Switzerland Mountains: 2025 Cost Guide for Visiting the Peaks
- Stefan
- Jul 21
- 4 min read
Updated: 11 hours ago
A trip into the Switzerland mountains is always a highlight. Whether you ride up to Jungfraujoch, visit Schatzalp in Davos, or stand on the Klein Matterhorn, the views are incredible. Switzerland is known for higher prices, so it helps to know what you will actually spend.
A recent price comparison by HolidayCheck provides a very clear picture of what you will actually pay in 2025. The analysis includes return tickets and a simple lunch on the mountain. I have added my own experience from the past years to help you plan your trip and avoid surprises.
What a Switzerland Mountain Trip Costs in 2025
According to the HolidayCheck data, a complete mountain excursion that includes return transport and a vegetarian lunch starts at around 38 CHF and can reach more than 260 CHF.
Examples
Schatzalp in Davos: 20 CHF funicular plus 18 CHF lunch equals 38 CHF in total.
Jungfraujoch in the Bernese Oberland: 238 CHF train ticket plus 26.50 CHF lunch equals 264.50 CHF in total.
Schatzalp is currently the most affordable option, while Jungfraujoch remains one of the most expensive day trips in the country.
Gornergrat and Klein Matterhorn: Popular and Expensive
Zermatt has two of the most famous viewpoints in Switzerland. The prices reflect the engineering effort and the popularity of these destinations.
Gornergrat: 132 CHF return ticket plus 24.50 CHF lunch equals 156.50 CHF.
Klein Matterhorn: 125 CHF cable car plus 28 CHF lunch equals 153 CHF.
The views are incredible and the experience is worth it, especially on a clear day.
Best Mountain Deals for Families
There are also family friendly mountains that offer excellent value.
Hoher Kasten (Appenzell), kids under 16 travel for free and lunch costs around 12.50 CHF.
Holzegg (Schwyz), a child’s ticket is just 10 CHF, and a meal is about 13.50 CHF.
Both mountains offer beautiful views and relaxed atmospheres at a much more reasonable price.
How Much Does Lunch Cost on the Mountain
Mountain restaurants are known for higher prices. The range is wider than most people expect.
Most expensive meals: Mont Fort in Verbier and Mittelallalin in Saas Fee at around 29 to 30 CHF.
Most affordable meal: Schatzalp at 18 CHF.
Average: Around 24 CHF for adults and around 12 CHF for children.
If you want to save money, bring snacks or a picnic and enjoy the views from one of the outdoor terraces.
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 →]
