Zermatt in Winter: 23 Top Things to Do for Skiers & Non-Skiers
Are you traveling to Zermatt in winter and looking for a Bucket List Guide? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a skier or a non-skier, we will cover the 23 top activities in the area!
Winter in Zermatt feels surreal with snow-capped mountains, post-skiing vibes, warm cozy food in the local restaurants, and everything in between.
When I visited Zermatt for the first time, I knew this was somewhere I had to come back to, and maybe move to for a short period. That’s right, I loved it that much! There is a reason that this is one of the best Swiss Alps towns!
Is Zermatt Worth Visiting in the Winter?
Absolutely, Zermatt is 100% worth visiting in the winter! Whether you’re a hardcore skier, a laid-back wanderer, or someone who just wants to sip hot chocolate with a jaw-dropping Matterhorn view, Zermatt has something for everyone.
For skiers and snowboarders, it’s a dream come true—think endless slopes and ultimate powder. If you’re a non-skier, you can ride the Gornergrat Railway, stroll through the cozy car-free villag, or paraglide near the Matterhorn.
Foodies will swoon over Swiss fondue, gourmet mountain-top restaurants, and even igloo bars. And if you’re the adventurous type, try snowshoeing, tobogganing, or paragliding over the Alps (dress warm).
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23 Top Activities for Skiers or Non-Skiers
When most people think about visiting Switzerland in the winter, they think of prime-time skiing and powder days.
However, a lot of articles seem to only have information for skiers and little to no information for non-skiers. I broke up this post into 3 categories: skiers, non-skiers, and unique experiences in Zermatt in winter. My goal is for this post to help with planning your Swiss trip, no matter what type of activites you enjoy.
⭐ For Skiers ⭐
1. Ski the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Europe’s highest ski resort with stunning views and thrilling slopes.
If you want to feel on top of the world while skiing, this is a once-in-a-lifetime spot. Standing at 3,883 meters above sea level, surrounded by 38 four-thousanders and 14 glaciers in 3 countries, well, how could you skip this experience?
Skip the lines and buy your tickets online to save time and get more runs in.
2. Try the Gornergrat to Riffelberg Run
Iconic red and blue runs perfect for breathtaking mountain panoramas.
The blue run, Piste 38, is known as the “Slow Slope”. If you’re looking for views of the Matterhorn during a chill ski day, this is a spot for you. The area between Gornergrat and Riffelberg is perfect for families and beginners.
You can access the Gornergrat by taking the Gornergrat railway which departs from opposite the SBB station in Zermatt.
3. Night Skiing Adventures
Experience the slopes under starry skies (seasonal availability). Just be sure to check ski lifts ahead of time for the current hours.
Fun fact: Every full moon between December and April at Rothorn there is moonlight skiing. Book your Moonlight Descent.
4. Heli-Skiing with Air Zermatt
For thrill-seekers, glide through untouched powder snow with a guide. If you’re looking for a special holiday or maybe even a gift of a “experience”, this is the ultimate winter adventure.
Imagine being above the clouds, shredding through untouched powder, sparse trees, and a helicopter dropping you off and flying over you as it heads back down the mountain.
Note: Please make sure you are experienced and meet the requirements if you choose this adventure.
5. Snowboarding at the Gravity Park
A favorite spot for freestylers and snowboarders. The park is located on the lower part of the Theodul Glacier and includes a mega half pipe, slalom area, jump area, outdoor lanes, kicker lines, rails, and big chairs.
Hop on the Matterhorn Glacier Ride I, the Furggsattel chairlift, or the Trockener Steg to experience the Gravity Park anytime between October and the end of May.
⭐ For Non-Skiers ⭐
6. Gornergrat Railway Ride
A scenic train journey with epic views of the Matterhorn and 29 other peaks. There is a year-round viewing platform at 3,131 meters above sea level, as well as Europe’s highest shopping mall.
Purchase your roundtrip train ticket for a skip-the-line entrance, and receive a included “My Matterhorn Movie with Photoprint”.
Note: Please check the fine print ahead of time of when the trains are leaving and meet up locations to ensure you don’t miss the train.
7. Snowshoeing Through Pine Forests
The best time to snowshoe in Zermatt is between December and April. The snow is the most reliable during this time with the liklihood of bluebird days.
There are two trails that I recommend: The North Face Trail and The Winter Wonder and Discovery Trail. The duration, distance, and elevation gain differ, The North Face Trail being about half of the work than the Winter Wonder trail.
