The Gornergrat train in Zermatt is without a doubt one of Switzerland’s most scenic train journeys. 33 minutes of pure bliss and for photographers, influencers and anybody that loves beautiful landscapes, a ride on the Gornergrat railway is a must.
We have put together the most important things to know when riding the Gornergrat train in Zermatt. Furthermore, you will find out what there is to do at the Gornergrat summit station and where you can go off the train.
There are many things to do in Zermatt, but for sure, riding the Gornergrat Railway to the Gornergrat is a must when visiting Zermatt.
At the end of this blog, we will have tried to answer as many questions you may have regarding a visit with the Gornergrat railway to the Gornergrat. If you don’t have time now to read the whole article about the Gornergrat train, then jump straight to the Q&A.
Where to stay in Zermatt
As Zermatt is a destination that needs to be explored we suggest you stay at least one night. Below you will find some of our favourite Hotels in Zermatt:
Luxury pick
Luxury family stay
Perfect Allrounder
What makes the Gornergrat Train so special?
The Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt is one of those train journeys in Switzerland you will remember forever.
Not only is the whole stretch super pretty it is also famous for several reasons.
One of the reasons, and probably the most important one is because it is electrified, which makes it eco-friendly.
Another great reason is the fact that the Gornergrat railway is the highest open-air cog railway in Europe.
In 33 minutes the train climbs 1469 metres over a distance of 9.4 kilometres, which we can all agree, is impressive.
A further reason why the Gornergrat train ride is so special, and probably the most important reason for tourism is because it is so scenic.
During the journey you will pass part of Zermatt village with great views of the Matterhorn, along the Matter Vispa River.
Followed by rocky landscapes, greenery and forests whilst the train is gaining altitude. Along most of the way, the mighty Matterhorn can be seen.
This makes the Gornergrat train ride such a special and a unique experience.
For 120 years tourists and locals have been visiting the Gornergrat and riding the Gornergrat train.
Get your Gornergrat train ticket
If you do not want to stand in a queue, get your Gornergrat train ticket online.
- A standard Gornergrat ticket cost Chf 88.- / Chf 44.- with Swiss travel pass and 1/2 tax card
- Sledging ticket (winter only) Zermatt-Rotenboden-Zermatt Chf 78.- / Chf 58.- with Swiss travel pass and 1/2 tax card
- SnowFunPass – Sledging and Gornergrat Chf 98.- / Chf 68.- with Swiss travel pass and 1/2 tax card
- If you visit during the Ski season, then your normal Ski Pass Winter included the Gornergrat and is Chf 88.-
If you are planning on hiking in Zermatt at the Gornergrat you may not need a full ticket. For example you can just get a one way journey all the way up to the summit, and then hike to Riffelsee and maybe even further to Riffelalp. This way you can save quite a bit especially if you have SBB half-fare cards.
Each train station along the Gornergrat railway has a ticket office/ machine.
In all cases, children under 9 with a Wolli Card and those with a Junior card travel free. 50% discount for SBB Half Fare Card, Swiss Travel Pass, GA and children aged 9 to 15 without Junior cards.
On the Gornergrat Railway route
You will be boarding the train right in the heart of Zermatt Village opposite the main train station and tourist office.
Make sure you get a right-hand seat and in a wagon where you can open the window.
This will allow you to make some amazing photographs of the Matterhorn with part of the Gornergrat train in the photo.
1st stop: Findelbach 1770m
The first stop at Findelbach is not one you want to get out yet. It is the start for some hiking trails in Zermatt and in the winter, people hike from here to go ice climbing.
If you like you could always exit the train here on your way back down to Zermatt and walk back to the village.
2nd Stop: Riffelalp 2222m
The second station on the Gornergrat railway is Riffelalp Station. If you have booked your room at the famous Riffelalp Resort 2222m, then this would be your exit station.
The area offers also some restaurants and many hiking trails start or finish here.
3rd Stop: Riffelberg 2582m
Riffelberg is one of the busier stations along the route.
During summer, hikers who have descended from the Gornergrat will be waiting for their train here to go back down to Zermatt. Or vice-versa; you could exit the Gornergrat train here and hike up to Riffelsee and Gornergrat.
If you are skiing in Zermatt then this is a popular train station where you can hop back on the Gornergrat train to go back up to the summit for another run.
Equally popular with families because there is a beginner’s ski area, installed by the ski school.
