Welcome to Zermatt, the ultimate destination for adventure seekers! Prepare to be enchanted by Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes, world-class skiing, and the charming alpine village atmosphere.
Situated at the base of the iconic Matterhorn, this car-free town beckons with its unique allure.
While Zermatt is renowned for its winter sports scene, there’s a whole world of summer exploration awaiting you. The surrounding landscape is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering thrilling mountain biking trails and exhilarating climbing experiences. It’s a haven to unleash your inner adventurer and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Now, let’s address the question on everyone’s mind: Where to stay in Zermatt? Fear not. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share insider secrets to help you find the perfect accommodation option that matches your style and budget. Whether you seek the cozy embrace of a traditional chalet, the camaraderie of a budget-friendly hostel, or the indulgence of a luxurious mountain retreat, Zermatt has it all. From the best luxury hotels to a range of budget-friendly accommodations and hostels, there’s something for every traveler amidst the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Let’s embark on a journey filled with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for this extraordinary Swiss destination.
Zermatt awaits, and I’m honored to be your guide on this unforgettable quest!
Looking for a specific place to stay? Cheap hotels or fancy luxury hotels, we have them all. Or do you even consider moving to Switzerland? With Zermatt as a potential destination, you might find yourself falling in love with this picturesque country. These are our top recommendations for places to stay.
Matterhorn Inn | Best Hotel in Zermatt
Located in the center of Täsch, this is one of the best places to stay in Zermatt if you want to be close to everything without paying premium prices. It’s right across from the station with its 24-hour shuttle to Zermatt, and has beautiful balcony rooms and a restaurant on-site for easy meals.
Saxifraga 10 | Best Airbnb in Zermatt
This apartment is ideal if you’re deciding where to stay in Zermatt with kids. Sleeping four guests, it’s tastefully furnished and located right in the town center. It comes with two balconies and enjoys stunning mountain views.
Zermatt Youth Hostel | Best Hostel in Zermatt
This hostel in Zermatt is a good choice if you’re traveling on a budget. It’s located in the center of the town and close to the mountain areas. Guests can choose between private rooms with en-suites as well as shared dorm rooms, great for couples heading to the area.
Zermatt Town
The heart of Zermatt town is fairly small – only about half a mile across and two long – but it packs in loads of attractions for tourists. That’s what makes it the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Zermatt for your first time.
Tasch
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Zermatt on a budget, then try Tasch. Just four miles from the centre of Zermatt, it offers a slightly quieter atmosphere as well as slightly more budget-friendly prices.
Zermatt Resort Area
If you want to be right in the heart of all the skiing in winter or hiking areas in summer, then find yourself a hotel in the Zermatt Resort Area.
Known for its spectacular skiing, Zermatt is a quaint and charming place to stay in Switzerland. There are three main areas where visitors can find the best accommodation options, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions.
If you’re visiting for the first time, you can’t go wrong with staying in Zermatt Town itself. This area is filled with shops and restaurants set up for travelers, and the bus system will ensure that you have an easy time getting out to the slopes.
The second area to look at is Täsch. This is a small town about four miles from the center of Zermatt, and it is connected by an efficient bus system. This is one of the best areas to stay in Zermatt if you’re traveling on a budget.
Finally, the Zermatt Resort Area is the ideal place to be if you’re traveling with kids. It’s situated in the heart of the mountains, close to the best skiing and hiking on offer throughout the year.
Zermatt Neighborhood Guide
Zermatt is simple to navigate, but where you choose to base yourself will likely affect your entire trip. Read on for our top suggestions in more detail…
1. Zermatt Town – Where to Stay in Zermatt for the First Time
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Zermatt Town – Try the Five Lakes Walk and see the mountains reflected in the water.
- BEST Place to Visit in Zermatt Town – Sunnegga for skiing, views and swimming in the meadow surrounded waters of Leisee in summer.
The heart of Zermatt town is fairly small, but packs in loads of attractions for travelers. It’s a great place to stay to get to know the area, ideal for anyone visiting for the first time. There are over 50 restaurants in town – many with Michelin stars – and easy links to the skiing areas.
