Welcome to part two of a three-post series on how to spend 48-Hours in Switzerland. I will show you how it’s possible to spend just a few days in this stunning country without feeling like you’re missing out. My husband Zac and I visited here several years ago, where we managed to cram in three places into just two days. This included exploring the streets of Geneva, the stunning villages in the Swiss Alps, and ventured up the tallest mountain in Europe. Now I’m going to share with you my short itinerary that would be perfect for any traveler who:

• Want to experience Switzerland but only has a small budget.
• Your boss is a big, bad meany, therefore you can only have a few days off work.
• You’re not into long trips and prefer just a few days away at a time.
• Or you just want to get away for the weekend and do something awesome.   

In this post, I will talk about my stay in a Swiss village, including what happened when we got to our accommodation, which really threw a spanner in the works. And I’ll share with you my adventures to Jungfraujoch – the Top of Europe – which is a must-see when visiting Switzerland. So, if you haven’t read part one yet, you can read it here first.

As always, before heading abroad, I would encourage you to do your research before traveling to another country so that you can apply for the correct visas and or fulfill that county’s entry requirements. Therefore, I encourage you to check your country’s travel restrictions and government recommendations before you travel.

If you’d like to learn more about Switzerland’s visa requirements, visit iVisa’s website.

Lastly, If you like what you’ve read today, I would love you to subscribe to my mailing list at the bottom of this post, or you can use the Subscribe box over to the right. Happy traveling!

So, without further ado, here’s part two for you to enjoy. We’ll re-join the story just after our coach departed Geneva on our way to Wildersvil in the Swiss countryside. 

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that when you click on a product I recommend through my links, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. For more information, click here to read my Privacy Policy.

Beautiful Scenery

When I awoke, we were passing through an idyllic little town built right on the riverside, with farms dotted throughout, and each with their own quaint little ranch, surrounded by orchards ripe for the picking. My camera and I were in blogger heaven. It was then that our coach driver made an announcement, pre-warning everyone to look to the left of the coach and have their cameras ready because just around the next bend, we would be treated to some amazing views. To emphasize his point, he said, ‘be prepared to oooh and ahhh!’ Oh boy, was he right! As soon as our coach turned the corner, I felt it slow down to a snail’s pace as one of the most beautiful scenes I have ever seen appeared before of us. Like something you would find on a postcard! The surrounding river had become a shimmering still blue lake with lush mountains in the background. On the water’s edge sat the cutest little white church, with a spire, black roof, and a large clock. The church was surrounded by beautiful wooden Swiss-style houses, which complemented the surrounding rolling hills perfectly. Cue the predicted chorus of ‘ooohs’ and, ‘ahhhs!’

Wildersvil

As we drove further into the countryside, the scenery changed. The rolling hills became snow-capped mountains, and the handful of foliage transitioned into a lush green forest. I just knew this meant we were getting closer to our destination. Around two hours later, we finally entered Wildersvil. I stared around eagerly from the coach at the winter wonderland outside was wonderfully complemented by the numerous chocolate box-style homes. The only detail keeping it from being straight out of a Christmas special was the lack of snow on the roofs. Still, my eyes were darting here, there, and everywhere, trying to take it all in. Then, up in the hills, I spotted a beautiful-looking yellow hotel. Secretly, I thought that it would be totally awesome if that were our lodgings for the next two nights, but it looked far too expensive. After all, we were on a budget tour, staying in 2–3-star accommodation, so I assumed this was definitely out of our price range.

We’re staying where???

Then, as the coach made our way through the village, our tour guide told us the good news – we were, in fact, staying in the pretty yellow hotel! Yessss! A beautiful hotel in a romantic, dream-like destination? This part of our honeymoon was going to be unreal!

But the good news was short-lived! Remember the spanner in the works? Apparently, there were no bathrooms in the rooms, only a shared bathroom for the WHOLE FLOOR. My jaw hit the floor! This was our honeymoon. I would have never booked anywhere that meant sharing a bathroom! Plus, I was well past my backpacking, shared bathroom days! I figured this had to be a mistake, as this lovely resort didn’t look like cheap accommodation. We stayed at Hotel Schönbühl, and initially, my concerns were somewhat put at ease when we walked into reception and saw the lovey traditional décor. Everything had a real homely feel to it. 

But any remaining illusions were shattered the moment we took the stairs up to where we were staying. The difference was so night and day I started thinking we would be lucky if our room even had four walls and a bed. OK, so maybe I’m being a little dramatic, but the place was an absolute dump! It was the worst place I’d ever stayed in! Our room had makeshift plywood walls and horrible, uncomfortable single beds. Great! They were hideous! Luckily, unlike most honeymoon couples, we didn’t plan on spending our next two days away locked in a room together because tomorrow, I was off on the adventure of a lifetime.

