Skip to main content

Filter by:


Star rating

Review score

Zermatt – 97 hotels and places to stay
See the latest prices and deals by choosing your dates.
Hotel Bahnhof, hotel in Zermatt

Just 100 metres from Zermatt Train Station, Hotel Bahnhof offers free Wi-Fi access and views of the Valais Alps from all rooms. The free ski bus stops right outside.

Very close to the train station in a great location. Very spacious room for a family of 4. The community kitchen was a plus for me, very clean and handy 👌
8.7
Scored 8.7
Fabulous
Rated fabulous
2,594 reviews
Price from€ 150.02per night
Carina - Design&Lifestyle hotel, hotel in Zermatt

Carina - Design&Lifestyle hotel is an 8-minute walk from the centre and the Zermatt Train Station, and 230 metres from the Zermatt Funicular.

Very nice and cleal
9.0
Scored 9.0
Superb
Rated superb
1,622 reviews
Price from€ 205.82per night
Hotel Alphubel, hotel in Zermatt

In a central location in Zermatt, 200 metres from the Gornergrat Mountain Railway and Zermatt Train Station, Hotel Alphubel offers a garden. Free in-room WiFi is available.

Location and breakfast
8.2
Scored 8.2
Very good
Rated very good
1,946 reviews
Price from€ 185.50per night
Hotel Ambassador Zermatt, hotel in Zermatt

The Hotel Ambassador Zermatt enjoys a central location, only 100 metres from the Zermatt train station and the Gornergrat rack railway station.

Location, food of the restaurant, clean and comfortable room.
8.3
Scored 8.3
Very good
Rated very good
1,979 reviews
Price from€ 340.34per night
Hotel Parnass, hotel in Zermatt

The family-run Hotel Parnass is quietly located next to the Matter Vispa River and 300 metres from the Sunnegga Express Cable Car. It offers free WiFi in all rooms.

The staff were very kind and helpful. The room was clean and had everything I needed. Breakfast was delicious and the chef gave me a seat with the most amazing view of the Matterhorn. Everything was perfect :)
8.9
Scored 8.9
Fabulous
Rated fabulous
595 reviews
Price from€ 312.21per night
Hotel ZERMAMA Zermatt, hotel in Zermatt

This brand new renovated hotel in the centre of Zermatt is just a 5-minute walk from Zermatt Train Station and across the road of the valley station of the Sunnegga Express. It offers free WiFi.

View , services and staff
9.1
Scored 9.1
Superb
Rated superb
669 reviews
Price from€ 283.83per night
Alpenblick Superior, hotel in Zermatt

The Alpenblick enjoys a quiet location close to the cable car to the Matterhorn Ski Paradise and a 5-minute walk from the centre of Zermatt.

Rooms are spacious and very good with view with all basic amenities.
8.6
Scored 8.6
Fabulous
Rated fabulous
862 reviews
Price from€ 200.71per night
Mountain Paradise, hotel in Zermatt

Mountain Paradise in Zermatt has a sauna and a steam room. Quiet surroundings and views of the Matterhorn Mountain can be enjoyed at the property which is located in the Winkelmatten suburb.

Clean, modern, kind receptionists, close to the cable car. Breakfast was also really good!
9.1
Scored 9.1
Superb
Rated superb
1,398 reviews
Price from€ 193per night
Hotel Sarazena, hotel in Zermatt

The small Hotel Sarazena is located next to the train station in Zermatt and features a sauna. Rooms have an en-suite bathroom, cable TV and free WiFi internet access.

The location was only a minute walk from the train station, and quick access to main shopping street. Room was nice with couch and chair in sitting area. Front desk staff was excellent and very helpful. Breakfast was good.
9.0
Scored 9.0
Superb
Rated superb
682 reviews
Price from€ 271.67per night
Backstage Boutique SPA Hotel, hotel in Zermatt

Located in the centre of Zermatt, Backstage Boutique SPA Hotel offers uniquely furnished rooms with open fireplaces and free WiFi. Opened in December 2010, it features a spa area.

Good central location in town and close to railway station. Excellent spa facilities. Friendly staff.
9.0
Scored 9.0
Superb
Rated superb
1,206 reviews
Price from€ 415.61per night
See all 388 hotels in Zermatt

Most booked hotels in Zermatt in the past month

Zermatt's best hotels with breakfast

  • 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 509 reviews

    3100 Kulmhotel, located in Gornergrat, is the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps and the mountain base camp of a high mountain range. It offers elegant rooms with free Wi-Fi.

    The staff, the location and all the infrastructure.

