Hof zur Matte
About
Hof zur Matte is a charming Swiss farm market offering families an authentic taste of Swiss life with fresh produce, artisan crafts, and regional specialties. Kids will love exploring the colorful stalls, sampling local treats, and learning about where food comes from in this hands-on cultural experience just outside Zurich.
Highlights
- ✓Sampling fresh Swiss cheeses and watching kids discover new flavors
- ✓Seasonal fresh produce displays that change throughout the year
- ✓Handmade Swiss crafts and local honey perfect for unique souvenirs
- ✓Learning about traditional Swiss farming and food production
- ✓Interacting with friendly local vendors who often offer samples
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring a small amount of Swiss Francs in cash, as many market vendors may not accept credit cards or foreign currency
- 2.Visit early in the day (morning hours) for the fullest selection and to avoid crowds, especially on weekends
- 3.Let kids bring a small backpack to carry their own purchases, making them feel involved in the shopping experience
- 4.Learn a few basic German phrases like 'Danke' (thank you) and 'Wie viel kostet das?' (how much does this cost) to engage with friendly local vendors
- 5.Bring reusable shopping bags, as Switzerland is environmentally conscious and plastic bags often cost extra
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) offer the best experience with fewer crowds and the freshest selection. Saturday mornings are busier but have a lively atmosphere that older kids might enjoy.
What to Know
Free to browse, you only pay for what you purchase. The market operates year-round daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. English is widely understood in the Zurich region, but German is the primary language.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with seasonal produce varieties. Summer and fall offer the most abundant fresh fruit and vegetable selections. December may feature special holiday items and festive atmosphere.
Nearby Eats
Horgen's lakefront area along Lake Zurich (about 10 minutes away) offers family-friendly cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating and beautiful views, perfect for a picnic with market purchases.
More Activities Near Horgen
Restaurant Rössli Horgen
Restaurant Rössli Horgen offers families a welcoming taste of authentic Swiss cuisine in a relaxed, child-friendly setting. Kids will love the dedicated children's menu featuring Swiss favorites adapted for young palates, while parents can enjoy traditional dishes in the comfortable dining room or beautiful outdoor garden during summer months. The warm atmosphere and family-oriented service make it an ideal spot for introducing children to Swiss culinary culture.
Café Horgen
Café Horgen offers a welcoming retreat for traveling families seeking a taste of authentic Swiss café culture in a relaxed, child-friendly setting. This cozy neighborhood spot serves up rich Swiss hot chocolate, fresh pastries, and light meals that appeal to both kids and parents, making it an ideal stop for breakfast, afternoon treats, or a mid-sightseeing break.
Säntis Ice Cream Shop
Säntis Ice Cream Shop is a charming neighborhood gelateria in Horgen that serves delicious homemade gelato and authentic Swiss ice cream treats. The welcoming atmosphere and outdoor seating make it an ideal spot for families to cool down after exploring the beautiful Lake Zurich area, and the reasonable prices mean you can treat the whole family without breaking the bank.
Horgen
Horgen's lakefront promenade offers families a peaceful escape with stunning Lake Zurich views, expansive grassy areas perfect for picnics and play, and easy waterfront access. This free, open-air destination is ideal for families wanting to enjoy Switzerland's natural beauty without the expense, with plenty of space for kids to run around while parents relax on benches overlooking the water.