The Best Après Ski Bars in Zermatt
The evolution of Zermatt’s Après Ski scene never ceases to amaze me. This charming mountain village also has some of Europe’s best Après Ski entertainment.
After carving through its world-famous slopes, there’s no better way to unwind than by diving into Zermatt’s buzzing après-ski scene.
From lively mountain bars and cosy restaurants serving hearty alpine cuisine to luxurious spas and unique cultural experiences, this charming Swiss village has something to captivate every traveller.
This guide discusses must-visit spots, unforgettable activities, and insider tips for maximising your après-ski time in Zermatt. Whether you’re here for the lively parties, breathtaking views, or a taste of local traditions, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
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Does Zermatt Have Good Après Ski?
Zermatt is renowned for its vibrant après-ski scene. The town offers diverse options, from lively bars and clubs with live music and DJs to cosy cafes and elegant lounges.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a quiet drink with a view of the Matterhorn, celebrate holidays like Christmas, or relax in a luxurious spa, Zermatt has something to suit every après-ski preference.
The stunning alpine scenery and lively social atmosphere make it a top destination for après-ski enthusiasts.
Zermatt Après Ski on the Mountain
If you prefer to ski to lunch and Après from early afternoon, these are the best spots During Lift Opening Times:
Adler Hitta
Opening Times | 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Location | Easy Run 6–Blue Slope. Findeln, Sunnegga
Best For | House Music & Lively Events
Adler Hitta offers a fantastic après-ski experience with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. It’s accessible for skiers and non-skiers who enjoy the lounge with delicious drinks, good food, and music.
The venue features a laid-back atmosphere, deckchairs for sunbathing, and a cool music setup. Deep house DJs and live performances from violinists or saxophonists are popular here.
It’s the place for cocktails, mocktails and busting out those afternoon dance moves.
Chez Vrony
Opening Times | 11:30 am – 4:00 pm
Location | Easy Run 6–Blue Slope. Findeln, Sunnegga
Best For | A Luxurious Laidback Environment
Chez Vrony combines stunning views of the Matterhorn with a relaxed and cosy atmosphere. The outdoor patio serves as an après-ski bar, where guests can enjoy drinks while lounging on sunbeds lined with pillows and fur.
Known for its sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine, Chez Vrony provides a serene setting for those seeking a more laid-back après-ski environment.
Note: the last lift at the bottom of Findeln (Eja) is at 16:00. If you plan to ski down from Adler Hitta, Chez Vrony, or any other restaurant in Findeln, don’t miss this lift. Otherwise, it’s a tricky hike up in your ski gear before you can descend.
Igloo Dorf
Opening Times | 10:30 am – 4:00 pm
Location | Iglupiste 45–Blue Slope. Gornergrat
Best For | Unique Snow Village Setting
The Iglu-Dorf offers a unique après-ski experience at 2,727 meters above sea level, providing views of the Matterhorn and surrounding pistes. This arty snow hotel features a sun terrace and a snow bar to enjoy drinks, snacks, and a cheese fondue.
Accessible by ski or snowboard, the Iglu-Dorf is a perfect spot for those looking to combine adventure with relaxation. Overnight guests can enjoy wellness amenities like a whirlpool, making it a distinctive place to unwind after a day on the slopes.
Blue Lounge
Opening Times | 9:30 am – 3:45 pm
Location | Tuftern 9–Red Slope. Sunnegga
Best For | Casual Snacks and Beer
Located next to the Blauherd station, Blue Lounge is easily accessible for both skiers and non-skiers.
Relax on couches, beanbags and deckchairs on the spacious terrace while enjoying Matterhorn views, snacks and drinks while listening to live musicians and DJs.
Fluhalp
Opening Times | 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Location | Fluhalp 19–Red Slope. Sunnegga
Best For | Rustic Charm
Located in the Rothorn ski area, Fluhalp showcases traditional architecture and stunning Matterhorn views. The mountain hut creates a cosy atmosphere and offers a spacious sun terrace to relax and enjoy food and drinks.
