How to visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Cable car ascending to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with snowy mountain backdrop.

Overview

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is the highest cable car station in Europe at 3,883 meters.
The experience combines cable-car rides, panoramic viewing platforms, ice tunnels
Although open year-round, the high altitude may require planning ahead

Glacier Paradise's top highlights

Snow-covered peak of Klein Matterhorn near Gornergrat Railway, Switzerland.

Navigating your way

Your journey begins at Zermatt, where you board the gondola to Trockener Steg before switching to the Matterhorn Glacier Ride to reach the summit
Weather can affect visibility and cable car schedules, so check forecasts before booking

Check seasonal weather here

Matterhorn mountain reflecting in a lake, Zermatt, Switzerland.

Plan your day

Quick visit (2–3 hrs): Cable car ride → Glacier Paradise station
Half-day (4–5 hrs): Täsch Shuttle → Cable car ride → Glacier Paradise station
Full day (6+ hrs): Start from Geneva → Cable car ride → Glacier Paradise station

Get detailed itineraries

People making snow angels with Matterhorn in the background, Zermatt to Gornergrat train visible.

Handy tips

Book tickets in advance to avoid queuing in uncertain weather conditions
Use restrooms before reaching the summit; they’re limited and often busy up at the top
Take it slow, stop at the cinema lounge or the restaurant to acclimatize

What are the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise opening hours?

Daily: 8:30am to 4:30pm (last ascent)

Last descent: The final cable car back to Zermatt usually departs around 4:30–5pm, depending on the season. Always check the day’s schedule at the base station.

Closure: The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is open year-round, but operations may be suspended due to high winds, heavy snowfall, or poor visibility. Seasonal maintenance closures may also occur, usually in late spring.

NOTE: Timings vary slightly between summer and winter schedules. Confirm exact departure times on the official Zermatt Bergbahnen website before your visit.

What's the best time to visit?

At 3,883 meters, weather and visibility play a huge role in your experience at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Summer (June to September) brings clearer skies and hiking opportunities, while winter (December to March) is peak ski season with busier crowds. Shoulder months like May and October are quieter but can have weather-related closures.

Weekday vs weekend: The best time to visit is early in the morning before 10am, when skies are clearest and cable cars less crowded. Weekends see heavier traffic as against weekdays, particularly Tuesdays to Thursdays, are your best bet for fewer crowds.

Peak season vs low season: Peak crowds arrive in July–August (summer holidays) and December–February (ski season). For a calmer visit with fewer queues, target April–May or late September–October.

Check detailed guide on seasonal forecasts

Where is Glacier Paradise located

Address: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Talstation Matterhorn Express, Schluhmattstrasse 121, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland

Find on maps

Closest landmark: Gornergrat Railway Station (1 km from Zermatt station, offering another famous mountain viewpoint)

How to get to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Through Schwarzsee

By public transport

Train: Take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn from Brig or Visp to Zermatt (30-min intervals)

Taxi/Shuttle: From Täsch, reach Zermatt in 10 minutes by electric taxi or hotel shuttle

Cable Car: From Zermatt’s Matterhorn Express station, ride via Furi and Trockener Steg to Glacier Paradise (45 minutes)

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Through Trockener Steg

By car

Matterhorn Terminal Täsch: Located directly at the shuttle station, offering the most convenient access

Taxi Fredy parking: About a 5-minute walk from the shuttle station

Parking Schaller: Next to the railway station, with approximately a 1–2 minute walk to the shuttle platform

Know before you go

Average temperatures: At the summit (3,883m), temperatures average –7°C year-round, with winter lows often reaching –15°C or below. Even in summer, it can feel freezing due to wind chill.
Visibility: White-out conditions are frequent during storms, reducing visibility to almost zero. On clear days, however, views stretch across Switzerland, Italy, and France.
Weather risks: Strong winds and sudden snowfalls may lead to temporary suspension of cable cars. Always check the live forecast and lift status before planning your visit.

Get weather breakdown by seasons & months

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Facilities

Restrooms: Available at the summit station and base station for visitor convenience.
Wi-Fi access: Limited free Wi-Fi is available at the summit station.
Restaurant: Serves Swiss and international cuisine with panoramic alpine views.
Gift shop: Located at the base and summit, offering souvenirs, local crafts, and Matterhorn-themed items.
Ski & snow gear rentals: Available at the valley station in Zermatt for those planning snow activities.
Information desk: Staff provide guidance on attractions, weather updates, and ticketing.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Accessibility

Fully accessible cable cars with wide doors and level boarding for wheelchairs and strollers.
Elevators and ramps available at the summit station for access to the viewing platforms and Glacier Palace.
Accessible restrooms located at both the base and summit.
Priority assistance available for guests with limited mobility—ask at the valley station.

Dining with a view of the Matterhorn at a glacier-top restaurant.

Family-friendly dining: The summit restaurant offers children’s portions and casual dining options.
Safe walkways: Viewing areas and walkways are stroller-friendly with railings.
Snow play: Kids can enjoy year-round fun in the Snow Fun Park and safe play zones near the summit station.

Gornergrat Observatory with Matterhorn view at dusk, Zermatt, Switzerland.

Matterhorn Focus Design hotel: ~10 minutes’ walk from the cable car station, design-focused hotel with spa and Matterhorn views.
Europe Hotel & Spa: ~8 minutes’ walk from the cable car station, modern comfort with alpine touches and wellness facilities.
Hotel Bristol Zermatt: ~12 minutes’ walk from the cable car station, centrally located, family-run hotel with easy access to the Matterhorn Express.
Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Apartments: ~15 minutes’ walk from the cable car station, located in Zermatt’s old town, offering apartment-style stays with kitchen facilities.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Rules & Regulations

Children under 3 years old are not allowed to go up to the summit (3,883 m) due to altitude health risks.
Smoking is prohibited inside cable cars and indoor areas.
Pets are allowed on gondolas if leashed or in carriers, however, they are not permitted inside the Glacier Palace.
Large luggage and bulky sports equipment are not allowed on the cable cars (except skis/snowboards in winter).
Drones are not permitted without prior approval.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Is the Glacier Paradise worth visiting in summer?

Absolutely. Even in summer, the summit offers snow activities, ice sculptures, and panoramic views. It’s also cooler than the valley, making it a refreshing escape.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?

Same-day tickets are available, but queues can be long during peak seasons. Booking online in advance is strongly recommended for faster access.

Can I combine Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with other Zermatt attractions in one day?

Yes, many travelers pair Glacier Paradise with the Gornergrat Railway or a village walk in Zermatt. If you start early, it’s possible to enjoy both. Check combo tickets here.

How much time do I need at Glacier Paradise?

Plan for 3–4 hours to cover the cable car ride, Glacier Palace, cinema lounge, and viewing platforms. If you add skiing or a long meal, allow half a day.

What should I wear when visiting the summit station?

Dress in warm layers and sturdy shoes with good grip, as summit conditions stay icy year-round. Sunglasses and sunscreen are highly recommended due to snow glare. See dress code guide.

What is the timetable for the cable car to the top?

Cable cars run year-round, starting around 8:30am from Zermatt and departing every 20–30 minutes. Final return times vary by season, so always check timetable.

Do I need to worry about altitude sickness?

At 3,883m, some visitors experience shortness of breath or fatigue. Drink water, move slowly, and take breaks. If symptoms worsen, descend promptly. Altitude tips.

Is photography allowed inside the Glacier Palace?

Yes, photography is encouraged throughout the attraction, including the ice sculptures in the Glacier Palace. However, drones are not permitted without special approval.