Jungfraujoch or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?

Pick the one where you are when you know the night before that weather is clear. These are not decisions you make far in advance given the costs. It would be easier for people to make recommendations if you include the exact week you are you going. I have been to Switzerland 5 times in the last 8 years and decided to go up to the Schilthorn the Jungfrau, and to see the Matterhorn the day of. The Jungfrau is my least favorite as it is very popular, tourists seemed to be in a rush and lose their manners. The Gornergratbahn up to see the Matterhorn is like that too especially if you don't get the earliest ascent up possible. Avoid arriving after 10 am. I enjoyed Mt Titlis better than Jungfrau.

We will be there from September 20-October 2. Thanks for the suggestion and input. janet

Honestly, I’d skip both. I found the Jungfraujoch to be a miserable experience.

For a nice walk in Zermatt, I recommend the walk to and through the Gorner Gorge.

https://zermatt.swiss/en/p/gorner-gorge-01tVj000005DonMIAS

Some other ideas here for Zermatt:

https://www.earthtrekkers.com/how-to-visit-sunnegga-blauherd-and-rothorn-zermatt/

From Murren, my favorites are Mannlichen, Schynige Platte, Allmendhubel.

I prefer the lower elevation mountains.

If you scroll through my trip reports, you can see what else I have enjoyed in those areas:

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/solo-in-switzerland-june-2024-my-trip-report

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/solo-in-switzerland-my-trip-report

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/still-dreaming-of-switzerland-a-trip-report

Thanks Carrie, I will look at all your links. I do hate just to go where the crowd is. I have some hikes in my notes, I will have to compare. Your reply is very much appreciated! Lots of work.

“A nice walk” describes neither. They are crowded viewing platforms. The only way to walk up at Jungfraujoch is through the in underground ice palace.

Thank you Wanderweg, I think I will save my money on both! Doesn’t sound like our thing. Janet

Did both last August, think time of day is key. Go as early as possible, the crowds will be arriving as you leave. The large groups are not moving yet for the early arrivals. Enjoyed both ourselves. Same is true for Schlitzhorn, easy early access from Murren. You can ignore the James Bond stuff if so desired. We also are early 70's, one time opportunity to do these places.

Carrie, I knew some of those things looked familiar. I had already saved your report and read it several times. Thanks