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a snow covered mountain with houses in the foreground

Switzerland · December

Zermatt in December

December in Zermatt offers the quintessential Alpine Christmas dream, with snow-dusted chalets and the majestic Matterhorn providing a dramatic backdrop. This month is ideal for experiencing the village at its most festive, with Christmas markets and a vibrant ski season kicking off.

Photo by Zhu Yunxiao on Unsplash

Is December a good time to visit Zermatt?

December is a workable month for Zermatt with tradeoffs. -8-2°C, cold, snowy, festive atmosphere — Bookings for Christmas and New Year's are essential and should be made many months in advance.

Overall: Great
Crowds: Heavy
Prices: Heavy

What makes December worth visiting

  • Opening of the full ski season
  • Christmas markets and decorations
  • New Year's Eve celebrations

Events in Zermatt this December

December
Christmas Markets

The village is adorned with festive lights and stalls selling seasonal goods.

December
New Year's Eve

Zermatt often hosts a spectacular fireworks display over the Matterhorn.

What to pack for Zermatt in December

Winter-specific items.

Cold-Weather Clothing

  • Waterproof and Windproof Ski Jacket
  • Insulated Ski Pants
  • Thermal Base Layers (Merino Wool or Synthetic)
  • Fleece or Down Mid-Layer
  • Waterproof Winter Gloves or Mittens

Footwear

  • Insulated, Waterproof Winter Boots
  • Après-Ski Boots or Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • Ski/Snowboard Boots

Electronics

  • Portable Power Bank
  • European Plug Adapter (Type J)
  • Voltage Converter (if needed)

Health & Safety

  • High SPF Sunscreen
  • Lip Balm with SPF
  • Basic First-Aid Kit
  • Personal Medications
  • Motion Sickness Medication

Miscellaneous

  • Goggles
  • Sunglasses
  • Backpack (Daypack)
  • Swimsuit
Full packing list →