Dimitri Burkhard
I still remember the first time I stepped onto the open upper deck of the CabriO cable car. The cabin lurched gently away from the station, the ground dropped away beneath my feet, and suddenly there was nothing between me and the Swiss Alps but fresh mountain air.
Wind in my hair, sun on my face, and a panorama so wide I didn't know where to look first. That moment sold me on the Stanserhorn - and I've been back multiple times since.
Perched at 1,898 meters above sea level in Central Switzerland, the Stanserhorn is home to the CabriO, the world's first and only cable car with an open-air upper deck. It's one of those rare Swiss experiences that genuinely surprises people, even those of us who've lived here for years and think we've seen every mountain trick in the book.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit: ticket prices, schedules, how to get there, what to do at the top, and all the insider tips I've picked up over multiple trips.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit: ticket prices, schedules, how to get there, what to do at the top, and all the insider tips I've picked up over multiple trips.
Quick Tip: The Stanserhorn CabriO only operates from mid-April to mid-November. Check current prices and book tickets on the official Stanserhorn website →
What Makes the Trip to Stanserhorn So Special?
The World's First Open-Top Cable Car
For one, it's that unique cable car. I've ridden dozens of cable cars in Switzerland, but the Stanserhorn CabriO remains the one I tell friends about first.
Launched in 2012, the CabriO is a double-decker aerial cable car. The lower deck is enclosed like any normal cabin, but the upper deck is completely open to the elements.
On the upper deck, which is reachable by a flight of stairs, there is literally no roof and no windows, just a railing that protects you from tumbling off. Up to 60 passengers can stand on top, but I've never seen more than two dozen. The ride from the middle station at Kälti (1,220 m) to the summit takes about six minutes.
What makes it so special is that rush you get from being out in the open air. You glide just above a meadow for the first stretch, and then the ground suddenly drops away and you're hanging high above the valley floor...
The wind picks up, the views explode in every direction, and you pass between the massive support masts close enough to feel the scale of the engineering. There are no cables overhead blocking your view, just open sky!
The first time I rode the upper deck, I made the mistake of wearing a baseball cap. It nearly flew off somewhere over Nidwalden! Lesson learned... But I also couldn't stop grinning the entire way up!
Pro tip: If you want the open-top experience on the Stanserhorn CabriO, head straight for the stairs to the upper deck when boarding. On busy days, it fills up first. And if you're on the shorter side, try to find a spot near the railing early. (There are only standing places up top.)
The Historic Stanserhorn Funicular
The adventure actually begins before the CabriO. At the valley station in Stans, you board a beautifully restored vintage funicular dating back to 1893. The open wooden coaches rumble and bump their way up through forests and meadows, exactly as they did over 130 years ago
I also adore this part of the journey. There's something wonderfully Swiss about starting your trip in a wooden carriage from the 19th century and finishing it on a futuristic open-air cable car.
The contrast is part of the charm. And it makes the whole experience feel like a journey through time as much as a journey up a mountain.The funicular takes about 10 minutes to reach the middle station at Kälti, where you transfer to the CabriO for the final ascent.
Stanserhorn Cable Car Prices & Tickets 2026
Adult & Child Pricing
Here are the standard return (round-trip) ticket prices for the Stanserhorn cable car in 2026. Please note that prices are approximate and may vary. Always check the official Stanserhorn website for the most current pricing.
| Ticket Type | Return (Round Trip) | One Way |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | CHF 82 | CHF 41 |
| Child (6–15 years) | CHF 20.50 | CHF 10.30 |
| Children under 6 | Free | Free |
Swiss Travel Pass & Discount Cards
This is where it gets interesting for budget-savvy travelers:
| Discount Card | Discount |
|---|---|
| Swiss Travel Pass | 50% off (always verify for the current year) |
| Half-Fare Card (Halbtax) | 50% off |
| Swiss Family Card | Children under 16 travel free with a parent |
| GA Travelcard | Free |
Hack: If you're spending more than a few days in Switzerland and plan to visit multiple mountains, the Half-Fare Card (CHF 150 for one month) almost always pays for itself. It works for 50% discounts on the Stanserhorn, Pilatus, Rigi, Jungfraujoch, and nearly every other mountain transport in the country. I consider it the single best investment for any Switzerland trip.
