Dimitri BurkhardJust a fraction of the Swiss mountains is accessible to people like you and me. Yet, thanks to no less than 129 gondolas and 251 cable cars in Switzerland, all of us can climb some spectacular peaks.
When it comes to reaching new heights, the Swiss are known the world over for their ingenious engineering. Since the opening of the first cable car in 1866, Swiss businesses such as CWA Constructions SA or Garaventa AG have installed cable cars near and far.
Here are some of the most stunning cable cars in Switzerland that will take you to new heights, sorted by altitude above sea level:
- Switzerland's Highest Cable Car to Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt (3821 m)
- Rotating Cable Car to Titlis in Engelberg (3238 m)
- 007 Cable Car to Schilthorn in the Bernese Alps (2970 m)
- Glacier Cable Car to Glacier 3000 (2965 m)
- Eiger Express Cable Car from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier (2320 m)
- Mythical Cable Car to Pilatus in Lucerne (2128 m)
- Double-Decker Cable Car to Stanserhorn (1898 m)
- World's Steepest Cable Car from Stechelberg to Mürren (1638 m)
- The Farmer Cable Cars in Engelberg
- Types of Cable Cars in Switzerland
- Family-Friendly Cable Cars in Switzerland
- How to Ride Cable Cars in Switzerland on a Budget
- Why Cable Cars Matter in Switzerland
- FAQ About Cable Cars in Switzerland
- Swiss Cable Cars In Comparison
Switzerland’s cable cars are legendary, offering effortless access to some of the most stunning high-alpine landscapes. From iconic Swiss peaks to lesser-known meadows, these engineering marvels should be on the bucket list of anyone seeking adventure, views, or family fun.
Switzerland's Highest Cable Car to Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt (3821 m)
The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car in Zermatt whisks you up to Europe’s highest cable car station at 3883 meters. The ride offers jaw-dropping views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding Alps, making it a bucket-list experience for mountain lovers.
Whenever I reach the immense altitude of the Klein Matterhorn, I feel the thinness of the air. Think about it: this is as close to climbing a 4K as you will ever get without actually climbing a 4K!
In one swift movement, the hyper-modern Matterhorn glacier paradise cable car will bring you from Trockener Steg to the summit at 3821 meters above the sea. The highest cable car in Switzerland features heated seats and panoramic views.
Although I have never tried them, there are four special cabins with see-through glass floors made of Swarovski crystals. You will see the glaciers below from a new perspective for an upgraded fare. And once you exit the station, you will be eye to eye with the mighty Matterhorn...
It is open all year, and Swiss Travel Pass holders enjoy a 50 percent discount. Here is one of many available webcams mounted at the peak.
Rotating Cable Car to Titlis in Engelberg (3238 m)
The Titlis Rotair is the world’s first revolving cable car, giving you a 360-degree panorama of glaciers and peaks as you ascend to 3020 meters. At the top, explore the glacier cave and enjoy snow activities year-round.
But no worries: In the Mount Titlis cable car, there is no need to rush for the best spot. The world's first revolving cable car allows everyone a perfect view. During the five-minute ride from Stand, the cabin of Titlis Rotair, with its iconic Swiss cross on the bottom, revolves 360 degrees.
Once you have soaked in the glacier views from the top of Titlis, several exciting activities are lined up. Those who have never seen snow or ice should definitely walk the glacier cave. On the other side, I dare the thrill-seekers among you to try the Titlis Cliff Walk. Imagine a 100-meter suspension bridge spanning across the void...
Except for a one-week maintenance period in November, the Titlis Rotair cable car operates year-round. Check out the various webcams and get 50 percent off with a Swiss Half-Fare Card or a Swiss Travel Pass.
007 Cable Car to Schilthorn in the Bernese Alps (2970 m)
Famous as a James Bond filming location, the Schilthorn cable car delivers you to the Piz Gloria restaurant and some of the best views in the Bernese Alps. The ride itself is a cinematic thrill.
Ever since its first international appearance in 1969, the Schilthorn in the Bernese Alps has gained more and more fame. It served as a filming location for James Bond’s On Her Majesty's Secret Service.