If you spend some winter days in Zermatt and have non-skiers in the family, the fantastic winter hike from Riffelsee finishes here as well.
Oh, and it is here where you have another fantastic view of the Matterhorn.
4th Stop: Rotenboden 2815m
Arriving at the famous Rotenboden station a very popular stop for photographers.
Why is this? It is because Riffelsee is only a short 10 minutes’ walk away and it is from there where one can get a great reflection on the lake from the Matterhorn during the summer months.
It is also a great sunrise spot, although not to be mixed up with Stellisee and its famous Matterhorn reflection photo.
If hiking is on your agenda, then this would be a great station to get out and walk either up to the Gornergrat (2km), or down to Riffelberg (2.8km)
5th Stop: Gornergrat 3089m
And here we are, after an amazing 33 minutes train ride you have now ridden the highest open-air cog railway in Europe. This is the final station and it is time to go and explore the Gornergrat and marvel at the 360° panoramic views.
Twenty-nine 4,000-metre peaks including the Monte Rosa massif and its Dufourspitze (4634 m), which is the highest peak in Switzerland are all standing in front of you.
But not only can you spot many mountain peaks, in addition you see many glaciers including the Gornerglacier as well.
What to do at the Gornergrat?
Apart from just simply being amazed by these incredible Swiss mountain views all around you, there are quite a few things to do at the Gornergrat.
You’ll find the 3100 Kulmhotel, a self-service and serviced restaurant, a viewing platform and plenty of space to walk around and enjoy the scenery here.
Visit the NEW Multi-media Zooom
A unique multi-media experience dedicated to the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine world!
Visitors can experience three stages; first zoom the Matterhorn. Get closer to the ‘Horu’ (the locals’ name for the Matterhorn) with the periscopes.
The second stage is the immersive 3D cinema. With breathtaking photography and videos you have the sensation you are actually hiking the top path of the Matterhorn.
And last but not least the third station lets you fly with your “own” paraglider over the Matterhorn. An absolutely incredible feeling and experience. For tickets check their website.
Circular Glacier walk
From the viewing terrace up at Gornergrat you can start a short 20minutes circular glacier walk. The trail will bring you closer to the Gornerglacier viewpoint.
Often it is also quieter on the path so you can click away some great photographs of the surrounding glaciers in Zermatt.
Hiking trail from the Gornergrat
There is no surprise that many beautiful hiking trails in Zermatt start from the Gornergrat.
Hike to Riffelsee
A popular and not too long hike is the downhill path to Rotenboden – Riffelsee.
Steep in some sections but as you will be hiking in constant sight of the Matterhorn, this is definitely a pretty hike to do.
Theme trail “Meet the sheep”
If this visit to the Gornergrat is during the summer months then you are in luck. Participate on the cutest theme trail where you will learn some interesting and fun facts about the famous Blacknose sheep of Zermatt.
Meet the sheep themed trail starts at the Gornergrat to Riffelberg. Follow the QR code signs and try to solve some questions.
Watch our Meet the Sheep YouTube video about our experience, and read how to Meet the sheep at Gornergrat. #bucketlistzermatt
Gornergrat Railway facts
Because this is such a fascinating train and it evolves a lot of history, we sought some facts about the technical side of the Gornergrat railway.
These numbers may not mean a lot for most of us, but I am sure if you are a train enthusiast or even a train spotter these numbers are impressive.
- Track Gauge – Meter
- Length – 9.339 km
- Number of Bridges – 2
- Number of Tunnels – 5 (longest 179m)
- Rolling Stock – 12 twin railcars, 4 single railcars, 2 rotary snow ploughs, 4 freight wagons
- Speed – 30km/h
- Number of passengers per hour – 1200
- Number of Stops – 5
Question & Answers about the Gornergrat Train in Zermatt
Can I use a Swiss Travel Pass to Gornergrat?
As the Gornergrat is a private organisation the Swiss Travel Pass is not accepted for the Gornergrat railway. However, holders of a Swiss Travel Pass, and other travel passes will receive a 50% discount on the normal ticket price. If you visit Zermatt during winter and go skiing, the ski ticket will include the Gornergrat railway.
Is Zermatt included in SwissPass?
Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Zermatt? Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass covers the journey to Zermatt Village. But not the lift systems and the Gornergrat.
Any visits to the Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise are granted with a 50% discount with a Swiss Travel Pass.
Children up to 9 years old will enjoy all transportation in Zermatt free of charge with the Wolli card.
