Useful tips

For a week of mountains, compare three: the Swiss Travel Pass (free trains to Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen and Wengen, with about 25% off above); the Jungfrau Travel Pass (unlimited regional trains and lifts for 3–8 days, from CHF 210 or CHF 165 with a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card in 2026); and the Berner Oberland Pass (3–10 days, from CHF 240 in 2026). Check 2027 prices before buying.

With a Jungfrau Travel Pass you only pay a supplement for the last section: CHF 63 return outside the summer season in 2026. A guaranteed seat costs CHF 10 and is worth it on clear days.

Check the live webcams before going high. A cloudy day at the Jungfraujoch shows you nothing but white.

At 3,454 m the air is thin. Walk slowly, drink water and go down if anyone has a headache or feels dizzy.

Children under 6 travel free. The Swiss Family Card lets children under 16 travel free with a parent who holds a pass on most trains and many lifts; ask about each mountain fare.

Thermal base layer, fleece and a waterproof jacket. Add gloves, hat, sunglasses and waterproof boots with good grip.

UV is strong on snow and at altitude. Sunscreen and sunglasses even when it feels cold.

January school holidays in the Gulf mean busy classes. Reserve children’s lessons and rental a few weeks ahead.

Swiss trains leave exactly on time; be on the platform a few minutes early, especially with children and skis.

Cards and phone payments work almost everywhere. Prices are high; supermarket picnics save a lot.

Many shops close on Sundays; stations and tourist shops in Interlaken usually stay open.

Swiss sockets are type J. Two-pin European plugs fit; Gulf three-pin plugs need an adaptor.