natural spectacle that feels almost unreal. To reach the lake, you can either go hiking from Rotenboden station or walk downhill from the Gornergrat Station for a more leisurely stroll. Both routes will take you about 30 to 50 minutes and are beginner-friendly.

Timings: Accessible 24/7. Visit early morning for the best views.

Entry Fee: No entry fee, but you will need a ticket for the Gornergrat Bahn to reach the Rotenboden station. 

Gornergrat

Situated at an altitude of 3,089 meters, Gornergrat is one of the most iconic vista points in the country, offering views so mesmerising that you will not forget them for a lifetime. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Matterhorn, along with 28 other 4,000-meter peaks, making it a top attraction in Zermatt. The journey to the summit begins with the Gornergrat Railway, Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel train, which takes you to breathtaking scenery all along the way. Gornergrat is open all year round, and its ticket can be booked through Zermatt's tourism website.

Timings: 7:00 AM - 9:50 PM

Entry Fee: One-Way - Adult: CHF 42 and Child: CHF 21

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is the highest cable car station in Europe at 3883 meters, making it one of the places to visit in Zermatt. From the top, you get 360-degree panoramic views of 38 four‑thousand‑meter peaks and 14 glaciers across Switzerland, Italy and France. Beyond the views, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is also home to a magical ice palace carved into eternal ice and completed with vivid sculptures and sparkling crevasses. You will also find an ice cave, a ski area and even a cosy cinema lounge there.

Timings: Matterhorn Glacier Palace: Monday-Sunday, 09:25-15:45.

Entry fees: For the cable car:

• Adult: CHF 99 per individual.
• Children (3 - 8 years): free.
• Children (9 - 15 years): CHF 50 (If accompanied with a parent/chaperone, the charges are free)
• For Swiss Travel Pass holder: CHF 50

Gorner Gorge

The Gorner Gorge is a dramatic natural gorge located just a 15-minute walk south of Zermatt village. Different rock formations built over the years through the fast-running waters have created this stunning natural spectacle. It features narrow passages, beautiful waterfalls, and breathtaking turquoise waters visible during late afternoon light. There are wooden pathways all along the gorge, helping visitors get as close to nature as possible.

Timings: No specific timing, though the best time to visit is from June to September.

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Matterhorn Museum

The Matterhorn Museum is among the best attractions in Zermatt, dedicated to the history and culture surrounding the iconic Matterhorn mountain. The museum depicts the story of Edward Whymper, along with 8 others, who scaled the Matterhorn and met with a tragic accident that led to the deaths of 4. The rope that gave way and was the reason for their death is also displayed. The museum also features the history of Zermatt and how mountaineering has evolved since the horrifying experience, displaying various tools of mountain climbing that have been used for various purposes over the years.

Timings: July - September, Mid-December - April: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM,

October - Mid-December: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: Adult: CHF 10 and Child: CHF 5

Hinterdorfstrasse

Hinderdorfstrasse is a hidden gem that reflects how life in a Swiss mountain village used to be hundreds of years ago, making it one of the best places to go in Zermatt. It features old houses, barns, and sheds that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, offering a glimpse into the unique craftsmanship and design of that era. The view of the narrow cobbled street and old houses is definitely Instagram-worthy.

Timings: NA

Entry Fee: NA

5 Lakes Walk

The 5 lakes walk is a popular hiking trail in Zermatt, taking you through a scenic route that connects five stunning alpine lakes: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee. Each lake offers something unique to discover along the way, making this hike one of the best outdoor activities in Zermatt. Leisee is perfect for a refreshing swim, while Grünsee offers a more rugged, barren landscape where hardy larch trees cling to rocky terrain. Grindjisee, on the other hand, is known for its rare alpine flowers that bloom along its shores.

Timings: No specific timing, though the best time to visit is from June to September.

Entry Fee: NA

Mountaineer's Cemetery

One of the most meaningful things to do in Zermatt is visiting the Mountaineers’ Cemetery, a memorial dedicated to climbers who lost their lives in the mountains surrounding the village, including the Matterhorn, Täschhorn, Weisshorn, Liskamm, Obergabelhorn, and more. Here, you will find the graves of around 50 men and women climbers who perished in the surrounding mountains. However, there is one exception: a gravestone honouring Peter and Peter Taugwalder, the father-and-son duo who were part of the first ascent of the Matterhorn and died of natural causes.

Timings: No specific timing, though it can be visited all year round.

Entry Fee: NA

Findeln

Findeln is a quiet little hamlet and is among the best places to visit near Zermatt. This is the place where Zermatt families lived and worked during the summer, growing grains and grazing cattle. Today, it draws visitors from around the globe for its superb mountain cuisine like Zum See and Findlerhof, paired with panoramic Matterhorn views.

Timings: All year round.

Entry Fee: NA

As we conclude our top attractions in Zermatt, it is clear that this alpine gem has so much beauty, adventure, and charm that you will find it hard to ever leave. While the village is famous for mesmerising views of Metterhorn, it offers far more, ranging from serene lakes and panoramic viewpoints to hiking trails, glacier adventures, and cultural landmarks that create an unforgettable travel experience.

To make your trip to Zermatt even more memorable, consider exploring Switzerland with Zermatt tour packages from Veena World. From travel and accommodation to day-to-day itineraries, we take care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

FAQs

Q1. Is seeing the Matterhorn guaranteed?

That might not always be the case. Cloud cover can linger, especially in the afternoons. Early mornings offer the best chance of clear views, and multiple vantage points like Gornergrat and Stellisee increase your odds.

Q2. Is Gornergrat worth it if I’m already taking the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car?

Yes, Gornergrat offers a completely different perspective with sweeping panoramas of the Monte Rosa massif and an open-air viewpoint, while Glacier Paradise focuses on altitude, ice caves and glacier vistas.

Q3. Are Zermatt’s hikes only for experienced trekkers?

While the area has challenging alpine routes, trails like the 5 Lakes Walk and the Sunnegga to Findeln path offer accessible, scenic options for casual hikers.

Q4. Is Zermatt enjoyable without skiing in winter?

Winter walkers can use dedicated snowy trails, and non-skiers can enjoy sledding, spa days, scenic train rides and mountain restaurants with spectacular views.

Q5. Is the village centre touristy or genuinely charming?

While Zermatt is polished and popular, the car-free lanes, traditional wooden chalets and tucked-away cafés preserve an authentic alpine atmosphere beyond the main shopping streets.