12 BEST Day Trips from Zermatt, Switzerland (2026)

Q: Which city is close to Zermatt?

Some of the closest cities to Zermatt are Visp , Brig , and Sion . These towns are easy to visit as day trips from Zermatt, Switzerland by train.

Q: Which legendary train can you take from Zermatt to go to St. Moritz?

The Glacier Express is the legendary train that connects Zermatt to St. Moritz. This world-famous ride is one of the best day trips from Zermatt for train lovers, with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps through scenic valleys and over dramatic mountain passes.

We’ve been to Zermatt multiple times and have done these day trips by train, car, and cable car.

This list covers the best places to visit near Zermatt, plus seasonal notes and a few guided tours we’d book again.

This guide covers 12 of the best day trips from Zermatt, including nearby cities, scenic lakes, cross-border adventures into Italy, and some unforgettable train rides.

We’ll also share seasonal tips, what to expect at each destination, and a few guided tours we truly loved.

Snow-covered view of the Matterhorn towering above a ski lift station on a clear winter day. This is one of the best day trips from Zermatt for panoramic alpine scenery.

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12 BEST Day Trips from Zermatt, Switzerland

Best For	Day Trip	Travel Time	Activity
🍝 Food	Lake Como	3.5 hours by car	Lake Como Food Tour
🥾 Hiking	Kandersteg	2.5 hours by train	15km Guided Hike with a Swiss Triathlete
🍷 Wine	Sion	1.25 hours by train	Wine and Dine Vineyard Walk
🏔️ Scenery	Jungfrau Region	3.5 hours by train	Swiss Alps Countryside Tour
🚤 Boating	Stresa	3 hours by train	Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore’s Borromeo Islands
🏰 Culture	Lake Geneva	2.5 hours by train	Chillon Castle

Zermatt is an amazing place to base yourself, not just for the Matterhorn views, but also for how well connected it is.

With direct train lines, scenic mountain routes, and even quick access into Italy, it’s easy to explore more of the region without changing hotels every night.

We loved spending a few extra days here and using it as a hub to venture out to lakes, cities, and quieter mountain towns. Here are our favorites!

Quick picks

Best classic Switzerland day: Jungfrau Region
Best lake day: Lake Geneva (Montreux and Chillon)
Best Italy day: Domodossola or Stresa
Best hike: Kandersteg (Oeschinensee)
Best easy half-day: Visp and Brig

Need help choosing the right day trips for your dates? Send us your trip window, and we’ll map it out and book it for you.

#1 – Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau Region is packed with bucket-list spots and makes an incredible (but full) day trip from Zermatt.

Take the train to Interlaken (about 3.5 hours), then continue on to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, depending on your plan.

A viewing platform at Harder Kulm extends over a forested ridge with snowy peaks and lakes below. This is a popular stop on train trips from Zermatt if you're heading toward the Jungfrau Region.

You can ride the funicular up to Harder Kulm for views over the lakes in Interlaken, head to Grindelwald First for hikes and thrills (ziplining and mountain carts), or take the train up to the Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe.”

It’s a lot to fit into one day, so pick what matters most to you: scenery, activities, or quieter villages. We especially loved Lauterbrunnen for the waterfalls and peaceful feel, but Grindelwald is great if you want more to do.

We recommend this Swiss Alps Countryside Tour as the best way to experience the peaceful side of the Jungfrau Region.

You’ll walk through alpine farms in Wengen, see incredible views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and Jungfrau, and even stop to buy cheese and ice cream straight from local farmers.

A tall waterfall cascades down a massive cliff above a bright green valley with Lauterbrunnen’s name painted in front. If you're looking for places to visit near Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen’s waterfalls are an unforgettable pick.

If you’re crazy about waterfalls like we are, take this Waterfalls Day Tour out of Interlaken.

You’ll explore the full beauty of Lauterbrunnen Valley, with stops at Staubbach and Trümmelbach, plus time to enjoy the alpine villages and glacier-carved cliffs along the way.

We loved how the tour combined big waterfall views with quiet moments at the lake and historic spots like the Giessbach funicular.

#2 – Lake Como, Italy

Visiting Lake Como from Zermatt in one day is a long trip, but totally worth it if you’re traveling by car. It takes about 3.5 hours each way, so plan to leave early and stay into the evening.

We drove to Como, spent a few hours exploring, then boarded a private lake cruise, which was easily the best part of the day. The views from the water are stunning, with mountains, villas, and small towns lining the shore.

Colorful buildings line the lakefront in a village on Lake Como, with lush cliffs rising behind. This Zermatt to Lake Como day trip is ideal by car if you want a taste of Italian lakeside charm.

You can book a one-hour cruise or stretch it longer if you want to visit spots like Bellagio or Varenna.

We kept it simple with lunch, a walk along the promenade, and gelato by the lake. The Italian food alone makes the drive feel worth it.

