Zermatt Village & Gornergrat Railway Tour | From Bern

Bern , Switzerland

Zermatt Village & Gornergrat Railway Tour | From Bern

Active

(5 reviews)

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 wondrous Swiss history and charming culture, this adventure-filled, tour delves into the very best aspects of Switzerland.

Starting in the rural village of Zermatt, your tour guide will unpack the area's rich history, including its establishment and significant past events that have shaped it into a sought-after tourist destination. Surrounded by towering mountain peaks and verdant rolling hills, the visit to Zermatt Village offers an in-depth exploration into the town’s heritage and enchanting natural backdrop.

The adventure will continue with a scenic train ride to Gornergrat, where breathtaking panoramic views of Zermatt and the majestic Matterhorn can be enjoyed (subject to weather conditions). As you ascend toward the summit, the guide will share insightful knowledge about the historic Gornergrat railway. Arriving at the top of Gornergrat, a moment can be taken to absorb the dramatic backdrop of the Monte-Rosa region and Matterhorn.

Available options

Zermatt Village & Gornergrat Railway Tour | From Bern

What's included

Gornegrat Railway Pass

Meet & Greet at Bern Train Station (Instructions will be sent after booking)

Standard Rail Pass

Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Your guide will meet you at the Bern Train Station, 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 Monta-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 Bern.

What's not included

Lunch (can be purchased by card at Zermatt)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.2

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

Meeting point

Meet your tour guide inside the main hall of the Bern train station in front of the main departure board.

About Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene. With its charming arcades, picturesque fountains, and stunning views of the Alps, Bern offers a unique blend of history, nature, and modern Swiss life.

Top Attractions

Old Town of Bern

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring medieval architecture, arcades, and charming streets.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore

Bear Park (BärenPark)

A park along the Aare River where Bern's famous bears live in a natural habitat.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Bern Cathedral (Münster)

A stunning Gothic cathedral with a tower offering panoramic views of the city.

Architecture 1-2 hours CHF 7 for tower climb

Swiss Parliament Building (Bundeshaus)

The seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly, featuring impressive architecture and guided tours.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (guided tours may require booking)

Einstein Museum

A museum dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern, showcasing his life and work.

Museum 1-2 hours CHF 12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rösti

A crispy potato pancake, often served as a side dish or main course with various toppings.

Dish Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a pot over a portable stove, dipped with bread.

Dish Contains dairy, gluten (bread)

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served with Rösti.

Dish Contains dairy, meat

Bernese Platte

A hearty meat platter featuring various cuts of pork, sausages, and other accompaniments.

Dish Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Popular Activities

Paragliding in Interlaken Hiking in the Alps Skiing in the nearby ski resorts Boat trips on the Aare River Visiting the Rosengarten Enjoying a spa day Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to January

Summer offers pleasant weather and outdoor activities, while winter brings festive markets and skiing opportunities. Both seasons see higher tourist volumes.

15-25°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter) 59-77°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)

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

Bern is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, always be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Bern Airport • 7 km from city center
Zurich Airport • 120 km from city center

By train

Bern Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Bern Bahnhof

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and frequent service with easy-to-use ticket system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Bern, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Altstadt) Länggasse Bümpliz

Day trips

Thun

30 km from Bern • Half day to full day

A charming medieval town with a beautiful castle, scenic lake, and historic old town.

Interlaken

45 km from Bern • Full day to overnight

A popular adventure sports hub nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by the Alps.

Gruyères

60 km from Bern • Half day to full day

A picturesque medieval town known for its cheese, chocolate, and the famous HR Giger Museum.

Festivals

Berner Buskers Festival • June Christmas Markets • December Gurtenfestival • July

Pro tips

Use the Bernmobil app for real-time public transport information
Visit the Clock Tower for a unique experience and panoramic views
Explore the city's hidden courtyards and passages for a glimpse into its medieval past
Try local specialties like Rösti and fondue at traditional restaurants
Take a boat trip on the Aare River for stunning views of the city