How to Spend TWO to THREE DAYS in Zermatt in Summer: 2 to 3-Day Summer Itinerary

Headed to Zermatt this summer and want to make the most of your time there? Look no further! 

Zermatt is easily one of our favorite mountain destinations in Europe, famous for its iconic views of the Matterhorn, incredible hiking trails, and a village atmosphere that (I promise, I’m not exaggerating) feels straight out of a postcard. 

But because there’s so much to see and do, it can be difficult to figure out how to squeeze everything in. That’s why we’ve put together this perfect two-to-three-day summer itinerary, packed with all the bucket-list highlights and experiences you won’t want to miss. 

Ready to experience the very best of Zermatt? Let’s get to it!

Itinerary Overview

We could happily spend weeks in Zermatt, but for most travelers, it’s just a short stop on a broader Swiss or European adventure. That’s why we’ve created this itinerary for a maximum of three days, mixing all the jaw-dropping mountain views and scenic outdoor activities with plenty of time to relax in the village (and if you’re like me, fantasize about living there!). 

If you’re headed there in summer, you’re in for a real treat. At this time of year, Zermatt is all about getting outside and enjoying the landscape, either by hiking alpine trails and riding the mountain lifts or just sitting by a lake with a coffee.

One of the best things about Zermatt is that the entire village is car-free. This gives the town an incredibly peaceful, charming atmosphere that feels completely different from other busy alpine resorts. And because the village is so compact and walkable, you’ll find that almost all the restaurants, bars, and activity meeting points in this itinerary can be easily reached on foot (super easy!). 

Just keep in mind, though, that Zermatt is very popular in the summer months for both local and international tourists, so it’s definitely worth booking your preferred mountain activities, popular restaurants, and summer tours well in advance so you don’t miss a thing! 

Before we get to the specifics of this itinerary, here’s a quick look at what you’ll be up to over the course of three days: 

Day 1: Soar above the village on a tandem paragliding flight, grab brunch, and take the cableway up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

Day 2: Choose between a guided hike to the best viewpoints or walking the classic Five Lakes Trail, followed by a quintessential alpine dinner.

Day 3: Take private summer skiing lessons or explore the village on a guided walking tour, then spend a relaxed afternoon up at Sunnegga.

Day 1

Morning – Soar above Zermatt on a tandem paragliding flight

Kicking off your first day with this tandem paragliding flight is an unforgettable way to dive straight into Zermatt’s scenery. The experience starts at 7:45 am and runs for about 2 hours, setting the tone for the rest of your trip with one of the most exciting activities on this itinerary. Since you’ll be up early, it’s best to keep breakfast light, especially if you’re not a fan of flying on a full stomach (trust us on this one).

No experience is needed, which makes this accessible whether it’s your first time or you’re chasing another adrenaline hit. Depending on the weather and season, flights take off from Rothorn, Gornergrat, or Riffelberg, all offering incredible vantage points over the Matterhorn and the surrounding Pennine Alps.

Before takeoff, professional pilots walk you through everything you need to know, so even nervous flyers will feel at ease. Once you’re in the air, you’ll glide for around 20 to 25 minutes, which is surprisingly long and gives you plenty of time to take in those sweeping alpine views. It’s one of those moments where everything just goes quiet, and you can’t help but look around in disbelief.

Another highlight is how customizable the flight is. You can keep things calm and scenic or ask your pilot for a more dynamic descent if you’re feeling brave. Keep an eye out below, too, as it’s not uncommon to spot deer and other alpine wildlife.

You’ll need a one-way cable car or railway ticket to reach the takeoff point, but your pilot will meet you at the funicular station and help you sort that out on the day. It’s a small extra step, but absolutely worth it—just check the hundreds of glowing reviews here if you need more convincing!

Brunch – Refuel at Zermama Bistro

After your early morning start and flight, you will have probably worked up quite the appetite! That’s why we’re sending you straight to Zermama Bistro, which is right in the heart of Zermatt. We love this spot because it’s super close to the foot of the Sunnegga Railway, making it a really convenient and easy stop between your morning and afternoon activities.

The menu offers options for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, and you can expect things like eggs cooked to order, fresh breads and croissants, cold cuts, local cheeses, muesli, yogurt, and fresh fruit. They also serve a hearty breakfast buffet daily until 11:30 am, or you can order from the à la carte menu. We couldn’t resist the buffet, and it was seriously so good! 

All of that, paired with a stylish, comfortable setting, makes it the perfect place to relax and swap photos from your morning flight! 

Afternoon – Take the cableway to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Once you’ve refueled, it’s time to head even higher, but this time by gondola. This visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise starts at 12:30 pm, and it’s only a 6-minute walk from Zermama Bistro, making it an easy next step in your day. The full experience lasts up to 4 hours, so you’ll be back around 4:30 pm.

