Zermatt Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Zermatt
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Zermatt, nestled in the heart of Valais, Switzerland, where your family can wake up to the breathtaking sight of the Matterhorn rising above a charming alpine village. Imagine strolling together through car-free streets, the air crisp and clear, as you explore cozy bakeries and traditional Swiss chalets. Zermatt invites families to slow down and savor the moment, whether you’re sharing hot chocolate in a sunlit café or wandering the lively Bahnhofstrasse lined with shops and local treats.
Adventure awaits around every corner in Zermatt. Spend your days exploring the sparkling waters of Leisee Lake, perfect for picnics, swimming, and paddleboarding with the kids. In summer, the Gornergrat Railway offers panoramic rides up the mountainside, where you can hike scenic trails or simply gaze at the snow-capped peaks. Winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, with gentle ski slopes and ice skating rinks designed for family fun.
Valais is a year-round playground for families. Enjoy easy bike paths through wildflower meadows or take a horse-drawn carriage ride at dusk. Local guides offer glacier tours and nature walks, making every day an opportunity for discovery. Let Zermatt’s warm hospitality and stunning mountain scenery create lasting memories for your family’s next Swiss adventure.
Nearby cities
Täsch
Discover Täsch in Valais, Switzerland—where your family can hike wildflower trails, picnic by crystal streams, and play together in fresh alpine air.
Randa
Bring your family to Randa in Valais, Switzerland for mountain hikes, wildflower meadows, and playgrounds with glacier views—outdoor fun for all ages awaits!
Zinal
Bring your family to Zinal in Val d’Anniviers, Switzerland for alpine hikes, sparkling lakes, and playgrounds—where mountain air and adventure fill every day.
Saas-Fee
Discover Saas-Fee in Valais, Switzerland—where your family can hike sunlit trails, play in wildflower meadows, and share laughter by sparkling mountain streams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Zermatt has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Zermatt, Switzerland, is a gateway to breathtaking natural wonders, with the iconic Matterhorn dominating the skyline and offering a dramatic backdrop for visitors. The Gornergrat railway ascends to a panoramic viewpoint where glaciers and more than twenty 4,000-meter peaks unfold in a mesmerizing vista. The serene beauty of the Stellisee Lake, reflecting the Matterhorn’s sharp silhouette, is unforgettable, while the lush landscapes of the Findel Valley invite tranquil hikes among alpine wildflowers and pristine streams.
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In three days in Zermatt, immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, which dominates the skyline and offers unforgettable photo opportunities from spots like Gornergrat and Sunnegga. Explore the charming Bahnhofstrasse, lined with boutiques and alpine restaurants, before discovering the fascinating Matterhorn Museum for insights into local history and mountaineering. Ride the Gornergrat Bahn for panoramic vistas of glaciers, and don’t miss a visit to the Glacier Paradise for Europe’s highest cable car station and year-round snow fun.
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Absolutely, Zermatt offers several pet-friendly rentals that cater to travelers with dogs, including chalets and apartments with fenced yards for safety and convenience. Many of these accommodations are located near the scenic Gornergrat Bahn railway or the Matterhorn Glacier Trail, providing direct access to beautiful walking paths surrounded by breathtaking Alpine views. Your furry companion will love exploring the car-free village and the nearby pine forests, making Zermatt an ideal destination for pet owners.
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For an unforgettable 3-day adventure in Zermatt, start with a scenic ride on the Gornergrat Railway, which offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Explore the charming car-free village center, where you can browse local boutiques and sample Swiss chocolate. Take a cable car up to the Klein Matterhorn for panoramic glacier vistas and visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the region’s mountaineering history. Don’t miss hiking the Five Lakes Walk, where reflections of the Matterhorn shimmer in crystal-clear alpine waters.
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For families seeking calm, shallow water for young children to swim safely in Zermatt, the Leisee lake on Sunnegga is an ideal spot. This picturesque alpine lake features a gently sloping shoreline and designated swimming areas, making it perfect for little ones. Surrounded by stunning views of the Matterhorn and accessible via the Sunnegga funicular, Leisee also offers a playground and picnic areas, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable day for both kids and parents.
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For an unforgettable sledding adventure near Zermatt, head to the Gornergrat area where the Rotenboden to Riffelberg run offers breathtaking Matterhorn views as you race downhill on a thrilling 1.5-kilometer toboggan trail. Families and thrill-seekers alike love this spot for its well-groomed pistes and easy train access via the Gornergrat Bahn. After your ride, enjoy a warm drink at a mountain hut while soaking in the panoramic Alpine scenery unique to the Valais region.
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A reasonable overall budget for a 3-day stay in Zermatt for two adults ranges from CHF 1,000 to CHF 1,800, depending on your accommodation and activity choices. Staying at a mid-range hotel near Bahnhofstrasse, enjoying meals at local restaurants, and taking the Gornergrat Railway for breathtaking Matterhorn views will shape your expenses. Lift passes, entrance to the Matterhorn Museum, and a few café stops are well worth including for a memorable alpine experience.