Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tickets

4.5(649)

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Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car with snow-covered peaks in Zermatt, Switzerland.
























































From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Manish Dhanetwal
SG

Manish

Singapore
Oct 2025
5/5

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Zermatt the alpine village. I am betting its best viewed in winters season. My October trip wasn't that awesome after having been to titlis and interlaken where snowy mountains with greens looked better to eyes. But matterhorn is still a beauty so yes if winters it will.be special where everything is covered. Otherwise this mountain is high as it gets. Great altitude coverage . Must visit if times allows. For skiing its a dreamland. Will visit again in winters.
Gordon Dunfee
US

Gordon

United States
Jul 2025
4/5

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+1 more

The scenery was breathtaking! We definitely recommend taking this journey to the top! On our day the Ice Palace was closed for maintenance and the sound system in the Cinema Lounge area wasn't working. Fortunately there was plenty of scenery all around to take in!
HAN HTOO NAUNG
HU

Han

Hungary
Aug 2025
5/5

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+1 more

I bought a Swiss Half Fare Card from Headout. I made the right decision to buy this card as I could save a lot of money for transportation fare. I recommended you to buy this card if you plan to visit Switzerland. Even if you visit Switzerland for 4-5 days, it is worth buying as you need to take different types of transportation to get to your destinations.
Eduardo Nuñez Treviño
MX

Eduardo

Mexico
Nov 2025
5/5
it´s very simple, pay the pass and no need to do noting else. free travel for all trains for the time that you buy it, that includes local train into de all cities.
HRADEC JAKUB
CZ

Hradec

Czech Republic
Sep 2025
5/5
Excellent product - no stress in a que in front of a cash desk and saves money. As it saves even time, this is again about saving money, because time is money. Double profit for one price, which is lower than for individually bought tickets.

Top things to do in Zermatt

What to expect at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Zermatt to Gornergrat train journey with scenic mountain views.
Klein Matterhorn cable car station atop snowy mountain, Zermatt, Switzerland.
Cable car ascending to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in the Swiss Alps.
Tourists exploring ice sculptures inside Glacier Palace at Matterhorn Glacier.
People watching a film in the Cinema Room at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Zermatt.
Viewing platform at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with mountain views and observation equipment.
Gornergrat Mountain Restaurant serving traditional alpine food with scenic mountain views.
Klein Matterhorn cable car station atop snowy mountain, Zermatt, Switzerland.
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Begin your journey at Zermatt Bergbahnen

Located just outside the car-free village center, Zermatt Bergbahnen is the official valley station for all cable cars heading to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. You can walk straight to the platform and get ready for a high-alpine ascent.

Board the gondola and rise through mountain stations

Ride the gondola through Furi, Schwarzsee & Trockener Steg to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest cable car station, often mistaken for the jagged Matterhorn, perched at 3,883 m, offering views over peaks across three nations.

Change at Trockener Steg for the final 3S ascent

Here, you’ll board the modern 3S gondola, one of the highest and most advanced in the world. With triple-cable support and panoramic glass windows, it offers a stable, silent 40-minute glide up to 3,883 meters, with the Matterhorn towering beside you.

Step into the Glacier Palace

Step out at Europe’s highest cable car station and dive straight into the ice. Just beneath your feet lies the Glacier Palace, a frozen world of glowing blue tunnels, natural ice grottos, and delicate hand-carved sculptures. It’s surreal, silent, and made for unforgettable photos.

Relax in Europe’s highest cinema

Take a seat in the cozy cinema lounge and watch short films on alpine geology, mountaineering, and local legends. It’s an unexpected dose of warmth and storytelling at nearly 4,000 meters.

Take the elevator to the 360° viewing platform

Ride a short elevator to the open-air summit terrace, the highest viewing platform in Europe. From here, enjoy sweeping views across Switzerland, France, and Italy. On clear days, you can spot Mont Blanc, Gran Paradiso, and the Matterhorn, all from one breathtaking vantage point.

