Top Activities in Zermatt Without a Car – Your Travel Guide
Experience Zermatt – Completely Car-Free
Zermatt is one of the few car-free villages in Switzerland – and that is precisely what makes it so special. Those who come here leave the chaos of everyday life behind and immerse themselves in a world where the Matterhorn forms the backdrop and the air is clear and fresh. Whether you are a hiker, skier, or cultural traveller: Zermatt offers countless possibilities, all of which are perfectly accessible without your own car. We show you how to make the most of your stay.
Getting to Zermatt – Hassle-Free
Since Zermatt is officially car-free, you must leave your vehicle in Täsch and travel from there into the village by Matterhorn Gotthard Railway shuttle. The trains run regularly and reliably – a symbol of typically Swiss punctuality. Alternatively, you can reach Zermatt comfortably by train from Visp or Brig, both of which are well connected to the national SBB rail network.
The Mountain Railways – Enjoying Zermatt from Above
The spectacular mountain railways are the heart of every visit to Zermatt. They effortlessly connect the village with the surrounding peaks and viewpoints.
- Gornergrat Railway: Europe's highest open-air rack railway takes you up to 3,089 metres. At the top, a breathtaking panorama of the Matterhorn and 29 other four-thousanders awaits you.
- Klein Matterhorn / Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: At 3,883 metres, this is the highest cable car station in Europe. Here you will find the year-round ski area as well as an impressive glacier experience.
- Rothorn and Sunnegga: Via the Sunnegga Express underground railway and a subsequent gondola, you reach the Rothorn at 3,103 metres – ideal for families and hikers of all ability levels.
Tip:
With the Zermatt Ski Pass or the Peak Pass card, you can reach all mountain railway stations at a particularly favourable price. Plan your day in advance to avoid peak times.
Hiking Around Zermatt – Pure Nature on Foot
Zermatt offers over 400 kilometres of marked hiking trails – from leisurely walks to challenging high-alpine tours. The best part: many routes begin directly at the village's edge or are easily accessible by mountain railway.
- 5 Lakes Walk: One of the most popular routes leads past five mountain lakes in which the Matterhorn is picturesquely reflected. The starting point is the Blauherd station.
- Gorner Glacier Path: Hiking along the largest glacier area in the Alps – an unforgettable experience in nature.
- Matterhorn Glacier Trail: An easy hiking trail that offers fantastic views of the glacier and the Matterhorn.
For families with children, the flatter paths around Sunnegga and the Leisee are recommended – a small mountain lake that invites you to swim in summer.
Zermatt in Winter – Skiing and Snow Fun
In winter, Zermatt transforms into a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. The ski area is one of the largest and most snow-sure in the world. Thanks to the car-free character of the village, the atmosphere is particularly relaxed: sledging through the village, snowshoe hikes, and cross-country skiing feature alongside classic downhill skiing.
- Theodul Pass and Plateau Rosa: Cross-border skiing all the way to Italy – a truly unique experience!
- Sledging on the Furi Run: Great fun for the whole family.
- Ice Skating in the Village: The ice rink right in the centre of Zermatt is a popular meeting place for young and old alike.
Culture, Dining, and Relaxation in the Village
Zermatt is not only a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but also impresses with a charming village atmosphere. Strolling along the main street, the Bahnhofstrasse, is a pleasure: boutiques, souvenir shops, and cosy cafés alternate along the way.
- Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis: This underground museum tells the fascinating story of the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865. A must for those interested in history.
- Savouring Valaisian Cuisine: Raclette, fondue, and rösti taste particularly good in Zermatt – best enjoyed in one of the traditional mountain restaurants.
- Wellness and Spa: Many accommodations and hotels in Zermatt offer wellness facilities with saunas and pools – the perfect way to recover after an active day in the mountains.
Getting Around the Village – Everything Within Reach
Within the village itself, you travel by eco-friendly electric taxis or simply on foot. The village is compact and easy to navigate – the main attractions, restaurants, and mountain railway stations are all reachable within a few minutes on foot. Electric scooters can also be hired, making exploration even more comfortable.
Book Direct and Enjoy Zermatt to the Fullest
Are you planning a stay in Zermatt? Then book your holiday apartment directly through our website and benefit from the best prices with no agency fees. Our holiday apartments in Zermatt and the surrounding Valais region offer you everything you need for an unforgettable mountain holiday – from modern comfort to authentic Alpine charm. Secure your preferred dates now and experience Zermatt as it should be: free, relaxed, and unforgettable.