Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Klein Matterhorn
Europe's highest cable car station at 3,883 meters. You can get close to the northeast face of the Matterhorn, look out over the Alps of Italy, France and Switzerland, and explore an ice palace inside the glacier.
Glacier Paradise sits on the summit of Klein Matterhorn at 3,883 meters, making it Europe's highest cable car viewing station. From the Matterhorn Express cable car station at the southern end of Zermatt, the trip passes Furi and Trockener Steg. There you transfer to the Matterhorn Glacier Ride, a three-cable system opened in 2018, where some cabins are decorated with Swarovski crystals and their floors can turn transparent. The whole trip takes about 45 minutes.
Highlights at the top include:
• A 360-degree observation platform on the top level. On clear days you can see Mont Blanc and the plains of Italy.
• An ice palace excavated 15 meters beneath the glacier, with ice sculptures and an ice slide.
• A cinema and restaurant.
Since 2023, the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing cable car has allowed passengers to continue across the border to Cervinia, Italy. This is also a glacier ski area that is open all year. Round-trip tickets cost roughly CHF 110 to 150, varying with the season. Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a 50% discount.
Note that the altitude is close to 4,000 meters, so altitude sickness is a real risk. Avoid running or jumping after you arrive, and limit time spent outdoors. Don't go up on overcast days when visibility is poor. Bring your passport if you plan to cross into Italy.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–16:30 (last ascent approx. 15:30; varies by season)