Things to do in Zermatt for Non-Skiers

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Travel Tips For Visiting Zermatt

Zermatt, Switzerland, is one of the top luxury destinations in Europe. While skiing in Zermatt is one of the main draws of visiting this beautiful Alpine village, there are still plenty of other things to do in Zermatt for non-skiers. In this article, you are going to be introduced to all the best things to do in Zermatt away from the slopes, including visiting Europe’s highest cable car station and taking a ride on Europe’s highest open-cog railway.

This list has been tailored to include wheelchair friendly activities and accessible tourist attractions in Zermatt, Switzerland. Yes, there are even things to do in Zermatt in winter for non-skiers. Interested in learning about all the magical things to do for non-skiers in Zermatt? You’ve come to the right place! Whether Zermatt is your only destination or you’re planning a short visit as part of a larger 10-day Switzerland Itinerary, you’re sure to find plenty to do.

Ride the Gornergrat Cog Train Railway 

Famous for being one of the most scenic train rides in the world, the Gornergrat Railway celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2023 and to this day, continues to shuttle eager visitors up and down the mountain. One of the most popular activities in Zermatt, it’s a 33-minute journey from the Zermatt-Gornergrat station in the village to the Gornergrat Station at the summit, where you will be greeted by an extraordinary 360° view of nearly 30 different 4000m peaks!

It is advised to position yourself on the right-hand side of the train as you ascend the mountain, to give you the best possible chance of seeing those famous Matterhorn views through the window. Having the chance to ride the world’s first fully electric cog railway is an amazing experience and certainly one of the best things to do in Zermatt for non-skiers.

Worth noting: All stations along the line (with the exception of Findelbach) offer boarding and alighting assistance for passengers in wheelchairs.

Visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Discover the Matterhorn Glacier Palace

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise really lives up to its name – a snowy paradise at the top of the mountain! All gondolas in Zermatt are wheelchair-friendly, which means you can enjoy the 40-minute ascent from Zermatt Village to the summit of Klein Matterhorn, home to Europe’s highest cable car station at an impressive 3883m above sea level.

The cable car station offers ski access 365 days a year and is also home to one of the lesser-known highlights of Zermatt – the Glacier Palace. The Glacier Palace is a magical underground experience that takes you directly inside the Matterhorn Glacier. An accessible lift takes you 15m below the surface of the glacier, where you will discover intricately carved ice sculptures and get the chance to peer inside glacier crevasses – it really is a winter wonderland below the surface! Click here to get your wheelchair-accessible Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Tickets.

Worth noting: the famous 360° viewing platform at the summit of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is accessed via a lift, but to reach the platform itself there are about 20 steps and, unfortunately, no ramps. It is still an impressive view from the accessible walkway leading up to the actual platform, however.

Marvel at the Matterhorn

Is Zermatt worth visiting? Well, being treated to incredible views of one of the world’s most iconic mountain peaks everywhere you venture in the village certainly adds to the appeal of visiting this amazing Swiss Alpine village. Marveling at the Matterhorn is one of the main reasons to visit Zermatt, regardless of the season, and there are a few different places in the village that offer the best viewpoints.

The first is from the Kirchbrücke bridge in the centre of Zermatt Village; it offers a spectacularly scenic view of the Matterhorn during the day. The second viewpoint is perfect for watching the sun set over the Matterhorn in the evening. The aptly named ‘Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint’ overlooks the entire village at the Northern end of Zermatt, so it is best to grab a taxi to get there. The sun setting over the Matterhorn from the viewpoint is an absolutely magical experience for non-skiers in Zermatt. It will be one of the highlights of your trip for sure!

Visit the Matterhorn Museum

If you enjoy learning more about the places you visit and getting to grips with the history of a destination, then the Matterhorn Museum is a must during your Zermatt trip. One of the most popular things to do in Zermatt, the museum covers everything from early life in Zermatt, how the village became an alpinist’s gold mine, and even has a special exhibit dedicated to the 125th anniversary of the Gornergrat Cog Railway.

Perhaps the most intriguing exhibit in the museum, however, is dedicated to the controversial first ascent of the Matterhorn by Edward Whymper and his team back in 1865. The Museum’s exhibits are exclusively underground, and there is an accessible lift to take you there.

Worth noting: entry to the museum is 12CHF per person, or free with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Eat the Finest Swiss Cheese Fondue

It’s impossible to visit Switzerland without trying one of its most famous exports – the delicious and decadent Swiss Cheese Fondue. This boozy, creamy, and gooey delicacy is produced all over Switzerland, but it’s difficult to imagine a more intimate and perfect setting for your fondue than the cute Alpine backdrop of Zermatt.

