Jungfraujoch is Switzerland's crown jewel, sitting at a breathtaking 11,332 feet above sea level. Think gleaming glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and views so stunning they'll make your Instagram feed explode with likes.
If you're staying in Interlaken, you're perfectly positioned to make this unforgettable journey. But here's the thing – there isn't just one way up to this alpine wonderland. You've got options, and each route offers its own magical experience! Let's break down how to get from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch, what you'll see along the way, and how to make the most of your trip.
Quick facts about Jungfraujoch
Before we dive into the routes, here's what makes Jungfraujoch so special:
- Altitude: 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level
- Nickname: "Top of Europe" (it's home to Europe's highest railway station)
- Main attractions: Ice Palace, Alpine Sensation, Sphinx Observatory, Snow Fun Park, Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven
- Weather: Expect temperatures between -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F) year-round
- Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and catch the clearest views
- Visit duration: Plan to spend 3-4 hours exploring the attractions at the top
Connectivity from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch
Interlaken sits perfectly between two stunning lakes (that's literally what its name means!) and serves as your launchpad to alpine adventures. The journey to Jungfraujoch is as spectacular as the destination itself, taking you through charming Swiss villages and offering jaw-dropping mountain views along the way.
- Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen – Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch
- Interlaken – Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch
- Interlaken – Grindelwald – Eigergletscher – Jungfraujoch (via the Eiger Express cableway)
Can't decide which to pick? Don't worry! We'll walk you through each option, including what you'll see, how long it takes, and who it's perfect for.
Route 1: Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen – Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch
Overview:
- Hop on a train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen (20 minutes).
- Transfer to a cogwheel train to Kleine Scheidegg via Wengen (45 minutes).
- Board the Jungfraubahn, the final cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch (35 minutes).
- Approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.
What you'll see:
- The Lauterbrunnen Valley, often called the "Valley of 72 Waterfalls " – and yes, there really are that many cascades dotting the dramatic cliff faces!
- The charming car-free village of Wengen, where the only sounds you'll hear are cowbells and the occasional train.
- Panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks from Kleine Scheidegg.
- Alpine meadows dotted with grazing cows and wildflowers (if you're visiting in summer).
Best for:
- Photographers who want to capture Switzerland's most iconic landscapes
- Nature lovers who appreciate the "journey as much as the destination" philosophy
- Anyone wanting to experience the quintessential Swiss mountain village scene
- First-time visitors to Switzerland who want the classic postcard experience
- Pro tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy in Lauterbrunnen – there's a Coop grocery store near the station where you can grab Swiss cheese, bread, and chocolate before boarding your train!
Route 2: Interlaken – Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch
Overview:
- Catch a train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald (35 minutes).
- Transfer to the Wengernalpbahn cogwheel train to Kleine Scheidegg (40 minutes).
- Continue on the Jungfraubahn to Jungfraujoch (35 minutes).
- Total journey time: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.
What you'll see:
- Grindelwald's dramatic landscape, with the Eiger North Face towering above – a wall of rock that has challenged climbers for generations.
- The lush, green valley of Grindelwald, filled with alpine chalets and outdoor adventure opportunities.
- A different angle of the magnificent Bernese Alps as you approach Kleine Scheidegg.
- Plenty of hikers and adventure seekers if you're visiting in summer – this is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts!
Best for:
- Active travelers who might want to add a short hike to their journey (there are trails from Grindelwald).
- Action sports enthusiasts – Grindelwald is a hub for paragliding, mountain biking, and climbing.
- Film buffs – parts of "The Eiger Sanction" and "North Face" were filmed here.
- People who enjoy a more lively mountain town vibe (Grindelwald has more shops, restaurants, and activities than Lauterbrunnen).
Pro tip: If you have time, consider stopping at Männlichen via cable car from Grindelwald for a spectacular view before continuing to Kleine Scheidegg!
Route 3: Interlaken – Grindelwald – Eiger Glacier Station – Jungfraujoch (via Eiger Express)
Overview:
- Take a train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald Terminal (35 minutes).
- Board the Eiger Express cableway to Eigergletscher station (15 minutes).
- Transfer to the Jungfraubahn for the final stretch to Jungfraujoch (25 minutes).
- Total journey time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (less than half the time of the other routes!).
What you'll see:
- A futuristic cable car ride with floor-to-ceiling windows offering unparalleled views as you soar above the mountains.
- A closer look at the Eiger Glacier and its rugged ice formations.
- Cutting-edge Swiss engineering in action – the Eiger Express opened in December 2020 and represents the newest way to experience this classic journey.
Best for:
- Time-pressed travelers looking to maximize their time at the top.
- Those who enjoy thrilling aerial experiences (the cable car reaches heights of 45 meters above ground).
- Tech and engineering enthusiasts who appreciate modern Swiss innovation.
- Visitors who might be prone to motion sickness on the longer, winding train routes.
Recommended tickets to Jungfraujoch
Which route should you choose?
Still can't decide? Here's our quick recommendation guide:
- If you're a first-time visitor to Switzerland and want that classic Swiss experience with waterfalls and charming villages, Route 1 via Lauterbrunnen is your dream come true.
- If you love outdoor adventures and vibrant mountain towns, Route 2 through Grindelwald offers the perfect mix of scenery and action.
- If you're short on time or traveling with kids, who might get restless on longer journeys, the Eiger Express on Route 3 will get you there in a flash with incredible views.
The insider move: Many savvy travelers choose different routes for their ascent and descent. For example, take the quick Eiger Express up to maximize your time at the top, then return via Lauterbrunnen to experience the charming villages on your way down when you're not rushing to beat the crowds!
