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The most common surprise for visitors to Jungfraujoch is the cold. You can leave Interlaken in a T-shirt on a July morning and step out onto the glacier two hours later into sub-zero air and snow. At 3,454 metres, the Top of Europe has its own climate, and it has very little to do with the weather in the valley. This guide explains what the weather is like at Jungfraujoch through the year, how to read the forecast, and what to pack so you enjoy every minute at the top.
Why Jungfraujoch is so much colder than Interlaken
Air cools by roughly 6 to 7 °C for every 1,000 metres you climb. Interlaken sits at about 570 metres and Jungfraujoch at 3,454 metres, so the summit is typically about 18 to 20 °C colder than the valley, before you add wind chill. The Aletsch Glacier and the snowfields around the summit stay white all year, which reflects sunlight and keeps the air cold. Even on a bright summer day, the temperature at the top rarely climbs much above freezing.
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Jungfraujoch temperature by month
The table below shows typical daytime temperatures at the summit. These are guide values; a sunny, windless day can feel much warmer, and a stormy one much colder. Always check the live forecast and webcams on the day.
| Month | Typical daytime temperature at the top | What to expect |
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| December â February | -10 °C to -20 °C | Deep winter, crisp clear days between storms, strong wind chill |
| March â April | -8 °C to -15 °C | Long sunny days, lots of snow, strong UV |
| May â June | -5 °C to 0 °C | Thawing in the valley, still full winter at the top |
| July â August | -3 °C to +5 °C | Warmest months, more afternoon cloud and showers |
| September â October | -5 °C to 0 °C | Settled weather and clear views, first snow returns |
| November | -8 °C to -15 °C | Quieter, short days, changeable weather |
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Is there snow at Jungfraujoch in summer?
Yes. Jungfraujoch is in snow and ice all year round. In summer you walk on snow at the Plateau and at the Snow Fun Park, and the Aletsch Glacier below is permanently white. This is why Jungfraujoch is so popular with travellers from India in May and June: it is the easiest place in Switzerland to touch snow during the Indian summer holidays. Activities such as the Snow Fun Park run from about mid-May to mid-October, and the walk to the Mönchsjoch Hut from mid-March to mid-October, weather permitting.
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Best time to visit Jungfraujoch for clear views
Visibility matters more than temperature. A clear day means views over the Aletsch Glacier and as far as the Vosges and the Black Forest; a cloudy day means standing in fog. Late summer and early autumn, from late August to early October, often bring the most settled weather. Winter and early spring also offer many crystal-clear days between storms, with fewer visitors. In midsummer, clouds tend to build after midday, so go up on the earliest train you can. For a wider view of the seasons, read our guide to the best time to visit Switzerland.
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How to check the weather before you go
Look at the live webcams on jungfrau.ch on the morning of your trip, not just the valley forecast. If the summit is in cloud and the forecast shows clearing later, start later; if tomorrow looks better, swap your plans around. Many travellers keep Jungfraujoch flexible in their itinerary for exactly this reason, and a Swiss Travel Pass makes it easy to change days because your trains to Interlaken and into the Jungfrau Region are already covered.
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What to wear at Jungfraujoch
Dress in layers you can add and remove, because you move between heated trains, indoor halls and the open-air Plateau and Sphinx Terrace. In any season, bring sunglasses and sunscreen: the sun at 3,500 metres, reflected off snow, burns quickly even when it is cold.
In summer (June to September), wear a T-shirt and a warm fleece or sweater, with a windproof jacket on top. Add comfortable closed shoes with good grip, such as trainers or light hiking shoes, because the snow on the Plateau is slippery. A cap or beanie and light gloves make the outdoor terraces much more pleasant.
In winter (November to April), wear a thermal base layer, a warm mid layer and a proper winter jacket, plus a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. Waterproof winter boots are best. Inside the stations it is heated, so you can open your jacket while you explore the Ice Palace and the halls.
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Altitude: how to feel good at the top
Most healthy visitors feel fine at Jungfraujoch, but some notice mild shortness of breath, a headache or tiredness because the air is thinner. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol before and during the visit, and give yourself a few minutes to adjust when you arrive. If you have heart or breathing conditions, or you are pregnant, ask your doctor before you travel. Children usually cope well, but keep an eye on them and head down if anyone feels unwell.
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Frequently asked questions
How cold is Jungfraujoch in summer?
Usually between about -3 °C and +5 °C during the day in July and August, and colder with wind. There is snow underfoot all year.
How cold is Jungfraujoch in winter?
Typically -10 °C to -20 °C, and it can feel colder with wind chill. Clear winter days are spectacular, so dress properly and go.
Do I need special clothes for Jungfraujoch?
No specialist gear is needed. Warm layers, a windproof jacket, gloves, a hat, sunglasses and shoes with good grip are enough for most visitors.
What if it is cloudy at the top?
Check the webcams before you go. If the summit is in cloud, consider another day if your plans allow, because the views are the highlight.
When is the best time to visit Jungfraujoch?
Late August to early October often has the most stable weather, and winter brings many clear days. In summer, go early in the morning.
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Final thoughts
Jungfraujoch is cold, bright and snowy every day of the year, and that is what makes it unforgettable. Check the webcams, go early, dress in layers and bring sunglasses. Once you know when you will go, our guide on how to get to Jungfraujoch walks you through the route, and SWISStours can book your excursion and Swiss Travel Pass in one place.
