Episode 178: Planning your Excursion from Zermatt to Gornergrat: Tickets, Activities and Where to Get the Best Matterhorn Views
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Are you dreaming of seeing the Matterhorn up close, riding one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain railways, or discovering breathtaking views without the crowds? Then this episode is for you!
Join me as I chat with Gabi Aberle, Head of Overseas Markets at Matterhorn Gotthard Railway, for an insider’s guide to the classic Zermatt to Gornergrat cogwheel train journey.
We answer everything you need to know about the famous Gornergrat train, including tips for getting the best Matterhorn views and why Gornergrat deserves a place on every Switzerland itinerary.
We discuss why the Gornergrat railway station is the gateway to incredible alpine adventures – whether you’re hiking to the famous Riffelsee for that perfect reflective Matterhorn photo, admiring the Gorner Glacier, or visiting the Gornergrat Observatory.
Plus, Gabi tells us about the Gornergrat Golden Spot, the ideal spot for an Instagram-worthy photo, and you’ll hear about the immersive ZOOOM the Matterhorn experience.
Not sure when to plan your excursion? We discuss the best time to go up Gornergrat, and share practical advice for maximizing your visit. Find out how your Swiss Travel Pass saves you money on this mountain highlight, and whether or not you should buy your Gornergrat tickets in advance.
Tune in for essential details including how to get to Gornergrat from Zermatt, must-know tips for hopping off along the route, where to eat with unbeatable views, and how to make your Gornergrat trip truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re staying overnight at the Gornergrat hotel or just visiting for the day, we cover it all to ensure your visit to Zermatt and Gornergrat will be the highlight of your Swiss travels.
Show Notes
In this episode you’ll learn about:
- What makes the Gornergrat Railway one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain excursions
- Why Gornergrat offers the best and most iconic views of the Matterhorn
- The best times of year to visit Gornergrat for breathtaking scenery
- How to plan your visit, including ticketing tips, pre-boarding options, and Swiss Travel Pass discounts
- Lesser-known viewpoints and hidden gems along the route
- Activities and unique experiences you can enjoy at the summit, from hiking to special dining events
Our Guest
Gabriele Aberle is Head of Overseas Markets for Matterhorn Gotthard Railway.
Her role includes promoting the Glacier Express and Gornergrat trains to international markets including North America, Australia and New Zealand.
Topics mentioned in this episode
>> Gornergrat – a mountain near Zermatt which can be reached by cogwheel train.
>> Riffelalp, Riffelberg and Rotenboden – stops on the railway line between Zermatt and Gornergrat.
>> Zooom the Matterhorn – an interactive exhibition which showcases the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine region in various dimensions.
>> Golden Spot photo point – a restored land gold-plated locomotive located in a prominent position at Gornergrat summit to allow for photos with the Matterhorn in the distance.
>> NostalChic Class train – on this historic train, up to 22 guests can enjoy a unique guided excursion to Gornergrat which includes a gourmet meal. Available every Wednesday and some Saturdays from late June to mid-September. It also operates every Wednesday from early January to early April. More info here.
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Useful resources
📖 For more information, read our detailed guides on how to visit Gornergrat, things to do in Zermatt, best hotels in Zermatt and best mountain excursions from Zermatt . There are further details in our Zermatt Travel Guide.
💻 Visit the Gornergrat website and Instagram page.
🎙️ Listen to more episodes about Zermatt:
- Episode 51: Magnificent Matterhorn excursions from Zermatt
- Episode 106: How to plan your perfect trip to Zermatt
- Episode 147: Five reasons to add the Five Lakes hike to your Swiss itinerary
- Episode 9: Visiting Zermatt
✅ Learn more about the Swiss Travel Pass and browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted partners.
👉 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit and Guide
> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.
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