Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory (Sphinx-Observatorium)

Although the observatory itself is not accessible to the public, the building’s views—a short elevator ride from the Jungfraujoch railway station—prove popular. There, explore the summit’s other attractions, including a gallery of ice sculptures; Snow Fun Park, which offers sledding, skiing, and other cold-weather activities; and a snowy stroll to Mönchsjochhütte or a warming fondue.

Book tickets to visit Jungfraujoch on a day trip or join one of the guided tours of the area, which depart from major cities like Bern, Zurich, and Interlaken. Alternatively, visit the observatory on a multi-day package that takes you to various nearby sites.

• The Sphinx Observatory viewing platform is accessible for wheelchair users.

• Dress warmly, even during the summer months—the peak has sub-zero temperatures all year round.

• The journey to Jungfraujoch takes around 2.5-hours, so plan a full day for your visit.

• Jungfraujoch is an extremely popular attraction, so make sure to book your train and attraction tickets ahead of time.

You can reach Sphinx Hall on an elevator from Jungfraujoch station; the 354-foot (108-meter) ascent to the observation deck takes just 25 seconds. Jungfraujoch can only be reached by cogwheel train; begin at Interlaken Ost, change at either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, and then catch the Jungfrau Railway from Kleine Scheidegg.

The observation deck is open all year round and is accessible every day while the Jungfrau Railway is operating (from morning until early evening). Jungfraujoch is always teeming with tourists, so the earlier you go the better; the largest crowds assemble during the late morning and early afternoon. Clear, bright days afford the best views from the deck.

Once you’ve enjoyed the sights and wintery activities at Jungfraujoch, head to another, often-overlooked mountain wonderland: the Aletsch Glacier. Located not far from Jungfraujoch, this UNESCO-listed landmark is the largest glacier in the Alps and boasts a beautiful, otherworldly landscape. Explore the area on a glacier walk, trek the Aletsch Glacier Trail, or hop on a cable car and enjoy stunning views.

You can’t climb to the Top of Europe; the only way to get to the Sphinx Observatory is by train. Kleine Scheidegg is the farthest you can hike up the mountain before requiring a train, though many visitors purchase train tickets to board from either Interlaken or Grindelwald.

The Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observation Deck offers 360-degree views of the Bernese Alps. However, visibility is low on stormy or cloudy days, and there’s no guarantee of a view. On calm, sunny days, you can see parts of France, Germany, and Italy.

The Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory is open year-round, including Christmas Day, during train operating hours; however, accessing the Top of Europe may be unavailable during severe weather. Train tickets to the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory usually cost around $100, depending on any additional features you want, such as reserving a seat.

The lure of the Sphinx Observatory is the outdoor panoramic viewing deck, which shows off the stunning Bernese Alps. The observatory is just one of the many attractions at the Top of Europe, which is included in your admission, including entry to the Ice Palace.

Yes, the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory is fully accessible for visitors in wheelchairs. Wheelchair users can visit the Sphinx Observatory and find accommodations for accessing the Ice Palace and the restaurant. The trains required to reach the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory are also wheelchair accessible.

Yes, it is recommended that all visitors purchase train tickets to reach the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory in advance. Taking the train to the Top of Europe is one of the most popular attractions in Switzerland. Buying in advance lets you immediately hop on the train without queuing for tickets.