DAY TWO

First Time Anxiety

The next day I rose at sunrise as I was catching an early train with some of our tour group to Jungfraujoch. It was particularly cold, just as expected of a mid-autumn morning in Switzerland, and as we walked to Wilderswil Train Station from our ‘hotel,’ I hugged my arms closer to my chest. I was feeling quite anxious as this would be my first solo activity I’d ever done on my own before. My husband Zac has bad asthma, which is exacerbated by cold weather. He also struggles to breathe at high altitudes, so it was a double whammy of not going to happen! However, he knew how desperately I wanted to see Jungfrau, to traverse the continent’s highest mountain and stand at the top of Europe, so he encouraged me to go without him. 

So, there I was, travelling alone for the first time ever, and the anxiety was starting to kick in. What if everyone stares at me? Would everyone point and laugh at the girl who’s alone up the mountain on her own? I was glad to quickly learn this couldn’t be further from the truth! As it turned out, several people from our tour group were solo travellers too. Although they’d already formed a seemingly impenetrable bond, when they saw me alone, they were quick to accept me into their circle. We all sat together in the carriage on the way up, talked, laughed, and admired the world-class scenery on display. Think rolling hills, autumn colours, and alpine villages consisting of the most stunningly crafted homes that looked like they had been pulled straight from a storybook – I kid you not!

A Winter Wonderland

About halfway there, we had to disembark and wait to board the special train that would take us the rest of the way up the mountain. I remember standing on the platform, feeling how much the temperature had plummeted since we’d left Wildersvil Station. By this point, everything was covered in a thin, powdery layer of snow, so we knew we were getting closer. While looking around, I suddenly spotted our train working its way down the mountain towards us. When it pulled in, I couldn’t believe how cute it was. As small and red as the little engine that could. When I boarded the train, my excitement only increased as I realised this was the final stretch of travelling before reaching the summit. After departing, I spotted an adorable little village made up of just a handful of lightly powdered houses. I suddenly felt like I was inside a winter wonderland! The surrounding snow-capped mountains travelled as far as the eye could see, broken up only by patches of forest and a small glistening lake. The whole scene was so idyllic. All I did the entire way up was snap photos. 

Eigerwand

Around 20-30 minutes from the peak, we stopped in a place called Eigerwand. The station had an indoor viewing platform with large windows that allowed you even more opportunity to get some stunning views on the way up. At this point, we were 2,865 meters or 9,460 feet above sea level. Wowzers! In typical Swiss fashion, they are a stickler for being on time, so when the train stopped for a quick photo op, the guard shouts that we all must be back within three minutes! And I can confirm we chugged away exactly three minutes later. LOL!

Upon leaving Eigerwand Train Station, it wasn’t long before the train came to a halt again! Woo-hoo! We have arrived! Or so I thought. Actually, this was just another three-minute photo op. We’d stopped at Eismeer, where we were now 3,160 meters or 10,368 feet above sea level! Luckily heights don’t bother me too much! The views from here, though, were stunning! Crystal clear skies meant we could see right down to the valley below. It was epic! Three minutes later and we were on our way again.

The Top of Europe!

Finally, we arrived at our last stop of the day, Jungfraunoch! I made it to the top of Europe! Oh, and in case you’re wondering, I was now a staggering  3,454 meters (11,333 feet) above sea level! No wonder poor Zac had to back out! 

Upon departing the train, our tour group scattered, and everyone headed off in different directions. Suddenly, a little of my anxiousness resurfaced, but it began to fade as I looked around and remembered where I was. 

Being quite excited to start looking around, I checked out the Aletsch Glacier, as this was easily accessible from the station. There’s a little platform that lets you head outside to get a closer look. As I opened the door, I was faced with a gust of icy cold air. Believe me, I didn’t stay outside for long.

Click here if you’d like to book your trip to Jungfraujoch

The cold was quick to remind me how hungry I was, so I headed down to the Berghaus, which is the main centre that houses the souvenir shop and restaurant. Oh my god, the noodles here were absolutely amazing! Well, as amazing as possible, considering they were the just-add-hot-water kind! But they were seriously yummy! Check them out if they still sell them, their called Shin Cup Noodle Soup. In fact, I enjoyed them so much that I went back and purchased a second helping before continuing on my way.

Jungfrau’s History

The next stop was the Alpine Sensation, a 250m long corridor connecting the Eispalast to the Sphinx Observation Deck. You can read all about the history of the pioneers that carved out the tunnels and made the railway up to the top of Europe possible. It must have been a hellish job, considering the tools they had and the environment they were working in. To pay homage to these brave men, scratches have been laid into the walls to give the appearance the tunnel was dug out with a simple pickaxe. The walls are also decorated with large stars leading towards an open space that contained the largest snow globe I’d ever seen! It was absolutely stunning. I wish there would have been a way to shake it so that I could have seen the snowfall inside. The models contained within were so intricate. They included the mountain villages of Switzerland, a busy city, train tracks and a cable cart. It was truly fantastic. 

