Zermatt has two distinct seasons and is worth visiting in both. The ski season runs from late November to April, with the best snow conditions typically in January and February. March offers the best combination of good snow and longer, sunnier days.
Summer hiking season runs from late June to mid-October, peaking in July and August. The trails at altitude are snow-free by mid-July. September is the finest month: the summer crowds have thinned, the larches are turning gold, and the air is crisp and clear. October closes most of the high lifts and the village becomes quieter.
Book accommodation well in advance for the Christmas and New Year period and for February school holidays — these are the busiest weeks of the year. Summer visitors have more flexibility but July and August bring day-trippers from across Switzerland.