How to Buy Tickets for Stanserhorn
- Online: Purchase on stanserhorn.ch
- At the valley station: Ticket counter in Stans (cash and cards accepted)
- SBB app: Look for combined rail + cable car tickets through the SBB Mobile app
Stanserhorn Cable Car Schedule & Opening Hours
Season 2026 Schedule
The Stanserhorn CabriO typically operates from mid-April to mid-November. Exact opening and closing dates vary each year depending on weather and maintenance.
The 2026 season opens on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
Daily Timetable
| Direction | First Departure | Last Departure |
|---|---|---|
| Valley → Summit | 8:15 AM | 4:45 PM (approx.) |
| Summit → Valley | 8:45 AM | 5:30 PM (approx.) |
Cable cars depart approximately every 30 minutes during peak season.
Last Cable Car Down (Don't Miss It!)
This is critical: The last cable car down from the summit is typically around 5:00 to 5:30 PM. If you miss it, you're stuck at the top. And trust me, it's a very long walk down... I always set a phone alarm for 30 minutes before the last departure. Check the posted schedule at the summit station when you arrive.
How to Get to Stanserhorn
One of the things I appreciate most about the Stanserhorn is how easy it is to reach. It's a bit off the main tourist route, which keeps the crowds down, but the connections with public transport are excellent.
From Lucerne
- Lucerne → Stans by train: ~20 minutes (direct trains on the Zentralbahn line)
- Stans station → Valley station: 10-minute walk or short bus ride (Bus 311)
- Valley station → Summit: Funicular + CabriO cable car (~25 minutes total)
Total travel time from Lucerne to the summit: approximately 1 hour.
From Zurich
- Zurich HB → Lucerne by train: ~45 minutes (direct IC trains)
- Then, follow the Lucerne route above
Total travel time from Zurich to the summit: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
By Car
- Parking is available at the valley station in Stans
- Address for your GPS: Stanserhorn-Bahn, Stanserhornstrasse, 6370 Stans
- Parking is limited on busy summer weekends, so arrive early (or take the train)
- From Lucerne, the drive to Stans takes about 20 minutes via the A2 freeway
By Boat
For a scenic approach, take a Lake Lucerne boat from Lucerne to Stansstad, then a short bus or train connection to Stans. This adds time but the lake cruise is really nice. I did this once on a September afternoon and the combination of the lake, the funicular, and the CabriO made for one of my favorite days in Switzerland...
What to Do at the Top of Stanserhorn
Don't just ride up and ride back down. On my first visit I made that mistake: I only planned for 20 minutes at the top, which was way too short. After snapping a few photos, I already had to head back. I've since learned there's easily 2 to 4 hours of things to enjoy up here.
The Panoramic Terrace & Those Views
Let's start with the obvious: the views are staggering. From the summit terrace you can see Lake Lucerne, the Bernese Alps (including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau), and no less than 10 Swiss lakes.
On exceptionally clear days, you can even see as far as the Black Forest in Germany and the Vosges in France. Including Switzerland, that's three countries from one terrace!
I've stood up there on a cloudless October morning and counted mountain peaks until I lost track. The 100-kilometer alpine chain stretching across the horizon never gets old.
And here's a tip I picked up from a local: don't skip a cloudy day too quickly.
Especially in autumn, it may be foggy in the valley but brilliantly sunny above the clouds at the summit. Check the Stanserhorn webcam before you go. Rising above a sea of clouds is one of the most magical experiences you can have here...
The Marmot Colony
One of the funnest surprises on the Stanserhorn is the colony of Alpine marmots living near the summit. Yes, there are live, chubby, curious yet semi-wild marmots all over the summit.
You can often spot them sunbathing on rocks, or hear their distinctive warning whistles echoing across the meadow.
Mamiko and I once spent nearly an hour just sitting quietly near the marmot area, watching them pop in and out of their burrows. (It was oddly meditative.)
The best time to see marmots? Morning and late afternoon, especially on warm sunny days. They hibernate from October to April, so visit in summer for the best chances.
Talk to the Stanserhorn Rangers
Something most visitors walk right past: the Stanserhorn rangers who are often stationed near the summit and are happy to chat. (In English, too!)