The Ice Palace

Once past the snow globe, I made my way into the next tunnel and took a few steps down to arrive at the Ice Palace. The walkway leading up to the entrance is not only long but made of solid ice. There is a handrail to aid you, but still, without appropriate snowshoes, you’re really going to struggle to stay on your feet here! The thinness of the walkway made me feel a little claustrophobic, and the temperatures here were well below freezing which certainly wasn’t helping matters. However, I am glad I stuck it out as it led me to see some of the most remarkable sculptures I have ever seen, the first of which was the highly appropriate family of polar bears. There’s also sculptures of eagles, seals and ice-sledding dogs, which I thought were just too cute. But my favourite work by far was the penguins. They were so well done. There was a whole colony stood on rocks made of ice, and one, in particular, looked like the grumpy old penguin in Happy Feet. You know the one I mean, Noah the Elder (thanks IMDB!), who makes life miserable for Mumble. 

While I was looking at the penguins and simultaneously absorbing the culture and remembering hilarious animated animals from my childhood, a family wandered past that had decided to venture out for the day in inappropriate footwear. Without trying to sound like a big bully, I couldn’t help but chuckle to myself as they were skidding and sliding in every direction. I just kept picturing Bambi the first time he ventured out onto the ice. 

I decided that since I had come this far, I had to brave the cold weather again and head outdoors. After all, I didn’t come all the way here to be stuck inside all day. That’s more of a trip style suited to my husband. Ha-ha. As I took my first step through the door…I immediately realised that this is something you’ll have to wait until part three to read!

Click here if you’d like to book your trip to Jungfraujoch

Know Before You Go:

Is 48-hours in Switzerland long enough?

Yes, it is long enough. You’ll still get a taste of Swiss life, and see some epic scenery and explore some great towns and villages. However, you could travel around this country for a month and still leave having tons of things that you still want to do. So, with that in mind, just go, you’ll have a fantastic time. Who cares if you only have 48 hours?

How can I avoid booking a hotel that’s not up to scratch?

Before deciding where you’re going to stay, check out the reviews on Tripadvisor first, and look at the photos of other travelers who have stayed here previously. Hotels will only show you very polished-looking images, but travelers will share all of their warts-and-all photos, such as cracked and peeling paint coming off the walls, dirty bathrooms, etc. Because I went with a tour company, I ignorantly assumed that all hotels would have bathrooms in our rooms, and this hotel didn’t. I will never make that mistake again.

How much does it cost to get from Interlaken Ost Train Station to Jungfraujoch Train Station?

It ranges from 74.00 – 214.00 Swiss Francs (approx. $80.00 – $229.00 USD).

How long is the journey time Interlaken to Jungfraujoch Train Station?

The train takes approximately two hours to the top of the mountain. Depending on where you’re staying, you first need to travel to Interlaken Ost Train Station. Luckily, I stayed in Wildersville, which meant it wasn’t far for us to travel.

When is the best time to visit Jungfraujoch?

Be sure to visit on a clear day when you visit; otherwise, you won’t be able to see anything due to fog or cloud cover, so bear this in mind when planning your trip.

Can I make changes to my tickets once I’ve booked them?

No, tickets to Jungfraujoch are non-refundable, so be absolutely sure of the day you want to travel here before purchasing your tickets.

What should I wear to Jungfrau?

Winter clothes. Layers! Layers! Layers, my friends. It’s cold up there! And by cold, I mean absolutely freezing. Check the weather before you go so that you can dress appropriately. Though if you’re from Alaska or certain parts of Siberia, I’m sure you’ll know exactly what to wear!

How long do you need at Jungfrau?

I was here for approximately 3-3.5 hours, and I felt as though I didn’t have long enough. While I was up here, I still saw quite a lot but would have liked another couple of hours to take in the great things to do in the Snow Fun Park.

Like what you’ve read today? I’d love you to support my blog by subscribing below. It’s free to join, and I’ll notify you of my new blog posts, as well as special offers and inspiration for your next trip. Join today! No spam, I promise 😊

First Name

Email address:

Leave this field empty if you're human:

Thanks for reading my post on how to spend 48 hours in Switzerland. Even though we only had a short time in this beautiful country, I could still get a taste of what was on offer, and it has inspired me to go back someday. Imagine booking yourself on a two-week tour, then after a couple of days, realising that you hated it but were now stuck with the tour until the end? This way, Zac and I could dip our toes into Swiss life and see if we liked it. And the answer was a resounding yes.

Of course, it did come with its ups and downs, like how cold it was in Wildersvile and Jungfrau. Also, our hideous hotel looked so lovely on the outside but turned out to be a complete dump! Never again will I leave this to chance. However, I did learn a valuable lesson here. Check the hotels first on Trip Advisor before leaving on our trip.

So, have I inspired you to visit Jungfraujoch and Switzerland? Will you be planning a trip here soon? Buy your tickets on Get Your Guide now. Hurray, they often sell out, so get in quick!

Have you been to Switzerland before? Where did you visit? Where would you recommend I go on my next visit? Let me know in the comments section below.

Check out more of my travel posts, by scrolling to the bottom of this page.