How to Get to Zermatt | 2025 Travel Guide

From A to Zermatt: We’ve got the lowdown on how to get to Zermatt the fastest, easiest and cheapest ways, without a hitch!

We have travelled back and forth from many worldwide locations to Zermatt. Use our local knowledge to get the best insight into travelling to Zermatt, Switzerland.

Zermatt is a breathtaking mountain village that captures the essence of Switzerland’s stunning natural beauty. Known for its car-free streets and majestic Matterhorn view, this idyllic destination is a must-visit for any traveller. 

However, getting here can seem daunting due to our unique transportation restrictions. But don’t worry; we’ll guide you through the various ways you can reach this enchanting Alpine village – whether by train, taxi, or helicopter! 

Note: Spiss is the first area at the entrance to Zermatt, it is the only area of Zermatt that allows cars, and only cars with the correct permit can drive to Spiss. All visitor vehicles must park in Täsch.

The fine for driving between Täsch and Zermatt without a permit is 600 CHF.

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Where Is Zermatt?

Zermatt is a picturesque town in the Valais canton of southern Switzerland. It is located at the south end of the Matter Valley, on the border of Itay.

This idyllic mountain village in the Swiss Alps, sits at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, one of the highest peaks in the Alps. The town’s tourism boomed following the first ascent of the Matterhorn, which is now one of the world’s most famous and photographed mountains.

It is a top destination for skiers, mountaineers, mountain bikers, foodies and luxury travellers and is known for popular attractions, including the Gornergrat Railway, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and Riffelsee. 

It’s also a car-free zone, adding to its luxurious, serene ambience and a magical place to spend the Christmas holidays.

How To Get To Zermatt

There are four ways to reach the home of the Matterhorn: by plane, car, train, or helicopter. The journey to this car-free alpine paradise is filled with natural beauty.

The most common route is by train, with connections from major Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva, which also have international airports. 

You can take a train from these cities to Visp or Brig, then change to the Matterhorn Gotthard railway, which will take you directly to the centre of town. If you’re driving, you’ll have to park your car in Täsch, the last village before Zermatt, and then take a shuttle train or taxi. 

Helicopter transfers are also an option for those who prefer a grand entrance. No matter how you get there, your journey to this Swiss wonder promises to be as memorable as the destination.

Is Zermatt Easy To Reach?

Yes, Zermatt is relatively easy to reach. Although you can’t self-drive into the town, transfer and train options make this a smooth process, especially with the efficiency of Swiss train travel. The train takes you straight to the heart of the town centre.

Reaching Zermatt By Air

If you’re coming from afar, here’s our advice on travelling to Zermatt by air transport.

What Airport Do You Fly Into To Get To Zermatt?

If you plan to travel by plane, the closest airports to consider are Geneva, Zurich, Basel and Milan, which are all 3-4 hours away, and Sion, which is 1.5 hours away but unfortunately has limited flight options. 

It’s worth noting that Geneva can get quite busy, especially during peak skiing season.

Sion airport is the closest for luxury travellers if you’re considering a private jet. From Sion, you can book a helicopter transfer to Spiss in Zermatt. 

Air Zermatt and Top Transfers offer heli transfers, with the flight taking approximately an hour from Zurich and 45 minutes from Geneva.

Alternatively, if you’re flying from the United States, airlines like Scandinavian Airlines, Aer Lingus, and TAP Air Portugal offer flights to Switzerland, starting at around $210.

Save a significant amount on flights with deals from Daily Drop.

Once you’ve reached any of these airports, the quickest way to reach the Matterhorn village is by using a resort transfer service or the train. 

Is It Easier To Get To Zermatt From Zurich or Geneva?

Both routes are similar. The total journey time while driving is roughly 3.5 hours from Geneva and 4 hours from Zurich. A train would require at least one change in either Visp or Brig from either airport, and the total train journey time from either would also be close to 4 hours.

Travelling To Zermatt From Milan

The journey from Milan to Zermatt by train is relatively straightforward. The easiest journey is direct from Milan Central Train Station to Zermatt via Visp or Brig with only one change.

Journeys from Milano Porta Garibaldi go via Domodossola and require two changes. Travelling from Milan airport also requires a minimum of two changes.

Check both Trenitalia and SBB websites for the best ticket prices.

Airport Transfers

One of the easiest ways to get to Zermatt from the airport is with an airport transfer. Hire a private driver to bring you from the airport to Täsch or Spiss in Zermatt.

For a luxurious option, hire a car and driver from Top Transfers, these are one of the highest rated luxury transfer services in Switzerland.

Grab a more affordable option with Kiwi Taxi from Geneva, Zurich and Milan.

Arriving At Zermatt By Train

Arriving by train is a popular choice due to the town’s car-free policy. The Swiss rail network provides excellent connections from major cities and their international airports.

