Gornergrat
Ride a historic cogwheel train to the Gornergrat summit for unparalleled views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Gornergrat
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic cogwheel train to the Gornergrat summit for unparalleled views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers.
"If the weather is good then the trip is worth it."
Sit on the Right Side! 💺
For the best Matterhorn views on the train up, snag a seat on the right side.
Check Weather Before You Go ☁️
Cloudy conditions can obscure the Matterhorn. Always check the live camera or forecast.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Matterhorn Reflection at Riffelsee
Riffelsee Lake
Witness the majestic Matterhorn mirrored perfectly in the serene waters of Riffelsee. A truly magical sight!
Gornergrat Cogwheel Railway Journey
Zermatt to Gornergrat
Ride the historic cogwheel train for breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and glaciers.
360° Panoramic Views
Gornergrat Summit
Soak in unparalleled 360-degree vistas of snow-capped peaks, including the iconic Matterhorn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weather is Key!
Book Gornergrat Tickets Smartly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sit on the Right Side! 💺
For the best Matterhorn views on the train up, snag a seat on the right side.
Check Weather Before You Go ☁️
Cloudy conditions can obscure the Matterhorn. Always check the live camera or forecast.
Pack Layers! 🧥
Temperatures at Gornergrat are significantly colder than in Zermatt. Bring warm clothing.
Hike Down for Views 🚶♀️
Consider hiking down from Gornergrat to Riffelberg for incredible scenery and photo ops.
Tips
from all over the internet
Sit on the Right Side! 💺
For the best Matterhorn views on the train up, snag a seat on the right side.
Check Weather Before You Go ☁️
Cloudy conditions can obscure the Matterhorn. Always check the live camera or forecast.
Pack Layers! 🧥
Temperatures at Gornergrat are significantly colder than in Zermatt. Bring warm clothing.
Hike Down for Views 🚶♀️
Consider hiking down from Gornergrat to Riffelberg for incredible scenery and photo ops.
Swiss Travel Pass Perks 🇨🇭
A Swiss Travel Pass offers half-price tickets for the Gornergrat Railway.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking Matterhorn views and the scenic Gornergrat Railway journey. The chance to see the Matterhorn reflected in Riffelsee is a highlight for many. However, weather dependency is a significant factor, with cloudy days leading to disappointment. Some also mention the train breaking down, though replacements are usually provided.
"If the weather is good then the trip is worth it. The day we visited, the train broke down. Having been instucted to leave the carriage and wait on the opposite side, the rain came down quite heavily and all were soaked. Replacement train arrived and the journey continued. No visibilty at the summit due to cliud cover, then fine snow. Took the train down and sat in a bar, the sun came out and behind us was the Matterhorn in all its glory!"
Anthony Gibson
"Took the train to Gornergrat and hiked down to Riffelberg. Amazing views and experience. July, cool up top, shorts and long sleeves, hiked a couple hours including breaks for pictures and snacks."
Ryan Hartschuh
"Gornergrat Viewpoint (3,089m) 🏔️
• Half-price with Swiss Travel Pass 🎟️
• Train to watch landscapes shift from meadows to glaciers! 🌿❄️
• Aletsch Glacier views + 360° snowy peaks—nature’s masterpiece! ✨
⚠️ Essentials:
☑️ Sunglasses (snow glare!) 🕶️
☑️ Warm layers 🧥🧤
☑️ Check weather before heading up 🌦️"
TF Lo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Gornergrat is by taking the Gornergrat Railway (Gornergratbahn), a cogwheel train that departs from Zermatt village. The journey takes about 24 minutes to reach the summit.
No, Zermatt is a car-free village. You'll need to park your car in Täsch and take the train to Zermatt.
The Gornergrat Bahn typically operates year-round, with hours varying by season. It's best to check the official Gornergrat website for the most up-to-date schedule.
The Gornergrat Railway is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to check with the railway company for specific accessibility information if needed.
The train ride from Zermatt to Gornergrat takes approximately 24 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the season and any discounts you may have. A Swiss Travel Pass offers a 50% discount on the Gornergrat Railway.
Yes, you can purchase Gornergrat Railway tickets online in advance through the official Gornergrat website to save time.
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass provides a significant discount. Look out for 'Good Afternoon' tickets for potential savings later in the day.
The 'Good Afternoon Ticket' is a discounted fare offered by the Gornergrat Railway for travel after a certain time in the afternoon, providing a more budget-friendly option.
While not always mandatory, booking Gornergrat tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid queues.
📸 📸 Photography
The Riffelsee lake offers the most iconic reflection of the Matterhorn. The train journey itself also provides stunning photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. Don't forget sunglasses to protect your eyes from snow glare, which can also affect your photos.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for Matterhorn photos. However, clear mornings are generally best for the Riffelsee reflection.
Absolutely! The Gornergrat Railway journey offers continuous scenic views, making it a fantastic opportunity for photography from your seat.
Travelers often highlight Riffelsee for reflections and various viewpoints along the train route and at the summit for panoramic shots.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
At Gornergrat, you can enjoy breathtaking Matterhorn views, take short hikes, visit Riffelsee for reflections, and dine at the summit restaurants.
Gornergrat is situated at an altitude of 3,089 meters (10,131 feet) above sea level.
Yes, Gornergrat is a great starting point for various hikes, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. The hike down to Riffelberg is popular.
Dress in layers! It's significantly colder at the summit than in Zermatt. Include warm clothing, a windproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes.
Yes, there are dining options at the Gornergrat summit, including restaurants with stunning views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and warm clothing, as temperatures can be much cooler at the summit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The Gornergrat Railway journey itself provides continuous opportunities for dramatic landscape photography, with panoramic views unfolding at every turn. At the summit, the 360-degree vistas offer endless possibilities for capturing the grandeur of the Swiss Alps.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
When planning your hike, always check the weather conditions and wear appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots and layered clothing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gornergrat Railway Experience
The railway operates year-round, making Gornergrat accessible in all seasons. During winter, it transforms into a 'Polar Express' like journey through a snowy wonderland.
In autumn, the landscape is painted with golden larches, adding another layer of beauty to the ascent. +1 The frequent departures mean you have flexibility in planning your trip. For those seeking a unique overnight experience, the Igloo Village near Rotenboden station offers a chance to sleep under the stars with Matterhorn views, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway.
Chasing the Matterhorn Reflection at Riffelsee
+2To capture the perfect reflection, timing is crucial. Early mornings, especially during calm weather, offer the best chance for a clear mirror-like surface.
The reflection is most striking when the Matterhorn is fully visible and the water is still. Many visitors combine a trip to Gornergrat with a stop at Riffelsee, either on their way up or down. While the walk from Rotenboden station to Riffelsee is relatively short (about 5-10 minutes), it's important to be prepared for alpine conditions. The path can be steep in places, and the weather can change rapidly.
Hiking and Activities from Gornergrat
These hikes allow you to immerse yourself in the alpine landscape, passing by smaller lakes, rocky terrains, and vibrant flora (especially in summer and autumn).
The trails are generally well-marked, but it's always advisable to carry a map or use a navigation app. Beyond hiking, Gornergrat offers opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture the dramatic scenery. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy playground, with possibilities for snowshoeing and enjoying the winter wonderland.
The Gornergrat Railway itself is an attraction, and many visitors enjoy simply taking in the panoramic views from the various observation decks. 
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