Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory: The Top of Europe
Discover the breathtaking views and stunning landscapes at Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory, the pinnacle of adventure in the Swiss Alps.
Perched at an altitude of 3,571 meters, the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and is a must-visit for tourists seeking an unforgettable experience in nature's grandeur.
A brief summary to Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory
- Jungfraujoch, Fieschertal, 3818, CH
- Visit website
- Monday 7:35 am-4:43 pm
- Tuesday 7:35 am-4:43 pm
- Wednesday 7:35 am-4:43 pm
- Thursday 7:35 am-4:43 pm
- Friday 7:35 am-4:43 pm
- Saturday 7:35 am-4:43 pm
- Sunday 7:35 am-4:43 pm
Local tips
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly at high altitudes.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as visibility can change quickly.
- Consider purchasing tickets in advance to secure your spot on the scenic train.
- Take some time to explore the exhibitions inside the observatory for a deeper understanding of the region.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Interlaken and follow signs to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. From there, continue to the valley station of the Jungfrau Railway in either Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. Park your car in designated parking areas, as there are no vehicles allowed at Jungfraujoch itself. The Jungfrau Railway does not have direct connections from every location, so you will need to take a train from either Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to reach the Jungfraujoch station.
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Train from Grindelwald
At Grindelwald station, purchase a ticket to Jungfraujoch. The journey includes a scenic train ride to Kleine Scheidegg, where you will transfer to the cogwheel train heading to Jungfraujoch. The entire trip takes approximately 30 minutes from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg, and another 30 minutes from there to Jungfraujoch. Ensure you check the train schedules beforehand, as they can vary throughout the day. The cost for a round trip from Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch is approximately CHF 100-120, depending on the season.
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Train from Lauterbrunnen
If you are in Lauterbrunnen, start your journey at Lauterbrunnen station. Purchase a ticket to Jungfraujoch, which will require a transfer at Kleine Scheidegg. The train ride from Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg takes about 40 minutes, and then transfer to the cogwheel train to reach Jungfraujoch, which takes an additional 30 minutes. The total travel time is around 1.5 hours. The cost for a round trip from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch is similar to that from Grindelwald, around CHF 100-120.
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Final Transfer to Sphinx Observatory
Once you arrive at Jungfraujoch station, follow the signs to the Sphinx Observatory, which is a short walk from the station. The observatory is located at an altitude of 3,571 meters and offers spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks. Be prepared for colder temperatures and bring appropriate clothing. The observatory is usually open from 7:35 AM to 4:43 PM daily, so plan your visit accordingly.