Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Europe's highest mountain station at 3,883m, offering breathtaking Matterhorn views and a magical ice palace.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's highest mountain station at 3,883m, offering breathtaking Matterhorn views and a magical ice palace.
"Higher than Jungfraujoch, this unique experience offers stunning glacier views and an enchanting ice palace."
🥶 Acclimatize to Altitude
Take it slow upon arrival. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity immediately after reaching the top .
💎 Crystal Ride Upgrade
Consider the 'Crystal Ride' for a VIP experience with a glass-bottomed cabin for unique views .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Europe's Highest Mountain Station
Top of Klein Matterhorn
Ascend to 3,883 meters for unparalleled panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the iconic Matterhorn.

The Enchanting Glacier Palace
Inside the glacier
Explore a magical world of ice sculptures and ancient ice formations 15 meters below the surface.

Breithorn Plateau Walk
Outside the station
Step onto snow and ice, even in summer, and enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding peaks, including Mont Blanc.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Awareness is Key
Book Your Ascent Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥶 Acclimatize to Altitude
Take it slow upon arrival. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity immediately after reaching the top.
💎 Crystal Ride Upgrade
Consider the 'Crystal Ride' for a VIP experience with a glass-bottomed cabin for unique views.
🚶♀️ Walk on the Plateau
Don't miss the chance to walk on the snow and ice, even in summer, for a true alpine feel.
📸 Capture the Views
The Matterhorn's unique back face is best seen from here. Visit on a clear day for maximum impact.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥶 Acclimatize to Altitude
Take it slow upon arrival. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity immediately after reaching the top.
💎 Crystal Ride Upgrade
Consider the 'Crystal Ride' for a VIP experience with a glass-bottomed cabin for unique views.
🚶♀️ Walk on the Plateau
Don't miss the chance to walk on the snow and ice, even in summer, for a true alpine feel.
📸 Capture the Views
The Matterhorn's unique back face is best seen from here. Visit on a clear day for maximum impact.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures at the summit are significantly colder than in Zermatt. Pack warm clothing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for its unparalleled high-altitude views and the unique experience of the Glacier Palace. Many find it a more distinctive experience than other Swiss peaks. While the journey is long and the altitude can be a factor, the breathtaking scenery and icy wonders make it a highly recommended destination.
"I’m not sure why Gornergrat gets all the attention when the trip to Klein Matterhorn is both slightly cheaper and offers a much more unique experience. If I could have only done one it would definitely have been this one.
At 3,883 m, this is the highest you can get in Europe by cable car - higher than even Jungfraujoch. The journey itself has some nice views as you go up and down from station to station. As you near the top, passing over an astonishing glacier, the air gets thin and I noticed myself getting tired just walking up a slope! But it is so worth it.
Walk down a few steps and you can step out on to the Breithornplateau, 3.8 km high, and walk on snow and ice, even in the middle of August. And of course enjoy the view of the Matterhorn, but also nearby Breithorn, which you can climb if you’re feeling fit. On a clear day like when I visited, you can even see Mount Blanc 70 km away on the horizon.
You can even walk across the snowy plateau to Italy if you like. There is a real sense of the icy expanse.
As a bonus the ice caves within the glacier are a really neat experience. The ice sculptures are cool (literally) and you really get a sense of wonder at the sheer amount of ice all around you, slowly sliding down the mountain.
Definitely worth it."
Matt Durrant
"Great experience at the top of the Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland. Three cable cars to reach the top. Apart from the amazing views, there is also the opportunity to walk through a crevice in the glacier. Climbing to 12700 feet was definitely a wonderful experience."
Cesar Teves
"Admiring the beautiful mountains above the white clouds, although a little cold, it feels like being in heaven. My soul is instantly cleansed, and I feel the insignificance of human beings and the magnificence of nature."
