Matterhorn Alpine Crossing
Europe's highest cable car link, connecting Zermatt (Switzerland) and Cervinia (Italy) with unparalleled Matterhorn views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Matterhorn Alpine Crossing
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's highest cable car link, connecting Zermatt (Switzerland) and Cervinia (Italy) with unparalleled Matterhorn views.
"The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing offers breathtaking views and a unique cross-border experience."
Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by booking your Matterhorn Alpine Crossing tickets in advance. :ticket:
Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes fast! Always check conditions before heading up for a better experience. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Matterhorn Alpine Crossing
Zermatt to Cervinia
The highest cable car link in Europe, offering breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and connecting Switzerland and Italy.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Top station
Europe's highest mountain station, featuring an observation platform, glacial palace, and ice sculptures.
Schwarzsee
Intermediate station
A scenic stop offering excellent photo opportunities with the Matterhorn as a backdrop.
Cervinia Village
Italian side
A charming village at the base of the Matterhorn, perfect for an overnight stay with stunning mountain vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Check the Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by booking your Matterhorn Alpine Crossing tickets in advance. :ticket:
Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes fast! Always check conditions before heading up for a better experience. :cloud:
Don't Rely on SBB Card in Italy
Users report issues with SBB cards in Italy; opt for physical tickets from Zermatt. :blue_heart:
Wear Layers
It's cold at the top! Dress in layers to stay comfortable at high altitudes. :shirt:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by booking your Matterhorn Alpine Crossing tickets in advance. :ticket:
Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes fast! Always check conditions before heading up for a better experience. :cloud:
Don't Rely on SBB Card in Italy
Users report issues with SBB cards in Italy; opt for physical tickets from Zermatt. :blue_heart:
Wear Layers
It's cold at the top! Dress in layers to stay comfortable at high altitudes. :shirt:
Allow Ample Time
A one-way journey can take 90 mins without stops. Plan for a full day if exploring. :clock:
Consider an Overnight Stay
Staying in Cervinia offers amazing morning views of the Matterhorn. :bed:
Be Prepared for Crowds
Expect crowds, especially on the Swiss side. Be patient and assertive in Italy. :bustsinsilhouette:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing offers breathtaking views and a unique cross-border experience, with many praising the spectacular scenery and the novelty of traveling between Switzerland and Italy. However, some visitors find the experience pricey and note that crowds, particularly on the Swiss side, can detract from the enjoyment. Issues with ticket systems in Italy have also been reported.
"📍 Matterhorn Alpine Crossing & Furi Cable Car Ride @Zermatt 🚠🇨🇭
Scenic Lift Access Toward Hiking Trails
While we didn’t take the full Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, we rode the gondola from Zermatt to Furi, a convenient and beautiful start for accessing hiking routes in the area. The ride was smooth and offered great views of the surrounding alpine scenery as we ascended.
From Furi, you can connect to several scenic trails or continue on to higher lift stations, depending on your hiking plans. We used it as a starting point for our adventure and appreciated the ease of access.
🎟️ Tips:
• Weather changes quickly—check the forecast before heading up.
• Even a short ride like Zermatt–Furi gives a nice preview of the mountains."
Quing_刘妈妈
"Amazing experience,weather permitting. Went all the way to Cirvina, which was nice, but unless you are skiing or it is at least peak season, there is not much to do."
mc vb
"From Switzerland you can travel to Italy on an amazing cable car journey and this has to be done in sections meaning switch cable cars..
It is a unique experience as you start in Zermatt and end in Cervinia in Italy where you can decide to return the same route or travel further. You can also start from Cervinia and travel to Zermatt through the same route.
It is recommended to purchase tickets online which can be added to SBB pass or you can pick up the tickets at one of the automated kiosks or the ticket counter in Zermatt.
