Nestled between stunning mountains and towering rock faces, the valley of Lauterbrunnen is one of the most attractive in the Swiss Alps. With no less than 72 waterfalls, lush alpine meadows, and plenty of adventurous activities, there is no shortage of exciting things to do in Lauterbrunnen.
Summer visitors can explore the surrounding area, joining excursions from Lauterbrunnen valley to visit the many towns and villages in the Jungfrau region, or head to one of the mountain summits by cable car or train.
For those who like to get active, hiking in Lauterbrunnen is among the best in Switzerland.
Lauterbrunnen in winter offers a variety of snowy fun, with ample opportunities to toboggan, hike and ski.
This guide will give you our top suggestions for what to do in Lauterbrunnen.
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What's in this Article
Where is Lauterbrunnen?
Lauterbrunnen lies within the valley of the same name, forming part of the Jungfrau region in the heart of Switzerland.
The name Lauterbrunnen actually translates as ‘multiple springs’, and this abundance of water explains why the land is so green and fertile.
The dramatic Swiss Alps form a most picturesque backdrop to this pretty area, which is fed by the pure, clean waters of the Weisse Lütschine river.
This is in turn filled by the melting snow that trickles down the sides of the peaks as the weather warms up.
The village itself is small but perfectly formed – a postcard-worthy Swiss scene set in a stunning valley with the mighty mountain peaks acting as the ideal picture frame.
Before you travel to the Jungfrau Region
All visitors to Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region who don’t have a Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Half Fare Card should consider purchasing a Jungfrau Travel Pass or a Berner Oberland Pass.
These two passes offer free and discounted transport on trains, buses, boats, cable cars and funiculars in the region. The Berner Oberland Pass also offers free and discounted admission to a number of other attractions.
Read more about the passes and what they cover on the links below:
Top Lauterbrunnen Things to Do
1. Jungfraujoch Excursion
Connecting the two peaks of Mönch and Jungfrau, the Jungfraujoch mountain pass sits in the Bernese Alps, at 3,464 metres above sea level.
You’ll need a head for heights on this excursion, and if you’re after spectacular alpine views, you won’t be disappointed.
The Jungfraujoch excursion starts at Lauterbrunnen station when you board the train for Wengen. It’s then on to Kleine Scheidegg where you’ll board the Jungfraubahn (a cogwheel train) for the final ascent to Jungfraujoch, known as the Top of Europe.
If the train ride to Jungfraujoch wasn’t spectacular enough, once you reach Europe’s highest railway station, your journey through a magical land of ice and snow begins.
Gaze in awe at the 22-kilometre-long Aletsch Glacier and view the towering Alpine peaks around you.
You can visit the outdoor terrace of the Sphinx Observatory for incredible views, stroll through the Ice Cave, shop at Europe’s highest Lindt chocolate shop, or have some fun at the Snow Park (summer only) where you can try snow tubing, sledding or riding on a zipline.
The train from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch takes one hour and 35 minutes each way and you should allow at least two hours for sightseeing at the summit.
It’s also possible to travel to Jungfraujoch via Grindelwald. When travelling on this route you can choose to travel part of the way on the Eiger Express cable car.
Due to its popularity, it is highly recommended that you pre-book your Jungfraujoch excursion.
Short on time and wondering which mountain excursion to take? Check out our detailed comparison of the Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn excursions.
2. Schilthorn Excursion
If spectacular views and mountainous landscapes appeal, you should not pass up the chance to visit the Schilthorn. The summit, at 2,970 metres, provides an exquisite vista of what is referred to as the Swiss Skyline.
Getting to the summit involves riding a succession of cable cars, or a combination of train and cable cars, and this provides ample opportunity to get a close-up view of cascading waterfalls and steep rock faces.
The Schilthorn excursion is the perfect way to see the entire Jungfrau area in all its glory. You’ll view the mountainous peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, among others (there are more than 200 peaks to see here).
On a clear day you can also see as far as Mont Blanc in France and the Black Forest in Germany!
This spectacular location also boasts the honour of being featured in the blockbuster 1969 James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
Bond fans might be interested to learn that arch-villain Blofeld’s “allergy laboratory” now serves as a revolving restaurant called Piz Gloria!
