Zermatt 2 weeks

Arrive in Zermatt by train, a car-free village accessible only by rail. The station is centrally located, offering your first glimpse of the iconic Matterhorn.

• Book train tickets in advance for better prices, especially during peak season.

Check into your hotel. We've selected a mid-range option known for its comfort and proximity to village amenities.

• Consider a room with a Matterhorn view for an unforgettable experience.

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Zermatt. Admire the traditional wooden chalets, browse local shops, and get acquainted with the village layout.

Enjoy a traditional Swiss dinner. Schäferstube is known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Valaisan specialties like raclette and fondue.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Board the Gornergrat cogwheel railway for a spectacular ascent. This iconic train journey offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers.

• Purchase tickets online in advance to save time. Consider the Swiss Travel Pass for potential discounts.

At 3,089 meters, the Gornergrat summit provides unparalleled 360-degree views of the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa massif, and numerous glaciers. Take photos and soak in the alpine panorama.

Hike or take the train one stop down to Riffelsee. This small alpine lake offers a famous reflection of the Matterhorn on calm days.

• Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

Enjoy lunch with a view at Restaurant Riffelberg. It offers a menu of Swiss dishes and light snacks amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Learn about Zermatt's mountaineering history, the first ascent of the Matterhorn, and the village's development at this engaging museum.

• Check closing times as they vary seasonally.

Take the cable car up to Schwarzsee, the starting point for the hike towards the Hörnli Hut, the base camp for Matterhorn climbers.

Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike to the Hörnli Hut (2,855m). The trail is steep and rocky, offering dramatic close-up views of the Matterhorn's north face.

• This hike is for experienced hikers only. Wear sturdy hiking boots and carry water.

Rest and refuel at the Hörnli Hut. Enjoy simple refreshments and the incredible proximity to the imposing Matterhorn.

Descend back to Schwarzsee and take the cable car down to Zermatt. The descent offers a different perspective on the landscape.

Indulge in a well-deserved dinner at Chez Vrony, a rustic and charming restaurant offering organic, farm-to-table cuisine with Matterhorn views.

• Book well in advance, as this is a very popular spot.

Take the underground funicular from Zermatt to Sunnegga. This quick and scenic ride brings you to a beautiful sun terrace with stunning Matterhorn views.

A short, easy walk from Sunnegga leads to Leisee, a picturesque lake perfect for families and relaxation. Enjoy the reflection of the Matterhorn and perhaps a dip on a warm day.

• There's a playground and barbecue area for families.

Have lunch at the self-service restaurant at Sunnegga. It offers a variety of dishes with fantastic views from its terrace.

Begin the scenic Five Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg). You can complete the entire hike or just enjoy a section, perhaps visiting Stellisee and Grindjisee for iconic Matterhorn photos.

• Wear comfortable shoes. The full hike takes about 2.5-3 hours.

Enjoy a more casual dinner at Pizzeria Ristorante Capri, offering delicious pizzas and Italian dishes in a relaxed setting.

Indulge in a morning of relaxation at a local spa. Enjoy saunas, steam rooms, and pools to rejuvenate after your hikes.

• Book spa treatments in advance.

Savor a delightful lunch at Whymper-Stube, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy, historic ambiance.

Visit the historic parish church, a central point in Zermatt. It offers a peaceful respite and insight into the village's spiritual heritage.

Explore the main street, Bahnhofstrasse, for souvenirs, Swiss watches, local crafts, and outdoor gear. It's the heart of Zermatt's commercial activity.

Enjoy a relaxed evening with drinks at Bar 5250. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a good selection of beverages.

Enjoy a scenic, moderately challenging hike from Zermatt up to Riffelalp (2,211m). The trail winds through forests and offers continuous Matterhorn views.

• Wear appropriate footwear. The path is well-maintained.

Stop for lunch at the historic Riffelalp Resort. Enjoy their terrace dining with iconic Matterhorn vistas.

Wander through the beautiful gardens surrounding the Riffelalp Resort, a peaceful oasis with stunning mountain backdrops.

Take the Gornergrat Bahn back down to Zermatt from the Riffelalp station.

Enjoy an Italian dinner at La Taverna, known for its authentic pizzas and pasta dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Take the cable car from Zermatt to the Furi station, the gateway to the Trift Gorge.

