Curator’s statement
Every time I go to Zermatt, I tell myself I will try somewhere new next year, and yet I always come back. There is just something about arriving in this little car-free village with the Matterhorn looming over everything that feels instantly magical. The standard is so high that there is no bad choice when it comes to hotels. The real question is whether you want to be right in town, on a resort with ski-in ski-out convenience, or tucked away in the mountains where it feels like your own private world. For me, Zermatt is where the holidays feel exactly the way they should: snowy, cozy, and a little bit magical.
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Things to do in Zermatt
Ski the Matterhorn glacier paradise
You will not find a more snow-sure mountain in December. The best part is skiing into Italy for a bowl of pasta at lunch, then gliding back into Switzerland by afternoon.Hire a family ski instructor
If you have skiers at different levels, hire an instructor who knows the mountain inside and out. They will improve everyone’s technique, keep your group together, and make sure you get to Italy in time for that perfect, relaxed lunch.Ride the Gornergrat Railway
This little cogwheel train winds up to 3,000 meters and gives you views of the Matterhorn that will stop you in your tracks. I never skip it, even if I am not skiing.Lunch at the mountain huts
This is the real Zermatt sport. Rösti, fondue, or handmade pasta taste even better when you are sitting on a sunny terrace with the Matterhorn watching over you. There are plenty of places that both skiers and non skiers can get to.Après-ski in the village
Chic Swiss rather than rowdy. Think Champagne bars, cozy lounges, and wood-beamed spots where you can swap your ski boots for slippers.Spa afternoons
The hotel spas in Zermatt are exceptional. The hot tubs are not as scalding as in the United States, which makes them even more relaxing, and the saunas are the perfect way to warm up after a cold morning on the slopes.Ice skating in the town square
Festive, family-friendly, and right in the heart of the village.Wandering the car-free streets
There is something magical about walking with no cars around, just the sound of snow under your boots and the smell of bakeries in the air.
Places to eat & drink in Zermatt
Casa Mia
A cozy, family-run spot where I go for Italian-inspired comfort food. The pizza is delicious and always a hit with kids, which makes it an easy family favorite after a long ski day.da Giuseppe
My go-to for handmade pasta and a warm, welcoming vibe. It feels like a local secret.Say Cheese
Super fun for kids or adults, and the fondue and raclette are essential Zermatt experiences. Just make sure not to wear anything you do not want smelling like melted cheese for the rest of your tripChez Vrony
The ultimate mountain hut. Organic ingredients, stylish interiors, and a sunny terrace with the Matterhorn front and center.Findlerhof
Rustic, authentic, and delicious. Their rösti with a view of the peaks is my idea of heaven.Potato
A surprising standout in a land of fondue. This restaurant offers an unbelievable tasting menu that goes far beyond its humble name. This is my favorite date night spot.
Need to know
The magic of Zermatt starts before you even arrive. The village is car-free, so you take the train up from Visp and watch the mountains open up around you. Lift tickets are much more affordable than in the United States, and ski school is also reasonably priced. I like to sign my son up for three-hour private lessons starting at 12:30 so we do not have to fight jet lag in the mornings, and he came away learning so much in just one week. Kids under nine ski free, which makes family trips even more appealing. My advice is to spend your money on the amazing food and a beautiful hotel instead of overpaying for lift tickets and lessons. Most importantly, make reservations for all meals since Zermatt books up quickly during the holidays. Pack for both skiing and après-ski, with warm layers for the slopes and something cozy but polished for evenings in town.
Travel Advisor
Kate Van Dell
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Zermatt page.