17 Best Things to Do in Zermatt – Including Zermatt With Kids (2026)

Zermatt, the pretty idyllic mountain village tucked away in the Matter-Valley in the Swiss Alps, is one of those places that really does live up to the hype. Set at the foot of the mighty Matterhorn, this car‑free mountain village combines dramatic Alpine scenery with a surprisingly relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re visiting as a family, travelling as a couple, or planning a first Swiss Alps adventure, there are plenty of unforgettable things to do in Zermatt – in every season.

This guide brings together the very best things to do in Zermatt, mixing classic highlights with slower, more local experiences, plus practical tips to help you plan your stay. And if you’re searching specifically for things to do in Zermatt with kids, I’ve added a dedicated family section with easy wins (and minimal faff).

Why Visit Zermatt?

Zermatt is famous for one thing above all else: the Matterhorn. But beyond its iconic pyramid shape chocolate mountain, the destination offers glacier adventures, scenic mountain railways, gentle walks, challenging hikes, excellent food and a charming village atmosphere. With no cars allowed, it feels calm and safe (just be aware of the electric taxis) – especially lovely when travelling with children.

Best Things to do in Zermatt

Being an all year-round Swiss resort, you can use this complete guide to Zermatt for first time visitors pretty much in any season.

Whether it is for the hiking trails, the unforgettable journeys up into the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or the most amazing train ride of the Gornergrat Bahn. The choice is really yours, even a simply stroll through the picturesque streets of Zermatt will be an unforgettable memory.

Zermatt delvers in any season. And not to forget, the skiing in Zermatt. Not only available during the winter months, Zermatt offers skiing and snowboarding 365 days a year!

Seriously, the list of the best things to do in Zermatt is endless. This is why we call it our happy place.

Need a Hotel in Zermatt

One day is NOT enough to say you have been to Zermatt. To get the most out of this beautiful Swiss village you should stay at least 2 nights, and arrive early the first day and leave late afternoon on day three.

Otherwise try to make it 3 nights stay. Zermatt has all kind of hotels fitting every budget. We have put together a hotel guide for Zermatt  with some of our favourite hotels some of we have stayed multiple times over the years.

Our absolute favourite is Hotel National Zermatt. Its location right opposite Sunnegga Funicular station makes it super convenient for a stay anytime during the year. If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our blog, brows the map below.

On this map you will see the locations of our things to do in Zermatt. This gives you a good idea of the locality and an area overview. For a larger map view click on the picture.

What you Need, to Experience a great day in Zermatt

Apart from a camera, hiking boots, a picnic bag & a Zermatt Peak Pass, you do not need much for the discovery of the best things to do in Zermatt.

However, if you are following this Guide to Zermatt for First Time Visitors then the best option is to get the 2 days Peak Pass.

This gives you the ultimate freedom to discover the best things to do in Zermatt and its surrounding mountains. And if this is your one and only time visiting Zermatt, then definitely the option you must choose.

All three alpine regions, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Rothorn, and Gornergrat are included in this unlimited pass.

If you only have one day in Zermatt and want to experience snow, glaciers and views, than take the ticket to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Ticket Price

Prices change, to have the accurate pricing structure, please do refer back to the official website from Matterhorn Bergbahnen.

Travel TIP

• Should you be travelling on a Swiss Travel Pass, you might get some discount on the lift tickets.

Mountain & Iconic Experiences in Zermatt

Lets start with the list of things to do in Zermatt, but be warned, Zermatt gets very addictive.

1. Ride Up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

A visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is one of the absolute top things to do in Zermatt. The series of cable cars takes you up to 3,883 metres, making it the highest mountain station in Europe.

At the top, you’re rewarded with vast panoramic views over the Alps, stretching across Switzerland, Italy and France on a clear day. Even if you’re not usually great with heights, the experience feels surprisingly smooth and accessible.