This is a great change of pace from the Swiss Alps if you’re craving warm weather, good pasta, and a relaxing day with amazing lake views.

#3 – Lake Geneva

A day trip to the Lake Geneva area from Zermatt is doable by train, but it’s a long day. This trip gives you a totally different feel from the mountains.

It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours each way, with connections through Visp or Lausanne. You won’t have time to do it all, so we suggest picking one or two main stops.

Chillon Castle sits on the edge of Lake Geneva with a dramatic cloudy sky behind it and the Swiss flag flying above. This is a must-see on day trips from Zermatt Switzerland that focus on culture and history.

We visited Montreux and Chillon Castle, a classic combo with a lakefront walk and one of Switzerland’s most famous castles.

If you’re into food and wine, Vevey and the nearby Lavaux vineyards are also a great choice. Wine tastings are easy to book and give you awesome views over the lake.

Lausanne has more of a city feel with museums like the Olympic Museum, while Geneva is better if you want international sites like the UN Headquarters.

This area is perfect for warmer weather, long lakeside lunches, and a totally different vibe from Zermatt.

#4 – Bern

A day trip to Bern from Zermatt is an easy and worthwhile escape from the Alps. The train ride takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way with one transfer in Visp.

Bern’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s one of the most walkable cities we’ve visited. Cobblestone streets, clock towers, fountains, and arcades make it feel historic without being too touristy.

A statue in the middle of a Bern street stands tall between historic buildings and a modern red tram passing by. This is one of the best cities close to Zermatt and makes a fun, easy day trip by train.

We booked a guided walking tour of the old town, which gave great context about the city’s layout, history, and hidden spots we wouldn’t have found on our own. It also gave us time to relax and just enjoy the atmosphere without planning every stop.

After the tour, we grabbed lunch, walked the riverside paths, and had a drink at Restaurant Rosengarten.

#5 – Stresa, Italy (Lake Maggiore)

Stresa is one of the best lake towns to visit from Zermatt if you want an Italian day trip with a bit of luxury.

The train ride takes about 3 hours each way with one or two connections, usually through Visp and Domodossola. Once you arrive, walk along the promenade or grab lunch with a view before heading to the water.

The Borromean Islands sit in the middle of Lake Maggiore, viewed from a classic stone terrace along the shore. Scenic boat rides like this make for easy day trips from Zermatt to Italy.

We recommend a Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore’s Borromeo Islands, which includes stops at Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre. Each island has something different. Palaces, gardens, quiet streets, and the boat gives you great views the whole time.

#6 – Kandersteg

A day trip to Kandersteg from Zermatt takes about 2.5 hours by train with a transfer in Visp.

Once there, ride the gondola up to Oeschinensee, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful alpine lakes.

A breathtaking view of Lake Oeschinensee’s turquoise water surrounded by steep cliffs and snow-covered mountains, captured from a high vantage point above the lake.

You can hike down or take the Rodelbahn, a summer toboggan run that’s quick, fun, and has amazing views.

For a more active experience, we recommend a 15km Guided Hike with a Swiss Triathlete, which climbs to elevations around 2,000 meters and loops around the lake. It was a tough hike, but one of our favorite days in Switzerland.

You’ll pass waterfalls, forests, and mountain views the whole way. We also saw so many Alpine ibex!

#7 – Gornergrat & Glacier Paradise

A trip to Gornergrat & Glacier Paradise technically isn’t a day trip, but you’ll spend your whole day riding up the mountain on the Gornergrat cogwheel train and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car, then exploring once you reach the top.

Looking down toward Zermatt from the Glacier Paradise gondola, the snowy mountains stretch endlessly into the distance. One of the most iconic things to do near Zermatt, this cable car ride takes you up into serious alpine terrain.

The Swiss Travel Pass gives you 50% off both the Gornergrat train and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise lift.

In summer, you can do high-altitude hikes, visit the Hörnlihütte, or try paragliding above the town.

Picking a reputable company is so important! Below is the company we trust to give you the best experience:
Matterhorn Paragliding

Winter is prime time for skiing and snow sports on both sides. When we rode up, we paused at the ice palace, watched skiers from the top station, and took our time admiring the Matterhorn at every turn.

#8 – Sion

A day trip to Sion from Zermatt is an easy escape, about 75 minutes by train, with one change in Visp.

Aerial view of the hilltop castles of Sion, Valère, and Tourbillon, with the town and vineyards below.

We loved wandering the old town alleys and visiting the two hilltop castles, Valère and Tourbillon, which both have great views.

We loved the Wine and Dine Vineyard Walk, where you taste local wines while strolling between vines with a guide. It’s a simple, delicious way to experience Valais culture and scenery in one stop.

