If you are looking for the best ways to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt, you’re in the right place. Anyone visiting Switzerland should plan a trip to Zermatt to see the Matterhorn. Known for its iconic, towering peak, the Matterhorn is one of the most stunning mountains in the world.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone who enjoys awe-inspiring views, Zermatt offers countless ways to experience this magnificent Swiss landmark. From hiking trails to cable car rides and secret viewpoints, there’s no shortage of ways to see the Matterhorn up close.
This article highlights the 10 best ways to see the Matterhorn, insider tips, photography ideas, and more to make your visit unforgettable. Keep reading to ensure you make the most of your trip before you go!
The Matterhorn is a famous mountain in the Alps, located on the border between Switzerland and Italy. Its unique pyramid shape with four sharp edges makes it one of the most recognizable mountains in the world.
The Matterhorn is near the Swiss town of Zermatt and the Italian town of Breuil-Cervinia. It stands 4,478 meters (14,692 feet) tall, making it one of the highest peaks in the Alps. Many people visit to hike, ski, or enjoy the stunning views.
This mountain is also important in the history of climbing. In 1865, a group of climbers reached the top for the first time, but the climb was hazardous. Even today, the Matterhorn remains a challenging climb, and many adventurers still try to reach its peak.
Today, the Matterhorn is a symbol of Switzerland and a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors worldwide to see its beauty and experience the Swiss Alps.
Before we dive into the best ways to see the Matterhorn, let’s explore the top ways to travel to Zermatt:
Zermatt has no airport, so the nearest options are Zurich, Geneva, and Sion. Sion is the closest but has fewer flights, so most travelers prefer Zurich or Geneva. You can take a scenic train ride from either airport to Zermatt, which takes about 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Alps.
If you’d rather, you can take a taxi up to Mürini Hill and the Zermatt Matterhorn viewpoint. Zermatt is a car-free village, so you’ll find little electric taxis that can take you around the town.
This isn’t the cheapest option, as a taxi ride usually costs between 20 and 40 CHF. But, if you’re in a hurry or can’t walk up, it might be worth paying to see the fantastic views. You could even split the cost with a few friends.
To get a taxi, head to the Zermatt train station, and you can hire an electric taxi to take you to Mürini Hill.
The best way to reach Zermatt is by train, as cars are prohibited in the town. Direct trains depart every hour from Zurich and Geneva airports to Zermatt, offering a convenient and scenic route.
The train ride is terrific, with the last stretch being the highlight. Zermatt is also the final stop on the Glacier Express, a world-renowned scenic train journey. If you’re a fan of stunning views, this is the perfect way to travel!
If you’re driving, remember that cars are not permitted in Zermatt. You’ll need to park in the nearby village of Täsch, which is just a 12-minute train ride from Zermatt. Swiss trains make this connection easy and stress-free!
Visiting the Matterhorn in Switzerland is a dream for many travelers, and there are many ways to experience this iconic mountain. Let’s explore the 10 best ways to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt:
One of the best ways to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt is by riding the Gornergrat Bahn, a historic train that has been running since 1898. The Gornergrat Bahn is the first electric rack railway in Switzerland.
The trains leave every 30 minutes, but if you want the best views, sit on the right-hand side of the train. The ride takes you up to 1,604 meters above sea level, offering fantastic views of the mountains.
The trip to the top takes only 33 minutes. Once you reach the top, you can explore different stations along the route. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike down to the next station or two, depending on your energy. The area is mostly open, so you’ll get stunning, expansive views of the Matterhorn from all directions.
Pro Tip: Catch the train early, around 8 am, to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning light on the mountains.
Want to get even higher? Ride the cable car to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, perched at 3,883 meters. Not only do you get up-close views of the Matterhorn, but you also have a chance to step into the Glacier Palace.
It’s a must for adventurers and the views? They’ll stay with you forever.
One of the best ways to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt is hiking. Hiking here is super popular, and the Matterhorn is one of the top spots for hikers. Here are the most popular trails:
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and check the weather before you hike. If you’re not an experienced hiker, consider hiring a local guide for safety and a better experience.
Taking a cable car is an excellent choice if you want to see the Matterhorn up close but don’t have the time or energy to hike. Here are two options:
Pro Tip: Buy your tickets in advance, especially during busy tourist seasons, and dress warmly, as it can be cold at high altitudes.
Switzerland is known for its snow sports, and the Matterhorn is a great place to enjoy them! The Zermatt Ski Area is the most popular spot.
