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The Jungfrau Railway, located in the Swiss canton of Bern, was built for tourists seeking to reach the summit of the Jungfraujoch. The railway, which opened in 1912, uses a Strub cog railway and runs for approximately 7 kilometers, with a maximum gradient of 25%. Approximately three-quarters of the route passes through tunnels beneath glaciers, forming a rock face. The train stops in the tunnel, and the journey takes approximately 50 minutes. During the brief pause, visitors can touch the bare rock walls of the tunnel to experience the arduous construction process. The train terminates at Jungfraujoch Station, Europe's highest railway station, at 3,454 meters.
Plateau mountain climate, suitable for all seasons
Jungfraujoch, 1 day
Round trip train ticket for adults: CHF 215
Children CHF 15
All day
The Jungfrau Railway, opened in 1912, is one of the highest cogwheel railways in the world, providing access to the Jungfraujoch, which is the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet). It offers a unique and historical way to reach the "Top of Europe," where visitors can experience stunning views, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks.
The Jungfrau Railway departs from Kleine Scheidegg, which can be accessed by train from either Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. From Kleine Scheidegg, the cogwheel train takes visitors up to the Jungfraujoch. The journey involves scenic views and several stops along the way.
The Jungfrau Railway operates year-round, though it's important to check the specific schedule, as it may vary due to weather conditions. The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is warmer, and the views are clearer, although winter offers a different charm with snow-covered landscapes.
Ticket prices vary depending on the route taken. The round trip from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch costs approximately CHF 100-150, with discounts available for Swiss Travel Pass holders. Tickets can be purchased at train stations or online in advance.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer months). Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient, but for popular times like weekends or holidays, booking further in advance may be necessary.
You should plan for at least 4-5 hours to fully experience the Jungfrau Railway, including the train ride, visits to the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observation Deck, and some time for hiking or relaxing at the top. A full day trip is recommended for a more leisurely experience.
Guided tours are available at Jungfraujoch, and audio guides can be found for self-guided exploration. Audio guides are available in several languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish.
A recommended itinerary is to take the train to Jungfraujoch, then visit the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observation Deck. Afterward, take some time to explore the plateau or hike along the Eiger Trail. If time permits, you can also enjoy some snow activities or visit nearby attractions in the region.
Night visits are not available as the Jungfraujoch is primarily a daytime attraction. However, special tours and events, such as sunrise or sunset excursions, may be available during certain seasons. It's best to check with the official website for any special events.
The Jungfraujoch can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, particularly in July and August. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon, especially during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn.
At Jungfraujoch, there are toilets, restaurants, cafés, and shops. You can buy souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. The restaurants offer both Swiss and international cuisine with a view of the surrounding mountains.
The Jungfrau Railway is wheelchair accessible, and there are facilities for elderly and disabled visitors. The train ride itself is comfortable and suitable for children as well. However, some trails may have uneven terrain and may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at the Jungfrau Railway and Jungfraujoch. It's still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or at remote locations.
Many restaurants in the area, including the ones at Jungfraujoch, offer vegetarian options, and some may have vegan and halal choices. It's advisable to check menus in advance or ask the staff for specific dietary needs.
There are souvenir shops at Jungfraujoch offering Swiss-themed items such as chocolates, watches, and souvenirs with alpine motifs. You can also find unique ice sculptures and local handicrafts.
After visiting the Jungfraujoch, you can continue your trip by taking the train to nearby destinations such as Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, or Interlaken. Trains are frequent and offer scenic routes back down the mountain.
