Jungfrau is a popular destination in Switzerland, known for Jungfraujoch, a train station located at 3,454 meters above sea level on the mountain. Here, we provide essential tips to help you reach the famous “Top of Europe.”
Jungfrau, known as “Vale da Donzela” in German, is located in the Berne Alps region of Switzerland, part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau – Aletsch area. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jungfrau is the tallest peak among the well-known trio of mountains that includes Eiger and Mönch, making it a highly attractive destination in Switzerland.
Jungfrau provides a variety of adventure opportunities, including a panoramic observatory, skiing and snowboarding areas, and an ice palace in a magical winter setting. Check out our post for useful tips on visiting this famous destination at the top of Europe. Enjoy reading! 😉️
In this article you will find:
- How to reach Jungfrau.
- When is the best time to visit Jungfrau?
- Jungfrau’s Points of Interest
- Tickets for Jungfrau excursion
- Where can I find accommodations close to Jungfrau?
- Jungfrau dining establishments
- Preparing for a climbing expedition
- History and interesting facts about Jungfrau
- View additional suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
How to reach Jungfrau
The most cost-effective and popular method of reaching Jungfrau is by train, departing from Interlaken Ost station. Traveling by train in Switzerland is not only convenient but also offers some of the most stunning scenery in the country. Alternatively, it is also feasible to access the renowned “Top of Europe” by car or through a private tour.
The city of Interlaken can be reached by train from major cities and airports in the country, as well as from some European destinations. If you’re traveling by car, roads also connect to Switzerland’s cities and airports, as well as major European cities.
Before ascending Jungfrau by train, I explored Interlaken for an afternoon. I highly recommend taking a Free Walking Tour of the city, which was a delightful experience that included sampling various cheeses and chocolates.
We will provide detailed information on the most convenient methods to reach Jungfrau.
By rail
Travelers heading to the Jungfrau by train begin their journey at Interlaken Ost station, where they can board the Bernese Oberland Railway, offering two route choices via either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.
Both trains depart for Kleine Scheidegg station, offering stunning alpine landscapes. Afterward, the Jungfraubahn takes you to the final stop at Jungfrau Railway, where you can reach the top of Europe, Jungfraujoch. In total, the journey involves taking three trains and lasts just over 2 hours.
Swiss Travel Pass – A pass for traveling in Switzerland.
The Swiss Travel Pass provides unlimited access to the Swiss public transport system, including trains, buses, and boats, as well as discounts on attractions in Switzerland for three to 15 days, making it perfect for travelers seeking economic and independent travel options.
A convenient method to purchase the pass is via the Swiss Federal Railways website for €260, or you can also buy it at train stations or through Civitatis with the price converted to Brazilian currency.
Jungfrau Travel Pass – Pass for Jungfrau region travel
The Jungfrau Travel Pass is a recommended method to reach Jungfrau by train, providing access to multiple attractions in the region for a duration of three to eight days. This pass permits unlimited train travel across various lines in the area, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness for your trip.
The Jungfrau Travel Pass can be purchased online, at train stations, or through Civitatis, which offers the pass in Brazilian currency. After buying the pass, you must activate it at a local train station. You have the option to select from various routes and schedules to suit your travel pace.
The pass costs € 223 per person for the shortest duration, but the price increases to € 351 for a full eight days.
Route using Interlaken-Lauterbrunnen.
The train journey from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen lasts around thirty minutes and offers views of a picturesque village with waterfalls and lush valleys. Upon reaching Lauterbrunnen station, travelers should board the Wengernalpbahn (WAB) train heading to Kleine Scheidegg. It is recommended to sit on the right side of the train to enjoy the sight of the snow-capped mountains.
I visited Lauterbrunnen and then took a train from one of the two stations to connect to the Wengernalpbahn Railway.
Route through Interlaken-Grindelwald
The Interlaken-Grindelwald route is slightly quicker than Lauterbrunnen and connects to the train going to Kleine Scheidegg, offering stunning views of the northern side of the Eiger. For the best views of the mountain, it is recommended to sit on the left side.
A faster route to reach Jungfraujoch from Grindelwald Terminal is to take the Eiger Express, a modern cable car that reaches Eigergletscher station in 15 minutes. From there, you can transfer to the Jungfraubahn to reach Jungfraujoch, offering not just speed but also a breathtaking view of the northern face of Eiger.
