Switzerland Mountains: 2025 Cost Guide for Visiting the Peaks
- Stefan
- Jul 21
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 22
Visiting the Switzerland mountains is a highlight of any trip. Whether you take a cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, ride the funicular to Schatzalp in Davos, or stand at 3,800 meters on the Klein Matterhorn, the experience is unforgettable. But what does it cost? Switzerland is known for being expensive, and mountain trips are no exception.
A recent price comparison by HolidayCheck shows just how much a mountain day trip will cost in 2025, including return tickets and lunch on the mountain. This 2025 guide breaks down the real costs of exploring the Switzerland mountains — from tickets and meals to tips for saving money.
What You’ll Pay for a Mountain Trip in 2025
According to HolidayCheck’s research, the total cost for a Swiss mountain excursion — return transport plus a simple vegetarian lunch — starts at around 38 CHF and can climb to more than 260 CHF, depending on where you go.
Schatzalp (Davos): 20 CHF funicular + 18 CHF lunch = 38 CHF total
Jungfraujoch (Bernese Oberland): 238 CHF train ticket + 26.50 CHF lunch = 264.50 CHF total
Gornergrat and Klein Matterhorn – Iconic but Expensive
Some of the most famous peaks in Switzerland are also among the priciest.
Gornergrat (Zermatt): 132 CHF return + 24.50 CHF lunch = 156.50 CHF
Klein Matterhorn (Zermatt): 125 CHF cable car + 28 CHF lunch = 153 CHF
These prices reflect the altitude, the effort required to build the transport systems, and the sheer popularity of these destinations.
Best Mountain Deals for Families
Not every mountain trip has to drain your wallet. A couple of family-friendly options stood out in the report:
At Hoher Kasten (Appenzell), kids under 16 travel for free and lunch costs around 12.50 CHF.
At Holzegg (Schwyz), a child’s ticket is just 10 CHF, and a meal is about 13.50 CHF.
These destinations combine beautiful views with prices that won’t break the family budget.
What You’ll Pay for a Meal at the Top
Lunch in the mountains isn’t cheap, but there’s a wide range in prices depending on where you go.
Most expensive meals: Mont Fort (Verbier) and Mittelallalin (Saas-Fee) at around 29 to 30 CHF
Most affordable meal: Schatzalp at just 18 CHF
Average: Around 24 CHF for adults and 12 CHF for children
If you want to keep costs down, pack your own picnic or choose one of the more budget-friendly peaks.
Prices Vary by Region
Where you go in Switzerland also makes a big difference. The analysis found that trips in Graubünden are often more affordable than those in the Bernese Oberland.
Average outing in Bernese Oberland: 99.67 CHF
Average in Graubünden: 66.13 CHF
So if you’re looking to stretch your budget, heading east might be the way to go.
My Favorite Switzerland Mountains
Over the years, I’ve visited many peaks across the country. Here are a few that stand out — not just for the views, but for the overall experience.
Muottas Muragl (Engadin): A funicular from Punt Muragl takes you up to one of the best panoramas in Graubünden. Sunset here is spectacular. Return ticket: about 38 CHF.
Piz Corvatsch (Engadin): Reached by cable car from Surlej, this 3,303 m peak offers sweeping glacier views. Return ticket: about 90 CHF.
Weisshorn (Arosa): One of Graubünden’s hidden gems. The cable car to the Weisshorn (2,653 m) costs around 48 CHF and rewards you with 360° views.
Pilatus (Lucerne): Famous for its steep cogwheel railway, Pilatus is easy to reach from Lucerne. Return tickets: about 78 CHF, depending on the route.
Rigi (Central Switzerland): Known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” Rigi is one of the most family-friendly options. Return tickets from Vitznau are about 72 CHF.
Overview Table: Mountain Day Trip Costs in 2025
Data source: HolidayCheck Preis-Analyse 2025
Tips to Save on Mountain Trips
Compare regions: Graubünden often costs less than the Bernese Oberland.
Check family discounts: Many peaks offer free or reduced child tickets.
Book online in advance: Early-bird tickets are often cheaper.
Pack your own food: Especially for longer trips, it can save CHF 20–40 per person.
Avoid peak season: Early summer and September bring fewer crowds and better prices.
FAQ – Switzerland Mountains
What’s the cheapest mountain trip in Switzerland? Schatzalp in Davos. At 38 CHF including lunch, it’s one of the most affordable day trips.
How much does Jungfraujoch cost in 2025? Around 265 CHF per person, including a simple meal.
Are there family-friendly mountain trips? Yes. Hoher Kasten and Holzegg are great options with free or reduced child tickets and cheaper meals.
Do prices vary by region? Yes. The Bernese Oberland is the most expensive, while Graubünden is generally more affordable.
Can I bring my own food? Of course. Many people bring snacks and water to save money, then enjoy a small treat at the summit.
Which Switzerland mountains are open year-round? Jungfraujoch, Gornergrat, and Klein Matterhorn operate all year, although weather can still cause closures.
Do I need to book tickets in advance? It’s highly recommended for Jungfraujoch and Klein Matterhorn, especially in summer and around Christmas.
Is food really more expensive in the mountains? Yes. Expect CHF 20–40 for a simple meal compared with CHF 15–25 in the valleys.
When’s the best time to avoid the crowds? September is ideal: the weather is often stable, the lifts are still open, and the summer rush is over.
Are mountain trips covered by the Swiss Travel Pass? Some are fully included, while others (like Jungfraujoch) offer up to 50% discounts. Always check the details before buying.
Final Thoughts
The Switzerland mountains are incredible to explore, but the costs vary a lot. From budget-friendly Schatzalp to the iconic Jungfraujoch, there’s a mountain trip for every type of traveler.
If you’re traveling as a family, places like Hoher Kasten and Holzegg are excellent value. If it’s your first time in Switzerland and you want the “big names,” then Jungfraujoch or Klein Matterhorn are hard to beat — just be ready for the price tag.
Planning a trip to Graubünden? The Engadine is one of our favorite regions—peaceful, scenic, and full of hidden gems. [Discover why we love it →]
Heading to the Bernese Oberland? Interlaken makes a great base for exploring the region’s top peaks. [Check out our tips for the area →]