THE JUNGFRAU REGION
The Jungfrau Region is a spectacular landscape of colossal peaks, massive glaciers, and deep, U-shaped valleys carved by ancient ice. It is the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Dominated by the iconic trio—Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau—this region offers thrilling adventures, historic mountain railways, and idyllic, car-free alpine villages.
Most Popular Attractions
High-Alpine Peaks & Glaciers:
- Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454m, offering year-round snow, ice, and rock experiences.
- Aletsch Glacier: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the longest glacier in the Alps, viewable from the Sphinx Observatory on the Jungfraujoch.
- Sphinx Observatory: A high-altitude research station and viewing platform at 3,571m, providing one of the most magnificent panoramic views in the world.
- Ice Palace: A frosty world of tunnels and elaborate ice sculptures dug directly into the Aletsch Glacier beneath the Jungfraujoch.
- Schilthorn – Piz Gloria: A summit famous for its 360-degree revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, and its legendary role as a villain’s lair in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
Mountain Adventures & Panoramic Walks:
- Grindelwald First: A mountain known as the “Top of Adventure,” offering a diverse range of adrenaline-pumping activities and stunning views.
- First Cliff Walk by Tissot: A narrow metal walkway clinging to the sheer side of the First mountain cliff, concluding in a thrilling viewing platform.
- Birg Thrill Walk: A terrifyingly fun, 200-meter-long cliffside pathway of wire mesh, glass, and steel bolted to the rock face on the way to the Schilthorn.
- Männlichen: A mountaintop accessible by cable car, featuring the easy Royal Walk to a crown-shaped viewing platform with the best views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
- Panorama Trail (Männlichen–Kleine Scheidegg): A classic, relatively flat hiking trail with constant, unobstructed views of the three iconic mountain peaks.
- Eiger Trail: A challenging hike running directly along the base of the colossal Eiger North Face, allowing climbers to be seen on the rock.
- Schynige Platte: Reachable by a historic rack-and-pinion railway, famous for its magnificent alpine views and the charming Alpine Botanical Garden.
- Bachalpsee (Lake Bachalp): A beautiful alpine lake, often called the “Jewel of the Alps,” famed for reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
- Mürren Via Ferrata: An extreme, exposed protected climbing path from Mürren to Gimmelwald, featuring a suspension bridge and a sheer cliff walk.
Iconic Valleys & Alpine Villages:
- Lauterbrunnen Valley: A spectacular U-shaped valley, often called the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” framed by towering cliffs and lush meadows.
- Staubbach Falls: One of Europe’s highest single free-falling waterfalls, plunging nearly 300m over the cliff face above the village of Lauterbrunnen.
- Trümmelbach Falls: The world’s only accessible glacier waterfalls inside a mountain, where ten falls thunder down through spiral tunnels and galleries.
- Wengen: A car-free mountain village perched on a sunny terrace above Lauterbrunnen, famous for its grand-belle époque hotels and World Cup ski race.
- Mürren: A picturesque, car-free traditional alpine village situated on a high cliffside with unparalleled, dramatic views of the Jungfrau Massif.
- Grindelwald: The region’s largest alpine village, a key hub offering direct access to the mountains and activities on Grindelwald First.
- Gimmelwald: A small, authentic, car-free hamlet with rustic charm, located below Mürren and known for its exceptionally quiet, traditional atmosphere.
Lakeside & Adventure Hubs:
- Harder Kulm: Interlaken’s local mountain, which offers a great panorama of the town, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the gateway to the Jungfrau trio.
- Interlaken: The primary adventure and transport hub, located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, offering skydiving, paragliding, and canyoning.
Activities & Experiences
Journey to the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: Take a scenic train ride through the Eiger mountain to the highest railway station in Europe (3,454 m), where you can visit the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observatory.
Hike the Panorama Trail (Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg): Enjoy one of the most famous and easiest hikes with iconic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
Experience the Thrills at Grindelwald First: Access the “Top of Adventure” via gondola and enjoy activities like the First Cliff Walk by Tissot, First Flyer zipline, First Glider, Mountain Cart, or Trottibike scooter.
Explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley: Walk or cycle along the valley floor, known as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” and marvel at the towering cliffs.
Visit the Trümmelbach Falls: Take a funicular-elevator inside the mountain to view the ten gushing glacial waterfalls, the only accessible glacier waterfalls in the world.
