Experience the best of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

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Mountain Excursions

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

Ride to Europe’s highest mountain station at 3,883m, or choose a hassle-free shuttle to Zermatt.

Everything you get: The cable car to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers round-trip rides from Zermatt, with hop-on, hop-off access at Furi, Schwarzsee, and Trockener Steg, and includes access to the viewing platform, Glacier Palace, and Cinema Lounge, bike transport to Trockener Steg, and local bus travel within Zermatt. Alternatively, you can choose a shuttle-only ticket, which includes transportation to Zermatt.
Why choose this: One ticket keeps your trip simple, whether you’re heading to the summit for glacier views or choosing shuttle-only travel to Zermatt without arranging separate transport.
Upgrades: Use your Swiss Travel Pass to enjoy discounted cable car travel to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Explore at your pace

Transfers available

Two peaks, one epic day

Glacier Paradise + Gornergrat = Zermatt’s full story. Pair your visit with the Gornergrat summit at 3,089m with cogwheel train and cable cars included. One ticket, two perspectives, real savings.

Matterhorn peak viewed from Gornergrat, surrounded by snow-covered Alps.

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Combos

Combo (Save 5%): Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car + Gornergrat Railway Tickets

Two Swiss peaks & two record-breaking rides in one seamless ticket to Europe’s highest cable car and open-air railway.

Everything you get at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Ride to Europe’s highest cable car station in a gondola with stopovers en route. See the jagged Matterhorn up close, explore the Glacier Palace and cinema, then descend to Zermatt and tour its car-free streets with local bus access.
Everything you get at Gornegrat: Take a round-trip journey on the historic Gornergrat Bahn to 3,089 meters, skipping queues for a smooth start. Soak in the postcard Toblerone view of the sharply sculpted Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, explore summit trails, scenic photo points, at your own pace.
Why choose this combo: Tackle Zermatt’s top two bucket-list experiences in one cost-effective, convenient ticket. Explore in any order, at your own pace; perfect for ambitious explorers.

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Free cancellation

Explore at your pace

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Combos

Combo (Save 3%): Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Tickets With Zermatt Shuttle

From Täsch terminal to the Glacier Paradise summit; no navigating Zermatt’s car restrictions, only smooth travel.

Everything you get with the Täsch–Zermatt Shuttle: Enjoy a quick 12-minute shuttle ride covering the short 5.8 km from Täsch to car-free Zermatt; skip the parking stress and step straight into your Alpine adventure, relaxed and ready.
Everything you get at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Ascend from Zermatt to the Matterhorn station on a round-trip cable car ride with optional scenic stopovers at Furi, Schwarzee, and Trockener Steg. Step into a world of glowing ice sculptures at the Glacier Palace, soak in sweeping views from the panoramic deck, then return and explore Zermatt’s charming streets at ease with included local bus access.
Why choose this combo: Zermatt is car-free, and Täsch is the only access point by road. This ticket covers your shuttle from Täsch to Zermatt and back, giving you smooth, break-free access to the Alps with zero planning hassle.

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Explore at your pace

Go beyond the summit station!

Zermatt offers more than just Glacier Paradise. Enhance your Alps experience with a tandem paragliding flight for aerial views of the Matterhorn and surrounding 4000m peaks.
“Tandem” means you’ll fly with a certified pilot, ensuring comfort and safety throughout.

Zermatt village with snow-covered rooftops and Matterhorn mountain in the background, Switzerland.

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Train Passes

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

What to bring

Carry a digital or printed copy of your Swiss Half Fare Card during all journeys.
Keep a valid discounted travel ticket for every journey you take.

Accessibility

Staff are available for guests requiring disability assistance.

Additional information

This pass is valid only for residents outside of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
The Half-Fare Card does not give free or reduced museum entry.
Children below the age of 16 can travel free when accompanied by a parent.
Seat reservations are mandatory on select panoramic trains, including Bernina, Glacier, and Gotthard Express. Follow the reservation instructions in the ticket you receive post-booking.