  • Hotel Sarazena
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 682 reviews

    The small Hotel Sarazena is located next to the train station in Zermatt and features a sauna. Rooms have an en-suite bathroom, cable TV and free WiFi internet access.

    clean and comfortable. breakfast spread is excellent.

  • Alpenlodge
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 493 reviews

    The ski-in Alpenlodge Superior is located on a sunny slope on the edge of Zermatt, offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn and free access to the wellness area.

    Fantastic location, very comfortable, wonderful family run hotel

  • Hotel Arca Solebad & Spa
    9.1
    Scored 9.1
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 998 reviews

    The ARCA Solebad Wellness & Spa in Zermatt is located near the centre, the station, the Gornergrat train and the Sunnegga-Rothorn train and features up-to date wellness facilities including an indoor...

    Breakfast is wonderful, perfect for asian & european

  • Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 754 reviews

    This stylish 4-star hotel lies in the centre of Zermatt. It offers newly renovated rooms, a spacious reception and lounge, a hotel bar with a sophisticated lobby, a unique breakfast room with winter...

    Excellent breakfast with lovely staff. Good location.

  • CERVO Mountain Resort
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 278 reviews

    From the valley station of Zermatt's Sunnegga Cable Car, a lift takes you directly to the reception of the CERVO Mountain Resort, located right next to the ski slopes and hiking trails.

    helpful staff, very well designed hotel with great style!

  • Hotel ZERMAMA Zermatt
    9.1
    Scored 9.1
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 669 reviews

    This brand new renovated hotel in the centre of Zermatt is just a 5-minute walk from Zermatt Train Station and across the road of the valley station of the Sunnegga Express. It offers free WiFi.

    such an amazing property, couldn’t recommend it anymore.

  • Chesa Valese
    9.6
    Scored 9.6
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 299 reviews

    This hotel enjoys a quiet location in the Steinmatte area, a 3-minute walk from the centre of Zermatt and 5 minutes from all railway and cable car stations. Free Wi-Fi is available.

    The hotel was cute and cozy! We had a great view from our balcony

Budget hotels in Zermatt

  • Hotel Jägerhof
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,154 reviews

    Hotel Jägerhof enjoys a quiet location close to the centre of Zermatt, a 5-minute walk from the Klein Matterhorn cable car. It has a gym and offers free WiFi.

    Spacious room, super cute design, 5 mins walk to city

  • SCHLOSS Zermatt - Active & CBD Spa Hotel
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 183 reviews

    Located in Zermatt and with Zermatt Railway Station reachable within 300 metres, SCHLOSS Zermatt - Active & CBD Spa Hotel provides concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a terrace, free WiFi...

    excellent location, friendly staff and amazing spa

  • 22 Summits Boutique Hotel
    9.4
    Scored 9.4
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 377 reviews

    Located in Zermatt and with Zermatt Railway Station reachable within 1.3 km, 22 Summits Boutique Hotel provides concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a terrace, free WiFi throughout the property and...

    The hotel was cozy and lovely with the good vibes.

  • Riffelalp Resort 2222m
    9.4
    Scored 9.4
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 281 reviews

    Offering ski-to-door access and a spa centre with an outdoor pool, Riffelalp Resort 2222m 2222m is located right within the ski, hiking and biking region above Zermatt.

    Heaven In The mountains. Scenery and spa were fantastic

  • Backstage Hotel Serviced Apartments
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 244 reviews

    Backstage Hotel Serviced Apartments features apartments with full hotel services designed by architect Heinz Julen and offering views of the Matterhorn from their balcony or terrace.

    Clean, friendly and luxurious for the price. I recommend

  • Zermatt Budget Rooms
    9.4
    Scored 9.4
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 584 reviews

    The Zermatt Budget Rooms are underground and come with free WiFi and TV, a 5-minute walk away from the Sunnegga Cable Car and the Glacier Express.

    Loved the facilities and use of hotel pool/spa/restaurants.

  • Hotel Romantica
    9.6
    Scored 9.6
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 459 reviews

    In a quiet location of Zermatt, Hotel Romantica offers a garden, free WiFi, and rooms with flat-screen cable TV.

    Fantastic place and very friendly attitude! Thank you!

  • Hotel Plateau Rosa
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 447 reviews

    Offering free Wi-Fi, Hotel Plateau Rosa is located a 10-minutes walk from Zermatt’s centre and 100 metres from Zermatt Cable Car, at the foot of the Matterhorn.

    Pierre was amazing & wonderful view and very clean

Hotels located in the centre of Zermatt

  • Mirabeau Etoile
    10.0
    Scored 10.0
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 1 review

    Mirabeau Etoile features a garden, terrace, a restaurant and bar in Zermatt. This 4-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi.