Live music contributes to the venue’s lively ambience during winter. Fluhalp offers rustic and gourmet dishes, ideal for unwinding and planning the following day’s adventures.
Alphitta
Opening Times | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location | Landtunnel 41–Red Slope. Riffelalp
Best For | Accessible On Piste Entertainment
Alphitta is easily accessible by train, walking, skiing, or snowboarding. You can enjoy live music from Irish Dave and guests on its terrace. The outdoor seating area provides a perfect setting to relax and enjoy Matterhorn views after a day on the slopes.
The restaurant’s cosy atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both skiers and non-skiers. Guests can enjoy a variety of Swiss and European dishes, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. Meat eaters should try the hearty Irish Stew when on the specials menu.
Champagne Bar
Opening Times | 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location | Ried 2–Red Slope. Ried
Best For | A Quick Champagne Pitstop
I hear you; where else would be more suited to a “quick champagne pitstop” than Zermatt? Located on the less stressful piste of Ried, avoiding the Howette Wall (affectionately known as the wall of death), The Champagne Bar is ideally situated for a short visit before the final breezy stretch back to town.
Refugio Teodulo
Opening Times | 24/7
Location | Plateau Rosa – Bontadini 6–Red Slope. Cervinia
Best For | Italian Hospitality and Unique Views
Sitting on the border between Switzerland and Italy, Refugio Teodulo is a great place to unwind with a charcuterie board and wine. With floor-to-ceiling windows and incredible views of Italy, it’s one of the best places to watch the sun go down.
If you plan to ski back to Zermatt, check that the black slope is open. Otherwise, don’t miss the last lift from Furgg to Schwarzsee.
These are the best spots towards the end of the day if you’re looking for sundowner sounds and sips After The Lifts Close:
Blatten
Opening Times | 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Location | Blatten 50–Red Slope. Blatten
Best For | Schümli Pflümli Sundowners
Bergrestaurant Blatten offers a mix of cosy, traditional atmosphere and modern party on the slopes. Its location provides views of the sun setting behind the Matterhorn’s peak.
The restaurant is known for its Swiss and European cuisine, featuring dishes like rösti and fondue. The outdoor snow bar with deck chairs is a popular spot for guests to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
The warm and inviting ambience makes it a perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes. Their most popular Après Ski shot is the Schümli Pflümli–crafted from sugar, plum schnapps, and coffee and topped with whipped cream. Yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds.
Hennu Stall
Opening Times | 2:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Location | Blatten 50–Red Slope. Blatten
Best For | Lively Euro-Pop & Dancing
Hennu Stall in Zermatt is a legendary après-ski destination renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and lively parties. Located at the bottom of the Furi-Zermatt slope, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes.
The terrace DJ plays all your favourite Euro-Pop (yes, I wanted to write trash, but as trashy as it is, we all know and secretly love it). And if dancing isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the music while sipping their famous hot chocolate or Hennu Mule.
Note: The slope from Blatten and Hennu to Zermatt is steep, bumpy, and busy at the end of the day. Take care when descending, especially if you’ve had a few drinks.
CERVO
Opening Times | Monday – Thursday, 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Friday – Sunday, 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Location | The end of Howette 3–Red Slope, Zermatt
Best For | Entertainment Variety
CERVO Mountain Resort offers a stylish après-ski experience at the end of the Sunnegga ski slopes. With two terraces providing views of Zermatt and the Matterhorn, it is a prime spot to unwind after skiing or snowboarding.
The après-ski scene here features live music sessions, exclusive DJ sets, and a selection of delicious food and drinks. It provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests and locals to enjoy the unique CERVO vibe.
Après Ski in Cervinia
If you’re looking for an early to mid afternoon après ski spot in Cervinia, stay high up in the resort. This is the safest bet to make it back to Zermatt before the lifts close. Our favourite spots are Love Après Ski, Chalet Etoile or the highest option of Rifugio Teodulo.
Après Ski in Zermatt
If you like to leave your après ski entertainment until after the slopes or want to continue the party vibe, these are the best après ski spots in the Zermatt village.