8. Hike the Rundweg Trail
This trail is perfect for those who want different views than just the Matterhorn. There is a chapel, beautiful bridges, and trees to walk through. The trail will also guide you across the Findelbach bridge.
This trail takes about 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete.
9. Tobogganing on Rotenboden
If you are visiting Zermatt in winter with your family and want an exciting activity, add this to your itinerary! The length of the run takes about 10 minutes long and there is an option to purchase a day pass if you are planning on making multiple runs.
There are sled rentals in the village of Zermatt that are recommended for those who want to find slopes with different (or lesser) difficulties that are better for young children.
10. Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis
In the heart of Zermatt there is a brilliant museum where you can learn about the history of mountaineering and the region’s culture.
Since Zermatt is a smaller village, don’t expect a large museum that you will spend hours in, an hour spent in this museum is the perfect amount of time.
11. Visit the Igloo Village (Iglu-Dorf)
Looking for that apres-ski drink (even if you aren’t skiing)? Experience the Igloo Village for a drink, food, or even reserve a night!
They have sleeping bags that will keep you warm if you reserve a Igloo, lounge chairs to enjoy the views when you visit, and hot wine to warm you up while you visit the beautiful Zermatt in winter.
12. Paragliding Over the Alps
During my visit in Zermatt, this was hands down my favorite experience. The staff is knowledgeable and patient, care about their customers, and put safety first.
Soaring through the air and viewing the Matterhorn and surrounding Swiss Alps is unlike any other exerpeince on this list. I highly recommend booking ahead of time because slots fill up quickly with FlyZermatt.
13. Relax at Backstage Hotel’s Spa
The spa has a 7 step ritual based on the creation of the world, an experience you won’t regret. The 7 steps involve a dark steam room, infra-red heated glass perals, a room that stimulates your senses with lavendar, a sauna, and you can find out the last 3 when you book your experience!
Book your unforgettable Backstage Hotel’s Spa experience now.
14. Go Ice Skating at the Zermatt Rink
This classic winter passtime in the middle of Zermatt offers free enjoyment between November and mid March. The hours are typically 9am – 7pm on this natural and articial ice rank, but check ahead of time just to make sure hours haven’t varied.
15. Take a Day Trip to Täsch or Randa
Discover quieter neighboring villages that are only about 10-20 minutes away. The trails run fairly regularly, making it an easy half-day trip.
⭐ Unique Experiences ⭐
16. Explore the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Ice Palace
A magical world of ice sculptures inside the Matterhorn Glacier at 3,883 meters above seal level.
I recommend giving yourself about 4 hours for this experience between the transporation and to enjoy the highest glacier palace in the world.
17. Dine at Chez Vrony
Okay, not going to lie, when I planned my first trip to Switzerland in 2018, I saw this restaraunt and basically planned my trip around it. The gourmet food, delicious wine, and unbeatable Matterhorn views, make this cozy restaraunt tucked in the mountains worth it.
(I will always include eating at Chez Vrony on my itineraries to Zermatt)
18. Discover the Gorner Gorge Frozen Wonderland
There are tours through the Gorner Gorge however, many of these end in early winter in Zermatt.
The wooden walkways, towerling cliffs, and ice cold emerald blue river are a fun way to see how glaciers carved through the rocks back in the Ice Age.
19. Winter Photography Tours
Capture iconic spots with the help of local guides that are typically about an hour to two hours long.
Zermatt also offers Professional Photoshoots at the best photo spots in the village if you are interested in capturing unforgettable memories with stunning photographs.
20. Try Swiss Fondue at Restaurant Stafelalp
A must-visit for local flavors with vegetarian options and great service and value. Reservations are required here, so be sure to book online ahead of time.
21. Attend a Village Festival or Cultural Event
Zermatt in winter offers festivals and events for everyone during the winter. Some of the top events are:
- Magic Mountain Zermatt Electronic Music & Art Festival
- Iglu-Dorf
- Zermatter Torchlight Descent
- New Year’s Eve Parties
22. Cross-Country Skiing in Täsch
This flat terrain is perfect for a beginner or those looking for a more relaxing trail. The trail between Täsch and Randa is the most popular route.
23. Shop in the Village
Discover luxury boutiques, Swiss watches, and souvenirs throughout the village. If you are visiting Zermatt in winter, you can’t go wrong with one of the delicious hot chocolates in town while you’re shopping.