Where do I catch the Gornergrat train?
The Gornergrat train station is opposite the Zermatt train station and tourism office.
Is the Gornergrat Bahn worth it?
Visiting Gornergrat should be on any Swiss travel Itinerary.
Therefore, yes, it’s worth it. To get the most out of your visit, ensure the weather is great and spend at least half a day at the Gornergrat.
How long is the Gornergrat train ride?
The beautiful ride takes 33 minutes and climbs a vertical distance of 1469 meters.
Which side to sit on the Gornergrat train for the best view?
Sit on the right-hand side for the best views of the Matterhorn. And if possible, by a window that you can open up for great photography.
Does a Zermatt ski pass include the Gornergrat train?
When skiing in Zermatt with the general ski pass you get unlimited use of all Zermatt Bergbahnen AG lifts and the Gornergrat railway.
You also have the option to upgrade to the international ticket and add skiing in Italy. (Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche (IT))
Can you see the Matterhorn from Gornergrat?
The Gornergrat is one of the best places to see the Matterhorn. Together with Sunnegga the mighty Toblerone mountain is right in front of you. A clear view of the Matterhorn, as well the impressive Gornerglacier and over 29 other 4000 metre peaks.
How much time do I need at the Gornergrat?
The train ride on Europe’s highest open-air cog railway will last 33 minutes. Spend at least one hour at the top, which gives you a two hours window.
Your Guide to Zermatt
- Best things to do in Zermatt
- Meet the Sheep at the Gornergrat
- Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – An Epic Family Experience
- Zermatt – A Family Day trip to Zermatt
- Best Hotels in Zermatt
I hope that the information provided here will prove useful when you are planning to ride the Gornergrat Train in Zermatt
If I have left anything out or you have a question, please ask your questions in the comments below so that other readers can join in the conversation and benefit from your queries also.
19 thoughts on “The Gornergrat Train – all you need to know when visiting”
Thank you for your wonderful information. We are planning to go visit Zermatt and take the train in late June this year. Two questions: 1) what do you think is the best time of the day to take the train up? 2) for my dad who has some health concerns, can he ride the train up, and without getting off the train, just ride the train back to Zermatt? Does everyone need to get off at the top regardless? Does the train turn back straight away? Thank you!
Hi Elin
Thanks for your nice comment on our post.
Any time is great to ride the train. If you are a photographer maybe better early before midday, or for the golden hours after 6.30 pm. Not sure in June when this would be.
YOu don’t have to get out of the train. It will stop at the top for a while before heading back down to Zermatt.
I hope you both will enjoy it.
have fun in Zermatt
Corina
Thank you for all of your great information! We will be visiting Zermatt at the end of June for 2 days.
Does the Gornergrat Railway ever sell out?
Hi Sally
Great choice to visit zermatt. I never heard of it selling out. You should be good. Enjoy the trip!
Thank you! We are SO excited!
Hi Cornia,
Thank you for this very helpful information and local insights! We are planning to stay at Riffelalp Resort for one night in mid August and had a few questions:
– I understand you can get off and on during the stops. Is there a time limit on when you need to resume your journey? For instance, would you know if I can ride the train from Zermatt to Riffelalp and the stay the night and resume the journey to Gornergrat the next day? Or would this count as two separate trips?
– We’re debating if we should visit Gornergrat on the day we arrive (afternoon) or early morning the next day. What time would you recommend for the best scenery in mid August?
– Separately, we are thinking about buying the 3 day Swiss pass but don’t think we would be able to take advantage of its full use as our itinerary is (fly in the night before) *Day 1* Geneva – Zermatt – *Day 2* Grindelwald – *Day 3*Lucerne – Zurich (fly out). For this itinerary, I think buying individual tickets may be more cost effective but would passengers be tied to the train times that they book for? In other words, is there a grace period for pre booked train tickets? Or would it be safer to purchase a Swiss Pass?
This is our first time in Switzerland and we are so excited! Thank you again for your post and would really appreciate your thoughts on the above. Thank you!!!
Dear Christine
You will love Zermatt. The Gornergrat Ticket is for one day.So staying ovrnight at Riffelberg would require a 2nd ticket.
I believe there is an all day ticket where you can ride the Gornergrat per day as many times as you wish or just a simple up and down.
You can get out as long as you wish but not overnight.