At the time, the film production partially financed the cable car and the revolving mountain station, which served as Blofeld's hideout. While Piz Gloria went up in flames at the movie's end, the Schilthorn mountain base has survived and thrived.
Today, there is a restaurant with a Bond-inspired menu, an interactive museum, a “Walk of Fame” dedicated to the secret agent, and fantastic views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Opened all year, Schilthorn offers fare reductions to holders of a Swiss Travel Pass. The trip to Mürren is fully covered, while the cable car to Schilthorn is 50 percent off. Preview the vistas on the webcam.
From Stechelberg in the valley, take the new cable car to Mürren. Then, transfer to the famous cable car featured in the James Bond movie.
Glacier Cable Car to Glacier 3000 (2965 m)
Glacier 3000’s cable car is your gateway to the only suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks. Enjoy snow sports, hiking, and the Peak Walk with sweeping views of the Alps.
It always astonishes me how accessible some of Switzerland’s peaks are to the public. Glacier 3000 is a good example as it is easily reachable with public transportation from all directions.
The easiest way to reach this glacier world is to take the postal bus from Gstaad or Les Diablerets to the cable car station at Col du Pillon. From there, the cable car ride to astonishing heights of nearly 3K will only take fifteen minutes. It is easy to forget that the 1400-meter difference in altitude comes with a temperature drop, so pack a jacket even during summer.
Apart from walking in the snow and seeing the majestic glaciers, highlights at the top include the Alpine Coaster Ride. The world's highest toboggan run operates between May and September. And I sure felt an adrenaline rush when crossing the Peak Walk by Tissot, the world’s first suspension footbridge between two peaks...
Have a sneak peek at the webcam, then enjoy 50 percent off the Glacier 3000 cable car with a Swiss Travel Pass. It is open all year round for day visitors.
Eiger Express Cable Car from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier (2320 m)
The Eiger Express is one of Switzerland’s newest and fastest cable cars, taking you from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier in just 15 minutes. Its modern cabins and close-up views of the Eiger’s north face are a highlight.
For good reason, a visit to Jungfraujoch is at the top of many bucket lists. Up until 2021, the peak was exclusively reachable by a cogwheel railway. Yet, thanks to the Eiger Express cable car link, the journey has been cut by a staggering 47 minutes.
From the brand-new terminal in Grindelwald, the trip to the Eiger Glacier station at 2320 meters above sea level takes a mere 15 minutes.
The Eiger Express is the world's most modern tricable (3S) lift system that combines all the benefits of a gondola cable car and an aerial tramway. Each of the 44 cabins holds 26 seats, and the engineers were tasked with leaving a minimal footprint in nature. As a result, the 6.5 km track requires only seven supporting towers.
Mythical Cable Car to Pilatus in Lucerne (2128 m)
Mount Pilatus, high above Lucerne, is one of my favorite peaks. I always recommend a day trip from Lucerne that combines a boat, a cogwheel railway, and two types of cable cars. The fairly new Dragon Ride cable car is the final link from Fräkmüntegg to the summit.
The cabin design reminds me of a cockpit. There are unobstructed views thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, and I highly recommend grabbing a seat in the front row. You will feel like a captain in an airplane as you glide up to the summit of the mythical dragon’s lair...
Mount Pilatus offers an instant and refreshing change of perspective. Just moments ago, you were at the bottom. But now, Central Switzerland below looks like a miniature railroad set. Once you grasp the sheer size of Lake Lucerne, it becomes apparent why Switzerland is the main water source for much of Europe.
Along the flower path, you will not only see the delicate alpine flora. I highly recommend booking an overnight stay at one of the two hotels. Those who remain up there once all the tourists have left will surely spot ibex as they graze during dusk and dawn.
The Golden Roundtrip is the itinerary from Lucerne to Mt. Pilatus and back. It is open nearly all year except for two weeks of maintenance in late October/early November. Check the webcams for a preview and get 50 percent off the cable car with a Swiss Travel Pass.
