The ultimate 5-day guide to Switzerland's Jungfrau region

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Switzerland's Jungfrau Region, with majestic peaks, alpine villages, and thrilling outdoor activities.
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Yessica Klein
Mar 10, 2025·11 min read
The ultimate 5-day guide to Switzerland's Jungfrau region

Nestled just south of Bern, Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region is a stunning showcase of natural beauty, featuring majestic snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear blue lakes, and charming alpine villages. This enchanting area promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the Jungfrau Region can be costly, so choose your alpine adventure well and remember that there are always budget-friendly solutions for enjoying these top attractions. Discover how to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank, and immerse yourself in this iconic Swiss destination’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.

Day 1: Take it easy in Interlaken

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Explore Interlaken’s stunning views and breathe in Jungfrau region mountain air.

Interlaken is the starting point for most alpine adventures in Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region. The mountains can wait, as today is all about checking out this famous resort town. First up, stroll alongside the turquoise water of the River Aare. You can board an age-old paddle steamer and cruise around the mountain-lined Lake Brienz. It’s the perfect introduction to the beautiful scenery of the Jungfrau region. Once back on dry land in Interlaken, you’re just a short walk from the Harderbahn. Dating back to 1908, this gravity-defying funicular whisks you to the summit of Harder Kulm in only eight minutes. From the top, you’re greeted with stunning views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Add an extra dose of wow to the experience by heading here at sunset.

Outdoor activities in Interlaken

Day 2: Visit the Top of Adventure

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Head to Grindelwald to see the picture-perfect mountain village in person.

The mountains are calling! Start day two of your Jungfrau Travel Pass adventure with a scenic train ride from Interlaken to Grindelwald. You’ll quickly realize why this picture-perfect village is on everyone’s Swiss bucket list. As soon as you step off the train, you’re greeted with cuter-than-cute chalets and a highly snappable mountain backdrop. Meander your way through the village to Firstbahn. There, you can take a gondola up 3,608 feet (1,100 meters) to the summit of First. Billed as the “Top of Adventure,” First is home to plenty of activities to keep thrillseekers happy. First has everything from head-rushing zip lines to a vertigo-inducing cliff walk. Hikers are also in their element at the summit. From there, travelers can trek to the Bachalpsee, a gorgeous glacial lake. It can be reached in around an hour, depending on how many times you stop to photograph the scenery!

Find nature and adventure in Grindelwald

Day 3: Explore the Jungfrau Region's waterfall wonderland

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Swing by the Staubbach Falls and marvel at nature's majesty before snapping a pic for the 'gram.

Today’s all about picture-perfect alpine towns and cascading waterfalls. Hop on a train in Interlaken, and within 30 minutes, you’ll be snapping your way around the super ‘grammable village of Lauterbrunnen. Chances are you’ve seen pics on social media of Lauterbrunnen’s dust-like Staubbach Falls (arguably the most famous of the valley’s 72 waterfalls), but it’s even more impressive up close. For more waterfall awesomeness, head across the valley to the Trümmelbach Falls. Here, you’ll find ten powerful glacial waterfalls roaring through the inside of a mountain. It’s quite a sight. Back in Lauterbrunnen, you’re just a short gondola or train ride away from the car-free villages of Wengen and Mürren, which overlook mountain peaks and the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Explore Switzerland's Jungfrau region

Day 4: Travel back to the 19th century

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All aboard this old-fashioned locomotive for a slow trip to the summit of Schynige.

Live life in the slow lane for the day with a trip to Schynige Platte. The route from Wilderswil to the summit of Schynige is only 4.5 miles (7.25 km), but the 19th-century train takes 70 minutes to reach the top. You sure won’t be complaining about the slow pace, however. The journey is one of the most scenic in the region and comes with views of Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, and heaps of mountains, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Once at the summit, you’re spoiled for things to do. Hike through alpine meadows that burst with color, see over 650 plant species in the peak’s Botanical Alpine Garden, or kick back and snap the views from the restaurant. If you visit in the summertime, you’ll also get to enjoy traditional Swiss music, as Alphorn players belt out tunes between 11 AM and 2 PM daily.

Hike around Switzerland's Jungfrau region

Day 5: Journey to Europe’s highest railway station

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Head to the Jungfraujoch to finish your Jungfrau region adventure.

The star of Switzerland’s Jungfrau region is undoubtedly the Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe. Standing at a staggering 11,332 feet (3,454 meters) above sea level, the station really has to be seen to be believed. The whole route from Interlaken is an astonishing feat of engineering that clings to the edge of cliffs and even cuts through the Eiger. Your Jungfrau Travel Pass covers a large chunk of the two-hour journey. But you’ll need an additional ticket for the final leg of the trip from Eigergletscher to the Jungfraujoch. However, your travel pass does secure you a large discount. Once you arrive at the station, you’re free to explore a wintery world, which includes an ice palace, golf hole, and unbeatable views of the Aletsch Glacier and beyond.

Discover the Jungfraujoch

FAQs

What is the best base in the Jungfrau Region?

Wengen, Grindelwald, and Mürren are ideal bases in the Jungfrau Region. These charming villages offer easy access to attractions and hiking trails. However, accommodation can fill up quickly, especially in August, so it's advisable to book early.

What is the difference between Jungfrau and Jungfraujoch?

Jungfrau refers to the mountain in the Bernese Alps, while Jungfraujoch is the high-altitude pass connecting the Jungfrau and Mönch mountains. Located at 3,454 meters above sea level, Jungfraujoch is also known for its railway station, which is the highest in Europe. The two terms are often confused, but they describe distinct features of the region.

What activities are available in Jungfrau during the winter?

The Jungfrau region offers a variety of winter activities, including snowshoe tours and cross-country ski trails for outdoor enthusiasts. For thrill-seekers, tackle the challenging Lauberhorn downhill run or explore winter trail running. If relaxation is on your agenda, unwind at a local spas. Additionally, scenic winter routes are perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst the snowy landscape.

Is it possible to visit both Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch in a single day?

Yes, it's feasible to explore both Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch in one day. Start with a 15-minute cable car ride from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier. From there, a 30-minute train journey will take you to Jungfraujoch. This route offers a quick and scenic way to experience both destinations within a day.

What’s the Jungfrau Travel Pass?

This three- to eight-day transport ticket gives you huge discounts on a whole host of alpine awesomeness, including mountain funiculars and gondola rides (read: cable cars). To activate your pass, just exchange your voucher for the ticket at any regional train station. You’re then free to hop on any form of transport on any route that’s included in the pass. Exploring peaks has never been so easy — and cheap! To get you in the mood, this is the perfect five-day itinerary to make the most of your ticket.

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