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Zurich to Matterhorn Day Trips

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Glacier Express train traveling through snowy Swiss Alps.

Top things to do in Zermatt

Gornergrat train traveling with Matterhorn in the background, Zermatt, Switzerland.
Gornergrat Railway
Ski lift ascending towards Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in the Swiss Alps.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Gordon Dunfee

Gordon

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

Luis

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.
Kartik Tavargeri

Kartik

Jul 2025
5/5
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+1 more

Everything. Organized to perfection.
Anette Jeske

Anette

Aug 2025
5/5
The transfer went really well. Every station is perfectly organized. No long queues, trains arrive every few minutes and gondolas run constantly. It was a super nice day as a result. Thank you
Heinz Kummer

Heinz

Jul 2025
5/5
The opportunity to see up to 34 4000-metre peaks and 14 glaciers as well as the magnificent, varied views on the Selbahn ride at a reasonable price. Plus the glacier grotto, which really impressed us. The term "glacier paradise" is no exaggeration. It's worth noting that the train route has several intermediate stations, which offers plenty of opportunities for getting on and off the train. For example, getting off at Torckenen Steg on the return journey and getting on again at Furi, after the descent had, contrary to expectations, taken its toll on our bones. Also worth mentioning during our two-night stay: The friendliness and courtesy of the locals! We are happy to recommend Zermatt in every respect.
Helena Uyana Hewage

Helena

Jul 2025
5/5
Amazing experience. Easy to go there. Everything worked perfectly. We'll definitely come back. Buying tickets from Headout worked perfectly. Received instruction were clear and easy to understand and follow
Elizabeth Balden

Elizabeth

Jun 2025
5/5
It was a beautiful ride up and down! Would do it again if we ever go back to Europe. Would recommend to anyone going to Zermatt.
ELOUARD Chantal

Elouard

Jul 2025
5/5
Easy access, beautiful scenery. Glacier Paradise great with kids

Zurich to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise at a glance

Travel from Zurich to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise on a full-day trip combining comfortable Swiss train travel with a cable car ride to Europe’s highest mountain station.

Overview

  • Distance from Zurich: ~380km
  • Travel time: 3.5–4 hours each way (train + cable cars)
  • Trip duration: 12–14 hours
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Zurich HB (main station)
  • Cost range: CHF 160–320+ depending on package
  • Best season: Year-round, with clearest views in late summer and winter

What to expect on a Zurich to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise day-trip

Glacier Express train crossing a stone viaduct in the Swiss Alps.
Gornergrat Railway train ascending Swiss Alps with Matterhorn in background.
Traditional houses in Zermatt, Switzerland
Cable car ascending to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in the Swiss Alps.
Visitors exploring ice sculptures inside Glacier Paradise.
Matterhorn peak reflected in Stellisee Lake in Zermatt, Switzerland.
Train traveling through Swiss countryside with mountains and chalets in view.
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Early departure from Zurich HB

Board a comfortable, panoramic train bound for the Bernese Alps and Valais region. Enjoy views of lakes, forests, and alpine villages as you journey south.

Transfer at Visp railway station

Switch trains in Visp for the mountain cogwheel railway climbing up the valley to car-free Zermatt, the gateway to the Matterhorn.

Free time in Zermatt

Wander this charming alpine village, grab a coffee or snack, and soak in Matterhorn’s first glimpses.

Cable car ascent to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Take a series of cable cars to 3,883 meters, Europe’s highest cable car stati, passing glaciers and snowy peaks.

Explore the Ice Palace and summit viewpoints

Enter the world’s highest Ice Palace, with glittering ice sculptures and tunnels. Step onto the panoramic platform for sweeping views across 38 peaks and 14 glaciers spanning Switzerland, Italy, and France.

Optional lunch or shopping in Zermatt

Sample Swiss delicacies or browse local shops before boarding your return train.

Comfortable journey back to Zurich

Relax on the scenic train ride back, arriving in Zurich by late evening.

How to get to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise from Zurich

Train on Lucerne-Interlaken Express route by Lake Sarnen, Central Switzerland, with mountain backdrop.

Train + cable car 

  • Time: 3.5–4 hours each way
  • Cost: CHF 160–220+
  • Pros: Stunning alpine views, smooth connections, no driving stress
  • Cons: Multiple train changes, longer than driving directly to Täsch
Eurail and Interrail trains crossing scenic European landscapes.

DIY drive to Täsch + shuttle train + cable car

  • Time: ~3 hours each way
  • Cost: CHF 120–180 + fuel and parking
  • Pros: Flexible schedule
  • Cons: Must park at Täsch (Zermatt is car-free), shuttle train required to travel to Zermatt

Must-see highlights of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Viewing platform at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with mountain views.

Summit viewing platform

Enjoy sweeping views from 3,883 m over 38 alpine peaks and 14 glaciers across Switzerland, Italy, and France.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car with snow-covered peaks in Zermatt, Switzerland.
Gornergrat Mountain Restaurant serving traditional alpine food with scenic mountain views.
Visitors enjoying a film at the Cinema Lounge in Zermatt's Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
Snow tubing experience at Antalya Aquarium with people enjoying the snowy slopes.

Visitor tips

  • Best time: Early mornings and late summer offer clearest views.
  • Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, layered clothing, gloves, sturdy shoes.
  • Accessibility: Cable cars and Ice Palace are accessible to wheelchair users; trains have ramps.
  • Rules: No smoking in cable cars; drones need permits.
  • Budget: Summit food is pricier—consider bringing snacks.

Frequent asked questions about day-trips to Matterhorn from Zurich

How long is the day trip from Zurich?

The whole trip usually takes about 12 to 14 hours, including travel and time to explore.

What’s included in the package?

Most packages cover your train tickets, cable car rides, entry to the Ice Palace, and sometimes a guide or meals.

Do I need to book in advance?

It’s a good idea to book 2 to 4 weeks ahead during peak season to make sure you get your spot.

Can I visit other attractions nearby?

Absolutely! Gornergrat and Sunnegga Paradise are popular nearby stops you can add to your trip.

Can I do this trip on my own?

You definitely can, but guided tours make transfers and timing easier to manage.

What if the weather is bad?

If cable cars close due to weather, most tickets are refundable or can be exchanged, so you won’t lose out.

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