CabriO World’s first Open Top Cable Car Ticket to Mt Stanserhorn

If you’re looking for a scenic day trip from Lucerne that combines vintage charm, pioneering engineering, and breathtaking mountain views, the CabriO World’s first Open Top Cable Car Ticket to Mt. Stanserhorn offers just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of an experience that balances fun, natural beauty, and a touch of innovation.

What we love about this adventure is the seamless combination of history and modern design—riding a 19th-century funicular, then stepping aboard the world’s only open-top, convertible cable car—and the chance to savor 360-degree panoramas from the mountain’s summit. The option to relax in a revolving restaurant and stretch your legs on a summit hike makes it ideal for a variety of travelers, from casual sightseers to outdoor enthusiasts.

A potential consideration is the ticket process, which some users found less streamlined than expected—being asked to exchange prebooked tickets at the counter rather than skipping lines entirely. Nevertheless, the overall value and the views seem to outweigh such minor inconveniences, especially given the fair price point of around $102 per person.

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic mountain scenery, want to experience innovative Swiss engineering, or simply enjoy a relaxing, scenic outing away from busy city streets. It’s perfect for day-trippers, families, or anyone eager to combine a bit of adventure with leisure.

Key Points

• Ease of Access: Located just 15 minutes from Lucerne, it’s simple to reach by car or train.
• Unique Ride: The open-top CabriO cable car offers an unparalleled view and a fresh breeze at 360 meters above ground.
• Historical Charm: The vintage funicular provides a nostalgic way to ascend the mountain.
• Panoramic Vistas: Expect sweeping views of Swiss Alps and lakes, with expert explanations from the mountain ranger.
• Flexible Time: The total experience ranges from 2 to 6 hours, allowing for a relaxed visit.
• Value for Money: Includes entry to the mountain station, funicular, cable car, and access to the restaurant and hiking trails.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: The Funicular at Stans

Your journey begins with a short trip to Stans, easily accessible from Lucerne. The Stanserhorn-Bahn is a vintage funicular train that dates back to the 19th century, offering a charming and comfortable ascent. Many reviewers appreciate the historical atmosphere—“The train ride is nice, and the Cabrio was nice and smooth,” notes Ken B.

Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with a spectacular view—about 100 kilometers of Swiss Alps and 10 lakes. The proximity makes this outing appealing, with only 15 minutes of travel from the city, and accessible by both car and public transportation.

The CabriO Cable Car: A Pinnacle of Engineering and Design

The highlight of this tour is the CabriO Gondola, a world’s first in open-top cable car design. Its convertible feature allows you to experience an unobstructed view of the alpine scenery, feeling the wind and sunshine while soaring above mountain peaks.

Travelers describe the ride as “nice and smooth,” and the exposure on the outside platform provides a thrilling perspective you simply can’t get from enclosed cabins. Expect to feel a slight chill as you ascend higher, with the view expanding through the open-air gondola—the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Reaching the Summit: Clarity and Choice

Once at the summit, you have options: take a 30-minute guided walk with a mountain ranger, who shares insights about the local flora, mountain peaks, and history. From the very peak, a 360-degree view unfolds—mountains, lakes, and deep blue skies.

For the hungry or thirsty, the Rondorama revolving restaurant offers a chance to relax and enjoy a meal or drink with a 360-degree view—a feature that many reviews praise as a highlight. The 45-minute rotation lets you see the scenery from every angle as you dine, making it a memorable part of the trip.

Hiking and Exploring

If you’re feeling energetic, a mountain hike is available, with trails that are accessible and well-marked. The guide’s commentary enriches the walk, making it suitable even for casual walkers. Some reviews mention “taking the gondola, then hiking back down,” which is an option if you want to extend your adventure.

Practical Considerations

Tickets are prebooked to save time, but some travelers report having to exchange tickets at the counter rather than skipping the line entirely. Despite this, the overall convenience and value seem to outweigh the minor hassle. The full experience can last from 2 to 6 hours, giving flexibility for a quick visit or a leisurely day in the mountains.

Real Traveler Feedback and Insights

From the reviews, several aspects stand out:

• Stunning views are the main draw. “Unbelievable,” says one traveler, emphasizing the panoramic vistas that unfold at the summit.
• The ride in the CabriO garners praise for being “nice and smooth,” with the open-air feature creating a unique feeling of connection with nature.
• The revolving restaurant is a hit for combining fine food with breathtaking scenery—“The mountains revolve around you,” says a satisfied diner.
• Some reviews mention saving money—”We saved almost $100 over other tours,” which makes this experience a good value for those on a budget.
• The historical funicular adds a nostalgic charm, and many appreciate the ease of reach and convenience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—the tour is often booked 48 days ahead, so plan early, especially during peak seasons.
• Be prepared for weather—it can be colder at the top, especially on the outside platform, so bring a jacket.
• Time your visit—a morning or early afternoon trip offers the best light for photos and clear views.
• Consider your endurance—with options for hiking or just sightseeing, you can tailor the trip to your energy level.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—the scenery is photogenic from every angle.
• Check the ticket exchange process—arrive early to avoid delays at the ticket counter.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking scenic beauty combined with a touch of Swiss engineering. The combination of vintage funicular charm, the innovative CabriO cable car, and panoramic mountain views makes it a memorable outing. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers who want a relaxed yet visually spectacular day outside of Lucerne.

If you love stunning vistas, authentic mountain ambiance, and a bit of adventure, this trip delivers. The opportunity to relax in a revolving restaurant or hike summit trails adds layers of enjoyment, making it more than just a ride up a mountain.

However, if you prefer fast-paced or highly organized tours with fewer logistical considerations, be aware that some reviews mention minor delays at ticket exchange. Still, for the price and experience offered, this is a value-packed day of natural beauty and Swiss ingenuity.

FAQ

How do I get tickets for this tour?
Tickets are prebooked online through vendors like Viator and are redeemable at the designated counter in Stans. It’s recommended to book in advance since the tour is popular.

Where do I meet to start the tour?
You meet at Stansstaderstrasse 19, 6370 Stans, Switzerland. The ticket redemption point is open daily from 8:15 AM to 5:15 PM.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the attractions is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own travel from Lucerne to Stans.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts between 2 to 6 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop, dining, or hiking.

What is the price for this experience?
The average price is around $101.66 per person, which includes the funicular, cable car, and access to the mountain and restaurant.

Can I hike down the mountain?
Yes, some travelers choose to hike down after taking the cable car up, enjoying the scenery at their own pace.

Is the open-top cable car safe?
Absolutely. The CabriO is a unique engineering feat and is designed with safety in mind. The open platform is a highlight, not a hazard.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for changing weather, a camera, and perhaps some snacks or water. The summit has a restaurant, but packing some essentials is always wise.

Is this experience suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers find it accessible, though the open-air gondola may be chilly for very young children or those sensitive to cold. The walk to the summit trail is moderate, so assess individual mobility.

This trip to Mt. Stanserhorn offers a blend of history, innovation, and stunning natural scenery—an authentic Swiss highlight that makes for a memorable day outside Lucerne. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, an outdoor lover, or simply in search of spectacular views, this adventure has something special to offer.