Stop for a meal at the summit restaurant

Serving hearty fare and warm drinks, this self-service restaurant (not included in your Glacier Paradise tickets) offers panoramic seating with views over glaciers, snowfields, and distant alpine ridgelines. Couples may prefer off-peak hours for a quiet lunch, while families often gather around midday.

Return to Zermatt Bergbahnen with ease

All transfers are included with your ticket. Spend 2–3 hours at the top, exploring at your own pace. Descend the same scenic route or stop at mid-stations to extend your visit. Back in Zermatt, wander the village or drop by the Zermatlantis museum, tickets are available on-site.

Things to know before buying Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets

  • Weather considerations: Weather at the summit can change quickly, sometimes causing cable-car delays or cancellations. Since cancellation policies vary by ticket type, avoid booking too far in advance. Instead, reserve your slot about 4–5 days before your visit, so you can check the forecast, secure your preferred time, and skip long queues in the cold.
  • Standard tickets: Your standard tickets to the Glacier Paradise include round-trip cable car rides, access to the Glacier Palace, cinema lounge, and 360° viewing platform, with the option to hop on-and-off at mid-stations, Furi, Schwarzsee, or Trockener Steg to explore trails and mountain activities.
  • What’s not included: Premium extras like the Crystal Ride gondola or summit restaurant lunch aren't included in the ticket and can be purchased separately on-site.
  • Easy start to Zermatt: For a hassle-free start to your cable-car ascent in Zermatt, where private cars aren’t allowed, begin from Täsch and transfer to Zermatt in a shuttle. It has over 2,100 parking spaces where you can securely leave your car.
  • Save with travel passes: You can also save on your cable car ride with the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card, available to visitors outside Switzerland and Liechtenstein. With flexible validity (15 days to a month), they offer up to 50% off on this journey, as well as trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
  • Pair it with Gornergrat: To see the Alps from every angle, you can pair your visit with Gornergrat, another 3,000 m+ peak, just 33 minutes from Zermatt. With one ticket you can access Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel train and cable car, with the flexibility to do both in one day or spread them out for a slower pace.
  • Day trip from Geneva: For an end-to-end alpine experience from the village valley to the summit station, you can opt for a day-trip from Geneva. With a driver-guide and local bus access in Zermatt, you get self-paced exploration and seamless logistics, with high-altitude highlights.
  • Add paragliding to your visit: To upgrade your Glacier Paradise visit, you can also try an adrenaline-boosting paragliding experience. Safely strapped to a professional pilot, you’ll soar around 3,100 m for 25 minutes, enjoying close-up views of the Matterhorn, without any requirement of prior training.
  • Accessibility at Glacier Paradise: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is wheelchair-friendly, with accessible cable cars, elevators, and staff assistance available on request, ideal for visitors with limited mobility.
  • Health and safety guidelines: For altitude safety, children under 3 are not allowed to travel between Trockener Steg and Glacier Paradise station. The experience is also not recommended for visitors with serious heart or breathing conditions, or pregnant women.

Your Glacier Paradise day trip itineraries

Cable car ascending to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with snow-covered peaks in Zermatt, Switzerland.

Short visit: 2–3 hours

Best for: Tight schedules, day-trippers, or those catching a train

Flow:

  • Cable car ride: Travel from Zermatt to Glacier Paradise in just 40 minutes
  • Viewing platform: Soak in panoramic views of the Swiss, French, and Italian Alps
  • Glacier Palace: Walk through the ice-tunnel in 15–20 minutes
  • Return to Zermatt: Quick return in 40 minutes via the cable cars

Recommended experience

Zermatt: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Round-Trip Cable Car Ticket

Glacier Express train journey through Swiss Alps from Zermatt to St. Moritz, scenic mountain views.

