Jungfrau itinerary: 20 things to do in Jungfrau region

Ready to explore the best things to do in the Jungfrau region? I’ve handpicked the top places to visit in this Jungfrau itinerary, based on my own experiences.

The Jungfrau region is the most beautiful place in Switzerland. Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Jungfrau is filled with snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls and charming alpine villages. Basically, everything you imagine when you think of Switzerland.

There’s a lot of see and do in the area, so it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

In this post, you’ll find a comprehensive Jungfrau itinerary with the best things to do in the area. From the iconic Jungfraujoch to the picturesque villages of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, I’ll show you the best of what this region has to offer.

Let’s dive in.

What is the Jungfrau Region?

The Jungfrau region is located in the canton of Bernese Oberland in Switzerland. It’s named after the most famous peak in the region, the Jungfraujoch, which is also known as Top of Europe.

The Jungfrau region stretches from Interlaken in the north to the Jungfrau mountain range in the south. The area is home to several picturesque towns and villages, each with its own charm and attractions.

Map of Jungfrau

On the map below, you can find all the places listed in this post. They’re listed from 1-20, and you can locate each of them by simply clicking the number on the map. Use the + and – in the corner to zoom.

The area names

Honestly, when I visited I was confused by some of the area names that sound the same, but are different places – like Jungfrau and Jungfraujoch or Grindelwald and Grindelwald First. So lets take a look at where we are first.

• Jungfrau is the name of a summit (4,158 meters) in the Bernese Alps.
• Jungfrau region is an area that covers popular towns like Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken and Grindelwald.
• Jungfraujoch is the name of a mountain col and it’s the highest train station in Europe (3454m).
• The Bernese Oberland is the mountain area in Jungfrau and it basically means the Highland of Bern because this part of the Alps is close to the city of Bern.
• Grindelwald is a valley and a town, whereas Grindelwald First is a summit that can be reached by cable car and is famous for hiking. There is not a Second, Third or Fourth summit, in case you were wondering.

Jungfrau itinerary

How much time to spend in Jungfrau

If you want to experience everything on this list, you’ll need one week. You can easily visit several of the places in one day. For instance, on your way back from Jungfraujoch, you’ll pass Kleine Scheidegg, Grindelwald and/or Lauterbrunnen.

The places mentioned in this Jungfrau region itinerary are located close to each other and it’s easy to get around with train.

🧊 Want the highlights of the Jungfrau region? Check out my 3 days in Interlaken itinerary.

Where to stay in Jungfrau

With picturesque valleys, snow-capped mountains, and charming towns like Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen, there are many places to stay during your trip. Let’s take a look at the top 3 :

Town	Benefit	Hotel
Lauterbrunnen	Peaceful valley with waterfalls and hiking trails	Valley Hostel (⭐ 8.9)
Grindelwald	Larger alpine village with views and snow activities	Boutique Hotel Glacier (⭐ 8.9)
Interlaken	Best base for exploring the Jungfrau Region, more cosmopolitan and adventure sports	Hotel Interlaken (⭐ 8.6)

Getting around in Jungfrau

The best and quickest way to get around the Jungfrau region is by train. The Swiss rail network is efficient and reliable, and you can get there from any major city in Switzerland.

The closest major city in the region is Interlaken, which is located at the foot of the mountains. From Interlaken, you can take a train to anywhere in the Jungfrau region.

If you’re planning to explore the region, I highly recommend getting a Swiss Travel Pass, which will save you money on transport. The pass also gives you up to 50%  discounts on attractions and activities, so it’s a great option if you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Jungfrau region is during the summer months from May to early October. During this time, the weather is mild and the snow has melted, so you can better explore the area.

If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in May or October. The weather may be cooler, but you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery without the crowds. Just keep in mind that some hiking trails may be closed during this time.

If you’re interested in winter sports, then the best time to visit is from December to March. During this time, the area is covered in snow, and you can go skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. Just be prepared for colder temperatures and shorter days.

