Contents
Overview
In this post, I’ll introduce the Eiger Express, a gondola you must experience when visiting the Jungfrau region in Switzerland.
For those unfamiliar, the Eiger Express is a long gondola offering breathtaking views and significantly reducing travel time.
Let’s explore why this gondola is essential for your Jungfrau adventure and how to ride it.
About the Eiger Express Gondola
This Gondola connects Grindelwald and the Eiger Glacier.
While the well-known mountain train to the Jungfrau peak requires multiple transfers and over an hour from Grindelwald to Eiger Glacier, the Eiger Express cuts this time to just 15 minutes.
Plus, the scenic ride adds to the fun, making it a must for anyone with a tight schedule or a love for stunning landscapes.
If you hold a Jungfrau Pass, you can enjoy multiple trips up the mountains for trekking or skiing, making the Eiger Express even more valuable.
Ticket Prices
A round-trip ticket for the Eiger Express costs 64 CHF (around 8-9 USD).
However, if you purchase the Jungfrau VIP Pass, you can ride for free, which is perfect for skiers and trekkers who need to ascend frequently.
Operating Hours
- Operating hours: 08:00 – 17:20
- Last ascent: 16:45
- Last descent: 17:20
The gondola stops running in the evening as the staff leave, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing the last ride.
How to Ride?
You can board the Eiger Express at the Grindelwald Terminal station, which is a dedicated gondola train station, just one stop before the Grindelwald station when coming from Interlaken.
Arriving at Grindelwald Terminal
Upon arrival at Grindelwald Terminal, follow the signs to the gondola.
The modern, clean station features moving walkways and various amenities, making it easy to navigate.
Boarding the Eiger Express
Inside the terminal, follow the signs to the Eiger Express boarding area.
Be careful not to mistakenly follow signs for other gondolas, like the one to Männlichen.
Once you find the right boarding area, scan your Jungfrau Pass or ticket to enter.
The Eiger Express Experience
The newly constructed gondola is spacious and offers panoramic views through its glass windows. The ride takes about 15 minutes, offering stunning views of green meadows and snowy peaks, depending on the season.
Arriving at Eiger Glacier
After the 15-minute ride, the gondola arrives at the Eiger Glacier station.
From here, you can board a train to continue your ascent to Jungfrau. Note that trains run every 30 minutes, so plan your timing to avoid long waits.
If you have extra time, step outside to enjoy the spectacular snowy landscape.
A Must-Ride Gondola
While taking the mountain train from Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch is charming, the gondola offers a quicker and equally scenic alternative.
Consider combining both experiences: take the gondola up and the train down, or vice versa.
The breathtaking views during the 15-minute ride on the Eiger Express are unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, be sure to include this gondola ride in your itinerary!