Live Your Best Lives
The Matterhorn is located on the border between Switzerland and Italy. It is a symbol of pride for Switzerland. It frequently appears in various Swiss scenery photos and is also printed on Swiss triangle chocolate, so tourists also call it the Chocolate Peak.
The Matterhorn is considered a difficult challenge by many climbers due to its extremely steep and rugged terrain. It is the last major mountain in the Alps to be conquered.
Suitable for all seasons
There are two routes up the mountain:
(1) Interlaken - Lauterbrunnen - Wengen - Kleine Scheidegg - Top of Europe.
(2): Interlaken - Grindelwald - Kleine Scheidegg - Top of Europe
free
All day
The Matterhorn is one of the most famous mountains in the world, known for its distinctive pyramidal shape. It has been a symbol of the Swiss Alps and a major draw for mountaineers since its first ascent in 1865. The mountain's peak stands at 4,478 meters and is located on the border between Switzerland and Italy.
The Matterhorn is located near Zermatt in the Swiss Alps. Zermatt is a car-free town accessible by train from major Swiss cities like Zurich or Geneva. Once in Zermatt, you can take the Gornergrat Railway or cable cars to reach the mountain base and nearby hiking routes.
The Matterhorn is a year-round destination, with the best times to visit being from late spring to early autumn (May to October) for hiking and sightseeing. Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The mountain can be visited all day, with most attractions open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Tickets for the cable cars and the Gornergrat Railway vary depending on the route and class of service. Prices for a round trip from Zermatt to Gornergrat start at around CHF 100. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station in Zermatt.
It is recommended to book tickets for cable cars and the Gornergrat Railway in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer and winter). Booking 1-2 weeks ahead is ideal to ensure availability and avoid long lines.
Exploring the Matterhorn area can take anywhere from half a day to a full day depending on your activities. A visit to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or Gornergrat can take 3-4 hours, while hiking or skiing can extend your visit to a full day or more.
The must-see highlights include the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views, and the Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt. Hiking trails around the mountain, such as the 5-Lakes Walk, also offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Guided tours are available in Zermatt and around the Matterhorn, with tours in English, German, French, and Italian. Audio guides are available for the Gornergrat Railway and at the Matterhorn Museum in multiple languages.
The Gornergrat Railway offers some of the best viewpoints of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise also provides excellent photo opportunities with panoramic views of the Alps. The 5-Lakes Hike offers stunning reflections of the Matterhorn in clear mountain lakes.
A typical itinerary could start with a scenic train ride from Zermatt to the Gornergrat Railway, followed by a visit to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. In the afternoon, consider hiking the 5-Lakes Trail or visiting the Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt.
Night visits are available, and some areas like the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offer evening access. During certain times of the year, there are special events like light shows and cultural performances in the area. Check local schedules for availability.
The Matterhorn attracts visitors year-round, with peak crowds during summer (July-August) and winter (December-February) for skiing. The least crowded times are early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays or the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).
Facilities at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat include restaurants, rest areas, toilets, and shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Zermatt also offers a range of cafes and restaurants for food and water.
The cable cars and Gornergrat Railway are accessible for most visitors, including elderly and disabled individuals. However, some of the hiking trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise has facilities for all visitors.
Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in Zermatt and at most attractions around the Matterhorn. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops or rural areas that may not accept cards.
There are numerous dining options in Zermatt, ranging from local Swiss cuisine to international options. Restaurants like The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Restaurant offer meals with breathtaking views, while the Gornergrat area has a restaurant at the top of the mountain.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available in Zermatt, especially at the larger hotels and restaurants. Traditional Swiss dishes often have vegetarian versions, and many places cater to diverse dietary preferences.
Hotels in Zermatt offer a wide range of options, from luxury resorts to budget accommodations. Some notable hotels include the Hotel Monte Rosa, Zermatt Resort, and Hotel Matterhorn Focus, all offering easy access to the Matterhorn.
Nearby attractions include the Gornergrat Railway, the Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt, and the nearby mountain peaks such as the Breithorn. A visit to the nearby village of Täsch is also an easy day trip from Zermatt.
Souvenir shops in Zermatt sell Swiss watches, chocolate, local cheese, and Matterhorn-themed memorabilia such as miniature models of the mountain, postcards, and hiking gear.
From Zermatt, you can take the Glacier Express for scenic train travel to other Swiss destinations, or use regular trains to reach nearby cities like Geneva or Zurich. Taxis or car rentals are available for more personalized travel.