Read next: 12 dreamy things to do in Lauterbrunnen in winter

switzerland itinerary

20 things to do in the Jungfrau region

1. Jungfraujoch

If you’re visiting the Jungfrau region, Jungfraujoch should be at the top of your list.

Nicknamed ‘Top of Europe’, it’s located at an altitude of 3,454 metres above sea level, which makes it the highest railway station in Europe. With a unique train ride, stunning views of the Swiss Alps, a cool ice palace, the longest glacier in the Alps, and plenty of snow adventures, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t forget.

Tickets to Jungfraujoch is high in demand so make sure to book your tickets in advance. I recommend booking 3 weeks prior to your trip.

2. Aletsch Glacier

At Jungfraujoch, you’ll find the Aletsch Glacier. It’s the largest in the Alps, stretching over 23km and covering an area of 120 square km.

The glacier is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gives you stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

If you’re interested in learning more about the glacier, you can visit the Aletsch Glacier Exhibition, which is located at the top of the Eggishorn cable car. The exhibition provides information about the history and formation of the glacier, as well as the impact of climate change on the glacier.

3. Kleine Scheidegg

Situated at an altitude of 2,061 metres, Kleine Scheidegg is a mountain pass between the Eiger and Lauberhorn peaks. At the top, you’ll get stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which makes it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

One of the most popular hikes is the challenging Eiger Trail, which takes you along the base of the Eiger North Face. If you’re looking for something a bit more leisurely, you can take a stroll along the Panorama Trail.

Kleine Scheidegg is also a popular starting point for paragliding and other outdoor activities.

4. Schilthorn (James Bond)

If you’re looking for breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, Schilthorn is a must-visit destination. This mountain peak stands at 2,970 metres and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

Once you reach Schilthorn, you can enjoy the views from the observation deck or take a walk on the Thrill Walk, a 200-metre-long walkway with glass panels that offer a vertigo-inducing view of the mountains below.

One of the highlights of a visit to Schilthorn is the revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria. This restaurant offers 360-degree views of the mountains and the valley below, and it rotates once every 45 minutes, giving you a constantly changing view. The restaurant also offers a range of delicious Swiss dishes, including cheese fondue, raclette, and rösti.

You may have seen Schilthorn in the 1969 James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. You can visit the Bond World 007 exhibition at Piz Gloria, which showcases the making of the film and features interactive exhibits and memorabilia.

5. Männlichen

Männlichen is a mountain peak that can be reached by cable car and gondola. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

There are several hiking trails that start at Männlichen, including the famous Royal Walk. This trail takes you to a viewpoint where you can see the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The trail is well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels.

If hiking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to do at Männlichen. You can walk along the Panorama Trail which has stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There’s also a playground for children and a restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.

6. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is my favourite place in the Jungfrau region. This picturesque valley is known for its stunning waterfalls, charming houses, and breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.

The most popular thing to do in Lauterbrunnen is chasing waterfalls. There are 72 waterfalls in total, but I’ve made it easy for you with this list of the 10 best waterfalls.

You’ll find the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of 10 waterfalls, located inside a mountain, and the impressive Staubbach falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe.

7. Eiger Trail

If you’re up for a challenging hike with stunning views of the Swiss Alps, visit the Eiger Trail. This point-to-point hike starts at Eigergletscher (Eiger Glacier Station) and ends in Alpiglen. It’s a mostly downhill walk if you do the hike in this direction.

The trail is about 6.5 km long and takes around 2 hours to complete. The terrain is rocky and uneven, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water. The trail is closed during the winter months due to snow and ice.

8. Grindelwald and Grindelwald First

Grindelwald is a beautiful Swiss village and one of the most visited places in the Jungfrau Region. The most popular attraction in Grindelwald is Grindelwald First, a mountain peak which you can get to with the Firstbahn gondola from the Grindelwald Station.