There are plenty of ways to explore the mountains in Zermatt, but this is one you really shouldn’t skip, especially in summer. The contrast between the green valleys below and the snow-covered peaks above is something you don’t see every day.

The gondola ride itself is a highlight. As you climb higher, the village shrinks away, and the views just keep getting better. It’s one of those rare moments where everyone goes quiet because they’re too busy staring out the window.

At the top, the Glacier Palace is a fun surprise. It’s a network of tunnels carved into the ice, complete with sculptures and even a slide—yes, it really does feel like stepping into a real-life ice castle! Then you step outside onto the observation deck, and the views of the Matterhorn and surrounding Alps are on another level.

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!

Dinner – Restaurant Chez Max Julen

For your first dinner in Zermatt, we recommend Restaurant Chez Max Julen. It’s only about a 9-minute walk from where your afternoon tour finishes, so the location makes perfect sense. 

This is a specialty grill restaurant with a wonderfully rustic atmosphere and an open wood fire right in the dining room. We absolutely adore this spot because it gives you that warm, classic alpine feel that works so perfectly for a first evening in the village. The specialty here is grilled meats, and they also serve the Alpine classics, like Wiener Schnitzel and fondue chinoise.

Because it’s such a popular spot, it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time either on their website or by phone (and note that it’s closed on Tuesdays). 

Evening – Keep your first night in Zermatt nice and easy 

Today was a big day, so we recommend taking it easy this evening! After dinner, take a slow stroll through the village. The atmosphere in Zermatt in the evening is honestly so lovely, the streets are lively but relaxed, and you can often catch the last light hitting the peak of the Matterhorn if the sky is clear.

We loved just wandering past the traditional wooden chalets and soaking up the alpine vibe before heading back to our hotel for a good night’s sleep. You can nip into a bar for a nightcap if you like, but bear in mind you have an early-ish start for day two! 

Day 2

Breakfast – Fuchs Bakery & Cafe

Your second day begins at Fuchs Bakery & Cafe, which opens nice and early at 7 am (perfect, because you’ll need to eat before your morning tour!). Depending on which activity option you choose, your guide might be meeting you right at your hotel, so you may need to factor this in when deciding whether to eat in or grab something quick to go.

We love this spot because all their pastries are handmade right here in the village, and they have a huge selection of not only pastries, but also hearty sandwiches and baguettes. There’s also plenty of seating upstairs if you have time to eat in. 

We highly recommend trying their famous apple strudel. No, it’s not really a breakfast food, but it is incredibly good, and we’re firmly in the “vacation rules” camp here! 

Option 1: Morning – Follow a local guide through some of Zermatt’s most photogenic summer scenery

After breakfast, it’s time to get out into the Alps. This guided hiking experience starts at 9 am and lasts around 3 hours, making it a great way to spend the morning without taking over your entire day.

If you’re visiting Zermatt for the first time, this is one of the easiest ways to see the best viewpoints without having to plan anything yourself. With a local guide leading the way, you’ll visit some of the most scenic and photogenic spots in the area, including sweeping panoramas from Gornergrat, the famous Matterhorn reflection at Stellisee, and even quieter places like Gorner Gorge that many visitors miss.

Another big plus is that this is a private experience. Instead of sticking to a rigid group schedule, you can move at your own pace, stop for photos when you want, and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere overall. We found it made a huge difference—no rushing, no waiting around, just a really enjoyable hike with incredible views the entire time.

What really stands out is the local knowledge. Your guide knows exactly where to go for the best angles and fewer crowds, which means you’ll get a more authentic experience of Zermatt’s landscapes. It’s no wonder this tour has earned so many rave reviews—it’s a stress-free way to explore the mountains and easily one of the best ways to kick off your second day.

Option 2: Morning – Walk the Five Lakes Trail for one of Zermatt’s classic summer experiences

If you’d rather explore at your own pace, the Five Lakes Trail is a fantastic self-guided option for day two and one of the most classic summer hikes in Zermatt. It’s perfect if you want those iconic alpine views without needing a guide, and honestly, it ended up being one of our favorite experiences here.

The trail takes you past five different lakes—Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee—each with its own unique feel. Stellisee is the famous one with those postcard-perfect Matterhorn reflections, but Grindjisee was a personal favorite since it felt quieter and more peaceful. Along the way, there are plenty of spots to stop, relax, and even go for a swim if the weather’s warm, so packing a swimsuit isn’t a bad idea.

The official walking time is around 2.5 hours, but it works better as a half-day activity once you factor in getting there and all the photo stops you’ll definitely want to make. The easiest way to do it is to start in Zermatt village, take the Sunnegga funicular (17 CHF / about $21 USD), then continue up to Blauherd (16 CHF / about $20 USD), where the trail begins (find more pricing info here). From there, you’ll hike back down toward Sunnegga.