Medium visit: 4–5 hours

Best for: Half-day trips

Flow:

  • Start from Täsch: Take the shuttle and reach Zermatt in 12 minutes
  • Cable car ride: Ascend to the summit station in 40 minutes
  • Glacier Palace & viewing platform: Allocate 30–40 minutes exploring the ice sculptures
  • Alpine lunch: Try fondue or rösti at the summit restaurant (meal not included in the ticket)
  • Return to Zermatt: Back in Zermatt board your shuttle to Täsch

Recommended experience

Combo (Save 3%): Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tickets with Zermatt Shuttle

Traditional houses in Zermatt, Switzerland

Full-day alpine immersion: 6–7 hours

Best for: Travellers looking for a complete day-trip

Flow:

  • Start from Geneva: Take an AC bus and reach Zermatt in 5 hrs
  • Early cable car: Board the cable car ride to the summit station
  • Cinema lounge: Relax in the cinema lounge to acclimatize yourself
  • Glacier Palace & viewing platform: Allocate around 2 hours exploring the ice sculptures and spotting peaks.
  • Return to Zermatt: Upon reaching Zermatt, spend around an hour to explore the village in a local bus (access included)
  • Optional activity: Add a paragliding experience from Zermatt to maximize your visit
  • Return to Geneva: Board the bus and return in 5 hrs

Recommended experiences

Zermatt Tandem Paragliding Tickets With Matterhorn Views

Geneva: Zermatt Day Trip & Glacier Paradise Cable Car Option

Zermatt to Matterhorn cable car routes & schedules

Zermatt to Matterhorn Cable-Car Route
Cable car ascending to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with snowy mountain backdrop.

Standard gondola (Matterhorn Express)

Base to mid-stations

  • Route: Zermatt → Furi → Trockener Steg
  • Travel time: ~12–15 minutes; runs continuously from ~8:30am to 5:30pm
  • Features: Main route for the first two legs, panoramic windows, easy transfers
Cable cars ascending to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with snowy mountain backdrop.

3S cableway (Matterhorn Glacier Ride)

Final ascent to the summit

  • Route: Trockener Steg → Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
  • Travel time: ~8–10 minutes, operates ~9am to 3:30–4pm (seasonal variations)
  • Features: High-capacity cabins, wide views, smooth final ascent
Cable car ascending snowy mountains from Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch.

Crystal ride gondola

Final ascent (optional upgrade at Trockener Steg available on-site)

  • Route: Trockener Steg → Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
  • Travel time: ~8–10 minutes; operates ~9am to 3:30–4pm (seasonal variations)
  • Features: Crystal-adorned interiors, glass floor for glacier views

Must-try experiences at Glacier Paradise

Group taking a selfie on a snowy mountain viewing platform.
Visitors exploring ice sculptures in Glacier Paradise cave.
People watching a film in the Cinema Room at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Zermatt.
Cable car ascending to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in the Swiss Alps.
Gornergrat Mountain Restaurant serving traditional alpine food with scenic mountain views.
Skiers descending snowy slopes with Matterhorn view at Gornergrat, Switzerland.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with snow-covered peaks and cable car in April, Zermatt, Switzerland.
Skiers descending snowy slopes with Matterhorn in background, Gornergrat, Zermatt.
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Panoramic platform

Step onto an open-air terrace with 360° views of 38 peaks and 14 glaciers. On clear days, spot Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and even the Italian Alps.

✅ Access included in all Glacier Paradise tickets

Glacier Palace

Descend into a frozen world of ice sculptures, crystalline tunnels, and naturally formed grottos. A slide carved into the glacier adds a playful twist.

✅ Access included in all Glacier Paradise tickets

Summit cinema

Relax in a high-altitude theatre playing short alpine films. A cozy, quiet space to take in the mountain’s history and wonder.

✅ Access included in all Glacier Paradise tickets

Crystal ride gondola

Float above the glacier in a cable car with a glass floor that turns transparent mid-ride. It’s brief but thrilling—perfect for a rush without the risk.

