10 Best Things to Do in Grindelwald (A Detailed Guide)

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No visit to Switzerland is truly complete without experiencing the Swiss Alps. If you’re seeking adventure amidst these majestic peaks, Grindelwald is a destination you should definitely consider.

Nestled in the spectacular Jungfrau Region, Grindelwald is one of the premier outdoor destinations in Switzerland. With its spectacular alpine vistas, family-oriented activities, and heart-racing adventures, it’s definitely worth a visit. Sites like Grindelwald-First, Jungfraujoch, and Glacier Canyon are among the numerous attractions that make Grindelwald an enjoyable place to explore.

In this article, I’ll provide a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit to Grindelwald, including all the essential information about the attractions and adventures that await you in Grindelwald.

You’ll find useful information, trail routes, tips for taking great photos, brochures, and links to the official websites of Grindelwald’s attractions in this guide. All these elements are aimed at helping you have a fantastic and enjoyable journey to Grindelwald. Let’s get started!

Grindelwald offers a range of typical mountain outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, skiing, ice sledding, and even paragliding. But Grindelwald isn’t just about these common experiences. It also boasts unique attractions and a host of fun activities!

You certainly can’t miss visiting First, Bachalpsee, Mannlichen, and Jungfraujoch. Other interesting spots include Pfingstegg, Heimatmuseum Grindelwald, and Glacier Canyon. If you’re into camping with a twist, Grindelwald has something for you too!

And if you’re staying in Grindelwald, you can easily hop on a train for a quick trip to Lauterbrunnen, often referred to as heaven on earth, or Interlaken for a relaxing day by either Lake Thun or Lake Brienz.

1. Have fun in Grindelwald-First

Grindelwald is a place of fun and adventure, and most of it centers around First, a smaller peak of the Schwarzhorn mountain. Nestled northeast of the town, it’s a popular destination for hikers coming from Schynige Platte in Interlaken. To avoid confusion with other peaks named First in Switzerland, like the one in Kandersteg, it’s often referred to as Grindelwald-First.

Interestingly, Grindelwald-First is far from being just ‘first’ in name. It’s the number one reason to visit Grindelwald, offering not just one, but five thrilling activities! It’s even earned its reputation as a summer hotspot for adventurers and a winter Mecca for freestylers and snowboarders.

If you’re planning to visit Grindelwald-First, you have two options: hiking or riding a cable car. The hike is tough, lasting around 3 hours and covering 7.2 kilometers (4.5 miles) with an elevation gain of 1100 meters (3600 feet). So, it’s often suggested to take the cable car instead.

The cable car is scenic and quicker, reaching First in under 30 minutes, and it allows you to enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery surrounding Grindelwald. The views from the cable car are particularly impressive during clear weather.

You’ll find the cable car station quite easily. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the Grindelwald train station, right along Dorfstrasse, the town’s main street. Just follow where the gondolas are rising into the sky.

Here are more ways you can visit Grindelwald-First:

There are four stations on the Grindelwald-First cable car. You’ll have to disembark at various stations to experience all the activities available at Grindelwald-First:

Station #	Station Name	Activities
1	Grindelwald Valley Station
2	Bort	Trottibike
3	Schreckfeld	Glider, Mountain Cart
4	First	Flieger, Cliff Walk

Let me introduce to you the cable car stations in Grindelwald and the activities you can find from them. You can find more information (prices, schedules, availability) about these activities from the official website of Jungfrau Region.

Bort Station: Trottibike Scooter

Halfway to the top of First, you’ll reach Bort. This is where you can rent Trottibike scooters.

What’s a Trottibike scooter? Well, it’s like a regular scooter but tougher. It has bike tires and a suspension fork. You use it to ride down the mountains. Instead of sitting, you stand on a wide board. There are no seats or pedals. You just balance and push off the ground to go faster.

The Trottibike scooter ride at Grindelwald-First is quite an adventure. It starts at Bort and goes through beautiful meadows and past farmhouses, all the way down to Grindelwald. Along the way, you’ll see amazing views of mountains from Eiger to Wetterhorn.