Don’t miss: The 360° viewing platform, year‑round snow and the cinema lounge.
You can read our full article here, on how to get to Klein Matterhorn and its Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

2. Walk Through the Glacier Palace

Honestly, this was one of my favourite things to do in Zermatt during our two day stay. To physically enter deep inside a glacier (15 metres) at nearly 4000m altitude, left me in awe.

Hidden beneath the ice near the summit of Klein Matterhorn, the Glacier Palace feels like stepping into another world. Ice tunnels, frozen crevasses and some of the most amazing ice sculptures you may have ever seen are displayed inside the glacier. make this a A short but memorable visit, for the whole family.

Shine your phone torch into the deep crevasses, everything is sparking like little diamonds. Magnificent.

Check out our full experience stepping in to the world’s highest  Glacier Palace at Klein Matterhorn

3. Ski, Sledge or Build a Snowman at Zermatt’s Glacier Paradise

Would you ever expect building a snowman to be on your “best things to do in Zermatt, Switzerland” list – during a summer trip?
Probably not… but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

When you head up to Klein Matterhorn, you’ll already be enjoying the Glacier Palace and soaking in the breathtaking views from the viewing platform. Step outside, though, and you’ll find yourself standing on real snow — even in the middle of summer.

This is your chance to do something unforgettable: build a snowman in July, or even tick off a true bucket-list experience by skiing on a glacier in summer in Switzerland.

You can rent ski gear directly in Zermatt village, and there’s also a sports shop right at the Matterhorn Express cable car station, making it incredibly easy to add this adventure to your day.

Fun is guaranteed — for kids, adults, and anyone who still loves a bit of Alpine magic.

4. Gorner Gorge Walks & Suspension Bridge at Furi

First of all, this should not be confused with the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world.
The bridge mentioned here is located in Zermatt, near Furi, and crosses the dramatic Gorner Gorge.

The walk to the suspension bridge takes around 15 minutes from the cable car station and is easy to follow. Along the way through Furi, you’ll pass several cosy, charming alpine restaurants — all well known locally for their good food and relaxed mountain atmosphere.

5. BBQ at the Dossen Playground

Just a little further on from the “Hängebrücke” (point 4 – the suspension bridge), you’ll find a fantastic play area with excellent BBQ facilities, sponsored by Schweizer Familie. Firewood is provided — all you need to bring are your sausages or steaks.

There’s plenty to keep both kids and adults entertained: a zipline, climbing wall, swings, and even wooden musical instruments where you can try out a little tune.

It’s a wonderful spot to slow down and enjoy some quality family time, and it’s easy to see why this place features on many things to do in Zermatt lists.

As a result, it can get quite busy at weekends and during school holidays. That said, the BBQ area is spacious — and if it’s full, simply ask to share. Pop your sausage on the hot charcoal, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere.

6. Visit the Gletscher Garten in Zermatt

We absolutely loved this place — the kids just as much as we did — and it really deserves a spot on every things to do in Zermatt list. Don’t assume your children are too young for it either. Ours were just five years old and thought it was the coolest place. By explaining in simple words what they were seeing and why it mattered, their curiosity and excitement only grew.

The path is lined with informative boards and old photographs showing how this area looked many, many years ago, which helps bring the experience to life. Along the way, you’ll see holes carved deep into the rock by the sheer force of swirling water, leaving behind beautifully smooth stone surfaces — fascinating for both children and adults.

There’s also an additional BBQ station here, which is handy if the main one nearby happens to be particularly busy.

7. Explore Zermatt’s old Town

To finish the day in Zermatt, there’s nothing nicer than a gentle stroll through the old town. Keep an eye out for the little street where the Mazots sit snugly side by side — the kind of place where you can almost imagine stories and history floating through the air between these traditional Valaisanne houses.

Some of these old Mazots have since been transformed into beautiful holiday accommodation, blending old and new through thoughtful, tasteful renovations. Proof that stone walls and wooden beams can age very well.