At the top, you’ll find several activities, including:

• The First Flyer, a zip line that takes you soaring through the air at speeds of up to 84 kilometres per hour.
• The First Glider, a hang gliding simulator that lets you experience the sensation of flying.
• The Cliff Walk, a suspension bridge that spans a 40-metre drop and offers amazing views of the mountains.
• The Trotti bike, a fun and easy-to-ride scooter that you can take down the mountain.

9. Bachalpsee

At Grindelwald First, I highly recommend that you visit Bachalpsee – the most stunning alpine lake in the Jungfrau region. The hike takes about 50 minutes and is well-marked and relatively easy. Along the way, you’ll pass through alpine meadows and forests before reaching the crystal-clear waters of Bachalpsee.

The best time to visit Bachalpsee is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is mild and the trail is free of snow.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

10. Gimmelwald

If you’re looking for a rustic, off-the-beaten-path destination in Switzerland, Gimmelwald is definitely worth considering.

This small village is located in the heart of the Bernese Alps and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

One of the best things about Gimmelwald is its peaceful atmosphere. It’s a car-free village, so you can enjoy a quiet walk through the streets and look at the traditional Swiss chalets without any traffic noise.

11. Mürren

Another nearby, car-free mountain town is Mürren. Situated on top of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, at 1,638m (5,374ft) above sea level, Mürren is a peaceful and scenic getaway from everyday life.

From here, you can take the cable car up to Schilthorn, go paragliding, or hike to nearby villages like Gimmelwald.

Another highlight of Mürren is the Allmendhubel funicular. This historic railway takes you up to a beautiful alpine garden with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. There’s also a playground and picnic area, making it a great spot for families.

12. Wengen

Wengen is also a car-free village, surrounded by stunning mountain views.

One of the best ways to explore Wengen is by taking a ride on the Wengernalp Railway, which is the longest continuous cogwheel railway in the world. The railway takes you past beautiful waterfalls, forests and stunning views of the mountains.

Wengen is also a great starting point for hiking trails, including the famous Eiger Trail.

If you’re visiting in the winter, Wengen offers access to some of the best skiing in the region. The ski area offers a variety of slopes for all levels, and there are plenty of ski schools and rental shops in the village.

13. St. Beatus Caves

A slightly different attraction is the St. Beatus Caves. Located high above Lake Thun, near Interlaken, these caves are known for their stunning geological formations and fascinating history.

The St. Beatus Caves are actually one of the largest cave systems in the Alps, with roughly 14 km of the extensive cave system mapped so far. You can explore around one kilometre of this on your own when you visit. As you make your way through the caves, you’ll see a variety of unique rock formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes.

The caves are named after St. Beatus, a 6th century monk who, according to legend, hunted and defeated a dragon that had taken refuge in the caves. The story of St. Beatus and the dragon is depicted in a series of dioramas throughout the cave system.

14. Lake Thun

Lake Thun is a relaxing day trip from Interlaken. This beautiful lake is surrounded by mountain scenery, fairytale castles, and charming towns, so it’s the perfect place to unwind.

Thun Old Town Walking Tour

Start your day by exploring the historic town of Thun. Take a walking tour of the old town to discover its medieval architecture and charming streets. You can visit the castle or simply wander around the town and enjoy the views of the lake and mountains.

Oberhofen Castle

After your tour of Thun, head to the nearby Oberhofen castle. This 13th-century castle sits right on the shores of Lake Thun and it looks like something from a fairytale. You can take a tour of the castle to learn about its history and see its impressive collection of antiques.

Spiez

Next, make your way to the charming town of Spiez. This town is known for its beautiful castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the lake.

You can visit the castle or simply enjoy the views from the town’s waterfront promenade. Spiez also has a lovely old town with narrow streets and historic buildings.

15. Mount Niesen

If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, consider taking a trip up Mount Niesen. You can take a funicular railway to the top, where you’ll find a restaurant and observation deck. From here, you’ll get panoramic views of the region.

16. Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) is located on the east (opposite) side of Interlaken. Some of the best things to do at Lake Brienz is to:

• Take a boat ride: A boat ride on Lake Brienz is a great way to relax and take in the stunning scenery. The boat ride is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, so it’s totally free!
• Visit Brienz: Brienz is a charming village known for its wood carving tradition. Take a walk along the lake and admire the Swiss wooden chalets dotted on the lush mountainside.
• Go kayaking: If you’re visiting during the summer months, explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Brienz in your own kayak. In the winter, you can take a winter kayak tour.
• Go hiking: There are plenty of hiking trails around Lake Brienz, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Giessbach Falls trail is particularly popular, with stunning views of the waterfall and the lake.

17. Adventure Sports in Interlaken

Do you love adventures? Then you’ll want to visit Interlaken, also known as Europe’s adventure hub. Here are some of the top adventure sports that you can try in Interlaken:

Skydiving

Interlaken is considered one of the best places in the world for skydiving. You can jump out of a plane at 4,000 meters and experience the thrill of free-falling for almost a minute!

Bungee Jumping

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping in Interlaken. You can jump from a height of 134 meters from a platform suspended over a gorge. The jump is not for the faint-hearted, but the feeling of free-falling and rebounding back up is incredible.

Paragliding

Interlaken is also an excellent destination for paragliding. You can soar over the Swiss Alps while enjoying the mountains and lakes.

Canyoning

If you’re looking for an adventure that involves water, then canyoning is the perfect activity for you. You can explore the gorges and waterfalls of the Swiss Alps while jumping, sliding, and abseiling down the rocks. Canyoning requires some physical fitness, but the experience is worth it.

You can also dive into the depths of the Grindelwald gorge on an exhilarating Canyon Swing – if you dare.

River Rafting

Interlaken is an excellent destination for river rafting. You can navigate the rapids of the Lütschine River and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced rafters, and it’s a fun way to spend a day with friends or family.

18. Harder Kulm

You’ll get the best panoramic views of the Jungfrau region from Harder Kulm. It’s an easy trip from Interlaken.

The funicular ride takes just 10 minutes, during which you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with a sensational view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

In addition to the stunning views, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Harder Kulm. Here are a few things you can expect to see:

• A thrilling viewing deck that extends out over the mountainside
• A restaurant where you can have a meal or a drink while taking in the views
• A live folklore show (during the summer months)
• If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even venture onto the overhanging Zwei-Seen-Steg (Two Lakes Bridge) for an even more panoramic view of the mountains and lakes below.

Harder Kulm is open from April to November, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. Get your ticket here.

19. Schynige Platte

Schynige Platte is another viewpoint in the Jungfrau region where you can get beautiful views of the Swiss Alps.

You can either hike from Grindelwald-First to Schynige Platte in about 6 hours (strenuous hike) or take the Schynige Platte Railway to the summit station and enjoy the breathtaking views of forests, Alpine pastures and Lakes Thun and Brienz.

20. Reichenbach Falls (Sherlock Holmes)

Lastly, if you’re a fan of Sherlock Holmes, then you have to visit Reichenbach Falls. The waterfall is located near the town of Meiringen and it’s known from “The Final Problem,” where Holmes and his arch-nemesis, Professor Moriarty, supposedly fell to their deaths at the falls.

You can take a funicular railway up to the falls. The falls themselves are a seven-tiered waterfall that cascades down the rocks – truly spectacular.

🕵️‍♂️ In Meiringen, you can visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum, which is dedicated to the famous detective and his creator, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. You can also see a statue of Holmes in the town square and follow a “Sherlock Holmes trail” that takes you to various locations mentioned in the stories.

Jungfrau itinerary FAQ

Read more posts from Switzerland

• Interlaken itinerary: 1-3 days in Interlaken Switzerland
• A brilliant one day in Grindelwald itinerary
• The ultimate guide to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• An amazing one day in Spiez Switzerland
• How to visit the beautiful Oberhofen castle in Switzerland
• Where to stay in Interlaken
• 10 Lauterbrunnen waterfalls you can’t miss
• A spectacular one day in Lauterbrunnen itinerary

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