We had a tough time not being able to use the SBB card in the Italian region and would advise you to pick up the tickets (blue tickets) as there is some issue with automated scanners/machines in Italy. One of the employees did inform us about this. We called the phone # listed on the reservation to assist us and the friendly help desk specialist refused to assist us and thanks to the friendly staff in Italy we were able to get on the cable cars with the staff opening the gates for us as a special permission. Again do not trust the SBB card, pick up your tickets in Zermatt.
Tourist crowds are going to be painful as many international tourists rush through and do not wait for others to get off. In Italy the cable cars are always crowded with skiers and forget waiting in line or overcrowded, you just have to get in. And they do make space for you and it's better than the unruly tourists on the Switzerland side.
The journey starts in Zermatt with the first switch in Furi. There are many hiking trails in Furi. The next stop or cable car switch is Schwarzee followed by Trockener Steg and Matterhorn Glacial Paradise. The tickets includes access to the Matterhorn viewing platform which is high up and freezing cold. The access is with a lift which gets crowded and little bit of wait. In addition the glacial palace has ice sculptures and a slide which is ok, not exciting. Most folks would stop and return to Zermatt but for the ones with the Alpine pass the journey continues to Testa Grigia which is a top skii region for skiers from Italy and is the border crossing. You can keep one foot in Italy one in Switzerland for a famous selfie moment.
The next switch/station is the Cime Bianchi Laghi followed by Plan Maison and then the beautiful village of Cervinia. The village is almost at the base of Matterhorn (view) and it's amazing to wake up and view the impressive mountain so close. We spent the night at Hotel Edelweiss which I highly recommend before starting our return the next day. The cable cars were packed with skiers but very friendly and we got to talk to a few who were on various adventurous activities including climbing Brierthorn or skiing in the high altitudes.
The return journey was quiet good as we were travelling in the opposite direction of the crowds in the Swiss side.
In total without any stops other than switching the cable cars one way journey can take 90 mins. It is possible to do return trip in one day if journey starts early morning to allow sufficient time for stops and some exploration.
Some things to keep in mind
(1)the round trip is pricey even with SBB discounts but worth trying once
(2) During off-season (May and part of June) stay in Cervinia is no fun as most places are closed
(3) Do not rely on SBB card, collect ticket at counter
(4) Watch out for tourists on the Swiss side and do not expect them to behave.
Go and have fun..
Other than the challenges we had a great time and the tickets are a bit pricey but considering the opportunity to get across the border and have the of Matterhorn a"
Pradeep Ponnuswamy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing via a series of cable cars starting from Zermatt. The journey involves multiple changes, with stops at Furi, Schwarzsee, Trockener Steg, and finally Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn). From there, you can continue to Italy.
Yes, the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing operates in both directions, allowing you to travel from Cervinia in Italy to Zermatt in Switzerland, or vice versa.
Absolutely! The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing is designed for pedestrians as well as skiers, offering a unique way to experience the Alps year-round. 
A one-way journey on the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, without significant stops, can take approximately 90 minutes. It's recommended to allocate a full day if you plan to make stops and explore.
Zermatt is a car-free village, so the best way to reach it is by train. It's accessible from major Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva, with scenic routes adding to the travel experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets online in advance, or at the ticket counters or automated kiosks in Zermatt. Some users recommend picking up physical tickets in Zermatt due to potential issues with SBB cards in Italy.
While the round trip can be pricey, SBB discounts may be available. It's advisable to check for any applicable passes or discounts when booking.
While SBB passes might offer discounts, users have reported issues with their functionality in the Italian region. It's recommended to collect physical tickets in Zermatt to avoid potential problems.
Tickets typically include access to the Matterhorn viewing platform at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the glacial palace with ice sculptures, and the option to travel between Zermatt and Cervinia.
The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing aims to be accessible year-round, connecting Zermatt and Cervinia. However, it's always best to check the official operating schedule for any maintenance or seasonal closures.
🎫 🏔️ Onsite Experience
At Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you can visit the observation platform for panoramic views, explore the unique glacial palace with ice sculptures, and even enjoy an ice slide.
