Live Your Best Lives
The Matterhorn Museum is a fascinating destination for those interested in the history of mountaineering and the Matterhorn mountain. Recommended activities include exploring the museum's extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits about the first ascents of the Matterhorn, as well as learning about the mountain's geology and the local alpine culture. Don't miss the historical film screenings and the opportunity to see rare equipment used by early climbers.
The Matterhorn Museum is located in Zermatt, Switzerland, beneath the town square. The museum features a video room that loops the story of the mid-19th-century summit race between Italian climber Carrel and English climber Whymper. The museum is located next to the church and admission is free with the Swiss Pass. It's well worth a visit, as the information on the early climbers' routes, equipment, and backgrounds is fascinating and truly enriching.
Temperate maritime climate, suitable for all seasons
Zermatt, Matterhorn, 1-3 hours
Adults: 10 francs
Students: 8 francs
Children aged 10-16: 5 francs
Children under 10: Free
11:00-18:00 (December-September); 14:00-18:00 (October); Closed in November
The Matterhorn Museum, located in Zermatt, Switzerland, is dedicated to the history and culture surrounding the Matterhorn, one of the most famous and challenging mountains in the world. The museum tells the story of the mountain’s first ascent in 1865, the tragic loss of climbers, and the impact it had on mountaineering. It also explores the evolution of Zermatt from a small alpine village to a world-renowned resort town.
The Matterhorn Museum is located in Zermatt, Switzerland. Zermatt is a car-free town, so the best way to get there is by train. The Zermatt train station is well connected by trains from major Swiss cities, including Geneva and Zurich. Once in Zermatt, the museum is within walking distance from the station.
The Matterhorn Museum is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with shorter hours in the off-season. The best times to visit are during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when it’s less crowded, though the museum is a popular stop year-round.
The entrance fee is approximately CHF 10 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the museum’s entrance, and it is also possible to buy them online through the museum's website for convenience, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, though it is recommended during peak seasons (summer and winter holidays) to avoid waiting in line. Booking a few days ahead should be sufficient.
On average, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the museum, depending on how much time you spend viewing the exhibits and reading the information provided. If you're particularly interested in mountaineering history, you may want to allocate more time.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, German, and French. Audio guides in various languages can also be rented at the entrance for a more immersive experience.
The museum itself offers great indoor photography opportunities, especially in the areas displaying early mountaineering gear. For outdoor photography, nearby locations such as Gornergrat or the Schwarzsee provide breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, ideal for capturing its iconic shape.
Start by exploring the lower level, which focuses on the history of the first ascent and the expeditions that followed. Then, move upstairs to learn about the development of mountaineering and the environmental impact of tourism in the Alps. End your visit with a look at the interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.
Night visits or light shows are not currently offered at the Matterhorn Museum. However, special tours are available, focusing on the history of climbing expeditions or the geology of the Matterhorn, and these can be arranged in advance.
The museum can get crowded during the high season, especially in summer and winter when Zermatt attracts many tourists. The least crowded times are in the early mornings on weekdays, particularly in the spring or autumn when fewer tourists visit the area.
The museum has basic facilities, including toilets and a small gift shop selling mountaineering-themed souvenirs and books. There are no food or water services inside, but plenty of cafes and restaurants are nearby in Zermatt.
The museum is accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators to reach different floors. Children will find the exhibits engaging, especially those related to climbing history and the interactive multimedia displays.
Both credit cards and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay) are widely accepted at the Matterhorn Museum. However, it's a good idea to carry some Swiss Francs in cash for smaller purchases or if you visit nearby shops.
Many of the restaurants around Zermatt offer vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, vegetable-based dishes, and vegan-friendly fondue. Halal food options may be available at select restaurants in the town.
Yes, souvenir shops are available inside the museum and in the nearby area. Popular souvenirs include mountaineering-themed items, Swiss watches, postcards, and traditional Swiss crafts like wooden figurines and cowbells.