Walk the Mürren Via Ferrata: For an adrenaline rush, traverse this $2.2\text{ km}$ route (guided) with suspension bridges, ladders, and zip lines, clinging to the cliff face between Mürren and Gimmelwald.
Ascend the Schilthorn – Piz Gloria: Take the cable car to the revolving restaurant and observation deck, famous for its role in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, and walk the Birg Thrill Walk.
Go Paragliding over Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen: Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a tandem flight offering breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the lakes and mountain peaks.
Hike to Lake Bachalpsee: From Grindelwald First, take the classic, relatively easy high-alpine hike to this beautiful lake, often called the “Jewel of the Alps,” with reflections of the mountains.
Take a Cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz: Enjoy a relaxing boat trip from Interlaken to see the lakeside castles (like Oberhofen) and picturesque villages from the water.
Visit Harder Kulm – Top of Interlaken: Take the funicular up for a fantastic panoramic view of Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
Explore the White-Water Sports from Interlaken: For serious adventurers, try canyoning, river rafting, or jet boating in the “Adventure Capital of Switzerland.”
Local Tips & Transport
Mountain Transport is Key: The region relies on an intricate network of mountain railways, funiculars, cogwheel trains, and aerial cable cars to reach all the main attractions and villages. Most mountain villages (Wengen, Mürren, Gimmelwald) are car-free.
Invest in a Pass: Due to the high cost of individual tickets, especially for mountain excursions, consider purchasing a Jungfrau Travel Pass or the Swiss Travel Pass. Calculate which pass offers the best value based on your planned excursions, as some premium routes (like the Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch) are only partially covered or require a supplement.
The Swiss Train System (SBB): The entire Swiss rail system is famously punctual, efficient, and well-connected. Interlaken Ost is the main gateway station. The trains are very well-labelled, and English announcements are common.
Getting to Car-Free Villages: If arriving by car, you will need to park in designated long-term parking at the base of the mountains (e.g., Lauterbrunnen for Mürren/Wengen access, or Grindelwald Terminal) and continue your journey via public transport.
Seat Reservations: On the final leg of the journey to Jungfraujoch, a seat reservation is highly recommended, especially during peak season and on clear-weather days, to guarantee a departure time and skip long queues.
Check the Webcams: The weather in the mountains is notoriously changeable. Before heading up to a high-altitude peak, check the live webcams from the station to ensure the view isn’t obstructed by fog or clouds. A beautiful day in the valley can be an overcast day on the summit.
Dress in Layers: Given the altitude, temperatures can drop drastically from the valley floor to the mountain peaks. Even in summer, bring a hat, gloves, and a wind/waterproof jacket for the high-alpine excursions like Jungfraujoch.
Pricing: Switzerland is an expensive country. Budget accordingly for transportation, meals, and activities. Tap water is generally safe to drink, so bring a reusable bottle to save on purchasing bottled water.
The Valley of Waterfalls: The Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of the most stunning locations. Take time to walk among the waterfalls. The valley’s landmark is the Staubbach Falls, which you can walk behind during summer.
Car-Free Charm: The villages of Mürren and Wengen offer a unique, peaceful, and authentic alpine experience, free from the noise and bustle of cars. This makes them excellent bases for hikers.
Hidden Gems:
- Schynige Platte: Take the historic cogwheel railway from Wilderswil for a stunning vantage point, a nostalgic train ride with wooden benches, and an alpine garden.
- Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht): A deep, narrow gorge near Meiringen (a short trip from the Jungfrau region) that you can walk through on wooden walkways—a great alternative activity on a rainy or overcast day.
- Eiger Trail Hike: A challenging but rewarding trail that leads along the base of the mighty Eiger North Face, offering unique perspectives on the sheer rock wall.
- Blumental Panorama Trail (from Allmendhubel): A family-friendly and relatively easy trail above Mürren, known for its blooming alpine meadows and views of the “Big Three” mountains.
Top Restaurants
Restaurant Weidstübli [$25-$45] – Located near Camping Jungfrau in Lauterbrunnen, this cozy, rustic chalet is known by locals and in-the-know travelers for its traditional Swiss cuisine and good quality at a reasonable price. Reservations are highly recommended.
Bergrestaurant Allmend [$25-$40] – A charming mountain restaurant in Wengen/Kleine Scheidegg area offering delicious dining with stunning views and a friendly, classic alpine atmosphere, less crowded than some major peak restaurants.