#9 – Aosta, Italy

A day trip to Aosta, Italy from Zermatt brings a taste of Italian alpine life. It takes roughly 2.5–3 hours by train and bus (via Martigny), so plan a full day.

Ancient Roman ruins rise against the mountains in Aosta’s old town, with snow-dusted peaks in the distance. This is one of the most unique day trips from Zermatt Switzerland for history and local food.

We loved wandering through Roman ruins like the Arch of Augustus and the amphitheater. The narrow streets are lined with cafes and shops selling polenta and local cheeses.

A foodie favorite is a Walking Food Tour, where we stopped at family-run bakeries, gelato spots, and salumerias to sample mountain-style dishes. It’s a relaxed, delicious way to feel the town’s heritage and flavors.

#10 – Saas-Fee

A day trip to Saas‑Fee from Zermatt is easy, just a 90‑minute train and bus ride, but it feels quieter and more tucked away than Zermatt.

Chalets and hotels sit on the hillside in Saas-Fee, surrounded by pine trees and backed by high alpine peaks. This peaceful, car-free village is one of the best day trips from Zermatt Switzerland for travelers who want glacier views and fewer crowds.

Saas‑Fee is less crowded, car‑free, and has a calm alpine charm with glacier views around every corner.

We recommend a Foxtrail, a fun mix of sightseeing, scavenger hunt, and an escape game. It’s a clever, interactive way to explore Saas‑Fee’s streets, squares, and mountain backdrop in a playful, memorable way.

#11 – Domodossola, Italy

A day trip to Domodossola, Italy, from Zermatt is surprisingly easy, taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes by train with one change in Brig.

A wide view of Domodossola shows the town nestled between dramatic green peaks under a bright blue sky. This is one of the easiest day trips from Zermatt to Italy, perfect for food, wine, and relaxing streets.

This charming town feels Italian but relaxed, with colorful buildings, a lively square, and shops selling cheeses and salumi. We enjoyed wandering through the historic center and browsing local markets.

A standout was the wine tasting at Azienda Vitivinicola Edoardo Patrone, where we sampled full-bodied reds surrounded by vineyards just outside town. It added warmth and flavor to our day, and we loved learning about Piedmont wines with friendly recommendations from the owners.

#12 – Visp and Brig

A day trip to Visp and Brig from Zermatt is seamless, just a 25-minute train ride to Visp, then another 15 minutes to Brig, all included with your Swiss Travel Pass.

Visp is a compact town perfect for a relaxed morning stroll. We stopped by the local market and walked along the Rhône River.

Stockalper Palace in Brig, Switzerland, with its distinctive onion-domed towers, stone facade, and surrounding green gardens set against a backdrop of alpine mountains and a cloudy sky.

Brig feels more historic, with the impressive Stockalper Palace. It’s a 17th-century baroque palace with turrets, arcades, and alpine views. You can take a guided tour or just explore the gardens and courtyard on your own.

We loved grabbing a coffee in the old town before heading to the Brigerbad Thermal Baths, just a short bus ride away. There’s a large outdoor pool, thermal grotto, saunas, and even a water slide if you’re up for fun.

Finish the afternoon with a train ride back to Zermatt, feeling refreshed and culturally grounded.

Best Day Trips from Zermatt by Train

Some of the best day trips from Zermatt are easy to reach by train, and the Glacier Express is hands-down the most memorable.

We rode it from Zermatt to Chur and couldn’t stop staring out the window. The giant glass panels make it feel like you’re inside the scenery.

The Glacier Express train winding through a snowy mountainous landscape, surrounded by pine trees and cliffs.

You’ll pass through mountain tunnels, across dramatic bridges, and along winding rivers, all while sitting comfortably with table service if you want it.

You can book a section of the Glacier Express as a one-way ride and return by regular train to make it a full day trip.

The Glacier Express is included with the Swiss Travel Pass, but you’ll still need to pay a seat reservation fee, which starts around CHF 29. We reserved panoramic seats and thought it was totally worth it.

If you want a scenic experience without hiking, this is a great way to see the Alps. It’s one of the best train rides we’ve done anywhere in the world.

Best Day Trips from Zermatt to Italy

It’s easy to take day trips from Zermatt to Italy, especially if you’re craving great food, relaxed streets, and a different culture for the day.

You can reach Domodossola in under two hours by train. It’s a small town with cobblestone alleys, shops, and fantastic pizza.

Stresa on Lake Maggiore is a bit farther but worth it for lakeside views and ferry rides.

Lake Como is best with a rental car and makes for a long but scenic day. You’ll cross the Alps on the way, which is part of the fun.

For something historic, Aosta has Roman ruins and hearty Italian mountain food.

Best Day Trips from Zermatt in Winter

Winter day trips from Zermatt give you a chance to explore more of the Alps while staying in a snowy, scenic setting.

