Travel Budget for Zermatt Visit Zermatt on a Budget or Travel in Style

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is a breathtaking town known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're skiing on the slopes, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Zermatt, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Zermatt?

You should plan to spend around $275 (Sfr242) per day on your vacation in Zermatt. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $102 (Sfr90) on meals
  • $55 (Sfr49) on local transportation
  • $261 (Sfr230) on hotels

A one week trip to Zermatt for two people costs, on average, $3,846 (Sfr3,388). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $275
    Sfr242
  • One Week Per person
    $1,923
    Sfr1,694
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,846
    Sfr3,388
  • One Month Per person
    $8,242
    Sfr7,260
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,846
    Sfr3,388
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $7,692
    Sfr6,776
  • One Month For a couple
    $16,484
    Sfr14,520
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Zermatt cost?

A one week trip to Zermatt usually costs around $1,923 (Sfr1,694) for one person and $3,846 (Sfr3,388) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Zermatt on average costs around $3,846 (Sfr3,388) for one person and $7,692 (Sfr6,776) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Zermatt will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Zermatt on average costs around $8,242 (Sfr7,260) for one person and $16,484 (Sfr14,520) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Zermatt expensive to visit?

Zermatt is a popular town that attracts plenty of visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

You may find Zermatt to be expensive in some places, but there are ways to keep your budget in check, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $121 (Sfr106) per day, mid-range travelers spend $277 (Sfr242) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $528 (Sfr462) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Zermatt.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Zermatt is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Skyros or Lemnos.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Zermatt Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Zermatt?

The average Zermatt trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Zermatt travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Zermatt cost?

Zermatt on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$57
(Sfr50)
$130
(Sfr115)
$249
(Sfr219)
Local Transportation 1 $24
(Sfr21)
$55
(Sfr49)
$105
(Sfr93)
Food 2 $45
(Sfr39)
$102
(Sfr90)
$196
(Sfr172)
Entertainment 1 $26
(Sfr23)
$58
(Sfr51)
$112
(Sfr98)
Alcohol 2 $6-19
(Sfr6-17)
$15-44
(Sfr13-39)
$28-84
(Sfr25-74)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's essential to keep realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many people think they can visit Zermatt cheaply, but most travelers aren't comfortable with an extreme "shoestring" budget. Consider what you truly enjoy on vacation. Do you prefer resorts, vacation homes, or hostels? Is experiencing attractions and dining important to you? Your budget and itinerary will depend on your answers to these questions.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $121 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

Thankfully, Zermatt offers plenty of hostels such as Zermatt Youth Hostel. You can find budget-friendly dorm accommodation here, paired with a social atmosphere, but expect limited amenities. Food is also a highlight for all types of visitors to Zermatt, but budget travelers often dine on street food or cook meals in their hostel, so they may not always experience the delicious cuisine.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. Many visitors to Zermatt are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $277 per person, per day.

Zermatt boasts a wide array of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or children, thus reducing your expenses. Families should prioritize hotels and restaurants that are geared toward kids. Firefly Luxury Suites is an excellent family-friendly option, while Chesa Valese is also superb. For couples visiting Zermatt, check out Firefly Luxury Suites for a romantic place to stay. You can find additional family and couple-friendly hotels in our hotel guide for Zermatt here.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $528 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the town will demand a higher price range. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Activity in private minibus, wine tasting in Valais - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Zermatt

In Zermatt, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer or winter season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $244, but during peak season they jump to an average of $455. You can find budget options starting at $139 up to luxury rates at $911. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Zermatt for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $261 (Sfr230). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $130 (Sfr115) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $130
    Sfr115
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $261
    Sfr230

Hotels in Zermatt

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Zermatt

The average hotel room price in Zermatt based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $244 in the low season and $455 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Zermatt include:

  • Chesa Valese starting at $173
  • Haus Mischabel starting at $160
  • Romantik Hotel Julen Superior starting at $214
  • Hotel Daniela Zermatt starting at $274
  • Europe Hotel & Spa starting at $256
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Zermatt

While Zermatt has a good public transit system, staying outside the town to save on accommodation could mean higher transportation costs and less convenience if you're short on time.

