Andermatt Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Andermatt, Switzerland with this comprehensive travel guide featuring places to visit, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Andermatt

Andermatt is a charming town nestled in the picturesque Urserental Valley of Central Switzerland. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Andermatt is a popular tourist destination that offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation. The town is surrounded by majestic mountains, including the Gotthard Massif, and the Reuss River runs through the town, adding to the scenic charm.

List of Places to Visit in Andermatt

Explore the town’s top-rated places and experience Swiss culture at its finest. Here are some of the must-visit places in Andermatt:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Andermatt Museum: Learn about the town’s history and culture through exhibits and interactive displays.
  • The Devils Bridge: One of the most famous bridges in Switzerland, built during the early 13th century under the direction of St. Gotthard, the patron saint of travelers.
  • Gotthard Pass: This historical mountain pass serves as a gateway to the Alps and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Natural Attractions of Andermatt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gemsstock: This mountain peak offers a variety of winter and summer sports like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
  • Oberalp Pass: A scenic drive through the beautiful Swiss countryside with stunning panoramic views of the Alps. It is also popular with hikers and mountain bikers in summer.
  • Rhine Gorge: A beautiful and popular hiking trail that features stunning scenery along the Rhine River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Andermatt

Andermatt is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 500 km of marked hiking trails, Andermatt is a fantastic place to hike and bike. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Andermatt:

  • Urserntal Panorama Trail: A beautiful and easy trail that offers panoramic views of the Urserntal Valley.
  • Klausen Pass: A challenging bike path that reaches an elevation of 1,948 meters and is one of the most popular mountain biking trails in Switzerland.
  • Nätschen to Oberalp Pass: A scenic hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is perfect for hikers of all levels.

Best Things to Do in Andermatt: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Andermatt. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history lover, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Andermatt:

  • Skiing and snowboarding: Andermatt is a world-renowned ski resort that offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding trails in the world.
  • Heli-skiing: For a thrilling adventure, try heli-skiing, which offers access to some of the most challenging skiing spots in the area.
  • Glacier Express: Take a scenic ride on the world-famous Glacier Express train, which travels from Zermatt to St. Moritz and passes through Andermatt.

Week-Long Itinerary for Andermatt

Here’s a week-long itinerary to explore the best of Andermatt:

Day 1 Arrival and check-in at the hotel
Day 2 Museum visit, walking tour of the town center
Day 3 Hiking in the Urserntal Panorama Trail
Day 4 Skiing or snowboarding in Gemsstock Mountain
Day 5 Rhine Gorge hiking or biking
Day 6 Day trip to Oberalp Pass
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Andermatt

Andermatt’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving traditional Swiss cuisine as well as international fare. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Andermatt:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rösti: A traditional Swiss dish made with grated potatoes and served as a side dish or main course.
  • Cheese Fondue: A dish made with melted cheese and served with bread and vegetables.
  • Älpler Magronen: A traditional pasta dish made with potatoes, onions, and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Swiss Wine: Switzerland’s wine industry is not as well known as other countries, but they produce some excellent wine, such as the Chasselas and Pinot Noir.
  • Absinthe: A traditional Swiss alcoholic beverage made with wormwood, anise seed, fennel, and other herbs.

Where to Stay in Andermatt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Andermatt has a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some popular accommodations in Andermatt:

  • The Chedi Andermatt: A stunning 5-star hotel that offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and multiple restaurants.
  • Hotel Monopol-Metropol: A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable accommodations and a central location.
  • The River House Boutique Hotel: A stylish and cozy guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and a serene atmosphere by the Reuss River.

What to Buy in Andermatt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Andermatt is known for its traditional Swiss crafts, such as woodcarvings, handmade textiles, and chocolates. Here are some popular souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Swiss Chocolates: The Swiss are famous for their high-quality chocolates and handcrafted pralines, which make great souvenirs and gifts.
  • Swiss Cheese: A variety of Swiss cheeses are available in Andermatt, such as Emmental, Gruyere, and Appenzeller.
  • Swiss Army Knife: The famous Swiss Army Knife, a multi-purpose tool, is available for purchase in Andermatt.

Local Culture and Customs of Andermatt

Switzerland has a rich and diverse culture that is reflected in the traditional customs and festivals celebrated throughout the year. Here are some local customs and traditions in Andermatt:

  • Fasnacht: A colorful and lively carnival celebrated in February or March that features music, parades, and traditional costumes.
  • Silvesterkläuse: A New Year’s Eve tradition in which local men dress up in elaborate costumes and masks and parade around the town.
  • Swiss National Day: Celebrated on August 1st, this day marks the founding of Switzerland in 1291 and is celebrated with fireworks, speeches, and traditional Swiss food and drinks.

Best Time to Visit Andermatt

The best time to visit Andermatt depends on your preferences and interests. For skiing and winter activities, the best time to visit is from December to April. Summer (June to September) is the best time for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Andermatt

Do:

  • Respect the local culture, customs, and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities.
  • Speak politely and greet locals with a smile.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage nature.
  • Wear shoes inside homes or places of worship.
  • Swim in rivers or lakes unless it’s a designated swimming area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Andermatt

Andermatt is generally a safe place to travel, but it’s important to take the usual precautions to avoid theft, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Always lock your belongings and valuables in your hotel room and keep an eye on your surroundings.

Health in Andermatt

Switzerland has an excellent healthcare system, and medical facilities are readily available in Andermatt. However, it can be expensive, so it’s recommended to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical costs.

Getting to Andermatt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Andermatt

  • Zurich Airport: The nearest major airport to Andermatt, approximately 120 km away.
  • Milan Malpensa Airport: About 200 km from Andermatt.

Bus Stations Near Andermatt

  • Andermatt Train Station: Serves as a regional bus hub that connects to nearby towns and cities.
  • Andrist Bus Service: A local bus company that offers transport services to nearby areas.

Other Options

  • Car rentals: A popular option for travelers who want to explore the beautiful Swiss countryside on their own.
  • Train: Swiss train system is known for its efficiency and scenic routes, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy the views while traveling.

How to Get Around in Andermatt

Andermatt is a compact town, and many tourist spots are within walking distance. However, there are also public transportation options available, such as buses and trains. Taxis are also available and can be booked in advance or found at taxi stands.

Where to Go Next from Andermatt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Andermatt is a perfect base to explore the surrounding towns and attractions. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting:

  • Lucerne: A historic town on the shores of Lake Lucerne, known for its picturesque architecture and museums.
  • Lake Como: A beautiful Italian lake that can be reached by a scenic train ride from Andermatt.
  • Engelberg: A charming town located in the heart of Switzerland’s central Alps and a popular skiing spot.

Conclusion

Andermatt is a fantastic destination that offers a great balance between outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, Andermatt has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Andermatt with confidence and create unforgettable memories.

The river flowing through Andermatt The river flowing through Andermatt