Zermatt Valais, Switzerland Travel Guide
Switzerland's main mobile providers (Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt) deliver good coverage, including mountain areas. Prepaid YOU can get sim cards at airports, major train stations, or mobile phone stores in bigger towns such as Visp or Brig. Ensure your phone is unlocked.
Switzerland has four the main languages. In the Valais canton, German (specifically the local Walliserdeutsch dialect) and French are predominant. English is widely spoken in Zermatt due to its international tourism.
Learning a few basic phrases in German or French shows respect and is appreciated by locals.
Expand your vocabulary for smoother interactions.
Download offline maps and language packs for your apps before arriving in Zermatt. This secures functionality even without an internet connection.
Understand typical operating hours for businesses and transport in Zermatt, in addition to seasonal variations.
Shops generally operate from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Mon-Fri) and shorter hours on Saturdays. Many smaller shops close on Sundays, but souvenir shops and larger supermarkets extend hours during high tourist seasons.
Banks operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Mon-Fri). ATMs are widely available 24/7. Mountain lift hours vary significantly by season and weather; always check current schedules.
Mountain lifts typically run from early morning until late afternoon in peak season. Always consult the Zermatt Bergbahnen site or lift stations for current times.
Switzerland observes several federal and canton-specific public holidays. Zermatt is in the Valais canton. On these days, many businesses, banks, and shops may be closed or have reduced hours.
Many hotels, restaurants, and shops in Zermatt undergo "revision" or close for maintenance during the "off-season" periods. This typically occurs in late In the fourth month to mid-May and again in November to early December.
During seasonal closures, some bigger hotels or those that remain open often have a restaurant that serves both guests and outside visitors. Confirm in advance.
Grasp local customs for polite interactions in Zermatt.
A handshake serves as a common greeting, especially in formal settings or when meeting someone for the first time. In shops and restaurants, a polite "Grüezi" (Swiss German) or "Bonjour" (French) upon entering shows appreciation. Maintain direct eye contact.
Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland, as a service fee is included in prices. However, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is a common gesture and respected.
Certain topics and behaviors are best avoided to maintain respectful interactions.
Switzerland is generally a progressive and tolerant country. Zermatt is a welcoming tourist destination.
Engage with locals. A friendly "Grüezi" (hello in Swiss German) or "Merci" (thank you) initiates more authentic interactions.
Zermatt has pursued efforts to enhance accessibility for travelers with varying mobility needs, though challenges remain in a mountain environment.
Zermatt's main village street (Bahnhofstrasse) is relatively flat and easy to traverse. However, many side streets and paths leading up to hotels or specific chalets can be steep or uneven.
Most modern mountain transport systems are designed to be accessible, offering various means to explore the high alpine environment.
If you require specific accessibility features, contact your chosen lodging and Zermatt Tourism well in advance. This avoids surprises upon arrival.
