What is the Gornergrat?
The Gornergrat is a rocky ridge above Zermatt reached by Switzerland's first electric cog railway, opened in 1898. From the summit station at 3,089 m, you get one of the most famous views in the Alps: the Matterhorn on one side and the Monte Rosa massif, Switzerland's highest mountain, above the vast Gorner Glacier on the other.
At the top, there's an observation platform, the Kulmhotel Gornergrat with its twin observatory domes, a restaurant, and a short trail to the summit cross.
Tickets
The Gornergrat Railway uses dynamic pricing, so booking online in advance is often cheaper than at the station, and peak days cost more. Peak Pass and multi-day tickets cover other Zermatt lifts too.
It isn't free with the Swiss Travel Pass
The pass covers the journey to Zermatt but only gives 50% off the Gornergrat Railway.
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How to see the Matterhorn at its best
- Check the webcam before buying: the Matterhorn is often hidden by cloud.
- Go early: mornings are usually clearest.
- Sit on the right going up.
- Get off at Rotenboden on the way down and walk to the Riffelsee (about 15 minutes) for the famous Matterhorn reflection, then on to Riffelberg station (summer only).
- Consider a sunrise trip or a night at the Kulmhotel.
Getting there
Zermatt is car-free. Take the train from Visp or Brig, or park in Täsch and take the shuttle train (12 minutes). The Gornergrat station is opposite Zermatt's main railway station.
Tips
- Bring warm layers: it's often below freezing at the top, even in summer.
- Wear sunglasses and sunscreen: the light is intense.
- Take it slowly: some people feel the altitude.
- Hike down part of the way in summer: Rotenboden to Riffelberg is the classic easy section.
Gornergrat or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?
The Gornergrat gives the classic face-on view of the Matterhorn, with glaciers all around. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn) is higher (3,883 m) and closer, with a glacier palace, but the Matterhorn looks less iconic from there. If you only do one, choose the Gornergrat.
What's at the top
- The viewing platform, with the Matterhorn to the west and Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier to the east.
- The Kulmhotel Gornergrat, with a restaurant, a self-service café and hotel rooms for sunrise.
- Zooom the Matterhorn, an interactive exhibition at the top station.
- The summit cross, a short walk up from the station.
Mistakes to avoid
- Assuming the Swiss Travel Pass covers it.
- Going up in cloud: check the webcam first.
- Sitting on the left going up.
- Underdressing: it's often below freezing at 3,089 m.
- Planning the Riffelsee walk in winter: the trail is snowbound.
The journey up
The railway climbs nearly 1,500 m from Zermatt through larch forest, past the Riffelalp resort and the Riffelberg plateau, to the rocky summit station. The Matterhorn comes into view almost immediately and stays on your right most of the way. On the way down, many visitors stop at Rotenboden or Riffelberg for a short walk or lunch, then catch a later train: tickets allow you to break the journey.
Sunrise and sunset
In summer, special early trains take visitors up for sunrise, when the first light turns the Matterhorn pink. Staying at the Kulmhotel lets you see sunset and sunrise without the trains. Check the railway's timetable for sunrise departures.
Is the Gornergrat worth it?
On a clear day, yes: it's one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the world. On a cloudy day, wait if you can.
FAQs
How much is the Gornergrat train?
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About CHF 96 return in winter and CHF 130-140 in summer, with dynamic pricing. The Swiss Travel Pass and Half Fare Card give 50% off.
How long is the Gornergrat train ride?
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About 33 minutes each way.
Which side should I sit on?
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The right-hand side going up, for the Matterhorn.
When is the Gornergrat least crowded?
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Early trains and late afternoon. Check our live crowd tracker for your date.
Can I hike down from the Gornergrat?
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In summer, yes. The easiest section is from Rotenboden past the Riffelsee to Riffelberg, then you can take the train again.
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How we research: every guide is written by the BeatTheCrowd team from official sources and recent traveller reports, cross-checked against each other, and dated so you know how fresh it is. Last checked 29 October 2026. Prices and rules change, so always confirm on the official site before you book.
