Switzerland boasts numerous renowned mountain destinations, making it challenging to decide where to explore in the Swiss Alps. If time and budget allow, it’s best not to limit yourself to a single location. However, if you can only visit one or two Swiss mountain destinations, the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe should undoubtedly be among them. The Jungfraujoch is synonymous with extraordinary feats: visitors arrive at Europe’s highest-altitude railway station and marvel at the unparalleled UNESCO World Heritage Aletsch glacier. A trip to the Jungfraujoch adds a remarkable touch to any Swiss vacation, as it is one of the most iconic and stunning locations in the Swiss Alps. But what exactly can you see and do at the Jungfraujoch, and is it worth the hefty price tag?
In this guide, we will showcase the top Jungfraujoch tours and provide all the essential information you need to plan a memorable day trip to Jungfrau.
What is the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
The Jungfraujoch, often referred to as the Top of Europe, is a remarkable year-round mountain destination in Switzerland, nestled within the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage site. It boasts Europe’s highest railway station, situated at an altitude of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level. The majestic location offers visitors awe-inspiring views and experiences amidst ice, snow, and rocks.
With an average temperature of -7.9°C (17.78°F) and 1,700 hours of sunshine annually, the Jungfraujoch is a year-round destination that captivates visitors with its Alpine landscape.
The Jungfraujoch is situated between two towering four-thousander peaks, the Jungfrau (which means “young woman” or “virgin”) and Mönch, at an elevation of 3,466 meters (11,371 feet). This lowest pass between the two mountains is referred to as the Jungfrau saddle (Joch), and it certainly makes visitors feel as though they are standing at the top of the world.
This unique destination is accessible within two hours from Interlaken, with travelers journeying either via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald past the Kleine Scheidegg mountain pass. The Jungfrau Railway then transports visitors through the Eiger and Mönch mountains. The railway itself is a testament to human ingenuity, as it has been in operation for over a century, providing visitors with a breathtaking ascent through a steep tunnel.
Swiss entrepreneur Adolf Guyer-Zeller conceived the ambitious idea of constructing a tunnel and railway line to the rocky summit of Sphinx, which now houses an observation deck at Jungfraujoch. Despite the challenges faced during the 16-year construction, which began in 1896, the Jungfrau railway line remains an extraordinary accomplishment and still holds the title of the highest railway station in Europe over a century later.
The Jungfraujoch train stops once on the way up to the top. At the Eismeer station (3010m or 9,875 ft.) visitors can disembark to get a glimpse through picture windows onto a landscape of eternal ice and snow. From there the panorama extends to the cleft fall of the Aletsch glacier, to the Schreckhorn, Wetterhorn and the Fiescherhörner.
What to do at Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch offers more than just the distinction of being home to Europe’s highest train station; it stands out among other mountain destinations with its variety of attractions and activities. Visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring this remarkable location, making it an excellent choice for a day trip in the Swiss Alps.
A diverse array of activities awaits at Jungfraujoch, with some, such as hiking or engaging in snow sports at the Snow Fun park, being seasonal (summer only). However, the majority of attractions are available throughout the year. The following is a brief overview of the numerous sights and experiences that Jungfraujoch has to offer.
Sphinx Observation Deck
The Jungfraujoch is more than just a stunning viewpoint; it also serves as an ideal location for various research projects spanning fields such as geology and astronomy. While the laboratories are not open to the public, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking viewing terraces accessible to all. An ultrafast elevator transports you to the observatory, which functions as an international research station, ascending 108 meters in just 25 seconds.
The unparalleled view of the Aletsch glacier’s snowy expanse from the Sphinx observatory is truly remarkable. This 22 km long glacier reaches almost a kilometer in thickness, an astounding amount of ice. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its exceptional natural beauty, outstanding geological features, and its role as a vital indicator of climate change, providing invaluable insights into the Earth’s glacial history.
On a clear day or when positioned above the clouds, witnessing the Aletsch Glacier is an unforgettable experience and a must-see attraction at the Jungfraujoch.
Ice Palace
For an intimate encounter with the glacier, be sure to visit the Ice Palace, arguably the most awe-inspiring attraction at Jungfraujoch. Strolling through an ice tunnel beneath the glacier is an exhilarating experience that never loses its charm, no matter how many times you’ve done it.