Driving a vehicle
The most convenient way to reach Jungfrau when traveling by car is to park in Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, or Grindelwald and then take the train towards Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch. 😉
How to travel from Bern to Jungfrau
When departing from Bern, head to Bern Hauptbahnhof station and board the train bound for Interlaken Ost. Tickets can be purchased online or at the terminal ticket office. The journey to Interlaken typically takes around 45 minutes. Upon arrival, switch to the Jungfraujoch-bound trains as previously mentioned.
When is the best time to visit Jungfrau?
The ideal time to visit Jungfrau varies depending on your planned activities. Winter, from January to March, offers cold weather reaching as low as -15°C, creating a snowy wonderland perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
During spring, from April to May, there are fewer travelers compared to the summer season (June to August), which sees an influx of tourists due to school vacations. Spring offers the advantage of shorter queues and lower prices for accommodation and activities.
In Jungfrau, there is snow all year round, even in the summer. So you can always see snow whenever you visit, regardless of the season.
Reaching the summit of Jungfrau is a dream come true for many, and I was fortunate enough to have that chance.
Climate – the long-term patterns of temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation in an area.
The Jungfrau region has a frigid climate because of its high elevation. Weather can shift rapidly, bringing snow, high winds, and low humidity. Even in summer, temperatures often drop below zero, with an average of -7°C. The area also experiences strong solar radiation, making it essential to wear sunglasses and sunscreen.
Jungfrau’s Points of Interest
Top of Europe provides a range of attractions catering to different preferences, including the Sphinx Observatory, the Ice Palace, and skiing and snowboarding areas. Adjacent to Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe.
We have compiled a list of the primary things to do and see in Jungfrau. Explore these options to prepare for your memorable journey to Switzerland.
- Secure your Jungfraujoch ticket along with access to the Sphinx, Alpine Station Glacier Aletsch, and Ice Palace attractions.
Jungfraujoch – Awe-inspiring experience in the Alps
Jungfraujoch, situated at an altitude of 3,454 meters, is the highest railway station in Europe and is widely regarded as Switzerland’s top tourist destination.
Upon reaching Jungfraujoch, visitors can explore the Alpine Sensation zone, which provides insights into the history of the station. Through a guided tour led by a mat, visitors are surrounded by images, music, and lights, offering a closer connection to the station’s story and the individuals it commemorates.
Traveling through time allows you to witness the challenging and perilous process of constructing this station.
One option for exploring Jungfraujoch is to book a tour through Civitatis, which provides transportation, train tickets, the Eiger Express cable car, guides in Spanish and English, as well as entry to various attractions like the Sphinx viewpoint, Ice Palace, Aletsch Glacier, and Alpine Sensation.
- Explore Jungfraujoch and other sights on a guided tour offering excellent value for your money.
Sphinx Observatory – A building called Sphinx Observatory
In the same building as the Alpine Sensation in Jungfrau, there are other activities available, with the most popular being the Sphinx observatory, an elevator that ascends to 117 meters above the station.
On the way to Sphinx, you go through a room with 360-degree video projections of the area, providing a sneak peek of what awaits you when you reach the top. The observatory provides extensive views of the mountains from both its outdoor terrace and interior.
“You truly experience firsthand the significance of it all.”
- Ensure your trip to the Sphinx Observatory by taking a essential excursion to Jungfraujoch.
Ice Castle
chsyys/iStock
The Ice Palace is situated inside the largest glacier in Europe, Aletsch, and was built in 1930 by mountain guides. It contains ice sculptures depicting animals, people, and objects that tell the glacier’s story, as well as an ice bar.
Inside the building, there are five restaurants offering stunning views of the Alps, as well as various shops and the renowned Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven where you can learn about the history and production of chocolate.
On the exterior, you have the opportunity to engage in snow activities and appreciate the scenery, including the impressive Grosser Aletsch Glacier. Skiing and snowboarding are available options, but they are not part of the ticket or travel package.
- Explore the stunning Ice Palace during a tour of Jungfraujoch.
Mönchsjoch Hut
The Mönchsjoch Cabin, also known as Mönchsjochhütte, is a mountain shelter situated in the Bernese Alps. It can be reached by a 45-minute snow walk, offering stunning icy scenery at an altitude of 3,650 meters.
The path to the Mönchsjoch Cabana should be started early to fully appreciate it. It’s important to have suitable gear for the activity, such as snow boots, a warm jacket, gloves, a scarf, and a hat. You can find these snowwear items with our special discount coupon for Columbia Sportswear.
Snow Fun Park
Snow Fun Park in Jungfrau provides a range of winter sports options suitable for all age groups and offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The activities available include ziplining, sledding, skiing, and snowboarding, with tickets for park attractions available for purchase separately on-site, priced between €16 and €38.