Here are the views you will meet along your ride with the Trottibike scooter:

You can only rent Grindelwald-First Trottibike Scooters during the summer. Kids are welcome to try, but they must be at least 125 cm (4 feet) tall.

Schreckfeld Station: Glider

Schreckfeld, the next station on the Grindelwald-First gondola lift, offers two more adventures: the First-Glider and Mountain Cart. Let’s start with the glider.

The First-Glider is a special kind of zip line that simulates flying like a bird of prey. But there’s a catch – you’re not the bird, you’re the prey! You’ll be suspended beneath a glider shaped like an eagle.

Even though it’s technically a zip line, it feels like you’re flying! The ride is 800 meters (2600 feet) long and can reach speeds of up to 83 kph (52 mph)! It’s an exhilarating experience, especially when the weather is clear and sunny. The views from the zip line are truly spectacular.

You might feel a bit nervous when you see the route the First-Glider will take and the speed it’ll reach. But don’t worry, there’s nothing to fear! You’ll be securely strapped to the eagle, and your only concern will be how to enjoy the ride.

The First-Glider ride is quick. It starts and ends near the Schreckfeld lift station. You’ll be pulled up a hill on the zip line glider, and once you reach the top, it’s time to soar back down to where you started.

Here’s what you can expect to experience in First-Glider:

As you can see from the video, the actual ride on the First-Glider lasts less than five minutes. But keep in mind, it can only take four people at a time. This means the line can get pretty long, especially during the busy season.

If you’re keen to try the First-Glider and don’t want to spend too much time waiting, it’s a good idea to get there early in the morning. The First-Glider is open in both summer and winter, but the exact dates can change depending on circumstances.

Unfortunately, not everyone can have a go. Children under 10, anyone shorter than 130 cm (4.3 feet), and people over 125kg (275lb) are not allowed to ride the First-Glider.

Schreckfeld Station: Mountain Cart

From Schreckfeld, you can try the First-Mountain Cart for more fun. Like the Trottibike scooters, you use these carts to descend from First, but this route takes you from Schreckfeld to Bort. It’s like a go-kart and a sled rolled into one – sledding on wheels!

The carts are designed for safety, with wide-set wheels and a low center of gravity. They’re also equipped with hydraulic brakes for better control over long distances. However, you’ll need some biking skills or something similar to handle the First-Mountain Cart.

While most of the track slopes down gradually and has safety nets, there are some sharp curves that require good maneuvering skills. So take it easy on the speed! The scenery along the track is stunning, but if you’re going too fast, you won’t be able to take it all in.

The track from Schreckfeld to Bort is 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) long. Here’s the experience awaiting you in First-Mountain Cart:

The First-Mountain Cart ride can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how fast you go and the speed of the person in front of you. From what I’ve researched, it seems like the First-Mountain Cart is a favorite among those who’ve tried it!

It’s worth a go, but remember to be safe and control your speed to avoid accidents. There’s no age limit for the First-Mountain Cart, but kids need to be at least 135cm (4 feet 4 inches) tall to ride. Just keep in mind, the First-Mountain Cart is only open in the summer.

First Station: Cliff Walk

At the top of Grindelwald-First, you’ll find the First-Cliff Walk by Tissot. It’s perched 2168 meters (7112 feet) up on the mountain, offering a panoramic view of not just Grindelwald, but the entire eastern Bernese Alps.

The walkway is made of steel pathways that hang off the summit’s rocks and cliffs. People who’ve visited the First-Cliff Walk have been wowed by both the scenery and the engineering feats on display.

Strolling along the First-Cliff Walk can be a bit daunting, especially if heights aren’t your thing. The path is made of steel mesh, so you can see right through to what’s below. But at the same time, it’s truly breathtaking up there, particularly at the end of the First-Cliff Walk on a clear, sunny day.

Picture yourself standing there, taking in the lush green meadows of summer and the ever-frozen peaks of the Jungfrau Massif. It can get busy though, so if you’re hoping to snap some solo photos at the end of the walkway, be prepared to wait your turn.

The good news is that access to the First-Cliff Walk is free. Plus, it’s open in both summer and winter.