The main town is hospitable and welcoming, albeit a little expensive. And because the whole area is car-free, it has a quaint feel that only adds to the majesty of the surrounding landscape.
Hotel Walliserhof Zermatt | Best Hotel in Zermatt Town
Just 200m from the center of town, one of my favorite hotels in Zermatt, is in the best area to stay for a convenient holiday. It has unique decor as well as a restaurant overlooking the main shopping street. There’s a spa area with a sauna and hot tub onsite, so you can get a little pampering in during your stay.
Downtown Cozy North View Studio | Best Airbnb in Zermatt Town
Couples and pairs traveling Zermatt should consider this comfortable studio apartment in Zermatt. Spacious and comfortably furnished, it has a balcony at the north end so you can take in the stunning views of the mountains during your stay.
4 Bed Apartment | Best Luxury Airbnb in Zermatt Town
This apartment for four is a great addition to any Zermatt neighborhood guide. It’s right in the center of town while still in a peaceful residential area. In addition, the main shopping street and train station are within five minutes’ walk. Fully furnished and with an open-plan kitchen, it’s very reasonably priced for a group or family visiting Zermatt.
Zermatt Youth Hostel | Best Hostel in Zermatt Town
This hostel is ideal if you want to stay in the heart of the action. It’s located in the center of the town with views of the mountains. Dorm and private rooms are available, making this ideal for couples or solo travelers on a tight budget.
What to See and Do in Zermatt Town:
- Visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the history of Zermatt
- Try some exotic dishes at restaurants like Bazaar by Cervo, Bistro Bar Gornergrat or City.
- Take a tour through Zermatt to find all the best sites.
- Go skiing or snowboarding on the slopes.
- Have a drink at the Brown Cow Snack Bar, Calypso Sportbar or Elsie’s Wine and Champagne Bar.
- Head out of Zermatt to see the tortured stone and pristine waters of Gorner Gorge.
- Take the kids to enjoy some treetop adventures at Forest Fun Park.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Täsch – Where to Stay in Zermatt on a Budget
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Täsch – See how brave you are on the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge.
- BEST Place to Visit in Täsch – The Allalinhorn for an incredible mountaineering experience.
If you’re traveling Switzerland on a budget, then Täsch is the best place to stay. Just four miles from the centre of Zermatt, it offers a slightly quieter atmosphere as well as more budget-friendly prices. This town is often thought of as a suburb of Zermatt, and offers the same relaxed feel and outdoor experiences.
You won’t have to worry about missing out on skiing when you stay in this area either. Täsch is the last area outside Zermatt where cars are permitted, but there are numerous shuttles which will take you to the town center.
Matterhorn Inn | Best Hotel in Täsch
Located in the center of Täsch, this is one of the best places to stay in Zermatt if you want to be close to everything without paying premium prices. It’s right across from the station with its 24-hour shuttle to Zermatt, and has beautiful balcony rooms and a restaurant on-site for easy meals.
Stylish attic apartment | Best Airbnb in Täsch
A newly renovated attic apartment located in the historic former post office building. This stylishly furnished space offers convenience with its close proximity to the station and shopping facilities. The culinary delights of various nearby restaurants. Accessing the apartment is a breeze with the convenience of a passenger lift. While it offers self-check-in- very convenient. Fast WiFi and opportunities for outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, golf, skiing, and water sports. A very cool gateway for an unforgettable adventure in a picturesque setting.
Studio Täsch “Blick Klein Matterhorn” | Best Studio Flat in Täsch
If you’re deciding where to stay in Zermatt on a budget, check out this gorgeous studio apartment! Sleeping two guests, the studio offers great value for money as well as unbeatable views. There’s a small balcony area, and the studio is clean and modern throughout.
What to See and Do in Täsch:
- Wander around town and take in some local landmarks, like the lively Catholic church Roemisch-Katholische Kirche Täsch.
- Go mountain biking on the Moos-Trail.
