Are you wondering the best way to get from Zurich to Zermatt? You can take public transportation, drive, or book a tour. In our ultimate guide on traveling from Zurich to Zermatt we’ll break down the best ways to visit the Zermatt, home of the famous Matterhorn!
Even as locals we love visiting Zermatt and we always take our family and friends there when they visit Switzerland. We’ve made this trip multiple times by both car and train.
In this blog post, we’ll explore:
- The many transportation options available, including by public transport with SBB trains, rental cars, small group tours, private transfers, and more.
- We’ll also provide insider tips on the best routes, sights and activities in both Zurich and Zermatt, and share personal anecdotes from our own travels.
So buckle up, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable trip from Zurich to Zermatt!
If you’re looking to travel throughout Switzerland in 5 days, check out our Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary for Switzerland.
Zurich to Zermatt: The Ultimate Adventure Awaits
Are you ready for an epic adventure from Zurich to Zermatt? Let’s check out your transportation options! First up, the train – a convenient and popular choice to soak in the stunning Swiss landscapes. At around $50 per person, it’s a great budget-friendly option. Looking for something more luxurious? The Glacier Express offers panoramic views for around $150 per person. Or, go your own way with a rental car at around $150 per day, including fuel and tolls.
If you prefer a guided experience, small group tours start at around $200 per person or go big with a private tour ranging from $500 to $1000 depending on your preferences. And, if you’re all about exclusive service, a private transfer is the way to go at around $400. With an idea of your options and costs, get ready for an unforgettable journey from Zurich to Zermatt!
Transportation options from Zurich to Zermatt, along with their estimated costs:
Please note that the costs mentioned are approximate and can vary based on factors such as season, availability, and specific preferences. It’s always a good idea to check with the relevant transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Travel Time and Options: Zurich to Zermatt
Now, let’s dive into the captivating realm of Zurich-Zermatt transport options. In this section, we’ll explore the estimated durations for each mode of transportation, with travel times typically ranging between 3 and 5 hours. Discover the best way to reach your destination while relishing the breathtaking Swiss scenery throughout your journey.
Are you heading to Switzerland soon? Then look no further than the scenic train journey from Zurich to Zermatt! A must-try experience that’s convenient, ultra-scenic, and won’t break the bank. Arriving at Zurich Airport? Perfect! From the main train station in Zurich, most direct route by train ride takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on specific trains and tranquil connections. You can also board a train at the airport station and transfer trains at Zurich HB. Your journey time to Zermatt will be around 3 to 4.5 hours, so you’ll have a little extra time for a coffee if you need one!
The train adventure is a feast for the eyes, offering panoramic views of charming villages, stunning alpine landscapes and so much more. Plus, the Swiss Travel Pass provides options and flexibility. Did you know it covers Swiss trains, buses, and boats? The Swiss Travel Pass is the best option if you plan on traveling throughout Switzerland by train.
Whether you buy the pass or a ticket at the ticket machine, it can work out cheaper if you plan to hop on and off trains. If you opt for first-class tickets, the SBB app is fantastic for train transfers and tickets. With unlimited travel, you can take as many Swiss journeys as you like to different destinations.
As for the costs, standard adult ticket prices for train tickets from Zurich to Zermatt can range from around 50 to 100 Swiss Francs depending on the class of service and selected travel time. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) app is a convenient way to purchase Supersaver tickets or upgrade to a higher class while traveling from Zurich to Zermatt.With the Supersaver option, you can save up to 70% on regular ticket prices by purchasing in advance and taking specific trains. And if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, upgrading to first-class provides access to comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and panoramic views of the Swiss landscapes.
The SBB app also allows you to easily view timetables and plan your journey. Download the app today for a hassle-free way to travel in Switzerland! So, why wait? Embark on this unforgettable journey and take advantage of the wonders of Switzerland today.
Journey from Zurich to Zermatt via Visp: Changing Platforms
When traveling from Zurich to Zermatt, a common route involves a transfer at the town of Visp. From Zurich, you can board a train that will take you directly to Visp, which serves as a major transportation hub for accessing Zermatt. The duration of the train ride from Zurich to Visp typically ranges from 2 to 2.5 hours.
Once you arrive in Visp, it’s important to note that you will likely need to change platforms for the onward journey to Zermatt. While Visp is a relatively small station, it serves as a crucial connection point for travelers heading to Zermatt. The exact platform for your Zermatt-bound train will be indicated on the departure boards within the station.
