Swiss Bliss in the Valley: Lauterbrunnen 2 Day Itinerary
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Have you ever seen a landscape so unreal, it looked like a green screen? Ascend picture-perfect mountain scenery in this awe-inspiring Swiss Alps Lauterbrunnen itinerary detailing 2 days of alpine adventure.
Breathtaking views, charming villages, and cascading waterfalls are the norm in this tiny Swiss town, where you’ll step into an alpine environment unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
Planning a trip to Lauterbrunnen Switzerland? This Swiss Alps itinerary goes beyond the postcard views, covering everything you need to maximize a short stay. Situated next to a convenient cable system, visit Gimmelwald, Mürren, Birg, and the Schilthorn summit—scaling 9,744 ft in the process. From mountaintop brunches to hidden hiking trails, this curated guide is your complete roadmap to experiencing the Jungfrau region’s best valley.
Lauterbrunnen 2 Day Itinerary
In a hurry? Here’s a time-stamped overview of the detailed Lauterbrunnen 2 day itinerary found below, which is how long you need in Lauterbrunnen to sufficiently explore both the valley and mountainside.
Aside from the upper half stops along the Schilthornbahn and Trümmelbach Falls entrance ticket, all listed activities and the public transport required to reach them are completely covered by the Swiss Travel Pass—which is one of the best ways to travel around Lauterbrunnen affordably.
Day 1
Ascending the Summit & Hiking Down
9:00 - 9:57 AM: 🚡 Gimmelwald to Schilthorn transit via the Schilthornbahn cable car (57 min)
10:00 - 11:30 AM: ⛰️ Brunch at Piz Gloria and admire the Schilthorn from the viewing platform (1 hr 30 min)
11:40 AM - 12:30 PM: 🧗 Face your fear of heights on the Birg Thrill Walk (50 min)
12:50 - 1:35 PM: 🥾 Hike the beginning of the Northface Trail, departing from Mürren (45 min)
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM: 💧 Detour to the Sprutz Waterfall while watching paragliders fly overhead (40 min)
2:15 - 3:50 PM: 🚋 Finish the Northface Trail, riding the Allmendhubel Funicular back down (1 hr 35 min)
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM: 🍕 Enjoy a wood-fired pizza dinner at Mountain Hostel (1 hr 30 min)
5:30 - 6:15 PM: 🐄 Explore the quaint farm village of Gimmelwald (45 min)
6:15 - 7:45 PM: 🍻 Relax and grab a drink at Hotel Pension while joining in a piano sing-along (1 hr 30 min)
Day 2
The Valley of Waterfalls
8:30 - 9:30 AM: 🍞 Indulge in the free breakfast buffet at Mountain Hostel (1 hr)
10:05 - 10:50 AM: 🇨🇭 Explore the picturesque waterfall Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen (45 min)
10:50 - 11:35 AM: ☔ Meander down the Staubbach Falls trail and try not to get wet! (45 min)
11:35 AM - 12:50 PM: 🥾 Get your steps in with the Staubbach Falls to Trümmelbach Falls jaunt (1 hr 15 min)
12:50 - 2:20 PM: 🪨 Descend into Trümmelbach Falls and listen to the roaring water (1 hr 30 min)
5:00 - 6:30 PM: 🫕 Feast on a fondue dinner at Hotel Oberland (1 hr 30 min)
Download this interactive Google Map to your phone featuring all the stops detailed in the 2-day Lauterbrunnen itinerary above for easy navigation during your trip!
If taking a Lautebrunnen day trip from Interlaken, select one of the daily itineraries above based on whether you’re willing to deal with the hassle of the cable car commute or prefer to stay locally in town and admire nearby waterfalls. A day trip from Zurich is a poor idea, as you’ll waste nearly 6 hours roundtrip commuting to Lauterbrunnen and then back to the largest Swiss city.
For a Lauterbrunnen half day itinerary from Interlaken, opt for the day 2 plan to avoid straying too far from the train station. With an all-day 22 minute route running between these Bernese Oberland gems, this is still a reasonable time frame within which to explore the immediate area of Lauterbrunnen.
When planning a Lauterbrunnen day tour, an action-packed Lauterbrunnen itinerary can be crafted by merging the two days described above. In this case, only ascend to Mürren—which avoids extra spending on the upper half of the cable car route as well. Rather than completing the entire Northface Trail loop, continue through the Sprutz Waterfall detour down to Gimmewald. Public transportation can take you to and from Trümmelbach Falls from this vantage point. With these minor adjustments, you can see the top sites in the glacial valley while making the absolute most of your day.
Where is Lauterbrunnen Switzerland?
Located in the Jungfrau Region of central Switzerland, Lauterbrunnen is a U-shaped valley flanked by the Bernese Alps. The Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau triumvirate make up the most notorious peaks within this mountain range, and are all visible from the Schiltorn on a sunny day! The land of 72 waterfalls with a name meaning “clear springs,” the region has been shaped by centuries of natural phenomena carving the perfect geography for endless amounts of cascading water.
With a permanent population of less than 3,000 locals, the quaint village tucked within this municipality is conveniently connected to Switzerland’s robust rail network, making it both an accessible base and day trip destination. Whether you’re staying amongst the dramatic scenery or visiting from Zurich or nearby Interlaken and Grindelwald, a Lauterbrunnen trip is a can’t-miss addition to your overall Switzerland itinerary.
How to Get Around Switzerland?
The SBB Mobile app is Switzerland’s most popular public transport app and your key to success in navigating the country. Find personalized time tables and suggested routes between locations, purchase tickets, and get relevant transit information when on the move—all within a simple mobile interface.
Depending on the length of your trip and intended amount of transit, the Swiss Travel Pass could be a huge cost saver—and save you the headache of purchasing individual tickets every time you’re on the go. This singular ticket grants unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat, plus free admission to more than 500 museums and up to a 50% discount on popular mountain excursions.
Pro Tip:
If under 25, purchase the Swiss Travel Pass for even cheaper rates with a 30% discount on regular prices.
Discover which Swiss Travel Pass is right for you and learn the ins and outs of commuting by train, bus, and cable car in this comprehensive Lauterbrunnen transit guide with relevant routes and timetables from nearby destinations.
How to Get from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen?
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FROM: Zurich Airport (ZRH) (8302 Kloten, Switzerland)
TO: Lauterbrunnen (3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Zurich Flughafen → Bern Hbf via IC train 8 towards Brig → Interlaken Ost via IC train 61 towards Interlaken Ost → Lauterbrunnen via R train 62 towards Lauterbrunnen with Trainline tickets (2 hr 41 min, 2 transfers, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or CHF 84.80)
Zurich is the best city to fly into when traveling to Lauterbrunnen from outside the country, as the largest international airport in Switzerland offers the quickest rail route to this somewhat remote destination. The breezy 3-hour train ride beginning at Zurich Flughafen inside the Zurich Airport (ZRH) first connects through Bern and then Interlaken; since you have to travel through Interlaken to reach Lauterbrunnen, plan to spend a few days in the adventure capital of Switzerland too!
Trains are punctual, picturesque, and covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, making them the easiest choice if you’re traveling Switzerland by rail. The countryside views on each regional leg are breathtaking, especially during the last segment into Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Parking is quite limited, with lots filling up quickly during the peak summer season. The main car park is at the train station, where many visitors leave their vehicles before using cable cars to reach the car-free mountain villages. Overnight parking is possible, but daily fees add up. Unless you’re on a road trip, avoid this hassle by using public transportation rather than driving, since the train is the most seamless and scenic way into Lauterbrunnen. As an added benefit, enjoy the passing mountain scenery without needing to keep your eyes locked on the road.
After arriving at the train station, the highly walkable village is only 1 mile long, taking 20 minutes to walk from end to end. The main Auf der Fuhren street is compact, lined with cafés, bakeries, and hotels, and the Staubbach Falls trail begins right from town. Beyond that use Switzerland’s famously efficient alpine transport:
PostBus: The bright yellow buses connect Lauterbrunnen with frequent service to nearby spots like the Stechelberg station at the far end of the valley, where you can catch the cable car up to Mürren.
Cable cars: The only way to reach car-free villages like Gimmelwald perched above the valley. One across from the train station runs from Lauterbrunnen up to Grütschalp in 4 minutes, with transfer via an 11-minute narrow-gauge railway ride to Mürren. The Schilthornbahn route climbs from Stechelberg up to Mürren with panoramic stops at Birg and the Schilthorn further up.
Trains to Wengen & Jungfraujoch: A cogwheel train from Lauterbrunnen climbs to the village of Wengen and continues toward Kleine Scheidegg. From there, the Jungfraujoch railway reaches the “Top of Europe” at 3,454m — one of Switzerland’s most famous alpine excursions and notably an extra expense not covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.
Still deciding whether to visit Lauterbrunnen or Interlaken? This guide compares the unique attributes of the two most popular Bernese Oberland destinations to help you pick the best Swiss base aligned to your travel preferences.
Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen?
I’ll be honest, this title is misleading. My recommendation isn’t to stay in a Lauterbrunnen hotel, instead it’s to stay above Lauterbrunnen in a village called Gimmelwald, specifically in the Mountain Hostel (official site).
Picture this: You’ll wake up in the most adorable wooden cabin with staggering snow-capped mountains in the background. This particular hostel is only reachable via cable car, meaning there’s not one vehicle in the entire village. It’s so peacefully quiet you can hear roaring waterfalls echo throughout the valley. Yeah, these hills are alive!
Pro Tip:
This is a hostel, so you won’t get the usual hotel fixings. Rent towels for 2 CHF, but be sure to bring your own toiletries, including toothpaste and shower supplies.
If that hasn’t convinced you, I cannot emphasize enough how perfectly quaint Mountain Hostel is. Lounge in swinging wicker chairs and hammocks scattered throughout the property with an endless supply of choose-your-own-topping wood-fired pizza at your disposal. My fellow guests were all incredibly kind and open-minded, with drinks shared over rounds of cards played late into the evening.
If that’s not enticing enough, you’re nearly guaranteed to run into their hostel cat, Shadow. I mistakenly believed I was summoning a stray barn cat back to the hostel, but it turns out he lives there and just wanted a bite of my Nutella toast from the breakfast spread! I’m not a big hostel person—and I really only book them between hotel stints to save money—but I could rave about Mountain Hostel forever. It’s one of my favorite places I’ve ever stayed and I’d absolutely come back in a heartbeat.
Want to learn more about Mountain Hostel? Not quite sold on staying in Gimmelwald—or a hostel for that matter? Read more about my youth hostel stay and why I selected this particular Lauterbrunnen lodging!
No matter where you stay, ensure you can sleep soundly at night by securing travel medical insurance before you go.
I prefer SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for convenient coverage across borders, since I’m always looking to maximize an international flight with multiple passport stamps collected along the way.
The Essential plan is best suited for mid- to short-term travelers like me balancing a 9-5 with unexpected medical and travel risk coverage.
How to Get from Lauterbrunnen to Gimmelwald?
FROM: Lauterbrunnen (3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland)
TO: Gimmelwald (3826 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Lauterbrunnen, Bahnhof → Stechelberg, Schilthornbahn via bus 141 towards Stechelberg, Hotel → Gimmelwald via Schilthornbahn (36 min, 8 stops then nonstop, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or CHF 11.00)
I know what you’re thinking: is Gimmelwald really only accessible by cable car? The short answer is yes—and that’s the beauty of it—but with a Swiss Travel Pass all cable car rides are included anyways! Without a pass, plan trips up and down the mountain in advance to avoid spending money on cable car rides willy-nilly.
To get to Gimmelwald from Lauterbrunnen, first disembark from the train at Lauterbrunnen station. Cross the tracks and walk a few hundred feet to the Lauterbrunnen, Bahnhof stop on the right, boarding bus 141 towards Stechelberg, Schilthornbahn. The ride is 12 minutes long to the cable car station. In lieu of a Swiss Travel Pass, purchase tickets in the SBB Mobile app, from a ticketing machine, from the ticket office in Lauterbrunnen, or directly from the bus driver.
Ride the Stechelberg-Schilthorn cable car for 5 minutes to the first stop of Gimmelwald. With a Swiss Travel Pass, simply scan the pass when entering the queue. Otherwise, purchase tickets in-person at kiosks around the gondola station. Uphill journeys from Stechelberg run at 6 and 36 minutes past the hour, beginning at 5:53 AM. The cars fit roughly 30 people—plus some kids and luggage—so you may have to wait for a few to pass during peak season. If continuing on to Mountain Hostel, exit the cable car and find the hostel sign up to the left, walking up the dirt path directly outside the station.
You’re probably wondering: is all this initial transit really worth it? Once again, the answer is yes, I promise it is. Taking three trains to a bus to a cable car isn’t ideal for efficiency’s sake, but it’s the price paid for the unparalleled natural beauty you’ll see on the rest of this trip. And hey, it’s about the journey, not just the destination—right?
What to Do in Lauterbrunnen?
FROM: Gimmelwald (3826 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland)
TO: Schilthorn (3826 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Gimmelwald → Schilthorn via Schilthornbahn (32 min, 3 stops, roundtrip CHF 56.00 w/ Swiss Travel Pass or CHF 112.00)
Day 1
Now onto the good stuff. Spend your first day of this Lauterbrunnen 2 day itinerary working from the top peak all the way back down. And yes, there’s a method to the madness.
The Schilthorn is the summit of the highest Bernese Alps mountain north of the Sefinenfurgge Pass. Traveling down from the peak, stop at Birg, Mürren, and Gimmelwald in that order, until reaching the final cable car stop at the base of the valley in Stechelberg.
Schilthorn
Begin the day at 8:00 AM so that by the time you reach the Schilthorn, there’s still panoramic views of the Bernese Oberland in all directions. Given the peak is a whopping 9,744 ft in the air, thick cloud coverage often descends in the late morning—obstructing the view and defeating the purpose of traveling all the way up there. Hence, why an early morning start is necessary.
Pose on the Skyline platform with a spectacular view of the Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau and more than 200 other summits as your backdrop to curate the perfect Swiss postcard to send home. You may need to wait your turn before snapping this coveted Swiss skyline shot!
Even with a Swiss Travel Pass, the cable car journey is only free up to Mürren, with a 50% discount on the rest of the journey to the Schilthorn. Buy a roundtrip ticket for CHF 112 from Swiss Railways or at the Mürren cable car station. Uphill journeys from Gimmelwald run every 13 and 43 minutes past the hour, with the total ride to the peak taking 32 minutes.
Brunch — Piz Gloria
The summit is where the real fun happens. The Schilthorn is famous for a 360° revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, which served as a film location in the iconic Bond movie, On Her Majesty's Secret Service. Given the connection to the franchise, the interior is James Bond-themed with a free interactive Spy World exhibit and cinema projecting spectacular stunts from the classic film.
Reward yourself for waking up early with the Schilthorn Brunch, served daily until 2:00 PM. For CHF 38/person, eat and drink mimosas to your heart’s content while watching impressive mountain scenery glide by as the Piz Gloria slowly rotates around its axis every 45 minutes.
At the end of the day a buffet is a buffet, but I found the spread to be quite diverse with options for every palette—including classic Swiss delicacies and dishes for most (if not all) dietary restrictions. Book brunch at Piz Gloria in advance to ensure a table.
Birg
Downhill journeys from the Schilthorn run at 17 and 47 minutes past the hour, with the last downhill journey leaving at 5:17 PM. The ride is a brisk 5 minutes to Birg! Descending to 8783 ft, trade snowy scapes for rugged, rocky terrain you can get up close and personal with. The Skyline Walk, an observation deck extension of the sun terrace suspended over the abyss below, is the perfect place to take photos against this craggy landscape before embarking on the Thrill Walk.
Opposite the Skyline Walk, the daunting Thrill Walk winds around the perpendicular wall of the imposing rock massif. Face your fear of heights by carefully climbing through the steel structure jutting out from the rock face. Carefully putting one foot in front of the other will bring you under the observation deck before ending below the cable car station.
Daredevil features include a crawl-through tunnel, glass-bottom floor, tightrope walk, and cattle grid to deepen the sense of adventure. In the event of heavy snowfall, the footbridge must first be cleared in the morning, which may delay the opening. If you weren’t hungry at Piz Gloria, the Birg Bistro presents another opportunity to grab a meal, open daily from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Soak in stunning scenes throughout the valley while eating Swiss delicacies by planning meals on your Lauterbrunnen itinerary around the best Lauterbrunnen restaurants with a view!
Mürren
Downhill journeys from Birg run at 6 and 36 minutes past the hour, with the ride down to Mürren lasting 5 minutes. After eating brunch, admiring the views, and warming up your legs on the Thrill Walk—it’s time to start hiking! This is the most breathtaking hike I’ve ever been on, and the trail drops you right in Gimmelwald!
After exiting the cable car station in Mürren, embark on the Northface Trail. The scenery embodies quintessential Switzerland, and if you only pick one hike for your Lauterbrunnen itinerary—this should be the one. This trail has a bit of everything: stunning mountain vistas, tiny villages of rustic cabins nestled in the hills, blooming alpine meadows, and cows with twinkling bells dangling from their necks. If the views on the ground weren’t compelling enough, look up to see paragliders floating overhead!
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Take a left out of the cable car station onto the paved Via Alpina path, walking until the first “Northface Trail” sign indicates you’re headed in the correct direction. The trail is extremely well-marked with sign posts stationed along the entire hike, so any time you come to a fork in the road simply follow the blue arrow pointing towards the “Northface Trail.”
Heading away from Mürren and through farmland, the wide paved trail becomes a narrow dirt path as you traverse deeper into nature, passing quaint cottages and rustic farmhouses along the way. Walk for approximately 1.5 miles—roughly 45 minutes—on the Northface Trail before approaching a fork in the road and sign pointing to the Sprutz Waterfall detour.
As with the rest of the trail, the route is clearly marked, so it will be fairly obvious when you need to change course to take this detour. If you take the detour, walk for 20 minutes on a forest trail almost entirely comprised of downhill switchbacks. This is a great deal if you continue on downhill to Gimmelwald, but to complete the rest of the Northface Trail you’ll have to climb back up all that way.
After enjoying the serene beauty of the Sprutz Waterfall, I decided to continue back down to Gimmelwald. I’m not exactly sure which trail I followed (if any?), but I began by heading up the steps behind the waterfall, opposite the direction I originally came.
A clear path existed with hand rails and arrows painted on tree trunks indicating the correct direction, until I eventually broke out from the forest and stepped onto the hillside looking down at the valley below. From here I could see the village of Gimmelwald myself, so I continued walking downhill on narrow dirt paths to avoid disrupting plants in the surrounding fields. Common sense should lead you in the right direction—and that’s coming from someone who can’t navigate their hometown without Apple Maps!
Although this route is described as a hike, in reality it’s closer to an easy walking trail that’s very doable for the average person. Some houses on the trail even offer bathrooms, food, and water. Head out from the cable car station and follow the loop clockwise. Detour to the Sprutz Waterfall and hike down to Gimmelwald, or complete the full 4.6 mile—roughly 2.5 hour—loop ending with a ride down the Allmendhubel funicular back to Mürren. The Swiss Travel Pass provides 50% off the funicular, so a one-way ticket costs an additional 7 CHF. The funicular runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, departing every 20 minutes, but doesn’t operate year-round and is periodically closed for maintenance; check the timetable and status before you arrive.
I recommend taking the detour to walk directly behind a raging waterfall! There was hardly anyone else around when I hiked this trail, allowing me to peacefully soak in the sound of roaring water while feeling fully immersed in nature.
Pro Tip:
The trail to the Sprutz Waterfall is quite muddy and on a steep downward slope—if it’s recently rained, wear hiking boots to avoid taking a tumble.
Gimmelwald
After a hard day’s work, sit back, relax, and enjoy a pint of beer. I met up with friends at Mountain Hostel and ordered a few pizzas with our favorite toppings to share. You could also indulge in Swiss classics like cheese raclettes, Gimmelwaldner rauchwurst also known as smoked sausage, or fondue—although I would wait for fondue tomorrow from Hotel Oberland in Lauterbrunnen. After trekking up and down the mountain, now is the perfect time to take a cat nap outside in the afternoon sun. Maybe Shadow will join you!
Spend the rest of the evening exploring the quaint town of Gimmelwald. Some highlights include the Honesty Shop, which—like the name implies—has no employees present and depends on your integrity to leave correct payment in exchange for anything taken. Many farms in the valley operate on this same premise; unmanned refrigerators offer cheese, milk, and jerky with payments deposited in a nearby lockbox.
It’s worthwhile to stroll amongst the farms, cottages, and bed & breakfasts dotting the village, since every structure looks straight out of a storybook. If you wander into Hotel Pension, you might just find a rowdy, piano-led sing-along to classics like “Sweet Caroline” underway.
Day 2
Lauterbrunnen
If residing at Mountain Hostel, wake up between 7:30 - 10:00 AM to catch the free breakfast brunch. The earlier you go, the wider spread of options you’ll have to choose from. Otherwise, there’s a smattering of bed & breakfast options in Gimmelwald, a Coop supermarket in Mürren, and even more restaurants in Lauterbrunnen to grab breakfast at.
Now that you’re familiar with the mountain overlooking Lauterbrunnen Valley, spend the second of this Lauterbrunnen 2 day itinerary exploring town!
Staubbach Falls
You already passed this geological wonder on the bus ride over to Stechelberg. Staubbach Falls, the signature waterfall of Lauterbrunnen Valley, towers over the quaint village, free falling nearly 297 meters from the ledge of an overhanging cliff.
Staubbach Falls can be viewed from a few vantage points across town. Take pictures with this thundering wall of water next to the Cycling Coffee Shop or take a short hike to get a closer look. The 0.4-mile out-and-back path leads through a tunnel up stairs to a lookout behind the water, taking approximately 30 minutes to reach. The area behind the falling water can get damp and slippery; bring a rain jacket to stay dry and shoes with sufficient tread.
Trümmelbach Falls
FROM: Staubbach Falls (3825 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland)
TO: Trümmelbach Falls (Gydisdorf 341, 3824 Stechelberg, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Lauterbrunnen, Ey → Trümmelbachfälle via Lauterbrunnen-Stechelberg bus 141 (5 min, 3 stops, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or CHF 3)
After seeing a waterfall spewing from the top of a mountain during your Lauterbrunnen trip, explore a raging underground waterfall! Trümmelbach Falls (official site) includes 10 glacial subterranean waterfalls, originating from the enormous drainage of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks respectively. It takes 1-2 hours to enjoy the falls connected by a network of walkways, tunnels, and galleries.
Up to a spectacular 20,000 liters of water flow through the caverns each second. This figure might not seem impressive when read on a screen, but the deafening noise vibrating through the caverns will undoubtedly make you understand the sheer power of the water rushing by.
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Trümmelbach Falls are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily from the beginning of April to the beginning of November, and from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM in July and August.
The entrance fee is 16 CHF for adults and 7 CHF for children, which can be paid with either cash or card. These falls are privately owned, so unfortunately this is one rare instance where the Swiss Travel Pass won’t cut you any deals.
To get to Trümmelbach Falls, take bus 141 from Lauterbrunnen, Ey to Trümmelbachfälle entailing a 5 minute ride for CHF 3 one way. Alternatively, hike the same 2.2 mile route from Lauterbrunnen Switzerland to the falls, with one way taking approximately 50 minutes to walk. When walking through town, yellow hiking signs indicate the direction to go—follow the arrow pointing towards “Trümmelbachfälle.”
Upon arrival, take an elevator lift up to a point between the 6th and 7th falls. Then continue upwards, climbing steps to view the four upper falls, before continuing back down to see the six lower falls. Taking the lift when you first arrive will reduce the majority of the uphill trekking needed, however, you have to climb a few flights to see the glorious upper falls either way. After that, it’s all downhill from there!
Visit Staubbach Falls first, get your photos, and then walk to Trümmelbach Falls. Since Staubbach Falls is conveniently on the way to Trümmelbach Falls, you will enjoy the full length of this serene, paved trail when you’re most energized for the day. Then, after you’ve seen both sights, relax on the bus ride back into town!
Dinner — Hotel Oberland
Indulge in a Swiss classic for dinner—you can’t leave Switzerland without trying their world-famous chocolate and cheese fondue! Hotel Oberland is the perfect place to order the latter. Situated alongside the main road running through Lauterbrunnen, dining on the patio provides a perfect view of the valley with people watching on the side!
The steaming pot of warm, bubbly cheese fondue is served with bread cubes and potatoes, which I paired with classic spaghetti and red wine. Exhaustion from a long travel day may have fueled this reaction, but I was blown away by not only the fondue, but also by the spaghetti? On top of that, the waitstaff was incredibly kind and acquiescent to all my requests, storing my luggage, moving up my reservation time, and letting me pick my preferred table outside.
Pro Tip:
If you happen to be coming or going, Hotel Oberland will kindly store your luggage inside the dining room during your delicious dinner.
As the day winds down, take one last opportunity to gaze over the stunning natural beauty that is the Lauterbrunnen Valley. This was a landscape that immediately took my breath away, and my brain struggled to process that the views were even real! It’s not every day you get to look at a 4K green screen in real life, so soak it in—looking back at your photos won’t do it justice.
Best Day Trips from Lauterbrunnen
From its convenient central valley location, Lauterbrunnen opens the door to an array of other Swiss highlights worth visiting—perfect additions to round out your Jungfrau alpine adventure:
Interlaken — Only 22 minutes away by train, the adventure capital of the country is one of the top Switzerland destinations beloved by outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. While Interlaken could easily be visited as a day trip from Lauterbrunnen, I believe it deserves a proper visit with at least 2 nights spent between the turquoise glacier lakes. Check out my Interlaken travel guide if you need more convincing!
Wengen — Just 11 minutes up the mountain, Wengen is a car-free alpine village perched above Lauterbrunnen with sweeping valley views and charming chalet-lined streets. Unlike the Schilthorn stops described in this guide which lie south of the village and are first reached by bus before boarding the cable car, Wengen lies north of town accessible via a direct, rack railway departing directly from the train station. Comparable in size and commercialization to Mürren, I’m partial to the latter since there’s three other destinations along the gondola route to explore, but it is more difficult to reach than Wengen with multiple transit segments. If you have the time, you might as well visit both!
Grindelwald — Surrounded by dramatic peaks and glaciers at the base of the Eiger, Grindelwald is one of the larger alpine villages in the Jungfrau region. 40 minutes away from Lauterbrunnen by train, this bustling mountain resort sprawls across the valley floor with multiple gondola stations and a wider range of hotels, restaurants, and shops compared to quaint, compact Lauterbrunnen. If you’re seeking a larger swath of dining and accommodation options, consider flipping this plan around by staying in Grindelwald and taking a day trip to Lauterbrunnen.
Jungfrau — Nearly 90 minutes from Lauterbrunnen by a combination of trains and cogwheel railway, the Jungfraujoch—nicknamed the “Top of Europe”—is a bucket-list peak rising to 3,454 meters. The journey itself is an attraction, winding past alpine meadows and glaciers before arriving at panoramic viewing platforms, ice tunnels, and Europe’s highest railway station. However, the transportation involved is notably one of the only segments not covered by the Swiss Travel Pass. Though often done as a day trip, its sheer spectacle makes this one of the most unforgettable highlights of the region.
How Much Do Two Days in Lauterbrunnen Valley Cost?
Following the above Lauterbrunnen 2 day itinerary cost me CHF 362.05—or $399.80 at the time of writing—as a young college student on a budget. I kept my travel expenses extremely low thanks to the Swiss Travel Pass, which paid for nearly all my transportation! While Switzerland is often touted as an expensive destination, alpine youth hostel accommodations and free experiences in the great outdoors can make it budget-friendly:
Food — CHF 115.75
Activities — CHF 14
Transportation — CHF 142.30
Lodging — CHF 90
The Allmendhubel funicular ride at the end of the Northface Trail adds an additional expense, as well as staying at a nicer hotel rather than Lauterbrunnen hostels and budget lodging, or going out for drinks either night.
If you’re on a tighter budget, many food stands stationed around Lauterbrunnen offer a range of international cuisines; otherwise, buy groceries at the Coop supermarket in Mürren.
What to Wear in Lauterbrunnen?
Lauterbrunnen is all about functional fashion. No matter the season, pack athletic gear tailored to your itinerary with layers to accommodate varying temperatures between the valley floor and peak.
Even in the summer, pair workout sets with cozy pullovers and vests since snow lingers at the summit! Incorporate bright colors and bold prints to contrast stylishly against the vibrant green landscape: pull in pieces from brands like Set Active, Free People Movement, Alo, New Balance, and Hoka to craft a practical Lauterbrunnen outfit that pops!
Matching Sets
complementary athletic co-ords as fashionable as they are functional for days spent outdoors
Patterned Pullovers
cozy, colorful pullovers with color block prints provide insulation on chilly, snow-capped peaks
Adventure Shorts
pockets, clasps, and buckles keep your cargo secure when scaling via ferratas or walking behind waterfalls!
Lightweight Puffer
rain or shine, a compact layer ensures you’re prepared for anything while adding a vibrant pop to your ensemble
Outdoorsy Vests
puffer, nylon, and fuzzy vests are perfect for layering as the temperature begins to drop
Hiking Shoes
colorful hiking boots and sturdy sneakers keep you light on your feet from one hike to the next
Discover where I purchased my pictured pieces with Lauterbrunnen summer outfit inspiration to help you curate your own outdoor adventure travel wardrobe!
When is the Best Time to Visit Lauterbrunnen Switzerland?
A true year-round destination with something new to offer in every season, Lauterbrunnen embodies a quintessential Switzerland travel experience as one month rolls into the next:
Spring (March–May) — As the snow melts and alpine meadows bloom, Lauterbrunnen transforms into a lush green valley of waterfalls and wildflowers. Trails gradually reopen, though higher-altitude paths may still hold snow into late spring. Average temperatures climb from around 40 °F (5 °C) in March to the upper 50s °F (14 °C) by May, with cool nights requiring layers lingering. Spring is ideal for fewer crowds and a quieter experience, but pack waterproof layers since rain showers are common.
Summer (June–August) — Summer is undoubtedly the peak season, drawing visitors from around the world eager to hike, bike, and base-jump amid the valley’s 72 waterfalls. Daytime highs average 68–75 °F (20–24 °C), though cooler evenings dip into the 50s °F (10–13 °C). Expect long daylight hours perfect for alpine treks but also be aware of the potential for challenging weather events. Afternoon rain showers are common, and heavy rainfall can occasionally trigger flooding or landslides, especially in July. With popularity comes higher hotel rates and busier trails, so book well ahead if you’re visiting in these high-traffic months.
Fall (September–November) — Autumn paints golden foliage across the valley and fewer crowds compared to the bustling summer. September still offers mild hiking weather with highs in the low 60s °F (16–18 °C), but by November temperatures cool to the low 40s °F (5–6 °C) with frost at night. Rainfall remains a factor, especially in October, though crisp, clear days offer spectacular views of fiery larch and maple trees against snow-dusted peaks. Fall is a lovely time to balance scenic hikes with cozy evenings in mountain lodges.
Winter (December–February) — Blanketed in snow, Lauterbrunnen becomes a postcard-perfect alpine retreat. Average highs hover just above freezing with lows dipping into the 20s °F (–4 to –6 °C). While the valley itself offers peaceful winter walks and frozen water features, nearby resorts like Mürren and Grindelwald-Wengen transform into world-class winter sport destinations. Pack insulated gear to stay warm while enjoying festive Christmas markets, digging into bubbling fondue in candlelit chalets, and snowshoeing through hushed alpine forests.
Is Switzerland Worth the Hype?
Is Switzerland notoriously one of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe? Yes. And is it completely worth the hype? Yes, yes, a million times—yes.
Switzerland stands out as a premier travel destination for a multitude of reasons, including its breathtaking natural beauty, cultural richness, impeccable infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability. The majestic Swiss Alps, with their snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes, offer an unparalleled outdoor experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, while charming cities seamlessly blend modern sophistication with the rest of the country’s serene landscapes.
I firmly believe Switzerland's commitment to quality is the secret sauce which elevates every aspect of its society. Renowned for efficient transportation, squeaky-clean and safe cities, and delectable culinary delights, the indulgent country ensures a comfortable travel experience for all as the Swiss attention to detail extends to their hospitality, offering visitors a warm welcome and sense of ease.
Four days in Switzerland was not nearly enough, and I’ll be booking a flight back as soon as the opportunity presents itself. I’ve told everyone in my personal life they must visit Switzerland at least once, and the same is true for you! Travel to Switzerland and you won’t be disappointed.
Lauterbrunnen for First-Timers: FAQs
Do they speak English in Lauterbrunnen?
The four national languages of Switzerland are German, French, Italian, and Romansh; with Swiss German being the most commonly spoken in Lauterbrunnen given the Bernese Oberland locale. In the German-speaking canton of Bern, everyday life, signage, and local interactions are primarily in Swiss German. However, the heavy flow of international tourists has necessitated English proficiency amongst hotels, restaurants, and excursion providers—I never encountered a language barrier at any of the highlights recommended in this Lauterbrunnen valley itinerary. You’ll occasionally hear French or Italian, but they’re far less common here than German and English.
What is the currency in Lauterbrunnen?
Payment in Lauterbrunnen is notably not made in euros; instead, Swiss francs are expected as the nation’s official currency, abbreviated as CHF or Fr. Some larger tourist spots might accept euros, but the exchange rate is poor and change will be given in francs, so it’s best to have CHF.
Card payments are widely accepted, with cash a nice to have for small kiosks, mountain huts, and rural spots like self-service cheese stations. Tipping isn’t required since service charges are included, though rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for outstanding service is always a kind gesture.
How many days in Lauterbrunnen?
If you’re wondering how long to stay in Lauterbrunnen, at least one day is necessary to explore the village and nearby water features, making a Lauterbrunnen day trip possible from nearby towns like Interlaken, Wengen, and Grindelwald. If you plan to ascend the Schilthorn, however, an extra day is advisable given the extended cable car commute and possibility of long lines during the peak summer season.
What are the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen?
A trip to Lauterbrunnen Switzerland wouldn’t be complete without seeing the signature Staubbach Falls up close, since this iconic landmark is what makes the Swiss town particularly picturesque. Trying traditional cheese fondue in a charming chalet is another must—Hotel Oberland is my pick for this dish—in addition to experiencing the alpine scenery firsthand on one of the many lush hikes originating from the valley.
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✺ ABOUT ME ✺
Hi, I’m Ashley. I’m determined to see the world. All of it. Are you coming with?
While I respect the digital nomads, van life, and the hardcore backpackers—that’s just not me.
I’m convinced I can travel and keep my job.
It’ll take a lifetime, but I’m going to make it to all 195 countries before my time is up—and I’m taking you along for the ride!
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