Papperla Pub
Opening Times | Monday – Thursday, 3:00 pm – 12:00 am, Friday – Sunday, 3:30 pm – 2:00 am
Location | Steinmattstrasse 36, Zermatt
Best For | Energetic Live Music
The Papperla Pub is a local legend in the Zermatt après ski scene and a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience energetic après ski both on the terrace and inside the venue.
Located near the Kirchbrücke, Papperla Pub is known for its live music and lively atmosphere. It offers the perfect setting to let loose after a day on the slopes.
With indoor and outdoor seating, Papperla Pub is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists. It’s a great spot to socialise and enjoy the electric après-ski culture in Zermatt.
Harry’s Ski Bar
Opening Times | 3:00 pm – 12:00am
Location | Hinterdorfstrasse 53, Zermatt
Best For | Lederhosen & Laughs
Harry’s Ski Bar is known for its classic alpine atmosphere. It offers a vibrant party scene at the bottom of Zermatt’s old town. Enjoy Stiegl beer and a variety of wines and cocktails.
Here, you’ll find a fun environment, with staff dressed in traditional attire and lively pop music setting the mood. Originally a henhouse, Harry Lauber and his son Fabian transformed the old hut into a famous après ski spot in 2014.
Zermatterhof Terrace
Opening Times | 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm on good weather days.
Location | Hinterdorfstrasse 55, Zermatt
Best For | Relaxed Sundowners
If you are looking for a place to unwind with great service, fantastic views and an excellent drinks menu, the Lusi Terrace at The Zermatterhof is right up your street.
Situated in the heart of the village, this is a great place to catch up with friends, enjoy sundowners in a relaxed setting, or sit back and people watch.
Snowboat
Opening Times | 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Location | Vispastrasse 20, Zermatt
Best For | Cocktails With Live Music
Snowboat is known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent service. Located near the Sunnegga lift station, it offers a unique setting with a yacht club vibe, a warm wood fire and a friendly crew.
You can indulge in creative cocktails and delicious food while enjoying live music and a vibrant environment, making it a great place to unwind and socialise.
Elsie’s Wine and Champagne Bar
Opening Times | Sunday – Thursday, 4:00 pm – 12:00 am, Friday – Saturday, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am
Location | Kirchpl. 16, Zermatt
Best For | Traditional Sophistication
Elsie’s Wine and Champagne Bar is a charming and sophisticated spot for après-ski relaxation. Located in the heart of Zermatt on Kirchplatz, this cosy bar offers a selection of first-class wines and champagnes, complemented by a refined menu of international and Swiss delicacies.
The atmosphere evokes the golden twenties, providing a warm and inviting setting for gourmet dining and exquisite drinks. Elsie’s is loved for its excellent service and menu, which includes specialities like bison filet, truffle risotto, and lobster spaghetti.
Firefly Bar 55
Opening Times | 7:00 am – 1:00 am
Location | Schluhmattstrasse 55, Zermatt
Best For | Cosy Fireside Drinks
Bar 55 at the Firefly Hotel is a cosy and stylish après-ski spot known for its extensive gin selection and welcoming atmosphere.
The bar is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. and offers the perfect setting for a relaxing drink after a day on the slopes. It features a warm fireplace, a game room with billiards, and a smoker’s lounge with a selection of cigars.
Manud
Opening Times | 9:00 am – 9:45 pm
Location | Hofmattstrasse 4, Zermatt
Best For | Open Mic Night and Pop-Up Events
Whether you’re a spectator or a participant, the Open Mic nights at Manud are always a good time. Hosted mainly on Tuesdays (although not every week), they are a good oportunity to share your skills or listen to local musicians and first time visitors.
Manud also host regular pop-up events, like live concerts and dinner with a show. Keep up to date with up-coming events on their Facebook Page.
Schmuggler-Höhle
Opening Times | 2:00 pm – 12:00 am
Location | Schluhmattstrasse 50, Zermatt
Best For | Southern Location
Schmuggler-Höhle is a popular après-ski bar on the river at the bottom of the Furi-Zermatt piste. It has a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
This cosy spot offers skiers and snowboarders a place to unwind with drinks after descending from Furi or a party continuation from Blatten and Hennu. The outdoor area frequently hosts live musicians, adding to the vibrant après-ski experience.
