Hinterdorf Zermatt
Step back in time in Zermatt's oldest quarter, Hinterdorf, with its preserved 16th-18th century larch-wood chalets on stilts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light on old wood
Hinterdorf Zermatt
Best Time
Golden hour light on old wood
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Zermatt's oldest quarter, Hinterdorf, with its preserved 16th-18th century larch-wood chalets on stilts.
"A must-visit while in Zermatt! Fascinated by this quiet street with chalets dating back to 1600."
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander the narrow alleys of Hinterdorf to see 16th-18th century chalets.
📸 Capture the Charm
The old wooden buildings and cobblestone streets make for picturesque photos.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 62 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Larch-Wood Chalets
Hinterdorf Street
Explore centuries-old wooden homes, barns, and stables, a testament to traditional alpine architecture.
Elevated Stilt Construction
Hinterdorf Street
Marvel at houses built on stone stilts, designed to protect against animals and floods.
The 'Rear Village' Atmosphere
Hinterdorf
Experience the quiet, preserved charm of Zermatt's oldest quarter, a peaceful contrast to the bustling town.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
+1Explore Zermatt's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander the narrow alleys of Hinterdorf to see 16th-18th century chalets.
📸 Capture the Charm
The old wooden buildings and cobblestone streets make for picturesque photos.
🐾 Friendly Feline Encounters
Keep an eye out for the famously friendly cats in the Hinterdorf area!
🚫 No Tickets Needed
Exploring Hinterdorf is free and accessible to everyone.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander the narrow alleys of Hinterdorf to see 16th-18th century chalets.
📸 Capture the Charm
The old wooden buildings and cobblestone streets make for picturesque photos.
🐾 Friendly Feline Encounters
Keep an eye out for the famously friendly cats in the Hinterdorf area!
🚫 No Tickets Needed
Exploring Hinterdorf is free and accessible to everyone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hinterdorf a charming and historically significant street in Zermatt, appreciating the well-preserved 16th-18th century wooden chalets and their unique stilt construction. While some wish they could see inside the buildings, the overall experience is described as a delightful, free stroll back in time.
"An interesting street full of distinctive old wooden buildings in Zermatt built in traditional style. Some are occupied, some are available as rental apartments. Surprisingly, none were open to look inside. I think one of these should be converted back to how it was back in the day as it would make a nice little museum & visitor attraction."
Toxteth O' Grady
"The must-see historic corner in Zermatt. Shows how the weight of the small wooden houses is carried by 4+ flat stone plates, which in turn stand on a wooden structure that elevates the house above ground level.
No tickets are needed here."
Marc Zingg
"Hinterdorfstrasse is a small, maybe 200-300 met long side street between the main Bahnhofstrasse and river. It's one of the oldest streets with old wooden houses leveled up on stone stilts, probably to avoid uninvited animals or floods.
Some houses are converted into guestrooms and bars, some we saw abandoned.
It's was pleasant and interesting stroll after the train to Matterhorn"
Dejan Braki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hinterdorf is located in the older part of Zermatt. You can reach it by walking from the main train station (Bahnhofstrasse) through the town. It's a short, pleasant stroll, often described as being between the main street and the river.
Yes, Zermatt is a car-free village. Visitors typically park in Täsch and take a train to Zermatt. From the Zermatt train station, Hinterdorf is easily accessible on foot.
The best way to explore Hinterdorf is on foot. Take your time to wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the historic architecture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit Hinterdorf. It's a historic street and neighborhood within Zermatt that is open to the public for exploration.
Hinterdorf is an outdoor historic area and is accessible at any time of day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and photo opportunities.
There are no entrance fees for Hinterdorf. It's a free-to-explore historic district of Zermatt.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Hinterdorf area is photogenic! Focus on the unique larch-wood chalets, the cobblestone streets, and the distinctive stilt foundations. The narrow alleys offer charming perspectives.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the texture of the old wooden buildings. However, any time of day offers good opportunities.
Drone regulations can be strict in Swiss villages and national parks. It's advisable to check local Zermatt regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 🏡 Onsite Experience
Hinterdorf is known as the oldest part of Zermatt, featuring traditional larch-wood chalets, barns, and storehouses built between the 16th and 18th centuries. It offers a glimpse into the village's historical architecture.
While many of the historic buildings are still residences or have been converted into rental apartments or bars, most are not open for public interior tours. +1
The houses are built from larch wood, a local tree, and are often elevated on stone stilts to protect them from ground moisture and animals. Many have heavy stone slab roofs.
Hinterdorf itself is a historic village area and doesn't offer direct views of the Matterhorn. You'll need to move to other viewpoints in Zermatt for Matterhorn vistas.
Some of the historic buildings have been converted into holiday homes, bars, or guest rooms. While not a commercial hub, you might find a place to stop for a drink.
Social
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