aventuro Back to map A
Places of interest

Jungfraujoch

4.8 · 9,066 reviews
Cold, clinical, and awe-inspiring
Jungfraujoch, 3801 Jungfraujoch, Switzerland
Interesting facts
1

The railway tunnel through the Eiger and Mönch mountains took 16 years to construct, with completion reached in 1912.

2

The Sphinx Observatory is home to a high-altitude research station involved in global atmosphere monitoring.

3

The Ice Palace was created in the 1930s by mountain guides who hand-carved the tunnels using ice axes and saws.

4

Temperatures at the summit typically hover near or below freezing, regardless of the season.

5

The Aletsch Glacier, visible from the plateau, contains approximately 11 billion tons of ice.

6

Because of the extreme altitude, the oxygen level is roughly 30% lower than at sea level.

Overview

Jungfraujoch is a high-alpine saddle located between the Jungfrau and Mönch peaks in the Bernese Alps, housing the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters. The site serves as a gateway to the Aletsch Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the longest glacier in the Alps. Visitors access the summit via the Eiger Express tricable gondola or the rack railway system. The complex features the Sphinx Observatory, one of the world's highest astronomical observation stations. Internal attractions include the Ice Palace, carved directly into the glacier, and the Alpine Sensation exhibition documenting the railway's construction history. The area maintains year-round snow cover and offers panoramic views extending to the Vosges mountains and the Black Forest. Visitors move between viewing platforms through a network of tunnels blasted into the mountain rock.

Photo spot

The outdoor Sphinx Terrace for panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding peaks.

Insider tips

Wear layered clothing and sunglasses, as the reflection of sunlight off the snow is intense.

Stay hydrated to help your body acclimatize to the sudden change in altitude.

Allow extra time for your visit if you are sensitive to altitude, as physical activity can be tiring here.

What to avoid

Do not rush your visit; walking quickly at this altitude causes rapid exhaustion.

Etiquette

Avoid running or strenuous exercise to prevent altitude sickness; remain on marked paths for safety.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in summer, when the sky is clearest and crowds are thinner.
Address
Jungfraujoch, 3801 Jungfraujoch, Switzerland
46.547, 7.982
Get directions
Details
Key attractionsSphinx Observatory, Ice Palace, Aletsch Glacier views
Altitude3,454 meters

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in summer, when the sky is clearest and crowds are thinner..

The outdoor Sphinx Terrace for panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding peaks.

Close by you'll find Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory, Ice Palace Jungfraujoch, Trümmelbach Falls.