You don’t really need to prebook the train tickets. You can buy it on the day and spot. If ou get the Swiss travel pass you can just hop on any public transport at any time whiteout thinking of getting a ticket first.I think the Gornergrat is 50% with it, but you would have to check this.
you can use the boats in Lucerne as well.
To see if it is Wirth the money check on the SBB app your route and price it up.
You will enjoy Switzerland
hope this has helped
Corina
Hi , I will be visiting Switzerland in the mid of November 2023.
My question is.. If we get down at the mid stops , of Gornergrat train route, how much time can we stay at the mid stops , considering we have to catch the train for further journey!!
Hi Archana
If I understand your question right, you like to know if you get off Riffelberg how long to stay there before getting back on the train to go either up or down?
First make sure you do have a ticket that allows you the hop on and off activity.
After this is totally up to you. the trains are pretty frequently, you can get off the Gornergrat at Riffelberg, walk around and take the next train passing to carry on your journey.
Hope this helps
Have fun in Zermatt
Corina
Hi
We are planning to visit in the middle of june. Is the railway fully open at this time and can you do the sheep tour in the middle of June ?
HI Jo, nice to hear zermatt Is on your Swiss Travel plans. The Gornergrat is always open and running. What the sheep concerns, I don’t think in June they will already be up on the mountains. Best ask Zermatt Tourisem just before you go. It all depends really on the weather and snow conditions.Hope this helps
Take care Corina
Hello, I am glad I found your site. There is a lot of usefull information here.
We are going to Zermatt in mid-February 2024. We will only have one day there as we will be based in Basel for the duration of our visit. What kind of weather/temperatures can we expect?
Hi Jim
What a great trip ahead of you! Sorry but I am not the weather woman 😉. It all depends if it is windy, sunny rainy snowy you name it. Layer up is always the best. Especially if you are going up the Gornergrat! Enjoy Zermatt Take care Corina
When I read this
“For example you can just get a one way journey all the way up to the summit, and then hike to Riffelsee and maybe even further to Riffelalp. This way you can save quite a bit[…]”
I started searching for prices. On this website (https://www.gornergrat.ch/en/pages/prices-gornergrat-bahn) it’s possibile to see the list of prices. I don’t think it’s possible to buy individual tickets between stations online there. One full ticket ZermattGornergrat is CHF57 (with SwissTravelPass). But since I want to get off on Rotenboden and do the hike to Riffelberg, I then calculated Zermatt->Gornergrat (CHF28.50) + Gornergrat->Rotenboden (CHF9.50) + Riffelberg->Zermatt (CHF20) and the result is that it is more expensive (CHF58) than the full ticket. Is that correct?
If so, if I just buy the full ticket, can I get on and off or do I must stay on the train?
Dear Filipe
So, you did the research and you may be right that if you have the Swiss Travel pass, it is not cheaper. I was always in the belief it is. next time I am there I will ask as it is difficult to find the answer on their site. however to answer your question regarding going on and off the train, this is what they say:
May I get off and on again during my journey? “Yes. You may use your ticket to get off at every way station and then get on again later and continue your journey. However, each section may only be travelled once per direction.”
Hope this helps. So, your idea is totally possible. Kindest Corina
Hi Corina,
very good piece of information as I am building the itinerary for our October plan. Is it a good month to visit swiss and Zermatt? We will be able to see snow peaks and snow activities in mountains? Gornergrat plan will be useful during this month? please help
Dear Hasan
October will be great. You may already see the first snowfall on the mountains but also autumn colours will be nice.
Gornergrat runs every day all year round and it is easy to organise.
Just follow the steps on our blog post.
regards Corina
Hi Corina,
We will be in Zermatt Thursday Sept. 12 at noon and leave Sat AM. We plan on walking around Zermatt on Thursday after noon, Friday we want to go to Gornergratt and also the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. We want to hike from Gornergratt down to to Riffleberg. We then want to go over to the MGP. We will not have a 1/2 fare pass. Is the Peak the Peak the right pass to do, or buy them all seperately? Also do we buy them in advance before we arrive or will they we available when we get there. I don’t want them to be sold out or there to be bad weather and loose our money. Advice would be helpful, Thank you Kathy
Hi Kathy
Thanks for your message.
Buy the Peak Pass when you arrive in Zermatt and you are sure about the weather. The lifts don’t get sold out.
Riffelberg to Furi will already be closed when you visit so you will need to use the Gornergrat to go back down to Zermatt and then walk or take the free bus to the Matterhorn Express lift to go to the MGP.
Hope this helps.
Corina