Winter has slopes for all skill levels, so you can have fun whether you’re a beginner or experienced. Skiing or snowboarding with the Matterhorn in the background is a fantastic experience.
Pro Tip: Check the snow conditions before you go, hire an instructor if you’re new, and always follow the ski resort’s safety rules.
If you love adventure, the Matterhorn has some exciting climbing routes. But climbing the Matterhorn is challenging and can be dangerous. You’ll need special training, equipment, and time to adjust to the high altitude. The weather can change quickly, so always put safety first.
Pro Tip: Always hire a certified mountain guide when climbing the Matterhorn to ensure safety.
Want to do something extra special? Take a helicopter tour for a fantastic sky view of the Matterhorn and the beautiful Alps. It’s a great way to get excellent pictures of the mountain.
Pro Tip: Book your helicopter tour in advance to secure your spot, and don’t forget a camera with a zoom lens to capture the stunning views.
Paragliding is one of the best ways to see the Matterhorn from the sky. You can join local guides for a tandem flight, which means you’ll fly with an experienced instructor. Make sure to dress warmly because it can get cold up there! It’s a thrilling ride as you soar over the beautiful landscape.
Pro Tip: Before paragliding, ensure the operator is certified and follows all safety guidelines.
If you love photography, the Riffelsee Trail is a must-see. Riffelsee, a small alpine lake near the Gornergrat, offers one of the most famous reflections of the Matterhorn. Starting at the Rotenboden station, this loop takes you around the peaceful Riffelsee Lake.
On a calm day, the still water perfectly reflects the Matterhorn, creating a stunning mirror image. Whether you’re a pro photographer or want to capture great shots for Instagram, this trail offers some of the best views in Zermatt. This is one of the best ways to see the Matterhorn.
Pro Tip: Bring a tripod if you’re serious about capturing that perfect mirrored shot.
You don’t have to climb the mountain to see amazing views of the Matterhorn. Zermatt is a beautiful, car-free village with lots of charming streets. Walking around, you can stop at cozy spots to enjoy the view.
Furthermore, you’ll pass by local shops, cafes, and restaurants so you can take breaks and relax while enjoying the scenery. It’s an easy way to experience the beauty of the Matterhorn without a challenging hike. You’ll always have stunning views whether having a coffee or walking around.
Pro Tip: Visit the Kirchbrücke Bridge in Zermatt for amazing Matterhorn views. It’s a perfect spot to capture the mountain with charming chalets.
The Matterhorn isn’t just known for its stunning views—it has a rich history and culture. The Matterhorn Museum, located in the heart of Zermatt, is a great place to learn about the town’s connection to the mountain. It’s easy to visit and included with the Swiss Travel Pass.
At the museum, explore exhibits about the mountain’s history, including the first climb in 1865. The museum also highlights the legends, stories, and brave climbers who reached the peak.
Moreover, it’s not just about old artifacts—it gives you a deeper understanding of Zermatt’s unique spirit and bond with the mountains. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in history or the town’s past.
Pro Tip: Use the Swiss Travel Pass for free entry to the Matterhorn Museum and save on tickets while exploring Zermatt’s history.
Along with the best ways to see the Matterhorn, knowing the best times to visit is essential. The best times to visit are sunrise or sunset on a clear day when you can see the Matterhorn.
If you visit in the morning, it’s best to go around 10 am – 11 am after the sun has risen over the valley. Before that, some parts of the view might be in shadow. The worst time to visit is in the afternoon because the sun will be behind the Matterhorn, making the light too bright.
So, the best time to visit is always at sunset. The sun sets behind the Matterhorn, and as it goes down, the view looks fantastic. On clear evenings, the sky changes colors to orange, pink, and even purple. In winter, the rosy skies and the rooftop snow look magical.
While in Zermatt, savor the delicious Swiss dishes at local restaurants. Cheese fondue and rösti (crispy potatoes) are a must-try.
Also, don’t miss classic favorites like raclette and Älplermagronen, perfect for enjoying a view of the Matterhorn. Whether dining in or exploring the shops, these local specialties offer an authentic taste of Switzerland alongside the best ways to experience the Matterhorn.
Now that you know the best ways to see the Matterhorn, let’s check out the must-visit restaurants in Zermatt:
Start your day with a tasty treat at Fuchs Bakery! They make delicious croissants, breads, and sweet snacks using local ingredients.
Furthermore, try the Mountain Guide Bread, a whole of apples, nuts, and spices. It even comes in a mini version, perfect for hiking. Don’t forget to grab a Matterhorn Cube made of chocolate as a yummy souvenir!
