A comprehensive guide on getting to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Where is Matterhorn Glacier Paradise located?

Address: Klein Matterhorn, Zermatt, Valais, Switzerland

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Perched high above Zermatt at 3,883 meters (12,740 ft), Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is Europe’s highest mountain station, located atop the shimmering Klein Matterhorn peak. It's surrounded by 14 glaciers and a panoramic landscape unveiling 38 “four-thousanders” across three countries, Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Closest landmark: Zermatt village center—around a 20-minute walk or a quick local e-bus ride to the cable car base station.

Getting to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise by public transport

Best for: Seamless public transport route

Travel time: ~12 minutes from Täsch to Zermatt by shuttle train, plus ~40 minutes on cable cars to the summit

Closest station: Zermatt Bahnhof (train station)

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is only accessible from Zermatt. Since the village is car-free, visitors park in Täsch or arrive by train from cities like Zurich, Geneva, or Bern, then take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn shuttle (every 20 minutes, 12 minutes ride) into Zermatt. From the station, it’s a short walk, e-bus, or taxi ride to the Zermatt Bergbahnen cable car base.

Best for: Convenience with luggage or families

Travel time: ~1 hour from Täsch to the summit (12 minutes shuttle train + 5 minutes Green Line e-bus from Zermatt station to the gondola base + ~40 minutes cable cars with changes).

Closest stop: Zermatt Bergbahnen station

After arriving in Zermatt, hop on the free Green Line e-bus that connects the train station with the gondola base. From here, board the three-stage cable car route.

Getting to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise by car

Note: Zermatt is car-free.

Driving route to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Driving route: Most travelers start from Visp, a key hub just 30-40 minutes by car from Täsch. From there, park in Täsch (5km from Zermatt), then continue with the 12-minute shuttle train to Zermatt. Täsch is the last point accessible by car, though some visitors also drive in from Brig, Geneva, Milan, or Interlaken before switching to the train.

Best for: Travelers arriving by car who need a convenient handover to the shuttle train into Zermatt.

Distance / Travel time: Täsch to Zermatt train ride takes approximately 12 minutes (shuttle train runs every 20 minutes). There's no direct road access into Zermatt for private vehicles.

Underground parking garage in Venice with parked cars.

Parking facilities in Täsch

Matterhorn Terminal Täsch: Large covered facility with 2,100 spaces, including 131 EV chargers. Amenities: lockers, luggage trolleys (CHF 5 deposit), bistro, shops, and currency exchange.

Parkhaus Bahnhof / Täscherhof: Low-cost public parking right next to the shuttle terminal (~100m). Open 24 hours, payment via machine or Hotel Täscherhof reception.

Walking to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise base station

Best for: Visitors already in Zermatt who enjoy exploring the village on foot.

Travel time: ~20 minutes

Distance: ~1 km, slightly uphill

Description: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is only accessible by cable car from the Matterhorn Express base station. From Zermatt railway station, it’s a 20-minute uphill walk. Free e-buses or local taxis are available if you prefer not to walk.

What is the best way to get to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?

Budget-friendly: Walking to the station, then using the standard return cable car ticket allows exploration with flexibility. Swiss Travel Pass holders can benefit from discounted fares.

Fastest route: Take the e-bus Green Line to the Zermatt cable car station, then cable car via Furi and Trockener Steg direct up to the summit.

To sightsee along the way: Choose the route via Schwarzsee for an extra scenic mountain stop, and longer to explore.

Detailed guide to visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise →

Frequently asked questions about getting to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

How do I reach Glacier Paradise from Zermatt?

You’ll need to take the cable car from the Matterhorn Express base station in Zermatt. It’s about a 20-minute walk or a short e-bus/taxi ride from the railway station to the base.

Is the base station easy to find once I arrive in Zermatt?

Yes, the Matterhorn Express Valley Station (Talstation) is well signposted throughout Zermatt, and most hotels or the tourist office can point you directly to it.

Which is the best route to the summit?

For speed, take Zermatt → Furi → Trockener Steg → Klein Matterhorn. For scenery, consider the detour via Schwarzsee.

Which is the cheapest way?

Walking to the base and using standard cable car tickets, Swiss Travel Pass gives a 50% discount.

Do I need to book transport from Täsch to Zermatt in advance?

It’s not strictly required, as the shuttle train runs every 20 minutes. However, during peak season or busy days, booking tickets in advance is recommended to secure your preferred departure time and avoid waiting.

Information

All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

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