Not far from here, you’ll also find the Matterhorn Museum, where you can dive into the history of the Matterhorn — who climbed it first, when it happened, and how it all unfolded. And because this is Zermatt, a town that attracts its fair share of well-heeled visitors, you’ll also notice jewellery shops displaying watches that probably cost more than your car… or your house. Best admired from the outside.

As the evening rolls in, plenty of wine bars, cosy cafés and restaurants invite you in for a drink. Or why not end the day the Swiss way, with a traditional cheese fondue — or even a tomato fondue — in a local Fondue Stube? Calories don’t count when you’ve been in the mountains all day.

8. Ride Europe’s Highest Train – The Gornergrat Bahn

If you haven’t been up the Gornergrat Bahn yet, now is the time. Get ready for a scenic 33-minute ride with a rather impressive vertical climb of 1,469 metres — all without breaking a sweat.

The Gornergrat Bahn is Europe’s highest open-air cog railway, taking you directly from Zermatt to the summit of the Gornergrat at 3,135 metres. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views doing all the work for you.

You can hop on and off the train along the way at Riffelalp or Riffelberg if you fancy stretching your legs. A lovely option is to hike from Riffelalp to Riffelberg, then jump back on the train for the final climb up to the Gornergrat. Best of both worlds.

At the top, you’ll find Europe’s highest shopping centre — small but perfectly formed — along with a restaurant, a hotel and all the facilities you might need. Shopping with a Matterhorn view? Why not.

Read all about the Gornergrat Railway Journey

9. Glacier View Point at Gornergrat

Once you arrive at the Gornergrat, the view over the Gorner Glacier — and the many glaciers stretching out to either side — is already breathtaking. But don’t stop there. Yes, it’s beautiful… but you can make it exceptional.

From the viewing platform, follow the footpath signs for the round walk. It takes around 20 minutes, and rather amazingly, only a handful of people seem to do it. Their loss.

At the furthest point, it genuinely feels as though you’re standing on the edge of the world — paradise laid out right in front of you. Seeing this vast icefield, with so many glaciers flowing down in the same direction from towering, snowcapped peaks, is nothing short of incredible.

And here’s the thing: there may come a time when glaciers are no longer something we can casually add to a best things to do in Zermatt list. So take your time, soak it all in, and make the most of it while you still can.

The path starts just before the main viewing platform and loops back to finish right at the top — easy, rewarding, and absolutely worth those extra 20 minutes.

10. Hike to the Famous Riffelsee from Gornergrat

Even if hiking wasn’t originally part of your plan, once you’re up at the Gornergrat, you really should walk down to the Riffelsee. Trust me on this one.

You’ve got two options, depending on how energetic (or relaxed) you’re feeling.

Option 1: Hike down from the Gornergrat

The longer option is to hike all the way down from the top of the Gornergrat to Riffelsee. It takes no more than an hour, and that includes plenty of photo stops — which you will need.

There are a few steeper sections, but nothing too dramatic. Just keep in mind that parts of the trail are also used by mountain bikers from around 16:00 onwards, so be ready to step aside occasionally and share the path.

Option 2: The easy way (no shame in that)

The quicker and easier option is to hop back on the Gornergrat Bahn, get off at Riffelsee, and walk down to the lake from there. It’s an easy stroll of around five minutes — perfect if legs are tired or kids are suddenly “very, very done”.

And yes, this is the lake. You’ve probably seen countless photos of the Matterhorn mirrored perfectly in still water — this is where they’re taken. If the weather is calm and there’s no wind, you’re in for a real treat.

11. Uninterrupted Views from Rothorn

As I mentioned earlier, it really is worth getting the 2-day Peak2Peak Pass if you want to fit in as many of these best things to do in Zermatt as possible. It gives you the freedom to ride up every peak, which makes these two days incredibly good value — and far more relaxed. No clock-watching, no regrets.

To reach the Rothorn, the journey itself is part of the fun. You’ll start by taking the Sunnegga Funicular from Zermatt up to Sunnegga, followed by the Blauherd bubble lift, and finally the gondola up to Rothorn at 3,101 metres. Three lifts, zero effort, and views all the way.

Up here, it genuinely feels as though you’re standing at eye level with the Matterhorn. (if it is not covered in clouds) Seeing it from this angle is a completely different experience — and one that never gets old.

There’s also a lovely circular walkway at the top, featuring signs that mark the first ascents of the surrounding peaks. Each one includes a rock from the mountain itself as a symbol — beautifully done and genuinely interesting to read. We had plenty of time to walk the full loop and still make it back down by gondola again around 30 minutes later.

12. Family Fun at Leisee & Wollipark, At Sunnegga

No matter how you plan your days, you really shouldn’t leave Leisee off your best things to do in Zermatt list. It’s an absolutely brilliant spot: a playground, BBQ stations, space to relax — all with a clear view of the Matterhorn. Quite honestly, it’s a little slice of family paradise.

You could easily spend an entire day up here without ever feeling the need to rush off anywhere else — BBQ sizzling, kids playing, a swim in the lake, and that mountain backdrop quietly stealing the show.

One of the highlights for the kids was the tiny cable ferry, shuttling hikers from one side of the lake to the other. Simple, slightly quirky, and endlessly fascinating to watch — sometimes it’s the smallest things that make the biggest memories.

Check our One Day in Zermatt with Kids You will find all the info on how to get to Leisee from Zermatt Switzerland

13. Visit Findeln and Walk Down to Zermatt Village

Another beautiful corner in Zermatt is Findeln and shouldn’t be missed.

Of course, if time (or tired legs) is catching up with you, you can always take the funicular back down to Zermatt — no judgement here.

But if you still have a bit of energy left, I can really recommend the 3.5 km hike down to Zermatt. It’s an easy, scenic hike and a lovely way to end the day.

What we especially loved is that the path takes you through Findeln, the small hamlet just below Sunnegga. With its old wooden houses and peaceful alpine setting, it feels wonderfully untouched.

And if you’re lucky, you might even come across the famous Valais Blacknose sheep. They’re incredibly friendly and usually happy to be patted — just keep an eye on those impressive horns. Cute, but definitely not cuddly in that department.

You can find the hiking map down to Zermatt here –  “How to spend a day in Zermatt with Kids”

14. Meet the Blacknose Sheep At Gornergrat

If you’re visiting Zermatt, you really can’t miss meeting the Valais Blacknose sheep up at the Gornergrat. This is one of those activities that magically gets everyone walking — even the family members who normally claim hiking is “really not their thing”.

From Zermatt village, you hop on the scenic train up to the Gornergrat. While you’re on board, you can check the GPS tracker map showing where the sheep flock is currently grazing, which makes it easy to decide where to get off and where to start your walk. Very high-tech… for sheep.

And once you’ve found them, well — that’s when the cuteness truly begins. Black noses, fluffy coats, curious stares… resistance is completely futile.

Read our Article and watch the Video by clicking on the Photo. ” Meet the Blacknose Sheep”

15. Hike Wolli Wonderland Theme Trail

Theme trails are always a family favourite, and Wolli Wonderland theme trail is no exception. This lovely 2 km trail doesn’t require any cable cars and is also a great option during bad weather in Zermatt — which parents will very much appreciate.

Along the way, kids (and grown-ups) help Wolli the Zermatt sheep search for Mitza the cat. To do so, you’ll need to solve puzzles, take part in a few active games, and listen to audio clues that guide you from one stop to the next. Learning, moving, and having fun — all without anyone realising it’s educational.

A relaxed, low-effort walk that keeps little legs and curious minds happily engaged.

Read all about the hike and find the map of the starting point. Wolli Wonderland Theme Trail

16. Hike or Bike to Stellisee & Fluhalp Hut

Fluhalp Hut is far more than just a place to sleep. It’s a front-row seat to one of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes. Morning light over Stellisee is calm and beautiful, and the nearby Five Lakes Walk is incredibly rewarding.