Originally, mountain guides carved the passageways and chambers of the Ice Palace using picks and saws in the 1930s within the heart of the Jungfraufirn. Nowadays, skilled artists craft the ice sculptures with remarkable flair. As visitors embark on a smooth journey through this frosty world, the 250-meter-long “Alpine Sensation” corridor offers insights into the captivating story of Jungfraujoch’s development. It employs visual and auditory elements to chronicle the project from its inception to completion.
The Ice Palace at Jungfraujoch showcases an ever-changing array of ice sculptures, ensuring a unique experience with each visit.
Jungfrau Panorama
At times, the Jungfraujoch may be obscured by clouds, making it difficult to fully appreciate the surrounding mountains. However, the Jungfrau Panorama film allows you to immerse yourself in this enchanting, cotton-like wonderland. This captivating 360° panorama showcases the stunning landscape in a way that would be impossible to experience otherwise, and is available to visitors 365 days a year.
Through the camera’s lens, visitors can soar through clouds, descend into icy crevices, or tumble into snowdrifts, regardless of the current weather conditions. So even if your visit coincides with a less favorable day, when the mountains are shrouded in clouds, this one-of-a-kind virtual experience ensures that you can still marvel at the magnificent panorama.
Glacier Plateau & Snow Fun Park
Just a ten-minute walk from the Jungfraujoch railway station, the Plateau awaits you as the coolest hotspot in the Alps. The Glacier Plateau is an extremely popular photo stop at Jungfraujoch, providing guaranteed snow and ice throughout the year, along with breathtaking views of the nearby Jungfrau and Silberhorn mountain peaks. On one side, you can gaze upon the expansive Mittelland, offering views extending to the Black Forest and the Vosges, while on the other, the Aletsch Glacier is framed by towering four-thousand-meter peaks. There is no better vista to be found.
The Snow Fun Park at Jungfraujoch is open outside of ski season, from early May to mid-October. If you visit Jungfrau during the winter months, numerous ski slopes and sledding runs are available further down in the Kleine Scheidegg ski resort. However, if you choose to explore this stunning region in the summer, the Snow Fun Park at Jungfraujoch offers a variety of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snow tubing.
Mönchsjochhütte
The highest-altitude serviced hut in Switzerland can be reached from the Jungfraujoch via a marked footpath in just 45 minutes. This trail takes you through the awe-inspiring glacier landscape situated within the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site of Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch. Please note that hiking is at your own risk, and the path to the hut may be closed at any time due to avalanche risks or snowstorms. It is essential to wear sturdy hiking boots and always remain on the marked paths.
The hut boasts a stunning view of Central and Eastern Switzerland as well as the Valais mountains. Daily life at 3,650 meters above sea level presents its own unique challenges. Washing is done with meltwater from a 3,000-liter tank, while the hut keeper transports food and drinks from the Jungfraujoch on a snowmobile. The dormitory is open to all, offering an unforgettable experience complete with breathtaking sunsets and sunrises.
Lindt Swiss Chocolate Experience, Shops and Restaurant
A visit to Switzerland is incomplete without indulging in Swiss chocolate, and Jungfraujoch is no exception. Lindt Chocolate Heaven offers more than just a chocolate shop experience. It combines traditional chocolate-making methods with interactive exhibits that showcase the fascinating history of chocolate.
Rodolphe Lindt, the founder of Lindt, nearly gave up on his quest to improve the taste of chocolate. However, a fortunate accident occurred when he left his custom stirring machine on over a weekend. Upon returning, he discovered that the coarse cocoa-sugar blend had transformed into a smooth, melting crème. This heavenly sensation is replicated for visitors at Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven. Guests can operate Lindt’s mixing machine, learn from a virtual Lindt Maître Chocolatier how a chocolate bar is crafted, and find a variety of delectable treats in the shop.
Given that you are likely to spend an entire day at Jungfraujoch, it is reassuring to know that there are several appealing restaurants and shops on site. You can find everything from Swiss chocolate to traditional souvenirs, Swiss knives, and even clothing at the Jungfraujoch shops. Dining options include a self-service restaurant as well as an à la carte establishment boasting stunning glacier views.
Jungfraujoch Tickets
Jungfraujoch ticket prices can be quite steep and vary depending on the season and the train station from which you are traveling. In high season, a regular ticket from a nearby train station can cost over 200 CHF (approximately 180 EUR or 215 USD).
It’s worth noting that children under 6 travel free of charge, and those under 16 pay half the price.