Late Night Après Ski Entertainment
Zermatt has a colourful nightlife scene, from traditional settings to wild parties. The town offers a variety of options, including bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a quiet drink with friends, or listen to live performances, Zermatt has something to suit your tastes.
Popular spots often feature DJs, themed nights, and a vibrant atmosphere, making them great places to unwind after a day on the mountain.
Unique Hotel Post
Opening Times | 9:00 am – Late (varies from 2:00 am)
Location | Bahnhofstrasse 41, Zermatt
Best For | Entertainment & Food Variety
The Unique Hotel Post offers various bars and clubs under one roof. Located in the heart of Zermatt, this hotel combines a sophisticated mountain lodge style with modern amenities.
Enjoy diverse dining options across its three restaurants and one pub and entertainment in its five bars and clubs. The hotel has a lively atmosphere, featuring live music and a stylish setting that attracts locals and visitors.
We particularly love the Pink for live music and excellent cocktails.
BEAUSiTE
Opening Times | 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Location | Brunnmattgasse 9, Zermatt
Best For | Luxurious Laidback Vibes & Non Alcoholic Options
The BEAUSiTE bar is a bit of a hidden gem in Zermatt. It’s effortlessly stylish without trying too hard. From 7-9 pm you’ll find local musicians playing a very soulful set, in one of the coolest and most underatted bars in town.
Grab a cocktail or a bottle of nosecco and unwind to accoustic sounds in a lush mountain lodge setting.
Vernissage
Opening Times | Wednesday – Sunday 5:00 pm – 2:00 am
Location | Hofmattstrasse 4, Zermatt
Best For | Pop-Up Nights, Special Events and DJs
The Vernissage Bar is a mix of cocktails, music, film, and exclusive parties. From Wednesday to Saturday, the venue comes alive with its signature Bar Sessions, featuring resident DJs like N.I.Z., Asia & Emme, and DJ Bergwelt, as well as live music nights filled with 70s–90s hits.
The bar’s unique atmosphere blends seamlessly with its cinema space, where documentary and feature film screenings often transform into vibrant club nights.
Winter also brings special events and after-parties, particularly during Zermatt Unplugged, when Vernissage becomes one of the hottest spots in town for late-night celebrations.
Hotel Alex
Opening Times | 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Location | Bodmenstrasse 12, Zermatt
Best For | Wine and Whisky Lovers
Hotel Alex blends traditional alpine charm and modern luxury. Located in the heart of the village, this 4-star hotel features a sociable bar with a distinctive character, including a smokers’ and whisky lounge perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
Enjoy gourmet dining at the Alex Grill and the wine cellar Bodega Bacchus, making it a popular spot for relaxation and socialising.
Best Zermatt Après Ski Events
Throughout the winter, Zermatt hosts various seasonal and themed events that cater to all tastes and interests. Something is always happening in this lively village, from the popular Zermatt Unplugged music festival to The Last Waltz.
Burns Night
Where | Fluhalp
When | 25th January
Fluhalp in Zermatt hosts a one-of-a-kind Burns Night celebration, billed as “the highest Burns supper party” in Europe. Serving up a traditional Scottish menu and live entertainment such as bagpipers and performances by the in-house Fluhalp Band.
Gather for an unforgettable afternoon, dining at 2 606 m, then raise a glass to Burns with whisky toasts and foot-tapping music.
St. Patrick’s Day
Where | Alphitta & Fluhalp
When | 17th March
In Zermatt, you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the legendary parties held at Restaurant Fluhalp and Restaurant Alphitta. These events feature an authentic Irish menu, live music, and festive outfits, making them vibrant celebrations.
The most popular option is to celebrate at Alphitta with Irish Dave and his rowdy bunch of musicians. Grab a Guinness and sing a long to your favourite Irish tunes, try to keep up with Rattlin Bog!
