Sphinx Observatory - Top of Europe Viewing Platform in Jungfraujoch

The Sphinx Observatory is located at Jungfraujoch in Switzerland, between the Jungfrau and Monch peaks in the Bernese Alps. It sits at an elevation of 3,571 meters above sea level on a rocky peak known as the Sphinx.

This high-altitude research station is located above the Jungfraujoch railway station and is accessible via a short elevator ride from the station. This elevation offers a 360-degree view of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and the surrounding landscape.

• Opening Hours: The Sphinx Observatory in Jungfraujoch is open year-round. However, the extended hours during the summer months offer the best views and a chance to enjoy without feeling rushed.
• Entry Fee: There are no separate tickets to access the Sphinx Observatory viewing platform. The facility’s observation deck is included with your Jungfrau Railway ticket. 
• Best Time to Visit: May to October is the peak season that brings the clearest weather and best visibility. December to March are the winter months, perfect for snow activities and budget travellers. 
• Facilities: The Jungfraujoch complex is well-equipped with self-service cafeterias and clean restrooms.

The Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory is one of many incredible experiences in Switzerland. The station is a part of the Jungfraujoch complex, which includes the highest railway station in Europe, an ice palace, observation terraces, restaurants and exhibition spaces.

The research station stands as the highest astronomical observatory and one of the most spectacular destinations on the continent. This vantage point is perched at 3,571 meters above sea level in the heart of the Swiss Alps and offers a 360-degree view of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding mountains.

The facility is perched at 3,571 meters above sea level in the Swiss Alps and is one of the highest observatories in the world. Its observation deck is accessible via an elevator through the highest railway station in Europe.

This astronomical research station has been conducting atmospheric research for many decades. Unlike typical tourist attractions, this remarkable research station offers visitors an unforgettable mixture of science and alpine majesty.

The Sphinx Observatory is accessible throughout the year, regardless of any weather conditions.

Early Morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM) is the least crowded for fewer crowds and offers stunning sunrise views. The Good Morning Train Tickets offer significant discounts

Note: Avoid midday during peak season to avoid maximum crowds.

The only way to reach Jungfraujoch is via the historic Jungfrau Railway. There are two main routes to reach the Jungfraujoch and access the Sphinx Observatory viewing deck.

Note: Mandatory Train Reservations Between May 1 and October 31, 2026, seat reservations are compulsory for the Eigergletscher–Jungfraujoch leg. The fee is CHF 10 (approx. ₹980).

Take the Eiger Express tri-cable gondola from Grindelwald Terminal to Eiger Glacier station. From there, take the Jungfrau Railway cogwheel train that takes you to Jungfraujoch station. This is the quickest route, taking approximately 50 minutes from Grindelwald.

Note: The Eiger Express is scheduled for a brief revision suspension from November 9 to November 20, 2026. During this time, travelers must use the traditional cogwheel train via Kleine Scheidegg.

Take the Wengernalp Railway from Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg. From here, take the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch via the Eiger Glacier. This route takes approximately 90 minutes and offers spectacular mountain scenery throughout.

After reaching the Jungfraujoch station, the Europe’s highest railway station via your chosen route, take the 25 seconds elevator ride from the station complex to the viewpoint deck of the sphinx observatory and enjoy the mesmerizing view!

At 3,571 meters, some visitors experience altitude-related symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath and nausea. So, it is advisable to stay hydrated.

Temperatures at Jungfraujoch are typically below freezing year-round. So essential items include 

• Warm winter jacket
• Thermal underwear, fleece, waterproof outer layer
• Warm gloves, hat or beanie
• Sunglasses and sunscreen

• Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass if visiting multiple Swiss destinations
• Book Good Morning or Good Afternoon tickets for 25% discount
• Bring your own snacks and water
• Visit during off-season months (May, June, September, October)
• Combine with other Jungfrau Region attractions for package deals

The Ice Palace is a magical world carved directly into the glacier ice. This palace features intricate ice sculptures, including bears, penguins, and eagles.

This exhibition tunnel offers you a multimedia experience and takes you through the history of the Jungfrau Railway. This experience brings to life the incredible engineering feat of building Europe's highest railway station.

The store lets you discover the secrets of Swiss chocolate making and indulge in complimentary samples. The store combines the Swiss chocolate tradition with the Alpine setting.

Ready to experience the magic of Sphinx Observatory with our Switzerland Tour Package?  The observatory tower offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime alpine experience. From the moment you board the iconic Jungfrau Railway, visitors can gaze across an endless sea of peaks and ice, which changes in every moment. The combination of natural beauty, engineering marvel and unique attractions makes this place more than just a scenic viewpoint. While the journey requires significant investment in both time and money, the memories created at the "Top of Europe" are truly priceless.

To help you plan the perfect trip, dive deeper into our specific guides:

Jungfraujoch Travel Guide | Best Places to Visit in Jungfraujoch | Top Things to Do at Jungfraujoch | Best Time to Visit Jungfraujoch