Considered the national dish of Switzerland, Cheese fondue is essentially a bowl of melted cheese, usually combined with wine, brandy, or cognac, that is served communally for people to dip bread and accompaniments into. Thankfully, there are many great fondue options in the village, not just at the mountain restaurants on the slopes, so enjoying a Swiss cheese fondue is a perfect treat in Zermatt for non-skiers.

Go Shopping on the Main Street (BahnhofStrasse)

Zermatt is a quaint, picture-perfect village in the Swiss Alps filled with wooden chalets, welcoming restaurants, and lively aprés ski bars. It is also home to a number of adorable, boutique stores, perfect for spending the day browsing and shopping in Zermatt. The main street (Bahnhofstrasse – ‘Train station street’ in English) in Zermatt is where you will find the majority of the boutique stores selling anything from the finest chocolate in Switzerland to high-end ski clothing. It is also a great place to search for the finest examples of European craftsmanship – Swiss watches and Swiss Army Knives. Whatever your heart desires when shopping in Zermatt, the main street can deliver!

Worth noting: the main street is a pedestrian-only cobbled stone street but has accessible pavements on either side, which makes it easier for wheelchair users

Take a Sightseeing Helicopter Tour Around The Matterhorn

The most adventurous activity to undertake as a non-skier in Zermatt is undoubtedly the sightseeing helicopter tour around the Matterhorn. The scenic helicopter flight takes you around the Matterhorn, offering glimpses of the iconic mountain peak from every angle. While viewing the Matterhorn from anywhere is special in itself, there is something truly breathtaking about being able to see this imposing mountain peak from the air. At over 4000m, a sightseeing helicopter tour around the Matterhorn isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it certainly represents one of the most memorable things to do in Zermatt.

Winter Hiking

Year-round, but particularly in winter in Zermatt, hiking is a very popular activity. Depending on your physical abilities, you may want to try one of the easy hiking trails. These two are highly recommended.

Riffelsee: This is a 1.3-mile point-to-point trail near Zermatt, Valais. Considered an easy route, it has an elevation gain of 22 feet. The time it takes to hike the trail from point to point is about 48 minutes. This is a very popular area, so expect to encounter other hikers.

Gorner Gorge: This is an easy, out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 127 feet. It takes an average of 29 minutes to complete. Again, this is a popular area, so expect to encounter other hikers.

Savour Zermatt’s Lively Aprés Ski Scene

Non-skiers in Zermatt can experience the famous Aprés ski scene without having to venture onto the slopes. Zermatt village is home to a number of lively Aprés ski bars that welcome visitors with open arms.

Harry’s Bar, found at the lower end of the village close to the Sunnegga-Rothorn Funicular Station, is arguably the liveliest of them all. Live music and a great atmosphere are guaranteed at Harry’s Bar. Best of all, as a non-skier in Zermatt, you can arrive a little earlier in the afternoon and grab yourself a table before all the skiers flood down from the slopes in the early evening.

Tips for Non-Skiers in Zermatt

Zermatt is an entirely car-free destination – with the exception of electric buses and electric taxis, Zermatt is entirely car-free, meaning all streets are pedestrianized. It also means that the train is the recommended way of arriving in Zermatt.

Consider buying a Swiss Travel Pass – Something to know about the Swiss Travel Pass and Zermatt is that it’s recommended for all non-skiing visitors to Zermatt, as it gives you a 50% discount to major attractions like the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat Cog Railway, on top of giving you free unlimited train access throughout Switzerland.

Avoid the peak skiing periods – December and February are perhaps the busiest months for skiing in Zermatt during winter, and so, to avoid the busier crowds in the town, it is advised to avoid these months. Even if you are travelling with somebody who wants to ski, Zermatt is famous for offering 365 days of snow at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, so they will still be guaranteed great skiing conditions, whenever you choose to visit.

Make restaurant reservations well in advance – Zermatt Village is relatively small, meaning there are lots of tourists trying to eat at the same restaurants. It is recommended to book all reservations in advance to avoid being disappointed. If you just turn up to a restaurant at night, you’re likely to be turned away. Here is a full list of restaurants with wheelchair access in Zermatt.

Where to Stay in Zermatt for Non-Skiers?

Zermatt is home to over a dozen wheelchair-accessible hotels, giving you plenty of options for where to stay in Zermatt as a non-skier. On the slopes, the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat is accessed via the Gornergrat Cog Railway and is a magical place to stay. You are surrounded by mountain peaks, and the rooms on the West side of the hotel even feature unobstructed views of the Matterhorn directly from your room window.

If you’re looking for an accessible hotel in Zermatt village, however, then the Hotel Aristella SwissFlair is the place to be. It is centrally located, giving you easy access to the whole of Zermatt village, and features a really welcoming lounge area with a cozy fireplace. The perfect place to unwind after exploring all the best things to do in Zermatt.

