Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Old Cable Car from Trockener Steg to Kleines Matterhorn above Zermatt in the Swiss Alps.
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Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

4.7
·214 reviews·Zermatt, Switzerland

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Old Cable Car from Trockener Steg to Kleines Matterhorn above Zermatt in the Swiss Alps.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(214 reviews)

"Higher than Jungfraujoch, this unique experience offers stunning glacier views and an enchanting ice palace."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥶 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 .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Europe's Highest Mountain Station

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

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

Breithorn Plateau Walk

Outside the station

Step onto snow and ice, even in summer, and enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding peaks, including Mont Blanc.

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Planning Your Visit

Altitude Awareness is Key

At 3,883 meters, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is Europe's highest mountain station. Visitors can experience thin air, so take it easy, stay hydrated, and be aware of potential altitude sickness, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are traveling with young children.InstagramReddit

Book Your Ascent Wisely

While the journey offers stunning views, the cable car ride can be lengthy. Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to save time. Some travelers recommend the 'Crystal Ride' for a more luxurious experience.Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light on peaks
Crowd
Low
When
Winter mornings
Why
Snowy wonderland views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Switzerland tips! #switzerland #matterhorn #zermattmatterhorn
@thelittlebasketco
94.6K likes • 2.3M views

🥶 Acclimatize to Altitude

Take it slow upon arrival. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity immediately after reaching the top.InstagramReddit

💎 Crystal Ride Upgrade

Consider the 'Crystal Ride' for a VIP experience with a glass-bottomed cabin for unique views.Instagram

Just a hike trail in Matterhorn, Switzerland 📍 (do not attempt) (IG🎥: @sivak_tomass) #Unreel #Extreme #Adventure #Matterhorn #Switzerland
@extremeofficial
49.7K likes • 3.2M views
A travel guide to: The Matterhorn Glacier paradise also known as “Klein Matterhorn”🥰 This is one of Zermatt’s top attractions and the HIGHEST mountain station in Europe! How to get there: Take the Matterhorn Express to Trockener Steg which you change cable cars 🚠 you will enjoy bored to the glacier & the Matterhorn on your way. At the top, you can visit the Ice Palace- located 15 meters belo...
jas.decker
4.6K likes • 392.3K 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.Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The Matterhorn's unique back face is best seen from here. Visit on a clear day for maximum impact.Instagram

Paid Rs.900 extra for this Luxury VVIP experience on the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Crystal ride. The entire cabin is mine. And this special VIP cabin has even glass at the bottom. Hardly anyone knows about the special crystal ride cabins available by paying just additional 11 CHF. SAVE THIS REEL so that you don’t miss the experience that you will never forget @zermatt.matterhorn @zermat...
wanderfulpassport
26.4K likes • 959.4K views

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.InstagramReddit

💎 Crystal Ride Upgrade

Consider the 'Crystal Ride' for a VIP experience with a glass-bottomed cabin for unique views.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walk on the Plateau

Don't miss the chance to walk on the snow and ice, even in summer, for a true alpine feel.Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The Matterhorn's unique back face is best seen from here. Visit on a clear day for maximum impact.Instagram

🧥 Dress in Layers

Temperatures at the summit are significantly colder than in Zermatt. Pack warm clothing.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(214 reviews)

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

Spectacular panoramic views
Unique Glacier Palace
Walking on snow/ice

What People Dislike

High altitude effects
Long cable car journey

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.Instagram+1 The entire trip offers scenic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers.Instagram

No, Zermatt is a car-free village. You'll need to park your car in Täsch and take a shuttle train to Zermatt.Instagram

The journey from Zermatt to the summit typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on connections and waiting times at the stations.Instagram

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.Instagram

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.Reddit

🎫 🎫 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.Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues at the ticket office.Instagram

Discounts may be available for children, students, and seniors. Holders of certain travel passes, like the Swiss Travel Pass, might also receive a discount.Reddit

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.InstagramReddit+1

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.Instagram

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.InstagramReddit

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.Reddit

The Glacier Palace is an underground world of ice sculptures and ancient ice formations, offering a unique and cool experience within the glacier itself.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ 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.Reddit

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.Instagram

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.TikTok

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

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers a unique adventure for families, but altitude is a key consideration. Children under two are not advised to visit due to the high elevation.Instagram For older children, the Glacier Palace with its ice sculptures is a magical experience.Instagram+1 The opportunity to walk on snow and ice, even in summer, is also a thrilling novelty. Ensure your children stay hydrated and monitor them for any signs of altitude sickness. Pack warm clothing, as temperatures are significantly colder than in Zermatt.

🚶‍♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers

While the primary attraction is the panoramic view and the Glacier Palace, the Breithorn Plateau offers a chance for a unique alpine walk.Reddit For the truly adventurous, guided tours are available to climb the Breithorn, a relatively accessible 4,000-meter peak.Reddit The sheer scale of the glaciers and the rugged terrain provide a stunning backdrop for any outdoor enthusiast. Remember to be prepared for cold weather and varying snow conditions, even in summer.

📸 Photographers

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is a photographer's dream, offering iconic views of the Matterhorn's distinctive back face.Instagram The panoramic platforms provide sweeping vistas of the Alps, and the Glacier Palace offers a unique, albeit challenging, indoor photographic subject.Instagram Aim for clear days for the best visibility. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and a polarizing filter to enhance the contrast of the snow and sky. Be mindful of the cold affecting your camera's battery life.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey Up: A Scenic Ascent

The ascent to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is an experience in itself. You'll board a series of cable cars and gondolas, each stage revealing increasingly dramatic Alpine vistas. The journey from Zermatt to Furi, then to Trockener Steg, and finally to the summit station, is designed to showcase the magnificent landscape.Instagram As you climb higher, the air thins, and the scale of the mountains becomes truly apparent. Keep your eyes peeled for the unique back face of the Matterhorn, which is particularly striking from this vantage point.Instagram

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.Instagram 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

At 3,883 meters, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is home to the world's highest Glacier Palace. Descending 15 meters below the surface, you enter a mesmerizing realm of ice sculptures and ancient ice formations.Instagram+1 The art of ice sculpting is on full display here, with intricate designs carved into the solid ice, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere. The sheer volume of ice surrounding you is a powerful reminder of nature's artistry and the slow, constant movement of the glacier.

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.Reddit 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.Reddit

Altitude Considerations and Visitor Well-being

It's crucial to be aware of the altitude when visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. At 3,883 meters, the air is significantly thinner than at sea level, which can affect individuals differently.Reddit Visitors are advised to take it easy upon arrival, stay well-hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities immediately after reaching the summit. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, dizziness, and nausea.Instagram

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.Instagram 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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