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Jungfraujoch – Tips to Enjoy the “Top of Europe” Experience

During our vacation in Switzerland, in the summer of 2016, we went about exploring regions around Lac Léman often wondering where the crowds were. Gruyères had its tours, but the groups were spread out and relatively small. Gstaad was deserted to the extent it felt we had the whole of Bahnhofstrasse to ourselves. Zermatt was alive, but it still seemed relaxed going through what could only be the lull before the storm of the ski season.

Then, we reached Lauterbrunnen train station, and suddenly were engulfed in a sea of people from all around the world running, walking, waiting, and talking in every direction and open space available.

It was then that it hit me – well, someone’s backpack hit me around the same time as well, but that’s not what I’m talking about – how significant a Swiss tourist destination Jungfraujoch is.

I shall refrain from going into details as to why you should or should not visit Jungfraujoch – a little attraction at 3400-ish meters above sea level in-between the mountain peaks of Jungfrau and Mönch. It remains one of Switzerland’s premier tourist attractions and a magnificent amalgamation of human determination (building a rail track all the way up) and nature. Some people swear by the experience that they had at Jungfraujoch, and then there are those who feel that it is “overpriced and nothing great”. I for one am in the former category and can understand the reason for its popularity.

lauterbrunnenTaking the train from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch, I came across all possible types of “tourists.” Huge tour groups that took up to two train carriages, small families – very much like mine – travelling together, large families with grandparents and toddlers, hikers and a few skiers, couples on honeymoon, and friends out on an adventure. Jungfraujoch is a crash-course for any travel student in ways to learn and understand crowd management, keeping in mind cultural and language barriers. However, the arrangements by the local authorities and train staff are very much applaud-worthy.

So much information, a couple of train changes, a lingering uncertainty, and the excitement about what to expect, can all add up and be a little overwhelming.

Fear not, for you’ve come to the right place as I’ve listed below, from my personal experience, some of the key points to keep in mind while booking and travelling to Jungfraujoch. These will hopefully help you make the most of this once in a lifetime experience:

rail-track

Get a Swiss Travel Pass – In one of my previous write-ups – 5 Easy Ways to Save Money in Switzerland – I tried to break the myth that Switzerland is expensive, but a trip to Jungfraujoch can pinch the pocket a little bit. That’s where the discount options via the Swiss Travel Pass or Discount Card come in handy. Even if you are not using the train, and are on a self-drive holiday, it might be worth buying the pass just to save on similar excursions. It does require a few calculations to figure out how much the tickets cost in comparison to purchasing the pass, but trust me, half an hour of your time pre-planning can save you quite a bit of money.

Station Stops – The train to Jungfraujoch stops twice en route to the top, and both stops serve as closed viewpoints and bathroom breaks.  Eismeer Station, where the train stops for roughly 5 minutes, is worth a get down to stretch your legs and catch in some fantastic views.

mountains-at-jungfraujoch

“Always Take the Weather with You” – Crowded House warned you about this decade back and while it is not entirely in your hands, if you do have a choice, try and pick a bright and sunny day to go to Jungfraujoch. There are lots of indoor activities, but the real fun is in enjoying the outdoors. From majestic views at the Sphinx Observatory to sledding and zip-lining over the snow, it’s worth going to the top just for these adventures.

bundled-upBundle Up – No matter the weather, dress for all seasons. Keep enough warm clothes because while you might spend a lot of time indoors – train and then up top – it does get cold. Good comfortable shoes, gloves, and thick socks are also important. If they are waterproof all the better as you can be carefree about playing in the snow.

If you are traveling with children, follow the golden rule of keeping extra clothes which includes socks and gloves in this case.

Early Bird Misses the Crowds – Jungfraujoch gets a sudden influx of tour groups around lunchtime, and that’s also when the interiors get crammed. Therefore, it’s worth getting up as early as possible and taking one of the earliest trains to avoid this rush as much as possible. It also means you have the option of spending more time on the top.

No Reservations Required – When we bought our train tickets in Lauterbrunnen from the reception of Camping Jungfrau – our abode for three days – we were advised to reserve our seats at an extra cost.

However, we found this to be completely unnecessary as we ended up taking an earlier train than planned which meant we didn’t even use the booking.  And again, on the way back, since we had not booked a seat, we weren’t bound by a reservation and could stay for as long as we desired.