The transfer time at Visp can vary depending on the train schedules, but it usually ranges from 10 to 20 minutes. During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to stretch your legs and prepare for the next leg of your journey. Be sure to keep an eye on the departure boards and listen for any announcements to ensure a smooth transition.
From Visp, you will board a regional train that will take you directly to Zermatt. This picturesque train ride offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps as you wind your way through the scenic mountain valleys. The duration of the train journey from Visp to Zermatt is approximately 40 to 50 minutes.
The Glacier Express: A Spectacular Journey from Zurich to Zermatt
For a truly unforgettable train experience from Zurich to Zermatt, consider embarking on the world-famous Glacier Express. This panoramic train ride offers a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps, showcasing stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and remarkable engineering marvels. The is the the best travel route to take in all the wonderful Swiss scenery.
The Glacier Express journey from Zurich to Zermatt involves a combination of regular train connections and the dedicated Glacier Express train.
Here’s a breakdown of the route:
1. Zurich to Landquart: Departing from Zurich, you’ll board a regular train that takes you to the town of Landquart. This leg of the journey provides a glimpse of Switzerland’s beautiful countryside, with rolling hills and charming villages passing by. The duration of this train ride is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
2. Landquart to St. Moritz: Upon arriving in Landquart, you’ll transfer to another regular train that will whisk you off to the renowned alpine resort town of St. Moritz. This leg of the journey showcases the majestic Swiss Alps as the train winds through mountainous terrain and offers stunning vistas. The train ride from Landquart to St. Moritz typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
3. St. Moritz to Zermatt via the Glacier Express: In St. Moritz, you’ll board the iconic Glacier Express train, known for its panoramic windows that provide uninterrupted views of the stunning Alpine landscapes.
The Glacier Express traverses through breathtaking valleys, crosses soaring viaducts, and ventures into the heart of the Swiss Alps. The route continues from St. Moritz to Chur, Andermatt, Brig, and finally reaches the enchanting mountain village of Zermatt. The train journey on the Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Zermatt typically takes around 7.5 to 8 hours.
As you sit back and relax in the comfortable train cabins, the Glacier Express treats you to extraordinary vistas of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, deep gorges, and charming alpine towns. Throughout the journey, informative audio commentary enhances your experience by providing insights into the history, culture, and natural wonders of the region.
It’s important to note that the Glacier Express operates as a scenic tourist train and requires seat reservations. Additionally, the ticket cost for the Glacier Express is higher compared to regular train fares due to the premium experience and panoramic views it offers.
If you’re seeking a truly remarkable and immersive train journey from Zurich to Zermatt, the Glacier Express promises an awe-inspiring adventure through Switzerland’s mesmerizing alpine landscapes. Get ready to create lifelong memories as you traverse this iconic rail route and arrive in the captivating mountain paradise of Zermatt.
Driving to Zermatt: Scenic Routes and Car-Free Charm
If you prefer the freedom and flexibility of a self-driven adventure, embarking on a road trip from Zurich to Zermatt is an excellent option. While Zermatt itself is car-free, you can reach the village by car and then continue your journey using public transportation. Let’s explore the two main driving routes from Zurich to Zermatt and the subsequent travel arrangements.
1. Route via Realp: This is one of the main routes to get to Zermat by car, this scenic route takes you through breathtaking landscapes and mountain passes. From Zurich, you’ll drive south towards Realp, where you can soak in the beauty of the Swiss Alps. This route offers awe-inspiring views and a chance to experience the famous Gotthard Pass. It takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Zermatt from Zurich and is the most common route by car.
2. Route via Kandersteg and Lotschberg Tunnel: Another picturesque option is to drive from Zurich to Kandersteg and then pass through the Lotschberg Tunnel. This is a slightly longer route by car. This route showcases stunning alpine scenery, including lush valleys and charming Swiss villages. The drive from Zurich to Kandersteg takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, and then the journey through the Lotschberg Tunnel to Brig and onwards to Zermatt adds an additional 2 to 2.5 hours.
It’s important to note that Zermatt is a car-free village, meaning private vehicles are not allowed within its limits. To reach Zermatt from your parking point, you’ll need to leave your car in the neighboring town of Täsch, which is approximately a 10 to 15-minute drive from Zermatt. Täsch offers various parking facilities, and you can park your car there for the duration of your stay in Zermatt.
