Zermatt, a picturesque town nestled in the Swiss Alps, is not just famous for its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, its world-class skiing slopes, and hiking trails, but also for its unique approach to transportation. The town is a car-free zone, which gives it a charming, peaceful atmosphere and encourages sustainable travel methods. As a frequent traveler, I found Zermatt to be an incredibly easy place to navigate. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting around Zermatt, from public transport options to local taxis, so that you can enjoy the beauty of this alpine town with ease.
Arriving in Zermatt
Getting to Zermatt is an experience in itself. The town is not accessible by car, which means that after arriving in Switzerland, you’ll need to take public transport to reach Zermatt. Most visitors arrive via train, either from major Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva, or Bern, or from the nearby town of Visp, where you can catch a connecting train to Zermatt. The journey offers some of the most stunning views of the Swiss Alps, setting the tone for the rest of your trip.
Once you arrive at the Zermatt train station, you’ll immediately notice the absence of cars and the pristine mountain air. This is because Zermatt has been a car-free zone since the 1960s, and only electric vehicles and horse-drawn carriages are allowed on its streets.
Getting Around by Train
One of the most convenient ways to get around Zermatt is via the network of local trains. Zermatt’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use, with several trains running regularly to key destinations around the area.
Gornergrat Railway
The Gornergrat Railway is one of the most iconic trains in Zermatt. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the town. The railway takes you on a scenic journey up the Gornergrat, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers. I took the Gornergrat Railway on my first visit to Zermatt, and I can honestly say that the experience was unforgettable. The train ride is both relaxing and awe-inspiring, with each turn revealing more jaw-dropping views of the Alps.
The Gornergrat Railway departs regularly from the Zermatt train station and takes you up to the summit in about 30 minutes. There are multiple departure times throughout the day, and it’s best to check the schedule beforehand, especially if you want to catch the train during peak hours.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Another essential train ride is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which is accessible via the Matterhorn Glacier Express. This is the highest cable car station in Europe and offers a stunning view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The journey is exhilarating, and the station at the top is a fantastic place to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or simply take in the vast expanse of the Alps.
While this train ride is less about getting around town and more about reaching spectacular viewpoints, it is an important part of Zermatt’s transportation offerings for tourists.
Local SBB Train Network
For getting around the town of Zermatt itself, there are local trains that serve the area. The local SBB trains connect the train station with various neighborhoods and tourist attractions. These trains are quick, frequent, and very efficient. You’ll often find yourself using them to get from your hotel to the station, especially if your accommodation is a bit further from the main town center.
Electric Taxis
Though Zermatt is car-free, getting from one part of town to another is still very possible with electric taxis. These vehicles are small, quiet, and eco-friendly, making them a perfect fit for the car-free environment. The electric taxis are available at the train station and throughout town, and they are typically easy to hail.
How to Use Electric Taxis
The electric taxis in Zermatt are not as numerous as traditional taxis in other cities, but they are still an essential mode of transport for those looking to reach more remote parts of the town or travel with luggage. You can call for a taxi at the Zermatt station, or you may also be able to request one through your hotel. The taxi drivers are friendly and speak good English, and they are more than happy to assist with luggage and give tips on navigating the town.
One of the benefits of using electric taxis in Zermatt is their ability to take you directly to your accommodation if it’s located outside the main pedestrian zone. I found them to be particularly useful after a long day of hiking or skiing when I didn’t feel like walking back to my hotel.
Taxi Fares
The fare for an electric taxi in Zermatt is relatively affordable, especially when compared to cities in other parts of Europe. A typical ride within the main town area will cost around CHF 10 to CHF 20, depending on the distance. The fares increase slightly if you are traveling to the outer parts of Zermatt or if you need the taxi for a longer period of time. Despite the town’s small size, taking a taxi can be a quick and comfortable way to get around, especially for those with heavy luggage or tight schedules.
Electric Car Rentals
If you’re not keen on using public transport or taxis, Zermatt offers the option of renting an electric car. While the town is car-free, there are a few car rental companies that offer electric vehicles which are allowed to travel through certain parts of the town. This can be a great option if you plan to visit other areas in the region, or if you want to have a bit more freedom to explore Zermatt and its surroundings at your own pace.
How to Rent an Electric Car
Renting an electric car in Zermatt is relatively straightforward. There are several rental agencies in the town that offer electric vehicles for both short and long-term rentals. Most agencies will require a valid driver’s license and a booking in advance, particularly during the busy tourist season. You can also arrange for an electric car rental through your hotel, where they can provide helpful recommendations and even assist with the booking.
Where to Drive
Once you rent an electric car, you’ll be able to drive around certain parts of Zermatt, but you’ll need to park your vehicle outside the town center since Zermatt itself is off-limits to all but electric vehicles. There are several designated parking areas near the town’s entrance, where you can park your car and then take the local shuttle or a taxi into the main town area. This option can be particularly useful if you want to visit nearby areas like Täsch or Randa.
Getting Around by Foot and Bicycle
Zermatt is a pedestrian-friendly town, with most of the main attractions, restaurants, and shops located within walking distance from each other. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets of the town center or walking along scenic hiking trails, walking is one of the best ways to get around.
Bicycles and E-Bikes
If walking isn’t your style, you can easily rent a bicycle or an e-bike to get around Zermatt. The town offers a variety of bike rental options, and the flat terrain makes cycling a pleasant and easy way to explore the town and its surroundings. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can opt for an e-bike to assist you in tackling the more challenging hills around Zermatt.
During my visit, I rented an e-bike from a local shop and spent the afternoon riding through the valleys and up the hills surrounding the town. The experience was exhilarating, and I was able to cover a lot more ground than I would have on foot. Zermatt is a cycling-friendly town, and I highly recommend it for those who enjoy being outdoors and want to explore the area in an eco-friendly way.
Zermatt offers a wide variety of transportation options that make it easy to get around despite its car-free status. Whether you choose to explore the town by foot, hop on an electric taxi, rent a bike, or take one of the scenic trains, you’ll find that getting around is not only easy but also part of the charm of this stunning alpine destination. The combination of public transport, electric taxis, and eco-friendly options like bicycles ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Zermatt while keeping your carbon footprint low.
