This Destination Is Home to the ‘Top of Europe’ and the Highest Train Station On the Continent

Switzerland might be relatively small, but there are an incredible number of scenic towns and sites to explore in the country. And there’s one Alpine region that’s largely flown under the radar until quite recently.

The Jungfrau Region is situated in the Bernese Highlands, an area in southwest Switzerland that’s known for its glacial lakes, waterfalls, and stunning valleys. There are three distinct mountains: the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch peaks. Although it isn’t quite the highest point on the continent (that distinction would go to Mont Blanc, located between Italy and France), it is home to the highest train station, located between Jungfrau and Mönch on the Jungfraujoch, which marks the end of the Jungfrau Railway and is known as the “Top of Europe.”

Many European skiers are already, no doubt, quite familiar with the Jungfrau Region because of its three Alpine peaks. However, it’s slowly becoming popular among international snow bunnies as well. According to data shared with Travel + Leisure by Switzerland Tourism, the number of visitors coming from the U.S. to the Jungfrau Region for ski season (November through April) is on the rise. From the 2021–2022 to 2024–2025 ski seasons, the number of overnight U.S. visitors increased by 166.5 percent, from 14,347 to 37,965.

There are four ski areas within the region, as well as a collection of several charming mountain villages. While the area might not have global name recognition just yet, it’s safe to say it’s on its way to becoming one of the best 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 Europe, or Lauterbrunnen’s waterfalls are hard to resist,” says Lorenz Maurer, the area general manager of Wengen’s Grand Hotel Belvedere, a Beaumier Hotel & Spa. “Once people see it, they want to experience it in person… Guests often come back with friends, family, and spouses because it really feels like a discovery worth sharing.”

There have also been a few exciting hospitality additions to the region in recent years. The Grand Hotel Belvedere opened its doors in December 2024. That same year, the Mürren Palace reopened and debuted a gravity-defying cable car that connects to the Schilthornbahn cable car, making it easier than ever to reach Schilthorn peak.

“The Schilthornbahn got a refresh. 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 the Schilthorn will be accessible 365 days a year.”

Even if you’re not into snow, there’s plenty to do in the area. If you visit in the winter, there are many opportunities to sled, cross-country ski, or snowshoe. And needless to say, the holiday season in Switzerland is quite stunning, with Christmas markets, fondue, and mulled wine aplenty. The Jungfrau Region is also quite charming when it isn’t covered with snow—all that Alpine scenery makes a fantastic place to hike and mountain bike in the spring and summer.

“The mountains are dramatic, but the villages have kept their charm and character and are still very down to earth,” Maurer says.

Here’s what you need to know before visiting the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland.

Best Things to Do

Play in the 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 also covers your arrival and departure via the Bernese Oberland Railway from Interlaken Ost. A one-day pass costs 79 Swiss francs (about $100) per person, while 14 days of skiing will run you 670 Swiss francs (about $845). There’s also another smaller ski area in the Jungfrau Region, Meiringen-Hasliberg, but it’s not included in the pass. 

Mürren-Schilthorn, with its 31 miles of ski slopes, is typically described as the most advanced of the areas. It’s also notable for its appearances on the big screen. “Lots of guests will ski where James Bond was skiing,” says Spiess, referencing the 1969 film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.”

On the other hand, Grindelwald-Wengen, with 64 miles of groomed runs, is the largest ski area in the Jungfrau Region. “Because the mountains are so diverse, it’s also great for families and groups with mixed abilities because you really can choose the level you want each day,” Maurer says. There are also places where skiers and boarders can explore off-piste terrain.

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

Visit the Jungfraujoch.

While the slopes are the top priority for many travelers exploring the Jungfrau Region in the winter, there are other activities for non-skiers to enjoy. The Jungfraujoch, also called the “Top of Europe,” is home to Europe’s highest-altitude railway station and one of the most iconic sites in all of Switzerland. From Kleine Scheidegg, you can 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. 

Ride the cable car up to Schilthorn – Piz Gloria.

“A visit to Schilthorn – Piz Gloria is a must,” says Spiess. “On the top, a fantastic brunch buffet will be served.” This is no ordinary brunch, though. After boarding the Schilthorn gondola, you’ll zoom up to the 9,744-foot-high revolving restaurant, where you can take in incredible mountain views.  

Enjoy the winter landscapes.

You don’t necessarily have to ski or snowboard to take advantage of the snowfall in the Jungfrau Region. Make your way down the slopes via velogemel, a snowbike that was invented and patented in the Jungfrau village of Grindelwald, or a sledge. Cross-country skiing is also an option, and you can rent equipment from a variety of shops in the area.

Go for a hike. 

No matter when you visit this part of Switzerland, a hike should be on the agenda. Both winter hiking and snowshoeing are popular during the colder months. There are many trails throughout the region, ranging from short walks to longer, more strenuous hikes. Just be sure to layer up and bring waterproof hiking boots.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Grand Hotel Belvedere 

Comprising two buildings that date back to the early 20th century, the 90-key Grand Hotel Belvedere offers guest rooms that lean retro and feel deeply connected to the hotel’s Alpine heritage. The hotel has a chic brasserie and a Japanese hot spring-inspired spa—after a long day of skiing or snowboarding, the sauna, hammam, and ice bath may be just what your tired legs need.