On one visit, a ranger pointed out a golden eagle circling above the ridge that I would have completely missed. They know the mountain intimately and can tell you about the local wildlife, geology, and weather patterns. Don't be shy and say grüezi :-)
Alpine Garden & Nature Trail
A short, easy nature trail loops around the summit area, with information boards about local flora, fauna, and geology. It's flat and accessible, making it a no-brainer for families and anyone who wants fresh air without a strenuous hike.
The Stanserhorn happens to be a recognized nature reserve with a healthy fauna and flora.
Hiking from the Summit
For those of you who want to stretch their muscles, there are several hiking trails departing from the Stanserhorn summit:
- Stanserhorn Summit Loop is a gentle walk around the peak with sweeping views guaranteed (about 45 minutes).
- Stanserhorn to Wirzweli is a moderate hike that descends through alpine meadows to the charming village of Wirzweli (3 hours).
- Tell Trail: Stanserhorn to Engelberg is the most challenging of all, an epic point-to-point hike through stunning, remote scenery. It takes about six hours and is one of Christian's favorite day hikes in Central Switzerland. Read his complete Tell Trail hiking guide
Paragliding
On calm days, you may see paragliders launching from near the summit. Some operators offer tandem flights, too. We've tried paragliding in Ticino and Interlaken, and it was definitely a bucket list experience. Google "paragliding Stanserhorn" to find out more about availability and pricing if you're adventurous.
Special Events
The Stanserhorn occasionally hosts events that are worth planning around:
- Sunrise rides with early morning departures that arrive at the summit before dawn
- Full moon rides in summer
- Brunch on the mountain packages
- Live music events on the terrace
A sunrise ride is still on my personal bucket list... I need to plan this with a stay in Stans someday. Check the official Stanserhorn events page for the current calendar.
Where to Eat on the Stanserhorn
Rondorama Revolving Restaurant (Summit)
The highlight is the Rondorama, a revolving restaurant at the summit station. Get this: The floor slowly rotates, so your view changes throughout your meal!
The menu includes Swiss staples such as Rösti, Älplermagronen (served in a traditional edelweiss pot, which is a nice touch), sausages, and seasonal specials.
I'll be honest: the first time I ate here, I was so distracted by the rotating panorama that my food went cold! Mamiko ordered the Älplermagronen, a hearty and comforting classic that tastes exactly the way mountain food should.
- Price range: CHF 18 to 35 for main courses
- Reservation: Not usually required, but recommended for large groups
Self-Service Restaurant (Summit)
If you prefer something quicker and more budget-friendly, the self-service restaurant at the summit offers sandwiches, soups, pastries, and drinks at lower prices.
Kälti Middle Station
The middle station at Kälti also has a small café where you can grab a coffee or snack while waiting for the CabriO transfer.
Pack a Picnic
There are plenty of benches and grassy areas around the summit perfect for a picnic. Grab supplies at a Coop or Migros in Stans before you head up.
This is the most budget-friendly option to enjoy one of the (arguably) most scenic lunch spot in Central Switzerland. On a warm summer day, spreading out a blanket on the grass near the summit with a view of ten lakes below you is hard to beat. Plus, you might spot some marmots!
Insider Tips, Hacks & Tricks for Visiting Stanserhorn
These are the things I wish someone had told me before my first visit - and the tricks I've picked up over multiple trips since.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. For instance, I've had the upper deck nearly to myself on a Tuesday morning.
- Early morning (first cable car up) gives you the clearest views. Clouds and haze tend to build in the afternoon.
- June to September offers the best weather, wildflowers, and marmot sightings.
- Avoid Swiss school holidays if you dislike crowds (mid-July to mid-August).
- September to October is underrated. The light turns golden, the air is crisp, and you might rise above a sea of valley fog into pure sunshine.
Money-Saving Hacks
- Half-Fare Card: Buy one if you're visiting 2+ Swiss mountains. The CHF 150 price per month pays for itself after one or two excursions.
- Swiss Family Card: Free for families; kids under 16 ride free with a parent.
- Pack a picnic instead of eating at the summit restaurant to save CHF 30+ per person.
- Check for combo deals on the SBB app or Stanserhorn website (sometimes rail + cable car bundles are discounted).
- Buy a one-way ticket if you plan to hike down via the Tell Trail to Engelberg. This saves roughly 30% compared to a return ticket.