Double-Decker Cable Car to Stanserhorn (1898 m)
Ride the world’s first open-top double-decker cable car, the Cabrio, to the summit of Stanserhorn. Stanserhorn in the Uri Alps is a bit off the main tourist route, making it a legitimate alternative to central Switzerland's Blockbuster peaks.
Mount Stanserhorn has a revolving restaurant and a nature reserve with rare alpine plants. And, if you get lucky, you might even spot a marmot!
Start by taking the train to Stans, which is about a 20-minute ride from Lucerne. Just steps from the main train station, you will find the historic funicular built in 1893. Approximately 25 minutes later, you will transfer onto the waiting cable car. Enjoy fresh air and unobstructed views from the rooftop deck.
The aptly named CabriO cable car is the world's first double-decker cable car! The top floor, with space for thirty passengers, feels like a boat deck, offering unprecedented views of ten lakes. I definitely dare you to try it out and feel the wind in your hair...
Stanserhorn is open through the end of November. Check the webcam and reserve your time slot online. And the best comes last: the Stanserhorn is entirely covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.
World's Steepest Cable Car from Stechelberg to Mürren (1638 m)
In 2024, the world's steepest cable car opened. And I can't wait to experience the latest thrills in the Bernese Alps!
This engineering marvel, with its stunning 110-degree incline, connects the villages of Stechelberg and Mürren in roughly four minutes. The Mürrenbahn climbs steeply from Stechelberg to the car-free village of Mürren.
The mere thought of ascending at such a dramatic angle (and speed) makes my heart race... Like with many of Switzerland's cable cars, the journey is an adventure in itself, with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls along the way.
This cable car has earned a top spot on my must-experience list for my next mountain excursion!
The Farmer Cable Cars in Engelberg
Still today, many farmers live in remote areas of the Swiss Alps that are out of reach for cars. And if there is a road leading up to their chalets or dairy farms, the quickest way to civilization might be across a deep valley.
Discover the quirky side of Swiss transport with Engelberg’s “Buiräbähnli” or farmer cable cars. These small lifts connect remote farms and hiking trails, offering a unique glimpse into alpine life.
Farmers in Engelberg are especially known for their makeshift cable cars. The cabins are often made of wood and hang on a steel cable. Whether used to transport rations, cheese loaves, or children on the way to school, these farmer cable cars should be considered a cultural treasure.
We once rode in a "Buiräbähnli" in the Uri Alps. It’s an experience I will never forget! Engelberg offers the Buiräbähnli Safari to the public, a multi-day hike involving overnight stays with farmers, and several crossings in farmer cable cars...
Types of Cable Cars in Switzerland
Have you noticed? Not all cable cars are alike. Switzerland boasts a variety of cable cars, from revolving cabins to vintage funiculars. Each offers a different way to experience the mountains, whether you’re seeking thrills or tranquility.
By definition, Switzerland's mountain transportation system includes three main types of cable cars. Each serves a different purpose, and I can highly recommend you try them all!
First of all, the aerial tramway is a classic cable car made of a large cabin holding numerous passengers at once. They typically run at set intervals, such as every 30 minutes, or once there is no more space.
These systems use one or two stationary cables for support and a third moving cable for propulsion. Aerial tramways are often used to access the highest peaks and may swing slightly when passing support pylons. During peak times, especially ski season, these can become quite crowded. They operate as reversible systems, with cabins shuttling back and forth between terminals.
Gondola lifts feature smaller cabins, typically for 4 to 15 people, that circulate continuously. Since they go round and round, there is no set timetable with departure times - just hop on!
Unlike aerial tramways, gondolas are attached to a continuously circulating cable. They provide stable, smooth rides and have become increasingly popular due to their high throughput. I have spotted various kinds in Switzerland, including monocable gondolas (using one cable for both support and propulsion), bi-cable gondolas (separate support and traction cables), and tri-cable gondolas (two carrying ropes and one pulling rope) which offer exceptional wind stability and capacity.
