Jungfraujoch: Roundtrip to the Top of Europe by Train in Interlaken

Exploring the Swiss Alps can be one of the most rewarding experiences for a traveler. Serenely beautiful snow-capped mountains, tranquil alpine lakes, and gorgeous meadows lined with wildflowers—it’s no wonder Switzerland is considered one of the most picturesque countries in Europe. And if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, a round trip to Jungfraujoch via train from Interlaken is certainly a must. Some call it “Top of Europe,” and with such superb views, it’s easy to see why.

Located high up in the Swiss Alps, Jungfraujoch is one of the highest railway stations in Europe and can be easily reached with a two-hour train trip from Interlaken. During the journey, you’ll have magnificent views along the way, including the vast ski resorts of Grindelwald and Kleine Scheidegg.

The first step on a roundtrip visit to Jungfraujoch is to buy your tickets. There are several types of tickets available, including half-fare passes, local tickets and foreign guest passes. You can purchase tickets for the journey at any of the railway stations or ticket machines in Interlaken or in the Jungfraubahn ticket office.

Once your ticket is booked, you’re ready to embark on a journey to the “Top of Europe”! The rail trip starts at either the Interlaken West Station or Interlaken Ost Station. From here, you’ll take the Bernese Oberland Railway to Lauteraar Station. This route will take you along a beautiful lakeside route, with breath-taking views of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Once you arrive at Lauteraar Station, take the yellow-colored Jungfraubahn train to continue your journey up Jungfraujoch mountain. Along the way, you’ll have stunning views of snow-covered valleys, jagged mountain peaks, and mountain villages.

When you arrive at Jungfraujoch, you’ll be welcomed by the snow-capped peak of the Jungfrau mountain, which rises above the clouds. You can take an elevator to the top of Jungfraujoch and explore the glaciers, snowfields and icy wonders. There are several activities available on site, including skiing and snowboarding, ice-walking tours, and scenic helicopter rides. You can also explore the view points at Sphinx Observations Deck, which offer spectacular panoramic views of the Jungfrau Mountain and its surrounding peaks, as well as the Swiss plains below.

After taking in all of Jungfrau’s natural beauty and exploring its surrounding peaks and valleys, it’s time to head back to Interlaken. The descent down the Jungfraubahn railway is just as impressive as the journey up, with stunning views of glaciers and rugged mountains. The final stretch takes you from Kleine Scheidegg Station down to Interlaken Ost Station or Interlaken West Station.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that combines both natural beauty and a dose of adventure, a roundtrip to Jungfraujoch via train from Interlaken is an ideal option. With magnificent scenery along the way and unforgettable views at the top, this is an excursion that you won’t soon forget.

If you’re interested in exploring all that Jungfrau has to offer, do not miss out on GetYourGuide’s activity that includes a 2-day guided tour starting from Interlaken to Schilthorn mountain top and back down again to explore unmatched panoramic views over various peaks and valleys Book now!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is a charming town located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. This town is renowned for its beautiful surroundings, alpine mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic landscapes. There are plenty of things to do in Interlaken, from exploring the Swiss Alps to experiencing authentic Swiss culture, tasting traditional cuisine to wandering through the charming streets and shopping for souvenirs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip to Interlaken.

Things to Do

• Jungfraujoch – Take a scenic train ride to the “Top of Europe”, Jungfraujoch, which is considered the highest railway station in Europe, located at an altitude of 3,454 meters. Here, you can witness awe-inspiring views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

• Lake Brienz – A mesmerizing crystal-clear blue lake with pristine water quality, Lake Brienz is a must-visit. You can go swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding, and for adventure-seekers, there are plenty of thrilling water sports.

• Hiking – Interlaken is a paradise for hikers, with beautiful scenic trails for beginner and advanced hikers, such as Harder Kulm Trail, Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail, and Scenic Circular Hike, among others.

• Skiing – Interlaken is surrounded by alpine mountains that offer exceptional skiing experiences, and there are several ski resorts for beginners and experts, such as Kleine Scheidegg-Männlichen, Beatenberg-Niederhorn, and Habkern.

Where to Eat

• Schuh – A cozy restaurant with a lovely ambiance and delicious food. Schuh is a local favorite that serves authentic Swiss cuisine, such as cheese fondue, rosti, and raclette, which are must-try dishes.

• Bären – This restaurant boasts an amazing view of the Jungfrau mountain range and serves a wide range of delicious Swiss and European dishes, including steak, seafood, and vegetarian options.

• Alpenblick – A family-friendly restaurant that serves an exquisite menu featuring Swiss and international cuisine. You can enjoy meals in a panoramic dining room with breathtaking views of the Alps.

Cultural Experiences

• Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg – Experience authentic Swiss culture at the Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg, which showcases traditional Swiss architecture, crafts, and rural lifestyles.

• Interlaken Monastery – Visit the Interlaken Monastery, which is one of the town’s oldest buildings and offers a peek into the local history and culture.

• Trümmelbach Falls – Trümmelbach Falls is a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls, located in Lauterbrunnen Valley, and is well worth a visit to experience the raw power of nature.

Local History

• Hohematte Park – Explore the Hohematte Park, which is a historic park that was once a military barracks, housing for evacuees, and a landing area for airmail. Today, it’s a beautiful park that hosts events and offers stunning views of the Alps.

• Heimatwerk – The Heimatwerk is a museum that showcases the traditional handicrafts and craftsmanship of the region’s artisans. You can purchase some unique and one-of-a-kind items as souvenirs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

• Giessbach Falls – Take a boat ride across Lake Brienz to reach the Giessbach Falls. This stunning natural wonder features several waterfalls, beautiful gardens, and a historic hotel.

• St. Beatus Caves – Explore the underground caves and waterfalls at St. Beatus Caves. Adventure-seekers can opt for guided tours that take them deep inside the caves, revealing the unique rock formations.

• Harder Klum – Take a funicular ride up to Harder Klum, which is a lookout point with panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and the town below.

Interlaken is truly a unique and unforgettable destination with a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit every traveler. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure-seeker, or culture vulture, Interlaken has something for everyone.