Curator’s statement
A comprehensive trip to Switzerland would not be complete without a visit to the Jungfrau region. From exploring massive glaciers, to wandering around picturesque villages that inspired authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, to taking flight through the majestic Alps in a paraglider, there is something for everyone here. Pictures truly do not do this destination justice: be forewarned that you may leave wondering whether your trip to this gorgeous area of Switzerland was real or just an otherworldly dream.
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Where to stay in the Swiss Alps: Jungfrau Region
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Things to do in the Swiss Alps: Jungfrau Region
Hiking
If the weather is decent, explore some of the incredible hiking trails in the region. My favorite is the Panorama Trail from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg; it's an easy, mostly downhill 4.7km walk that will leave you in awe.
Jungfraujoch
Where else can you sip coffee and enjoy fresh chocolate from the highest altitude Lindt store in the world all while overlooking the Aletsch glacier, the largest in the Alps? It can take a while to make your way here if you are staying in Interlaken or further afield, but the gorgeous train ride is part of the journey.
Wengen
This quiet town perched halfway up a mountain hosts ski tournaments in the winter and makes a great home base for Alps explorations in the summer. The (relatively) car-less village and traditional architecture add to the experience and help give a proper taste of Alpine life in Switzerland.
Lauterbrunnen
One of the primary transit hubs in the Jungfrau region, Lauterbrunnen is also the base of some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Alps (72 of them, to be exact). It's easy to see how J.R.R. Tolkien was inspired by this very valley when he was writing The Lord of the Rings, particularly when it comes to his description of Rivendell.
Gondolas
You may have been on gondolas before, but not ones like these. From smaller ski-style gondolas to massive 75-person cable cars, this is both the most efficient and most scenic method for traversing across the Jungfrau region. If you're going to be here for a while, consider purchasing a multiday "Jungfrau Travel Pass" to cut down on the cost of individual gondola trips. Don't miss the new gondola terminal in Grindelwald, either!
Grindelwald village
A trip to the Jungfrau area would not be complete without a visit to Grindelwald, one of the primary cultural and economic hubs in the region. It's difficult to think of a more beautiful place in the world so be warned: if you visit, you may not want to leave.
Grindelwald-First adventures
Get an adrenaline rush from one of the many activities in this scenic area. From Trottibikes (a type of standing bike) to mountain carts and from the jaw dropping First Cliff Walk to the speedy zipline First Glider, there's no shortage of adventures to get your heart pounding.
Mürren
If you are after a quintessential and romantic Apline town, look no further than Mürren. Car-free like Wengen, Mürren boasts a fantastic village festival, the "Dorffest", the first week of August that is packed with Swiss culture and sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Day Trips
Interlaken/Harder Kulm
If you're staying in the Jungfrau region you should be able to find most everything you need in the mountains, but if you want an urban break take a short train down to Interlaken. It's likely the town you stopped in on your way up to the Jungfrau region. From shopping to restaurants to lake activities, Interlaken is the cultural and economic hub of this region of Switzerland. While you're here, consider taking a funicular up to Harder Kulm for a fantastic view over Lake Thun and maybe even getting a bite to eat at the summit at Panorama restaurant.
Places to eat & drink in the Swiss Alps: Jungfrau Region
Breakfast
Airtime Café Bakery (Lauterbrunnen): If you don't already have breakfast booked through your hotel and you want a simple no-frills meal, you certainly cannot go wrong with Airtime. Try the funky Jenga toast with butter, honey, jam and nutella to fuel up for your adventures.
Cafe 3692 (Grindelwald): If you're staying in Grindelwald and would like a more classic Swiss breakfast, be sure to stop by Cafe 3692. The delicious food and incredible views may tempt you to come back for lunch or dinner!
Lunch
Hotel Eiger (Mürren): Many excellent eateries in this region are located in hotels. Hotel Eiger is no exception and has an excellent lunch spread (actually just called "snacks" on the menu); from the Swiss charcuterie board to the Eiger burger, everyone should be able to find something that suits their fancy here.
Bergrestaurant Allmend (Wengen): If you're hiking between Wengen and Kleine Scheidegg (or even if you're not), Bergrestaurant Allmend is a must-stop. Boasting what is one of the most beautiful patios of any restaurant in or out of Switzerland, stop by for a while and enjoy a Swiss beer along with some Swiss-German favorites like soup with sausage or a Rahmschnitzel.
Dinner
Glacier (Grindelwald): If you want to go all out for dinner, try this savory Michelin-starred slice of Alpine heaven. As if chef Paul Cabayé's mountain-inspired creations weren't enough, the restaurant's giant panoramic windows and patio overlooking the Alps make this experience even better.
Eiger Restaurant (Wengen): If you are looking for a more casual vibe, consider the delicious Eiger Restaurant in Wengen, within a stone's throw of the Wengen train station. Sit on the outdoor patio if it's available and take in the spectacular mountain scenery from a 180 degree view, while trying tasty Swiss Raclette or Bernese Oberland beef.
Fondue
Fondue Gondola at Hotel Belvedere (Grindelwald): A trip to Switzerland wouldn't be complete without fondue, and what would be more Swiss than enjoying fondue in a gondola? You can either enjoy your fondue experience inside the restaurant or outside in a former gondola with a breathtaking view of the Grindelwald valley.
Fondue Gondola at Hotel Alpine (Wengen): If you're staying in Wengen and want a unique fondue experience, look no further than Hotel Alpine Wengen. Their fondue experience in a decomisioned gondola overlooking the Lauterbrunnen valley is one experience you don't want to miss.
Need to know
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Matthew Troia
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Parker White’s guide, Best Hotels & Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Switzerland.