While going up and coming back down, there were enough seats for everyone, even in the non-reserved sections, and unless you feel you are traveling with someone who must have a place at all costs, you can skip reserving one, and save some money in the process.

top-of-europe

Children Friendly They Are – I love the way the Swiss think. More than that, I love how they act on their beliefs. Earlier I wrote about some of the Swiss Traits That I Admire, and one of them was their love towards children. Not only do the children travel free (up to a certain age) or get substantial discounts, but the train staff is helpful and forthcoming with storing the strollers and making sure everyone is comfortable. In case you have any inhibitions about taking your children – aside from health issues considering the air does get thin at Jungfraujoch – don’t worry at all.

Take It Slow – Once you reach the top, take your time with everything. You may feel light-headed initially, but as long as you take deep breaths, slow steps, and take it easy, you’re good to go. In case there is an emergency, medical services are available all around.

Plan Your Time – Jungfraujoch comes loaded with many activities and options to see and do, so plan your time accordingly, dividing it among things that you really want to do and maybe even skipping one or two that don’t interest you. Again, I cannot reiterate it more, if it’s a beautiful day, make the most of outdoor activities saving the indoor attractions for later. Keep at least 3-4 hours minimum to spend at Jungfraujoch – maybe even more if you want to have lunch.

jungfraujoch

Pre-Plan What You Like – Jungfraujoch, divided into a number of zones, features different aspects of the region. Spend a little time on their website and prioritize. This way, you will be able to navigate better and save time. Although the entire “complex” isn’t huge, you do walk slower, and it is cold, making moving around a timely activity. Here are some quick thoughts on a few of the attractions;

Jungfrau Panorama: A 360 degrees panoramic film is a nice breather as soon as you arrive on the top, but when you can see the real views, you won’t feel like looking at a screen for too long.

Alpine Sensation: A walk through all the hardship that it took to reach the “Top of Europe” and make Jungfraujoch possible. It’s a lovely homage to all the people that are responsible, especially those that lost their lives in the process, but also a celebration of human spirit.

Sphinx: An International Research Station, an elevator ride up to this observatory is a must to take in the breathtaking views.

Ice Palace: Although we skipped the Ice Palace because we had an opportunity to see something similar at Matterhorn, it is worth passing through it, to view beautiful sculptures made in ice.

Mönchsjochhütte: To get a glimpse of life in the cold, a 45-odd minute walk during the summer months will take you to this scenic spot. Once again, with kids tagging along, and having not planned our time – we learn from our mistakes – we had to skip this regretfully.

Snow Park: The highlight of the entire trip, Snow Park is heaps of fun in the snow.

Lindt Chocolate Experience: A slightly glorified shop, if you haven’t had your share of a chocolate overdose in Switzerland as yet, you may want to have a run through it quickly.

out-in-the-sun-at-jungfraujoch

Camera – This one goes without saying; you will need a decent camera – be it a phone, DSLR, or point-and-shoot – when you go to Jungfraujoch. Quite a few areas indoors are aesthetically lit up, and a camera that works well in low-light and one that has a good flash, plus steady hands (tripod helps), are all bonuses when choosing which camera to use.

Eat, Drink, and be Merry – Jungfraujoch comes prepared with multiple places to eat and drink, although they are a little expensive – blame it on the location. If you do plan on saving some money, prepare sandwiches beforehand and keep snacks handy to munch on while there.

Pay to Pee? – During my research on Jungfraujoch, I remember coming across a few mentions that using the bathroom wasn’t free. However, when we went there, we weren’t charged anything, so it’s a little up-in-the-air if you ask me. Nevertheless, keep some change handy in case there are charges.

sledging-in-jungfrau

Souvenirs and Touristy Things – If you love collecting souvenirs – magnets, pens, tees, posters – Then rest assured you will have ample options once you reach Jungfraujoch. There is a huge shop in the main reception selling various types of Swiss and Jungfraujoch related souvenirs for all possible tastes and prices.

Be Before Time – If traveling without a seat reservation, it is always advisable to reach the train station about 20-odd minutes before time to be in the front of the queue.

