The Matterhorn, with its iconic pyramid shape, is one of the most recognizable peaks in the world.

Standing at 14,692 feet (4,478 meters), it ranks as the 12th-highest mountain in the Alps, part of a group of around 80 peaks that exceed 4,000 meters in height.

The Matterhorn straddles the border between Switzerland and Italy, with only its south face located in Italy. While most visitors approach the Matterhorn from the Swiss side, it’s also visible from Italy. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your visit, choose the best base for exploring, and discover the activities and attractions available throughout the year.

Getting to the Matterhorn from Switzerland

Zermatt, located in the Swiss canton of Valais, is the gateway to the Matterhorn and the surrounding area. This charming, car-free village serves as the main base for visitors exploring the mountain. The nearest parking area is in Täsch, about 6 kilometers from Zermatt. Visitors must leave their cars here and take a short 12-minute train ride into the village.

Alternatively, many travelers arrive by train from Visp, which is about an hour away. The train journey itself is a scenic experience, offering breathtaking views year-round. Regional trains from Visp run every 40 minutes, or you can choose the Glacier Express, a panoramic train ride that connects St. Moritz to Zermatt, passing through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Alps.

Getting to the Matterhorn from Italy

On the Italian side of the Matterhorn, known as Monte Cervino, the nearest town is Breuil-Cervinia, located in the Aosta Valley. This popular resort town, developed for both winter and summer tourism, is accessible via the SR46 road, which links it to the northern Aosta region. The town is part of the Cervino Ski Paradise, a network of ski lifts and gondolas that connect directly to the Swiss side of the Matterhorn.

Things to Do at the Matterhorn

The activities you can enjoy around the Matterhorn depend on your fitness level, interests, and the season you visit. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:

1. Winter

Winter is the peak season at the Matterhorn when the ski arena comes alive with skiers and snowboarders. The main ski areas include Klein Matterhorn-Schwarzsee, Gornergrat-Stockhorn, and Sunnegga-Rothorn (ideal for beginners). In addition to skiing, there are hiking and snowshoeing trails, as well as snow parks for tubing and sledding.

2. Spring

This is a quieter time to visit, with fewer crowds after March, making it easier to find accommodations. It's a great time for non-skiers to explore. If you're interested in the region's mountaineering history, a visit to the Matterhorn Museum in Zermatt is a must. Remember to pack warm layers for mountain excursions, as temperatures can still be chilly in higher altitudes.

3. Summer

Summer is brief but beautiful around the Matterhorn, with pleasant weather at lower elevations and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect time for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Gondolas and ski lifts operate in the summer, taking visitors to stunning trailheads and prime Matterhorn viewing spots. The Gornergrat scenic cog railway is a fantastic way to explore, especially when combined with a hike to Riffelsee, a high-altitude lake offering spectacular views of the Matterhorn.

4. Fall

Autumn, as a shoulder season, is a wonderful time to visit if you want to avoid crowds or prefer a more relaxed experience. Take a walk through the Gorner Gorge, a stunning river cavern near Zermatt, or ride the Sunnegga funicular and walk back down to Zermatt, stopping at mountain huts in Findeln for lunch. A traditional Swiss rösti at Findlerhof is a must-try.

Where to Stay Around the Matterhorn?

In Zermatt, you’ll find several high-end 5-star hotels, including the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, located in the heart of town, and the Riffelalp Resort, accessible via the Gornergrat railway. Over in Breuil-Cervinia, the Saint Hubertus Resort, a 4-star upscale hotel with fantastic Matterhorn views, stands out. For a budget-friendly option, the 3-star Hotel Marmore, located centrally, is a solid pick.

Tips For Your Visit

View Without Adventure: Many visitors simply come to admire the view, without ever hitting the slopes or hiking trails. However, using cable cars, ski gondolas, or scenic railways to reach higher elevations will offer stunning views of the iconic peak and surrounding mountains.

Prepare for Changing Weather: The weather in the mountains can shift rapidly, so it's essential to dress for all conditions. Don’t forget sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses, especially in winter. If you plan on walking or hiking, consider bringing hiking poles to help with stability on uneven terrain.

Keep Your Fingers Crossed for Clear Views: While the Matterhorn is a must-see, there's no guarantee of a perfect view. Cloud cover or rain can obscure the peak, but taking mountain transportation to higher viewpoints increases your chances of catching a glimpse of Europe’s most famous mountain.

World's Fastest Person to Climb the Matterhorn | Dani Arnold

Video by Red Bull