The Essential Guide to Jungfrau Region

Switzerland is a small country, but it has a lot to offer. scenic towns and sites To explore the country. Jungfrau is one Alpine region which has been largely overlooked up until very recently.

The Jungfrau Region, located in southwest Switzerland in the Bernese Highlands is famous for its stunning valleys, glacial lakes and waterfalls. There are three distinct mountains here, the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch peaks, which has earned it the nickname, the “Top of Europe.” The highest train station in Europe is located here, although it’s not quite the highest point (that would be Mont Blanc between Italy and France). Jungfraujoch, which marks the end of the  Jungfrau Railway.

Many European skiers will be familiar with the Jungfrau Region, as it has three alpine peaks. It’s also becoming increasingly popular among international snow lovers. Data shared by Travel + Leisure You can also read about how to get in touch with us. Switzerland TourismThe number of Americans visiting the Jungfrau Region during the ski season (November to April) has been increasing. The number of U.S. overnight visitors has increased from 14,347 in 2021-2022 to 37,965 in 2024-2025.

In the region, there are four ski resorts. charming mountain villages. The name might not be well-known yet, but you can rest assured that it is on its way to being one of the most popular. prime places to visit and ski in Switzerland. 

“Social media has definitely played a large role—images of the cogwheel railway trains winding up the mountains, the Top of EuropeOr Lauterbrunnen’s waterfalls Lorenz Maurer is the general manager for Wengen. Grand Hotel Belvedere, a Beaumier Hotel & Spa. Once people have seen it, they will want to experience it personally. The guests often bring their friends, families, and spouses back because they feel it is a discovery that should be shared.

The region has also seen some new hotels or ones that have recently been renovated. In 2024, there will be a total of ten hotels in the region. Grand Hotel Belvedere The doors of the new facility were opened in September. In the same year, Mürren Palace Reopened and debuted an gravity-defying Cable Car that connects with the Schilthornbahn, making it easier to reach Schilthorn Peak than ever before.

“The Schilthornbahn It’s been updated. There is a new section from Stechelberg to Mürren, which is the steepest in the world,” says Anouk Spiess, a ski instructor with the Swiss Ski School Mürren-Schilthorn. “That means that the Schilthorn is accessible 365 of the year.”

There are plenty of things to do, even if snow is not your thing. There are plenty of activities to do in the winter. sled, cross-country ski, or snowshoe. The holiday season in Switzerland can be quite spectacular, with its many Christmas markets and fondues, as well as mulled wine. But the Jungfrau region is also quite charming when it isn’t powdered with snow—all that alpine scenery makes for a fantastic place to hike and mountain bike in the spring and summer.

Maurer says, “The villages are very charming and have retained their character. The mountains are stunning but they are not dramatic.”

You should read this before you travel to the Jungfrau Region.

The Best Things to do

Play in snow.

The Jungfrau Region has three main skiing areas—Mürren-Schilthorn, Grindelwald-Wengen, and Grindelwald-First—and you conveniently only need one ski pass to access all of the lifts and gondolas. The Ski Pass Jungfrau The Bernese Oberland Railway also includes your arrival and depart via Interlaken Ost. A one-day pass costs 79 Swiss Francs (or around $100 USD). You can ski for 14 days at a cost of 670 Swiss Francs (around $840 USD). Meiringen and Hasliberg are smaller ski areas in the Jungfrau Region that are not included in the pass. 

Mürren-Schilthorn, with its 31 miles It is often described as the most technologically advanced ski area. The area is also known for its frequent appearances on television and film. Spiess mentions that “lots of guests” will ski in the same places as James Bond did, referring to the 1969 movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”.

Grindelwald/Wengen is the largest ski resort in the Jungfrau Region, boasting 64 miles of groomed slopes. “The mountains are diverse and great for mixed ability groups, families, or even large families. Because you can choose your level each day,” Maurer explains. Off-piste skiing and snowboarding is also available in some areas.

Lastly, Grindelwald-First has about 35 miles of runs and a snow park with a 426-foot-long, 18-foot-high halfpipe—perfect for winter athletes who want to practice their tricks and jumps. 

Visit the Jungfraujoch.

There are many activities that non-skiers can enjoy in the Jungfrau Region. There are many activities that non-skiers can enjoy in the Jungfrau Region. Jungfraujoch, or the “Top of Europe,” is Europe’s highest-altitude railway station—and one of the most iconic sites in all of Switzerland. From Kleine Scheidegg, you’ll take the Jungfrau Railway to reach the Jungfraujoch, where an “ice palace” inside a glacier and stunning views of the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch peaks await. 

The cable car will take you to Schilthorn, Piz Gloria.

A visit to Schilthorn – Piz Gloria Spiess says that it is essential. A fantastic brunch buffet is served on top. But this is not just any brunch. You’ll board the Schilthorn Gondola and zoom up to this 9,744-foot high revolving dining room. 360° Restaurant Piz Gloria. Incredible mountain vistas ensue.  

Enjoy winter landscapes.

The snowfall in Jungfrau Region isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders. You can also use the telescopic lifts to get down the slopes. velogemelGrindelwald is the Jungfrau village where a snowbike was invented. sledge. You can also rent cross-country ski equipment at a variety of shops In the area.

Take a walk. 

