Jungfraujoch | Interlaken

Jungfraujoch, often referred to as the "Top of Europe," is one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in the Swiss Alps. Situated at an altitude of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level, it is the highest railway station in Europe and offers stunning views of some of the most famous mountains in Switzerland, including Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger.

Location and Access

Jungfraujoch is located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, between the peaks of Jungfrau and Mönch, and is accessible by the Jungfrau Railway. The journey to Jungfraujoch is an unforgettable experience in itself, passing through lush valleys, alpine meadows, and scenic mountain villages before reaching the highest point of the train route. The train travels from Kleine Scheidegg, which is accessible via the Bernese Oberland Railway from Grindelwald or Wengen, and takes visitors through tunnels and across the mountainside to reach the summit.

Key Features of Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch Railway Station

• The Jungfraujoch railway station is located at the heart of the Jungfrau massif, making it the highest point that can be reached by a public train in Europe. The station is housed in a modern building, and from there, visitors can access several key attractions, including observation platforms, ice sculptures, and the Ice Palace.

Observation Platforms and Views

• One of the main highlights of visiting Jungfraujoch is the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and valleys. From the Sphinx Observatory, which is located a short walk from the train station, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding Alps. The view includes the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, as well as Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger.
• The Sphinx Observatory is located at an altitude of 3,571 meters (11,716 feet) and is the highest observatory in Europe. The viewing platforms are equipped with telescopes for an even closer look at the stunning scenery.

Aletsch Glacier

• The Aletsch Glacier is one of the most remarkable features of Jungfraujoch. Spanning about 23 kilometers (14 miles), it is the largest glacier in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the glacier and even walk on the glacier itself, offering a unique chance to experience this vast frozen landscape up close.

Ice Palace

• Inside Jungfraujoch, there is an Ice Palace, a spectacular ice cave carved into the glacier. The Ice Palace features intricate ice sculptures, including animals, figures, and abstract designs, all created from the glacier ice itself. It’s an enchanting experience, and visitors can walk through the frozen passageways and marvel at the artistry of the sculptures.

Snow Fun Park

• For those visiting in the winter months, the Snow Fun Park offers a variety of activities, such as snow tubing, sledging, and snowboarding. Visitors can enjoy the snow and ice in a playful and adventurous way while surrounded by the incredible mountain scenery.

Restaurants and Facilities

• Jungfraujoch has several restaurants and cafés where visitors can enjoy a meal or a hot drink while taking in the views. The Top of Europe Restaurant offers Swiss specialties and international cuisine, and there are also places to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. In addition, visitors can purchase souvenirs and other goods at the shops located near the train station.

Jungfrau Panorama Cinema

• The Jungfrau Panorama Cinema at Jungfraujoch offers a multi-sensory experience through a film that showcases the beauty of the Alps, the history of the Jungfrau region, and the journey to Jungfraujoch itself. The cinema provides an engaging way to learn more about the area and its natural wonders.

Hiking and Alpine Activities

• Although the primary access to Jungfraujoch is by train, there are also hiking trails for those who prefer a more adventurous approach to reaching the summit. One of the most popular hikes is the Eiger Trail, which offers spectacular views of the Eiger North Face. In summer, the area is ideal for hiking and mountain biking, with trails suitable for various skill levels.
• For mountaineering enthusiasts, Jungfraujoch is an excellent base for alpine activities, including climbing expeditions to the surrounding peaks.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to September): The summer months are the best time to visit Jungfraujoch if you want to enjoy hiking, glacier walks, and outdoor activities. The weather is usually clear, and the views are at their best.

Winter (December to March): Winter transforms Jungfraujoch into a snow-covered wonderland. The Snow Fun Park is particularly popular during this time, and the ice and snow make for a magical experience. However, visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures, as it can be freezing at this altitude.

Accessibility

Jungfraujoch is accessible by the Jungfrau Railway, which is part of the Berner Oberland Railway network. The train ride from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch is a scenic journey that passes through tunnels and across high-altitude bridges, providing incredible views of the Alps.

• Kleine Scheidegg can be reached by train from Grindelwald or Wengen, two popular Swiss mountain resorts.
• The journey from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch takes about 30 minutes, and along the way, the train makes stops at various viewpoints.

Practical Tips

Altitude: Jungfraujoch is located at a very high altitude, so visitors should be mindful of the potential for altitude sickness, especially if they are not accustomed to high elevations. It is a good idea to take it easy for the first few hours and drink plenty of water.

Clothing: Even in summer, the temperature at Jungfraujoch can be below freezing, so visitors should wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes, particularly if they plan on spending time outdoors in the snow.

Tickets: Tickets to Jungfraujoch are available for purchase from the Jungfrau Railways and can be quite expensive. It’s a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Discount passes, such as the Swiss Travel Pass or Jungfrau Travel Pass, may offer savings for travelers who plan to visit multiple destinations in the region.

Conclusion

Jungfraujoch is a truly unforgettable destination for anyone traveling to Switzerland, offering an extraordinary combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and exhilarating alpine activities. Whether you are visiting to take in the views, explore the Ice Palace, experience the snow in the fun park, or simply marvel at the scale and majesty of the Swiss Alps, Jungfraujoch provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with lasting memories.