Zermatt, the car-free mountain village at the foot of the Matterhorn, is one of the most picturesque places in Switzerland. A stroll through its charming center offers a perfect mix of traditional Swiss architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, all set against the stunning backdrop of the world famous Matterhorn.
So you'll definitely want to take a stroll through the place while you're there...
Starting at the Zermatt train station, the main street, Bahnhofstrasse, leads through the heart of the village. This lively pedestrian street is lined with chocolate shops, outdoor gear stores, and local boutiques, making it an ideal place to browse for Swiss souvenirs or high-quality mountain equipment. You’ll also pass inviting bakeries and restaurants serving Swiss specialties like rösti, fondue, and raclette.
One of the highlights of a walk through Zermatt is the historic Old Village, located just off the main street. Here, you’ll find well-preserved wooden chalets from the 16th and 17th centuries, built on stilts to protect food stores from rodents. This area offers a glimpse into Zermatt’s past as a traditional mountain farming community.
The stroll can be extended to the Kirchbrücke (church bridge), one of the best places in the village for an unobstructed view of the Matterhorn. From here, you can continue toward the river or simply find a bench to soak in the Alpine atmosphere.