And finally, chair lifts consist of open benches with safety bars, primarily serving skiers in winter. They operate continuously or on demand and may only run in summer if no tramways or gondolas are available. Modern chair lifts can transport up to 10 people per chair and often feature heated seats and protective hoods.
Beyond these main types, Switzerland also boasts unique innovations like the CabriO on Mount Stanserhorn - the world's first double-decker, open-air cable car offering unobstructed panoramic views.
Family-Friendly Cable Cars in Switzerland
Switzerland’s cable cars make mountain adventures possible for families with kids of all ages-and strollers in tow.
Many routes are designed with families in mind, offering easy boarding, accessible cabins, and attractions that keep little explorers entertained from valley to summit. Here are some top picks for family-friendly cable cars, and what makes them stand out:
Brunni Engelberg (Ristis Cable Car)
This cable car in Engelberg is a favorite for families, thanks to its spacious, stroller-accessible cabins and the legendary Globi’s Alpine Playground at the top. The playground has climbing elements, a wild water world, and plenty of space to run around.
Getting there is a breeze, too: the cable car is stroller-friendly, and the journey from Lucerne by train and bus is smooth and direct.
Sattel-Hochstuckli (Stuckli Rondo)
Known as the world’s first revolving cable car, the Stuckli Rondo whisks families to an adventure area packed with sled runs, trampolines, and bouncy castles. The cabins are roomy and welcome both wheelchairs and pushchairs. At the top, kids can burn off energy while parents enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Adliswil–Felsenegg Cable Car (Zurich Region)
Just outside Zurich, this cable car is fully accessible and part of the city’s public transport network. It’s a practical option for families, with easy access for strollers and plenty of walking trails at the top. The ride is short but scenic, and the Felsenegg area offers restaurants, playgrounds, and gentle paths suitable for little legs.
Oeschinensee Gondola (Bernese Oberland)
The gondola to Oeschinensee is stroller-friendly (strollers must be folded), and staff are happy to help with boarding. Once at the top, the path to the lake is mostly obstacle-free, making it suitable for families with young children. Remember to reserve your tickets ahead of time.
Aletsch Arena Cable Cars (Bettmeralp, Fiescheralp, Riederalp)
These cable cars are designed for easy access, making them ideal for families with strollers. At the top, you’ll find wide, stroller-friendly paths and playgrounds with mountain views. The region is also known for its gentle hikes and family-friendly infrastructure.
Melchsee-Frutt (Obwalden)
The cable car to Melchsee-Frutt is another great choice for families. At the summit, there’s a big playground and flat, stroller-friendly trails around the lakes. The area is perfect for easy walks, picnics, and letting kids explore safely.
Most of these cable cars are stroller-friendly and connect directly with trains, buses, or boats, making the journey seamless for families. Do you know any other family-friendly cable cars in Switzerland? Please let us know in the comments, and we will add them to this list.
How to Ride Cable Cars in Switzerland on a Budget
Exploring Switzerland's stunning peaks via cable car doesn't have to break the bank. While individual tickets can add up, a few strategic options will significantly reduce your costs, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views without emptying your wallet.
We always recommend the Swiss Travel Pass, one of the most cost-effective ways to experience Switzerland's extensive public transport network. This all-in-one pass covers many cable cars entirely, and others at a discount. When purchased individually, cable car tickets can add up quickly.
For exploring central Switzerland specifically, consider making Lucerne your base. The Tell-Pass provides unlimited access to several top cable cars in the region, including those leading to Mount Pilatus, Mount Titlis, and Stanserhorn. Additionally, you'll receive numerous discounts on funiculars and mountain railways within central Switzerland.
So, as you can tell (no pun intended!), by strategically utilizing the Swiss Travel Pass or the Tell-Pass, you can experience Switzerland's incredible cable car network without exceeding your budget, ensuring an unforgettable and affordable adventure.
When in the Bernese Alps, get up early and fetch a discounted ride to the top of Niederhorn. The round-trip Comfort-Ticket allows you to use the cable car outside of peak hours after 4 PM and before 9 AM. During the summer months of July, August, and September, you can double-dip every Friday and Saturday evening. Not only can you use your ticket for daytime excursions, but it also covers evening trips, with the last descent available at 10:20 PM.