First Station: Flieger (Zip Line)

While the First-Cliff Walk is a great attraction, the real thrill is at First-Flieger. This is a classic zip line that lets you zoom from First to Schreckfeld at a top speed of 84 kph (52.2 mph). You’ll be gliding 50 meters above beautiful alpine meadows and charming farmhouses.

The First-Flieger is 800 meters long, and like the Glider, it’s a thrilling ride that only lasts a few minutes. But be prepared – the line for the First-Flieger can get really long during peak season. Some people have waited more than 2 hours just to try it!

Here’s a sample experience:

You can try the First-Flieger in both summer and winter. However, be aware that the opening dates might vary based on current conditions. There are also weight requirements for the zip line, as it operates based on the participant’s body weight. It’s only suitable for people who weigh between 35 kgs (77 lbs) and 125 kgs (275 lbs).

Tips & Suggestions

If you’re thinking about visiting Grindelwald-First, here are some key points to remember:

1. Check the view in Grindelwald-First. Grindelwald-First is best enjoyed on clear days when you can fully appreciate the spectacular mountain views. If it’s foggy, the activities might not be as enjoyable. You can use live webcams to check the weather at Grindelwald-First. If the visibility isn’t good, consider postponing your trip to the top for a few hours or maybe until the next day.
2. Consider getting the Grindelwald-First Adventure Package. It offers unlimited gondola rides and the freedom to pick and choose your activities and how often you want to experience them. The package is good from spring through autumn of the current year. At the time of writing, the cost of the Grindelwald-First Adventure Package for adults ranges from around 50+ CHF to 120+ CHF. The price can change depending on how many activities are included and if you have other travel passes. Here’s a table that shows the different rates for adults, discounted rates, and children:

Grindelwald-First Adventure Package Inclusion	Adult Rate (CHF)	Adult Rate (CHF) with Half-Fare Card, General Pass, Swiss Travel Pass	Children Rate (CHF)
1 activity	74+	50+	43+
2 activities	89+	67+	57+
3 activities	106+	85+	71+
4 activities	120+	99+	84+

Here’s another tip: Try catching the golden hour from Grindelwald-First.

Mountains are some of the best places in the world to watch the sunrise. It’s a time when the peaks glow golden and sometimes, a sea of clouds appears! It’s an experience that’s out of this world, filling you with awe and wonder.

Wondering if you can catch the sunrise at Grindelwald-First without hiking (since cable car rides start at 8:30 a.m.)? Well, you can! You just need to spend the night at Berggasthaus First, a hostel located at First. That way, you’ll be there in time for the sunrise.

2. Visit the Picturesque Bachalpsee

When you reach the summit of Grindelwald-First, you’re not far from Bachalpsee, a lake known as Grindelwald’s “blue jewel”. Bachalpsee is one of the most scenic spots in Grindelwald. In fact, it’s the lake you see in Gmail’s mountain theme background since 2013.

Situated at a height of 2,265 meters (7,431 feet) and nestled north of the Jungfrau massif, Bachalpsee offers perfect photo opportunities of Eiger and nearby peaks. On a clear, calm day, you can see the mountain tops reflected in the lake — a sight that makes Bachalpsee well worth a visit.

The hike to Bachalpsee from First is easy and takes about an hour. The trail is paved and winds through lush meadows where you might see cows grazing (if you’re hiking in summer). It’s a beautiful and leisurely hike, but mostly uphill.

Many people bring packed lunches to enjoy by the lake while taking in the view. But remember to check the weather before you go. If it’s rainy or cloudy, you might want to reschedule. And it’s not recommended to hike to Bachalpsee in winter as the lake usually freezes over and is covered with snow.

Anyhow, here are the views you can expect to see in Bachalpsee:

3. Have fun in Pfingstegg, Grindelwald

If you’re planning a family trip to Grindelwald and have kids, Pfingstegg is a great spot to consider. It’s like a smaller, more relaxed version of Grindelwald-First with gentler rides that are perfect for kids.

You can get to Pfingstegg by taking a gondola ride from the Pfingstegg valley station, located in the eastern part of Grindelwald town. The ride only takes about 5 minutes. During the non-winter months, you’ll be treated to beautiful alpine meadows and the sound of cowbells from nearby grazing cows.