Final Thoughts On Zermatt For Non-Skiers

There we have it, folks, a conclusive round-up of the best things to do in Zermatt for non-skiers. Thankfully, Zermatt, Switzerland, is one of the best ski resorts in Europe for non-skiers, meaning there are plenty of things to keep you occupied away from the slopes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Zermatt as a Non-Skier

Is Zermatt worth visiting if you do not ski?

Absolutely. Non-skiers can ride mountain railways and cable cars, visit the Matterhorn Museum, explore the village, eat fondue, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and join selected winter activities. The Matterhorn remains extremely impressive even when you have no intention of attaching long slippery boards to your feet.

What can non-skiers do in Zermatt?

Popular activities include riding the Gornergrat Railway, visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, exploring the Glacier Palace, shopping along Bahnhofstrasse and walking through the historic village. Visitors can also enjoy spas, mountain restaurants, winter walking routes, helicopter flights and Zermatt’s lively après-ski scene.

How many days do non-skiers need in Zermatt?

Two or three days is enough to experience the village, Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise without rushing. Add another day if you want a spa treatment, a winter walk, or flexibility for poor mountain weather. Clouds do not care how carefully you planned your Matterhorn photographs.

Can non-skiers ride Zermatt’s mountain lifts?

Yes. Pedestrian tickets are available for many mountain railways, funiculars and cable cars, although operating schedules vary by season and weather. Check the Matterhorn app for current lift, trail and transportation information before heading up the mountain.

What is the best mountain excursion for a non-skier?

Gornergrat is an excellent first choice because the cog railway provides a scenic journey and panoramic mountain views without requiring skiing or a strenuous hike. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is more dramatic and reaches a much higher elevation, but it involves several lifts and requires greater awareness of altitude.

Is the Gornergrat Railway worth it for non-skiers?

Yes. The railway provides spectacular views of the Matterhorn and surrounding Alpine peaks during its approximately 33-minute journey from Zermatt. Sit on the right side while ascending for the best chance of seeing the Matterhorn, although the mountain occasionally chooses mystery and hides behind clouds.

Is the Gornergrat Railway wheelchair accessible?

Zermatt, Riffelberg and Gornergrat stations provide features such as level platform access, boarding assistance and accessible toilets. Findelbach is the notable exception and is not recommended for wheelchair passengers. Contact the railway before traveling if you require a boarding lift or specific assistance; current facilities are listed on the official Gornergrat station page.

Is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise accessible to wheelchair users?

Much of the cable-car journey and the main summit building can be navigated using lifts, but not every viewing area is step-free. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, while the highest outdoor viewing platform has steps. Confirm lift operations and the complete accessible route with Zermatt Bergbahnen before purchasing tickets.

Is the Glacier Palace wheelchair accessible?

An elevator descends into the Glacier Palace, allowing many wheelchair users to experience its ice tunnels and sculptures. Conditions inside are cold, damp, and potentially slippery, and parts of the route may be difficult for some mobility devices. Ask staff about current access before descending because ice has little interest in accessibility regulations.

How high is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise sits at 3,883 meters, or approximately 12,740 feet, above sea level. Visitors may experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, or fatigue after ascending rapidly. Move slowly, stay hydrated, and descend if symptoms worsen.

Is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise safe for someone with a chronic illness?

That depends on the condition and how it is affected by altitude, cold, and reduced oxygen. Travelers with heart, lung, blood, or circulation disorders should discuss the excursion with a medical professional before visiting. The CDC’s high-altitude guidance explains potential symptoms and risk factors.

Can you see the Matterhorn from Zermatt village?

Yes. Popular village viewpoints include Kirchbrücke bridge and several locations along the river. The Matterhorn is frequently clearest in the morning, but visibility depends entirely on the weather. Plan mountain excursions early in your stay so you have another opportunity if clouds interfere.

What is the best time of year for non-skiers to visit Zermatt?

December through March offers snowy scenery, winter activities, and the full Alpine-resort atmosphere. June through September is better for hiking, outdoor dining and green mountain landscapes. Some lifts, hotels and restaurants close during the spring and fall shoulder seasons, so check seasonal schedules before booking.

Is Zermatt car-free?

Zermatt does not allow ordinary private vehicles within the village. Electric taxis, electric buses and authorized hotel shuttles provide local transportation. The lack of traffic makes the village pleasant to explore, although “car-free” should not be mistaken for “completely flat.”

How do I reach Zermatt?

Most visitors arrive by train. Travelers driving to the area must leave their car in Täsch, approximately five kilometers from Zermatt, and continue by shuttle train or authorized taxi. The Matterhorn Terminal in Täsch provides accessible parking spaces, toilets, and luggage facilities.