Unbelievably, you can use the Schilthorn cable car for free on your birthday!
Why Cable Cars Matter in Switzerland
Cable cars are stitched into the Swiss travel experience, connecting visitors and locals with the country’s most spectacular alpine scenery. Switzerland’s dramatic peaks and hidden valleys would be nearly impossible to reach for most travelers without these ingenious lifts.
Accessibility to Remote Locations
Cable cars in Switzerland make it easy to soar above forests and cliffs, delivering you straight to panoramic viewpoints and charming mountain villages, no hiking boots required.
A Swiss cable car ride transforms a simple transfer into an unforgettable adventure. Gliding high above the landscape, you’ll find the journey itself is a memory, sometimes even outshining the destination.
Check out the farmer cable cars we recommend, a must-do experience, even when the destination is a random alpine meadow.
Enhancing the Tourist Experience
Let’s be honest: in Switzerland, the ride up is often just as legendary as the mountain at the top. Many travelers leave with stories about the cable car journey, those views (!), and that first breath of crisp alpine air.
They make it easy to soar above forests and cliffs, delivering you straight to panoramic viewpoints and charming mountain villages, no hiking boots required.
Efficient Transport Solutions
Cable cars offer an efficient and environmentally friendly way to explore the mountains, especially since many connect places that cars could never reach.
By providing access without building roads, they help preserve Switzerland’s natural beauty for the next generation.
Integration with the Transport Network
The Swiss transport network is famously smooth, and cable cars fit right in. Whether you’re stepping off a train, bus, or boat, transfers are designed to be easy, making gliding from lowland lakes to snowy summits simple thanks to well-coordinated public transport.
Cable cars are a signature Swiss experience we highly recommend to any "Newly Swissed" residents or visitors. Regardless of which cable car you pick, it will likely be a fun experience getting from the valley floor to sky-high peaks.
FAQ About Cable Cars in Switzerland
Wondering about tickets, accessibility, or the best time to ride? Our FAQ covers everything you need to know for a smooth Swiss cable car experience.
Swiss Cable Cars In Comparison
| Cable Car | Region | Top Altitude (m) | Return Price (CHF) | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matterhorn Glacier Paradise | Zermatt (Valais) | 3,883 | ~120–150* | Highest in Europe, panoramic views |
| Titlis Rotair | Engelberg (Obwalden) | 3,020 | ~96 | Rotating cabin, glacier cave |
| Schilthorn – Piz Gloria | Bernese Oberland | 2,970 | ~88 | 360° view, James Bond location |
| Glacier 3000 | Les Diablerets | 2,965 | ~80 | Peak Walk suspension bridge |
| Eiger Express | Grindelwald (Bern) | 2,320 | ~64 | Fastest to Eiger Glacier, modern cabins |
| Pilatus | Lucerne | 2,128 | ~78 | Panoramic gondola, dragon legends |
| Stanserhorn | Nidwalden | 1,898 | ~75 | Open-top double-decker cable car |
| Mürrenbahn (Stechelberg–Mürren) | Bernese Oberland | 1,638 | ~22 | Steep ascent, car-free village access |
| Brunni Engelberg (Ristis) | Engelberg (Obwalden) | 1,600 | ~38 | Family-friendly, playground, stroller access |
| Sattel-Hochstuckli | Schwyz | 1,200 | ~36 | Revolving cable car, adventure park |
| Adliswil–Felsenegg | Zurich | 804 | ~12 | Stroller-friendly, city views |
- Family-friendly/stroller access: Brunni Engelberg, Sattel-Hochstuckli, Adliswil–Felsenegg, Mürrenbahn
- Unique features: Rotating cabins (Titlis, Sattel-Hochstuckli), open-top (Stanserhorn), record-breaking heights (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise), adventure parks/playgrounds (Brunni Engelberg, Sattel-Hochstuckli), famous film locations (Schilthorn)
Sylvia