Where to Stay in Zermatt
Zermatt, Switzerland is a great place to visit if you like a luxury stay in boutique hotels or laid back vibes in a hostel or cheaper hotel. There is a little something for everybody in Zermatt.
👉 Top Rated Hotel: Hotel Post
This newer hotel has that homey and cozy feeling when you walk through the doors, but also a sophisticated flare. The rooms have everything you could need during your trip, and views of The Matterhorn.
If you are looking for a place to stay that has a little bit of everything – book this hotel now! Hotel Post has three restaurants, and multiple bars, known as a fun party spot, and is close to the gondola and hiking trails.
👉 Best Hotel for Skiing Trip: Hotel Bellerive
This family-run hotel shows how thoughtful and hospitable hotel owners can be. Hotel Bellerive has many repeat customers for a reason. The hotel has a wood-burning fireplace, a sunroom, a steam room, a sauna, a jacuzzi, and ski lockers.
Hotel Bellerive is about one block from the famous bridge with picturesque views of the Matterhorn and only a short walk from the village.
👉 Best Luxury Hotel: CERVO Mountain Resort
CERVO Mountain Resort isn’t just a resort, it is a full-blown experience. The staff are welcoming the moment you walk through the doors. The rooms are cozy and comfortable with a modern and mountain atmosphere. There is an on-site spa, the Atman Mountain Spa) that offers hot stone baths, a sauna, a ritual room, and an outdoor pool.
CERVO Mountain Resort has a phenomenal restaurant on site that offers a very extensive breakfast selection. It’s a place to celebrate, whether it’s for yourself, an event, or just celebrating life and good times.
This top-notch hotel is located at the bottom of a ski slope and has a groovy Apré Ski vibe. People come for the live music, charcuterie boards, and the fantastic drink mixologist (best Aperols you will find in Zermatt).
Still debating on where to stay in Zermatt? Check out my other post for a deep dive into the top places to stay during Zermatt in winter.
What to Wear in Zermatt in Winter
Here’s a practical packing list of essentials for what to wear in Zermatt in winter to stay warm and comfortable:
Base Layers
- Thermal tops and leggings – Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric like merino wool.
Mid Layers
- Fleece jackets or sweaters – For insulation and warmth.
- Insulated vest – Optional, for layering without bulk.
Outer Layers
- Waterproof ski jacket – Protects against snow and wind.
- Ski pants/bibs – Waterproof and insulated for skiing or snow activities.
Footwear
- Insulated, waterproof boots – Ideal for walking in snow and keeping feet warm.
- Thick, thermal socks – Wool or synthetic options to retain heat.
Accessories
- Beanie or wool hat – Essential for keeping your head warm.
- Neck gaiter or scarf – To shield against wind and cold.
- Waterproof gloves or mittens – Insulated for maximum warmth.
- Sunglasses or ski goggles – Protect eyes from snow glare and UV rays.
Other Essentials
- Snow gaiters – For deep snow, to prevent it from entering your boots.
- Backpack – To carry layers, water, and snacks during excursions.
- Kindle – The perfect “bring with you everywhere” item
- Reusable water bottle – Keeps cold drinks cold & warm drinks warm
- Travel Adapter – Switzerland requires a Type J travel adapter.
FAQs
💡 Is Zermatt worth visiting if you don’t ski?
Yes! There are plenty of things to do in Zermatt are a non-skier. A lot of ideas that are listed above are great for indoor/outdoor activities.
💡 How do you get around Zermatt in winter?
The main way that people travel around Zermatt is by foot due to it being a car-free town, plus everything is relatively close. There are electric taxis and free electric buses with two routes.
💡 How many days should I stay in Zermatt in winter?
I would recommend at least 3-4 days in Zermatt. This gives you time to hit the slopes, have a day to walk around the village, and enjoy other indoor/outdoor activities.
💡 Is visiting Zermatt in December worth it?
If you enjoy chilly, charming villages surrounded by 360-degree views of snow-capped mountains, Zermatt is worth a visit in December.
💡 What is the weather like in Zermatt during winter?
The typical weather averages in Zermatt during the winter are around 20-35°F.
Zermatt in Winter Wrapped Up
This guide was created to help skiers, non-skiers, and those just looking for another idea to add to their Zermatt in winter itinerary.
Find a place to stay, embrace the quaint culture of the village, shred the powder, stay warm, and enjoy hot fondue and chocolate. Cheers!
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
