Zermatt

About Zermatt

Skiing in Zermatt: Switzerland's premier ski destination

Imagine waking up to the breathtaking sight of the Matterhorn. At Zermatt, one of the world’s most iconic ski resorts, this dream becomes reality. Zermatt is a destination like no other, renowned for its legendary slopes and stunning alpine scenery. The pedestrian-only village, with its charming cobblestone streets, is both picturesque and inviting—no cars, just cozy cafés, upscale boutiques, and centuries-old wooden chalets that exude timeless alpine charm.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. With over 225 miles of skiable terrain, Zermatt offers something for every skill level, including year-round glacier skiing and the unique thrill of skiing across the border into Italy’s Cervinia. Thanks to its exceptional snow quality and one of the longest ski seasons in Europe, Zermatt truly delivers the ultimate Swiss Alps experience.

Planning Your Zermatt Adventure

Plan your trip between late November and early May for the perfect ski adventure, though the glacier area remains open even during summer. Zermatt’s ski area is exceptionally convenient—no need for shuttles or extra transportation. Whether you stay in the heart of the village or the quieter Winkelmatten area, you’ll be within walking distance of three main base lifts: the Gornergrat railway, the Sunnegga funicular, or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise gondola. 

How to get to Zermatt

Getting to Zermatt is easy and scenic, with two main international airports nearby: Geneva Airport (GVA) and Zurich Airport (ZRH). Geneva is slightly closer—about 150 miles, or a 3.5-hour drive—and often more convenient for international travelers due to frequent, affordable flight options. Zurich is about 155 miles away and takes around 4 hours by car. However, Zermatt itself is car-free, so travelers must park in the nearby village of Täsch and take a quick 15-minute shuttle train into Zermatt. 

The most popular and stress-free way to reach Zermatt is by train, with direct rail connections from both airports via the excellent Swiss Rail (SBB) network. Trains are efficient, comfortable and offer incredible alpine views along the way. 

While driving is possible, the train is highly recommended for ease, scenery and the convenience of skipping road conditions and traffic. Once in Zermatt, everything is accessible on foot, making it one of the most charming and walkable ski destinations in the world.

Famously car-free and highly pedestrian-friendly, making it one of the most walkable ski destinations in the world, you'll find that most hotels, restaurants and shops are within easy strolling distance. When you need a lift, electric taxis and e-buses provide clean, quiet transport throughout the village. To reach the slopes or other mountain areas, gondolas, funiculars and cogwheel trains connect Zermatt with surrounding ski terrain and attractions—including links to Italy’s Cervinia via the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise lift system.

The two closest populated villages are Täsch and Randa, both offering accommodations and more budget-friendly lodging than Zermatt proper. While après-ski in these villages is quieter, Zermatt’s lively scene is easily accessible. Täsch and Randa are both about 15 minutes away by the frequent shuttle train—both serviced by the reliable Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn. These rail connections run often, even during peak ski season, ensuring seamless access to and from Zermatt.

Skiing in Zermatt

Zermatt Matterhorn stands out as the premier ski resort in the region for several compelling reasons. Home to Europe’s highest ski lift, soaring to an impressive 12,739 feet above sea level, it grants access to the continent’s longest piste, boasting a remarkable vertical drop of 7,463 feet. Renowned as the sunniest corner of Switzerland, Zermatt offers an unparalleled skiing experience that combines breathtaking views and exceptional alpine conditions.

Lift tickets here reflect the premium experience—expect to pay around CHF 100 ($122 USD) per day for adults during the summer, and CHF 250 ($305 USD) during peak season. Zermatt is included on the Ikon Pass, offering unlimited access for full passholders. While other multi-day passes provide moderate savings, families can take advantage of child discounts and free passes for children under 9. However, be prepared for steep costs, as Zermatt remains a premium destination.

Family vacations in Zermatt

Since 2013, the Zermatt–Matterhorn destination has proudly held the "Families are Welcome" award, a testament to its commitment to creating a family-friendly experience. The resort has thoughtfully addressed the needs of families by offering numerous children's playgrounds, a wide range of facilities and activities, and convenient access to childcare services in many lodges and hotels. Every effort has been made to ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay for visitors of all ages. 

Sunnegga’s Wolli’s Park is the perfect spot for beginners to hit the slopes. In Zermatt, children under nine receive a Wolli Card, offering a host of exciting perks. Best of all, the card is valid for an entire year, from October through November, ensuring year-round fun for young adventurers! With it, children can ride all the mountain lifts for free and join in on all the fun Wolli events as special guests. If your children have only skied a couple of times or are first timers, learning to ski at Wolli Park will be as educational as it is fun. Plus, Sunnegga Restaurant is a great place for the whole family to grab lunch together.

Additionally, Zermatt offers excellent childcare and youth programs year-round. Kinderparadies is a full-service kindergarten open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., welcoming children from 3 months to around 5 years old. At Children’s Club Pumuckel, inside Hotel La Ginabelle, kids from 2½ can enjoy crafts, games, and outdoor fun under the care of certified and trained staff.