Pfingstegg also offers a fantastic view of the valley entrance to Grindelwald. Besides the scenery, there’s a playground and two rides, Fly Line and Toboggan Run. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:

Pfingstegg Fly Line

Fly Line is a ride that lets you experience “flying” through the forest, similar to a zip line. But instead of going in a straight line like a typical zip line, you’ll spiral around trees. It’s not so much a thrill ride as it is a calm and relaxing “flight”. The average speed on the Fly Line is 10 kph (6.2 mph).

If heights aren’t your thing, you might find the Fly Line less intimidating than the First-Glider and First-Flieger. The Fly Line starts right under the cable car station at Pfingstegg. You’ll be seated on a sturdy cloth that’s attached to a stainless steel pipe system, which is then connected to the surrounding trees.

At the end of the ride, a lift takes you back to the start. The entire pipe system covers a distance of 350 meters (1148 feet), taking you through scenic spots in the alpine forest. A single ride on the Fly Line usually lasts 2 to 3 minutes.

The Fly Line is open from mid-spring to mid-autumn, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with closing time extended to 5:30 p.m. during the summer months. You can check pfingstegg.ch to see the experience packages and see if there are announcements and updates.

Pfingstegg Toboggan Run

Looking for a more thrilling experience in Pfingstegg? You should consider the Toboggan Run. It’s a popular attraction in Grindelwald and a big reason why people come to visit. It’s a great activity for both children and adults, offering a rush of excitement as you navigate the twists and turns of the 700+ meter (2300+ feet) downhill track.

You can reach speeds up to 40 kph (25 mph) on the Pfingstegg Toboggan Run. While it’s tempting to go fast, don’t forget to slow down and take in the beautiful alpine scenery along the way. Just remember, stopping midway is not allowed.

It’s important to remember that you can’t bring personal items like mobile phones, cameras, and bags while tobogganing. If you wish to document your journey down the Pfingstegg Toboggan Run, consider using an action camera secured to your body, much like one enthusiast did.

The Pfingstegg Toboggan Run operates from mid-spring to mid-autumn, opening at 10:30 a.m. and closing at 5:00 p.m. However, during the summer, it stays open until 5:30 p.m. Children aged 8 to 15 can enjoy the ride on their own, while those aged 4 to 7 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The Toboggan Run offers various packages for multiple runs and groups. For more details on these packages and the exact opening dates, visit their website at pfingstegg.ch.

4. Explore Glacier Canyon Grindelwald

One of the many reasons why alpine regions are worth visiting is the abundance of activities and natural wonders they offer. In Grindelwald, the amazing experiences aren’t just limited to the peaks and lakes. Between the towering rocks of the mountains, you’ll find a world of excitement and beauty in the Glacier Canyon Grindelwald.

Spanning a kilometer (0.62-mile) in length, the Glacier Canyon Grindelwald is a gorge in Grindelwald through which flows the Lutschine River, a tributary of the Schwarze Lutschine. This canyon is a testament to nature’s artistry, having been formed over 250 million years. It was once covered by glacial ice, which receded as global temperatures increased.

To find Glacier Canyon Grindelwald, head east from the Grindelwald Terminal and follow the road that runs parallel to the Schwarze Lutschine.

Today, the Glacier Canyon is home to stunning natural formations such as glacial polish, blocks of green and pink marbles, iron excretions, and more rock galleries. Nestled between 300-meter tall rock walls, you’ll find a raw display of nature and learn about the gorge’s geology and glaciers. A complete exploration of the Glacier Canyon Grindelwald, including its crystal museum, can take between one to two hours.

The canyon is equipped with tunnels and wooden pathways that guide you through the various wonders within the gorge. As you journey through, you’ll hear the powerful roar of the Lutschine river and feel the cool wind — a testament to the natural forces that shaped the canyon. Remember to bring a jacket or windbreaker for your visit!

