How to Visit Jungfraujoch – Best Things to Do at the Top of Europe

Welcome to Jungfraujoch, famously known as the Top of Europe—a place where snowy dreams meet alpine grandeur. Perched at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level between the mighty Jungfrau and Mönch peaks, Jungfraujoch is home to the highest railway station in Europe, year-round snow, and surreal glacier views.
 

Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, Jungfraujoch offers one of the most iconic and unforgettable experiences in the Swiss Alps.

🏔️ Quick Facts about Jungfraujoch

Elevation: 3,454 meters (11,332 feet)

Location: Bernese Alps, between Jungfrau and Mönch mountains

Famous for: Highest railway in Europe, Aletsch Glacier, Ice Palace

Access from: Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen

Best for: Scenic train ride, alpine adventure, panoramic photography

🚞 Getting to Jungfraujoch

🚂 How to Reach the Top of Europe

To reach Jungfraujoch, travelers typically take the Jungfrau Railway, which tunnels through the Eiger and ascends to the Jungfraujoch station.

Route Options (both routes merge at Kleine Scheidegg):

Interlaken → Grindelwald Terminal → Eiger Express → Eigergletscher → Jungfraujoch (fastest & most scenic)

Interlaken → Lauterbrunnen → Wengen → Kleine Scheidegg → Jungfraujoch

💡 Tip: The new Eiger Express gondola from Grindelwald reduces travel time and offers jaw-dropping views of the Eiger north face.

Travel Time: ~1.5 to 2.5 hours each way
Best Time to Go: Early morning (fewer crowds, clearer skies)

🌟 Top Attractions at Jungfraujoch

❄️ 1. The Sphinx Observatory

An elevator whisks you up to one of the highest observatories in the world. The panoramic viewing deck offers 360° vistas over the Aletsch Glacier, snow-covered peaks, and even into Italy and France on a clear day.

Great for photos, especially early or late in the day

Windy – dress warmly even in summer!

🧊 2. Ice Palace

Step into a surreal world of ice tunnels and sculptures carved into the heart of the glacier. Walking through the shimmering corridors, you’ll find bears, eagles, and other creatures frozen in time.

Slippery floors – wear appropriate shoes

A highlight for kids and photographers

❄️ 3. Aletsch Glacier Plateau

As Europe’s longest glacier (about 23 km), the Aletsch Glacier is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Jungfraujoch, you can walk onto the snowy plateau and marvel at this icy giant.

Perfect for snow play and short hikes

Open year-round

⛷️ 4. Snow Fun Park (Summer Only)

Available from May to October, the Snow Fun Park offers sledding, skiing, snow tubing, and zip-lining — all at over 3,400 meters altitude.

Equipment rental available onsite

Great for families and active travelers

🏔️ 5. Alpine Sensation

This multimedia tunnel connects the Sphinx Hall and Ice Palace and celebrates the history and builders of the Jungfrau Railway. It features moving exhibits, lights, and historical photographs.

Emotional tribute to Swiss engineering

Cool in both meanings!

🛍️ 6. Top of Europe Shops & Restaurants

Yes, even at the top of a glacier, you’ll find Swiss chocolate shops, souvenir stores, and alpine restaurants with a view!

Sample Swiss hot chocolate at 3,454m

Buy Jungfraujoch-exclusive souvenirs

🧭 What to Do Around Jungfraujoch

🚡 1. Grindelwald First

Before or after Jungfraujoch, explore Grindelwald First for hiking, zip-lining, and the stunning First Cliff Walk.

🚞 2. Kleine Scheidegg

This mountain pass is a hub for hikers and photographers. Enjoy scenic trails and up-close views of the Eiger’s north face.

🥾 3. Eiger Trail

An adventurous hike for experienced trekkers. Follow the base of the Eiger for one of the most dramatic alpine trails in the region.

📸 Best Photo Spots

📍 Sphinx Observatory Deck

📍 Snow plateau with Aletsch Glacier in the background

📍 Tunnel exit with panoramic glacier views

📍 Ice Palace illuminated sculptures

📍 Eiger Express gondola ride

🧥 What to Pack for Jungfraujoch

Even in summer, temperatures can be below freezing at the top. Pack accordingly:

Warm jacket, gloves, hat

Sunglasses & sunscreen (snow glare is intense)

Sturdy walking shoes or boots

Camera with zoom lens or smartphone

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Jungfraujoch

💡 Tip: Always check the weather before you go — visibility can change quickly.

🧳 Sample 1-Day Itinerary to Jungfraujoch

🚉 Morning

Depart Interlaken or Grindelwald early

Take the Eiger Express and arrive at Jungfraujoch before 10:00 AM

🏔️ Late Morning

Visit the Sphinx Observatory and Glacier Plateau

Explore the Ice Palace and Alpine Sensation

🍴 Lunch

Enjoy a meal at Top of Europe Restaurant with a view

🎿 Afternoon

Play in the Snow Fun Park (summer) or take photos of Aletsch Glacier

Return to Interlaken with scenic train or gondola ride

🍽️ Where to Eat Near Jungfraujoch

While there are limited options at the top, you’ll find great spots in nearby towns:

Top of Europe Restaurant – Swiss classics with glacier views

Restaurant Eigergletscher – Modern cuisine at transfer station

Grindelwald – Try fondue or rösti in alpine chalets

Wengen – Car-free village with cozy restaurants

🏨 Where to Stay for a Jungfraujoch Visit

🛌 Interlaken

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – Luxury stay

Hotel Interlaken – Great mix of comfort and location

Alplodge – Budget-friendly with great views

🏔️ Grindelwald

Hotel Eiger – Mid-range with mountain views

Bergwelt Grindelwald – Design hotel for couples and adventurers

🚞 Lauterbrunnen or Wengen

Ideal for those seeking charming, car-free mountain villages

🎉 Events Near Jungfraujoch

Lauberhorn Ski Race (Wengen) – January

Grindelwald Snow Festival – January

Eiger Ultra Trail – July

Alphorn Festival – Summer weekends in the region

🧠 Fascinating Facts about Jungfraujoch

Construction of the Jungfrau Railway began in 1896 and was completed in 1912.

The tunnel through the Eiger was a remarkable feat of engineering.

Jungfraujoch is part of the UNESCO Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area.

The Sphinx Observatory supports scientific research in meteorology and astronomy.

✅ Final Travel Tips

Book train tickets in advance, especially in peak summer

Use the Swiss Travel Pass or Jungfrau Travel Pass for discounts

Arrive early to avoid crowds and cloud cover

Take it slow—altitude sickness can affect some visitors

Bring snacks and water—prices at the top are premium

✨ Final Thoughts: Jungfraujoch is a Bucket List Destination

Visiting Jungfraujoch isn’t just a train ride—it’s a journey to the clouds. From stepping onto Europe’s highest railway platform to standing before a vast glacier, every moment is awe-inspiring. Whether you're there for adventure, sightseeing, or photography, Jungfraujoch guarantees one of the most unforgettable experiences in Switzerland.

So pack your warmest clothes and camera—your alpine adventure to the Top of Europe awaits!