❌ Not included in standard Glacier Paradise tickets
👉 Upgrade at the valley station ticket counter

Summit restaurant

Dine on warm Swiss dishes with panoramic views all around. It’s Europe’s highest mountain restaurant, ideal for a scenic lunch break.

❌ Meals and drinks not included in Glacier Paradise tickets
👉 Simply walk in and order à la carte

Snow activities

Go tubing, sledding, or try beginner skiing—even in July. The snow never melts here, making it a year-round playground.

❌ Not included in standard Glacier Paradise tickets
👉 Upgrade at the valley station ticket counter

3S Info-cube

Interactive exhibits explain how the world’s highest 3S cableway was built. A quick but fascinating stop for tech and design lovers.

✅ Access included in all Glacier Paradise tickets

Gravity park

In summer, watch freestyle skiers and snowboarders tackle jumps and rails. A rare high-altitude snowpark open outside winter.

❌ Not included in standard Glacier Paradise tickets
👉 Access requires a separate ski pass or activity ticket, available at the valley station

Plan your visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - TImings
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car: 9am – 4pm (May start earlier in peak season and close earlier during poor weather)
  • Matterhorn Glacier Palace: 9am – 3:45pm
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise restaurant: 9:15am – 3:45pm
  • Duration: Plan for at least 4 hours to experience Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, including the 45-minute round-trip cable car journey from Zermatt.

Best time to visit

  • Year: Summer months, for mild weather, longer daylight, and stable conditions.
  • Day and week: Mornings for clearer views and weekdays for fewer crowds.
See the summit station schedule

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is perched at 3,883 m on the Klein Matterhorn, overlooking the Swiss and Italian Alps.

  • Address: Zermatt Bergbahnen AG – Talstation, Bahnhofstrasse 1, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland Find on maps
  • By train: Take a train to Zermatt. From Zermatt train station, walk or use the red bus to reach the Zermatt-Furi gondola at Matterhorn Talstation.
  • By gondola: Start at the Zermatt-Furi gondola station. From Furi transfer to the Trockener Steg gondola, then to Glacier Paradise.
  • By car: Park at Täsch train station, then catch a train to Zermatt (17 minutes, departing every 20 minutes). From Zermatt, it's a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) to the Zermatt-Furi gondola.
Detailed directions to the summit station
Zermatt village with snow-covered rooftops and Matterhorn mountain in the background, Switzerland.
  • Heated restrooms are located inside the main building, near the Glacier Paradise restaurant and entrance to the Ice Palace.
  • You can avail emergency first-aid room with oxygen supply for high-altitude sickness at the station.
  • Access free Wi-Fi throughout the summit station, including the Ice Palace and restaurant zones.
  • Purchase warm clothing, sunglasses, scarves and gloves from the on-site gear shop for any last-minute needs.
  • Use baby-changing facilities at the summit and at Trockener Steg for added convenience.
Man in wheelchair exploring a museum exhibit, highlighting accessibility features.
  • Wheelchair access is available on the gondolas from Zermatt to Trockener Steg and onward to the summit station. Staff are trained to assist with boarding.
  • The summit station includes ramps and elevators, making it accessible for most mobility-impaired visitors.
  • Wheelchairs can be rented from Matterhorn Talstation in Zermatt (advance reservation recommended).
  • While glacier activities and snow park areas may be challenging for wheelchair users due to snow and terrain, indoor attractions like the Glacier Palace and cinema lounge are accessible via lifts.
  • Accessible restrooms are available at Zermatt train station (fully accessible), Trockener Steg station (free and easy to locate), the summit station restaurant (accessible, CHF 2 fee), and Blauherd station (within the station).
Matterhorn mountain view in Zermatt, Switzerland with snow-covered peaks and clear blue sky.

Weather at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (3,883 m):

Spring (April to June): Cold with lingering snow; fewer crowds.

