I am SO excited for you that you are starting to plan a trip to the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen and there are truly adventurous things to do everywhere you look. From epic hikes to paragliding over the Swiss Alps, the options are truly endless. Sooo, without further ado here are 25 adventurous things to do in the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland.
Side note:: If you would like a more structured itinerary to aid in your planning, be sure to check out the EXACT 7-day Jungfrau Region in Switzerland itinerary that we used during our recent vacay.
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Table of Contents
Where is the Jungfrau Region?
The Jungfrau Region is located in the Bernese Oberland, a mountainous region in the south-central region of Switzerland. It is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, including high peaks, glaciers, and picturesque villages.
The region is sort of a triangle that connects Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen. You’ll also find the quaint towns of Wengen, Murren, and Gimmelwald in addition to the sparkling blue lakes of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.
The Jungfrau Region is a popular destination for outdoor and adventurous activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering, and it is renowned for its breathtaking views of iconic mountains like the Eiger, Mönch, and its’ namesake, the Jungfrau. It’s truly an outdoor-lovers paradise.
Closest Major Airports (to Interlaken)
- Bern: <1 hour train ride
- Zurich: 2.5 hour train ride
When is the best time to visit?
Unless you are a skiier/snowboarder, the best time of year to visit the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland is undoubtedly during the summer months, typically spanning from June to September.
During this period, the region experiences mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the valleys and even cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.
The lush meadows come alive with vibrant wildflowers, and the hiking trails are in their prime, allowing visitors to explore the breathtaking Alpine landscapes. However, although temperatures are ideal, August is known to be the rainiest month of the year, so be aware of this when planning.
Additionally, the Jungfrau Region’s iconic attractions, including the Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, and Grindelwald, are fully accessible, offering unrivaled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and valleys, making it the perfect time for outdoor adventures and memorable sightseeing experiences.
Getting to the Jungfrau Region (Which Rail Pass Should You Choose?)
Although you could rent a car right at the airport, I highly suggest utilizing Switzerland’s amazing train system.
If planning on staying in the Jungfrau region for the duration of your trip, I recommend getting the Jungfrau Region Pass. This way, you have access to all of the region’s trains AND gondolas. The only train ticket you will (likely) have to purchase separately is from the airport to Interlaken.
If you are planning on traveling outside of the Jungfrau region more than once during your trip, then the Swiss Travel Pass is your best bet. This pass covers ALL trains in the country and give you 50% off gondolas and other mountain railways.
For a complete comparison of the rail passes, check out this post!
Best things to do in the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland for Adventure-Lovers
It’s timeeee! This list was so fun to write about. Even though we had A LOT of rain (see this Instagram reel for the unfortunate details) during our time in Switzerland, we still were able to see so much of the Jungfrau Region (+ other stops that weren’t on our original itinerary due to the weather).
I’ve included things we did, plus adventures that are still on the bucket list. (Anyone else have an ever-growing bucket list?)
1. Chase Waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is home to 72 waterfalls. 72?! It’s a waterfall-lovers dream (eh me). You can see many of the waterfalls during your train ride to the village, but it’s a real treat to get up close to them.
Two of the most popular waterfalls to explore are Staubbach Falls and Trummelbach Falls which can both be easily explored in an afternoon.
After getting off the train in Lauterbrunnen, take a quick 10 minute walk through town to Staubbach Falls. From here, you can take the steep .2 mile trail for a closer (behind-the-waterfall) look.
After checking out Staubbach Falls, walk to the nearest bus stop and take a ride to the Trummelbach Falls stop. From here, you’ll walk to the ticket booth and pay 14 CHF per person (totally worth it).
Trummelbach Falls are an impressive set of 10 waterfalls that cut through a mountain. I recommend taking the elevator up (to stop 6) and then walking the entire way down. This way, you will ensure you see all the viewpoints without the trek up 🙂
2. Hike the Panorama Trail
During our ONLY sunny morning, we headed to the picturesque Panorama Trail. To get to this trailhead, you have to take a gondola from Wengen or Grindelwald up to Mannlichen. After marveling at the coolest mountain playground, you can take off on the trail.
It’s a pretty easy downhill route that leads to the Kleine Scheidegg station (5.9-miles). That means, you won’t even have to hike back up if you choose not to!
It’s most definitely one of the best hikes in the region…maybe even all of Switzerland!
3. Visit Grindelwald First
A visit to Grindelwald First is a must on any Jungfrau Region itinerary! It’s an exhilarating experience that includes the First Cliff Walk, ziplines, alpine carts and bikes, and fantastic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
You can purchase your tickets for the gondola and activities online or at the station. We purchased the all-day gondola pass with 2 activities (First Flyer and Alpine Carts).
If planning on checking out the activities, be prepared for a line! I suggest getting to one of the ziplines first (as close to open as possible) and then heading to the mountain carts. Save the top stop of the gondola and the First Cliff Walk for last as it doesn’t require tickets or a line.
There’s also a great lake hike to Lake Bachalpsee at the top!
4. Take a boat tour of Lake Brienz
Relax on the serene (and super blue) waters of Lake Brienz while taking in the picturesque lakeside villages and the breathtaking mountain backdrop. The boat shuttle is actually included in both the Swiss Rail Pass and the Jungfrau Region pass!
There’s even dining rooms on the boats so you can have a relaxing dinner with a view! Check boat shuttle timetables here!
5. Ride the Funicular to Harder Kulm
Within walking distance from the Interlaken Ost train station, you’ll find the famous Harder Kulm funicular. After purchasing your tickets (included with the Jungfrau Region Pass, 50% off with the Swiss Travel Pass), you’ll hop on board 10-minute funicular ride as it climbs almost 2,500 feet.
During the ride and at the top, you’ll be met with unparalleled panoramic views of Interlaken, the Thun and Brienz lakes, and the surrounding mountains via a funicular ride.
If you prefer, you can also hike up vs. taking the funicular. We choose the funicular ride and then explored the trails at the top (which led to THE BEST views with NO crowds). Highly recommend.
6. Go Paragliding
Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate for plan ahead for this on our trip (and I maaaaay be a bit scared), but paragliding is a quintessential adventurous thing to do in the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland.
You’ll be able to soar through the skies like a bird and witness the Jungfrau region’s stunning beauty from above. There are many (maaaaany) different tour companies to choose from departing from several different locations.
Check prices and availability of Paragliding in Switzerland here!
7. Visit the Top of Europe
Explore the fascinating Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” where you can visit an ice palace, enjoy breathtaking vistas, and even experience snow year-round. The journey up is almost as amazing as the destination!
These train tickets are NOT included in either rail pass, but are discounted. Make sure to plan this trip on a clear day to avoid spending a lot of money for zero views. Plan to spend the entire day here!
8. Go Canyoning
Test your adventurous spirit by descending into the region’s pristine canyons, navigating through waterfalls, natural pools, and rock formations in an adrenaline-pumping canyoning excursion. These canyoning tours depart from Interlaken and last around 90-minutes.
9. Walk the streets of Wengen
Okay this may not be as “adventurous” as other things to do on this list, but it is dreamy! And walking can be deemed as an adventure in my book .
Anywaaaaays, immerse yourself in the quaint charm of Wengen, a car-free village with timber chalets, offering a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere. This is actually where we stayed every night (at the Hotel Bellevue) during our trip and I would 1,0000 percent recommend.
10. Tour the Thun Castle
Explore the historic Thun Castle was a great rainy day activity in the Jungfrau Region! It’s perched on a hill overlooking Lake Thun, and it delves into the rich medieval history of the region. It’s a fun place to spend an hour or two, plus, the views from the top are amazing!
AND admission is FREE with your rail pass!
11. Explore the St. Beatus Caves
Nestled on the shores of Lake Thun, you’ll find the massive St. Beatus Caves. After trekking up the steep path to the entrance you can buy your ticket and head into the cave for a self-guided tour.
Inside, you’ll follow the 1-mile (there and back) path past the cave waterfalls, stalagmites, and stalagmites. There are signs posted throughout to give you more information. Plan to spend around 1-2 hours exploring. Then, grab a bite to eat overlooking Lake Thun.
12. Rent a Hot Tub Boat
This wasn’t on our original itinerary, but we were running out of rainy day activities and we stumbled upon the rental stand on the shores of Lake Brienz. And, I am SO GLAD we did. How fun (and relaxing) is it to float along the beautiful Lake Brienz in your own hot tub boat?!
You can rent these boats from Pirate Bay Nautical Center and advanced reservations are highly recommended.
13. Indulge in Fondue
Again, not exactly adventurous, but quintessential to any Switzerland itinerary. Savor the traditional Swiss fondue, a delectable dish of melted cheese served with bread. You can find it in almost all of the cozy mountain restaurants and its sure to make for an authentic culinary experience.
It’s a great thing to do after a day full of adventures!
14. Play at the Mannlinchen Playground
Even if you aren’t traveling with kids, this playground is hard to resist. It’s nestled at the top of Mannlichen (where the Panorama Trail is located) and is home to a large cow slide, obstacles, in-ground trampolines, and even bowling.
We of course had to have a quick bowling competition.
15. Conquer the Thrill Walk in Murren
This was high on my Switzerland bucket list, but unfortunately it was never clear enough in Murren to make the trek up there.
