How to Spend 3 Unforgettable Days in Zermatt, Switzerland During Winter

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is more than just a skier’s paradise; it’s a haven for those seeking the beauty and adventure of the mountains even without hitting the slopes. In this guide, I’ll uncover how to spend three unforgettable days in Zermatt, exploring its scenic landscapes, rich culture, and culinary delights. From the iconic Matterhorn views to the charm of its car-free streets, get ready to discover the magic of Zermatt beyond the ski runs. Let’s make some memories that will last a lifetime in Zermatt 🙂

Day 1

I always start my first days in a new city just strolling around town, exploring my hotel (we stayed at Beausite Hotel) and taking it all in. It’s likely that you had a long journey in so take it slow, no rush we still have 2 full days of fun ahead. Here are some of my recommendations for your first day in Zermatt:

Day 1 Food:

• Restaurant Chez Max Julen – We ate dinner here on our first night. From the cozy rustic interior, to the fire wood cooked meats, this place was hands down our favorite meal in Zermatt. We didn’t make reservations in advance, but you can if you so please.
• Le Chalet da Giuseppe – Italian restaurant right on the water
• Restaurant Chez Heini – Rustic Swiss cuisine restaurant (takes reservations but closed on Mondays)

Day 1 Activities:

• Skiing or snowboarding is always an option 😉
• Matterhorn Museum: Learn about the history of Zermatt and the first ascent of the Matterhorn through fascinating exhibits. Good if you’re looking for an indoor activity.
• Honestly walking around Zermatt/hanging out at your hotel will be more than enough to do on your first day

Day 2

Day 2 in Zermatt will be focused on exploring more of the town and the Swiss Alps. Whether that be by skiing or by foot and train, you are in for an adventure. On this day, we spent the morning walking around the town of Zermatt, shopping and we ventured to Chez Vrony by foot. This is a ski in/ski out restaurant with some of the best views of the Matterhorn. By taking the Sunnega Mountain railway and walking “10 minutes downhill” you will arrive at Chez Vrony. I say “10 minutes” because it certainly did not take us 10 minutes.. it took longer! With slippery ice and snow of a Zermatt winter, I would recommend giving yourself at least 30-45 minutes to walk to Chez Vrony from the Sunnega railway to account for the hike and picture taking.

Here are some more recommendations for Day 2 in Zermatt

Day 2 Food:

• Chez Vrony (mentioned above) – Make reservations as far in advance as you can and prepare to walk.
• Adler Hitta – I wish we had another day to come here. It’s near Chez Vrony and also has amazing views of the Matterhorn. Another place to make reservations as far in advance as possible.
• Elise’s Wine & Champagne Bar – We had a drinks and appetizer here. We weren’t too hungry for dinner after spending all day at Chez Vrony but it has a nice cozy atmosphere, good for drinks
• Petit Royal Cafe – We stopped here for a mid afternoon coffee. They have amazing pastries and so many different kinds of lattes, cappuccinos, you name it.

Day 2 Activities:

• Go on hike to one of the above restaurants (Chez Vrony or Adler Hitta), not only will you get amazing views everywhere you turn but the food is an A+
• Snowshoe trails walk – we didn’t get a chance to do this but it looked like so much fun
• Go to CERVO Mountain Resort for Apres Ski (even if you didn’t ski haha) with live music and you are promised good time

Day 3

Day 3 in Zermatt might have been my favorite day. Day 3 we decided to ride the Matterhorn Gornergrat Bahn for panoramic views of the Matterhorn. We also had reservations at Iglu Dorf which required us to take this train and hike downhill. After our reservation at Iglu Dorf we took slides back down towards Zermatt and it was blast! I highly recommend sledding (or sledging) while you are in Zermatt.

Day 3 Food:

• Iglu Dorf – Make reservation to Iglu Dorf and have a typical Swiss fondue
• Spycher – We came here for dinner, very solid place 7.5/10
• L’Atelier Grandsire – If you fancy fine dining, this is the place
• Harry’s Ski Bar – If you haven’t had enough of Apres Ski by Day 3, check out Harry’s a very popular bar

Day 3 Activities:

• Ride the Gornergrat Bahn all the way up to the top for more amazing views of the Matterhorn & Riffelap
• Visit Iglu Dorf – a hotel inside of an Igloo this place is so unique. I will say the hike down is kinda crazy. So much snow and ice and it is a steep downhill (uphill on the way back). Be prepared to
• Go sledding starting at Rotenboden and ride down towards Zermatt. Depending on your train ticket you can go up and down as many times as you want.

Conclusion

3 days in Zermatt is the perfect amount of time to take it easy and explore. Of course skiing and snowboarding are always an option when coming to the Swiss Alps and it is a huge part of most itineraries. If you don’t ski, don’t let that stop you from visiting one of the most beautiful picturesque places in the world (and the most photographed mountain in the world!). I centered this guide for my non-skier travelers who still want to experience the magic of Zermatt Switzerland. Here you can find my full 7 day Switzerland itinerary. I hope you found some value in this guide, wherever your travels may take you, continue to live life leisurelee <3