Why this trip belongs at the top of your Wengen itinerary (part of the top 10 things to do in wengen)

When you stay at Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn in Wengen, you’re within striking distance of one of Europe’s most extraordinary day‑trips: the Jungfraujoch. Often referred to as the Top of Europe, this high‑alpine saddle lies between the Jungfrau and Mönch peaks and houses the highest railway station in Europe at an elevation of 3 454 m.  From the plateau you can explore an icy world of glaciers, tunnels and research stations while surrounded by views of the Aletsch Glacier, the Bernese Alps and, on clear days, the Vosges in France.  This combination of natural wonder and nineteenth‑century engineering makes the Jungfraujoch excursion the signature experience of a Wengen holiday.

Highlights at the top - Sphinx Observation Deck

After arriving at Jungfraujoch station, follow signs to the Sphinx Observatory. An ultra‑fast lift whisks you 108 m up in just 25 seconds to a terrace perched at 3 571 m.  This international research station offers one of the world’s highest public viewing platforms.  From here you’ll gaze over the vast Aletsch Glacier, a 22 km river of ice, and the summits of the Bernese Alps.

Ice Palace

Carved by mountain guides in the 1930s, the Ice Palace is a labyrinth of tunnels and halls inside the glacier. Artists continually sculpt animals and characters in the crystalline ice, making each visit unique.  Walking through the smooth tunnels feels otherworldly, and the temperature stays below freezing even in midsummer.

Alpine Sensation and Glacier Plateau

Connecting the Sphinx and Ice Palace is the Alpine Sensation, a multimedia corridor honouring the workers who built the railway. Panels and exhibits trace the 16‑year construction project and celebrate the pioneering spirit that opened the high Alps to tourists.  Step outside onto the Glacier Plateau and feel snow crunch under your boots. In good conditions you can stroll along marked paths, build a snowman or watch climbers heading toward the Mönchsjochhütte mountain hut.  A Snow Fun park (mid‑June to mid‑October) offers tubing and sledding on groomed snow slopes.

Route and travel time

To reach Jungfraujoch you must travel by rail.  The standard route from Wengen goes via Kleine Scheidegg:

1. Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg – Board the Wengernalpbahn cog‑wheel railway. The climb takes around 22 minutes and affords views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley.  Sit on the right‑hand side for the best scenery.
2. Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch – At Kleine Scheidegg you change onto the Jungfraubahn.  The train climbs steeply through tunnels, with a brief stop at Eigergletscher station.  The journey from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch takes about 44 minutes.

Including the transfer, the total travel time from Wengen is roughly 1 hour 25 minutes. An alternative via Lauterbrunnen, Zweilütschinen, Grindelwald Terminal and the Eiger Express gondola is available but involves more transfers and takes almost two hours.

Practical tips

• Reserve seats: During high season (1 May – 31 August) the Jungfraubahn requires seat reservations.  Reserve your seat when purchasing your ticket.
• Go early: Crowds build up after 10 a.m.  The first train from Wengen (07.25) gives quieter trains and fewer queues at the top.
• Check the weather: Clear skies are essential for the panorama.  Use the live webcams on jungfrau.ch on the morning of your visit.
• Dress in layers and protect yourself from the sun: Temperatures at 3 454 m can be close to 0 °C even in summer.  Bring a jacket, hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Watch for altitude effects: You may feel breathless at this elevation.  Walk slowly, drink water and avoid strenuous exercise.

Getting there from Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn

Staying at Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn makes this excursion simple. The hotel is only a few minutes’ walk from Wengen train station, so you can board the first train without rushing or worrying about parking. The short walk and the roughly 1 hour 25 minute journey to Jungfraujoch mean you can explore Europe’s highest railway station and still return to Wengen for an afternoon hike or spa session.  The reception team at Hotel Victoria Lauberhorn can assist with checking weather conditions, reserving seats and purchasing tickets. After your alpine adventure, return to the hotel’s pool and wellness area to warm up and recover, making the Jungfraujoch experience a seamless part of your Wengen holiday.

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