Your driver will meet you at your address in Zurich.
Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage
Trip
You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 30 min.
Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly
Drop-off
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Zermatt.
Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage
In total
215 km3 h 30 min
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Zurich to Zermatt
What is the easiest way to get to Zermatt?
The easiest way to get to Zermatt from Zurich is to drive with Daytrip. You can encounter transfers and lengthy stopovers if you don't drive and instead take the bus or train. In addition, the bus doesn't always offer trips between the two cities, and train schedules can change suddenly.
What is the best way to get from Zurich to Zermatt?
The best way to get from Zurich to Zermatt is to drive with a private car service like Daytrip. Daytrip guarantees a comfortable and seamless travel experience, with sightseeing stops and luxury seating to sit back and relax during your trip. Daytrip is also affordable, reliable, and flexible, so you can choose when you travel.
What is the coldest month in Zermatt?
In Zermatt, the coldest month is January, with temperatures often sitting at around 30°F (-1°C). In contrast, the hottest month in this Swiss paradise is Jully, with the average temperature sitting around 66°F (19°C) during July. As you can tell, it doesn't get very hot in Zermatt, which means more snow.
How many days should you spend in Zermatt?
You should aim to spend two to three days or three to four nights in Zermatt, as this will give you enough time to explore the mountains and the town itself. However, note that this can be expensive, considering Zermatt isn't the most affordable trip in Switzerland.
How much does it cost to take a train from Zurich to Zermatt?
The cost of traveling the distance between Zurich and Zermatt by train will depend on whether you purchase a standard or first-class ticket. If you buy a standard ticket, you should expect to pay between $56 and $111(€52-€103) per trip.
What is the most scenic train route from Zurich to Zermatt?
The most scenic route to travel from Zurich to Zermatt is the route Daytrip takes. Not only will you have access to alpine views, but you will also get to stop and sightsee the most breathtaking locations. For example, you can ask your driver to stop at Lucerne, Zug, or Mount Rigi.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,600+ cities around the world.
Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
After being entertained well into the wee hours by Zurich's lively nightlife, you might be looking for a more relaxed and quiet trip that is no less invigorating, even if for different reasons. A car trip from Zurich to Zermatt with Daytrip is the perfect travel solution. Zermatt is a gateway location to the majestic, sharply pointed peaks of the Swiss Alps and is home to one of the most famous mountains in the world—the Matterhorn.
Zermatt is a Swiss resort town well known for its ski slopes and stunning natural landscapes. The town is car-free, so getting to Zermatt can be tricky, so you should consider driving with Daytrip. Our professional door-to-door service will drop you off in Tasch just before Zermatt in a pre-determined allowable drop-off zone, and you can begin your adventure in the mountains.
However, before you get to Zermatt, you should explore a few places along the way. There is Zug, a medieval market town and tax haven; Lucerne, a natural beauty with its frescoed buildings, lakeside setting, and impressive mountain views; and Mount Rigi, Europe's oldest alpine railroad, promises adventure and panoramic views. These are just a taste of what can be found along Daytrip's route. So book ahead and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime when driving from Zurich to Zermatt in Switzerland.
About Zermatt
Zermatt is a resort town in Switzerland located at the foot of Matterhorn Mountain. Visitors will notice that it is a car-free destination, which has helped it preserve its authentic character. Since the 1860s, the town has drawn visitors thanks to the ultimate Swiss icon—the Matterhorn—looming over it.
Those who visit will notice that the town has more to see than simply the mountain landscapes. There are also winding alleys, old-fashioned brown chalets, and many restaurants and hotels where you can enjoy a meal and stay warm in the winter.
Hundreds of thousands of visitors drive from Zurich to Zermatt every year because its location at the foot of the Matterhorn and in the middle of a huge ski and hiking region make it one of the most popular resort towns in the world—especially during the winter. The ski region known as "Matterhorn glacier paradise' features 54 railways and lifts and 224 miles (360 km) of pistes. With so much snow to traverse, you might see many professional ski teams training in the summer.
Besides the snow and unrivaled winter sports opportunities, Zermatt offers travelers a bustling and charming village to explore. From gourmet mountain restaurants, sophisticated live music, and old churches to charming shops, little cafes, and an enlightening museum that tells travelers much about the region's history.
