Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tickets

4.4(1,204)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

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
























































From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
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!
Luis Perfecto
PA

Luis

Panama
May 2025
5/5
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This experience is perfect for my first time using the app, everything was very fast, I showed the reservation I made in the app and they already had my ticket printed, it didn't even take 2 minutes to check me in.
Ketan Somvanshi

Ketan

Mar 2025
4/5
Switzerland trip was the highlight of my year. And swiss pass made it really really easy. Combined this with Bernese Oberland Pass and we had a magical comute experience in the Alps
Kevin

Kevin

Nov 2024
5/5
This pass worked wonders and is such a great deal for anyone who wants to experience a flexible trip in Switzerland. I used this card to visit Jungfraujoch and also took scenic trains. The discounts were huge. I also found the card super easy to use.
Deborah Preston
NZ

Deborah

New Zealand
Aug 2025
5/5
What a AWESOME one fit pass - it made travelling in Switzerland affordable and allowed us to enjoy all of the boats/ferrys/cable cars/vaniculars/trams and incredible train routes........Switzland is an incredible country full of great transport options and this pass gave us the ability to use all of these. Even the bernina express tickets were included. You can't go wrong with this pass.
Megha Mini Reghunathan
FR

Megha

France
Aug 2025
5/5
Through the window, the Swiss landscape was a treat for the eyes and heart. The view shifted from snow-capped peaks to lakes. Along the way, the wooden house in the greenish landscape was a pictoriq view.

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, this section offers a stable, silent 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 (not included)

Serving hearty fare and warm drinks, this self-service restaurant 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. Most visitors spend around 2–3 hours at the top, enjoying the attractions at a relaxed pace. Descend via the same scenic route, or pause at intermediate stations to stretch out your mountain experience.

Things to know before buying Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets

  • At the summit station, weather can be unpredictable, causing cable-car delays or even cancellations. Booking 4-5 days ahead after checking the forecast helps you plan around these disruptions, avoid queues, and secure your preferred time slot.
  • 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.
  • Premium extras like the Crystal Ride gondola or summit restaurant lunch aren't included in the ticket and can be purchased separately on-site.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is wheelchair-friendly, with accessible cable cars, elevators, and staff assistance available on request, ideal for visitors with limited mobility.
  • 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 Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets explained

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

Standard tickets

  • Access to all Matterhorn highlights (cable cars, Glacier Palace & cinema lounge)
  • Includes hassle-free round-trips, saving logistics troubles

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.

Combos

  • Choose to visit two iconic peaks in one seamless route or have the flexibility to space your visit
  • Opt for a shuttle from Täsch for a hassle-free start, round-trip and alpine essentials covered, no parking stress in car-free Zermatt

Recommended experiences

From Zermatt: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Round-Trip Cable Car Tickets + Gornergrat Round-Trip Train Tickets

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

Traditional houses in Zermatt, Switzerland

Day-trip

  • A full Alpine experience for visitors from Geneva without overnight planning 
  • Offers flexibility to explore the village at your own pace coupled with upgrade options to include the summit experience

Recommended experience

Geneva: Zermatt Day Trip & Glacier Paradise Cable Car Option

Paraglider soaring near Matterhorn Peak, Gornergrat, showcasing alpine landscape.

Sky-high experience

  • Enjoy high-altitude views with guided safety

  • Protective gears, equipment, and pilot assistance are included

Recommended experience

Paragliding Experience : Matternhorn Zermatt

Gornergrat Railway train ascending Swiss Alps with Matterhorn in background.

Travel passes

  • Budget-friendly option for extended travel, useful if you’re visiting multiple destinations and want to cut down on ticket costs
  • Offers 50% off Glacier Paradise tickets and other rail/mountain lines

Recommended experiences

Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat

Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% Discount on Train, Bus & Boat Tickets for 1 Month

Glacier Paradise top highlights

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: 8:30am – 5pm (May start earlier in peak season and close earlier during poor weather)

The 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:

Best time of the year: Summer months, for mild weather, longer daylight, and stable conditions.

Best time of the day and week: Mornings for clearer views and weekdays for fewer crowds.

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. It's a 2.5-hour journey from Interlaken, 4 hours from Zurich HB.

By gondola: Start at the Zermatt-Furi gondola station. From Furi transfer to the Trockener Steg gondola. Board the Trockener Steg to Matterhorn 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.

How to reach Matterhorn Glacier Paradise from Zermatt?
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.

Plan ahead with the Glacier Paradise weather guide
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Tips
  • Bring sunglasses as sun glare off the snow is intense even on cloudy days.
  • Use the intermediate stops like Furi or Schwarzsee to break up the ride and acclimatize.
  • Glacier Paradise is often colder than expected, check summit temperature, not just Zermatt’s.
  • Avoid overpacking, only essentials like water, gloves, and camera are needed.
  • Use restrooms before reaching the summit; they’re limited and often busy up top.
  • The air is dry and thin—apply lip balm and take deep, steady breaths while walking.
  • Don’t rush—spend at least 15–20 mins inside the cinema or café to recover from altitude.
  • The glass-floor Crystal Ride gondola comes only every 10th car—watch for it at boarding.
Plan your visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Nearby alpine adventures

Gornergrat

Gornergrat

Just 6.5 km from Klein Matterhorn, this summit offers sweeping Matterhorn views and other iconic Swiss peaks.

Book Gornergrat Railway tickets
The Matterhorn Museum

Matterhorn Museum

Discover Zermatt’s mountaineering heritage and the Matterhorn’s cultural legacy, just 9.1 km away.

Klein Matterhorn

Gorner Gorge

Walk wooden bridges through a canyon of turquoise pools and striking rock formations, 7.9 km from Klein Matterhorn.

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

Theodul Glacier

Hike from the Klein Matterhorn area towards the glacier, following the Glacier Paradise hiking trail.

Frequently asked questions about Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Can I visit without a ticket?

No, a valid ticket is required for both the cable car and summit access. Tickets are issued by name and are non-transferable

Does buying tickets online cost more?

No. In fact, booking online can offer discounts, combo deals, and helps you avoid long queues, especially during peak seasons.

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

Yes. Summer is the busiest season, and booking in advance ensures your preferred time slot and a smoother visit.

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 stunning Alpine experiences, but appeal to different preferences—Matterhorn is more serene with panoramic views across three countries and year-round snow sports, while Jungfrau is more commercial, with a higher elevation, train access, and attractions like an ice bar and Lindt shop.

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 a specific timeframe before the scheduled visit. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions during the booking process.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.