Waldhuus Bellary Grindelwald

Billed as “a throwback to an era of adventure, style, and unforgettable experiences,” the Waldhuus Bellary opened to guests in July 2025. It’s a casual space complete with all the modern comforts you’d need for a ski weekend—think comfortable beds and clean bathrooms—and several rooms can fit up to four or five people. In other words, if you’re bringing your crew to the Jungfrau Region, this could be the perfect fit. 

Mürren Palace

The history of Mürren Palace dates back to 1874, but it officially entered its newest chapter at the end of 2024. With a range of accommodation categories, from classic double rooms to apartment-style suites, the hotel welcomes solo travelers, couples, and small groups (the largest option sleeps six adults). 

Best Restaurants

La Fondue, Wengen

Maurer calls La Fondue at Hotel Silberhorn “a true classic.” While you can certainly opt for the standard fondue, you may find the protein-packed hot pot-style Fondue Chinoise (served with beef, veal, chicken, and pickled vegetables) a bit more appealing.

Suppenalp, Mürren

“A very charming place next to the ski slope (or hiking path) is the Suppenalp, a small restaurant with a lovely mountain feeling,” says Spiess. Part of its charm lies in the fact that it can only be reached on foot or on 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, Grindelwald

Come for the photo ops and warm atmosphere, stay for the Gingerwald Mojitos and Hot Negronis at The Bus Stop Bar in Grindelwald. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot the vintage orange bus from the 1960s. 

Hasenstall Bar, Wengen

For more of a lively après-ski scene, there’s Hasenstall Bar in Wengen. Here, you’ll find music, beer pong, pinball, darts, and, of course, drinks, so consider this your go-to spot when you’re in the mood for a night out. 

Best Time To Visit

The winter season in the Jungfrau Region starts in November and ends in April. Those interested in skiing should aim to arrive right in the middle of that timeline. Plan your trip for January or February—after the holidays and while there’s still plenty of snow on the ground. Just be sure to time your visit around some of the region’s popular events if you want to avoid crowds and higher hotel prices. The annual International Lauberhorn Races, for example, are held in Wengen in January. 

Shoulder season in the Jungfrau Region generally runs between April and May, as well as September and October. You can expect fewer crowds and lower hotel prices around this time. Although there may not be snow on the ground, the area still charms with its Alpine vistas, green meadows, and waterfalls, such as Staubbach Falls, the third-highest waterfall in Switzerland.

How to Get There

The small town of Interlaken is considered the gateway to the Jungfrau Region, so it will be your first port of call. If you’re traveling from the U.S., book a flight to Zurich Airport (ZRH). From there, you can easily grab a train to the Interlaken Ost station—note, however, that you may have to transfer in Bern or Lucerne. Feel free to spend a day or two in Interlaken, also known as the “adventure capital of Switzerland,” before taking the train to Lauterbrunnen.

In Lauterbrunnen, you can board the Wengernalp Railway, the cogwheel train that will bring you to Wengen in 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 to Grindelwald that connects through Zweilütschinen, which takes about 35 minutes total. To reach Mürren, take a bus to the Stechelberg gondola station, which will bring you to the car-free village. 

Towns to Visit

Grindelwald

“Grindelwald is the most lively—full of hotels, shops, and restaurants. It’s ideal if you like having energy and excitement around you,” says Maurer. It’s also a solid choice for travelers who want to embrace winter activities outside of just skiing, including hiking, trail running, sledging, and snowshoeing. 

Mürren

Getting to the tiny, car-free village of Mürren is part of the adventure and requires using public transportation, bicycling, or walking. “Mürren is more remote. It sits higher up with unbelievable views. It feels like a bit of a secret, perfect for people who want peace,” says Maurer. 

Wengen

“Wengen is small and car-free,” says Maurer. “Quiet and charming, it’s great for families or couples who want that classic Alpine experience.” The scenery is also part of Wengen’s appeal; expect amazing views of the snowcapped Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch peaks.

Lauterbrunnen

If you plan on spending most of your Swiss adventure skiing, you may only pass through this town. “Lauterbrunnen is quite unique—set in the valley with huge cliffs and waterfalls,” says Mauer. “It’s not a ski base, but more for people who love nature and hiking.” 

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 don’t purchase the Ski Pass Jungfrau, you can get the Jungfrau Travel Pass, which allows for unlimited travel on the area’s railways, trains, cable cars, and boats. Adult tickets start at 210 Swiss francs (about $263) for three days, while tickets for children ages six to 15 are just 30 Swiss francs (about $38) for three to eight days of travel. I’d also recommend downloading the SBB Mobile app to help plan your routes between villages. If you’re skiing, though, the ski pass is the way to go.