48 Hours in Zermatt: Perfect Itinerary for Alpine Bliss
Let’s prepare for a two-day escape to Zermatt, Switzerland, where alpine splendor meets charming town life. In our Switzerland getaway, we come to Zermatt from Interlaken. There are many possible alternative paths to here, but visiting Zermatt, a car-free village, is a must-do! We have the perfect planned two-day itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time in this breathtaking mountain resort. Discover iconic landmarks, dine at delectable eateries, and immerse yourself in the wonder of the Swiss Alps.
Preview
Day 1: Arrival to Zermatt, Gornergrat Exploration, and Sunset at Le Petit Village at Mürini
Day 1: Arrival to Zermatt, Gornergrat Exploration, and Sunset at Le Petit Village at Mürini
Arrival
If you are departing from Interlaken like we did, we recommend an early morning train to maximize your time. This is a 2.5-hour train ride through scenic beauty. Be sure to secure your train tickets in advance.
Food/Nourishments
Once checked into your accommodations, it’s time for a brunch/lunch break. Check out the cafes for Swiss cafes and coffee. Popular ones include Bakerei Cafe Fuchs (Bahnhofstrasse), Petit Royal, and Fuchs Bakery. Or pick a more formal sit-down restaurants if your belly desires.
Gornergrat Time
After lunch, we set off on an unforgettable journey to the Gornergrat!
Take the Gornergrat Railway (about CHF 55 roundtrip per person with Swiss Half Fare Card, check online for updated fares) for awe-inspiring views of the Matterhorn! Pro tip-be sure to sit on the right side of the train for the best views going up.
It is absolutely breathtaking! Once at Gornergrat be sure to spend time exploring:
Gorner Glacier: Located just after leaving the train station.
Gornergrat Viewpoints: Walk toward 2100 Kulmhotel, visit the highest viewing platform at 3131 meters, and make use of free telescopes.
360 Scenic Loop at Gornergrat: Enjoy a quick, half-kilometer, 20-minute hiking loop (you're already on the loop at this point).
Matterhorn Photo Point: Capture the Matterhorn's beauty from a specially designed frame.
Zooom the Matterhorn: Immerse yourself in a virtual reality flying adventure.
Gornergrat Chapel: Visit this charming mountain chapel.
Gornergrat Observatory: Explore the highest observatory in Europe.
Meet the Sheep
Shopping: Discover souvenirs and Swiss products.
Views from Riffelalp and Riffelberg and a possible hike
Along back down you can make stops at Riffelalp and Riffelberg for hikes. Even if you don’t complete the whole hike, be sure to take a stop and admire the mountains around you and hop on the next train back down. If you are looking for a simple scenic hike from Gornergrat to Riffelberg or Rotenboden (1.25 miles, 40 minutes downhill). Don't forget to check the train schedule for your return journey!
Be sure to rest up because we have the ultimate sunset activity and hike planned. Have dinner at all the local spots.
Sunset, Golden Horn Matterhorn form Le Petit Village at Mürini
Le Petit Village à Mürini is a popular viewpoint in Zermatt known for its stunning views of the Matterhorn.
To get to this viewpoint from the center of Zermatt, follow these steps:
Start at Zermatt's Bahnhofstrasse: Most likely, you will begin your journey from the main street in Zermatt, Bahnhofstrasse, which is the central hub of the town.
Walk Towards the South: From Bahnhofstrasse, head south in the direction of the Matterhorn. You'll be walking away from the Zermatt train station.
Cross the Matter Vispa River: Follow the signs towards "Le Petit Village" or "Le Petit Mürini." You'll need to cross the Matter Vispa River to reach the viewpoint.
Hike or Take the Funicular: Depending on your preference and the time of year, you can either hike to the viewpoint or take the Sunnegga funicular railway, which is a convenient option.
