8 Best Things to do in Zermatt, Switzerland in the Summer

Planning a trip to Zermatt? You’re in for one seriously scenic adventure!

Zermatt is best known for its iconic Matterhorn views, world-class skiing, and charming car-free village, and after spending time here in summer, I quickly realized it’s so much more than a winter destination. Between glacier viewpoints, hiking trails, and surprisingly fun activities at higher altitudes, there’s a lot going on once the snow melts (well… mostly melts!).

In this guide, I’m sharing a mix of the best things to do in Zermatt in summer, from epic outdoor adventures and unique tours to more relaxed experiences and a few hidden gems we didn’t expect to love as much as we did. Let’s dive in!

Things to do in Zermatt in Summer

1. Follow a local expert through Zermatt’s best hiking trails

If you’re craving those unreal Swiss Alps views but don’t want to spend half your day figuring out where to go, this private guided hike makes things so much easier. It’s especially ideal if you like moving at your own pace and not being stuck waiting around for a big group.

This is a private tour, which honestly made a huge difference for us. We started around 9 am, and right away it felt way more relaxed than your typical group hike—no rushing, no awkward delays, just a day tailored to our pace and what we wanted to see. Our guide handled the route and lift passes, so we didn’t have to second-guess anything or worry about logistics.

What I loved most was that this isn’t just a standard trail. You’re taken to incredible spots like Gornergrat for sweeping glacier views and Stellisee, where the Matterhorn reflects perfectly in the water, making for incredible photos. I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect that reflection to be that impressive in person, but it completely lived up to the hype!

It also felt like we were let in on a few quieter viewpoints that we definitely would’ve missed on our own. That local knowledge is what really makes this experience worth it. If you want the best views without the stress (or the crowds), this is such a good choice!

2. Go paragliding around the Matterhorn

This tandem paragliding flight is the ultimate summer adventure in Zermatt! Not only does it deliver a serious adrenaline rush, but you get insane panoramic views of the Matterhorns and the surrounding Pennine Alps. 

What’s great about this tour is the fact that no experience is needed. Flights are suitable for both beginners and more adventurous visitors, and they depart from Rothorn, Gornergrat, or Riffelberg, depending on the season and weather conditions.

It’s only natural to be nervous, but don’t worry, because the professional pilots will guide you through safety instructions and explain the procedure before takeoff. Then, once you’re airborne, you’ll glide for between 20 and 25 minutes, which is actually a pretty long paragliding flight. And the views of Zermatt and the surrounding Alps are absolutely spectacular.

One of the best things about this flight is that it can be tailored to your comfort level. Your pilot will ask you whether you prefer a calm, scenic glide or a slightly more dynamic descent, and operate accordingly. Oh, and keep an eye out for wildlife below because deer and other alpine creatures are sometimes visible!

You will need either a one-way cable car or railway ticket to the takeoff point, which isn’t included with the price of your tour. However, your pilot will meet you at the funicular station on the day and help you to buy the right ticket, so no worries there. And we definitely think it’s worth it—as do hundreds of other happy reviewers!

3. Take the cableway to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

There are a lot of ways to see the mountains in Zermatt, but I genuinely think going up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is one of those experiences you just shouldn’t skip—especially in summer when you get that contrast of snow up top and green valleys below.

The experience starts on a high note because the gondola ride up is seriously impressive. Each section takes you higher above the green valleys and rugged peaks, and the village slowly disappears below. As we went up, we couldn’t stop staring out the window—it’s one of those rides where the journey is just as good as the destination.

At the top, the Glacier Palace was such a fun surprise. It honestly feels like Elsa’s ice palace from Frozen! It’s a maze of ice tunnels carved into the glacier, with sculptures and even a slide. Then, when you step out onto the observation deck, the views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding Alps are just unreal. 

If you want a break from the summer weather, heading up here is the perfect escape. Experiencing snowy peaks and glaciers in the middle of summer is such a unique experience that you won’t want to miss out on!

4. Walk the Five Lakes Trail

The Five Lakes Trail is easily one of the most scenic walks we did in Zermatt, so if you only have time for one hike while here, make it this one!