  • The Omnia
    9.7
    Scored 9.7
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 347 reviews

    Situated on a rock, 45 metres above the roofs of central Zermatt, guests access The Omnia via a tunnel leading to an elevator, which brings them right into the lobby.

    super comfortable, friendly staff, love the facilities

  • BEAUSiTE Zermatt
    9.5
    Scored 9.5
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 910 reviews

    Enjoying an elevated, quiet but central position in Zermatt, 200 metres from the Sunnegga Cable Car, BEAUSiTE Zermatt offers beautiful panoramic mountain views, as well as an indoor pool, spa...

    Sauna, bed room was nice. Little details everywhere.

  • Firefly Luxury Suites
    9.5
    Scored 9.5
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 241 reviews

    The 4-star Firefly Luxury Suites at the foot of the Matterhorn in Zermatt is only a 3-minute walk away from the Klein Matterhorn cable car and a short walk from the village centre.

    this is very excellent property which I stayed in Zermatt

  • Silvana Mountain Hotel
    9.5
    Scored 9.5
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 162 reviews

    Rising high above Zermatt, Silvana Mountain Hotel offers rooms with flat-screen TVs and direct access to the ski slopes. Facilities include an indoor pool and a spa with hot tub and steam bath.

    The pleasant, efficient service, the spa and the bed!

  • Hotel Daniela
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 839 reviews

    The Hotel Daniela enjoys a very calm location in Zermatt, situated within a 10-minute walk from the cable cars and the train station. Free Wi-Fi is featured throughout the property.

    Very good interior decoration and very tasty breakfast.

  • Tradition Julen Hotel
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 316 reviews

    Situated a 10- 15-minute walk from the cable cars, Hotel Julen offers a traditional tavern, an elegant restaurant and a 3-storey spa area with indoor pool. All rooms have private balconies.

    Good place, nice staff, perfect desert buffet on Thursdays

  • Europe Hotel & Spa
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 368 reviews

    Offering a spa area and a restaurant, Europe Hotel & Spa is located within 700 metres from the Zermatt Train Station, the Zermatt-Furi Ski Lift and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Station.

    Excellent location, amazing food and delightful staff.

FAQs about hotels in Zermatt







Cosy Gem At the Foot of Matterhorn

A beautiful car-free village in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is world-famous for its skiing and mountaineering qualities. Standing in the shadow of the impressive Matterhorn, this is a true Alpine paradise, popular with both celebrities and citizens of all nationalities.

Surrounded by stunning mountains and plenty of hiking trails, Zermatt offers more than just pretty views. The nearby Sunnegga Paradise ski area needs to be accessed by 3 successive means of transport: a funicular railway, a gondola and a cable car, making it a great ride with an even better finish! And in Zermatt, there is still even more!

This lovely village is a great base for hiking on the nearby Breithorn, the easiest trek of the entire Alps, rewarding the effort with a great panorama of the snow-covered mountain tops and charming villages below.

Try mountain biking in the Zermatt area and after a very active day relax in one of the cosy restaurants and bars with an open fire and comfortable armchairs. Or just have a stroll down the main street and enjoy the view of the wooden chalets and do some window shopping.

Get there by train and choose one of over 230 accommodation options available on Booking.com: from cosy apartments to inviting hotels.

Learn more about visiting Zermatt
  • 13 attractions
  • 8 points of interest
  • 1 neighbourhood
Subscribe to receive premium deals

Prices drop the moment you sign up!

What guests said about Zermatt:

  • 10
    Scored 10

    Amazing place, highly recommend.

    Amazing place, highly recommend. We took the cog railway to the Gornergrat and the cable car to the small Matternhorn. Beautiful views. Classic breakfast - selection: salami, ham, cheeses, pastries, fruit, coffee, tea, cocoa, jams, cornflakes, yogurts, eggs... . Transportation: we mostly walked, it's not a big resort. We went to the start of the cable car in a 6-seater electric taxi. You could also pay by credit card, the taxi driver was very accommodating.
    Marichel
  • 10
    Scored 10

    Its mesmerizing and must visit place, especially during...

    Its mesmerizing and must visit place, especially during snowing time. Entire Zermatt town covered with snow is a must see. Walking around the old cobble stoned streets and the trip to Gornergrat in snowing time is a thrilling experience.
    Ravindranatha
    India
  • 10
    Scored 10

    We stopped in Zermatt as a way station so that we coud take...