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Check availability

Explore at your pace

Transfers available

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Combos

Round-Trip Train Tickets to Gornergrat from Zermatt + Zermatt Shuttle Tickets

Travel stress-free with shuttle tickets to Zermatt and skip-the-line train tickets to Gornergrat.

Hop on the modern Zermatt shuttle for a seamless round-trip journey between Täsch and Zermatt.
Enjoy the convenience of shuttle passes valid for 30 days, offering unmatched flexibility for your travel plans.
Get priority access to board the train to Gornergrat first and choose the best seats for amazing views of the Swiss Alps.
The Gornergrat Railway, the world’s first fully electrified cog railway, gives you amazing 360-degree views of the Matterhorn.
At the Gornergrat summit, enjoy views of over 28 other peaks above 4,000 meters and explore ZOOOM the Matterhorn, a multimedia exhibition on its nature, history, and geology.

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Explore at your pace

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Train Passes

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

Accessibility

Staff are available for guests requiring disability assistance.

Additional information

This pass is valid only for residents outside of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Children aged 15 years and under travel free when accompanied by a parent.
Seat reservations are mandatory on select panoramic trains. Please follow the reservation instructions in the ticket you receive post-booking.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Explore at your pace

Transfers available

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Skydiving

Zermatt Tandem Paragliding Tickets With Matterhorn Views

Strap in with a pro pilot and soar 3,100 m above Zermatt for heart-pounding, front-row views of the Matterhorn.

Everything you get: Take off on a 25-minute flight, with a certified pilot guide, soaring alongside the Alps' 4,000-meter peaks. You’ll launch from Rothorn or Blauherd, peaks picked on the day for optimal flying. Gear, prep, and a smooth return to Zermatt included.
Why choose this: Zermatt is one of the few places in the world where you get aerial views of the Matterhorn and see peaks spanning Switzerland, Italy, and France. You also do not need to worry about prior training, flying safely with a licensed pilot on a fully beginner-friendly experience.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr 45 mins

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Top things to do in Zermatt

Gornergrat Railway

from

CHF 66

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Slide 1 of 4

At a glance: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and cable car ride

Ride from Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and take in sweeping alpine views, glacier landscapes, and the iconic Matterhorn from one of Europe’s highest cable car stations.

Sights covered: Matterhorn, Zermatt valley, Furi, Trockener Steg, Theodul Glacier, Swiss Alps, and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Ride duration: Around 40–45 minutes from Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, including transfers
Departure point: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise valley station in Zermatt
Schedule: Cable cars generally operate daily, with timings and maintenance closures varying by season and weather; check live lift status before visiting
Inclusions: Round-trip cable car access, panoramic viewing platform, summit facilities such as Glacier Palace/Cinema Lounge where available, and optional Crystal Ride upgrades on select routes.

Cable car ascending Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with snowy mountain backdrop.

Your Zermatt to Matterhorn cable car route

Zermatt to Matterhorn cable car schedules

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

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

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

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.

Compare your ticket options

Ticket type	Includes	Best if you want...	Tickets to consider
Round-trip cable car tickets	Return cable car access from Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, with views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, and surrounding Alps.	A simple, flexible way to visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise without adding extra transport or activities.	From Zermatt: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Round-Trip Cable Car Tickets
Day-trip tickets	Guided or organized day trip from Geneva to Zermatt, plus Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car access.	A hassle-free Matterhorn experience from Geneva with transport and sightseeing planned for you.	From Geneva: Zermatt & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Day-Trip
Combo tickets with Gornergrat	Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car access plus tickets for the Gornergrat Railway or round-trip train to Mount Gornergrat.	To see the Matterhorn from two iconic viewpoints in one trip: Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat.	Combo: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car + Gornergrat Railway Tickets; Round-Trip Train Tickets to Mount Gornergrat from Zermatt
Tickets with Glacier Express	Matterhorn Glacier Paradise access paired with scenic Glacier Express train journeys connecting Zermatt, Chur, and St. Moritz.	A bucket-list Swiss Alps itinerary combining cable cars, mountain views, and one of the world’s most scenic train rides.	Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Glacier Express; Combo: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Round-Trip Cable Car + Glacier Express: Zermatt, Chur and St. Moritz
Adventure sports tickets	Tandem paragliding experience over Zermatt with aerial views of the Matterhorn, guided by a professional pilot.	A more thrilling way to experience the Matterhorn beyond cable cars and viewpoints.	Zermatt Tandem Paragliding Tickets With Matterhorn Views