Zermatt is known for being family friendly, so when traveling with kids, look for accommodations that offer more space.

There are multiple resorts available in this town. You might be able to find one that includes meals or at least breakfast, and many have onsite restaurants.

If you're headed to Zermatt for your honeymoon, luxury hotels should be on your list. Top picks include Firefly Luxury Suites, Chesa Valese, and Silvana Mountain Hotel.

Planning to spend a week in Zermatt? A vacation rental with a kitchen could be ideal for cooking your meals if you're staying for a while.

Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in summer or winter) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.

Many enjoy discovering Zermatt by walking, so it's beneficial to stay in a central spot. However, this convenience could lead to increased costs.

Prices can rise during ski season, so it's important to make reservations early. Many accommodations with easy access to the slopes often fill up fast and can be on the expensive side.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Zermatt

Zermatt offers a decent public transit system that reaches many must-see spots. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option. For a cheaper and quicker way to explore, public transit is a solid option when it's nearby. Taxis and rideshares are also plentiful in the city.

Visitors who prefer to discover the area by walking will find it enjoyable. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (excellent)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $55 (Sfr49) per person, per day, on local transportation in Zermatt. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Zermatt is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $55
    Sfr49

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.

A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:

  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer for $115 details
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer for $124 details
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer for $139 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Zermatt
How much does it cost to go to Zermatt? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Zermatt
The price of renting a car in Zermatt will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Zermatt

The food in Zermatt is terrific, and you should make sure to take time to taste all of the local flavors. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Zermatt can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Zermatt is $102 (Sfr90) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $102
    Sfr90

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Zermatt is around $103 (Sfr90) per person, with previous travelers spending from $45 to $197. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Zermatt are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $10 to $31
  • Lunch: $15 to $41
  • Dinner: $31 to $72
  • Coffee: $8
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $15

While Zermatt is known for its skiing, it is also known for its high-standard cuisine. The Swiss resort town has one of the highest concentrations of gourmet restaurants than any other. With just about 100 restaurants (and over 50 in the mountains), the choices are endless. You might wish to dine at one of the elegant hotels with mountain views, or cozy up to a fireplace in one of the village restaurants. Zermatt has plenty of options for sampling authentic Alpine food. Any place is sure to have a selection of dishes featuring local meats and cheeses as well as wines-all amidst gorgeous mountain views.

Food in Zermatt

Food & Dining Tips

When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.

Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.

You can save money and appreciate the scenery by enjoying a picnic. Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and find a lovely park or scenic area to enjoy your meal.

Pack a water bottle to save on drinks. It's also a way to help protect the environment.

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Zermatt

Travelers flock to Zermatt because it is well-known for its skiing, hiking, romance, and food.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Zermatt typically cost an average of $58 (Sfr51) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $58
    Sfr51

The Matterhorn of course steals the spotlight, its snow-covered peak towering above the little village. One of the tallest mountains in the Alps, it straddles the border of Italy and Switzerland and can be visited from either side. On the Swiss side, Zermatt is the main access point. Experienced mountaineers are permitted to climb to its peak for a fee of about 1200 CHF with a guide provided from Zermatt.

Monte Rosa and Breithorn are two other well-known peaks to climb. Breithorn is probably the easiest. Using the lifts "Furri" (1700 m), "Trockener Steg" (2800 m), and "kleines Matterhorn" (3883 m) you can reach the top of the little Matterhorn. From here there is a walking trail that leads to the top of Breithorn in approximately two hours.