From Zurich or Geneva, you can take a direct train to Visp or Brig, before switching to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn, which then brings you to the home of the Matterhorn. This final leg of the journey offers beautiful views of the Swiss Alps.

Some train times will require two changes, double check your route before making your booking.

Train Journey Times from Major Airports

Below are the fastest journey times from nearby airports, the average journey times can be roughly 30 minutes longer. Take care to note your route and amount of changes before making your booking, as these can differ.

Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to clear arrival, immigration and baggage claim before boarding your train, especially if you book a non-flexible ticket.

Geneva Airport to Zermatt

• Fastest journey time: 3 hours 53 minutes
• Transfers: 1 (typically at Visp)
• Frequency: Approximately 39 trains per day
• First/Last departures: First train at 05:18, last at 00:36
• Ticket prices:
  • Standard fare: CHF 102
  • Saver Day Pass: CHF 52–106 (varies by availability)
  • With Half Fare Card: CHF 51

Zurich Airport to Zermatt

• Fastest journey time: 3 hours 32 minutes
• Transfers: 1 (typically at Visp)
• Frequency: Approximately 38 trains per day
• First/Last departures: First train at 05:38, last at 23:45
• Ticket prices:
  • Standard fare: CHF 106
  • Saver Day Pass: CHF 59–106
  • With Half Fare Card: CHF 53

Basel Airport to Zermatt

• Fastest journey time: 3 hours 32 minutes
• Transfers: 2 (typically at Basel SBB and Visp)
• Frequency: About 31 trains per day
• First/Last departures: First train at 05:56, last at 22:28
• Ticket prices:
  • Standard fare: CHF 104
  • Saver Day Pass: CHF 59–106
  • With Half Fare Card: CHF 52

Milan Malpensa Airport to Zermatt

• Fastest journey time: 4 hours 31 minutes
• Transfers: 2 (typically at Milano Centrale and Visp or Brig)
• Frequency: Approximately 37 trains per day
• First/Last departures: First train at 05:43, last at 22:43
• Ticket prices:
  • Standard fare: Approximately CHF 43
  • Saver Day Pass and Half Fare Card not valid for Italian portion

Discount Passes for Train Travel to Zermatt

If you’re traveling to Zermatt from a Swiss airport such as Geneva, Zurich, or Basel, the most cost-effective option is to book a Saver Day Pass or a Supersaver Ticket as early as possible.

These offer significantly reduced fares compared to standard tickets, especially when booked in advance.

For added flexibility and further savings—particularly if you’re taking more than one long-distance train—a Swiss Half Fare Card can be a smart addition, allowing you to purchase most tickets at half price.

For travelers spending several days in Switzerland or planning multiple train journeys, the Swiss Half Fare Card is usually the most economical and flexible solution.

If you’re planning to move around frequently, visit museums, and take scenic or mountain railways, the Swiss Travel Pass may offer the best value, as it covers nearly all transport and offers discounts on popular excursions like the Gornergrat and Glacier Paradise.

Are There Direct Trains To Zermatt?

Apart from the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn, there are no direct trains to Zermatt. All transport trains will require you to make at least one change in Visp or Brig. Only the Glacier Express sightseeing train from St Moritz directly connects the two resorts and its stops along the way.

Glacier Express Route: Zermatt, Brig, Andermatt, Chur, Filisur, and St. Moritz. 

Is the Glacier Express Worth It?

Yes, the Glacier Express is worth it if you’re looking for a relaxed, unforgettable way to take in some of Switzerland’s most stunning alpine scenery. The panoramic windows, comfortable ride, and iconic route between Zermatt and St. Moritz make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience—especially in good weather.

While it’s expensive and takes a full day, it’s ideal for slow travel lovers and train enthusiasts. Budget travelers can enjoy similar views on regional trains, but without the luxury and convenience

The SBB Luggage Transfer System

The Swiss train system offers various luggage transfer services that allow passengers to travel unhampered by their bags.

One option is the station-to-station service, where you hand in your luggage at one station and collect it at your destination station. This service is available at many but not all train stations in Switzerland. It costs CHF 12 per piece.

For those seeking greater convenience, there’s the door-to-door luggage service. With this service, your luggage is picked up from your address in Switzerland and delivered directly to your destination address within the country.

Lastly, there’s a same-day service called Fast Baggage. If you check your bag before 09:00, you can pick it up after 18:00 the same day. The cost for this service is CHF 22 per bag.

Are There Lockers At Zermatt Train Station?

Yes, luggage storage is available at Zermatt train station. The station provides both an office for left luggage and lockers.

The lockers are available in various sizes and are suitable for storing small to large luggage and ski equipment. Depending on the size, locker costs range from 5 to 13 Swiss Francs for 24 hours.