What you’ll see on your Zermatt to Matterhorn cable car ride

Snow-covered Matterhorn with Swiss village in foreground.

Zermatt village from above

As the cable car leaves the valley station, you’ll see Zermatt’s chalet rooftops, winding lanes, and alpine meadows spread out below.

Matterhorn Peak covered in snow under a clear blue sky, Swiss Alps.

Furi Village landscape with wooden chalets and snowy mountains in Zermatt, Switzerland.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise snowy landscape with ski tracks and mountain peaks.

Trockener Steg view of the Matterhorn with rocky terrain and a small lake.

Must-try experiences at Glacier Paradise

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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

Klein Matterhorn cable car station atop snowy mountain, Zermatt, Switzerland.

Your cable car journey starts at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise valley station in Zermatt.
The station is easy to reach from central Zermatt by electric bus, taxi, or on foot.
From Zermatt, the route typically goes via Furi and Trockener Steg before reaching Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
Arrive a little early to scan your ticket, check lift updates, and follow boarding instructions.

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

Restroom sign with wheelchair access in a hallway.

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

Couple dining at Harder Kulm restaurant with panoramic mountain view in Switzerland.

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.

Your Glacier Paradise day trip itineraries

Don’t risk missing the snow or lifts, check opening hours →

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.

Sunrise over the Matterhorn at Glacier Paradise, Switzerland, reflecting in a tranquil lake.

Frequently asked questions about Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

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

Experience the best of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

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

Combo (Save 5%): Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car + Gornergrat Railway Tickets

Combo (Save 3%): Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Tickets With Zermatt Shuttle

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

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information

Round-Trip Train Tickets to Gornergrat from Zermatt + Zermatt Shuttle Tickets

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

Accessibility

Additional information

Zermatt Tandem Paragliding Tickets With Matterhorn Views

Top things to do in Zermatt

How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

We curate the best ways to experience

We partner with the best

All the best options, in one place

Book with complete peace of mind

At a glance: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and cable car ride

Your Zermatt to Matterhorn cable car route

Zermatt to Matterhorn cable car schedules

Base to mid-stations

Final ascent to the summit

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

Things to know before buying Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets

Compare your ticket options

What you’ll see on your Zermatt to Matterhorn cable car ride

Zermatt village from above

Must-try experiences at Glacier Paradise

Panoramic platform

Glacier Palace

Summit cinema

Crystal ride gondola

Summit restaurant

Snow activities

3S Info-cube

Gravity park

Plan your visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Best time to visit

Your Glacier Paradise day trip itineraries

Visitor tips

Frequently asked questions about Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Can I visit without a ticket?

Does buying tickets online cost more?

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

Does altitude sickness occur?

Is the cable car ride safe for all ages?

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise free with a Swiss Travel Pass?

How many hours do you need at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?

Which is better, Jungfrau or Matterhorn?

What is the cancellation policy for Matterhorn Glacier Paradise tickets?

More reads

About

Weather

Plan your visit

Base to mid-stations

Final ascent to the summit

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

Best time to visit

About

Weather

Plan your visit

Short visit: 2–3 hours

Medium visit: 4–5 hours

Full-day alpine immersion: 6–7 hours

Top things to do in Zermatt

Experience the best of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

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

What to bring

Accessibility

What’s not allowed

Additional information

Combo (Save 5%): Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car + Gornergrat Railway Tickets

Combo (Save 3%): Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Tickets With Zermatt Shuttle

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

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information