From Furi, follow the signs for the Trift Gorge. The walk takes you through scenic alpine landscapes.

Experience the dramatic Trift Gorge, carved by glacial meltwater. Cross the impressive suspension bridge for thrilling views of the gorge and surrounding peaks.

• The bridge can be windy; hold on tight!

Have a simple lunch at Restaurant Furi, conveniently located near the cable car station.

Take the cable car back from Furi to Zermatt.

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Restaurant Du Pont, offering creative cuisine in an elegant setting.

Take a scenic train journey from Zermatt to Brig. This is the main hub for onward travel into the Aletsch Arena region.

Continue by train from Brig to Betten Talstation, the valley station for the cable car up to Bettmeralp.

Ascend via cable car from Betten Talstation to the car-free village of Bettmeralp.

From Bettmeralp, take a short walk or another cable car towards the viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the Great Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps.

• Consider visiting the Aletsch Arena website for specific viewpoint recommendations and trail maps.

Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants in Bettmeralp, with options ranging from casual to traditional Swiss fare.

Descend via cable car and take the train back to Zermatt.

Ascend to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (3,883m), Europe's highest cable car station. The journey itself offers incredible alpine panoramas.

Hike the Matterhorn Glacier Trail from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise towards Trockener Steg. This relatively easy trail offers unique views of the glacier and surrounding peaks.

• Be prepared for cold temperatures even in summer. Wear layers.

Enjoy the views from Trockener Steg. Here you can see the Matterhorn up close and access the viewing platform.

Have a snack or light lunch at the restaurant at the top station, offering high-altitude refreshments.

Descend via cable car from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise back to Zermatt.

Enjoy dinner at your hotel's restaurant or a similar mid-range option for a relaxed evening.

Take a scenic, mostly flat walk from Zermatt to the picturesque hamlet of Zmutt. This traditional village offers a glimpse into Zermatt's past.

• The path is well-marked and easy to follow.

Explore Zmutt, with its ancient wooden houses, small chapel, and quiet atmosphere. Observe traditional alpine farming practices.

Enjoy lunch at the rustic Zmutt Restaurant, famous for its hearty Valaisan dishes and sunny terrace.

Enjoy a leisurely walk back to Zermatt, perhaps taking a slightly different path for varied scenery.

Visit the Alpine Center for information on local guides, climbing courses, and mountaineering activities if you're interested in further adventure.

Dine at Walliserkanne, a traditional restaurant serving Swiss specialties in a charming, rustic setting.

Take the cable car up to Schwarzsee for access to higher trails and glacier views.

Embark on a hike from Schwarzsee towards Furgg. This trail offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding glaciers.

• Check weather conditions before heading out; trails can be challenging.

Enjoy a mountain lunch at a restaurant in the Furgg area, offering respite and sustenance with panoramic views.

Descend back to Zermatt via the cable car network from Furgg or a nearby station.

Experience modern Italian cuisine at Cervo Puro, known for its sophisticated ambiance and delicious food.

Take a scenic train ride down the Mattertal valley to the charming village of St. Niklaus. This offers a different perspective on the region.

Wander through St. Niklaus, known as the 'gateway to Zermatt' and the birthplace of the famous mountaineer Heinrich Schafroth. It's a less touristy village with traditional architecture.

Enjoy a simple and authentic lunch at a local restaurant in St. Niklaus, perhaps near the train station.

Consider a short, easy hike in the vicinity of St. Niklaus to enjoy the valley scenery and fresh air.

Take the train back up the valley to Zermatt.

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Chez Gaby, known for its excellent fondue and cozy atmosphere.

Ascend via the Rothorn Paradise cable car system to Blauherd and then Rothorn (3,103m). This offers a different, stunning perspective of the Matterhorn.

From Blauherd, take a short walk to Stellisee, one of the most photographed lakes in the Zermatt area, famous for its Matterhorn reflection.

• Best light for reflection is often early morning or late afternoon.

Enjoy lunch with a view at the restaurant at Rothorn, offering simple fare and spectacular alpine scenery.

Descend back to Zermatt and relax at a cozy cafe, perhaps enjoying a coffee or hot chocolate with a pastry.

Savor a final fondue or raclette experience at Say Cheese, a restaurant dedicated to cheese specialties.

Enjoy a final Swiss breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from the village shops.

Depart from Zermatt by train, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Alps.