Swiss Summit Check: Big Price Differences Between Mountain Resorts

The online travel portal HolidayCheck conducted a comprehensive analysis comparing the total costs of mountain railway rides and meals at 54 popular Swiss peaks. The results reveal which destinations are particularly family-friendly and where the mountain experience becomes an expensive pleasure.

The most important findings in advance:

• Extreme price differences: Total costs for an excursion vary from 38 CHF (Schatzalp) to 265 CHF (Jungfraujoch) per person
• Mountain railway tickets as the main price driver: Range from 20 CHF to 238 CHF for a return trip
• Most family-friendly peak: Hoher Kasten with free rides for children up to 16 years
• Altitude has its price: The three most expensive destinations are all above 3,000 meters
• Mountain railways: Price differences of over 200 CHF

The trip to the summit—whether by gondola, cable car, or cogwheel train—is often the first highlight of the day. However, a look at the ticket prices reveals enormous differences: While the Jungfraujoch costs a hefty CHF 238 for a return trip, Schatzalp and Holzegg cost only CHF 20. This enormous price range makes comparison essential, especially for families, as the differences are also significant for children.

Summit gastronomy: Main course from 18 to 30 CHF

Prices for mountain meals also vary considerably. A vegetarian main course at Mittelallalin, the world's highest revolving restaurant, is among the most expensive at CHF 29, while the Panorama Restaurant Schatzalp offers Rösti for just CHF 18. On average, guests pay CHF 24 for a main course on Swiss peaks. Children's plates cost an average of half the price of an adult meal. However, the most expensive children's portion is at the Titlis Panorama Restaurant, at CHF 17.50.

Family Check: Hoher Kasten as the clear winner

Families in particular will appreciate the offers. Hoher Kasten in the Appenzell Alps proves to be the most family-friendly peak: children up to 16 years old ride free and pay only CHF 12.50 for a portion of cheese horns with apple sauce. Holzegg in the canton of Schwyz also scores highly, with a children's ticket for CHF 10 and a children's menu for CHF 13.50.

Regional comparison: If you want to go high, you have to pay

The analysis shows clear correlations between price, altitude, and region. For example, an excursion in the canton of Bern costs an average of just under 100 Swiss francs, while in the canton of Graubünden, the average is significantly lower at 66 Swiss francs. Costs vary enormously: a trip to the Jungfraujoch, for example, is seven times more expensive than one to the Schatzalp.
Furthermore, the rule of thumb holds true: the higher the peak, the more expensive the excursion. The three most expensive destinations are all above 3,000 meters, while the cheapest are usually below 2,000 meters. The average price for all summit excursions examined is around 81 Swiss francs per person.

About the investigation

For the analysis, 54 Swiss mountain peaks above 1,300 meters were selected that are accessible by gondola, cable car, or cogwheel railway and have a restaurant near the mountain station. Prices for train tickets and meals were researched via the operators' official websites in June 2025. The data was collected to the best of our knowledge to provide a representative and up-to-date picture. However, HolidayCheck does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data.

About HolidayCheck

Making vacations better is the vision of HolidayCheck, the most widely read vacation platform in German-speaking countries. Transparency, quality, and innovation drive the online booking and review portal to offer vacationers the best travel experience. The foundation is more than 11 million hotel reviews, its own online travel agency, and offers from 65 tour operators and other tourism providers. HolidayCheck AG is a subsidiary of the HolidayCheck Group, was founded in 2003, and is headquartered in Bottighofen, Switzerland, near the German border town of Konstanz.

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