Zermatt is a prime destination for full-day tours because it offers a unique mix of world-class skiing, stunning alpine scenery, and memorable hikes with views of the Matterhorn. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a leisurely explorer, you’ll find experiences that will suit your pace and interests. For example, a VIP ski or snowboard lesson (see more) provides personalized attention that can turn beginners into confident skiers. Meanwhile, the guided hikes allow you to soak in the mountain vistas without the crowds, making your day both relaxing and awe-inspiring.
If you’re planning your trip, this list highlights the best full-day tours in Zermatt, balancing adventure, scenery, and expert guidance. From private ski lessons to scenic mountain hikes, there’s something for every kind of traveler eager to make the most of their time in this mountain paradise.
1. VIP Ski or Snowboard Lesson – Full Day Zermatt
At number one, the VIP Ski or Snowboard Lesson offers a truly premium experience for up to four people. For around $807, your group gets a dedicated instructor who not only teaches but also accompanies you from open to close of the lifts—imagine having your expert guide by your side all day, from morning meet-and-greet to après ski. The highlight is the extra service of a pre-arranged planning session, where you can specify your goals and preferences, ensuring your day is tailored to your skill level and ambitions.
This tour stands out because of its personalized attention and long-duration guidance, ideal for skiers or snowboarders who want to improve quickly or just enjoy a stress-free day on the slopes. Reviewers praise instructor Matthew’s helpfulness and knowledge, calling it an “unforgettable experience,” and noting Delfina’s patience with beginners.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for the ultimate private ski day, this VIP package delivers a memorable, tailored experience that elevates your time on Zermatt’s pistes.
2. Full Day 5 Hours
The Full Day 5 Hours tour offers a slightly shorter but equally personalized ski experience. Priced at about $538 for up to eight people, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off—saving you time and hassle—plus a private guide who knows Zermatt’s best ski spots. This is perfect if you want a manageable day of skiing or snowboarding with expert supervision and insider knowledge on the best runs, après-ski spots, and lunch venues.
What makes this tour stand out are the reviews highlighting the flexibility and attention from guides like Maya, Kotryna, Claudio, or Paulio. Several guests mention how their guides, like Claudio, were patient with beginners and tailored lessons to their abilities, making the experience enjoyable and accessible. The private guide can customize the itinerary, whether you’re after challenging runs or gentle slopes.
Bottom line: For a flexible, private guide-led ski day with personalized instruction and local tips, this tour offers excellent value and a smooth experience.
3. Zermatt: Full-Day Guided Hike
Number three on our list is the Full-Day Guided Hike, which costs around $774 per person. It combines a scenic cogwheel train ride on the Gornergrat Railway with an easy-to-moderate mountain hike. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the Alps, with roughly 1 to 2 hours of hiking along well-marked trails.
Highlights include a scenic drive, a photo stop at Gornergrat, and a 2-hour hike through stunning alpine scenery. Guests rave about guide Petr’s engaging explanations of flora, fauna, and geography, and mention how the weather cooperated for their memorable day. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate gentle physical activity and want to combine train rides with nature walks, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Bottom line: If you seek scenic views combined with a light hike and expert narration, this guided tour provides a balanced, immersive mountain experience.
4. Full Day Private Ski Lesson in Zermatt
At number four, the Full Day Private Ski Lesson offers personalized instruction tailored to your ability, whether you’re a beginner or intermediate skier. For about $787, groups of up to six enjoy a full day with a dedicated instructor from European Snowsport, known for high-quality teaching and friendly service.
What makes this option appealing is the ability to focus on specific skills, with instructors who speak excellent English. Many reviews mention how the lessons foster both fun and significant improvement, with some clients returning year after year to the same teacher. The package emphasizes extra value in lesson quality and individualized coaching, making it ideal for serious learners or those with a particular goal in mind.
Bottom line: If you want expert, custom-focused skiing lessons that adapt to your pace and needs, this tour delivers a rewarding and memorable day.
5. Guided Hiking Full Day in Zermatt
Number five is the Guided Hiking Full Day that costs about $609 per person. This tour emphasizes photography and scenic exploration, with guides helping you capture the stunning beauty of Zermatt’s mountains. The itinerary includes a 6-hour hike through trails offering panoramic views, along with opportunities to take photographs at your own pace.
The guide’s expertise is evident in the reviews, where Petr’s engagement and attention to flora and fauna stood out. This trip is particularly suited for travelers who want to combine light physical activity with a focus on capturing the stunning landscape, and who enjoy stopping frequently for photos.
Bottom line: For those who love mountain scenery and photography, this hiking tour offers a relaxed pace with plenty of memorable views.
6. Klein Matterhorn and Glacier Trail Private Full Day Hike
Finally, the Klein Matterhorn and Glacier Trail is a private 4 to 6-hour adventure for around $634. It begins with a gondola ascent to the Klein Matterhorn, where you explore the Glacier Palace and enjoy views over Switzerland, Italy, and France. Afterward, you trek along the glacier trail to Schwarzsee, passing stunning glaciers and peaks.
Guests rave about the personalized guidance, noting how Cedric kept them informed about weather and safety. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of gondola rides, glacier exploration, and scenic hiking, all with the comfort of a private guide. It’s suitable for moderate hikers who want a full-day adventure but without strenuous climbs.
Bottom line: For a private, scenic, and glacier-centered experience of the Matterhorn, this tour offers a memorable and flexible day.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Zermatt
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If skiing is your priority and you’re seeking expert guidance, the VIP ski lesson or the private ski lesson are excellent choices. For a more scenic, less physically demanding experience, the guided hikes or the Klein Matterhorn adventure offer unforgettable mountain vistas.
Think about the amount of physical activity you want—light walks versus full-day hikes—and whether you prefer a private guide or a small group. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to ensure you get your preferred date and experience.
Final Thoughts
Zermatt’s full-day tours provide a wide spectrum of experiences, from adrenaline-fueled skiing to tranquil mountain hikes. For those who want a VIP treatment on skis, the first tour offers an unbeatable private experience. If scenic views and photography are more your speed, the guided hikes will satisfy. And for travelers eager to learn or improve their skiing skills, dedicated lessons deliver personalized progress.
Whatever your interest, these tours ensure you’ll make the most of your time in the shadow of the Matterhorn. With careful planning and early booking, your Zermatt adventure will be filled with memorable moments and spectacular vistas.