It’s considered a moderate hike and is best between June and September when the trail is clear. If you want incredible views without committing to a full-day trek, this is such a solid choice.

Lunch – L‘ Atelier Grandsire

After a busy morning of hiking, head to L’ Atelier Grandsire for lunch. This is an ultra-stylish bakery, cafe, and lunch spot where you can settle in for something lighter, but still incredibly satisfying and elevated.

For food, you can expect a mix of sweet and savory pastries, plus proper lunch dishes like pork belly, baked camembert, pastas, and soups. There really is something for everyone, whether you want something quick or a proper sit-down meal. Just keep in mind that the cafe is closed on Mondays, so if this spot is a must-visit for you, you may need to adjust your schedule. 

Afternoon – Your choice 

We’ve had a busy couple of days so far, so we want to give you some time to explore the area on your own!  

Here are a few suggestions:  

• Ride back up to Sunnegga and relax by Leisee lake – If the weather is good, this (in my opinion) is the best option! The Sunnegga funicular takes just 4.5 minutes from Zermatt, and in summer, the Leisee is absolutely stunning. It has incredible mountain views and an easygoing atmosphere, keeping the day outdoorsy without asking too much of your legs after a full morning of hiking.

• Visit Gorner Gorge – The gorge is only a 15-minute walk from the southern end of Zermatt village, and the visit itself is short and manageable. It takes about 20 minutes to walk through the wooden walkways suspended over the rushing water, so it’s not a huge commitment if you’re feeling tired! 

• Slow down at the Matterhorn Museum – The Matterhorn Museum is a nice contrast if you’re looking to learn a bit more about the local area and culture. It includes original village houses and fascinating objects connected to the first ascent of the Matterhorn. Just note that it’s open from 3 pm to 6 pm and costs just 12 CHF ($15 USD) per person, which is such a good value! 

There really isn’t a wrong choice here, just pick something that sounds good and go with it! 

Dinner – Restaurant Spycher 

For dinner tonight, we’re heading to Restaurant Spycher. This is an alpine restaurant with a ton of character and more of a traditional mountain feel compared to some of the other fine-dining restaurants in the area. 

The menu focuses heavily on local Valais flavors, which makes it the perfect place to try the hearty regional food that suits Zermatt so well! You’ll find dishes like raclette, cheese and meat fondues, and Zermatt lamb specialties cooked right over a wood-fired grill. We tried the raclette, and it completely lived up to the hype. But honestly, everything coming out of the kitchen looked spectacular! 

This restaurant is super popular with tourists, so we highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time. It’s also worth noting that they are closed on Wednesdays, so make sure to take that into consideration when planning your visit. If you’re only here for two days, this is a great place to wrap things up, but if you’ve got more time, day three adds a fun twist.

Related Read: Planning a bigger trip? Don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Switzerland here for more unforgettable experiences beyond Zermatt.

Day 3

Breakfast – Backzeit Bakery & Café Zermatt 

If you’ve got a third day in Zermatt—lucky you! It’s the perfect chance to mix things up and enjoy a different side of the mountains before you go. Start your final day at Backzeit Bakery & Café, which is a cozy and quaint coffee shop right in the middle of the village. Like other bakeries in the area, it opens at 7:30 am, making it a great stop for a light breakfast before your morning activity. Just keep in mind they’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

For food, you can expect a range of delicious pastries and excellent coffee—we had a croissant and a cappuccino, and both were divine. The atmosphere is also super welcoming, which is always appreciated. The bakery itself is only an 8-minute walk from the starting point for the skiing lessons, and only a 5-minute walk to the starting point of the walking tour, so you shouldn’t need to rush if you get there early enough! 

Option 1: Morning – Take private skiing lessons above Zermatt

If you’re up for something a little unexpected, this is hands down one of the coolest ways to spend your final morning in Zermatt. This private ski lesson starts at 9 am and runs for 3 hours, giving your last day a completely different feel from the hiking-heavy pace of day two.

Yes, you can actually ski here in the middle of summer—and it’s not just a gimmick. Thanks to Zermatt’s high-altitude glacier, the slopes are open year-round, which makes this a genuinely unique alpine experience. Whether you’re a total beginner or just a bit rusty, this lesson is designed to meet you exactly where you’re at.

One of the biggest advantages is that it’s completely private. Instead of trying to keep up with a group, you’ll have an instructor focused entirely on you, offering real-time feedback and tips that actually stick. We noticed a difference within the first hour, and any nerves about getting back on skis disappeared pretty quickly.

You’ll meet near the Sunnegga funicular, and from there, everything is taken care of, which is a huge bonus in a busy place like Zermatt. No figuring out ski schools or logistics, just showing up and getting straight into it.

It’s active, a little unexpected, and honestly just really fun. If you still want a high-alpine adventure before heading home, this is such a memorable way to wrap up your trip.