Parking in Täsch typically costs around CHF 15 to CHF 20 per day, depending on the parking lot facility and the season. It’s advisable to check the specific parking rates and availability beforehand, especially during peak travel periods. From Täsch, you can take the shuttle train (Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn) or a taxi to Zermatt, which is a short and convenient journey of about 12 minutes.
It’s worth mentioning that tickets for the shuttle train from Täsch to Zermatt can be purchased directly at the station or online. The cost for a one-way ticket is approximately CHF 9 to CHF 12 per adult, with discounted rates available for children and seniors.
So, as you embark on your scenic drive from Zurich to Zermatt, remember to plan for parking in Täsch and make the smooth transition to the shuttle train for the final leg of your journey. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and get ready to immerse yourself in the car-free wonderland of Zermatt, surrounded by majestic mountains and unforgettable alpine beauty.
Small Group Tours from Zurich to Zermatt: An Unforgettable Swiss Adventure
If you’re looking for a curated, hassle-free way to explore Switzerland, a small group tour from Zurich to Zermatt is the way to go. Not only will you have the chance to bond with fellow travelers, but you’ll also have the expertise of a knowledgeable guide to lead the way.
To book a small group tour, check out companies like Swiss Travel Guide or Viator. Get ready for an unforgettable Swiss adventure!
Private Tours from Zurich to Zermatt: A Luxurious Swiss Adventure
For a truly extravagant and personalized way to experience Switzerland, a private tour from Zurich to Zermatt is the ultimate choice. With a private tour, you’ll have the freedom to create your own itinerary and make stops along the way that cater to your interests.
To book a private tour, check out companies like Kuoni Private Journeys. Get ready for a luxurious Swiss adventure you’ll never forget!
Returning from Zermatt to Zurich: Train or Car?
After a breathtaking journey from Zurich to Zermatt, it’s time to head back to the city. Two popular transportation options are by train or car. Taking a train is a convenient and comfortable way to enjoy the stunning Swiss scenery one last time. The Glacier Express is a popular option for panoramic views, but the regular train service is also a great choice. Expect to pay around $50 per person.
Alternatively, renting a car gives you the freedom to stop at your leisure and explore the charming mountain towns along the way. Budget around $150 per day for rental costs, including fuel and tolls. Whichever transportation option you choose, the journey back to Zurich will be a picturesque experience you won’t soon forget.
Zurich to Zermatt as a Day Trip: Yes, It’s Possible!
Believe it or not, it’s possible to visit Zermatt from Zurich in just one day. It’s an ambitious itinerary that requires an early start, but the reward is an unforgettable adventure in the Swiss Alps. We did it ourselves with our 10-month-old baby, so we know it’s doable!
To make the most of your day trip, we recommend taking the earliest train from Zurich to Zermatt, which departs at around 5:02 am (hello, early morning hours!). Yeah, we know it’s early, but trust us, it’s worth it. The journey takes around 3.5 hours, so you’ll arrive in Zermatt by around 8:30 am.
Once you arrive, take the cable car up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for stunning panoramic views of the mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous and up for a mountain excursion, take a hike on one of the scenic trails and explore the alpine meadows. And of course, be sure to snap a photo with the iconic Matterhorn in the background.
After spending the day in Zermatt, it’s time to head back to Zurich with a round trip. Don’t worry, there are plenty of trains that leave in the late afternoon or evening. You’ll arrive back in Zurich tired but satisfied after an incredible day in the Swiss Alps.
If you’re up for the challenge, a day trip from Zurich to Zermatt is a great way to experience the beauty of Switzerland. Just make sure to pack warm clothing and plenty of snacks for the journey!
Getting from Zurich to Zermatt: Your Ultimate Guide
We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your journey from Zurich to Zermatt and got you familiar with Swiss rail travel and the many different ways to travel. From trains to rental cars, small group tours to private transfers, Switzerland offers a range of transportation options to suit your preferences and budget.
Take advantage of the stunning Swiss landscapes along the way and make stops in charming mountain towns like Interlaken. Once you arrive in the picturesque city of Zermatt, don’t miss the chance to take a cable car to the top of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for an unforgettable panoramic view of the majestic Matterhorn. Whether you choose a budget-friendly train or a luxurious private transfer, the journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Thanks for reading!