So those seeking a unique holiday destination with high mountain scenery, incredible winter hiking trails through snowy landscapes, and a charming village welcoming of strangers will want to add Zermatt to their travel bucket lists.
From Zurich to Zermatt: travel tips
Traveling from Zurich to Zermatt can be a daunting experience. So, there is no need to make it harder by ignoring a few travel tips that can help ensure your experience is exciting and iconically memorable. Look below to learn more about the must-know travel tips you need to keep handy when traveling this route.
### Make sure you prioritize what you want to see along the way
When you decide that a Zurich to Zermatt transfer is on the horizon for your next travel trip, you must prioritize what you want to see along the way. Even though Switzerland is a country that can be crossed in only a few hours, its smallness doesn't mean there is less to see and do. In fact, the country has many cultural and historical landmarks worth exploring, especially when traveling from Zurich to Zermatt.
If you plan on driving with Daytrip, you should stop and explore places like Stockalper Palace, a stunning 17th-century palace built as a private home, and the Goms Suspension Bridge, which allows you to walk far above the Rhone before you reach the award-winning mountain village. But don't forget to speak with your driver about other places along the way worth visiting. They might not be tour guides, but they know the region.
### Book your hotel in advance
The distance between Zurich and Zermatt by car is about 143 miles (230 km) and by train about 130 miles (210 km). Both options take three to four hours if traveling directly, which can be a big stretch for some.
Since Switzerland and its cities are so popular, accommodation is filled quickly, so plan ahead by booking in advance. Not only will you likely save money—which is good for budget travelers—but you will also be guaranteed a place to stay between your travels.
In addition, if you think you'll simply rent a bed in a dormitory or a rustic cabin, think again. These accommodations fill just as quickly as the more high-end hotels, so don't count on it.
### Make sure you budget properly
It's no secret that Switzerland is much more expensive than other travel destinations. Everything from the country's food and accommodations to public transportation and attractions—including its ski passes—is expensive.
It's more expensive than you might be used to or prepared for, so it's imperative to budget properly and budget extra. Yet, the light at the end of the tunnel is that although it's expensive, it's worth it, as a drive from Zurich to Zermatt is one of the most beautiful adventures you'll partake in in your lifetime.
How to get from Zurich to Zermatt
The distance between Zurich and Zermatt might be close, but it is tricky to get between the cities. Since there is no airport in Zermatt, you won't be able to fly, but you can take a bus, train, or drive with the private car service Daytrip. Let's look at each option to help you decide which is best for your travel needs.
### Zurich to Zermatt by bus
The bus is often much cheaper than the train or a private door-to-door car service. However, it is the slowest method of transportation and is far less comfortable than traveling with a car service like Daytrip.
If you're on a budget, you should consider booking a bus with ALSA or Flixbus. Both buses offer ticket prices between $33 and $56 (€31-€52). A trip from Zurich to Zermatt will take about four and a half to six hours by bus, and direct routes are often available during peak seasons.
However, buses don't depart for this route very often, and you might encounter multiple transfers outside of peak season travel, which can increase your travel time.
### Zurich to Zermatt by train
Those who want to enjoy scenic views while traveling sustainably often choose to travel from Zurich to Zermatt by train. If you want to travel by train, you must book with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). The price of a ticket is usually between $56 and $111 (€52-€103), depending on whether you book a standard-class ticket or a first-class ticket.
Unfortunately, the trip can be complex since you must change trains in Visp. It can take between three and a half and four hours. You will also have to contend with train schedules and timetables that could change, and there is limited luggage space.
### Zurich to Zermatt by private car transfer service
When you travel with a private car service like Daytrip from Zurich to Zermatt, you won't need to worry about whether or not your trip will be direct and if a timetable change will impact your trip. Daytrip offers reliable travel between the Swiss cities, and you can pick when, where, and what time you will travel.
Driving with Daytrip is also far more comfortable, with luxury cars and private English-speaking drivers navigating the winding roads. Daytrip is also just as fast as the train, with a trip taking between three and a half and four hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and whether you travel directly or sightsee.
On average, a seat with Daytrip costs about $117 (€109), which is quite affordable. You will also have plenty of room for your luggage, which your driver will handle, and you can sit back and relax as you watch the Swiss countryside pass you by.