It gets its name from the five lakes you pass—Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee. Each one feels a little different, which kept the whole hike interesting without ever feeling repetitive.

Stellisee is the showstopper with those iconic Matterhorn reflections, but I actually loved Grindjisee just as much since it was quieter and more peaceful. We also stopped at Grünsee and Leisee, both of which are perfect for a break, and if you’re up for it, you can even go for a swim. I’d definitely pack a bathing suit, along with proper hiking shoes and sunscreen, since there’s not much shade.

The trail runs from Blauherd to Sunnegga and takes about 2.5 hours, but with the Sunnegga funicular, the gondola up to Blauherd, and plenty of photo stops, it’s more of a half-day outing. Getting there is easy, just take the funicular from Zermatt to Sunnegga, then continue up the gondola to Blauherd to start. The hike ends back at Sunnegga, so it’s super straightforward.

It’s considered a moderate hike and is best done between June and September when the trail is clear. If you want those classic Zermatt views without a full-day commitment, this is it.

5. Take private skiing lessons

I’ll be honest, skiing in the middle of summer felt a little surreal at first, but that’s exactly what makes Zermatt so special! Thanks to its high-altitude glacier, you can actually hit the slopes year-round, and this private lesson is such a fun way to experience it (whether you’re a total beginner or just rusty like I was).

What I loved most is that it’s completely tailored to you. Instead of awkwardly trying to keep up in a group, we had an instructor focused just on us, giving real-time tips that actually made a difference within the first hour. I was nervous about looking like a beginner, but that disappeared quickly with the help of our instructor! 

You meet right by the Sunnegga funicular, and from there it’s all about maximizing your time on the mountain. Not having to hunt down a ski school or figure out logistics was a huge win, especially in a place as busy as Zermatt.

This is easily one of the most unique things you can do here in summer—and honestly, I’d recommend it even if you’ve skied before.

6. Go mountain biking

If you’re even a little curious about mountain biking, Zermatt is such a fun place to try it, whether you’re a total beginner or already comfortable on the trails.

What surprised me most is just how many options there are. There are over 100 km of bike trails spread between Sunnegga and Rothorn, Schwarzsee, and Gornergrat, so you can choose anything from easy scenic rides to more technical descents.

If you’re new to it (like I was at first), Sunnegga is hands-down the best place to start. The Sunnegga Flow Trail is specifically designed for beginners, and it honestly felt like the perfect introduction—not too intimidating, but still really fun. Plus, the ride starts with those unreal Matterhorn views, which make the whole thing feel pretty special right from the beginning.

One of the biggest perks is that you don’t have to grind your way uphill. You can just take the funicular from Zermatt up to Sunnegga and start from there, which makes it way more approachable.

We rented bikes from Matterhorn Sport, but Slalom Sport is another popular option in town.

If you want a bit of adventure during your time in Zermatt, this is such a great way to experience the mountains!

7. Enjoy a guided walk through Zermatt Village

If you want to understand Zermatt beyond just the views, this 2-hour walking tour is such a great way to do it.

I’ll admit, at first I thought we could just wander the village ourselves—but having a local guide completely changed the experience. You start right at the train station (the only way into town), then quickly move beyond the busy main street into quieter corners we definitely would’ve missed on our own.

What I loved most was exploring Hinterdorf, the old part of Zermatt. Seeing those 200+ year-old barns and learning why the rooftops are made of stone made the whole place feel so much more interesting than just “cute alpine village” vibes.

The stop at the Mountaineers’ Cemetery was surprisingly memorable, too. It’s a bit sobering, but it really puts into perspective how intense climbing the Matterhorn is. Then you finish at a viewpoint near the Kirchbrücke bridge, which honestly might be one of the best photo spots in town.

Since it’s a small group, it never felt rushed or impersonal, which we really appreciated. If you like mixing a bit of history and local insight into your trip, we highly recommend doing this walking tour early on in your trip to get a better understanding of Zermatt.

