Introducing Jungfraujoch
The Jungfrau is a famous Swiss mountain, rising 4,158 meters (13,642 feet) above sea level. Overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley, it lies 18 kilometers southeast of Interlaken. This scenic mountain separates the cantons of Bern and Valais and forms part of the Bernese Alps. Known as the "Queen of the Alps," the Jungfrau is one of the highest peaks in the Alps.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable all year round
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended play time: 1 day
Tickets
Hiking is free, but taking the train is charged.
The round-trip train ticket is 197.6 Swiss francs for adults, 98.8 Swiss francs for children aged 6-16, and 148.4 Swiss francs for passengers holding a European Rail Pass. The above prices include the return trip.
Attraction opening hours
Jungfraujoch is often closed due to weather conditions, and you usually won't know whether it's open until the morning of the day.
Train times going up the mountain:
Off-season: The uphill train runs every hour from 7:05 to 14:05, except for the first train at 6:35. The downhill train runs every hour from 9:30 to 15:30, with the last train at 16:40.
Peak tourist season:
The train times for going up the mountain are as follows: 6:35 7:05 7:35 8:05 8:35 9:05 9:35 10:05 10:35 11:05 11:35 12:05 13:05 14:05.
The train schedule for the descent is as follows: 9:00 9:30 10:00 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:40 17:45
Note: The train journey up the mountain takes 2 hours and 17 minutes, and the train journey down the mountain takes 2 hours and 24 minutes
Most Popular FAQs for Jungfraujoch
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Jungfraujoch is a high-altitude mountain pass in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland, at 3,454 meters. It became accessible by the Jungfrau Railway in 1912, allowing tourists to experience the Alps’ summit. It’s known as the “Top of Europe” and is significant for its glaciers, alpine research, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located between the peaks of Jungfrau and Mönch in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland.
- Reachable by train from Interlaken Ost via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg, then by the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch.
- No direct road access; walking from the base is not feasible.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- The railway and attractions are generally open daily, from early morning to late afternoon (around 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, depending on season).
- Best visiting times are late spring to early autumn (May–September) for milder weather, or winter for snow activities.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Round-trip train tickets from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch start around CHF 120–200, depending on discounts and classes.
- Tickets can be purchased online through the Jungfrau Railways website or at train stations.
- Discount passes (Swiss Travel Pass, Half Fare Card) may reduce costs.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season. Booking 2–4 weeks in advance is recommended to secure preferred travel times.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
3–5 hours are recommended to enjoy the train journey, viewpoints, Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and glacier activities.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Sphinx Observatory
- Ice Palace
- Aletsch Glacier viewing platform
- Alpine Sensation exhibition
- Snow fun area and outdoor terraces
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available, often in English, German, and French. Some exhibitions include audio guides or multilingual information panels.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Sphinx Observatory terrace overlooking the Aletsch Glacier
- Glacier Plateau for wide-angle alpine shots
- Outdoor terraces near the Ice Palace
- Train windows along the route for panoramic views
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Take the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch, start at the Sphinx Observatory, explore the Ice Palace, visit Alpine Sensation, walk on the glacier plateau, and finish with lunch or coffee at a panoramic restaurant.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night visits are not typical due to limited train schedules.
- Seasonal or special guided tours (e.g., snowshoeing or photography tours) may be offered.
- Indoor exhibitions sometimes feature multimedia presentations on alpine history and glaciers.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Peak crowds occur midday and during summer holidays. Early morning weekdays are least crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Restaurants and cafes with panoramic views
- Restrooms throughout the station and viewing areas
- Gift shops selling souvenirs and alpine goods
- Indoor seating and small resting areas
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Accessible via elevator to main attractions. Elderly and children can visit, but be cautious of altitude and cold weather. Wheelchair access is mostly available, though outdoor glacier areas may be challenging.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, shops, and ticket counters. Some smaller stalls may prefer cash.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Restaurant Crystal (panoramic views)
- Bollywood Self-Service Restaurant
- Snack bars at station and terrace areas
- Cafes and restaurants in Kleine Scheidegg before ascending
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are generally available; vegan options are limited. Halal options are minimal and may require prior inquiry.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Kleine Scheidegg hotels (Hotel Bellevue, Hotel Eiger)
- Wengen and Grindelwald lodges and guesthouses
- Interlaken hotels for base accommodations
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Grindelwald and Wengen villages
- Schynige Platte railway for alpine gardens
- Lake Thun and Lake Brienz excursions
- First Cliff Walk in Grindelwald
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Swiss watches, chocolates, and local alpine crafts
- Clothing and gear for snow sports
- Postcards, magnets, and miniature models of Jungfraujoch
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Return train via Jungfrau Railway to Kleine Scheidegg, then onward to Interlaken
- Car rentals from Interlaken for surrounding regions
- Buses or taxis connecting to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, or Wengen