If you leave your luggage for longer, you simply have to pay an additional fee. Be careful not to put anything in the locker you need, to open and close it again you will have to pay another fee. Yes, I’m speaking from experience.

The train station also offers a luggage deposit service. This service allows you to deposit your luggage so that you have free hands during your visit.

Another option for departure day for those flying out of Zurich, is the Fly Rail service. This service costs 20 to 25 Swiss Francs per bag and ensures your luggage is on your flight to your destination.

Book your luggage storage online here with Stasher and store items of any size from CHF 6 per piece.

Driving To Zermatt By Car

You can either self-drive or hire a private transfer. Self-driving requires parking in the nearby village of Täsch and taking a taxi or train to Zermatt. A transfer may be able to drive to Spiss, or they will switch you to a local taxi once you arrive in Täsch. 

Only cars with a permit can drive the road between Täsch and Zermatt.

No cars can drive further than the village of Spiss in Zermatt. Transfers will drop you off at the Urania car park, and from there, you can take an electric taxi to your accommodation. 

Driving times to Täsch (Zermatt’s car park terminal)

Here are the approximate driving times to Zermatt from nearby airports, including a 12 minute train ride from Täsch to Zermatt.

Geneva to Zermatt ~3.5 hours (230 km)

Zurich to Zermatt: ~4 hours (254 km)

Basel to Zermatt: ~4 hours (230 km)

Milan to Zermatt: ~4 hours (282 km)

Sion to Zermatt: ~1.5 hours (75 km)

These times assume normal road conditions and no major traffic. In winter, weather and road closures (especially via mountain passes) can increase travel time, so always check road conditions ahead.

Where Can I Park My Car In Zermatt

Täsch is approximately 7 kilometres from Zermatt. There are parking facilities available to leave your car. These include indoor and outdoor options, with over 2,100 covered parking spaces available. The most convenient option is the Matterhorn Terminal at the train station.

Arriving In Zermatt From Täsch

Once you’ve parked your car in Täsch, regular trains operated by Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn will take you to Zermatt. The ride is only 12 minutes. Trains run every 20 minutes at 5 past, 25 past and 15 to the hour.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi or limousine from Täsch to Spiss. Some hotels also offer private shuttles for their guests.

Travelling To Zermatt From Interlaken

If you’re planning to hit up two of Switzerland’s most popular destinations in one trip, here’s how. Your journey will begin at either Interlaken Ost or Interlaken West stations. The usual route will have you catching a train from Interlaken to Spiez. 

From Spiez, you’ll then board another train to Visp. And once you get to Visp, you’ll switch to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn, and voila! You’re on your way to the town centre.

Why not take the scenic Glacier Express route if you’re feeling extra adventurous? Sure, you’ll have to leave Interlaken a bit early and travel to Andermatt, where you can board the Glacier Express, but trust me, the views are worth it!

One-way tickets from Andermatt start at around CHF 120.

Driving from Interlaken to Täsch takes roughly 2.5 hours via the car train and Visp or 3 hours on the non-car train route. Both routes are on toll roads and require a vignette. 

What Is A Swiss Vignette?

A vignette is a road tax sticker for your car in Switzerland. It is obligatory to have a vignette to drive on the country’s motorways, failure to do so will result in a CHF 200 fine.

The cost of a vignette varies depending on the vehicle and the duration of stay in Switzerland. For example, a vignette for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes costs CHF 40 per year.

An electronic vignette is also available. It is valid for the same period as the physical vignette and begins when it is successfully purchased.

The traditional paper vignette is an adhesive sticker. You must stick it to the windshield to be valid. The sticker is valid from December 1st of the preceding year until January 31st of the following year, providing 14 months of coverage.

Vignettes are compulsory on all national class 1 and 2 roads and can be purchased at customs, post offices, petrol stations near the border, and online.

Conveniently order an E-Vignette here.

Is There Campervan Parking In Zermatt?

If you’re travelling in your campervan, the closest campsite for vans and motorhomes is in Täsch. However, this campsite only operates from late April to October. The Matterhorn Parking in Randa offers affordable parking and sleeping options. 

Switzerland is strict about wild camping in a campervan, and the valley between Zermatt and Randa is a no-wild-camping area.

What Is The Best Way To Reach Zermatt?

The best way to reach Zermatt is by train. From reliability, scenery, and services like luggage transport, the train is more relaxing and efficient and delivers you straight to the heart of the town.

The train is the best way to reach Zermatt for several reasons:

Car-Free Village: Being a car-free town means vehicles are not allowed within the city limits to preserve its pristine environment and reduce noise pollution. As a result, the train is one of the few ways to reach the town centre.

Direct Access: The train takes you directly into the heart of the village, providing convenience and ease of access.

Scenic Journey: The train journey to Zermatt is known for its scenic beauty. On your way to the village, you can enjoy the stunning Swiss countryside and mountain landscapes.