Is the train to Zermatt wheelchair accessible?

Many Swiss railway services and the stations at Täsch and Zermatt provide accessibility features, but assistance may depend on the train and platform. Use the barrier-free filters in the SBB timetable and request assistance in advance when required.

How do non-skiers get around Zermatt?

Central Zermatt can be explored on foot, while electric buses connect several important parts of the village. Electric taxis and hotel shuttles are useful for travelers with limited stamina or luggage. Confirm whether a taxi can accommodate your wheelchair or mobility scooter before it arrives.

Is Zermatt wheelchair accessible?

Zermatt is more accessible than its steep Alpine setting might suggest, but it is not barrier-free. The railway station, several mountain lifts, hotels, restaurants and attractions provide accessible facilities. Snow, ice, hills, cobblestones and older buildings can still create substantial challenges.

Is Bahnhofstrasse wheelchair accessible?

Zermatt’s principal shopping street is pedestrianized and has smoother pavement along portions of the cobbled road. Individual stores and restaurants may still have steps, narrow entrances or crowded interiors. Snowbanks and ice can make the route more difficult during winter.

Is the Matterhorn Museum wheelchair accessible?

The Matterhorn Museum is underground, but an elevator provides access to its exhibition level. Interior pathways are generally manageable, although some reconstructed historic spaces may be tighter than the main route. Contact the museum if doorway width or restroom access is essential.

Can wheelchair users visit mountain restaurants?

Some mountain restaurants provide step-free entrances and accessible toilets, while others can only be reached across snow, gravel, or steep paths. Zermatt Tourism allows visitors to search its mountain restaurant listings for wheelchair-accessible facilities. Confirm the route from the lift station as well as the restaurant itself.

Are Zermatt’s winter hiking trails suitable for non-skiers?

Yes, designated winter walking trails allow non-skiers to enjoy the snowy landscape. Trail conditions, gradients, and grooming vary, so a route labeled “easy” may still be slippery or tiring. Check elevation, distance, and current conditions instead of relying exclusively on the adjective attached to the trail.

Is Gorner Gorge wheelchair accessible?

No. Gorner Gorge contains narrow wooden walkways and numerous steps, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users and potentially difficult for travelers with balance, pain, or joint conditions. Choose a village walk, accessible viewpoint or mountain railway if you need a step-free alternative.

Can non-skiers participate in après-ski?

Of course. Zermatt’s village bars welcome skiers and non-skiers, and nobody checks whether you personally earned your mulled wine through athletic effort. Arrive before the lifts close if you prefer a quieter table, as bars become much busier when skiers return from the mountain.

Do Zermatt restaurants require reservations?

Dinner reservations are highly recommended during the ski season, summer holidays, and weekends. Zermatt is a small village with a large number of hungry visitors, and popular fondue restaurants can fill quickly. Confirm wheelchair access and accessible restroom availability when booking.

Is a Swiss Travel Pass worth it for Zermatt?

It may be worthwhile if Zermatt is part of a longer journey involving several Swiss train trips. The pass generally provides transportation coverage or discounts rather than free admission to every mountain excursion. Compare its current benefits with individual rail and lift prices before purchasing.

Is Zermatt expensive for non-skiers?

Yes. Accommodation, restaurants, and mountain transportation can make Zermatt an expensive destination even without purchasing ski equipment or lift passes for the slopes. Booking early, staying in Täsch and choosing only one major mountain excursion can reduce costs.

Where should non-skiers stay in Zermatt?

A hotel near the railway station or central Bahnhofstrasse provides convenient access to shops, restaurants and transportation. Visitors with limited mobility should consider the gradient between the hotel and village center because a property described as “close” may be located directly uphill. Confirm the entrance, elevator, bathroom layout, and shuttle accessibility before booking.

Can I stay in Täsch instead of Zermatt?

Yes. Täsch is usually less expensive and connects to Zermatt by frequent shuttle trains. The tradeoff is that you must travel back and forth each day, which can be inconvenient if you want to enjoy early mornings or late dinners in the village.

How can I make Zermatt easier with a chronic illness?

Plan one major mountain excursion per day and leave time for rest after returning to the village. Use electric taxis when hills, cold, or snow worsen your symptoms, and avoid scheduling high-altitude attractions immediately after a tiring travel day. A spa afternoon is not abandoning the itinerary; it is participating in a respected Alpine tradition.

What should non-skiers wear in Zermatt during winter?

Wear warm layers, a waterproof outer layer, gloves, a hat, and boots with reliable traction. Temperatures can differ substantially between the village and mountain stations. Sunglasses and sunscreen remain important because snow reflects sunlight with almost theatrical enthusiasm.

Are there things to do in Zermatt during bad weather?