Snow Fun Park operates from mid-May to October, with the possibility of temporary closures due to inclement weather conditions. Visitors should pay attention to any warnings before their trip.
Skiing and snowboarding are activities commonly enjoyed in snowy conditions.
The Jungfrau area has multiple ski and snowboarding resorts, each with their own unique features and levels of difficulty. Besides the Snow Fun Park on Jungfrau mountain, popular activity hubs include Grindelwald, Wengen, Mürren, and Kleine Scheidegg.
You can rent skis, boots, and other gear if you don’t have your own equipment. An efficient option is to purchase the Jungfrau Ski Pass, which provides access for skiing and snowboarding for up to 14 days starting at €84.
If you are new to winter sports and lack knowledge of them, taking a ski lesson in Jungfrau with expert instructors is a wise choice. The lesson, which includes the required skiing gear, lasts around two and a half hours. There are two booking options available, each with meeting points in Zurich and Lucerne.
- Enroll in a ski lesson in the Jungfrau area at an affordable rate.
Tickets for Jungfraujoch access
Tickets for exploring the Jungfrau region can be pricey, particularly when factoring in airfare, meals, and accommodation. However, with proper financial planning, this trip is achievable. Purchasing a train pass can help save money on transportation costs.
The Jungfrau Travel Pass offers unrestricted travel for three to eight days in the Jungfrau region, along with access to Thun and Brienz lakes. For adults, the starting cost is €330, which is reduced to €175 if you possess the Swiss Travel Pass.
If you have the means, it’s worth spending the money for a unique and valuable experience that you don’t get every day.
Civitatis offers the Jungfrau Travel Pass priced in Brazilian reals starting from R$ 1,445. However, the pass can only be bought for a maximum of seven days on the platform.
A convenient alternative is to book a day tour to Jungfraujoch, offered by Civitatis, which includes benefits like transport, guides in English and Spanish, and access to attractions starting at R$1,823. Meals are not included.
Accommodation options close to Jungfrau
Staying in Interlaken is recommended for visiting the Jungfrau in Switzerland, with the most favorable accommodations found in the central area as well as in Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald districts.
In Interlaken’s center, there is a well-preserved historic area with old buildings, accommodations, stores, and dining options, conveniently located near important train stations like Interlaken Ost.
Staying in the districts of Lauterbrunnen and Grindewald offers the benefit of being close to their railway connections, which are needed to access the Jungfrau.
Don’t have the patience to search for accommodations at Jungfrau? To make it easier for you, we have listed the top-rated places to stay in different categories. Find the perfect option for you.
| Cheaper: Chalet Hostel | Note: 9.1 | € 83 / day |
| Honeymoon: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa | Note: 9.2 | €700 / day |
| Families: Swiss Inn & Apartments | Note: 9.3 | € 179 / day |
| Centre: Stella Swiss Quality Hotel | Note: 8.5 | € 215 / day |
| Interlaken Ost: Hotel Interlaken | Note: 8.8 | € 220 / day |
| Lauterbrunnen: Hotel Staubbach | Note: 9.2 | € 173 / day |
| Grindelwald: Jungfrau Lodge, Swiss Mountain Hotel | Note: 8.3 | € 184/ day |
Discover the top deals for lodging options in Jungfrau.
Restaurants located in Jungfrau.
Jungfrau provides four different dining establishments catering to various preferences. The Crystal presents a refined atmosphere and offers à la carte dining with breathtaking views of the Alps. Aletsch and Bollywood are self-service restaurants, with the latter specializing in Indian cuisine. For a relaxed lounge experience, guests can visit the Pikantus Lounge by Erdinger.
Besides the dining establishments at the Jungfrau building, there are also excellent dining choices available in Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Grindelwald. Explore more at:
- Crystal Restaurant (Jungfrau)
- Aletsch Restaurant located in Jungfrau.
- Bollywood Restaurant in Jungfrau
- Pikantus Lounge by Erdinger in Jungfrau.
- Luegibrueggli Restaurant in Interlaken
- Barry’s Restaurant, Bar & Lounge in Grindelwald.
- Restaurant 1903 in Wengen.
- Weidstübli Restaurant located in Lauterbrunnen.
Preparing for climbing.
Jungfrau is a snow-covered region where it is essential to wear appropriate clothing and accessories to stay warm in temperatures below 0°C. Here is a list of essential items to bring to Jungfrau.