The restaurant serves a range of delicious meals including the Bond-themed 007 burger and a great-value James Bond Brunch.
There are numerous Bond-themed attractions on the summit, as well as a thrill walk and glass-floored viewing platform at the Birg intermediate station, making a visit to the Schilthorn one of the most exciting Lauterbrunnen attractions.
> Check prices and buy your Schilthorn Piz Gloria tickets.
🇨🇭There are numerous other mountain excursions that can be enjoyed from Lauterbrunnen. A couple of our favourites include Schynige Platte and Grindelwald First.
3. Lauterbrunnen Village
When it comes to Lauterbrunnen sightseeing, don’t miss exploring the village itself during your visit.
Situated among lush Alpine meadows that are abundant in flora when the weather is kind, Lauterbrunnen has a charming main street that’s lined with traditional chalets.
Tucked inside these chalets you’ll find cosy cafes, souvenir shops, hotels and other retailers.
One of the most popular things to do in Lauterbrunnen in summer is to take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool.
With its magnificent setting, backed by spectacular peaks and fertile pastures, the water is heated to a comfortable 24 degrees Celsius.
Those who are visiting Lauterbrunnen with kids will appreciate the children’s playground which is located right behind the church.
Parents can enjoy views of Staubbach Falls whilst their children play on the swings and climbing equipment.
Lauterbrunnen is also home to one of the finest mini golf courses in the Jungfrau region. Housed at the Eyelti sports complex, it’s open to players of all ages during summer afternoons and evenings.
The Sportenlage Eyelti also boasts two outdoor tennis courts in the same stunning setting. They are open between mid May and mid October.
There is also a sweet little museum in the village telling the tale of the Lauterbrunnen valley’s history.
The Tal Museum’s highlights include some intriguing exhibits and local photographs to peruse during your visit, as well as skis used for the Lauberhorn races and an authentic recreation of a hotel room from around 1900.
Whether you’re visiting Lauterbrunnen Switzerland in winter or summer, the authentic Swiss village has a magical air.
4. Staubbach Falls
Staub translates to the word ‘dust’ and this goes some way to explaining the name of this awe-inspiring waterfall.
The spray from Staubbach Falls, Lauterbrunnen, is carried in all directions, and the warm summer breeze pushes the water droplets further, dusting the surrounding area with a fine mist.
One of 72 waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, and described by many as the signature waterfall of the region, Staubbach has impressive credentials.
At an imposing 300 metres, the waterfall is the third-highest in Switzerland and among the highest free-falling waterfalls in all of Europe.
The backdrop is arguably as impressive as the waterfall itself: you can’t fail to notice the sheer, glaciated valley walls.
Visitors can get up close to the falls thanks to a viewing platform that has been built into the rockface. After a steep, 15-minute walk, you can stand behind the falls and feel the spray of the water.
The viewing gallery is open from June to October.
Each night during high season, Staubbach Falls are illuminated, creating a magical effect.
5. Trümmelbach Falls
Another outstanding natural wonder of the ‘Valley of the 72 waterfalls’ (which Lauterbrunnen Valley is often called), Trümmelbach Falls is the largest subterranean waterfall in Europe. These glacial waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Trümmelbach is both powerful and stirring, gushing from the rock face and carrying with it tons of boulders and scree. Its ten glacial waterfalls inside the mountain carry up to 20,000 litres of water per second.
In fact, Trümmelbach is so mighty that it often causes the mountain to tremble, producing a rumble reminiscent of thunder.
Trümmelbach Falls actually comprises 10 smaller rapids that originate in the Jungfrau Glacier. Over time, they have sculpted their own route though the rock, where the water gushes by at an astonishing pace.
With ten viewpoints to stop at en route, Trummelbach Falls are accessible via a network of underground tunnels, walkways, elevators and platforms, allowing you to see the illuminated glacier waterfalls up close.
Trümmelbach Falls are located on the Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg road. They can be reached on foot, by car or by bus #141 from Lauterbrunnen station.
An entry fee applies with a discount offered to holders of the Lauterbrunnen Guest Card.