The Glacier Canyon Grindelwald typically opens from May to mid-November, depending on the season. It opens in May once the snow has melted and any loose rocks on the canyon walls have been cleared by the authorities

The canyon is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Saturday to Thursday. On Fridays, it opens at the same time but closes at 10:00 p.m. to accommodate the light show in the spider web of the gorge. For more information, please see the official website of Glacier Canyon.

Beyond just sightseeing, Glacier Canyon offers two more exciting activities for visitors. You can try out the Spider’s Web and experience the thrill of the Canyon Swing.

Spider’s Web

One of the standout features of Glacier Canyon is the Spider Web. This is a walkable net, spanning 170 sq. meters (1830 sq. feet), that’s strung up above the river and fastened to the towering canyon walls. It’s also where a light show takes place.

The Spider’s Web is situated in the middle of the canyon gap, offering a superior view of the gorge compared to what you can see from the walkways. It’s an exhilarating experience as you balance on the net and take in the unique scenery.

Canyon Swing

For thrill-seekers, the Canyon Swing at Glacier Canyon Grindelwald is a must-try. This exhilarating activity is sure to get your adrenaline pumping and help you overcome any fears. It’s an experience you’ll be eager to share with friends and family.

The Canyon Swing involves jumping from a 90-meter-high platform towards the Lütschine river, then swinging at speeds of up to 120 kph (75 mph) between the towering rock walls. After the initial free fall, you’ll feel a sensation similar to bungee jumping, followed by a series of swings that mimic the feeling of flight.

The Canyon Swing even had a feature on the Amazing Race TV show. Those who have tried it describe the free fall as an unreal experience and rate it as the top adventure in Grindelwald.

The Canyon Swing is open to individuals aged 14 and above, with a weight limit of 130 kilograms (286 pounds). It typically operates from April to November. For more information or to book tickets, visit the official website at outdoor.com. You can conveniently reserve a slot for the Canyon Swing using the link provided below.

5. Discover new things in Heimatmuseum Grindelwald

While most activities in Grindelwald are outdoor and can be affected by stormy weather, don’t worry if you find yourself caught in the rain. You won’t waste your time as you can visit the Heimatmuseum Grindelwald. This museum offers fascinating insights into the history of Grindelwald and Mount Eiger.

The Heimatmuseum Grindelwald offers a glimpse into the lives of the locals and the alpinists who have shaped the breathtaking landscape of Grindelwald.

Here, you can find agricultural and alpine farming artifacts that tell the story of how the local community thrived in this region. It also reveals the adventures of early alpinists who dared to conquer Eiger. Exhibits of mountain guides and rescue tools provide insights into the challenges faced by these early mountaineers and their passion for achievement.

The museum enhances your understanding of the past with its “Eiger Myth” listening room, where you can listen to five radio plays, each lasting between 4 and 5 minutes.

• 1858: The story of the first ascent of Eiger
• 1935: The story about Sedlmayr and Mehringer
• 1936: The story about Toni Kurz
• 1938: The story of the first ascent of Eiger North Face (Most interesting)
• 1957: the story about Claudio Corti and Stefano Longhi

Please be aware that the museum does not have information boards in English. However, you can borrow an audio guide that provides information in English. A visit to the Heimatmuseum Grindelwald typically lasts between one to two hours. The museum is open for limited hours from Tuesday to Friday and Sunday, specifically from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The months during which the museum is open are announced on the museum’s website, so it’s recommended to check for updates.

6. Be awe-inspired by the view in Mannlichen

For an awe-inspiring 360-degree view of the Jungfrau Region, make your way to Mannlichen in Grindelwald.

Situated at the heart of this spectacular region, Mannlichen may only stand at 2343 meters (7687 feet) high, but it provides a unique perspective of the entire Jungfrau region. From here, you can take in sights of Grindelwald, Interlaken, and all the quaint villages nestled in the Lauterbrunnen valley. Plus, you’ll have a clear view of the region’s three standout peaks: Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau.

Reaching Mannlichen from Grindelwald is a breeze. A single 20-minute cable car ride is all it takes.

This 6-kilometer journey, which opened in 1978 and was once the longest passenger-carrying gondola in the world, offers stunning views along the way. As soon as you arrive at the Mannlichen cable car station, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking vistas.