Hotel Oberland Restaurant [$25-$45] – A reliable and popular choice in Lauterbrunnen village, serving classic, hearty Swiss dishes like fondue, raclette, and rösti in a relaxed, no-frills setting.
Restaurant Bären [$30-$50] – A traditional hotel restaurant in Wengen, part of the Alpenkräuter Hotel, offering Swiss and regional specialties often incorporating alpine herbs, providing an authentic taste of the area.
Restaurant Eiger Muerren [$30-$50] – Conveniently located right outside the Mürren train station, this restaurant is known for its delicious, traditional fare and offers a convenient dining option with great mountain views.
CundM Café Bar Restaurant [$20-$35] – A charming, rustic café and bar in Grindelwald with a beautiful view of the Eiger, known for excellent homemade breads, soups, and traditional Swiss cakes. A great, less tourist-heavy spot for lunch or a snack.
Bergrestaurant Winteregg [$25-$45] – Situated between Lauterbrunnen and Mürren, this mountain restaurant is famous for its incredible views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, and serves a fine selection of hot Swiss classics.
Bergrestaurant Bussalp [$25-$40] – Located above Grindelwald, this mountain restaurant offers a fantastic sun terrace and traditional food, popular with hikers and skiers looking for an authentic mountain stop.
Gasthof zur Post [$30-$50] – Located in Hasliberg, slightly outside the main tourist hubs, this inn offers traditional Swiss cuisine and local specialties in a cozy setting, providing a more local experience.
Hotel Restaurant Pinte [$30-$55] – A hotel restaurant in Grindelwald offering classic Swiss and international dishes in a comfortable, traditional setting.
Restaurant Fiescherblick [$45-$75] – Located in Hotel Fiescherblick in Grindelwald, this restaurant offers a contemporary concept blending traditional Bernese Oberland coziness with a modern, Nordic/French culinary approach, earning 15 Gault-Millau points.
Restaurant Alpinhotel Wildhorn [$40-$65] – Located in the quieter town of Gsteigwiler near Interlaken, offering a creative take on seasonal Swiss cuisine in a modern yet cozy Alpine setting.
Restaurant Schilthorn – Piz Gloria (à la carte) [$40-$70] – While high up and famous, dining at the à la carte section (outside of the main buffet) offers a surprisingly good menu with a creative twist on Swiss classics, all while revolving 360 degrees. (More touristy, but worthy for the unique experience).
Hüttenzauber at Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn [$35-$60] – A cozy restaurant in Wengen offering a more refined and contemporary approach to traditional Swiss mountain food, focusing on quality ingredients.
Bistro Grütschalp [$20-$35] – Located at the Grütschalp cable car station, this bistro is an excellent stop for a break with snacks and drinks, offering a modern, clean atmosphere and stunning views of the famous peaks.
BG’s Grill Restaurant (Hotel Bergwelt) [$50-$80] – A refined grill restaurant in Grindelwald focused on “casual Alpine soul food” with local products, expertly prepared on a wood grill, and earning 15 Gault-Millau points.
Café 3692 [$20-$35] – A unique and artistic spot in Grindelwald known for its owner’s creativity, offering tasty specials made from garden herbs and locally sourced ingredients, with a modern, casual vibe.
Boutique Hotel and Restaurant Glacier [$70-$120] – A top-tier dining experience in Grindelwald with 16 Gault-Millau points. Chef Paul Cabayé offers refined, modern cuisine with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and inventive presentations.
Restaurant 1910 Gourmet by Hausers [$70-$110] – Located in the traditional Hotel Belvedere in Grindelwald, this Michelin-starred restaurant (1 star, 15 Gault-Millau points) offers sophisticated, elevated cuisine with a passion for vegetarian courses alongside classic offerings.
Grandhotel Giessbach: Restaurant Les Cascades [$60-$100] – Located in the stunning historic Grand Hotel above Lake Brienz (reachable by funicular), this restaurant offers classic, refined dining with views of the Giessbach Falls, a truly elegant and memorable setting.
Hotel and Nature Resort Handeck Restaurant [$60-$90] – Located in Guttannen (Haslital), this restaurant has earned 15 Gault-Millau points for its high-quality, elaborate natural cuisine made from regional products, emphasizing a deep connection to the high-alpine region.