It’s best to pack a waterproof jacket for your visit, as getting wet is all part of the experience!
Trümmelbach Falls are open from the beginning of April until the beginning of November, daily from 9am to 5pm.
6. Paragliding and skydiving in Lauterbrunnen
For a true birds-eye view of the area, you can take to the skies for a spot of skydiving or paragliding in Lauterbrunnen.
This activity is not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re brave, you can admire the impressive mountainous scenery as you fly high above the alpine landscapes.
Paragliding in Lauterbrunnen involves flying tandem with a skilled pilot at the helm.
You don’t need to have any experience, you simply strap yourself in and enjoy the ride of a lifetime as you soar above Lauterbrunnen and the surrounding mountains.
Alternatively, you can opt for an adrenaline-charged skydive – Lauterbrunnen definitely provides a stunning setting for this type of experience.
Skydiving involves climbing on board a helicopter which will take you high above the Bernese Oberland.
At a height of around 4,000 metres, you will leap (securely strapped to a professional and experienced instructor, of course) from the helicopter and float back down to base in Lauterbrunnen.
> Check prices and book your Lauterbrunnen paragliding experience.
7. Hiking in Lauterbrunnen
One of the most popular activities in Lauterbrunnen is hiking and there are more than 75 different hiking trails covering more than 500 kilometres.
Trails and paths offer varying degrees of difficulty and are perfect for seasoned walkers and beginners alike.
Below you’ll find some of the top, easy hikes in Lauterbrunnen and the surrounding region:
- Alpweg – a 45-minute walk that crosses under the Grütschalp cable car line twice and passes by Gryffenbach Falls before returning to Lauterbrunnen
- Panoramaweg – this 1-hour walk meanders through the village and beside the Weisse Lütschine on the Lütschine Promenade
- Wasserweg – a 2-hour round trip hike from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg past magnificent waterfalls
- Mürren to Allmendhubel Flower Trail (1-hour) – a relatively easy route through the Blumental (flower valley) where you will see more than 150 species of flower
- Mürren to Grütschalp – a pleasant trail meandering through alpine pastures
- Eiger Trail – More experienced hikers will enjoy this iconic trail. It connects the Eiger Glacier railway station to Grindelwald, passing the renowned Eiger Nordwand en-route.
8. Towns and villages to visit near Lauterbrunnen
There are plenty of towns and villages in and around the Lauterbrunnen Valley, so why not do a spot of exploring?
Grindelwald
Now almost more famous for a Harry Potter character bearing its name, the village of Grindelwald is the place to go if you’d like to visit an authentic Swiss alpine resort town.
Grindelwald is a renowned ski resort surrounded by spectacular scenery. It is a popular destination for those seeking a well-earned break and stunning vistas.
The town is bordered by the north face of the Eiger and the Wetterhorn and sits below Mt. First which offers a wide range of fun activities to enjoy. These include a zip line (First Flyer), the Tissot Cliff Walk, and mountain cart and Trotti scooter rides.
The distance from Grindelwald to Lauterbrunnen is around 15 kilometres and the town can be reached by either car or train.
Interlaken
Are you asking yourself which is better: Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen? The answer is both! You can easily visit both of these iconic Swiss towns on your vacation.
It is approximately 11 kilometres from Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken. The traditional Bernese Oberland town sits between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun and features pretty, timber-clad houses and lush parkland.
The River Aare also flows through Interlaken, and during summer the flower-filled town promenade is a glorious sight to behold.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, one of the most popular things to do here is to board a paddle steamer for a trip on the water. This also allows you to visit other villages dotted along the shores of the two lakes.
Interlaken is also the starting point for the many adrenaline sports on offer in the region including paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, white water rafting and bungee jumping.
For fantastic views over Interlaken, Lakes Thun and Brienz and the Bernese Alps, take the funicular up to Harder Kulm.
Half-hourly train services connect Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken.
Mürren
An authentic Swiss village located at the base of Schilthorn mountain, Mürren can be reached by cable car and train from Lauterbrunnen.