Summer (July to August): Milder, stable weather; ideal for views and snow activities.

Fall (September to November): Cooling temperatures, early snow; quieter visits.

Winter (December to March): Very cold with heavy snow and winds; great glacier views but limited outdoor access.

Check out the seasonal weather guide
Ski lift ascending towards Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in snowy Alps.
  • The summit restaurant at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers hot meals, snacks, and beverages, with seating overlooking the Swiss, Italian, and French Alps.
  • Dining isn’t included in the Glacier Paradise ticket and can be availed on site.
  • Typical menu items range from CHF 25–35 for a main dish to CHF 6–7 for a bottle of water.
  • The best time to visit is between 11 am and 2 pm, when the restaurant is fully open, and skies are clearest for views.

Visitor tips

  • Check the live summit webcam before boarding, clouds can roll in fast, and the view is half the experience. Mornings (8–10am) typically offer the clearest skies.
  • The glass-floor Crystal Ride gondola comes only every 10th car, watch for it at boarding.
  • Use the intermediate stops like Furi or Schwarzsee to break up the ride and acclimatize.
  • Use restrooms before reaching the summit; they’re limited and often busy up top.
  • The panoramic viewer at the deck requires CHF 1 coins, carry some to get close-up views of Mont Blanc and Gran Paradiso.
  • The summit restaurant gets packed between 12–2pm. Visit early or later to the peak hours, or pack snacks from Zermatt bakeries.
  • If visibility is poor, Zermatlantis (Matterhorn Museum) makes a perfect backup plan, it’s compact, fascinating, and warm.
Bragging rights included

Ride above glaciers, step inside the world’s highest palace of ice, and claim your spot at 3,883m.

Frequently asked questions about Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Can I visit without a ticket?

No. A valid ticket is required for both the gondola ride and summit entry. Tickets are named, and checked at each boarding point.

Does buying tickets online cost more?

No, online tickets often cost less than on-site purchases, offering discounts, combo options, and skip-the-line access, while offline tickets are full-priced and subject to availability.

Do I need to book in advance, even in summer?

Yes. Summer is peak season; book 4–5 days ahead to secure your slot, plan around weather, and avoid long waits at the cable car.

Does altitude sickness occur?

At 3,883 meters, some visitors may feel mild symptoms like fatigue or dizziness. To minimize discomfort, walk slowly, stay hydrated, and take breaks in indoor spaces like the summit café or cinema lounge. This activity is not recommended for visitors with serious heart or respiratory conditions.

Is the cable car ride safe for all ages?

Yes, the enclosed panoramic cabins are suitable for all age groups. However, children under 3 are not allowed to travel from Trockener Steg to the summit due to altitude concerns. Visitors under 18 are required to wear helmets.

What happens if the weather turns bad?

If the summit is closed due to adverse weather like strong winds or poor visibility, you'll generally be offered a full refund or a rescheduled visit, depending on the terms of purchase.

Is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise free with a Swiss Travel Pass?

No, it’s not free, but the Swiss Travel Pass offers a 50% discount on the Zermatt–Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car journey. You can use the pass to reduce the total fare when buying your ticket.

How many hours do you need at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?

Plan to spend at least 3.5 to 4 hours, including the 45-minute one-way cable car journey. This gives you enough time to explore the Glacier Palace, enjoy the views, grab a meal, and try snow activities without rushing.

Which is better, Jungfrau or Matterhorn?

Both Jungfraujoch and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offer distinct Alpine experiences. Jungfraujoch, reached by cog/train, offers seasonal snow and beginner-friendly glacier walks, making it family-friendly. Matterhorn, accessed by cable car, has year-round snow and high glacier terrain, with children under 3 not allowed on the final lift, making it more suitable for a raw Alpine experience.

What is the cancellation policy for Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets?

The cancellation policy can vary based on the ticket type. Typically, tickets are refundable or modifiable within 24h before the scheduled visit. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions during the booking process.

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