Things to do when you get to Zermatt
When you take a Zurich to Zermatt transfer, you're likely mentally planning what you can see and do in Zermatt based on your research. However, sometimes you don't have plenty of time to focus on what you'll get up to when visiting a new place. That's where we come in. We've shared a few of the best things you can do when you get to Zermatt besides skiing on its glorious mountain slopes.
### Gornergrat
Everyone should consider visiting Gornergrat at least once during their lifetime. This 3,089 m high mountain range offers unforgettably glorious views of Matterhorn. These panoramic views cannot be seen elsewhere and will leave a mark on your memory.
While visiting the Gornergrat summit, you can also enjoy some fine dining at Europe's highest-altitude hotel. The Kulmhotel Gornergrat offers delicious cuisine at its restaurant, and you can choose to visit the hotel's attractive shops or astronomical observatory. We also recommend spending the night if you have the budget and can book far enough in advance.
### 5 Lakes Walk
If you love hiking, you should consider participating in the Five Lakes Walk. This walk takes place in the Zermatt mountains and offers hikers a variety of experiences and glimpses of the Matterhorn. The path of the Five Lakes Walk will lead you past Grindjisee, Stellisee, Moosjisee, Grunsee, and Leisee. Each of these lakes is very different from the others, with varying characters, shapes, sizes, and colors. Also, each lake has its own special attraction.
For example, the Leisee is one of the best for swimming, while the Grunsee is a lake overlooking a rugged landscape perfect for pictures. Then there is the Grindjisee, which is home to rare flowers that you shouldn't pick but that you can admire. The other lakes offer their own treasures, which you can learn more about when visiting.
### Matterhorn Museum
The Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt is an imaginative contemporary designthat draws the eye and invites visitors to enter its doors. This museum was founded in 2006 and, ever since, has been teaching travelers more about the history of the village of Zermatt.
If you choose to visit the museum, you can expect to explore a multimedia room that showcases imagery of the first ascent of the Matterhorn. This expedition tragically ended, but it helped make the village a place avid explorers sought out. You'll also get to see the real-life rope that snapped during the first expedition and learn what the region's original houses looked like.
The Matterhorn Museum also honors record-breakers who have climbed the Matterhorn with photos and facts about them and shows the different mountain routes one can traverse.
When is the best time to visit Zermatt?
Those who want to drive from Zurich to Zermatt and visit Zermatt when the weather isn't quite as frosty should consider visiting between June and September. The weather is warm, with an average daily temperature of about 69° Fahrenheit (20.5°C).
If you want to visit during the cold, snowy season and enjoy the dramatic mountain landscapes dominated by white peaks, you should visit between December and March. During these months, the average temperature consistently falls below 45°F (7°C).
However, Zermatt is an outdoor enthusiast's dream destination regardless of when you decide to visit, whether at the height of summer or the lows of winter. There is plenty to do out on the slopes and in the town, with food, culture, and shopping to enjoy just as much as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and swimming.
Visit these sights on the way
Zug
Hugging the shores of Lake Zug, this medieval market town has become a tax haven maintaining its historic landmarks. Historic Haven
Lucerne
With a well preserved history, frescoed buildings, lakeside setting and impressive mountain views, Lucerne is a delight to behold. Pretty as a Picture
Mount Rigi
Europe’s oldest alpine railroad take visitors up this massive massif, which provides panoramic views all the way into France and Germany. Queen of the Mountains
Devil's Bridge over Schöllenen Gorge
According to legend, building a bridge over the Schöllenen Gorge was so difficult, it took the Devil himself to make it. You Shall Not Pass
Goms suspension bridge
Walk almost 100 meters above the Rhone to reach the award-winning mountain village of Ernen. The Great Divide
Stockalper Palace
This stunning mansion was the largest private home built in Switzerland in the 17th century. Hall of the Merchant King
“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”
“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”
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traveler Daydream20046758137
“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”
“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”
“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”
“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”
“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”
“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”
“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”
“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”
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traveler Omar
Good to know
Children
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!
Pets
Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.
Tips
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Luggage
Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm
Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Payment methods
Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!
Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.
Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.
For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.
Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!
Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.
Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.