Juireat Suiraet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The journey involves multiple cable car rides. From Zermatt village, walk or take an e-taxi to the gondola station. Take the Matterhorn Express to Furi, then change to another cable car towards Trockener Steg, and finally to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
The entire trip offers scenic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers.No, Zermatt is a car-free village. You'll need to park your car in Täsch and take a shuttle train to Zermatt.
The journey from Zermatt to the summit typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on connections and waiting times at the stations.
While the primary route is via cable car from Zermatt, some may consider accessing it from Cervinia in Italy, though this often involves a longer journey and different cable car systems.
The most common and scenic way to reach Zermatt is by train from major Swiss cities like Zurich or Geneva. The train journey itself offers beautiful Alpine landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the season and any discounts. A round-trip ticket from Zermatt is required. While not fully covered by the Swiss Pass, you can often get a 50% discount.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues at the ticket office.
Discounts may be available for children, students, and seniors. Holders of certain travel passes, like the Swiss Travel Pass, might also receive a discount.
Operating hours for the cable cars vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times for the day of your visit.
The cable cars and main facilities at the top are generally accessible. However, navigating the ice palace and outdoor areas might present challenges due to snow and ice.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Besides the breathtaking views, you can explore the Glacier Palace with its ice sculptures, walk on the Breithorn Plateau, dine at the restaurant, and even cross into Italy.
Children under 2 are not advised to visit due to the high altitude. Older children can enjoy the ice palace and the novelty of being on a glacier, but monitor them for altitude sickness.
You'll get stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, including the Matterhorn's unique back face, Breithorn, and on clear days, even Mont Blanc.
Yes, you can walk on the snow and ice of the Breithorn Plateau. Guided tours are available for those who wish to explore further or climb the Breithorn.
The Glacier Palace is an underground world of ice sculptures and ancient ice formations, offering a unique and cool experience within the glacier itself.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant at the top offering food and drinks with incredible views. It's a great place to warm up and refuel after exploring.
The restaurant typically serves a range of Swiss and international dishes, including hearty meals suitable for a mountain setting. Expect options like pasta, soups, and local specialties.
Dining at high-altitude attractions can be pricier than in the village. It's advisable to check menus and prices beforehand if you're on a budget.
While you can bring your own snacks and drinks, there are designated areas for consumption. Enjoying a meal with the view from the restaurant is part of the experience for many.
Options can vary, but most mountain restaurants offer some vegetarian choices. It's always a good idea to inquire about vegan options upon arrival or check the menu online if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewing platforms offer incredible shots of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. The entrance to the Glacier Palace and the snowy plateau also make for dramatic photos.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting, especially during sunrise or sunset, though access might be limited. Mid-day on a clear day provides excellent visibility.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the vast landscapes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky and snow contrast.
Protect your camera from the cold and moisture. Batteries drain faster in cold temperatures. Be mindful of your surroundings and fellow visitors when composing shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in protected natural areas and near cable car infrastructure. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey Up: A Scenic Ascent
For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the 'Crystal Ride' cabins offer a more exclusive experience. These special cabins feature glass bottoms, allowing you to gaze directly down at the glacier and the terrain below, adding a thrilling dimension to the ride. This unique perspective is a highlight for many visitors and provides a different way to appreciate the immense glacial landscape.
Exploring the World of Ice
Beyond the Glacier Palace, stepping out onto the Breithorn Plateau is an absolute must. Even in the height of summer, you can walk on snow and ice, feeling the crisp alpine air and the vastness of the glacial expanse. This is your chance to truly connect with the icy heart of the Alps. On a clear day, the views extend to distant peaks, including Mont Blanc, offering a profound sense of scale and the magnificence of the natural world.
Altitude Considerations and Visitor Well-being
This high altitude also means that children under two years old are not recommended to visit, as their bodies are more susceptible to the effects of thin air. While many adults find the experience exhilarating, it's important to listen to your body. If you experience any discomfort, descend to a lower altitude. The journey itself, with its multiple cable car stops, allows for gradual acclimatization, but preparedness is key to enjoying this incredible destination safely.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit