Lauterbrunnen may just be my favourite Swiss town. It’s an impossibly picturesque valley town located in the Swiss Alps, known for its stunning natural beauty.
With magnificent waterfalls, towering mountains and pretty flower meadows, this Swiss town looks as though it’s been lifted from the pages of a storybook.
With easy access to the nearby mountains, Lauterbrunnen is a hub for outdoor adventure. Activities like hiking, skiing, and paragliding are all popular, plus it’s a hot spot for daredevil base jumpers and wingsuit flyers (I’d maybe leave that to the professionals!).
Visitors to Lauterbrunnen can explore the scenic valley on foot or take a train to the top of the mountains for unspoilt panoramic views.
The town’s most famous attraction is Staubbach Falls, towering at just under 300 metres tall and cascading down the cliffs above the town. Trust me when I say that it will take your breath away!
Other popular Lauterbrunnen waterfalls include the Trümmelbach Falls, which are located inside a mountain and can be accessed via a series of tunnels and elevators.
In addition to its unparalleled natural beauty, Lauterbrunnen offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
I don’t think there is a better place to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps than in Lauterbrunnen. In this guide, I share my top tips for visiting this town, as well as the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen for your visit.
How to get to Lauterbrunnen
I love that Lauterbrunnen is easily accessible from nearby towns and cities. Here are the best ways to get to Lauterbrunnen:
By train
In my opinion, the easiest way to get to Lauterbrunnen is by train. The Swiss village is well-connected to major cities in Switzerland, such as Zurich, Geneva, and Bern.
The train journey to Lauterbrunnen is part of the experience in itself. It is wonderfully scenic and offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.
The village is served by the Wengernalpbahn Railway, a cog railway which is included in the Swiss Travel Pass. This line serves other charming Swiss towns and villages, including Grindelwald and Wengen.
The nearest town to the village is Interlaken, and people often travel as a day trip to Lauterbrunnen. If you’re staying there overnight, discover my pick of the best hotels in Interlaken.
The train journey from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen takes just 20 minutes, so it’s an ideal location to explore.
On my recent visit, there was actually engineering work so no trains were running; instead I got a replacement bus service which was just as picturesque!
By car
If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car from major cities in Switzerland and drive to Lauterbrunnen.
I’ve read elsewhere that Lauterbrunnen is a car-free town – but it isn’t! I sort of wish it was, as it would make it even more charming. But that should be good news for anyone planning to drive.
The village is located just over 2 hours from Zurich and 2 hours 30 minutes from Geneva. Discover my pick of the best hotels in Zurich if you plan to stay in the city.
Lauterbrunnen has a multi-story car park attached to the train station, as well as limited parking at the smaller car park near the church.
Good to know: Due to limited parking at nearby attractions, parking in Lauterbrunnen can be expensive.
By bus
There are also buses that run from major cities in Switzerland to Lauterbrunnen. While the journey can take longer by bus than the train, the views are just as breathtaking.
As mentioned above, I actually ended up getting a bus myself, as there were rail replacement buses due to engineering works on the trains.
By air
Bern-Belp Airport is a medium international airport located just under 60 kilometres away from Lauterbrunnen. From the airport, you can take a train or a bus directly to Lauterbrunnen.
The drive from Bern-Belp airport to Lauterbrunnen takes just under one hour. If you plan to stay in the city, discover my pick of the best hotels in Bern.
Alternatively, you can fly into the major airports Zurich or Geneva and take a train or drive to Lauterbrunnen.
Best time of year to visit Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is a beautiful fairytale Swiss village that is worth visiting at any time of the year. However, I think that the best time to visit Lauterbrunnen depends on what you want to do and see during your trip.
Spring (March – May)
With the flowers in bloom as the snow starts to melt, Lauterbrunnen comes alive with colour. The weather is mild, and you can enjoy hiking and cycling as well as exploring the local culture.
Visiting the village in spring is a great idea if you want to avoid the crowds of the summer months. I’d say spring is my personal favourite time to visit Lauterbrunnen.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Lauterbrunnen, and for good reason. The weather is warm and sunny, and the longer days provide plenty of time to explore and appreciate the beauty of the area.
During the summer months, outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, paragliding, and paddleboarding take centre stage.
Autumn (September – November)
I think Autumn is another wonderful time to visit Lauterbrunnen, as it’s quieter and worlds away from the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.
The weather is still pleasant and the changing colours of the leaves add a new dimension to the natural beauty of the landscape.
I’d recommend this as a great time to experience the local culture and explore the history of the Swiss village.
Winter (December – February)
If you’re seeking a winter wonderland, visiting Lauterbrunnen in the cooler months is truly a magical experience.
With epic snow-capped mountains and picture-perfect scenery, both tourists and locals enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
You can also make the most of seasonal events such as Christmas markets and New Year’s celebrations.
12 best things to do in Lauterbrunnen
There are plenty of things to see and do in lovely Lauterbrunnen, making it an ideal location for nature lovers, thrill seekers, and anyone looking to experience the very best of Swiss culture.
From hiking and skiing to sightseeing and exquisite fine dining, I love that there is something for everyone in this charming village.
Here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen:
1. Wander through Lauterbrunnen village
A village that exemplifies true Swiss character, Lauterbrunnen is nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountains.
One of the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen is simply to take a leisurely stroll through the quaint village and soak in the picturesque scenery.
The village is home to several traditional Swiss chalets, which have been beautifully preserved and maintained.
The streets are lined with colourful flowers – when the snow has melted – and the sound of cowbells can often be heard in the distance. I adore how peaceful and tranquil it is, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk.
There are several cafés and restaurants in the village where I’d recommend stopping for a coffee or a bite to eat. Try delicious authentic Swiss cuisine as you embrace all Lauterbrunnen has to offer.
Good to know: The village centre provides a great base for exploring the natural wonders nearby. Pop back into the village for a bite to eat and rest before continuing your adventures.
2. Admire Staubbach Falls
Staubbach Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Switzerland, located in the heart of Lauterbrunnen valley – and I can see why it’s so popular!
The waterfall drops from a staggering height of 297 metres, making it one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe.
Admire the magnificent waterfall from various viewpoints, including the base of the falls where the mist creates a refreshing and cooling atmosphere – especially on a sunny day!
Good to know: You can also take the path up behind the falls, where you can get a unique perspective through the water. This path is generally only open during the summer months.
Note that it’s a dirt track which can become slippery, so make sure you’re wearing appropriate shoes. It’s also not particularly accessible for wheelchair users or prams.
3. Go hiking
Lauterbrunnen is a hiker’s paradise, offering a variety of trails to suit all experience levels. From easy leisurely walks to challenging hikes against a backdrop of the stunning Swiss Alps, I think it’s one of the best ways to explore the area.
One of my favourite hikes in Lauterbrunnen is the North Face Trail. This challenging hike takes you up to the top of the Schilthorn, offering epic views of the surrounding mountains.
The trail is steep – an ascent of 290 kilometres – so requires a good level of fitness, but the views are well worth the effort.
For those looking for a more beginner-friendly hike, I’d recommend the Valley of 72 Waterfalls. This trail takes you through the heart of Lauterbrunnen Valley, passing by a whopping 72 stunning waterfalls along the way.
Another popular hike is the Eiger Trail, which takes you on a route of over six kilometres along the base of the iconic Eiger mountain. The hike is moderate in difficulty and takes around two to three hours to complete.
Good to know: Hiking in Lauterbrunnen is a great way to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps from a new perspective. Just remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water and snacks!
4. Get a hit of adrenaline by paragliding
If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie like me, then paragliding is a must-try activity for you in Lauterbrunnen. The scenic beauty of the valley, surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, makes for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Several companies offer paragliding tours, and the tours usually last for around 20 to 30 minutes. During the flight, you can enjoy exclusive panoramic views of the valley, the mountains, and the waterfalls.
The feeling of soaring above the valley is truly exhilarating, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife from above.
The best time to go paragliding in Lauterbrunnen is during the summer months, from May to September. However, it’s important to note that paragliding is a weather-dependent activity.
Good to know: If you suffer from motion sickness then be aware that paragliding can trigger it. I learnt this the hard way!
5. Explore Trümmelbach Falls
Opening times:
- April to November: 09:00 – 17:00
- July and August: 08:30 – 18:00
Prices:
- Adults: CHF 14
- Children: CHF 6
Trümmelbach Falls comprises 10 glacier-fed waterfalls that are hidden deep inside a mountain. The falls are located in a cave-like system, and the roar of the water during the summer months is deafening.
This is actually the meaning behind the falls’ name: derived from “trommelbach” meaning a stream that sounds like a drum.
The walk when exploring Trümmelbach Falls is not too strenuous, but I would advise wearing sturdy shoes as the paths can become slippery.
The waterfalls are illuminated, and you can see the water cascading down the rocks in hues of turquoise and emerald green. Trümmelbach Falls is a unique natural Swiss attraction that should not be missed.
I’d recommend to visiting the falls during the summer months when the water flow is at its highest.
Good to know: Trümmelbach Falls does not permit children under four or dogs, so this might not be the most family-friendly activity.
Top activity to book: Explore Lauterbrunnen and Aareschlucht Gorge on a day tour from Zurich.
6. Visit nearby Mürren
Mürren is a charming Swiss village located just a short cable car ride away from Lauterbrunnen. It sits at an altitude of 1,650 metres and offers gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
One of my favourite attractions in Mürren is the Allmendhubel funicular. This historic railway takes visitors up to the top of Allmendhubel mountain, where they can enjoy striking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
The funicular operates from mid-June to mid-October and mid-December to the beginning of April, however, you can hike to the peak year round.
For a leisurely hike, I’d recommend taking the Panorama Trail, which takes you through the flowered valleys in Mürren.
In addition to hiking and sightseeing, Mürren also offers a range of winter activities, including skiing and snowboarding.
Good to know: The village has its own ski resort, which features over 50 kilometres of slopes and trails. You can also take a guided snowshoe tour or go ice-skating on the village’s outdoor rink.
7. Ascend to Mount Schilthorn and Piz Gloria
While in Lauterbrunnen, don’t miss the opportunity to ascend to the top of the spectacular Mount Schilthorn and be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Swiss landscape.
This iconic mountain peak is one of the most popular attractions in the region, offering showstopping views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and waterfalls.
To reach the summit, you can choose between a hike or taking the Schilthornbahn cable car from the village of Stechelberg.
Personally, I’m a little on the lazy side so I’d choose the latter – the cable car ride takes approximately 30 minutes and offers incomparable views of the valley below.
Once at the top, I’d definitely recommend visiting the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant and observation deck.
The restaurant, which was made famous by the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If it’s good enough for Bond, it’s good enough for me!
In addition to the restaurant, you can also try your hand at a variety of outdoor activities at the summit, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Good to know: The Schilthorn also offers a number of guided tours and activities, including a visit to the mountain’s summit and a guided snowshoe tour.
Top activity to book: Cable car round trip to Schilthorn to visit Piz Gloria & Bond World.
8. Get the train to Wengen
One of the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen is to take a train to the car-free picturesque village of Wengen, which is situated high above the valley at 1,274 metres.
The scenic train ride is an experience in itself, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
To get to Wengen, you can take the Wengernalpbahn railway from Lauterbrunnen. The journey takes as little as 12 minutes and the railway is the world’s longest cogwheel railway, making it a must-see on your Swiss adventure.
Better still, the Wengernalpbahn cog railway is included in the Swiss Travel Pass.
Once in Wengen, you can explore the charming village on foot and take in the breathtaking views of the famous Jungfrau mountain range.
There are also several hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Insider travel tip: When in Wengen, I’d recommend taking the cable car to the top of the Männlichen mountain for idyllic Swiss scenery.
9. Go cross-country skiing in Winter
With miles of trails weaving through the snow-covered landscape, cross-country skiing is a great way to explore the area and fit in some exercise at the same time.
The cross-country skiing trails in Lauterbrunnen are suitable for all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced skiers.
I’m more of a downhill skier than a cross-country skier myself; but according to locals, the trails are well-maintained and offer a unique way to view the immense beauty of the region.
One of the most popular cross-country skiing routes in Lauterbrunnen is the trail that runs from Stechelberg to Lauterbrunnen.
This trail is just under 12 kilometres long with a 119 metre ascent. It takes you through the heart of the valley, past frozen waterfalls and snow-covered forests.
Good to know: If you’re new to cross-country skiing, there are plenty of options for lessons and equipment rental in Lauterbrunnen.
The local ski schools offer group and private lessons, and there are several rental shops where you can rent skis, boots, and poles.
10. Visit the hamlet of Isenfluh
A picturesque hamlet located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Isenfluh is situated at an altitude of 1,081 metres and surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Bernese Alps.
You can make your way to the charming village by car from nearby towns and villages or by a cable car ride from Lauterbrunnen.
I’d recommend visiting Isenfluh if you want to authentically experience the traditional Swiss way of life.
It’s home to a small population who still strongly maintain their heritage and roots. The village is surrounded by lush green meadows, and the air is gorgeously fresh and clean.
One of the highlights of Isenfluh is the brilliant yet imposing landscape that surrounds the village.
You can take a leisurely stroll through the village and marvel at the views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. It’s also a great starting point for many hiking trails that lead to the mountains.
Good to know: Isenfluh is also a fantastic place to try traditional Swiss food. There are several restaurants in the village that serve local dishes such as fondue and raclette. Visitors can also sample local cheeses and meats.
11. Hire bikes and go cycling
Lauterbrunnen is a perfect destination for cycling enthusiasts and lovers of the outdoors. The valley is surrounded by towering mountains and rockscapes, yet the roads are well-maintained.
There are several places in the town where you can hire bikes and start exploring the landscape at your own pace. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to stop regularly to snap some incredible photos of the scenery!
There are several cycling routes in the area, ranging from easy to challenging, or make your own way through the extraordinary landscape.
One of the more popular cycling routes among locals and tourists alike is the Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg route.
This route is relatively easy and takes visitors through the valley, past the famous Staubbach Falls, and up to the quaint village of Stechelberg.
Good to know: Bikes can be rented for a few hours or for a full day. The rental shops offer a variety of bikes for rental, including mountain bikes and electric bikes.
12. Take a day trip to Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch is an iconic saddle between two peaks in the Bernese Alps and is known as the “Top of Europe.”
Believe me when I say that the journey to Jungfraujoch is an experience in itself, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
To reach Jungfraujoch, you can take a cogwheel train from either Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to the top of the mountain.
The train journey from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch via Kleine-Scheidegg takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.
When you make it to the top, you can explore the Ice Palace. It’s a series of tunnels carved into the glacier, featuring ice sculptures and exhibits – it’s truly awe-inspiring!
Alternatively, I’d recommend taking a walk on the Sphinx Observation Terrace, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Good to know: For any adrenaline junkies, you can go skiing, snowboarding, and sledging at Jungfraujoch. You can also take a guided tour of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps.
Top tours to book: Round trip to Jungfraujoch by train from Interlaken.
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Best hotels in Lauterbrunnen
Hotels in Lauterbrunnen are generally small, quaint hotels. For those after luxury options, I’d advise staying in nearby Interlaken and doing a day trip to Lauterbrunnen.
Read my guide to the best hotels in Interlaken.
1. Hotel Silberhorn, Lauterbrunnen
Best for: Stunning Lauterbrunnen valley views
Address: Bir, Zuben 465, 3822 Lauterbrunnen
Hotel Silberhorn is a charming hotel located in the heart of Lauterbrunnen, giving visitors incredible views of the surroundings.
The hotel offers comfortable rooms complete with mountain views. Guests can enjoy a variety of modern amenities and a restaurant serving delicious Swiss cuisine.
2. Hotel Oberland, Lauterbrunnen
Best for: Family-run hotel
Address: Auf der Fuhren 452B, 3822 Lauterbrunnen
Hotel Oberland is a cosy, family-run hotel located in the centre of Lauterbrunnen. The hotel features modern amenities for guests to enjoy and a terrace where you can enjoy the views.
I also love that it offers a charming restaurant serving delicious Swiss and international cuisine.
3. Beausite Park Hotel, Wengen
Best for: Authentically Swiss
Address: Am Wengi 1412c, 3823 Wengen
Beausite Park Hotel is a luxurious hotel located just a short distance from Lauterbrunnen in the picturesque village of Wengen.
The hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the Swiss landscape mountains. You can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a spa, gym, sauna, and a heated indoor pool.
4. Hotel Edelweiss, Wengen
Best for: Jungfrau mountain views
Address: Am Acher, 3823 Wengen
A charming hotel located in the heart of Wengen, Hotel Edelweiss features 25 cosy rooms. All rooms to the south of the hotel feature a balcony with views of the famous Jungfrau mountain.
The hotel also features a sauna for ultimate relaxation (that’s where you’ll find me!), and a restaurant where four-course meals are served each evening.
5. Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel, Interlaken
Best for: A luxury getaway
Address: Höheweg 41, 3800 Interlaken
Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel is a luxurious establishment located in the heart of Interlaken, just a short journey from Lauterbrunnen.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with stunning views of the glorious mountain scenery of the Bernese Oberland. The hotel’s spa is the real selling point here, offering the perfect sanctuary to relax and unwind in between exploring the nearby towns.
The Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel also features several restaurants serving delicious Swiss and international cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients.
I’d recommend sitting on the Victoria Terrace in summer with a glass of champagne and a bite to eat – I have very fond memories of doing just this!
Discover more of the best spa hotels in Switzerland in my guide.