Waterslide Competition
Where | Adler Hitta
When | March/April
Held in late spring whenever the weather is good enough, Adler Hitta’s waterslide competition is a hilarious event where skiers and snowboarders attempt to pond skim.
With creative costumes, friendly rivalries, and a festive crowd of locals and tourists, the celebration is packed with laughter, music, and après-slide fun. It’s a must-see spectacle that combines snowy adventure with pure joy.
Retro Day
Where | Adler Hitta
When | March/April
Retro Day at Adler Hitta is a fun-filled celebration where locals and tourists dress up in vintage ski gear for nostalgia and laughs. With lively music, playful activities, and a festive crowd, it’s a throwback party you won’t want to miss.
Retro Day is held sometime in late March or April and varies each year.
Zermatt Unplugged
Where | Village and Mountain Wide
When | April
Typically held in early April, Zermatt Unplugged is a one-of-a-kind acoustic music festival spread amongst the mountain and village.
Attracting local and international artists and audiences, this vibrant event combines intimate performances with the charm of Zermatt’s mountain atmosphere, making it a must for music lovers.
The Last Waltz
Where | CERVO
When | April
The Last Waltz at Cervo is an enchanting farewell event where everyone comes together for an evening of music, dancing, and celebration as the sunset marks the end of the ski season. Its warm atmosphere, lively traditions, and breathtaking views make it a heartfelt way to bid winter adieu.
Global Events
Throughout the winter season, you can find a variety of pop-up events on and off the mountain organised by Global Party. From Valentine’s Day Sounds of Ibiza to their famous end of season Smurf party.
The best way to keep up to date with their next up-coming event, is through the Global Party Facebook Page.
Aprés Ski For Non-Drinkers
With health consciousness on the rise, finding a good selection of alcohol-free drinks has never been easier. In addition to the standard selection of soft drinks, most bars and restaurants serve tea, coffee, and hot chocolate to warm up from the chilling air, and some offer non-alcoholic punch and glüwein.
The cocktail bars can shake up a selection of mocktails, and most places will have an alcohol-free beer. Many bars also now serve alcohol free fizz, my favourite being the Freixenet Rosé at BEAUSiTE.
Zermatt offers plenty of après-ski activities for those who prefer to skip the party scene. From cosy cafes serving steaming hot chocolate to wellness retreats and cultural explorations, there’s something to suit every taste.
For our complete guide on alternative après ski activities, head to:
Alcohol-Free Après Ski in Zermatt
Tips for First-Time Visitors
If you’ve never been to Zermatt or experienced Après Ski, here are our tips for first-time visitors.
What to Wear for Après Ski in Zermatt
As the name ‘après ski’ suggests, most people will be rocking up in their ski and snowboard gear.
Although it would be easy to think that Zermatt is all Moncler-clad skiers who look like they’ve just stepped off the winter fashion runway, you’ll find most people in everyday brands from Peak Performance to Decathlon.
Like any situation in life, wear what you love, think of layers to strip down to for busting out the dance moves, and remember, once the sun goes down, it will get chilly, so be ready to load those layers back on.
Carry comfortable footwear in a backpack if you feel you can’t safely or comfortably enjoy après in your ski boots. Snowboarders have the advantage here.
We have all-mountain ski boots with a walk mode, ideal for skiing, ski touring and après ski.
Even though our boots have Gripwalk, we find on concrete and other slick flooring Ski Boot Traction gives us extra grip and lengthens the life of our Gripwalk plates. While skiing, we store them at the back of our boots, using our power strap.
If you’re skipping the skiing and heading straight to après, keep it casual, comfortable and layered. You’ll still need toasty outer layers, a hat, and gloves for when the sun goes down.
Don’t forget a set of good-quality lenses. Zermatt gets around 300 days of sunshine annually, and you’ll want sunglasses to protect those peepers.
For special events, you will find that most people will be on theme. Tartan for Burns Night, Green for Paddy’s Day, 80’s onesies for Retro Day.
Generally, the more ridiculous the outfit, the better, but if you prefer to be understated, a subtle hint of colour as a nod to the festivities will work just fine.
Plan Ahead
Popular spots get booked quickly for table reservations, especially in peak season or for special events. Where possible, book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Choose venues with outdoor terraces or panoramic windows to soak in the landscape and the iconic Matterhorn at sunset.
Keeping Your Gear Safe
While Zermatt is generally considered a safe place, theft can happen anywhere and occasionally does. There are also cases of people taking skis that they mistook for their own, and many rental skis will look the same.
Rental skis will have the ski shop logo and often a sticker with your name. Make sure to check this before setting off.
At mountain bars and restaurants, we pair our skis–one of Sam’s and one of mine—and then put them on separate ski racks. Skiers and Snowboarders can also use a cable lock to secure their planks to the rack or each other’s equipment.
The lift stations also have ski lockers, so securing your gear in a locker could be ideal if you plan to start the next day where you finish today. The big lockers have space for skis, snowboards, boots, helmets and poles and will dry overnight, ready for your adventure tomorrow.
Keep track of your loose items. Carabiner your gloves to your trousers or stuff them in your pockets, with your hat and buff.
If you have it with you, place them inside your helmet or a backpack and don’t let them too far out of sight. These are things that easily ‘go missing’, especially when alcohol is involved.
Paying, Tipping & Cost
Regarding paying and tipping in Zermatt, things are pretty straightforward but with a local twist. Most places, from charming alpine restaurants to mountain huts, are happy to accept credit and debit cards.
However, it’s always a good idea to carry some Swiss Francs (CHF) for smaller transactions or more traditional establishments. ATMs are easy to find around the town if you need cash.
Remember to have Euros (EUR) for any trips to Italy. Many places in Cervinia, including the two Refugios at Plateau Rosa, will accept cards and Swiss Francs (CHF), but to be on the safe side, it’s helpful to have local currency.
The Swiss tend to keep tipping simple. Service charges are often included in restaurants, so there’s no pressure to leave a big tip. Tipping is completely at your own discretion and not expected.
That said, rounding up the bill to the nearest CHF 5 or 10 or leaving a few extra Francs for excellent service is appreciated.
Depending on where you go, drinks in Zermatt can range from “Oh, that’s reasonable” to “Wait, did I just buy a whole vineyard?”
A hot chocolate or regular coffee usually sets you back around CHF 4-6, while a fancy latte might cost closer to CHF 7.
For something stronger, a pint of local beer typically costs CHF 7-10, and a glass of wine hovers around CHF 8-12.
Cocktails are pricier, averaging CHF 15-20, especially in upscale bars or mountain lodges.
For premium spirits, the sky’s the limit.. However, to avoid heart attacks, check the price of your fancy gin and tonic before ordering.
Learn the Local Etiquette
Zermatt has a laid-back vibe, but it’s always appreciated when visitors respect the local culture and traditions. While you aren’t likely to see the local authorities much, they do like to keep a sense of quiet, especially late at night.
Remember to keep the noise down when falling out of bars and clubs late at night.
Closing Thoughts on Après Ski Zermatt
Zermatt effortlessly blends adventure, culture, and indulgence into a perfect alpine escape. Whether you’re carving down the slopes, sipping a luxurious cocktail, or enjoying the serene views of the Matterhorn, this Swiss gem offers an experience for everyone.
The après-ski scene is where Zermatt truly shines. It’s a harmonious mix of lively and laid-back, with bustling mountain bars for those looking to dance into the night and tranquil terraces where you can quietly toast a day well-spent.
Planning goes a long way here, as those coveted spots with panoramic views fill up fast. Keep your gear safe with clever tricks—like splitting up your skis or using lockers—and keep an eye on those gloves when the drinks start flowing.
On the practical side, paying and tipping in Zermatt is refreshingly straightforward. Carry some Swiss Francs alongside your credit card, and remember that tipping is subtle—rounding up or adding a few extra Francs will do the trick.
Drinks can range from affordable to extravagant, so don’t be surprised when your fancy latte or gin and tonic has an alpine premium.