Yes, stations like Furi offer access to various scenic hiking trails, providing opportunities to explore the alpine landscape.
The views are spectacular throughout the journey, with breathtaking panoramas of the Matterhorn and surrounding Alps. You can get great pictures at stops like Schwarzsee.
Yes, it is freezing cold at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise observation platform, even in summer. Dressing in warm layers is essential.
Yes, the border crossing point at Testa Grigia allows for a famous selfie moment with one foot in Switzerland and the other in Italy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are dining options available in Zermatt and Cervinia, as well as some mountain restaurants at various stations. It's advisable to check availability and opening hours, especially during off-seasons.
Both Zermatt and Cervinia offer a range of culinary experiences, from traditional Swiss fondue and raclette to Italian specialties. Many restaurants boast Matterhorn views.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally expected to purchase food and beverages from the establishments. However, carrying water and snacks for hikes is common.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic photo spots include the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing itself, Schwarzsee, and viewpoints from both Zermatt and Cervinia. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise also offers stunning panoramic shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photographing the Matterhorn, with softer shadows and golden hues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain landscapes, while a telephoto lens can help zoom in on the Matterhorn's details. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and sensitive alpine areas. It's crucial to check local regulations in Zermatt and Cervinia before flying a drone.
Capture the journey by taking photos from the cable car windows, at the various stations, and during any hikes. Time-lapses of the changing scenery can also be very effective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Dress everyone in warm layers, as it's very cold at the top. Consider breaking up the journey with stops at stations like Furi, which has hiking trails suitable for shorter legs. While the full crossing can be long, even a partial ride offers a memorable experience. Be prepared for crowds and ensure you have snacks and drinks, as purchasing them at higher altitudes can be expensive.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grand scale of the Alps and a telephoto lens for detailed shots of the Matterhorn. Consider a tripod for stable shots, especially in varying light conditions. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan to use one.
⛷️ Skiers and Snowboarders
Skiing tips: Ensure you have the appropriate ski pass that covers both Zermatt and Cervinia. Be aware that cable cars can get very crowded with skiers, especially during peak season. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise itself is a high-altitude ski area, offering challenging runs and incredible snow conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing Experience
Travelers often describe the experience as spectacular and unforgettable. The journey from Zermatt to Cervinia (or vice versa) takes about 90 minutes without stops, but most visitors allocate a full day to fully appreciate the vistas and explore the various points of interest. The cable cars themselves offer panoramic windows, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the majestic landscape.
It's important to note that while the crossing is accessible to pedestrians, it can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Users advise being prepared for crowds on the Swiss side and suggest picking up physical tickets in Zermatt to avoid potential issues with automated scanners in Italy. Despite these minor challenges, the sheer beauty and unique nature of the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing make it a must-do for many visiting the region.
Exploring Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Beyond the stunning views, the station houses a unique Glacier Palace. This underground wonderland is carved directly into the ice, featuring shimmering ice sculptures and a thrilling ice slide. It's a surreal and cool escape from the mountain air. Access to the Glacier Palace is via a lift, which can sometimes have a wait, especially when it's busy.
Visitors should be prepared for the extreme cold at this altitude, even in summer. Dressing in warm, layered clothing is essential. The thin air can also affect some individuals, so taking it easy upon arrival is advisable. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is a highlight for many, offering a tangible sense of being on top of the world.
Zermatt and Cervinia: A Tale of Two Villages
On the Italian side, Cervinia (Breuil-Cervinia) offers a different vibe. Situated at the foot of the Matterhorn, it provides a more expansive and open feel, with a strong focus on skiing and a lively atmosphere. Many visitors recommend spending a night in Cervinia to wake up to incredible morning views of the Matterhorn and enjoy the Italian hospitality.
Traveling between these two villages via the Alpine Crossing allows you to experience the unique character of both the Swiss and Italian Alps. The contrast in culture, architecture, and even the way the Matterhorn is perceived from each side adds a rich layer to the overall journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit