9 of the Top Things To Do in the Jungfrau Region

All aboard the cog railway for one of the most scenic views in all of Europe. A visit to Jungfrau is a highlight of this region of the Swiss Alps, as you can check out the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory (Sphinx-Observatorium), where you can see the Aletsch Glacier from the observation decks. Stroll through the tunnels in the Ice Palace and, if you're there in the winter, visit the Snow Fun Park. Make it a scenic day trip by coach from Interlaken; alternatively, book a tour via Zurich or from Lucerne.

Insider tip: There's always snow at Jungfraujoch, so dress accordingly.

For a stunning view of a different sort, head to Interlaken, known as the Adventure Capital of Switzerland. With Lake Thun (Thunersee) and Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) to choose from, there are plenty of things to do on the water. Head out on a kayak tour or grab a day pass that gives you access to sightseeing boats on both lakes. From there you can explore small towns along the lake, such as Itselwald and Spiez.

Fondue was created in Switzerland as a way to use up stale bread and old cheese, with a splash of wine (of course). The fondue of today is much the same, though you'll likely have veggies and other options for dipping. When you're looking for Jungfrau Region activities, you'll find fondue on many menus, most offering the cheese version or chocolate for dessert. One fun option is a tour that includes fondue after an afternoon of sledding or other winter sports.

Related: The Fon-Do’s and Don’ts of Eating Fondue in Switzerland

You'll find a wide variety of Jungfrau Region hiking trails, from flat lakeside walks to steep ascents you'll best tackle with a guide. Interlaken has many great options, including the Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, a moderate 3.7-mile (6-kilometer) loop that offers some stunning views. You can access the trail via a vintage mountain train from the town of Wilderswil, adding to the adventure. You might even catch an alphorn performance or another Jungfrau Region cultural experience at the train station.

The Jungfrau Region's adventure sports are not for the faint of heart. While you can ski down snow-capped mountains in the winter, the summer is a great time to try paragliding, as you can't get better views of this stunning area than from the sky. Tandem skydiving is available in Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen, most starting with a cable car ride to the launch point. Take in the alpine landscape as your professional guide points out mountain peaks in the distance.

Glaciers carved canyons throughout the Jungfrau Region millions of years ago. Visiting Grindelwald Canyon is one of the best things to do in Jungfrau, and a stop here includes a visit to the Crystal Museum. Rock walls rise above you on the 0.6-mile (1-kilometer) walk through the canyon with the river rushing by. Kids love climbing around in the rope spider web, and adventure-seekers can try out the thrilling Canyon Swing.

Insider tip: Visit on a hot day, as the canyon is always quite cool.

If you're in search of even more adventure in this part of the Jungfrau Region, make your way by train and cable car to Grindelwald First. This is one of the top Jungfrau Region scenic views: Head out on the viewing platforms or cliff walk, or go soaring through the air like an eagle on the First Glider. Families will enjoy the alpine playground and mountain carts. Or, take an easy hike on the Marmot Trail to learn about these interesting mountain creatures.

Hop aboard the cable car in Lauterbrunnen to make your way to this too-cute mountain town. The village gets busy with skiers and people enjoying other Jungfrau Region winter sports; during the rest of the year, it's a haven for hikers. Take a walking tour to visit the farm animals and buy some bread and cheese for a snack along the way.

Insider tip: A train from Wengen is one of the ways to get to Jungfraujoch, so it's a good spot to stay if that's on your itinerary.

Whether you hike or take the cable car to Schilthorn, you'll be rewarded with views of many of Europe's tallest mountain peaks—Jungfrau, the Eiger, and even Mont Blanc in the distance. On the way up the mountain, check out the Thrill Walk, located near the Birg station. Crawl through the mesh tunnel and then test your bravery by standing on the glass-bottomed platform.

Did you know?: You may recognize Schilthorn's revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, from the classic James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.