You should always include a hike in your itinerary when visiting this region of Switzerland. Winter hiking and snowshoeing is popular during the colder months. many trails throughout the region—ranging from short walks to longer, more strenuous hikes. Be sure to bring your waterproof boots and layers of clothing.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Grand Hotel Belvedere 

The Grand Hotel Belvedere opened its 90 rooms in Wengen In December 2024, construction will be complete on the various areas of the property. Since my visit in March of the following year, the team revealed their Japanese hot springs-inspired spa. At night, retire to the guest rooms that lean retro and feel deeply connected to the hotel’s Alpine heritage—the hotel’s two buildings date back to the early 20th century. 

Waldhuus Bellary

The film is billed as a “throwback to a time of adventure, fashion, and unforgettable moments.” Waldhuus Bellary Grindelwald The first guests will arrive in July 2025. It’s a casual space complete with all the modern comforts you’d need for a ski weekend—comfortable beds, clean bathrooms—and several of the rooms can fit up to four or five people. If you are bringing your group to the Jungfrau Region this is the ideal accommodation. 

Mürren Palace

The History of Mürren Palace It has been around for more than 150 year, but the newest chapter of its history began in 2024. The hotel offers a variety of room types, including a double room, a two-room option and a suite. It welcomes couples, solo travelers, small groups, and even families. 

Best Restaurants

La Fondue, Wengen

Maurer calls La Fondue at Hotel Silberhorn “A classic.” The standard fondue is delicious, but the Fondue Chinoise may be more appealing to you. It’s a hot pot-style Fondue served with chicken, beef, veal or mutton and pickled vegetables.

Suppenalp, Mürren

The place is a very beautiful spot right next to a ski slope or hiking trail. SuppenalpSpiess says that the restaurant has a mountain-like atmosphere. Its charm is partly due to the fact that you can only reach it on foot or by skis. The effort pays off, though; here, you’ll be able to dine on rösti (a traditional Swiss dish made of fried grated potatoes), schnitzel with French fries, and fondue. 

The Bus Stop Bar in Grindelwald

Gingerwald Mojitos, Hot Negronis and warm atmosphere are all part of the experience. The Bus Stop Bar in Grindelwald. When you see the orange vintage bus from the 60s, you know you are in Grindelwald. 

Hasenstall Bar, Wengen

For more of a lively après-ski scene, there’s Hasenstall Bar in Wengen. This is the place to go for a fun night out. There are drinks, music, pinball and darts as well as beer pong. 

The Best Time to Visit

Winter in Jungfrau Region begins in November and ends April. Those who are interested in skiing should aim to arrive in the middle. Plan your trip for January or February—after the holidays and while there’s still plenty of snow on the ground. If you want to avoid crowds, try to plan your trip around popular events in the area. The annual International Lauberhorn RacesFor example, in Wengen, in January. 

In the Jungfrau Region, shoulder season generally occurs between April and may as well as in September and October. Around this time, you can expect to find fewer people and lower prices at hotels. The area is still beautiful, even though there may not yet be any snow. It has alpine vistas as well as green meadows. Staubbach Falls are the third highest in Switzerland.

How to get There

The small village of Interlaken It is the first place you will visit if you are traveling from the U.S. Book a flight from the U.S. to Zurich Airport. From there, it’s easy to get around. grab a train to Interlaken Ost station—you may have to transfer in Bern or Lucerne. Spend a few days in Interlaken before taking the train from Lauterbrunnen. Interlaken is also known as “the adventure capital of Switzerland”.

In Lauterbrunnen you can board the Wengernalp Railway, the cogwheel train that will bring you to Wengen in about 12 minutes and then further on to Grindelwald via Kleine Scheidegg (the journey is about an hour and 45 minutes); there’s also a faster train, about 35 minutes total, to Grindelwald that connects through Zweilütschinen. To reach Mürren, take a bus to the Stechelberg gondola stationYou will be taken to the village of car-free. 

Places to visit

Grindelwald

“Grindelwald is the most lively—full of hotels, shops, and restaurants. It’s great if your goal is to be surrounded by energy and excitement, says Maurer. This is a great choice for people who love to have energy around them. winter activities Winter hiking, trail running and snowshoeing are all options outside of skiing. 

Mürren

Getting to the tiny, car-free village of Mürren is part of the adventure, and requires using public transport, bicycling, or walking. “Mürren is more remote. It is higher up and has incredible views. It feels like a secret. Perfect for people seeking peace,” says Maurer. 

Wengen

“Wengen has a small population and is car-free.” Maurer says that it is quiet and charming. It’s perfect for couples or families who want to experience the classic alpine experience. The scenery is also part of Wengen’s appeal; expect amazing views of the snow-capped Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch peaks.

Lauterbrunnen

You may not pass Lauterbrunnen if you are planning to spend the majority of your Swiss adventure ski trip there. “Lauterbrunnen is quite unique—set in the valley with huge cliffs and waterfalls,” says Mauer. It’s not just a skiing base. There are many hiking trails and people who enjoy nature. 

How to Get Around

There is no need to rent a car to explore the Jungfrau Region—especially since you can’t even drive to Wengen or Mürren. If you do not purchase the Ski Pass JungfrauYou can also get the Jungfrau Travel PassTickets for adults start at 210 Swiss francs (about $263) for three days, while tickets for children aged 6 to 15 are only 30 Swiss francs (about $38). Tickets for adults start at 210 Swiss Francs ($263) for three days. Children aged 6-15 pay only 30 Swiss Francs ($38) for travel from three to eight consecutive days. You can also download the SBB Mobile app To help you plan your routes, the ski pass is a great tool. The ski pass is the best option if you are skiing.