But to get to the best viewpoint, you’ll need to hike a bit further north to the summit. At the peak, you’ll find the Mannlichen “Royal Walk,” a crown-like platform that’s perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Once you’ve taken in the sights at Mannlichen, you might not be ready to head back to Grindelwald just yet. That’s because Mannlichen is the starting point for the renowned panoramic trail to Kleine Scheidegg, which serves as the entryway to Jungfraujoch.

The trail from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg is a gentle hike, spanning 4.4 kilometers (2.7 miles) with mild inclines and declines. Typically, visitors complete the trek in about an hour and a half. Along the trail, you’ll encounter picturesque alpine meadows and get an up-close view of Eiger’s north face.

7. Have Excusion to Jungfraujoch from Grindelwald

Jungfraujoch, also known as the ‘Top of Europe,’ is a geographical saddle, which is the lowest area between two peaks. In this case, it connects the towering mountains of Jungfrau and Monch.

At an elevation of 3,454 meters (11,332 ft), it boasts the highest railway in all of Europe. It’s home to the largest glacier in the Alps, the Aletsch Glacier, one of the world’s highest observatories, and Switzerland’s second-highest viewing platform, the Sphinx Observatory, at 3,572 meters (11,719 ft).

Given these remarkable features and the significant cost of visiting, Jungfraujoch is often considered a once-in-a-lifetime destination in Switzerland. If you’re traveling from afar, like me, it’s a must-visit when in Switzerland, especially if you’re already in Grindelwald.

Below are the different ways you can visit Jungfraujoch:

Aletsch Glacier

The Aletsch Glacier is undoubtedly a major draw for visitors to Jungfraujoch. As the largest glacier in the Alps, it stretches 23 kilometers from the peak of the Jungfrau massif to Bettmeralp in the canton of Valais.

This awe-inspiring sight is at risk due to global warming, making it all the more important to witness it in person while it’s still there. You can view the Aletsch Glacier from the Sphinx Observatory. While you can’t enter the observatory, you can use the binoculars on the viewing deck for a closer look at the glacier.

Keep in mind that Jungfraujoch is at a high altitude where oxygen levels are lower, so be sure to consider your health before visiting. Also, temperatures at Jungfraujoch can be quite cold, so don’t forget to bring a jacket.

Ice Palace

At Jungfraujoch, you have the unique opportunity to not only see the surface of the glacier but also to venture inside it! The Ice Palace is a must-visit if you’re curious about what it’s like inside a glacier.

The interior is just as breathtaking as the surface. It’s an extraordinary experience that might feel almost surreal. We’ve all been in caves and underground tunnels, but how about tunnels made entirely of natural ice? It’s certainly an experience worth adding to your bucket list.

There are two ways you can get to Jungfraujoch from Grindelwald:

1. From Grindelwald, take the Eiger Express tri-cable gondola and get off at the Eiger Glacier station. Once there, board the train that’s headed to Jungfraujoch.
2. From Grindelwald, you’ll need to board the train going to Kleine Scheidegg. At Kleine Scheidegg, transfer to the Jungfraujoch Railway train that goes straight to Jungfraujoch.

Useful tip: The Eiger Express tri-cable gondola offers a faster and less expensive way to get to Jungfraujoch. However, the Jungfrau Railway is often favored for its picturesque journey and traditional appeal.

8. Camp in Grindelwald at Camping Holdrio

For those who truly love the great outdoors, camping can be a far more rewarding experience than staying in a hotel. If you’re someone who enjoys sleeping under a starlit sky and waking up in a tent, you might want to consider Camping Holdrio in Grindelwald.

Not too far from the heart of Grindelwald, Camping Holdrio is a campsite located on a hill, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and town. It’s arguably the best camping spot you’ll find in Grindelwald. Take a look at the view:

Impressive views from Camping Holdrio, right? But wait until sunset – the scenery becomes even more stunning.

The sight of twinkling stars overhead and the lights of Grindelwald town below creates a truly romantic setting. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day filled with adventure, don’t you think?

If you’re a photographer, you might find this spot ideal for practicing your timelapse and night photography skills. And if you’re here with a loved one, why not enjoy a glass of wine and engage in deep conversation against this stunning backdrop? With such a view, it’s bound to be a moment you’ll treasure forever.

