Zermatt, Switzerland Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Zermatt is an iconic alpine destination, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, world-class skiing, and timeless charm. Located at the foot of the Matterhorn, this car-free Swiss chaletge offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and tranquility. In winter, Zermatt is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with pristine slopes and glacier skiing, while summer invites hikers and climbers to explore scenic trails and mountain vistas. Luxury chalets in Zermatt combine traditional chalet style with modern amenities, offering privacy, stunning views, and exceptional comfort. With its vibrant après-ski scene, gourmet dining, and majestic alpine beauty, Zermatt promises an unforgettable escape.

Why Zermatt, Switzerland?

  • Zermatt lies at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn peak.
  • The village is car-free and can only be reached by train or on foot.
  • The first ski lift was installed in Zermatt in 1930.
  • The ski resort contains over 360 kilometers of marked ski runs.
  • The iconic Gornergrat railway line runs from Zermatt to the Gornergrat summit at 3,089 meters.

History

Zermatt, located at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps, is one of the most renowned mountain resorts in the world. Originally a small farming village, Zermatt’s transformation into a major tourist destination began in the mid-19th century when mountaineers began flocking to the area to attempt the first ascent of the Matterhorn. In 1865, the successful climb of the mountain by Edward Whymper and his team brought international attention to Zermatt, cementing its status as a hub for mountaineering and outdoor adventure.

Throughout the 20th century, Zermatt expanded its reputation as a luxury resort, attracting a wealthy clientele with its stunning scenery, pristine environment, and exclusive atmosphere. The village embraced its car-free status, ensuring that its charm and tranquility remained intact, while cable cars and ski lifts made the surrounding peaks more accessible. Zermatt became a world-class skiing destination, offering some of the best slopes in the Alps, as well as year-round skiing on the Matterhorn Glacier.

Transportation on Zermatt, Switzerland

Getting to Zermatt, Switzerland and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
  • Many nationalities can enter Switzerland visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Proof of onward or return travel may be required.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Switzerland; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Note: Zermatt is car-free. Visitors must park in Täsch, the nearest village, and take a shuttle train or taxi to Zermatt.
  • License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right.
  • Roads: Well-maintained up to Täsch but steep and winding in alpine areas.
  • Traffic Rules: Snow tyres are mandatory in winter, and chains may be required on mountain roads. Parking in Täsch is readily available but can be busy during peak seasons. Shuttle trains run frequently between Täsch and Zermatt.

Local Transportation

Zermatt, a stunning resort town in the Swiss Alps, offers an array of transport options that make it easy to explore its car-free village and the iconic Matterhorn. The town is accessible by train, with regular services from major cities like Zurich and Geneva, which brings travelers directly to the Zermatt station. For those traveling by car, the journey stops at Täsch, where a scenic shuttle train takes passengers into the car-free Zermatt. Once in the village, Zermatt’s efficient electric buses and taxis provide easy access to the resort’s attractions and ski lifts. Visitors can also rent electric vehicles or bicycles to navigate the town and nearby trails.

Know Before You Go...® - Zermatt, Switzerland Travel Tips

Before making their way to Zermatt, Switzerland , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Zermatt, Switzerland even more relaxing.

Capital: Not applicable
Population: 5,800 (year-round residents)
Size: Roughly 37 square miles
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: German is the official language of Zermatt. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, catering to the village's international clientele.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF).
  • ATMs are available throughout the village.
  • Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most establishments.
  • Contactless payments are common in shops, restaurants, and hotels.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory as service charges are included in restaurant bills, but leaving an additional 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax) of 7.7% is typically included in displayed prices for goods and services.
Dress Code: Zermatt has a stylish yet practical dress code. Winter ski attire is necessary during the colder months, while smart casual or alpine chic attire is recommended for dining, après-ski activities, and evening events.
Topography: Zermatt is set at the base of the iconic Matterhorn, offering stunning mountain views, picturesque valleys, and glacier landscapes. The village is a renowned year-round destination for skiing, mountaineering, and hiking.
Telephone: * Country code: +41 * Area code for Zermatt: 027. * Mobile networks and Wi-Fi are widely available in hotels, restaurants, and public spaces.

Zermatt, Switzerland Weddings and Honeymoons

In Zermatt in the Swiss Alps, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Application: Submit a marriage application to the local Zivilstandsamt (Civil Registry Office) in Zermatt or the relevant municipality in Switzerland where the marriage will take place. Applications should be submitted well in advance, especially for popular wedding dates.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards
  • Birth certificates (issued within the last six months, translated into German or French and certified with an Apostille)
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (issued by your home country and translated into German or French)
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of residence (if applicable)
  • Completed application form from the Zivilstandsamt

Translation and Certification: All foreign documents must be translated into an official Swiss language (German, French, or Italian) by a sworn translator and certified with an Apostille.

Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in German (or another local language) by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak the local language. Ceremonies typically take place at the Zivilstandsamt or an approved venue.

Costs: Marriage registration fees typically range from CHF 200 to CHF 400, depending on the municipality and specific arrangements. Additional fees may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional ceremony arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony:  Zermatt offers extraordinary venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including luxury lodges, alpine chapels, and stunning outdoor locations with views of the Matterhorn. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.