What type of tickets should I buy?
There are 3 types of tickets and their possible variations (age groups / family pass):
The Return Train, allows you to reach the Montenvers site to contemplate the panorama, to walk, but it does not allow you to take the gondola that goes down to the Mer de Glace. The return train ride to Chamonix is included. It is also possible to buy one-way or one-way return tickets (ideal for hikers for example)
Le Fofait Alpi: Intended for mountaineers, it includes a return trip + a return gondola to access the glacier. The round trip can be done on different days (e.g. mountain race including an overnight stay in a refuge)
The Mer de Glace Voyage gives access to the train (round trip), the gondola (round trip) and visits (ice cave, Temple of Nature, glacorium) and visits to
The Vallée Blanche from France or Italy:
The train is accessible to MBU pass holders, if you do not have this type of pass, you will need to buy a ‘return Vallée Blanche’ ticket directly on the machine (credit card payment) located at the departure of the Mer de Glace gondola.
Is there an offer for families?
The ‘Voyage Mer de Glace’ or ‘Return Train’ family pass is there for you! It is valid for:
2 adults + young people (5-14 years old): 2 adults and the first young person at the full price, the second young person at -75% and, 3rd, 4th, 5th free – 3 Free Maximum
What are the opening dates and times?
You can consult the opening and opening hours information by clicking here.
Can I book my seat on the Train du Montenvers?
Access to the train is without reservation. All you have to do is go to the station with your ticket. (Ticket that you can buy directly at the ticket offices located at the station). Access is also possible if you have a 100% pedestrian stay pass (from 2 to 21 days) or a Mont Blanc Unlimited pass
What is the validity of my ticket?
Purchase at the cash desk: Tickets purchased at the ticket office are valid throughout the season corresponding to the purchase price (e.g. the adult Mer de Glace Voyage ticket at €39.50 is valid until the end of the winter 2025 season)
Purchase on the Internet: Tickets purchased online are valid exclusively for the excursion date selected at the time of purchase and will not be returned or exchanged.
Is the tour free for children or seniors?
Children under 5 years old can travel for free (with proof).
Children from 5 to 14 years old inclusive benefit from a reduced rate.
People aged 65 and over benefit from a reduced rate
What is the visit time?
The average time of a visit is about 2h00 to 2h30 and can change depending on the number of people on site and in the stations. The time for a train ride is 20 minutes.
The opening of the Ice Cave, the Temple of Nature, the Glaciorum and the gondola also depends on the weather conditions and the opening conditions that are given every day.
What are the restrictions?
Visiting the Montenvers and Mer de Glace sites is strongly discouraged for children under 12 months. Pets are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash.
No restrictions for pregnant women and the elderly.
Is the access adapted for people with reduced mobility?
Weather conditions (to allow for possible evacuation – transshipment)
It is necessary to make the purchase at the cash desk and to notify the operator when you make your purchase, as access to the trains is conditioned by the size and weight of the seat. On the Montenvers site, access to the glaciorium with accompanying person. Other activities, including the gondola, are not accessible ;D dedicated toilets are accessible at Chamonix station and at the Montenvers arrival station
Mal and blind:
Guide or assistance dogs are allowed on board the trains at no extra cost.
The summit site has some Braille signage.
A 50% discount is granted to people with disabilities (delivery at the cash desk, on presentation of proof)
Can I access the train with a stroller?
Small (foldable) strollers are allowed on board the train, and children under 5 years old can travel for free.
However, because of the stairs, access to the cave is not allowed for strollers
Will it be sunny on the day of my excursion?
We recommend that you check the weather forecast by clicking here or on specialized sites, including on the day of your excursion (in the mountains the conditions, including temperature, can change very quickly).
How to dress for the excursion?
Weather conditions are very specific and can change quickly at altitude.
It is essential to plan and choose the right clothing to go to the Mer de Glace and to check the weather forecast before your excursion. Depending on the season, and to cope with the varied weather conditions you may encounter, it is essential to have warm and waterproof clothing. It is also recommended to be equipped with good shoes (such as sneakers or hiking boots) and sunglasses + sunscreen.
How do I get to the departure of the Train du Montenvers ?
Address of the station: 35 place de la Mer de Glace – 74400 Chamonix Mont-Blanc.
You arrive by:
Car, motorhome or coach: all the information is available by clicking here
Train by train via the Mont Blanc Express: The SNCF station is located less than 300m away, you just have to take the outdoor footbridge which will allow you to access the Montenvers train station directly.
Regular bus line: The bus station is located less than a 10-minute walk from the Montenvers train station.
How many people can board the train?
Each of the 6 trains (consisting of a wagon and a railcar) in operation can carry up to 160 people.