A panoramic view of Zurich in winter, with snow-covered rooftops and a tall red church spire rising above the old town, set against rolling hills in the distance.

A day trip to Zurich from Zermatt in winter takes about 3.5 hours each way by train, but it’s doable if you want a quick dose of big-city holiday lights, museums, or shopping.

Saas-Fee is great in winter with its quiet vibe, glacier views, and easy winter walking trails. You can get there in under 90 minutes by train and bus.

Brig also works well in winter. It’s a quick train ride and home to the relaxing thermal baths at Brigerbad, perfect after cold days outside.

Best Fondue in Zermatt – TOP 10 Places + Map

Best Day Trips from Zermatt in Summer

Summer is the best time to take day trips from Zermatt, especially if you love hikes, lakes, and mountain views.

Kandersteg is our top pick. You can ride the gondola to Oeschinensee and hike around one of Switzerland’s prettiest alpine lakes.

A unique view of Lake Oeschinensee in Switzerland, with turquoise water framed by snowy mountains and a thin waterfall spilling from a rocky overhang in the foreground.

Sion is great in summer too, with castle ruins, old town strolls, and wine tasting if you’re into local food and drink.

Lauterbrunnen also shines in the warmer months. The valley is full of waterfalls, and you can hike or take trains to villages like Mürren and Wengen.

FAQs for Day Trips from Zermatt, Switzerland

Is Interlaken a day trip from Zermatt?

Yes, Interlaken is a possible day trip from Zermatt, but it’s a long one! It’s about 3.5 hours each way by train.

Which city is close to Zermatt?

Some of the closest cities to Zermatt are Visp, Brig, and Sion. These towns are easy to visit as day trips from Zermatt, Switzerland by train.

Can you take the Glacier Express from Zermatt?

Yes, the Glacier Express starts in Zermatt and runs all the way to St. Moritz. It’s known as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, with panoramic windows, slow travel through the Alps, and stunning views of valleys, bridges, and mountain passes.

Which legendary train can you take from Zermatt to go to St. Moritz?

The Glacier Express is the legendary train that connects Zermatt to St. Moritz. This world-famous ride is one of the best day trips from Zermatt for train lovers, with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps through scenic valleys and over dramatic mountain passes.

Can you do a day trip from Zermatt to Italy by train?

Yes, Domodossola is the easiest.

Use Zermatt as Your Base to See Even More

Zermatt is the best home base for exploring lakes, castles, and even quick trips into Italy, all without switching hotels.

We’ve done every trip on this list and loved how easy it was to see more of the Alps without the hassle.

If you’re planning your trip, check out our Zermatt itinerary and grab your Swiss Travel Pass to make things even simpler.

We wish you the best travels, and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!”

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Switzerland Travel Planning Guide

🚙🚄 Is renting a car or public transportation better in Switzerland?

For traveling in Switzerland, we recommend using public transportation. Switzerland’s train system and other public transportation options are some of the best in the world.

We always buy the Swiss Travel Pass, which provides access to trains, funiculars, boats, lifts, and buses. It also gives you free access to over 500 museums.

Renting a car in Switzerland has its pros and cons. Pro: You get the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit remote areas. Con: Parking can be expensive and challenging in cities. When we rent a car, we always use Discover Cars for reliable service.

📲 Will my phone work in Switzerland?

Maybe, but it will be expensive! Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe.

To use your phone in Switzerland and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo. Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel.

There is not a lot of free WIFI in Switzerland, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.

🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Switzerland?

While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime.

NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.

🏩 What’s the best way to book my Switzerland accommodations?

Our go-to for Switzerland hotels is Booking.com. They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.

✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to Switzerland?

For finding cheap flights to Switzerland, we recommend Kayak. Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive.

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is usually our airline of choice while in Switzerland.

🚐 Should I book tours in Switzerland? Do the guides speak English?

We LOVE taking tours in Switzerland.

We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English.

For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk.

🚑 Should I buy Switzerland travel insurance?

100% YES! Switzerland has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the LAMal (L’Assurance Maladie Obligatoire), also known as the Swiss Health Insurance Law, which provides basic health insurance to all Swiss citizens and legal residents!

Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend Safety Wing – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!

💧Can you drink the water in Switzerland?

Drinking water in Switzerland is exceptionally safe and clean. You can drink tap water anywhere, and it’s often better than bottled water.

There are many public fountains in cities and towns where you can fill your water bottle. If a fountain is not safe to drink from, there will be a sign indicating this. Generally, no sign means the water is safe to drink.

For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.

🎫 Do I need a visa for Switzerland?

Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries do not need a visa for short stays.

For travelers from many other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, no visa is required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, always check the latest visa requirements before you travel, as rules can change.

💸 What currency is used in Switzerland?

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller purchases.

🗣️ What languages are spoken in Switzerland?

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.