A visit to Mürren gives visitors the chance to drink in sublime views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Marvel at majestic mountain peaks as you stare, transfixed, at the glaciers and lush pastures spread out beneath you.
Mürren is a great destination for nature lovers and families and is a popular ski resort during the winter months.
Gimmelwald
If you prefer somewhere off the beaten track, head to Gimmelwald. This charming, traffic-free village sits high above Lauterbrunnen on the edge of a cliff.
There are a few places to stay, including a popular hostel. However, on the whole, this is a sleepy village – perfect for a day’s escape to soak up the alpine air.
Gimmelwald can be reached either by cable car from Stechelberg (bus service available from Lauterbrunnen), or on foot from Mürren should you prefer to travel to Mürren by cable car and train directly from Lauterbrunnen.
Wengen
Another Swiss alpine village which is car-free, Wengen has cute timber chalets and traditional hotels.
The only way to get from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen is by train, with frequent services covering the 12-minute journey.
As this involves trundling along by cogwheel, the trip is as much fun as the village itself – and is an incredibly scenic way to travel.
Winter sports lovers will adore the skiing on offer, and in the summer, the village is a mecca for hikers of all abilities.
One enjoyable hike is that from Wengen down to Lauterbrunnen which takes around one hour and offers stunning views.
Occupying an even higher position than Lauterbrunnen village, the views from Wengen must be seen to be believed.
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Things to Do in Winter in Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen comes alive in winter, with sledding runs, Lauterbrunnen ski tours, and winter hikes for hardy walkers.
Options for skiing in Lauterbrunnen and the surrounding region are plentiful as the valley forms part of the Jungfrau Region ski area.
This provides access to plenty of downhill ski runs (591 kilometres, to be exact) and there are over 130 marked pistes and more than 60 ski lifts.
You can buy a pass that provides access to other nearby Jungfrau ski resorts too – including Mürren, Wengen and Grindelwald.
For the active, Lauterbrunnen hikes along the trails that criss-cross this magnificent landscape can be one of the highlights of a visit to the area, even during the colder months.
For adrenaline junkies, options include skydiving, base jumping, and paragliding in Lauterbrunnen. Where possible, such activities are operated throughout the year.
What to do on a rainy day in Lauterbrunnen? Explore the local museum dedicated to the region’s past (we mentioned it above), or nestle inside a cosy cafe and watch the world go by.
If you’re happy to leave Lauterbrunnen to avoid the inclement weather, here’s a list of rainy day activities for Interlaken and the Jungfrau region.
Suggested Lauterbrunnen Itineraries
Is Lauterbrunnen worth visiting? As you can see from the numerous things to do in Lauterbrunnen that we’ve mentioned above, this Swiss village is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
The biggest dilemma you have when visiting Lauterbrunnen is how to fit everything in!
To help you make the most of your time, we’ve put together the following suggested itineraries for two-, three-, and five-day visits to Lauterbrunnen.
You can also read our more detailed 3 day Jungfrau Region itinerary here.
We recommend you check the weather forecast for the coming days on arrival in Lauterbrunnen as you may need to change the order of the daily activities to suit the weather conditions.
Note: some activities and excursions are seasonal
2 days in Lauterbrunnen
Day 1: Excursion to Jungfraujoch with a visit to Wengen and/or Grindelwald en route
Day 2: Visit Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls, wander around the village, take an excursion to Schilthorn
3 days in Lauterbrunnen
Day 1 & 2: as above
Day 3: Visit Lake Brienz and Giessbach Falls OR visit Lake Thun and Spiez; then make a late afternoon/evening visit to Harder Kulm – why not stay for dinner and watch the sun set over the Bernese Alps?
5 days in Lauterbrunnen
Days 1, 2 & 3: as above
Day 4: Excursion to Schynige Platte, then visit Interlaken
Day 5: Visit Wengen and Mannlichen with an easy hike OR visit Murren and Gimmelwald with an easy hike OR try an adrenaline activity (paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, rafting, etc.)
Purchasing a regional transport pass such as the Jungfrau Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass is a great option when visiting Lauterbrunnen for two days or more. These passes include free travel on public transport in the region.