8. Have a blast at Wolli Adventure Park

This was one of those places we almost skipped—and I’m so glad we didn’t. Wolli Adventure Park is basically an outdoor family play area set right in the mountains, and it’s even more fun than it sounds.

Up at Sunnegga near Leisee, it’s designed for kids but is honestly enjoyable for anyone who wants a more relaxed break from hiking. There’s a big alpine playground mixed with water features and games, a wooden raft you can pull yourself across the lake, and climbing structures and slides scattered around.

What I loved is that it’s not just one playground, but more like a small activity zone where kids can run around freely while you actually get to sit back and enjoy the views. There are also barbecue areas, so you’ll see families settling in for a proper lunch instead of rushing off.

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting to hang out as long as we did. But between the lake, the mountains, and the easygoing vibe, it turned into one of our favorite “slow” afternoons in Zermatt.

Related Read: Want more ideas? Our best things to do in Switzerland guide covers the best experiences in every season.

Where to Stay in Zermatt

So now that you know what to get up to in Zermatt during the summer months, you just need a cozy place to stay. Luckily, there are plenty of those here! We suggest staying in the village area because it’s super central, with lots of cute restaurants for relaxing. And with that in mind, we’ve outlined our top picks for every budget below:

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof – $$$ 

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof is a fantastic choice for luxury travelers in Zermatt. We love this palatial hotel because it perfectly blends historic charm with modern comforts. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with sleek bathrooms and beautiful mountain views. 

And as if that weren’t enough, the hotel has an incredible spa and wellness center. There’s an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, hot tub, and a fitness center, so you can fully unwind after a long day. On top of that, the on-site restaurant and bar make it easy to enjoy local and international cuisine without leaving the hotel.

The location is unbeatable, too. You’re right in the center of Zermatt, just a short walk from the train station and the Matterhorn Museum. It’s also perfect for skiing, hiking, and exploring the village. Rooms here start at around €800 per night, and there’s a 5-night minimum stay. Secure your stay here!

Alpen Resort & Spa – $$ 

Alpen Resort & Spa is a fantastic choice for travelers visiting Zermatt in the summer who still want easy access to the mountains. We love this hotel because it blends modern comfort with a peaceful alpine setting just a short walk from hiking trails and lifts. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, and the on-site dining is a highlight. The Matterhorn Restaurant serves classic Swiss dishes with an excellent wine list, while the Grill restaurant Hornox offers something for everyone, including vegan options.

Extra perks include free WiFi, complimentary transport from Zermatt Train Station, bike storage, and even an outdoor tennis court. The spa and wellness area is perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking or exploring. Nightly rates here start at around €300 or €400 during the summer. Check Booking.com for the best prices!

Youth Hostel Zermatt – $ 

Youth Hostel Zermatt is one of the few solid budget options in a town known for luxury stays. We love it for summer trips because it’s comfortable, affordable, and just a 10-minute walk from hiking trails and the village center. Some rooms even have Matterhorn views!

The hostel offers dorm beds, private rooms with shared or en-suite bathrooms, and barrier-free options, making it a great fit for solo travelers, friends, or couples. It’s an ideal base if you plan to spend your days hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying Zermatt without overspending on accommodation. Dorm beds start at around €60 per night, and double rooms with private bathrooms cost around €200 per night. Find out more and reserve your stay here!

Want more great options? Check out all the hotels in Zermatt listed here!

Related Read: Planning to explore beyond Zermatt? Check out our guide on where to stay in the Swiss Alps for the best areas and hotels across this stunning region!

Thanks for reading!

Planning a summer trip to Zermatt is actually way easier than it might seem! Between the lift system, well-marked trails, and incredible tours, getting around and experiencing the best of the Alps feels surprisingly effortless. From scenic hikes and glacier viewpoints to adrenaline-filled adventures like paragliding, this mountain town has so much more to offer beyond winter—and trust me, you’re going to fall in love with it!

If you’re continuing your travels, be sure to check out more of our Europe blogs here. We’ve packed them with tips, honest recommendations, and firsthand experiences to help you plan an unforgettable trip. Or get started with a few of our favorites below to spark your next adventure!

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