- Go mountain climbing on the Weisshorn or Adlerhorn for a quieter experience with amazing views.
- For some really challenging skiing or hiking, try Oberrothorn.
- Play a round of golf at the Golf Club Matterhorn in nearby Randa.
- Have a meal at local restaurants like Hole in One Restaurant, Restaurant La Tana or Walliserkanne.
3. Zermatt Resort Area – Where to Stay in Zermatt for Families
- COOLEST Thing to Do in the Zermatt Resort Area – Have a meal in the mountains at 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat.
- BEST Place to Visit in the Zermatt Resort Area –The Rothorn for a view of the Valais, great skiing in winter and amazing hikes in summer.
If you want to be right in the heart of all the skiing in winter or hiking in summer, then head to the Zermatt Resort Area. This is where the ski areas and many ski lifts of Rothorn, Gornergrat, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Schwarzsee connect. This area is filled with the most stunning hotels in Zermatt.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Zermatt for families, this is a good choice as you won’t have to travel far for a good time. It’s well connected to other areas by public transport, so you can easily find yourself a change of scenery.
Hotel Hemizeus & Iremia Spa | Best Hotel in the Zermatt Resort Area
Right in the shadow of the Matterhorn mountain, this is one of the coolest places to stay in Zermatt. It has a new Iremia spa on-site as well as a sauna, steam bath, jacuzzi and all sorts of luxuries to make your stay even more special. It’s also close to the bus stop, so you can be in the center of Zermatt in mere moments.
The Christiania Mountain Spa Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in the Zermatt Resort Area
Centrally located and literally steps to the ski lift, Zermatt’s renowned resort offers unparalleled comfort and stunning vistas. With exceptional service, late check-in is hassle-free for solo travelers. The dining room provides an unforgettable experience with panoramic views of the Matterhorn during breakfast. The resort’s thoughtful management, led by a local family, ensures attention to detail. There are a range of amenities, including a 25-meter pool, spa, and beautiful designed rooms for ultimate relaxation.
Saxifraga 10 | Best Airbnb in the Zermatt Resort Area
This centrally located apartment sleeps four guests and is ideal for families visiting Zermatt. It’s conveniently close to everything and has two balconies with mountain views. There’s also a fully-equipped kitchen for preparing home-cooked meals.
Lovely Family Apartment | Best Apartment in the Zermatt Resort Area
As far as family apartments in Zermatt go, we reckon this one is one of the best. The flat sleeps five guests and comes fully equipped; featuring open-plan living and a TV, books, and games to keep everyone entertained. It’s situated in a quiet area, with the town centre a short walk away.
What to See and Do in the Zermatt Resort Area:
- Try some delicious if expensive meals at restaurants like Adler-Hitta, Alphitta or 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat.
- Visit Gornergrat mountain for beautiful views, and pay respects at the mountaineers cemetery.
- Make sure you take the Matterhorn glacier ride to the top of the mountain for the best vistas in town.
- Visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise at the top of Klein Matterhorn, and take the tunnel to the Breithorn Plateau – an enormous glacier in the mountains.
- Make the descent into Glacier Grotto to see the frozen sculptures.
- Embrace Switzerland’s stunning trails on a trek from the top of the Klein Matterhorn to the tip of nearby Breithorn.
- Take a funicular, gondola and or one of the cable cars up to Unterrothorn for more views, skiing and great summer hikes.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Zermatt
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Zermatt and where to stay.
What To Pack For Zermatt
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Zermatt
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Zermatt
Zermatt offers travelers in Europe the chance to be surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery around. Whether you’re a keen skier or passionate hiker, Zermatt is full of adventure waiting to be explored.
Switzerland isn’t the cheapest country, and Zermatt isn’t the most budget-friendly destination. However, it’s worth every penny, and there are a decent amount of hostels in the area to help you out. Nevertheless, nestled in stunning surroundings, Zermatt boasts some of the finest luxury hotels in Switzerland, making it an overall worthwhile destination.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Switzerland.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Zermatt.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Switzerland instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Updated May 2023