If you’re looking for a meal after a day on the slopes, check out Madre Nostra at the Cervo Mountain Resort. On some Mondays, you can enjoy a special three-course BBQ dinner.
Everyone has options, including salads, pasta, and fish dishes for vegetarians and pescatarians.
For a dinner with a fantastic view, head to 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, the highest hotel and restaurant in the Swiss Alps. Vis-à-Vis serves Swiss meals made with local ingredients, such as salmon trout, fondue, and pork cordon bleu.
Many travelers dream of capturing the Matterhorn, but beyond the classic postcard shots, there are plenty of creative ways to make your photos stand out. Here are some unique ideas to bring a fresh perspective to your Matterhorn photography.
One of the most stunning Matterhorn shots is its reflection in the crystal-clear waters of Riffelsee Lake.
Furthermore, for the best results, visit early in the morning when the lake is still, and the wind hasn’t disturbed the surface. A wide-angle lens will help you capture the full grandeur of the scene.
Most tourists photograph the Matterhorn during the day, but the best light comes at sunrise and sunset when the peak glows a fiery orange.
Known as the Alpenglow effect, this magical moment lasts just a few minutes, so set up your camera in advance at Gornergrat or Riffelsee.
Instead of a standard landscape shot, capture the Matterhorn from the window of a Gornergrat train or a cable car. The movement adds a sense of adventure, and framing the mountain inside the window creates a unique storytelling perspective.
For the ultimate Matterhorn shot from the sky, consider a paragliding experience over Zermatt. You’ll capture angles and perspectives most travelers never see, making for unique images.
While discovering the best ways to see the Matterhorn, it’s also crucial to prioritize safety when exploring this iconic mountain. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:
The weather in the Swiss Alps changes quickly, and a clear day can turn into a storm with low visibility within hours. Check forecasts and local conditions before setting out, whether hiking or taking a cable car.
Even in summer, temperatures can drop below freezing at higher altitudes. Wear layers, including a waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat. Proper hiking boots are essential if you plan to explore on foot.
Cell signals in the high alpine areas can be weak, so download offline maps before heading out. A fully charged phone and a portable battery pack can be lifesavers in an emergency.
Many mountain restaurants and huts along hiking trails do not accept credit cards. Furthermore, always carry some Swiss francs for food, drinks, or emergency purchases.
If you’re heading out for a long hike or solo adventure, inform your hotel, a friend, or a guide service about your planned route and expected return time. If something happens, this can help search teams find you faster.
Waking up at 5 am was hard, but I knew it would be amazing. I grabbed a thermos of coffee and went to Riffelsee, a small lake famous for reflecting the Matterhorn. I got there just as the first light of the day hit the mountain, making it look pink and gold. The water was so calm that it looked like a perfect mirror. Enjoying the beautiful Swiss Alps alone was a quiet, peaceful moment.
I was hiking the Five Lakes Walk when I accidentally took a wrong turn. My phone had no signal, and I started to feel scared. But then I saw a beautiful, quiet view of the Matterhorn, with no one around, just the mountain and me. I took a deep breath, enjoyed the peace, and after a while, I found my way back. Sometimes, getting lost can lead to the best surprises.
I had heard about the Gornergrat Bahn, but nothing could have prepared me for the experience. As the train went higher, the Matterhorn slowly got bigger and bigger with every twist and turn. Everyone on the train—locals, tourists, kids—stared out the window in amazement. We were all enjoying the moment, watching one of the world’s most famous mountains come into view.
Zermatt offers some of the most fantastic mountain views in the world — and no matter how many times you see the Matterhorn, it always feels special.
Additionally, before you do anything around the Matterhorn in Switzerland, check the weather, the season, and fitness level. If you’re not experienced in hiking or skiing, getting advice from local experts is a good idea to stay safe and have a great time.
Planning your trip to Zermatt? Start with these 10 best ways to see the Matterhorn in Zermatt, and you’ll understand why the Matterhorn has amazed travelers, climbers, and photographers for so long.
The Matterhorn is famous for its striking, pyramid-like shape and towering height of 4,478 meters. Its iconic profile makes it one of the most photographed mountains in the world.
Climbing the Matterhorn is not recommended for beginners due to its technical difficulty and dangerous conditions. Instead, enjoying the mountain from scenic viewpoints or guided hikes is best.
Yes, buses are free in Zermatt if you have a lift pass or ticket for the leading cable cars or trains, such as Gornergrat or the Matterhorn Glacier Express gondola. All journeys are also free for season and Swiss Travel Pass holders.
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