Take a Hike – This is one of the most important tips that I can give you and one that I regret missing out on. On your way back, the train stops at the tiny station of Eigergletscher – it is the last but one stop, just before Kleine Scheidegg. If the weather is good, get off at this station, and you will find a little signboard directing you to a primarily downhill, roughly 40-minute hike, to Kleine Scheidegg. The trek, I’ve been told, is not at all strenuous, and takes you through the beauty of Swiss Alps with spectacular views on the way.

wengen

Stop and Look Around – Not precisely related to Jungfraujoch, but if you do go there, then try and make some time to stop and explore the villages that make this region one of the prettiest in the country. Wengen is a beautiful small village in the mountains and Lauterbrunnen boasts of having 70 odd waterfalls. Grindelwald is exceptionally picturesque and Interlaken, a proper city, is the hotbed for adventure activities in Switzerland. If you arrive at Jungfraujoch early and leave by late afternoon, you can easily do at least one of the villages on your way back.

To make your vacation memorable, stay in one of these villages – as we did in Lauterbrunnen – which not only reduces your train journey time but also gives you ample opportunities to explore the region at a leisurely pace.

lauterbrunnen-green

Jungfraujoch is an exciting affair that one should try and experience given the opportunity. Excursions to peaks are everywhere in Switzerland, but each comes with a different “adventure” – the cable car rides of Matterhorn Express are so different from the less vertigo-educing train ride to Jungfraujoch – which makes them unique. Jungfraujoch is a beautiful and enlivening day-trip, memories of which you are bound to cherish.

43 Comments

  • Krista - Krista's Compass
    Posted 12 January, 17 at 11:12 PM

    I would love to do this! Looks absolutely amazing!

    Reply
  • Your Vacation Gurus
    Posted 12 January, 17 at 11:51 PM

    Lots of info. Thank you!!

    Reply
  • My Lenscape
    Posted 13 January, 17 at 3:21 PM

    Wow!!! This is so informative:)

    Reply
  • usfman
    Posted 14 January, 17 at 5:17 AM

    I might the nearby trail to the Schilthorn summit is also worth the effort. The last part of the walk is a little scary with the steepness however . Great place for marmot sightings.

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 15 January, 17 at 5:33 PM

      Yes, lots of hiking options across Switzerland in general but that’s quite special too.

      Reply
  • Only By Land
    Posted 15 January, 17 at 4:43 PM

    The Swiss are the best at engineering aren’t they! It’s amazing they have a train at Jungfraujoch! Thanks for the tip about going early meaning I wouldn’t need to reserve and also it’s not so busy. Early morning is definitely the time to visit!

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 15 January, 17 at 5:32 PM

      Cheers and yeah it’s all about the time. And a good sunny day.

      Reply
  • Hendrik
    Posted 15 January, 17 at 8:55 PM

    Jungfraujoch – one of my next destinations to discover here in Switzerland, while I am living here since last year.
    Isn’t it amazingly beautiful? Switzerland has for me one of the most amazing and beautiful landscapes in the world, incomparable mountains.
    Great tip with the Swiss Travel pass, because if you live here it is really helpful to understand where and how to save money 🙂

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 15 January, 17 at 9:24 PM

      Cheers. I’ve written a post on how to save money in Switzerland on the blog, so have a look at that.

      Reply
  • Rashmi and Chalukya
    Posted 16 January, 17 at 12:47 AM

    Switzerland is definitely a traveler’s paradise. There are so many gorgeous snow resorts which make some great family getaways. During our stay in Switzerland for more than a year we have explored through every nook and corner but gave Jungfraujoch a miss for its touristy crowd. These are some great tips surely gonna help anyone who would be looking for tips to the ‘Top of Europe’.

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 16 January, 17 at 11:48 AM

      Yeah it’s touristy but has its own charm too. Although if you’ve been on a few peaks I can totally understand skipping this.

      Reply
  • effcaa
    Posted 16 January, 17 at 2:10 AM

    Thanks for sharing your experience here. What I find interesting is the name which includes “Jungfrau”. Why? Well, I’m a Virgo.:)
    That’s why this post captured my attention. I like how you have everything outlined, even the bits when it comes to peeing. hihi
    Wishing you a nice week ahaed!

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 16 January, 17 at 11:49 AM

      Thanks and yeah thought I’d give all the possible details.

      Reply
  • Abigail
    Posted 16 January, 17 at 5:47 AM

    Switzerland is one country that has been in our bucket list for a while. Aside from wanting to taste the famous Swiss chocolate, this country is just all about beauty! Seeing your photos did not help to wane down that desire to visit this country – it only fueled it!

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 16 January, 17 at 11:49 AM

      Cheers and it’s quite a revelation, switzerland, once you’re there.

