Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe
If Interlaken is the adventure capital of Switzerland, then Jungfraujoch is its crown jewel. Known as the “Top of Europe”, this high-altitude saddle between the Jungfrau and Mönch mountains sits at 3,454 meters (11,332 ft) and offers some of the most spectacular alpine views in the world. It’s not just a stop on the map, it’s a full-day journey worth every minute.
Early Morning: Train Journey to the Top
The day began early with a train from Interlaken toward either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, before switching at Kleine Scheidegg to board the legendary Jungfrau Railway.
This final stretch climbs steeply through tunnels inside the Eiger, with short stops at viewing windows carved into the rock face.
Watching the glaciers unfold through those openings built up the anticipation of reaching the summit station, the highest railway station in Europe.
👉 Tip: Sit on the right side of the train for the best views on the way up.
Highlights at Jungfraujoch
Once at the top, the air was crisp and thin, but the scenery immediately took my breath away. There are several must-see highlights here:
Sphinx Observatory
An elevator takes you up to this futuristic glass platform, where the panorama stretches across the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps and surrounding snow-capped peaks. It’s the ultimate photo spot.
Glacier Plateau
Step outside onto the Glacier Plateau, where you can walk on snow year-round. The wide-open views make it feel like you’re standing on top of the world. Even in summer, bring a jacket, it gets chilly!
Ice Palace
Carved directly inside the glacier, this labyrinth of tunnels and ice sculptures shimmers in shades of blue. It’s a surreal experience and a nice way to escape the crowds outside for a bit.
Alpine Sensations
This short but fascinating exhibition shares the history of the Jungfrau Railway and the determination of the workers who built it. It’s a great stop to learn the backstory of the journey.
👉 Tip: Weather at this altitude changes quickly so go early in the morning and check the forecast before booking. Clear skies make all the difference. This day trip takes about 7–8 hours round-trip, so set aside a full day for it.
Afternoon: Return to Interlaken
After several hours at the summit, I took the return journey down the mountain. The descent felt just as magical, with sweeping alpine views opening up at every turn.
By mid-afternoon, I was back in Interlaken, ready to relax after a morning of high-altitude adventure.
Evening: Relax in Town
Back at lake level, the evening was all about recovery and slowing down. I strolled through Höhematte Park, watched paragliders land against the backdrop of the Jungfrau, and ended the day with a hearty Swiss dinner in town.
Overnight: Interlaken
Spending the night in Interlaken was the perfect way to wrap up the day. Tomorrow promised more adventures, but for now, I was content to let the memories of glaciers and mountaintop views sink in.
Day 5 Summary:
- Morning: Train Interlaken → Jungfraujoch (via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald)
- Highlights: Sphinx Observatory, Glacier Plateau, Ice Palace, Alpine views
- Afternoon: Return to Interlaken
- Evening: Relax in town
- Overnight: Interlaken