Convenient Connections: Train services depart from Geneva and Zurich airports with only one change and connections every half hour. This makes the train a convenient option if you’re arriving by air.

Reliability: Swiss trains are famous for their punctuality and reliability, ensuring you arrive as scheduled.

Sustainability: Train travel is more environmentally friendly than driving or flying, aligning with the village’s sustainable ethos.

Luggage Transfer: The luggage service offered by SBB means you can travel light and luggage-free until you reach your final station or accommodation.

Although there are no direct trains, the journey is still worthwhile. You’ll traverse some of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes from the comfort of a train seat.

One last thing: Check when the baggage counter closes if you plan to use the luggage transport service. 

Travelling To Zermatt Affordably

Travelling to Zermatt affordably requires careful planning, but it’s possible. Here are some tips for journeying to this Swiss mountain village without breaking the bank:

Travel By Train: The cheapest way to travel is by train, with fares as low as CHF 51. If you’re travelling within Switzerland, consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout the country.

Look for super-saver tickets on SBB or buy a half-fare card if you plan to travel many trains within Switzerland over a year.

Book In Advance: Whether it’s your flight, train ticket, or accommodations, booking in advance can often secure you the best deals.

Skip the Taxis: Zermatt is a small village; most places can be reached on foot. Alternatively, you can use the free electric bus service.

Flight Options: Sometimes, flights to Milan are cheaper than to Switzerland. Check all airport and train combinations for the best deal.

How Do I Reach Zermatt From The UK?

There are many convenient ways to reach Zermatt from the UK, including overnight ferries and self-driving, trains that travel via London and Paris, and flights from and to nearby airports.

Travelling To Zermatt From London

Travelling to Zermatt from London can be done by train, plane or automobile, here’s all the ways how:

By Train: You can take a Eurostar train from London St Pancras to Paris, then connect to a train to Visp, where you switch to a local train to Zermatt. The entire journey takes around 12-13 hours.

By Air: Fly to one of the Swiss airports, such as Basel, Zurich, or Geneva, and then take a train to Zermatt. The train ride would take around four hours after your flight. 

Alternatively, you can fly into Sion, Geneva, Zurich, or Milan and use a ski resort transfer service to reach the village.

By Car: If you want to travel by car, you can take Le Shuttle from Folkstone to Calais or the ferry from Dover to Calais. Then, you can drive through France, cross the border into Switzerland near Jougne, and drive to Zermatt via Lausanne and Visp.

Travelling From The UK Via Ferry

Ferries from the UK to the Netherlands

Three main ferry routes are operating between England and the Netherlands. These include:

• Harwich routes to Hook of Holland
• Hull to Rotterdam
• Newcastle to Amsterdam

Ferry companies like P&O Ferries, Stenaline, and DFDS offer services from England to Holland. 

Ferries from the UK to France

Several ferry companies operate from the UK to France, including P&O Ferries, DFDS, and Brittany Ferries. Popular routes include Dover to Calais (P&O Ferries and DFDS), Portsmouth to Caen (Brittany Ferries), and Newhaven to Dieppe (DFDS). 

The frequency and duration of these services vary, with the shortest crossing (Dover to Calais) taking around 90 minutes. Remember to check the latest schedules and prices, as they can vary.

We have found the ferry from Dover to Calais the most convenient and cost effective, often being considerably cheaper than Le Shuttle in recent years.

Getting Around Zermatt

There are many ways to get around Zermatt, including walking, cycling, electro-taxis, and buses. The electro busses are free and have convenient routes to most of the town’s main areas, including the lift stations.

The Green Line runs between the three lift stations, while The Red Line journeys to the area of Winklematten.

Are There Taxis In Zermatt?

Yes, there are taxis in Zermatt, but they’re not your typical taxis. Since you’re visiting a car-free town, the taxis here are electric. These e-taxis are available 24/7 and can reach all roads in the village.

Several taxi companies operate locally, including Taxi Schaller and Taxi Christophe. A taxi ride typically costs between 20 to 40 Swiss Francs (CHF). Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle services upon arrival and departure for their guests.

The Mont Cervin Palace and The Zermatterhof also offer pick up and drop off by horse and carriage.

Final Thoughts

Reaching the picturesque town of Zermatt offers an adventure in itself. Whether you take in Europe’s stunning landscapes through a scenic train journey, opt for the speed and convenience of air travel, or enjoy the freedom of driving up to Täsch, there’s a mode of transport to suit every preference. 

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be greeted by the unique experience of a car-free town, where electric taxis and buses are ready to whisk you away to your accommodation. 

Regardless of your route, the journey to Zermatt is just the beginning of an unforgettable Swiss Alps experience. 

So pack your bags and let the adventure begin! Safe travels!