Car Rental Zermatt

Switzerland is well known for having one of the best freeway systems in Europe, making it a simple and convenient country to navigate – and extremely efficient to drive around.

Zermatt itself has fantastic transport connections to the surrounding areas and the wider attractions of Switzerland.

Speed limits here are displayed in kilometers per hour. The limit in towns often varies between 35km/h and 50km/h (20 to 30mph), reducing in areas where pedestrians take priority. Outside of built up areas the limit typically increases to 80km/h (49mph) and can be as high as 120km/h (74mph) on major freeways. Simply check the signs for any changes.

When driving through towns and cities you will likely come across crosswalks, known as ‘zebra crossings’, where you must stop and let any waiting pedestrians cross the road before continuing. These are usually easy to spot however, as they are marked with yellow stripes for the pedestrians to follow.

You may have also heard that vehicles must have a special vignette to drive on the freeways outside of towns and cities here, but be assured that all Hertz cars registered in Switzerland display these.

If you are looking for exciting day trips, the stunning city of Lausanne on the shores of Lake Geneva can be reached in around two hours by car via the A9. Some routes – including the Great Saint Bernard tunnel – will have tolls on them, so keeping some loose change and notes to hand is a good idea.

Hypnotically beautiful and like something straight out of a greetings card, this destination is something of a majestic wonderland for visitors. But even more excitement awaits in the landscape beyond.

Whether you’re drawn in by adventures on the slopes or the cozy chalets nestled underneath the majestic Matterhorn, car rental in Zermatt unlocks the surrounding area and its alluring alpine experience.

Paradise on the hill

A slice of heaven can be found on Zermatt’s iconic peak, where you can soar up the Matterhorn on a magical cable car ride to Europe’s highest mountain station. At more than 12,000-feet high, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers exquisite views of the mountain range stretching as far as the eye can see.

While the journey alone is spectacular, there’s even more sky-high leisure to enjoy at the top. By stepping out onto the Panoramic Platform, you’ll get views of more than a dozen glaciers and numerous mountain peaks – with plenty to see and do besides.

Sit back in cozy shell pods and enjoy a short film at Europe’s highest picture house. Tucked into the Breithorn Tunnel, visitors can look forward to an enthralling screening on mountaineering and wildlife native to the Matterhorn.

Before venturing back down the mountain, stop for a bite at one of the world’s highest restaurants. The chefs here work in an open kitchen, whipping up homemade soups, alpine classics and dishes from around the world as you watch. Even better, the restaurant offers 360-degree views of the wonders outside.

Take the Sunnegga express

Closer to ground and with a fantastic view of the Matterhorn itself, Sunnegga is a spellbinding experience for families.

Just a 20-minute drive from Zermatt, park at Sunnegga-Rothorn valley station then take the underground funicular to ascend. From here you can admire the scenery and enjoy a day of family fun. Stop by the lake for easy sloping in winter, or take a relaxing swim in summer. There’s also a children’s playground and bike rentals available for trail exploring.

Follow the Marmot trail

For animal lovers, this special trail close to the resort is ideal for getting up close and personal with Zermatt’s favorite furry native – the marmot.

Watch the adorable creatures dive in and out of their burrows and listen to their distinctive whistles, which can be heard from afar.

The walk also features intricate wood carvings of marmots and interactive panels that describe their fascinating way of life. There are even marmot observation posts at Sunnegga, where you can gain further insights into their habitats and behavior.

Take a bite out of history

Ski down Sunnegga to find Zermatt’s tastiest slope-side venue. A local favorite with historical quirk, Chez Vrony offers an alpine dining experience like no other.

Transformed from the small farmhouse that had stood since 1900, Chez Vrony became the established restaurant it is today in 1962. The family-run business is known for its cured meats and homemade cheese, which come from the establishment’s own cows, while the restaurant also offers plenty of atmospheric comfort. Try the legendary Vrony Burger for a real taste of the land.

Discover this exciting resort and beyond when you rent a car in Zermatt with Hertz. Reserve direct today.