Where to eat in Lauterbrunnen
1. Restaurant Weidstübli, Lauterbrunnen
Best for: Hearty Swiss cuisine
Address: Camping Jungfrau, Weid 406, 3822 Lauterbrunnen
Located in the heart of Lauterbrunnen, Restaurant Weidstübli offers a cosy atmosphere and delicious Swiss cuisine.
The restaurant is known for its delectable fondue, which is made with local cheeses and served with bread and potatoes. Other popular dishes include raclette, schnitzel, and rosti.
2. Airtime Cafe, Lauterbrunnen
Best for: Homemade kombucha
Address: Fuhren 452, 3822 Lauterbrunnen
Airtime Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch in Lauterbrunnen. The cafe serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, as well as coffee and pastries.
I’d recommend trying their homemade kombucha or green smoothie to start your day off right.
The café has a great view of the surrounding mountains and is a good place to relax after a tiring morning of hiking or skiing.
3. Hotel Oberland Restaurant, Lauterbrunnen
Best for: Cosy atmosphere
Address: Auf der Fuhren 452B, 3822 Lauterbrunnen
Hotel Oberland Restaurant is a traditional Swiss restaurant located in the family-run Hotel Oberland.
The restaurant serves visitors a variety of Swiss dishes, including cheese fondue, raclette, and rosti. You’ll find a good selection of Swiss wines and beers to accompany the cosy atmosphere.
4. Restaurant 1903, Wengen
Best for: Swiss charm
Address: Auf der Burg 1401c, 3823 Wengen
Restaurant 1903 is located in the heart of Wengen and offers guests a wonderful dining experience. The restaurant specialises in Swiss and French cuisine and boasts a great selection of wines.
Serving delightful dishes of the day like rosti with salmon, this is a great place to eat near Lauterbrunnen.
5. Hotel Eiger Restaurant, Mürren
Best for: Terrace views
Address: Ägerten 1079C, 3825 Mürren
Hotel Eiger Restaurant is located in the Hotel Eiger in nearby Mürren and offers a variety of sophisticated Swiss and international dishes.
There is a beautiful terrace with an unrivalled view of the surrounding mountains. The restaurant also offers specially selected wines alongside their delectable dishes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lauterbrunnen a big town?
Lauterbrunnen is a small town in the Swiss Alps with a population of around 3,000 people. Despite its small size, it is a popular tourist destination due to its epic natural beauty and famous waterfalls.
Do you need to stay over in Lauterbrunnen?
I personally wouldn’t recommend staying overnight in Lauterbrunnen. There is a much better selection of hotels in the nearby town of Interlaken – especially if you prefer luxury travel.
Lauterbrunnen is served by the Wengernalpbahn Railway, making it easily accessible from nearby towns and villages.
Once you’ve spent the day exploring the phenomenal landscape that surrounds the village, you can meander back to your base location.
Is Lauterbrunnen car-free?
Unlike some nearby towns in the region such as Wengen and Mürren, Lauterbrunnen is not a car-free village. However, despite allowing cars in the village, it is thankfully not flooded with vehicles.
How many waterfalls are there in Lauterbrunnen?
Lauterbrunnen is known for its many stunning waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls, which reaches an altitude of 297 metres.
In total, there are 72 waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, making it a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
Can you go skiing in Lauterbrunnen?
While Lauterbrunnen is not a traditional ski resort, there are plenty of opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the surrounding area.
You can take a short train or bus ride to nearby ski resorts, such as Grindelwald, Wengen or Mürren, where you can enjoy a variety of winter sports.
What are the best day trips from Lauterbrunnen?
Just 30 minutes from Lauterbrunnen by car is the historic quaint town of Spiez. A personal favourite of mine, prepare for unspoilt natural beauty and a rich history on this day trip from Lauterbrunnen.
Gruyères is a fairytale-inspired mediaeval town in the rolling green hills of the Swiss countryside. Here you’ll find a fabulous foodie scene, a truly captivating castle and some fascinating museums. The journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes by car.
A similar distance from Lauterbrunnen is Lucerne – a Swiss hidden gem. Here, you’ll find cobblestoned streets and a rich historical heritage that instils local pride.
Just under two hours’ drive from Lauterbrunnen is Montreux, affectionately known as the ‘Pearl of the Swiss Riviera’. I love this creative town with its magnetic energy, and I think it’s well worth the journey.
Lauterbrunnen itself is also one of the best day trips from Zurich.
Watch my travel vlog to see what I got up to when I visited Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken:
If you’ve got any recommendations or questions around visiting Lauterbrunnen, do let me know in the comments!
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