Zermatt Village & Gornergrat Railway Tour | From Zurich

Zurich , Switzerland

Zermatt Village & Gornergrat Railway Tour | From Zurich

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Combining captivating Alpine landscapes with Swiss history and charming local culture, this adventure-filled tour highlights the very best of Zermatt and its surroundings.

Your guide will meet you at Zurich train station for pick-up and introduce Zermatt’s rich heritage, including its founding and key historical events that shaped it into a premier Alpine destination. Wander through Zermatt Village, surrounded by towering peaks and lush valleys, and discover its charming streets, traditional architecture, and stunning natural backdrop.

Continue the adventure with a scenic train ride to Gornergrat, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Zermatt and the iconic Matterhorn (weather permitting). Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights about the historic Gornergrat railway. At the summit, take time to soak in the dramatic vistas of the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa region before descending, with drop-off at Zurich train station at the end of the tour.

Available options

Zermatt Village & Gornergrat Railway Tour | From Zurich

What's included

Standard Rail Pass

Meet & Greet at Zurich HB (Instructions will be sent after booking)

Local Guide

Gornegrat Railway Priority Passes

Detailed itinerary

Your guide will meet you at Zurich HB, before whisking you away to Zermatt.

Beginning with an enriching trip to Zermatt Village, your friendly tour guide will explain the town’s heritage, including the unique story behind its foundation and an insightful discussion of the monumental events that shaped Zermatt over the centuries. Formerly an agricultural community, Zermatt Village now stands as a bustling tourist attraction that’s adorned with lush Alpine greenery and mountainous backdrops.

The charmingly agrestic destination is tucked in between the grand peaks of the Pennine Alps, where Monte Rosa and the iconic Matterhorn mountain can be admired. Upon wandering through Zermatt Village, you’ll be fully immersed in Swiss culture, where boutique shops, local restaurants, and a thriving après-ski scene await exploration. Featuring a compact layout with just three major streets across the banks of the Matter Vispa, it’s easy to comfortably explore most of the town during your visit, ensuring you experience the best sights Zermatt has to offer!

Continuing the tour, a scenic train journey will transport you up to the historic Gornergrat Bahn, the first electric rack railway to be built in Switzerland, dating back to 1898. The railway stretches between the resort village of Zermatt and the summit of the Gornergrat, where the station sits at an altitude of 3,089 m (10,135 ft).

As the train proceeds up the mountain, you’ll be able to gaze upon gorgeous Alpine views of the Monte-Rosa region, surrounding glaciers, the Matterhorn mountain, and Switzerland’s highest peak, the Dufourspitze mountain. Upon reaching the summit, views of the 29 surrounding mountain peaks and several glaciers, including the Gorner Glacier (which is the second longest glacier in the Alps!), can be observed.

After a full day of adventure, your guide will return you safely to Zurich.

What's not included

Lunch (can be purchased by card at Zermatt)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and traditional Swiss charm. Nestled between the Alps and a beautiful lake, it offers a unique mix of financial hub activity and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Europe.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Altstadt)

The historic heart of Zurich, with medieval streets, charming squares, and beautiful architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

Lake Zurich

A beautiful lake offering scenic views, water activities, and relaxing walks along its shores.

Nature Half day or more Free (activities may have costs)

Uetliberg

Zurich's local mountain, offering hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to escape the city.

Nature Half day CHF 12.80 for the train ride

Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)

A comprehensive museum showcasing Swiss history, culture, and artifacts from prehistoric times to the present.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 10

Kunsthaus Zurich

One of Switzerland's most important art museums, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, often served with Rösti (Swiss potato pancake).

Main Dish Contains meat and dairy.

Rösti

A Swiss potato pancake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Side Dish Vegetarian.

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a pot, enjoyed by dipping bread into it.

Main Dish Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.

Zürcher Trout

Fresh trout from Lake Zurich, often served with lemon and herbs.

Main Dish Contains fish.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Alps Skiing at nearby resorts Paragliding over Lake Zurich Boat cruise on Lake Zurich Visiting spas and wellness centers Picnicking in parks Exploring museums and galleries Attending concerts and festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to February

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, lake swimming, and festivals. Winter brings Christmas markets and skiing opportunities. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

15-25°C, -2-5°C 59-77°F, 28-41°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Zurich is generally very safe with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Zurich Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Zurich Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Carparkplatz Oerlikon, Carparkplatz Triemli

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are efficient, punctual, and cover most of the city's attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi 433

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Altstadt) Zurich West Kreis 5 (District 5) Kreis 4 (District 4)

Day trips

Lucerne

60 km from Zurich • Full day

A picturesque city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the famous Chapel Bridge, and its location on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Rapperswil

40 km from Zurich • Half day

A charming town known as the 'Town of Roses' and its historic castle, offering beautiful views of Lake Zurich.

Mount Titlis

60 km from Zurich • Full day

A popular ski and hiking destination in the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views and year-round activities.

Festivals

Zurich Christmas Market • Late November to late December Sechseläuten • Third weekend in April Zurich Film Festival • Late September to early October

Pro tips

Purchase a Zurich Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions
Visit the Old Town early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the historic atmosphere
Take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich for stunning views and a relaxing experience
Explore Zurich West for a trendy and creative vibe with unique shops and restaurants
Try Swiss chocolate and pastries at Confiserie Sprüngli, a must-visit for chocolate lovers