NL
A journey on the Jungfraujoch Railway is an expedition to the roof of the continent. The trip ends at the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 metres. This journey through the Swiss Alps is a showcase of engineering and offers views you will not find anywhere else. Find out how to plan this unforgettable trip yourself.
What is the Jungfraujoch Railway?
The Jungfraujoch Railway, also known as the Jungfraubahn, is a 9.3-kilometre cogwheel railway that takes travellers on a vertical climb through the solid rock of the Eiger and Mönch mountains. The construction, which took 16 years and was completed in 1912, was an impressive achievement. The terminus of the line is Jungfraujoch, a station known as the “Top of Europe”. It is located in the heart of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site, an area of glaciers and high Alpine peaks. The station is a world of ice and snow all year round, where you can experience the grandeur of the Alps up close.
” Here you change to the iconic Jungfraubahn for the final and most spectacular part of the route. “
The route to the summit: starting point and duration
The journey to Jungfraujoch starts in the villages of Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. From either of these locations you take a train to the hub of Kleine Scheidegg, a mountain pass at an altitude of 2,061 metres. Here you change to the iconic Jungfraubahn for the final and most spectacular part of the route. The total travel time from Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to the top is about one and a half to two hours. The train runs through a long tunnel that has been hewn into the mountains. On the way there is a short stop at Eismeer (Sea of Ice) station, where you look out through panoramic windows in the rock face at the surrounding glacier world.
For travellers who want to save time, there is a faster route available. The Eiger Express, a modern 3S cable car (a three-cable system with extra stability and comfort), takes you from Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher station in just 15 minutes. From there you can transfer directly to the Jungfraubahn for the last stretch to the top. This significantly shortens the total travel time.
Activities and sights on Jungfraujoch
Once you have arrived at 3,454 metres, there is more to do than just enjoy the view. The station is a complex with several attractions designed to let you experience the Alps in a unique way.
- Sphinx Observatory: A lift takes you in 25 seconds to this observation deck at 3,571 metres. From here you have 360-degree views over the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and the peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. The observatory is also one of the highest scientific research stations in the world.
- Ice Palace: Walk through a tunnel carved entirely from glacier ice. Inside you will find a world of corridors, halls and detailed ice sculptures that create a special atmosphere.
- Alpine Sensation: An interactive exhibition that tells the story of the arduous construction of the Jungfraubahn and the sacrifices made by the workers.
- Snow Fun Park (summer only): Depending on the snow conditions you can do activities here such as sledging, skiing or even taking a ride on a zip line.
- Hike to the Mönchsjochhütte: For active travellers there is a marked trail across the glacier to the Mönchsjochhütte. This hike takes about 45 minutes (one way) and offers a pure mountain experience. Good fitness and sturdy footwear are required.
Planning your visit: costs and practical tips
Good preparation is important for a visit to Jungfraujoch. Weather conditions in the high Alps can change rapidly, and the altitude itself requires some adjustment. Always check the weather forecast before you leave; in bad weather and cloud, the views are limited. The Jungfraubahn is open all year round.
The cost of a return ticket is considerable, often more than 200 Swiss francs per person. However, there are ways to save. Holders of a Swiss Travel Pass or Jungfrau Travel Pass receive a substantial discount on the journey. It is advisable to book your tickets and any seat reservations online in advance, especially during the high season (May to October).
Bear in mind the thin air at high altitude. Take it easy and drink plenty of water to prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. Dress in layers, including a hat, gloves and sunglasses, because even on a sunny day the temperature at the top is around freezing and the sun is strong.
The journey to Jungfraujoch is one of the most remarkable rail expeditions in Europe. On the Traveler Tips website you will find more practical travel guides and articles to help you plan your trip through Switzerland. Discover the best routes, tips for public transport and the most beautiful destinations this country has to offer.
Frequently asked questions
To plan your trip to Jungfraujoch, buy your tickets online well in advance, especially for the high season, and reserve seats. The fastest route is via the Eiger Express from Grindelwald Terminal. For the best value for money for budget-conscious travellers, you could consider using a Swiss Travel Pass for a discount or a Good Morning Ticket for early-bird savings. Eat before you set off to save on costs and travel by public transport, such as the train from Interlaken.
The Jungfraujoch Railway can be reached via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen by taking the train to Kleine Scheidegg and then changing to the Jungfraubahn. A faster option is the Eiger Express cable car from Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher, followed by a short train ride. These starting points are well integrated into the Swiss public transport network, so the journey connects seamlessly with both car and train travel. Booking tickets and seat reservations is recommended, especially in high season.
The best period to visit Jungfraujoch for a comfortable experience with optimal views and minimal crowds is during the summer months (June to September), but avoid weekends because of the crowds. Ideally, choose a sunny day for the most breathtaking views. For the fastest and most comfortable journey, the Eiger Express is recommended. Due to its popularity, it is wise to book tickets online well in advance.
On Jungfraujoch, the Sphinx Observatory with panoramic views and the Ice Palace with ice sculptures are the main attractions. You can also enjoy activities such as a snowboard park and the Snow Disk Run in summer, or skiing and hiking to the Mönchsjochhütte in winter. Essential for a pleasant stay are warm clothing, a hat, gloves and sunglasses to protect against UV rays and cold. Stay well hydrated and take it easy to avoid altitude sickness.
