When you’re visiting Switzerland, chances are, you’ll probably want to pass through the amazing town of Zermatt in the canton of Valais, home to the world-famous Matterhorn. But you’re not sure if you can see all that it has to offer in only one day…

Good news! Zermatt is the perfect one-day excursion. I spent a full day there, exploring Zermatt to the max and here’s how you can too!

Starting your day – How to get to Zermatt

Getting to Zermatt is pretty straight forward. You get the SBB train to Visp and from there you take a red train called the Matterhorn Bahn, which will take you all the way through the mountains up to Zermatt!

The ride is about an hour but you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views the entire time as you enter the Zermatt valley.

P.S. This train is included in your day pass so no need to worry about buying tickets.

Your first view of the Matterhorn

After arriving at the main station, head directly to the Kirchbrücke where you’ll get your first view of the Matterhorn (if it’s a clear and sunny day). Standing on the bridge, you will be able to get the perfect shot of the Matter Vispa river with the Matterhorn in the background and of the other surrounding mountains.

You can then walk through the town full of typical chalets until you arrive at the beginning of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise gondola station. On your right, you will find a pathway called Zmuttweg and that’s where the next hike starts.

Hike to a small town – Zum See

This hike is only about 50 minutes one way, which is the perfect amount of time for a small hike. On the way up, the Matterhorn will be your main view the entire time, so make sure to keep your camera nearby.

You’ll then arrive at a small block of chalets. Which includes a café and a restaurant. Take a rest here, relax and enjoy the view as you sip on a hot beverage. After that, you can walk around and head back down the way you came from.

Gornergrat Bahn – One of the most beautiful train rides in Switzerland.

Start off the afternoon by taking the Gornergrat Bahn. This train ride is definitely one of the most beautiful in Switzerland since you’ll be surrounded by mountains and get an amazing view of the Matterhorn during the whole train ride!

The ticket costs 40 CHF two-way but it is a one in a lifetime experience and a must while in Zermatt!

My tip: Make sure to sit on the right side of the train (when going up) to get the best view of Zermatt and the Matterhorn and don’t be afraid to open the windows to get the perfect shot.

Once you arrive at the top, a 360° panoramic view of the Alps will be waiting for you. Can you spot the Matterhorn on the photo below amongst all the other snowy mountains?

Don’t forget to take that cliché shot…

Did you know that the summit of the Matterhorn is on the package of the well-known Toblerone chocolate? Get yourself a bar at the souvenir shop and take that cliché shot! You even get to eat it after, bonus!!

Take a break at the summit

Enjoy a typical Swiss hot chocolate and a snack as you sit on the terrace at 3000 meters altitude surrounded by a breathtaking view of the mountains.

The best viewpoint for sunset

Do you want to get the best view on the whole town of Zermatt with the Matterhorn in the background? Then I’ve got the perfect spot for you. It’s called the “Zermatt Viewpoint” and is only a 15 minute walk away from the main train station. Get the perfect Instagram shot as you enjoy a colourful sunset!

And there you have it! The Guide on the to spend a day in Zermatt. Of course, spending more than one day there is definitely a good idea but if you are just doing a day trip then this guide is for you!

What are you waiting for? Share this blog post, grab your camera and hop on the next train to Zermatt!