La Terrasse Brasserie (Interlaken) [$60-$90] – Located in the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa in Interlaken, this restaurant offers fine dining with French influence and exquisite service in a luxurious, Belle Époque setting.
Restaurant im Hotel Seepark (Thun) [$60-$90] – Located in Thun (just outside the Jungfrau Region proper, but easily accessible from Interlaken), this restaurant offers a refined gastronomic experience with beautiful lake views.
Gourmetstübli (Hotel Alpenblick) [$50-$80] – A cozy gourmet restaurant in Wilderswil near Interlaken, offering high-quality, creative cuisine in an intimate, rustic-chic atmosphere.
Aletsch Self Service Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located at Jungfraujoch, this is a very popular, high-altitude self-service spot offering a wide selection of international and Swiss dishes for a quick, casual, and necessary meal at the Top of Europe.
Bollywood Restaurant [$20-$40] – A unique, high-altitude self-service restaurant at Jungfraujoch, offering authentic Indian food amidst a glacier panorama, a surprisingly exotic option in the Alps.
Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori [$25-$45] – Located in Interlaken, this Italian spot is a great alternative to Swiss cuisine, offering delicious pizza and pasta in a vibrant atmosphere.
Tham Restaurant [$25-$45] – A charming and well-regarded Chinese eatery in Mürren, run by a friendly Singaporean-Malaysian couple, offering an unexpected but delightful culinary change of pace in the Alps.
e-tron energy bar [$25-$45] – Located at the modern Grindelwald Terminal, this bar is known for its cocktails, wines, and tapas (or small plates), offering a trendy, high-tech atmosphere contrasting with the traditional Swiss chalet style.
Mary’s Café/Hexehüsli [$20-$35] – A cozy, rustic hut in the Kleine Scheidegg/Männlichen area offering simple, warm, and authentic mountain food, perfect for a mid-ski or mid-hike stop.
Onkel Tom’s Pizzeria und Weinlokal [$25-$45] – A charming and cozy restaurant in Grindelwald, known for its diverse pizza menu, offering a casual and satisfying meal option.
Fondue Backpack Wengen [$20-$30 per person] – Not a fixed restaurant, but a unique, delicious, and local experience. Rent a backpack from Wengen Tourism complete with fondue ingredients, pan, and cutlery to enjoy a classic Swiss fondue picnic outdoors with a stunning view.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
e-tron energy bar (Grindelwald Terminal): Located at the new Grindelwald Terminal, this modern bar offers exquisite cocktails and wines in a high-tech, refined setting, perfect before or after a mountain ascent.
The Wall Bar (Eigergletscher Station): An homage to the Eiger North Face, this bar is exceptionally high up, found directly on the slopes at the Eigergletscher station, featuring its own gin distillery and serving drinks with a breathtaking view.
On the Rocks Bar (Wengen): Positioned in the car-free village of Wengen, this popular bar is known for its casual and friendly atmosphere, offering a hand-crafted list of delicious cocktails and spirits.
Riff Raff Bar (Interlaken): A cozy and popular bar in Interlaken, offering a relaxed environment with a wide selection of drinks and known for its vibrant crowd.
Barracuda Cafe & Bar (Interlaken): A lively spot in Interlaken known for its welcoming atmosphere, great food, and “mad cocktails,” often hosting wild parties.
The Lounge Lobby Bar (Interlaken): An elegant lounge bar, often found in a larger hotel, offering a sophisticated setting for evening cocktails and conversation in Interlaken.
Bistro Eigergletscher (Eigergletscher Station): Though primarily a bistro, this spot offers a selection of drinks and Nespresso indulgence at the Eigergletscher station, ideal for a break with a spectacular mountain backdrop.
e-tron energy bar (Grindelwald Terminal): Located at the new Grindelwald Terminal, this modern bar offers exquisite cocktails and wines in a high-tech, refined setting, perfect before or after a mountain ascent.
The Wall Bar (Eigergletscher Station): An homage to the Eiger North Face, this bar is exceptionally high up, found directly on the slopes at the Eigergletscher station, featuring its own gin distillery and serving drinks with a breathtaking view.
On the Rocks Bar (Wengen): Positioned in the car-free village of Wengen, this popular bar is known for its casual and friendly atmosphere, offering a hand-crafted list of delicious cocktails and spirits.
Riff Raff Bar (Interlaken): A cozy and popular bar in Interlaken, offering a relaxed environment with a wide selection of drinks and known for its vibrant crowd.