    We stopped in Zermatt as a way station so that we coud take the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz, after visting Geneva for a week. The Glacier Express is a fantastic, slow train ride across the country with amazing views of the Alps and so much more. While in Zermatt, we went up to Glacier Paradise (over 13,000 feet high) so get a close up view of the Matterhorn and Alps - simply stunning. The ice cave there is pretty cool, too, all puns intended. We're not skiers and Zermatt is obviously a world-class ski resort, but there's plenty to do for non-skiers, great restaurants, and of course, the amazing scenery. It's really worth a visit as well as a ride on the Express to see the countryside. (If you're a couple, go first class and get the single seats facing each other with a table in between. Skip the meal though - it was lousy and served way too early because they have so many to serve - in our case, chicken tetrazzini at 11a.m. Not ideal. Just bring some good food on with you, and order cappuccinos or drinks on board if you want - there's service at the seats.) (The attached photos are from Glacier Paradise and it's ice cave.)
    Jeffrey
    United States
  • 6.0
    Scored 6.0

    Lively touristy town.

    Lively touristy town. Advertised as being free of cars (neccessary because of the narrow streets) In practice, so full of electric taxis and delivery vehicles that one feels no benefit. As in other winter resorts, one's enjoyment is very dependent on the weather. We were very disappointed by the poor signage for winter/in-between-season walking paths
    David
    Israel
  • 10
    Scored 10

    We chose Zermatt for a family ski vacation in late season...

    We chose Zermatt for a family ski vacation in late season and chose a chalet close to the Matterhorn Express station. We enjoyed the skiing, and on mountain dining at Chez Vrony, and Gitz-Gädi Restaurant. To get around Zermatt we utilized taxi, busses and walking. Since there are no cars it is exceptionally pedestrian friendly. Do note that free bus system closes at 7:30pm so if you stay out late you will need to walk for pay for expensive taxi. Since our chalet we had a kitchen and chose to shop at the market and prepare many of our meals which is cheaper than eating out.
    Steve M - Go Bears!
    United States
  • 10
    Scored 10

    Loved this city so much!!

    Loved this city so much!! It is a no car city, so be prepared to walk a lot! Food is expensive, so be prepared. Absolutely loved the city for walking around and enjoying the scenery of the Alps. The skiing is unmatched !
    Baily