If you have great weather, the Thrill Walk is a must. You can challenge your nerves with this cliffside adventure path that offers exhilarating views and adrenaline-pumping sensations.
Plus, it’s free!
More epic things to do in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland!
16. Row and Hike at Lake Oeschinensee
As you can see from the pictures above, the weather (once again) did not cooperate with us (yep, that’s us on the right). Lake Oeschinensee is known for its sparkling blue water and towering snow-capped mountains. However, even in the rain it was a magical experience.
You’ll start by taking the train to Kandersteg. After arriving, you will have about a 15 minute walk from the train station to the gondola station. It’s flat, paved, and right through town.
After arriving at the gondola station, purchase your tickets (30 CHF general, 15 CHF with Swiss Rail Pass). Once at the top, you’ll then have a 30 minute easy walk to the lake (there is a paid shuttle as well)
Once at the lake, you can choose between different hikes, or walk to the restaurant, or rent a row boat. We hiked to the waterfall. It was a short hike, but slightly sketchy as you can see in the picture!
And if you are lucky enough to have dry weather, there is an alpine slide at the mountain station.
17. Aare Gorge
To reach the Aare Gorge, you will need to take a train to Brienz and then connect on a train to Meiringen (10 minutes) and then from Meiringen to Aareschlucht West or Ost (West was closed when we visited).
After your train ride, you’ll have a short walk to the entry of the gorge to purchase your tickets (10 CHF). (There were no signs posted on the walk, but just follow the path up from the Ost station and you’ll eventually see the large entry building).
It’s a fun and easy walk through the gorge about 1 mile each way. Since the West train station was closed, we did have to walk there and back to get back to the Aareschlucht OST station.
18. Alpine Slide Grindelwald Pfingstegg
Experience the thrill of racing down a toboggan slide in Grindelwald Pfingstegg, a fun-filled activity for visitors of all ages.
Grindelwald Pfingstegg is home to a cable car, an alpine slide, a unique flyline, and a restaurant with an epic view.
You can purchase your tickets for the cable car, flyline, and alpine slide at the desk for just 32 CHF (for everything with the Swiss Travel Pass)
19. Whitewater Rafting
Although I will never go white water rafting again (after a incident in Colorado), more adventurous folks will love the thrill of this river adventure in the Jungfrau Region.
Get your heart racing with a whitewater rafting adventure on the turbulent rivers of the Jungfrau region, guided by experienced professionals. You’ll have some of the most amazing views during your 5-hour trip down the Simme River.
20. Canyon Swing
Take the plunge and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a canyon swing adventure, leaping into a scenic gorge with breathtaking views. You’ll leap from a platform 235 feet above the gorge.
21. Kayak Lake Brienz
Explore the pristine waters of Lake Brienz in a kayak, allowing you to get up close to the stunning lakeside scenery at your own pace! There are half-day tours in the summer and winter months (with a wet suit) that will take you past towering cliffs, historic castles, and hidden beaches.
22. Grab Dinner at Piz Gloria
Piz Gloria is a revolving mountaintop restaurant atop Schilthorn, famous for its panoramic views and its association with the James Bond film, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” I’m not sure you can find a better defintion of “dinner with a view”
This is great to combine with the Thrill Walk adventure!
23. Visit Mt. Pilatus
Take a trip to Lucerne and ascend Mt. Pilatus for sweeping views of the Swiss Alps and enjoy various activities, including hiking, observation decks, a playground, ropes course, and the famous “Dragon Ride” cableway.
If you are feeling extra adventurous, you can choose to forego the gondola ride and hike to the top. But be prepared for some MASSIVE elevation gain.
24. Take a Food Tour
Take a break from the thrills and delight in the culinary wonders of the region by embarking on a food tour. You can enjoy sampling Swiss delicacies and exploring the local food scene. Many of these tours are based in Zurich, so it’s a great thing to do at the beginning or end of your Jungfrau Region vacation as you will likely be flying out of Zurich.
25. Hike to Giessbach Falls
And last, but certainly not least, is the hidden gem hike of Giessbach Falls!
To reach this trail, head to the Brienz boat shuttle stop (right next to the Pirates Bay hot tubs) and hop on the boat to the Giessbach See stop (included in your Swiss Rail Pass– see boat schedule here).
From here, you have the option to take a funicular to the top of the falls, or hike. We choose to hike as there are many amazing stops and overlooks along the way. Although you can hike further up, we stopped at the point where you walk behind the falls.
Be prepared though, these are some powerful falls and you will likely get soaked!
Adventurous Things to do in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland Recap
There ya have it! 25 of the very best things to do in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland. From white water rafting to paragliding there’s surely an adventure for everyone.
What else would you add to this Switzerland Bucket List?!
Need help planning your Switzerland Vacation? Check out these posts!
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