- Check the summit webcam and weather before you go
- Book a timed departure online, especially in July and August
- Wrap up: it can be -10°C at the top even in summer
- Take it slowly; 3,842m is high enough to feel the altitude
- Type
- Viewpoint
- Where
- French Alps
- Time needed
- half a day
- Admission
- about €75-80 return in summer (2026), book a timed slot
The Aiguille du Midi cable car rises from the centre of Chamonix at 1,035m to a rocky summit at 3,842m in about 20 minutes, with a change at the Plan de l'Aiguille. When the upper section opened in 1955 it was the highest cable car in the world. For anyone visiting the French Alps, it is the easiest way to stand face to face with Mont Blanc, at about 4,806m the highest mountain in Western Europe.
What you'll see
At the top, a series of terraces, tunnels and a lift take you to the summit platform, with a 360-degree panorama over the Mont Blanc massif and, on clear days, as far as the Matterhorn in Switzerland. Look out for:
- Step into the Void, a glass box suspended over a sheer drop of about 1,000m.
- The view down the Vallée Blanche, the famous off-piste ski route and a starting point for mountaineers.
- Exhibits about alpinism and the mountain's history.
From late spring to early autumn you can also continue on the Panoramic Mont-Blanc gondola across the glacier to Pointe Helbronner on the Italian border, for an extra fee.
Practical information
- Tickets: a summer return costs about €75-80 for an adult in 2026, less in winter and for children. Book a timed slot online and check current prices; the Mont Blanc Multipass can be good value if you plan several lifts.
- Getting there: the lower station is a short walk from Chamonix town centre. Chamonix is about 1h15 by road from Geneva airport.
- Best time to go: a clear morning. Clouds often build later in the day, and the first cabins avoid the longest queues in summer. The lift closes for maintenance for some weeks each year, usually in spring or autumn.
- Altitude: you go up almost 2,800m in 20 minutes. Move slowly, drink water, and head down if you feel dizzy or unwell. It is not recommended for children under three.
The Plan de l'Aiguille mid-station (2,317m) is the start of the Grand Balcon Nord, a superb walk to the Montenvers and the Mer de Glace glacier.
Skiers come for the Vallée Blanche, a guided route of about 20km. See our ski deals in France and our France guide for more.
Where is Aiguille du Midi?
Open in OpenStreetMap · 45.87861, 6.88722
Frequently asked questions
Is the Aiguille du Midi worth it in bad weather?
Usually not. If the summit is in cloud you'll see little, so check the webcam and forecast before buying and keep your plans flexible.
Do I need special clothing?
Warm layers, a hat, gloves, sunglasses and sun cream. Even in August temperatures at the top are often below freezing.
Can you go up to the Aiguille du Midi in winter?
Yes. It runs most of the year, though hours are shorter and high winds can close it at short notice.
Deals nearby
Written by
Thomas Ski, mountains & expeditions editor
Thomas is happiest above the tree line or below the Antarctic Circle. He writes our ski, mountain and polar expedition guides.
More from ThomasOpening times and ticket prices change often; check the official website shortly before you visit.