Ready to conquer the legendary "Top of Europe"? Perched at a breathtaking 3,454 meters, Jungfraujoch is Switzerland's crown jewel that'll leave you spellbound with its 360° Alpine panoramas and the massive Aletsch Glacier stretching into the horizon.
If you're setting off from charming Grindelwald, you've got two fantastic options to reach this snow-capped wonderland. Will you choose the classic Wengernalpbahn route with its nostalgic railway charm, or zip up via the sleek new Eiger Express gondola?
Both journeys are attractions themselves, showcasing Switzerland's perfect blend of natural beauty and engineering brilliance. Let's break down these routes so you can pick your perfect alpine adventure!
The Jungfraujoch Experience
Once you've reached the top, get ready for the magic that awaits! At 3,454 meters above sea level, Jungfraujoch isn't just a pretty view – it's a full-day adventure packed with jaw-dropping attractions.
- Sphinx Observatory: Step into this futuristic glass-walled observatory for mind-blowing 360° panoramas that stretch across three countries!
- Ice Palace: Wander through a glittering wonderland of ice tunnels and sculptures carved directly into the ancient glacier – cameras ready!
- Aletsch Glacier viewpoint: Gaze at Europe's longest glacier (23km!) from the perfect vantage point – this massive river of ice is bucket-list worthy.
- Snow Fun Park: Release your inner child with year-round sledding and snow tubing – yes, even in summer!
- Alpine indulgence: Treat yourself at the world's highest Lindt chocolate shop, because let's be honest – you've earned it!
Which way up?
When planning your Jungfraujoch adventure, you'll need to decide which route suits your style. The classic Wengernalpbahn journey offers traditional charm with picturesque stops at Kleine Scheidegg, while the new Eiger Express gondola provides a direct, time-saving option with spectacular aerial views.
Route 1: Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch via Wengernalpbahn
The classic alpine journey unfolds in two scenic stages:
Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg (Via Wengernalpbahn)
- Board the historic red cogwheel train for a 35-minute ride
- Glide past flower-dotted meadows, wooden chalets, and dramatic mountain backdrops
- Kleine Scheidegg offers restaurants and panoramic Eiger North Face views
Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch (Via Jungfraubahn)
- Transfer to the legendary Jungfrau Railway that tunnels through Eiger mountain
- Stop at Eigerwand and Eismeer viewing windows carved into the mountainside
- Final 55-minute climb takes you to "Top of Europe"
Total journey time: 90 minutes of pure Swiss railway magic!
Route 2: Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch via Eiger Express
The sleek, modern option that revolutionized Jungfrau access in 2020:
Grindelwald Terminal to Eiger Glacier (Via Eiger Express)
- Hop aboard the state-of-the-art tricable gondola from Grindelwald Terminal
- Soars directly to Eiger Glacier station in just 15 minutes
- Marvel at breathtaking aerial views of the legendary Eiger North Face
Eiger Glacier to Jungfraujoch (Via Jungfraubahn)
- Transfer to the historic Jungfrau Railway
- Journey through mountain tunnels with stops at panoramic viewpoints
Total journey time: approximately 45 minutes (half the traditional route!)
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Ticketing information & Swiss Travel Pass benefits
How to buy tickets
- Online purchase: It is recommended to book tickets in advance. Deopending on where you are boarding from, you’ll have options from the Swiss Travel Pass, Jungfrau Travel Pass, or individual tickets.
- Combo tickets: This option includes both transportation and attractions at Jungfraujoch.
- Jungfrau travel pass: If you plan on exploring multiple attractions in the Jungfrau region, consider the Jungfrau Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel for 3 to 8 days.
- Guided tours: Several guided tour options are available that include round-trip transportation from major Swiss cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Interlaken. These packages often combine transportation with skip-the-line access and an experienced guide who can provide valuable insights about the mountain's history and geology.
Swiss travel pass benefits
- Holders of the Swiss Travel Pass get a 25% discount on the journey to Jungfraujoch.
- The pass covers free travel up to Grindelwald and Wengen, meaning you only need to pay for the portion beyond these points.
- Great for those planning extensive travel across Switzerland, as it also covers trains, boats, and public transport in cities.