Camping Holdrio is a pet-friendly campsite that welcomes dogs. However, it’s important to clean up after your pet! The site provides dog poop bags free of charge – just ask at the reception.

With a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Google Maps, the campsite is praised for its stunning views and excellent facilities, which include tables, benches, a cooking range, fridge, pot wash, and clean and well-maintained toilets and showers. If you need to charge your phone or use lights, you can request an electricity supply.

While the site may seem a bit remote, it’s easily accessible by bus. Plus, upon check-in, you’ll receive complimentary bus tickets to the town!

If you have questions about campervans, tents, and other things to bring, you can email or call Camping Holdrio at: info@camping-grindelwald.ch | Tel +41 (0)79 614 02 88 | camping-grindelwald.ch. Camping Holdrio is usually open during summer, but it’s best to send them an email for clarifications/reservations. Here are the rates:

9. Visit the Heaven on Earth Place in Switzerland

While the Jungfrau Region is filled with awe-inspiring sights and places that could be described as paradise on earth, Lauterbrunnen is likely to be the one that leaves the deepest impression. The village of Lauterbrunnen, along with its surrounding valley, truly epitomizes the beauty of the Alps.

Lauterbrunnen has long been a source of inspiration for many artists, writers, and creative minds. It’s said that J.R.R. Tolkien’s depiction of Rivendell, the elven home in his novels ‘The Lord of The Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit,’ was inspired by Lauterbrunnen.

If you’re looking to be inspired like Tolkien, Lauterbrunnen is a must-visit. It’s just two train rides away from Grindelwald, making it an easy trip! If you’re already in Mannlichen or Klein Scheidegg, you’re just one cable car or train ride away from Wengen, one of the villages in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

The valley is home to two hamlets, four villages, 71 waterfalls, and countless beautiful hiking trails for you to explore. While it may not offer as many adventurous activities as Grindelwald, it promises unforgettable views. If you’re seeking peace, introspection, or healing, Lauterbrunnen Valley is the perfect place. With many peaceful spots like Gimmelwald, it’s a great place for self-discovery.

Learn more about Lauterbrunnen from my articles:

1. Reasons to Visit Lauterbrunnen
2. 3-Day Lauterbrunnen Itinerary
3. How to Get to Lauterbrunnen (Make Your Own Itinerary)

10. Visit the Lakes of Interlaken

When you examine the map of the Jungfrau region, you’ll notice two big lakes near Grindelwald which are also on both sides of Interlaken: Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. These lakes, like the rest of the Jungfrau region, are incredibly beautiful and offer a wealth of activities.

Switzerland’s Lake Thun is like a scene from a storybook. It houses intriguing attractions like the Saint Beatus Caves and Oberhofen Castle. You can also see Mount Niesen, Bern’s pyramid mountain, from Lake Thun. Lake Brienz, however, is a visual treat with alpine villages around it and offers nostalgic train journeys. The stunning 14-step Giessbach waterfalls can be visited from its shores.

If you’re staying in Grindelwald, considering a visit to these lakes would undoubtedly enhance any trip to the Jungfrau Region or Grindelwald.

You may also be interested:

• Reasons to Visit Interlaken
• 7 Days in Interlaken
• Different ways to spend 3 days in Interlaken
• How long to spend in Interlaken?

How do I get to Grindelwald, Switzerland?

Grindelwald is accessible via public transportation and private vehicles. But if you’re coming from Switzerland’s main cities such as Geneva, Bern, Basel, and Zurich using public transit, you might need to make 2 to 3 transfers on the trains or bus. This could result in a journey of 2 to 4 hours before you arrive in Grindelwald.

Here are the major Switzerland cities (with airports) and the distance and travel time between them and Grindelwald.