Option 2: Morning – Explore the village on a guided walking tour of Zermatt

If you’d rather take things a bit slower on your final day, this 2-hour walking tour is a great way to experience a different side of Zermatt. It starts at 10:30 am, making for a more relaxed morning and a nice option if you’d prefer culture and local insight over another active mountain adventure.

The tour begins right at the train station, the main gateway into town, and quickly moves beyond the busy streets into quieter areas you’d likely miss on your own. Having a local guide really changes the experience, adding context and stories that bring the village to life in a way that wandering solo just can’t match.

One of the highlights is Hinterdorf, the historic part of Zermatt, where you’ll see traditional wooden barns that are over 200 years old. Learning why they’re built the way they are (including those distinctive stone roofs) makes you appreciate the village on a whole new level. It’s not just a pretty place; it has a great story behind it.

The stop at the Mountaineers’ Cemetery is also surprisingly impactful, offering a glimpse into the risks and history tied to the Matterhorn. You’ll wrap up near the Kirchbrücke bridge, which doubles as one of the best photo spots in town.

It’s an easy, insightful experience that adds depth to your trip, and a great way to slow things down before heading home!

Lunch – MANUD 

After your morning activity, head over to MANUD for lunch. This is a really nice fit for day three as it’s a bit more contemporary compared to the more traditional alpine spots you’ve been visiting so far. 

MANUD focuses on serving local food and drinks, offering Valais wines, homemade kombucha, and iced tea. The menu is fresh and modern, with plenty of healthy, vegetarian, and vegan options available. We loved the relaxed vibe here; it’s the perfect place to reset before your final afternoon. 

Even though this is a more casual spot, it’s still a good idea to book a table on their website beforehand, just to be safe! 

Afternoon – Head up to explore Sunnegga

After lunch, you’ve got a few more hours to explore on your own before your last dinner of the trip. 

Here’s what we recommend doing: 

• Take the funicular up to Sunnegga – It’s incredibly easy to get to Sunnegga from Zermatt on the funicular. This is such an easy, low-stress way to get back up into the mountains for those big views without needing another massive hiking effort! 

• Spend some time at Wolli Adventure Park – If you’re traveling with family, this will likely be the main focus of your afternoon! It’s a relaxed, family-friendly spot with an adventure playground, water games, a wooden raft, and barbecue areas. Because there’s so much to do, plan on spending a couple of hours here. 

• Relax by Leisee: The adventure park sits right near Leisee, so you can easily spend some time just sitting by the lake. We recommend at least stopping by if you haven’t already on this trip. 

However you spend it, this is your time to relax, enjoy the views, and make the most of your final afternoon in Zermatt.

Dinner – Restaurant Schäferstube

For your final dinner, we’re sending you to Restaurant Schäferstube. This is an old-school alpine restaurant that is bursting with character. The ambiance is pure cottage charm, with wooden beams and a really cozy, welcoming feel.

The menu highlights the best regional favorites (you should be familiar with the classics by now), like raclette, cheese and meat fondue, and specialty lamb dishes. We took the opportunity to try the cheese fondue with a selection of meat, which felt like the perfect way to cap off a wonderful visit to the Swiss Alps! 

As a word of advice, make sure to make a reservation ahead of time, as this particular restaurant is very popular.

Evening – Celebrate your final evening in Zermatt

To round off your trip, we recommend taking a little time to celebrate your final evening in Zermatt. 

If you’re in the mood for a drink, the Brown Cow Pub or Hexenbar Zermatt offers the perfect setting to end your trip on a high note. Both are super popular downtown spots that always have a fun, lively atmosphere. You’ll find a great mix of local wines and beers, and if there’s something you haven’t tried yet, don’t be afraid to ask the bartender for a recommendation.   

Alternatively, one of the nicest things to do is simply wander through the village after dark. The streets will still be lively (but still relaxed), and the whole place has that classic, magical alpine atmosphere. Even if you only stop for one quick drink before heading back to pack, you’ve got to make the most of those last few moments with an evening stroll!  

Related Read: Spending more time here, check out our guide to the best things to do in Zermatt in summer, packed with can’t-miss activities and local favorites to add to your trip.

Where to Stay in Zermatt

So now that you know how to spend your time 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!

Spending two to three days in Zermatt in the summer is the perfect way to experience everything that makes this mountain town so special. From paragliding above the Matterhorn and hiking through alpine landscapes to skiing on a glacier or simply relaxing by a lake, it’s a destination that blends adventure with those slower, “take it all in” moments. We hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time here without feeling rushed.

Before you head off, be sure to check out our other Europe travel guides here for more ideas and inspiration. We’ve explored some incredible destinations and love sharing the experiences that truly stand out. Or keep reading below for a few more guides to help plan your next trip!

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