Explore guest reviews of hotels in Zermatt

  • 9.7
    Scored 9.7
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 15 reviews
    The size of the apartment perfect for our family of 8 people. We love how Ms Susi (the host) had already provided us many ingredients (pasta) and other food (juices, bottle of wine, etc) for the first night. She was an excellent host. The best we have experienced and we have been to Zermatt more than 10 times. Each bedroom had it's own shower, which was great. And the entire apt was very clean and there was a private place for kids to place outside. Wifi worked great and everything you need for a wonderful stay was included.
    Tim
    Switzerland
  • 9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 220 reviews
    What a wonderful hotel in the heart of Zermatt. The service from arrival to departure exceptional and all the staff was helpful and friendly - one of our best ever hotel experiences. We continuously felt that they went above and beyond. The hotel itself was great with a slightly dated interior but this added to the ambiance and provided a bit more of a traditional Swiss experience. The hotel breakfast was great and although we did not dine at the hotel they seem to have two nice restaurants.
    Kobus DREYER
    United Arab Emirates
  • From € 177.39 per night
    8.3
    Scored 8.3
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 1,335 reviews
    It's hands down the best value-for-money hotel in Zermatt. The breakfast was just amazing! The staff was friendly and helpful. Every day the room was cleaned. There was a coffee machine in the room. The location was a suburb. Even though Zermatt is no ski-in ski-out resort, you can get to any lift in a manner of minutes from the hotel. You can either walk for 8-10 minutes or take the bus from under the main bridge for 5 minutes or so. There was accommodation for the ski equipment.
    ssvvee
    Bulgaria
  • 8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,379 reviews
    Incredible view of the village & the Matterhorn from our room & balcony. Elevator across the street that leads to a tunnel into the village. Sunnegga Lift 150 yards away!!! Excellent Continental Breakfast. Sweet staff that are multi lingual. Quant bar and excellent Spa in basement with hot sauna, steam room and pool/jacuzzi. Excellent restaurant across the street and another up the street one hotel away! Close but above the crowds. Best value & location in Zermatt!!
    Pete
    United States
  • From € 434.87 per night
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 316 reviews
    Nice and comfortable hotel with a great location (10 min walk from the train station), lovely touches everywhere, the place with a family business history and at the same time really modern. Really nice administrators can help you with everything and advise what things the best to do in different weather conditions. We also liked the breakfast. SPA is a great bonus. At the end of our stay hotel taxi drove us to the train station. Definitely recommend this place :)
    Yana
    Ukraine
  • From € 475.41 per night
    9.1
    Scored 9.1
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 347 reviews
    This hotel had the best customer service I have ever experienced in Switzerland. Not only were the staff super friendly and helpful, but they always offered support before it was asked. Beautiful views and a stunning outdoor jacuzzi next to a waterfall. Exceptional breakfast for a small, boutique hotel with great service. They upgraded my room giving me excellent views of the Matterhorn. I enjoyed my stay very much and would totally recommend.
    Coffin
    Switzerland
  • 9.7
    Scored 9.7
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 64 reviews
    It was a wonderful stay at the property for 7 nights. Thanks to the very humble and supportive Mr. Walter (host). He came to pick us up from the station. The property is next to a railway station and above a coop supermarket. Everything is easily accessible. All the crockery and utensils are available. Close to a ski lift and glacier paradise. I think this is one of the best properties in Zermatt.
    Deepak
    India
  • From € 183.48 per night
    8.9
    Scored 8.9
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,711 reviews
    The Walliserhof is an old-style Swiss family hotel quite near the train station (c 250m) on the main high street. V central and a convenient location within Zermatt. The room size was good (but not lavish) and met all expectations. The staff were unfailingly friendly and helpful. Breakfast was good, pretty standard fare. There is also a top-end restaurant onsite (for dinner).
    Robert
    United Kingdom
  • 9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 565 reviews
    Stunning view of the Matterhorn, stylish new boutique, hotel with comfort and character.  the breakfast in the morning was top-notch. The spa and pool areas were also wonderful, and Staff was always friendly and eager to help. We would definitely stay here again  if we ever have the privilege of returning to Zermatt.
    Christine
    United States
  • From € 207.80 per night
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 2,594 reviews
    The best part about Hotel Bahnhof is its location, its very close to Zermatt Train Station, less than a min walk. I was at the top floor, where everything is of wood and very unique bed structure which is cool. Kitchen area is huge and whatever they have there is in good quantity. Cleanliness is on top!
    Hamaan
    Germany
  • 9.1
    Scored 9.1
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 322 reviews
    everything, location , cleanliness, very well equiped , comfortable beds for a family with kids, been in zermatt a couples of time best placed have stayed, definetly will come back to this place. loved it, walking distance to everywhere near train station restaurants. really relly loved this place
    Rossi
    Dominican Republic
  • From € 273.69 per night
    8.6
    Scored 8.6
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 2,770 reviews
    I’ve stayed in many hotels and airbnbs in Zermatt before but Fleurs de Zermatt was the absolute best one so far. Beautiful and cosy room, the staff super friendly and helpful, great spa, good breakfast, and just a 5-min walk from the train station and downtown. I would go there again for sure.
    Tamara
    Switzerland
  • 9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 493 reviews
    Room spacious, comfortable, sofa bed big enough for our child to sleep, the food was delicious, matterhorn view from the balcony. Memang best dapat healing kat balkoni. It is at hill top so u can view the whole zermatt village from the hotel.
    AHMAD FIRDAUS
    Malaysia
  • From € 369.99 per night
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 609 reviews
    IIf there is an opportunity to go to Zermatt again, I will definitely choose to stay at this hotel. The room is spacious, clean, plus there is a balcony with a good view, also the hotel staff is very friendly. For me it's 5 star 👍👍👍
    Handi
    Indonesia
  • 9.4
    Scored 9.4
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 377 reviews
    We traveled across Switzerland on our holiday and the rooms at this property were the best. The decor was very well done and the space and view was excellent. The bathrooms alone were the size of some rooms in other hotels!
    Hassan
    United Arab Emirates
  • 9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 447 reviews
    The location is spectacular, looking at the Matterhorn right from my room! The staff was very attentive, and friendly. I would stay here over and over again, I think it is the best hotel in Zermatt!
    Irina
    United States
  • 8.5
    Scored 8.5
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 145 reviews
    Really nice space in Zermatt. Travelling on a budget it was great value. Well located. Excellent cooking facilities. The best thick fluffy towels.
    Paul
    Australia
  • From € 282.82 per night
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 996 reviews
    One of the best and cozy hotel in Zermatt, especially all staffs. They were soooo nice and friendly. Definitely be back!
    Kanyapat
    Thailand
  • From € 456.15 per night
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,686 reviews
    We always stay at the Hotel Bristol in Zermatt. Everything is perfect and it has the best view of the Matterhorn.
    dawn
    Canada
  • 9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 535 reviews
    Everything was just perfect I think it’s the best Hotel in Zermatt.
    Jaroslaw
    Australia

Research, refine and make plans for your whole trip