Local Secrets of Zermatt

Zermatt

Zermatt is that little Swiss mountain town that feels straight out of a postcard. Tucked away in the south of Switzerland, right at the base of the famous Matterhorn, it’s the kind of place where the mountains are always in sight and the air feels extra fresh.

It’s a small town, with just about 5,800 locals, but don’t let the size fool you—Zermatt welcomes nearly 2 million visitors a year who come for the outdoors, the snowy peaks, and the peaceful, car-free streets (yep, no cars allowed here!).

The average temperature floats around 5°C, but it really depends on the season—cold and snowy in winter, sunny and crisp in summer. It’s basically perfect for people who love nature, mountain sports, and cozy vibes.

If you’re planning a trip, go in late spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and epic views—or winter if you’re chasing snow.

Zermatt and the Matterhorn mountain

Zermatt Lake

Arriving to Zermatt

Zermatt is one of those places that feels like a real-life snow globe. Nestled at the base of the iconic Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps, it’s the kind of town that makes you want to unplug, breathe in the mountain air, and never leave. Getting there is part of the experience—since cars aren’t allowed in Zermatt, you’ll take a train from places like Visp or Täsch. If you’re driving, you’ll have to park in Täsch and hop on the shuttle train for the last stretch. It’s super scenic, so no complaints.

When it comes to where to stay, everything is pretty walkable, but some areas have their perks. Bahnhofstrasse, the main street, is ideal if you want to be close to shops and restaurants. For a quieter vibe and amazing Matterhorn views, Winkelmatten is a local favorite—calm but still close to everything. Zermatt’s all about those cozy chalets and alpine lodges, so wherever you land, it’s gonna be charming.

Since it’s a car-free town, getting around is super chill. You can walk basically everywhere, but there are also little electric taxis and buses if your legs need a break. In winter, skis and snowboards are the unofficial local transport. And if you’re heading up the mountains, the Gornergrat railway and cable cars will be your best friends.

Hungry? Zermatt has that hearty, alpine food that hits just right after a day outside. Think raclette, fondue, and rosti, plus loads of Swiss chocolate for dessert. There are also some surprisingly good bakeries and even gourmet spots if you’re feeling fancy.

As for what to see—obviously, the Matterhorn steals the show. But there’s more: the Gornergrat lookout point, Glacier Paradise, and the cute Old Village with traditional wooden houses are all worth exploring. In summer, hiking and mountain biking are huge, while in winter, it’s a dream spot for skiing, snowboarding, or just chilling with a hot drink and a view.

And don’t leave without doing at least one mountain experience—sunrise at Gornergrat, paragliding, or even just soaking in a spa while watching the snow fall. Zermatt is all about nature, peace, and slow-living, with a side of chocolate and wow-factor views.

Accomodation

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Currency: The official currency of Zermatt is the Swish Franc (CHF) 1 is equivalent to 1.25 USD.

Keep in mind before travelling to Zermatt

Zermatt may be small, but it’s got a big personality—especially when it comes to festivals. This mountain town knows how to mix tradition, music, and alpine fun all year long.

One of the most iconic events is the Zermatt Unplugged festival in April, where acoustic music takes over the town with epic views in the background. There’s also the Folklore Festival in August, packed with traditional costumes, dancing, and food. In winter, things get cozy and festive with Christmas Markets and New Year celebrations in the snowy streets. Zermatt Marathon draws runners in July, and the Shepherd’s Festival celebrates local mountain life, including a black-nose sheep competition. Don’t miss Swiss National Day on August 1st with fireworks, and the Music Festival Zermatt, where classical sounds echo in the Alps.

Got the travel bug while you’re in town? Zermatt is perfect for day trips. Hop over to Täsch or Randa for chill vibes, or head to Saas-Fee for more mountain magic. Brig, Visp, and St. Niklaus are also close and easy to reach by train. Each one adds a little something different—more hiking, views, or just a fresh spot to grab lunch before heading back to the base of the Matterhorn.

Tips to visit Zermatt

Zermatt may be tucked away in the Alps, but it’s got its own unique rhythm and charm. The people from here are called Zermatters, and they’re usually friendly, down-to-earth, and used to life in the mountains. When greeting someone, a simple “Grüezi” (in Swiss German) works perfectly, though you might also hear “Bonjour” thanks to the French influence.

The main language is Swiss German, but English and French are also widely spoken, especially in hotels, shops, and restaurants. Locals typically eat lunch around 12–1 pm and dinner between 6:30 and 8 pm. Stores usually open by 9 am and close around 6:30 pm, and yes—most things are shut on Sundays.

Tipping isn’t a strict rule here since it’s often included, but rounding up or adding 5–10% is a nice gesture. Switzerland’s health care system is private but excellent. Dress code? Think cozy, sporty, and weather-ready. And don’t be surprised if someone says “es fägt”—it means “it’s fun!” in true Zermatt style.