Whether you’re hiking, taking photos, or simply enjoying the mountains, Fluhalp offers unforgettable views. You can tick off several of the best things to do in Zermatt right here — without ever feeling rushed.

We arrived with our mountain bikes, which worked brilliantly. Whether you choose to hike or bike up to Fluhalp and Stellisee, the route and direction are the same, making it easy to plan — and even easier to enjoy.

Read How to Hike to Stellisee and Fluhalp hut

17. Bike the Flow Trail in Zermatt from Sunnegga

If you love biking but are still fairly new to flow trails, then the Zermatt F1 Flow Trail is made for you. It does exactly what it promises: flow.
>>With very few obstacles, smooth bends and just enough small jumps to keep things fun, this is an ideal family-friendly flow trail in Zermatt.

To get started, ride the Sunnegga Funicular from Zermatt village up the mountain. As you exit the tunnel at the top, keep to the right and you’ll soon spot the trail start.</p>

From there, 5.2 km of pure fun awaits — followed by another 3 km back down to Zermatt along the mountain r

oad. Smiles guaranteed, and very likely a few “can we do that again?” moments too.

How to Get to Zermatt (Car‑Free Village)

Zermatt is completely car‑free. If you’re travelling by car, park in Täsch and take the shuttle train (around 12 minutes). You can’t drive to Zermatt. Once in Zermatt, everything is walkable or reachable by electric taxi or bus.

Of course you can arrive by train from anywhere in Switzerland.

Itinerary, Tips & Suggestions for Zermatt

You can easily use this list as a ready-made itinerary:

• Day one: points 1–7

• Day two: points 8–10 & 14

• Day three (or four): points 11, 12 & 16, followed by 13 or 17

That said, there’s one small tweak I’d personally recommend.

If you have the Peak2Peak Pass, which allows unlimited use of the lifts, I’d suggest a small variation after point 6 (the Glacier Garden).

If the connection is running, head over to Riffelberg via the bubble cable car from Furi and continue with points 8–10 and 14 from there.

It makes for a lovely afternoon and gives you the chance to return to the Gornergrat for evening light. This connection wasn’t running during our visit, so it’s worth checking in advance. I’ve marked the lift clearly on the Zermatt map above.

Our Thoughts About The Best Things to do in Zermatt

We have done these things to do in Zermatt already multiple times and will be doing them again and again.

It has opened up an amazing perspective and afforded knowledge about Zermatt and its different areas. This Ultimate Zermatt Guide for first time visitors, gives you a good overview of the whole area. Pick where you like to visit and explore a bit deeper.

We were busy bees over these two days, but this is what exploring in a short time is all about. And we left Zermatt with four happy hearts. We are already looking forward to returning during the winter season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Zermatt

Is Zermatt worth visiting in winter without skiing?

Yes, absolutely. Scenic mountain railways, winter hiking trails and Matterhorn views make Zermatt well worth visiting year‑round.

How many days do you need in Zermatt?

Ideally, plan 2–3 days to experience the highlights without rushing. YOu can follow our itinerary to have a jamed packed visit to Zermatt

Is Zermatt expensive?

Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s more expensive destinations, but costs can be managed by prioritising key experiences. Sunnegga side is cheap and the free activities up and around the areas are endless.

Can you visit Zermatt with kids?

Yes. Zermatt is very family‑friendly thanks to its car‑free village, easy walks and accessible mountain excursions.

Zermatt Travel Guide

• Meet the Blacknose Sheep at the Gornergrat
• Where is the best place to stay when in Zermatt. Hotels for all Budgets
• Zermatt – Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – An Epic Family Experience
• World’s Highest Glacier Palace – Why you should visit
• Zermatt – A Family Day trip to Zermatt
• Gornergrad – Viewpoint reachable with ease – NO HIKING

I hope that the information provided here will prove useful when discovering Best Things to do in Zermatt.</p>

If I have left anything out or you have a question, please ask your questions in the comments below so that other readers can join in the conversation and benefit from your queries a

lso.

Thank you & Never Forget to Travel

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