Other highlights include a railway called the Gornergrat which climbs the mountain for a spectacular panorama, as well as the Matterhorn Museum which features equipment from the first climbing expedition. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is the highest place in Europe and can be reached by cable car, while Gorner Gorge features a footpath across narrow bridges and steps as well as a fixed rope route guide visitors through the gorge.



other than skiing and snowboarding, winter sports like curling and ice skating are popular in Zermatt. The ski area of Zermatt reaches from the Rothorn over Gornergrad and the Theodulpass to the Italian villages of Breuil-Cervinia and Valtourneche. The village also has a number of ski schools with multi-lingual instructors and mountain guides for those seeking a chaperone for their winter sports. The best known of these schools is Zermatt Ski School - European Snowsport.

In warmer months, cycling through town is also common, as is mountain biking on the surrounding slopes. Most of the ski lifts allow visitors to carry on mountain bikes, though usually for an extra fee.

As many of Zermatt's hotels are on the pricier end of things, camping is also common for visitors looking to enjoy Switzerland's great outdoors. There is a camping area open in Zermatt during the summer months, as well as one in Tasch.

Sightseeing Tips

Skiing:
Skiing in ZermattSkiing and snowboarding are two of the biggest reasons to visit Zermatt. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Hiking:
Hiking in ZermattOutdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking near Zermatt. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Shopping:
Shopping in ZermattShopping here is an experience not to be missed. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

A nice way to explore destinations in Zermatt is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Private Village Tour in Zermatt’s Alpine for $239 details
  • Kitchen Around - Backstage Dining Tour - Winter Edition for $196 details
  • Mystic Zermatt Tour: Peaks, History & Culture for $219 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Zermatt

The nightlife in Zermatt is fun and active, and visitors enjoy spending nights out at the local bars, clubs, and parties. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $29 (Sfr26) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Zermatt per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $29
    Sfr26
Nightlife Tips

The nightlife is always tempting, but cutting down on drinks is an effective way to manage your travel spending.

Be aware of your surrounding and stay safe if you're out at night and drinking. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes. Stay in groups and with people you trust.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Zermatt. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Activity in private minibus, wine tasting in Valais for $80 details
  • Wine Tasting in Valais for $87 details

Recommended


Budgeting and Travel Tips for Zermatt

  • During peak summer or winter season, prices are generally much higher and the town is more crowded. You can save money and avoid the crowds by visiting during the shoulder seasons or low season instead.
  • As Zermatt is large, you can usually find a variety of price ranges for everything including hotels, food, and activities. You can save money by shopping around, booking ahead, and taking advantage of free things to do.
  • Traveling slower can help save you money while letting you enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you pack your days with activities, the costs can add up. However, taking it easy often results in a more enjoyable trip with lower expenses.

Budgeting Challenges

  • During the winter, many visitors come to enjoy the skiing and snowboarding available in the area. However, these activities can be expensive, leaving little room for budget flexibility. Lift tickets, ski gear rentals, and peak-season lodging will significantly affect your trip's overall budget. Make sure to check your travel insurance for complete coverage.
  • If you're traveling with young children, it's likely that you'll want a private vehicle or taxi. Sometimes it's just easier to skip the hassle of public transit, but you'll need to pay more.
  • If you're thinking Zermatt will have plenty of hostel options, you might be in for a surprise. Instead of relying on cheap dorms, it's better to seek out an inexpensive hotel or an apartment rental.
Traveling in Zermatt
Zermatt The Matterhorn, Zermatt, Switzerland

Located at the foot of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is a Swiss village best known for its skiing, climbing, and hiking opportunities. It has become a popular mountain resort town due to its location and also features a number of boutique shops, hotels, and restaurants that cater to the vacationers who come to enjoy the many winter activities of the Alps.



Neighborhoods & Around

The village of Zermatt, though densely fashioned, is geographically very small. There are three main streets which run along the banks of the river Vispa, and a number of cross-streets, especially around the station and the church which form the center of the village. Just about anywhere in the village is within a twenty minute walk. The main street is called Bahnhofstrasse and is lined with boutique shops, hotels, and restaurants, and also has a lively ski-related scene. The shops are mostly upscale luxury brands selling goods from outdoor equipment to Swiss watches, jewelry, and chocolate. While shopping and dining are the main activities in town, there are also public outdoor rinks for ice-skating and curling.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.