Barracuda Cafe & Bar (Interlaken): A lively spot in Interlaken known for its welcoming atmosphere, great food, and “mad cocktails,” often hosting wild parties.
The Lounge Lobby Bar (Interlaken): An elegant lounge bar, often found in a larger hotel, offering a sophisticated setting for evening cocktails and conversation in Interlaken.
Bistro Eigergletscher (Eigergletscher Station): Though primarily a bistro, this spot offers a selection of drinks and Nespresso indulgence at the Eigergletscher station, ideal for a break with a spectacular mountain backdrop.
Hüsi Bierhaus (Interlaken): While specializing in craft beer, this Interlaken favorite also serves a variety of other drinks in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Brasserie17 (Interlaken): Known for its wide range of beers on tap and delicious food, this spot also provides a great atmosphere for evening drinks and often features live music.
Cava Bar (Grindelwald): Found in the Derby Hotel near the Grindelwald railway station, this bar is known to feature the occasional live band and provides a lively atmosphere for evening drinks.
Challi Bar (Grindelwald): Located in the Hotel Kreuz & Post in Grindelwald, this is a popular spot for evening socializing with a traditional bar feel.
Gondolbar (Mürren): A unique après-ski bar in Mürren, transformed from a retired cable car gondola into a fun and memorable spot for a drink (typically only open in winter).
Anonym Pub (Wengen): Found in the Hotel Silberhorn in Wengen, this pub offers a rustic setting with a fireplace, perfect for a cozy alpine drink.
Skyline Shop & Bar (Mürren): Located in Mürren, this spot offers stunning views and a selection of drinks and light refreshments.
Hotel Horner Pub (Lauterbrunnen): The only pub in Lauterbrunnen village, providing a cozy and relaxed atmosphere with a terrace view of the illuminated Staubbachfall Waterfall.
3 Tells Irish Pub (Interlaken): A typical Irish pub in Interlaken, providing a friendly environment for a pint or a mixed drink, where you can easily meet locals and travelers.
Bebbis Restaurant, Bar & Lounge (Grindelwald): A combined restaurant, bar, and lounge in Grindelwald, ideal for enjoying a drink in an ambient setting.
Spycher Bar (Grindelwald): A charming bar in Grindelwald offering a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy drinks after a day in the mountains.
Ice Bar (Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe): Located within the Ice Palace on the Jungfraujoch, this unique bar is literally made of real ice, offering an unforgettable spot for an aperitif at 3,454 meters.
e-tron energy bar (Grindelwald Terminal): Located at the new Grindelwald Terminal, this modern bar offers exquisite cocktails and wines in a high-tech, refined setting, perfect before or after a mountain ascent.
The Wall Bar (Eigergletscher Station): An homage to the Eiger North Face, this bar is exceptionally high up, found directly on the slopes at the Eigergletscher station, featuring its own gin distillery and serving drinks with a breathtaking view.
Balmers Club (Interlaken): Easily one of the most popular nightlife spots in Interlaken, this underground bar and club hosts regular events with international DJs, live music, and theme parties, attracting a mix of travelers and locals.
The Hangover (Interlaken): The newest addition to Interlaken’s nightlife scene, this club near the train station is known for its late hours and is perfect for those who want to dance until morning, often playing electro and techno music.
Club Sendli (Interlaken): A club in Interlaken, adding to the town’s party scene.
Club Caverne (Interlaken): Another club option in Interlaken for those looking to dance and party late into the night.
Club Elegance (Interlaken): Found in Interlaken, offering a venue for a more upscale or unique nightlife experience.
Metro Club Interlaken (Interlaken): Part of the Balmer’s complex, this is another of the Interlaken clubbing options.
Platinum Club (Grindelwald): Described as a premier lounge in Grindelwald, this venue caters to a more luxurious nightclub experience.
Bliemli Chäller (Mürren): Mürren’s premier nightclub, providing a spot for lively après-ski festivities and late-night fun in the small car-free village.
Horner Bar (Lauterbrunnen): Located above the Horner Pub, this is Lauterbrunnen’s only late-night party venue, open on weekends and busy weekdays for dancing with a jukebox, table football, and darts.
Balmers Biergarten Grill & Chill (Interlaken): While primarily a dining spot, it transforms into a lively social space in the evenings, particularly for guests of the associated hostel, with a great atmosphere for meeting people and enjoying a late-night drink.