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Your ultimate Christmas 2025 travel guide to Zermatt

Christmas in Zermatt blends snowy alpine scenery with softly lit village charm. Expect calm days, cosy evenings, and beautiful winter landscapes at every turn. Wooden chalets glow with warm lights, the Matterhorn stands quietly in the background, and the pace of the season feels unhurried and inviting, making it perfect for slow walks, quiet snowy views, and cosy dinners that linger into the evening.

Why spend Christmas in Zermatt

Tourists by Riffelsee Lake with Matterhorn reflection, near Zermatt, Switzerland.
  • A true winter wonderland: Zermatt almost guarantees a white Christmas. Snow-dusted chalets, frosted pine trees, and views of the Matterhorn create a picture-perfect alpine holiday atmosphere.
  • Car-free village charm: With no cars in the village center, the streets stay quiet and relaxed. You’ll walk through lantern-lit lanes, wooden houses, and cozy squares without noise or traffic.
  • Festive lights & seasonal warmth: The village glows with tasteful lights and holiday décor — not flashy or overwhelming, but warm and inviting. Evening strolls feel calm, intimate, and scenic.
  • Skiing & mountain adventures: Zermatt is a world-class ski destination, with high-altitude slopes open throughout winter. Whether skiing, snowshoeing, or simply riding the Gornergrat railway, outdoor experiences are a highlight.
  • Chalet dining & winter menus: Restaurants and mountain huts serve hearty seasonal dishes, fondue, raclette, mulled wine, and Swiss holiday pastries. Everything feels cozy, slow-paced, and comforting after time in the snow.
  • Quiet, peaceful holiday spirit: Christmas in Zermatt feels calm and unhurried. Think mountain stillness, soft lights, cosy dinners, and time to enjoy the snowy scenery at your own rhythm.

Top 6 things to do on Christmas in Zermatt

Attend Christmas Mass at St. Mauritius

The parish church in the village center offers Christmas services in a calm, reverent setting. The candlelit interior and alpine surroundings make this a meaningful option for visitors who enjoy cultural or spiritual traditions.

Take the Gornergrat Railway

Ride the historic cogwheel train up to Gornergrat for sweeping winter panoramas of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. It’s especially beautiful in the morning light or near sunset, when the mountain glows pink in the alpenglow.

Stroll through the festive village

Wander through the car-free lanes, wooden chalets, and softly lit streets around Bahnhofstrasse (railway station street) and the old village. Seasonal decorations, shop windows, and warm bakery scents create a cosy festive mood that’s perfect for leisurely strolling.

Ski on high-altitude slopes

Zermatt’s ski area stretches high into the mountains, ensuring excellent snow conditions at Christmas. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, you’ll find scenic runs with breathtaking views plus mountain huts to warm up in along the way.

Hike or snowshoe winter trails

Trails like the Riffelalp, Sunnegga, or Gorner Gorge paths offer peaceful winter scenery without needing to ski. Expect forest paths, snowy clearings, and quiet lookouts where the Matterhorn feels close and almost still.

Dine in cozy alpine chalets

Settle into a wooden chalet restaurant for fondue, raclette, or hearty seasonal dishes. Add mulled wine, hot chocolate, or festive pastries — perfect after a day out in the snow. Many mountain huts and village restaurants offer special holiday menus.

Your perfect Christmas itinerary

Day 1 – December 24 (Christmas Eve)

Morning

  • Arrive in Zermatt and settle in. Take a slow walk through the car-free village and enjoy the festive lights and snow-covered chalets.
  • Ride the Gornergrat Railway for wide Matterhorn views and calm alpine scenery.

Afternoon

  • Browse small boutiques and Christmas stalls along Bahnhofstrasse for local chocolates, wool accessories, and handmade gifts.
  • Stop for hot chocolate or mulled wine at a cosy café with mountain views.

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Swiss dinner — fondue, raclette, or a warm chalet-style meal (reserve ahead).
  • Attend Christmas Eve Mass at St. Mauritius Church for a peaceful, candlelit holiday atmosphere.

Day 2 – December 25 (Christmas Day)

Morning

  • Ski on the Sunnegga / Rothorn slopes for clear Matterhorn vistas.
  • Non-skiers: take the funicular to Sunnegga for winter walking paths and scenic viewpoints.

Afternoon

  • Take the cable car to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest lift-accessed station.
  • Enjoy glacier panoramas and relaxed, unhurried sightseeing before returning to the village.

Evening

  • Have a festive Christmas dinner at your hotel or a pre-booked restaurant offering set holiday menus.
  • End the day with a quiet stroll through softly lit streets and snowy lanes.

Know before you go: Christmas at Zermatt

  • Book early: Hotels, mountain restaurants, and Christmas Eve/Day dinners fill quickly. Reserve tables and key experiences in advance.
  • Car-free village: Zermatt is fully car-free. You’ll arrive via the shuttle train from Täsch. Within the village, you'll get around on foot, by electric buses, or by small licensed e-taxis (compact electric vehicles).
  • Dress warm: Expect cold alpine weather (around -8°C to 2°C). Bring layers, gloves, and waterproof shoes suitable for snow.
  • Ski conditions: Christmas brings reliable snow and fully running lifts. Book equipment rental or ski lessons ahead to avoid holiday queues.
  • Dining timing: Many restaurants offer festive set menus and earlier dinner seatings. Late-night dining is limited, so reservations matter.
  • Holiday hours: Shops and services may close early on Dec 24 and reopen later on Dec 25. Keep plans flexible and check timings locally.

Extend your visit to New Year’s Eve

Train traveling from Zermatt to Mount Gornergrat with Matterhorn in the background.

If your schedule allows, staying through New Year’s Eve offers a warm alpine celebration. The village gathers along Bahnhofstrasse with music, lights, and a friendly, communal atmosphere. Fireworks are limited, so the focus is on cosy dinners, snowy streets, and welcoming the new year beneath the Matterhorn.

Frequently asked questions about celebrating Christmas in Zermatt

Is Christmas a good time to visit Zermatt?

Yes. Zermatt is especially beautiful at Christmas, with reliable snow, festive lights, and a calm, cosy village atmosphere. Ski conditions are strong and winter walking trails are open.

What is Zermatt like at Christmas?

Expect snowy chalets, warm lights, and a relaxed holiday pace. The village feels intimate, with scenic winter views, comforting meals, and gently festive decorations.

Are things open on Christmas Day in Zermatt?

Ski lifts and many mountain restaurants operate on December 25. Some shops may open later or stay closed, and dinner options usually require reservations.

Does it snow in Zermatt during Christmas?

Zermatt has a high-altitude setting with reliable snow in December. While snowfall varies yearly, skiing and winter scenery are typically guaranteed.

Are the slopes crowded at Christmas?

It’s a popular period, but the ski area is large and lift systems are efficient. Booking rentals, lessons, and mountain restaurants ahead helps avoid delays.

Can I get around without a car?

Yes. Zermatt is car-free. Arrive via the shuttle train from Täsch and get around by foot, electric buses, or licensed e-taxis within the village.

Do restaurants offer festive menus?

Many restaurants and hotels serve special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day menus. Pre-booking is essential, as seating is limited during the holiday period.

Is midnight Mass available on Christmas Eve?

Yes. St. Mauritius Church typically holds candlelit Christmas Eve services. Check the schedule locally for exact times.