The Ultimate Guide to Photo Spots Around Zermatt and the Matterhorn
- Maciek
- Apr 28
- 5 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Zermatt is a dream destination for photographers. Nestled at the foot of the Matterhorn, this charming Alpine town offers far more than just a glimpse of Switzerland's most iconic peak. It’s a treasure trove of incredible Zermatt photo spots and Matterhorn photo locations, where every corner seems to invite you to take out your camera. Whether you're chasing the perfect reflection, dramatic skies, or the rustic charm of old villages, Zermatt has it all — and this guide is here to help you capture it.
I've been photographing here since 2020 and the area is spectacular (check my portfolio: maciejkarpinski.com). Many of photos of mine taken here were recognised and awarded. I hope this blog post will be an inspiration and will give you the same opportunity!
Photographing the Matterhorn from Zermatt - the Best Photo Spots
Few views are as iconic as the Matterhorn towering above the rooftops of Zermatt. The town itself is one of the best Zermatt photo spots, offering countless Matterhorn photo locations without needing to hike for hours. Early morning light creates a contrast between softly lit mountains and still dark chalets. In winter, twinkling holiday lights and snow add a magical touch when sun is hidden and stars are shining.
Classic photo spots like the Kirchbrücke bridge fill up fast, but there are hidden gems along the riverbank or near cable car station and from higher roads like Mürini. Those offer a more intimate perspective. If you’re chasing that perfect town-and-peak combo, you’ll find multiple detailed recommendations in the ebook.
And one small thing to mention - there are good and average hotels in Zermatt, but only few have truly spectacular views that will allow you to put a tripod in the window (or on balcony) and capture splendid time laps. All in the guide book at the end!
Let's change the perspective now..
Stellisee - the Most Tranquil Photo Composition
Stellisee is often called the best view of the Matterhorn for good reason. This small, peaceful lake offers a near-flawless reflection of the peak when the wind is still, creating one of the most sought-after Matterhorn photo locations. Arriving early is key, as it’s one of the most popular Zermatt photo spots, especially at sunrise. The compositions here are classic but powerful: two rocks emerging from the water, with the Matterhorn perfectly framed between them. Explore the shoreline, and you'll find additional angles with rocks, wildflowers depending on the season.
Pro tip: The sunsets are the most spectacular here, but sunrises cannot be missed. Check matterhornparadise.ch website, since there are sunrise rides to the Blauherd in Summer.
Gornergrat - The Best 360° View
No list of Zermatt photo spots would be complete without mentioning Gornergrat. Accessible by a scenic mountain railway, Gornergrat offers one of the most epic Matterhorn photo locations you can find. From the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping 360° views over glaciers and a sea of 4,000-meter peaks. It’s a paradise for both wide-angle landscape shots and detailed telephoto compositions. Sunrise at Gornergrat is especially rewarding, with the first rays illuminating the east face of the Matterhorn in fiery colors. Plus it’s a fantastic place for astrophotography under crystal-clear Alpine skies.
The Matterhorn takes on a supporting role here, while the primary focus for photographers is the Gorner Glacier, the Monte Rosa massif, and the Lyskamm group.
I don't know how many times I've been here, but I cannot wait for the next one! Seriously - it is stunning here. And the best thing is that you can sleep here - the 3100 Kulm Hotel offers not only brilliant views but also wonderful dinner and fantastic breakfasts (sip of Prosecco with this view is worth the price)!
More photos from the location bellow. In 2020 I was very lucky to stay in the hotel - the Nowise comet was taken literally from the hotel's window!
Let's then walk slightly lower...
Riffelsee - Perfect Reflections
Riffelsee is another jewel among Zermatt photo spots, famous for its postcard-perfect reflections of the Matterhorn. Located just a short walk from Rotenboden station, the lake offers a straightforward but deeply rewarding experience. The central, mirror-like view is stunning — but wander around and you’ll discover unique foregrounds: cotton grass in summer, icy textures in winter, and dramatic rocky frames year-round. Few Matterhorn photo locations offer such easy access combined with world-class scenery.
A cool thing is that you can jump out of the train going to Gornergrat (or back), take photos and take the next train!
Plus if you walk around you can find some brilliant compostions, not mentioned or shown often. I am always astonished how colours are changing in the mountains - those two photos were taken during one evening!
And if you want to photograph something charming...
Findeln - Charming Hamlet
Findeln is a hidden gem that adds a rustic, human touch to your portfolio of Zermatt photo spots. This cluster of traditional wooden barns and alpine houses sits on a gentle slope above Zermatt, offering delightful Matterhorn photo locations framed by architecture and nature. The hike down from Sunnegga to Findeln is easy, scenic, and filled with opportunities to capture the mountain through winding paths, stone walls, and charming little chapels. In late autumn, golden larches add another layer of magic to the scenery, making Findeln a must-visit spot for travel and landscape photographers alike.
Zmutt - for the Most Beautiful Meadows in Zermatt area
When the weather in Zermatt turns cloudy and the peaks disappear behind mist, Zmutt becomes one of the best Zermatt photo spots to explore. This tiny hamlet, surrounded by green meadows and old barns, offers endless storytelling possibilities. Instead of chasing grand vistas, here you can focus on textures, details, and moody atmospheres. Zmutt is also a refreshing alternative among Matterhorn photo locations because it allows you to shoot beautiful, authentic mountain countryside scenes even when the mountain itself hides from view. It’s an ideal backup plan for those moody, atmospheric days that lend a special character to your images.
Plus there is a fantastic restaurant there: Z'Mutt serving simple but delicious local specials!
Next, let's take our cameras higher...
Klein Matterhorn - the Highest You Can Go Without Climbing
For a truly high-altitude adventure, Klein Matterhorn is an absolute must among Zermatt photo spots. As the highest accessible point around Zermatt — at a staggering 3,883 meters above sea level — Klein Matterhorn offers an entirely different perspective of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn itself. This unique Matterhorn photo location reveals the mountain from a more rugged, dramatic angle rarely seen on postcards. The panoramic platform delivers a jaw-dropping 360° view, stretching across glaciers and neighboring peaks like the Breithorn.
Photographers can capture mountaineering groups traversing snowy plateaus or find creative compositions with the surreal, milky-blue glacier lakes visible near Trockener Steg (just take a longer break when changing cable cars). Whether you’re shooting sunrise light touching the highest summits or catching the crisp details of endless glaciers, Klein Matterhorn promises a once-in-a-lifetime photographic experience that feels like stepping onto another planet.
What else?
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to find new perspectives, our Zermatt Photography Guide will help you discover the best Zermatt photo spots and Matterhorn photo locations — with insider tips you won't find anywhere else. Maximize your time, catch the perfect light, and create stunning images you’ll be proud of.
And there is more to explore to get the best shots:
Täsch has one fantastic photo spots
There is a brilliant angle to use above Zermatt
Hotels, restaurants, trails
and more, small tips that make life easier...
See you in Zermatt!
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