      Reply
  • Kathy (from walkaboutwanderer.com)
    Posted 16 January, 17 at 6:39 AM

    You write a brilliant story. I really enjoyed reading this. I have always enjoyed Switzerland but I haven’t been to this area. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  • Linger Abroad
    Posted 16 January, 17 at 10:52 AM

    Jungfraujoch landscape looks beautiful! The waterfall right by the town is a great picture to show it. What was the temperature like (someone is wearing a t-shirt??) and can you visit during winter? Did you experience any altitude sickness at 11,000 feet?

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 16 January, 17 at 11:42 AM

      The waterfall is in Lauterbrunnen and yes that’s a village worth visiting. We went during summer and it was sunny that day. Don’t remember the exact temperature but some could manage with a Tee although with kids it’s save to bundle up. If you feel hot then you can always “undress”. You can visit in the winter season and many do for skiing but depending on the weather some activities are closed. You can check on their website for details. We didn’t feel altitude sickness but people do so best to walk slow and take it easy. I still wouldn’t go there with the really old or infants/toddlers (up to age 2) but people were taking them so yeah whatever you’re comfortable with.

      Reply
      • Linger Abroad
        Posted 17 January, 17 at 2:45 AM

        This past winter, I was considering make a short trip to Switzerland, but supposedly the weather would close down some access points/activities, so that’s why I asked. But if anything, I’d probably try to make it during spring or summer anyways. Thanks!

        Reply
        • Post Author
          Ticker Eats The World
          Posted 17 January, 17 at 9:41 AM

          Switzerland is one of the few countries that remains quite functional during Winter. It also brings on a whole different charm. But as you said and as is the case with Jungfraujoch, yes, some activities and attractions do close down. Summer is lovely and green but try and avoid the rains – if you can – as in June when we were there, a lot was dampened because of that.

          Reply
  • Nuria Vidal
    Posted 16 January, 17 at 6:13 PM

    I saw this in a travel magazine a quite while ago and put it on my Switzerland bucket list, but didn’t know that there are all these amazing activities up there! It sounds like an amazing day trip and this post makes me can’t wait to visit it in summer! pinning it for later:)

    Reply
  • Sydney Fashion Hunter
    Posted 17 January, 17 at 4:48 AM

    Switzerland looks amazing and is on my bucket list. I’m hoping to be able to get there in 2019. I’ll be sure to visit Jungfraujoch and follow your tips!

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 17 January, 17 at 9:42 AM

      Cheers and I love how you can plan so much in advance – I could never.

      Reply
      • Sydney Fashion Hunter
        Posted 17 January, 17 at 12:55 PM

        Well it’s only ‘pencilled in’ lol

        Reply
  • Ashley Smith
    Posted 3 February, 17 at 3:40 AM

    This is such a helpful post. I’ve been to this area many times but have only gone up as far as Gimmelwald. I consider the top all the time but the price is like… eh, do I really wanna? But now I know that I do. Those people that say it’s “nothing great” ..? Idiots!

    Reply
  • My Wanderlusty Life
    Posted 3 February, 17 at 3:43 AM

    This is such a helpful post. I’ve been to this area many times but have only gone up as far as Gimmelwald. I consider the top all the time but the price is like… eh, do I really wanna? But now I know that I do. Those people that say it’s “nothing great” ..? Idiots!

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 3 February, 17 at 8:46 AM

      Exactly. I think there’s a lot to see and experience.

      Reply
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  • samba2017
    Posted 6 April, 17 at 5:08 PM

    Thanks this is really useful. I have been living in Swizterland near to Basel for eight years and will finally be going up the Jungfraujoch next week! I have just started a poetry blog here on WordPress in case you have time to look? Have a nice afternoon, Sam 🙂

    Reply
    • Post Author
      Ticker Eats The World
      Posted 6 April, 17 at 5:37 PM

      Cheers and will certainly have a read. All the best and have to say I’m a bit jealous ’cause I would love to live in Switzerland. If you get a chance do visit the regions around Lac Leman especially the wine regions in Corsier.

      Reply
      • samba2017
        Posted 6 April, 17 at 6:48 PM

        Yes we have been to some but not all. Thanks for the tip, we love our 🍷

        Reply
        • Post Author
          Ticker Eats The World
          Posted 15 April, 17 at 4:07 PM

          Awesome and always wonderful to meet fellow wine admirers.

          Reply
          • samba2017
            Posted 15 April, 17 at 8:10 PM

            🙂

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