Private Car

City	Road Distance to Grindelwald	Travel Time
Zurich	137 km	2h 5m
Bern	75 km	1h 9m
Basel	170 km	2h 49m
Geneva	234 km	2h 51m

Public Transportation

City	Transit (no. or rides)	Travel Time
Zurich	3 train rides	2h 46m
Bern	2 train rides	1h 43m
Basel	2 train rides	2h 50m
Geneva	3 train rides	3h 49m

Sources (Google Maps), click to see routes:

• Zurich to Grindelwald
• Bern to Grindelwald
• Basel to Grindelwald
• Geneva to Grindelwald

When to Visit Grindelwald

If you’re planning a trip to Grindelwald, Switzerland, timing is everything!

Weather-wise, the best time to visit is between late May and early October. During this time, you can expect pleasant weather with average temperatures around 20°C (64°F), perfect for outdoor activities, and most adventurous tourist attractions are open. However, keep in mind that this is also the high season, so it might be a bit crowded, and accommodation prices might be higher.

On the other hand, if you’re a fan of winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, you might prefer the colder months from December to February. Just remember that some attractions may be closed due to weather conditions.

Now, if you’re looking to avoid the crowd, consider visiting during the low season in April. Not only will you find fewer tourists, but accommodation prices are also generally lower. You could find a room for a night for as low as $159.00 compared to around $240.00 during the high season.

As for nature photography, Grindelwald is stunning year-round. The summer months (June – August) offer lush green landscapes and clear skies, while the autumn months (September – October) present a beautiful array of colors as the leaves change.

How Many Days in Grindelwald

The length of your stay can make all the difference! Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

The Highlights: If you’re short on time but still want to experience the best of Grindelwald, a 2 to 3-day trip (a weekend trip) should do the trick. This gives you enough time to visit the main attractions like Jungfraujoch, Mannlichen, and Grindelwald First.

The Full Experience: Want to soak in all that Grindelwald has to offer? Consider staying for 5 to 7 days. This gives you plenty of time to explore the main attractions, take on some adventurous activities at Grindelwald First, hike up to the stunning Bachalpsee, and even explore Glacier Canyon.

Your Personal Itinerary: Prefer to go at your own pace? Here’s a rough guide on how much time you might spend at each attraction:

• Jungfraujoch: Known as the ‘Top of Europe’, plan for about half a day to full day (for a leisurely visit) here. That includes traveling from the village to the top of the mountains.
• Mannlichen: This viewing point is worth about half a day. That includes the cable car ride, some hiking, and a train back to the village.
• Grindelwald First: Set aside at least 2 to 3 hours, or even a full day if you’re up for some outdoor activities.
• Bachalpsee: Including the hike (from First) and time at the lake, this could take about 2 to 3 hours.
• Glacier Canyon: Exploring this natural wonder typically takes about 1-2 hours, half a day if you are going to do Canyon Swing.

Remember, these are just averages — take your time and enjoy the beauty of Grindelwald at your own pace!

Do you need a place to stay? You can find the best hotel deals in Grindelwald here.

Where to next after Grindelwald

Looking for more Swiss adventures? I’ve got plenty up my sleeve. Take a peek at my Switzerland Itinerary for a quick overview. It’s got a bunch of the spots listed below and the Jungfrau region is just the tip of the iceberg. Switzerland has more captivating villages that are worth a visit. Check out my top three picks:

• Kandersteg. A lovely village closest to Oeschinensee, one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland
• Gruyeres. A preserved medieval village in the Prealps. Come to taste authentic Gruyeres Cheese and unlimited chocolates!
• Zermatt. An alpine village/ski resort/hiking destination where you can see the most famous mountain, the Matterhorn. Check out the best views of Matterhorn from Zermatt now!

You might want to consider exploring the cities close to the Swiss Alps. They’re conveniently located near some of the top tourist spots in the Alps. These cities could be a great alternative base to the major cities in Switzerland.

• Sion. The capital of the canton of Valais with a hilltop church and hilltop chapel.
• Thun. A picturesque city where you can find the oldest panorama painting and a few castles.
• Montreux. A beautiful city beside Lake Geneva. Come here to see Chillon Castle and Lavaux vineyard.
• Brig. The city gateway to Italy. Come here to see Stockalper Palace and the scenic Simplon Pass.
• Lucerne. It is a charming city with remarkable landmarks (Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument) and near Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus. Learn more: How Many Days in Lucerne?

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