Hiking (Approximately 20-30 minutes): If you prefer hiking, there is a scenic trail that leads to Sunnegga and Le Petit Village. The trail is well-marked, filled with stairs, and optimal break opportunities. You'll enjoy picturesque views along the way!
Funicular (Approximately 5 minutes): Alternatively, you can take the Sunnegga funicular railway, which departs from the Zermatt train station and brings you to the Sunnegga station. From there, it's a short walk to Le Petit Village. The funicular is especially convenient if you want to save time and energy. If you can do the hike though it is definitely worth it!
Arriving at Le Petit Village: Whether you hiked or took the funicular, you'll eventually arrive at Le Petit Village à Mürini. This charming location offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, and it's a fantastic spot to enjoy sunrise or sunset.
As always, be sure to check the funicular schedule, as it may vary depending on the time of year. Additionally, it's a good idea to dress warmly, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains, even during the summer months.
Enjoy the stunning vistas once you reach Le Petit Village! We recommend carrying some snacks/drinks with you to enjoy your evening.
Day 2: Klein Matterhorn Adventure and Zermatt Exploration
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
Stroll through Zermatt's city center, taking in the charm of the old town and sampling the delights of cafes along the Matter Vispa River.
Klein Matterhorn
Embark on a thrilling adventure to Klein Matterhorn, also known as the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, a 3.5-hour experience. Tickets usually cost CHF 54.50 with half off ( be sure to check for updated hours/fares online). Commence your journey from Zermatt train station to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car station, a pleasant 10-minute walk.
As your adventure winds down, savor your last moments in Zermatt.
Explore more of the town, sample different culinary delights, and relish the town's cozy ambiance. With this well-balanced two-day itinerary, you'll fully experience the beauty of Zermatt, its vibrant culture, and its delectable cuisine. Keep an eye on the local train schedule to make the most of your adventure, and get ready to create cherished memories in this Alpine paradise.
Modification/tips:
If time allows, continue your Swiss journey. Join us on our next stop in Montreux. Or check out our other posts for inspiration in your next Swiss getaway!
Pack Light or Choose Accommodations Wisely- Since Montreux is a beautiful car-free village, packing light is essential. Ensure your luggage is manageable or select accommodations close to the city center to minimize walking distances. This will help you enjoy your stay without the hassle of carrying heavy bags.
Plan Your Train and Funicular Rides in Advance- To optimize your time and make the most of your Zermatt experience, it's crucial to check the schedules for trains and funiculars ahead of time. Efficient planning will ensure you don't miss out on any must-see attractions and viewpoints.
Reserve Dining Experiences Ahead of Time- Switzerland is renowned for its culinary delights, so don't miss the chance to savor Swiss delicacies. To guarantee a delightful dining experience, check restaurant hours and consider making reservations in advance. This ensures you can relish the local cuisine without any hiccups.
Pack Warm Clothes, Even in Summer- Zermatt, being a mountain resort, can experience cooler evenings even during the summer months. It's advisable to pack some warm clothing, such as a light jacket or sweater, to stay comfortable when temperatures drop in the evenings or at higher altitudes. This preparation will ensure you're ready for any weather surprises during your visit!
Be sure to buy a half-fare card that can be used all across Switzerland (will save you tons of money on activities and transportation).
If you want to embark on our exhilarating 10-day adventure across Switzerland- Check out the linked blog posts for detailed itineraries and insights. Our journey kicked off in Zurich, where we enjoyed a 2-night stay and took a picturesque day trip to Lucerne. Next, we hopped on a train to Interlaken, spending a thrilling 4 days exploring the area and a quick getaway to Bern. Zermatt was our next stop for an unforgettable overnight stay, followed by a breathtaking train ride to Montreux, where we indulged in a delightful two-night stay. Our grand finale was in Geneva, which we explored for a day before concluding our journey with a flight back home. Feel free to tailor your time in each city to suit your preferences! Let the adventure begin! 🚂✈️🇨🇭
Thank you for reading!!