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Observation deck · Chamonix, Auvérnia-Ródano-Alpes
Aiguille du Midi
Peak of 3,842 meters above Chamonix, reached by cable car in two stages. At the top there are terraces, the Pas dans le Vide and a close view of Mont Blanc.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Aiguille du Midi
The Aiguille du Midi is the highest peak of the Chamonix needles, at 3,842 meters. The cable car departs from the centre of Chamonix, at 1,038 meters, and rises in two stages, with a stop at the Plan de l'Aiguille. The current line has been in operation since 1955.
At the top, walkways, tunnels and terraces link the mountain's peaks. From the upper terrace you can see Mont Blanc, at 4,807 meters, the highest point of the Alps, as well as the Swiss and Italian Alps on a clear day. The Pas dans le Vide is a glass box attached to the cliff, suspended over more than a thousand meters of void.
From there the Panoramic Mont-Blanc also departs, a cable car that crosses the glacier du Géant to Pointe Helbronner, already in Italy. It operates only in the European summer, usually from July to September.
The Aiguille du Midi is also the starting point for the Vallée Blanche, an off-piste ski descent done only with a mountain guide.
The cable car closes part of the year for maintenance, generally in November and the beginning of December and also in spring. Check the dates before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day, including queues, the ascent and time at the top. Add about 1 to 1.5 hours if you include the Panoramic Mont-Blanc.
Best time
On a clear day, right on the first ascent of the morning, when there are usually fewer clouds and queues. In the European summer, from July to August, book your time in advance. Out of season there are closures for maintenance, generally in November: check.
How to get there
The departure station is in the centre of Chamonix, about a 10-minute walk from Gare de Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
Tip
At the top the temperature is below zero even in summer: bring a jacket, hat, gloves and sunglasses. At 3,800 meters altitude can cause shortness of breath and headache; climb the stairs slowly and do not bring infants. Check the webcams before buying your ticket.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Aiguille du Midi
Is it cold at the top of the Aiguille du Midi even in summer?
Yes. At 3,842 meters temperatures are often below zero year-round. Bring a coat, hat, gloves and sunglasses.
Does the cable car operate year-round?
No. It closes for maintenance part of the year, typically in November and early December and also in spring. Check the dates beforehand.
Can you go to Italy?
In summer, generally from July to September, the Panoramic Mont-Blanc cable car links the top of the Aiguille du Midi to Pointe Helbronner on the Italian border.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness?
The ascent is rapid and some people experience shortness of breath, dizziness or headaches. Move slowly and go down if you don’t feel well. Infants should not ascend.