- Thermal pants and jackets, snow-appropriate closed-toe shoes, gloves, hat, and scarf.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential to shield against the sun’s glare.
- Lip balm used to avoid lips becoming dry.
- Flashlights required for a full day of travel.
- Use a camera or a mobile device to capture this thrilling experience forever.
You can also view a more comprehensive selection of snow gear in our exclusive content and secure a fantastic discount coupon from Columbia Sportswear.
Information and interesting facts about Jungfrau’s history
chsyys/UnPlash
The Jungfrau project initiated with Swiss businessman Adolf Guyer Zeller’s plan to construct a tunnel to the mountain peak in 1893. Originally intending to include seven stations within the tunnel, progress was impeded by various factors, including hazardous working conditions (extreme cold and high altitude) leading to accidents and fatalities. The most significant setback occurred with the accidental explosion of 30 tons of dynamite.
The route to one of the highest astronomical observatories in the world, Sphinx, was completed after 16 years of challenges and construction. The Jungfrau Railway station, which includes Sphinx, opened to tourists on August 1, 1912, and is now recognized as one of the most remarkable stations in history.
The Jungfrau mountain is 4.158 meters above sea level, with its companions Mönch and Eiger standing at 4.107 meters and 3.970 meters respectively.
Explore additional suggestions.
The tips keep coming! Here is a list of detailed posts to help you plan your trip.
- Activities to engage in while in Switzerland
- How to journey by train in Switzerland
- Swiss tours
- Hotel Alpenblick located in Bern
- Hotel Krebs Interlaken
- Hotels in Interlaken
- Hotels in Lucerne
- Geneva accommodations
- Zurich accommodations
- B2 Boutique Hotel + Spa located in Zurich
- Tralala Hotel Montreux
- Europe – the continent of Europe
Have a secure journey to Switzerland
A safe journey to Switzerland is necessary to visit the country under the Schengen Treaty, which mandates travelers to have medical coverage of € 30 thousand. Insurance is compulsory and also beneficial for a hassle-free trip.
Chip for Switzerland on Mobile devices
Purchase a Swiss mobile chip or eSim for Switzerland to stay connected while in the country at a great price. Explore the offers from America Chip for discounted unlimited internet. – VIEW PRICES
Tours and tickets available for purchase in Switzerland.
Plan your trips in Switzerland ahead to avoid waiting in ticket queues by booking through Civitatis from the comfort of your home. Secure your spot on top tours and pay in installments with no additional fees. Check out the prices now.
Flights heading to Switzerland
Do you wish to secure a flight to Switzerland at highly competitive prices? We utilize the Promo Go platform to discover the most reliable flight options available. Be sure to monitor the daily promotions to find savings on your booking!
Switzerland car rental
You can book a car online to Switzerland and pick it up upon arrival to start your journey. Take advantage of RentCars’ offers to find the best option for you through the rental platform. Check out the prices.
Frequently Asked Queries
If you haven’t found the information you require, refer to the brief Q&A section addressing our readers’ common queries.
The Jungfrau can be found in the Bernese Alps area in Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, approximately a two-hour drive from Interlaken. It is one of the well-known mountain threesome alongside Eiger and Mönch.
Tickets for Jungfrau can be purchased on Civitatis, which offers the Jungfrau Travel Pass and a Jungfraujoch tour that includes transportation, a guide, attractions, as well as train and cable car tickets in a single package.
A full-day excursion to explore the key sights of Jungfraujoch, including the Sphinx Observatory, Ice Palace, Aletsch Glacier, and Alpine Sensation.
To travel from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch, you need to go to Interlaken Ost station and select either the Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald route to Kleine Scheidegg. From there, board the Jungfraubhan train that goes to the last stop of Jungfrau Railway, ultimately reaching Jungfraujoch.
The Jungfraujoch tour is definitely worthwhile due to being a distinctive experience in Switzerland. Known as the “Top of Europe,” Jungfrau features various attractions like the Sphinx Observatory, the Ice Palace, the Aletsch Glacier, and the Alpine Sensation. Weather permitting, visitors can even engage in skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing.
The cost of reaching the Top of Europe varies depending on your departure location. From Interlaken Ost station, the average price is around €240. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass and are already traveling in Switzerland, you can benefit from discounted tickets at Jungfrau. Otherwise, it is advisable to purchase a Jungfrau Travel Pass to save on ticket prices.
Brazilian citizens can travel to Switzerland as tourists without needing a visa and can stay for up to 90 days.
Brazilian citizens visiting Switzerland need the ETIAS authorization, which can be found on the official website for more details.