Best Photography Spots
- Upper deck of the CabriO: Shoot facing backward for dramatic cable car and mountain shots. The moment you pass between the support masts is particularly striking.
- Panoramic terrace: Best for wide-angle landscape shots, especially at golden hour.
- Marmot area: Bring a zoom lens (70 to 200 mm) for wildlife shots.
- Funicular: The vintage wooden interior makes for great retro-style photos. I also like to stand outdoors in the front to capture the other funicular as they pass.
- Breaking through the clouds: If you visit on a day with valley fog, the moment the cable car punches through into sunshine is pure magic.
Weather Tips & What to Wear
- Keep in mind that the summit is roughly 10 to 15 degrees Celsius cooler than Lucerne, so bring a jacket even in summer.
- Wind on the open deck can be strong. Secure your hat, scarf, and loose items (Remember, I speak from experience...)
- Check the Stanserhorn webcam on the official website before you go. If the summit is in the clouds, I would consider postponing the trip. But if the valley is cloudy and the summit is clear, definitely go.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential as UV is stronger at this altitude.
Visiting with Kids
Stanserhorn is very family-friendly. On one visit I watched a group of kids completely lose their minds over the marmots. They spent a solid hour crouched by the rocks, whispering and pointing every time one popped up.
- The open-top cable car ride is exciting (but hold onto little ones - and their hats!)
- The nature trail is flat and easy for small legs
- The revolving restaurant is a fun novelty for kids (and adult kids)
- Children under 6 ride free; under 16 they're free with a Swiss Family Card
Accessibility
- The funicular and lower deck of the CabriO are wheelchair accessible.
- The summit terrace and restaurants are accessible, too.
- Hiking trails are generally not suitable for wheelchairs. But it seems like a stretch of the summit walk may be accessible. It's best to check with Stanserhorn beforehand.
Stanserhorn vs. Pilatus vs. Rigi:
Which Swiss Mountain Should You Visit?
We get this question a lot. Central Switzerland has three iconic mountains near Lucerne, and each one offers something genuinely different. Here's how they compare:
| Feature | Stanserhorn | Mt. Pilatus | Mt. Rigi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elevation | 1,898 m | 2,128 m | 1,798 m |
| Unique Experience | World's first open-top cable car | World's steepest cogwheel railway | "Queen of the Mountains" |
| Return Ticket | ~CHF 78 | ~CHF 76 | ~CHF 70 |
| Half-Fare / GA | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Travel from Lucerne | ~1 hour | ~1.5 hours (Golden Round Trip) | ~1 hour |
| Crowd Level | Low - Medium | High | Medium |
| Best For | Unique cable car, marmots, fewer crowds | Dramatic views, Dragon Path, thrill seekers | Sunrise, spa, relaxation |
| Open Season | Apr - Nov | Year-round (cable car); May - Nov (cogwheel) | Year-round |
My honest take: If you only have time for one mountain near Lucerne, the Stanserhorn gives you the most unique experience. The CabriO exists nowhere else in the world, the crowds are a fraction of what you'll find on Pilatus, and the combination of the vintage funicular and the open-air cable car is something you simply can't replicate elsewhere.
Pilatus has more dramatic terrain, and Rigi is better for sunrise stays. But for a day trip that feels genuinely special, the Stanserhorn wins IMO.
But if you have multiple days, visit all three. And if you have even more time in Central Switzerland, add the epic full-day Tell Trail hike from Stanserhorn to Engelberg.
Frequently Asked Questions
So, is the Stanserhorn worth it?
You be the judge, but I'll say "absolutely!" If this blog post has not convinced you enough, let me tell you that whenever I bring visiting friends and family here, every single person has called it a highlight of their Switzerland trip.
The CabriO is a one-of-a-kind experience. And combined with the historic funicular, the marmots, the revolving restaurant, and the panoramic views of 10 Swiss lakes, it's one of Central Switzerland's best day trips.
As you can tell, the Stanserhorn holds a special place in my personal list of Swiss mountain experiences. It doesn't have the fame of the Jungfraujoch or the Instagram presence of the Matterhorn, and honestly, that's part of what I love about it.
The cable car only operates from April to November, so don't wait too long to plan your visit...
Brenna Goth