- Swiss Travel Pass Holders receive 25% discount
- Half Fare Card and GA holders receive 50% discount on all tickets
- The Jungfrau Travel Pass doesn’t fully cover the last part of the Jungfraujoch journey from the Eigergletscher stop at the top of the Eiger Express cable car station. The pass however offers a 40-50% discount for this part of the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe ticket.
Is it Worth it?
You might be questioning whether it’s worth the expense to visit Jungfraujoch. While it is undoubtedly costly, keep in mind that Switzerland, in general, is an expensive destination. Jungfraujoch offers a truly unique experience in the Swiss Alps, making it well worth the investment if you can afford it.
However, if you have a long list of places to visit in Switzerland or are on a tighter budget, there are numerous other stunning destinations that are more affordable and still worth exploring.
How to get to the Jungfraujoch
There are several routes to reach Jungfraujoch:
Cogwheel trains transport passengers up to Jungfraujoch from Kleine Scheidegg, a mountain train station. To get to Kleine Scheidegg, you have two options if you’re starting your journey from Interlaken:
- Interlaken – Zweilütschinen – Lauterbrunnen – Wengen – Kleine Scheidegg (check timetable)
- Interlaken – Zweilütschinen – Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg
Following the completion of the Jungfrau Railways’ V-Bahn project and the opening of the “Eiger Express” on December 5, 2020, travelers can now reach Jungfraujoch from Interlaken in just one and a half hours. The new Eiger Express tri-cable gondola runs from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier station, making it the quickest way to reach Jungfraujoch. Once at Eiger Glacier station, take the train for the final leg to Jungfraujoch.
- Interlaken – Zweilütschinen – Grindelwald Terminal – Eigergletscher
While most visitors begin their journey to Jungfraujoch in Interlaken, there are numerous other train stations along the way where you can board. To make the most of your trip through this breathtaking alpine region, we recommend traveling up via one route and returning via the other.
Tips and practical Infos before visiting Jungfraujoch
- Jungfraujoch Top of Europe is open 365 days a year
- Plan a varied round trip using different routes up and down
- Reserve Jungfraujoch railway tickets in advance
- Mornings usually have the best weather
- Allocate an entire day for your Jungfraujoch visit. If you have some spare time, consider stopping at Wengen to explore the charming mountain village. Additionally, Kleine Scheidegg is an excellent spot for a brief stroll.
- Wear multiple thin layers to adapt to temperature changes; bring gloves, sunglasses, a hat, and wear solid shoes
- At 3,454 m altitude, be mindful of potential (light) altitude sickness above 2,000 m; take it slow and rest if needed
- Special precautions are advised for children under 2, pregnant individuals, and those in poor health; however, short stays at high altitudes are generally manageable
Where to Stay
If you only visit for the day, staying in Interlaken, Unterseen or even Thun makes sense. Should the weather not cooperate you will have easy and quick access to other sightseeing options.
If you want to stay for a few days or longer to explore more than just the Jungfraujoch and do some hiking, then one of the following options could be right for you:
- Wilderswil: All of the Bernese Oberland is practically at your doorstep. Starting point for Schynige Platte, Isenfluh and the whole Jungfrau Region;
- Grindelwald: When Grindelwald First, Grosse and Kleine Scheidegg and Männlichen are on your itinerary, this charming chalet village could be your base. Ideal for skiing too;
- Lauterbrunnen is ideal to explore the valley of over 70 waterfalls, the Schilthorn/Mürren/Gimmelwald area and easy access to Wengen and the Jungfraujoch;
- Wengen (car-free) is ideal for sun worshipers; easy access to Männlichen, Wengern Alp, and Jungfraujoch. Fabulous winter and summer activities;
- Mürren and Gimmelwald (both car-free) at the foot of the Schilthorn for best views to Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Easy access to the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Great hiking and skiing.
Depending on what you are looking for – hotel, private rooms or apartments – this booking guide will help you find accommodation.
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Final Thoughts about Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch, is an unforgettable destination that offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience in the heart of the Swiss Alps. While the journey may be costly, the remarkable experience of reaching the highest train station in Europe and witnessing the breathtaking natural beauty of the region is truly priceless. From the impressive Ice Palace and the awe-inspiring Aletsch Glacier to the exhilarating Snow Fun Park and picturesque hiking trails, Jungfraujoch has something for everyone.
As you plan your visit, be sure to consider the various travel routes, weather conditions, and necessary precautions to ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip to Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe.