Some of the mountain excursions mentioned in this itinerary are also included, and substantial discounts are available for other excursions.
How to Get to Lauterbrunnen
Arriving in Lauterbrunnen by train
Passengers arriving in Lauterbrunnen by train should first travel to Interlaken Ost where they can connect with a regional train to Lauterbrunnen.
Services operate every 30 minutes between Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken Ost, and the journey time is 20 minutes.
Travel times from further afield are:
- 1h:37 by train from Bern to Lauterbrunnen via Interlaken
- 2h:21 by train from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen via Interlaken
- 2h:44 by train from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen via Bern and Interlaken
- 3h:49 by train from Geneva to Lauterbrunnen via Bern and Interlaken
Arriving in Lauterbrunnen by car
To reach Lauterbrunnen by car, you’ll need to drive towards Interlaken on the A8. Near Wilderswil, you leave the motorway and travel for 11 kilometres until you reach Lauterbrunnen.
Parking spaces on the street are very limited in Lauterbrunnen so most visitors will need to use the multi-deck undercover parking garage that is located next to the Lauterbrunnen train station.
Parking charges apply – rates range from CHF 3 for up to two hours to a maximum fee of CHF 17 per day. Reductions apply for each additional day.
Best Time to Visit Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year. In this Swiss village you can savour the most spectacular scenery of the Swiss Alps.
Here you can enjoy freshen lungfuls of crisp mountain air as the sound of tinkling cow bells lulls you into an incredibly relaxed state.
Each season offers its own array of Lauterbrunnen things to do. During summer there is low rainfall and more sunshine, and although you cannot ski, hiking is incredibly popular at this time.
Spring often has mild weather and can be considerably quieter than summer, and the glorious meadows are awash with colourful Alpine flowers at this time of year.
In autumn (fall), the region’s trees create a spectacular scene as their leaves turn from green to gold and orange.
As temperatures drop, you may even see the first snow falls of the season or be treated to the spectacle of an Alpine descent as the farmers bring their cows back down from the mountain pastures.
During winter, snow sports dominate the local landscape. Whether you’re into downhill or cross-country skiing, snowboarding or sledding, the only problem will be finding enough time to fit everything in.
Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen accommodation options include a good selection of hotels and apartments, as well as two camping grounds and a hostel.
Refer to our detailed guide to the top Lauterbrunnen hotels and accommodation options for more information.
If you’re planning on camping in Lauterbrunnen, be sure to read our guide to Camping Jungfrau holiday park.
Best Restaurants in Lauterbrunnen
Hotel Oberland restaurant
The restaurant at Hotel Oberland is widely regarded as one of the area’s best eateries. Serving up the classic Swiss fondue alongside a range of international dishes, it’s a must for many visiting the Jungfrau region.
Hotel Silberhorn restaurant
Hotel Silberhorn’s restaurant closely rivals the Oberland’s when it comes to sampling cheese fondue. It’s also a great place to try other Swiss specialities, all in a cosy setting with breathtaking mountain views.
Weidstubli Restaurant at Camping Jungfrau
Whether you’re camping in Lauterbrunnen or not, it’s worth a detour to Camping Jungfrau to dine at the Weidstubli restaurant. We love the affordable prices, generous portions, friendly service and authentic Swiss cooking.
Flavours Cafe
For breakfast, lunch or a snack throughout the day, we recommend Flavours Cafe. Open from 9am until 5pm, the cafe serves a range of food and drinks. There’s also free WiFi and a book exchange.
Note: during June, July and August it is highly recommended that you make Lauterbrunnen dinner reservations in advance.
Spectacular Things to do in Lauterbrunnen – Final Thoughts
For a truly memorable break, whatever the season, a visit to Lauterbrunnen will create lasting memories. It’s a village we adore and return to again and again.
With so many fantastic things to do in Lauterbrunnen, you’ll never be bored. Whether you’re into active adventures or more relaxing pursuits, the many Lauterbrunnen attractions are just waiting to be enjoyed.
Grab a map of Lauterbrunnen and start exploring this truly spectacular village and its surroundings.
🇨🇭Click here to read our full guide to Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region!
Podcast: Visiting the Jungfrau Region
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