The Ultimate Guide to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland: Things to Do, What to Eat, & Where to Stay

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland is one of the most underrated gems in the heart of the Alps.

This picturesque village is known for its breathtaking views, culture-rich attractions, and of course, cheese. It’s a quaint village town that’s packed with plenty of activities for any type of traveler.

If you’re looking for a place to explore that packs both adventure and relaxation, Lauterbrunnen is your go-to destination.

When visiting Lauterbrunnen, you can immerse yourself in its vibrant culture by taking a stroll down the historic streets, visit local shops to pick up some souvenirs, and sample the delicious cheese from local producers.

There’s also plenty of activities to take part in – visit the nearby waterfalls for a hike, or even check out one of the many museums and galleries that are found throughout town.

For an even more exciting experience, schedule a paragliding tour and see Lauterbrunnen from a birds-eye view!

In this post, I’ll give you everything you need to know about planning your trip to Lauterbrunnen – from the best hotels for every budget, to all the must-see attractions.

About Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen is a valley town located in the Swiss Alps, at the foot of the world-famous Eiger mountain.

It encompasses the village of Lauterbrunnen which is set in a valley featuring rocky cliffs and the massive waterfall, Staubbach Falls.

The glacial waters of a second waterfall, Trümmelbach Falls, rushes through mountain crevices past many viewing platforms around the city.

Lauterbrunnen is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine meadows, majestic peaks, and unrivaled glacier lagoons.

The town itself is home to less than 2,500 residents, but sees many more tourists during the summer season. The small village is the ideal destination for those seeking to experience a peaceful alpine retreat and explore all that Switzerland has to offer.

What Kind of Traveler Would Enjoy Visiting Lauterbrunnen?

This charming Swiss town will appeal to anyone looking for a tranquil get away.

Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a great way to spend time in nature will find plenty of activities to keep them busy, from long hikes along the many trails to skiing and snowshoeing on the nearby slopes.

For those seeking some adventure, take a trip up the Schilthorn peak by cable car or go paragliding over the town.

Family travelers will enjoy the many scenic walking trails, bike rides, and the kids-friendly attractions like trampoline parks and mini golf courses.

Lauterbrunnen is also a great choice for solo travelers, because it’s so safe and easy to navigate. There are a variety of hostels in and around the village of Lauterbrunnen, making it super easy to meet other travelers to explore Switzerland with.

I’ve visited Lauterbrunnen on a solo trip to Switzerland, and I had a great time. The city is clean, easy to navigate, and the locals are incredibly friendly. It’s easy to make friends in this small town- so don’t be shy!

Where is Lauterbrunnen?

Lauterbrunnen is located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. It is situated between Interlaken and the famous skiing destination, Grindelwald.

The closest airports that serve the area are Zurich, Geneva and Basel.

Lauterbrunnen is about 80 miles from Zurich (2.5 hours by car), 99 miles from Basel (2 hours by car), 130 miles from Geneva (3 hours by car), and 49 miles from Lucerne (1.5 hours by car).

Lauterbrunnen Weather

The weather is usually quite pleasant during the summer months, with temperatures reaching the high-70s (Fahrenheit) and rarely dropping below freezing in winter.

It does snow occasionally in Lauterbrunnen, but it only receives about 7 feet of snow per year.

Lauterbrunnen is located in a valley, so it can experience frequent rain showers and some fog. Rainy season here is typically from mid-November to mid-April. However, days can be quite clear and sunny during these months.

And when it does rain, it typically only lasts for a few minutes at a time.

The best time to visit Lauterbrunnen is between April and June, when temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and even paragliding. Summer in Lauterbrunnen is stunning as well, but you can expect bigger crowds and warmer temperatures.

Average costs in Lauterbrunnen

Switzerland in general is pretty expensive, and Lauterbrunnen is no different.

Accommodation in this area can range from mid-range hotels to five-star, luxury resorts. Generally speaking, you’ll pay around $100 -$150 for a double room in a mid-range hotel, and up to $400 for a luxury suite.

Meals are also relatively expensive in Lauterbrunnen, with an average dinner costing around $30 – $40.

Breakfast is usually included in the price of accommodation and you can also find cheaper meals at local restaurants and cafes.

Buying groceries in Lauterbrunnen is a great budget-friendly option. There are a variety of supermarkets here that aren’t super expensive and can be great for stocking up on supplies.

Most hotels and hostels here have either private or shared cooking facilities, so you can easily make meals at your hostel instead of eating out every day.

In total, you can expect to spend a daily average of at least $60 – $70 USD while in Lauterbrunnen, outside of accommodation.

What to eat in Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a great destination for foodies, as it’s home to some of the best traditional Swiss cuisine.

Here are a few local dishes you must try while in Lauterbrunnen:

• Rosti: A type of grated potato pancake which is usually served with bacon and an egg on top.
• Cheese Fondue: A classic Swiss dish made from melted cheese, garlic and white wine.
• Bündnerfleisch: Air-dried beef typically served with boiled potatoes, applesauce and a pickle.
• Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: A type of veal ragout that is served with mushrooms, cream, and Herbed rice.
• Birchermüesli: A Swiss breakfast dish made of oats, fresh fruit, nuts and honey.
• Älplermagronen: A Swiss twist on macaroni in cheese, using apple sauce, potatoes, cream and bacon.

In addition to traditional Swiss foods, you can find a variety of international dishes at most restaurants and cafes here as well.

But I highly recommend trying at least one of the local specialties!

How to get to Lauterbrunnen

Now that I’ve hyped up this gorgeous Swiss village and hopefully got you excited to visit, let’s talk about how to get there.

Getting to Lauterbrunnen from Zurich

By Car: As I mentioned earlier, it’s a 2.5 hour drive from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen. You can rent a car from Zurich airport or in the city center. I recommend booking online using DiscoverCars, they’re usually able to get you the best rates on car rentals.

By Train: The fastest way to get from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen is by train. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes with one change at Interlaken Ost station. You can book train tickets online in advance via Omio.

Getting to Lauterbrunnen from Bern

By Car: The drive from Bern to Lauterbrunnen takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Again, I recommend renting a car online via DiscoverCars for the best rates.

By Train: It’s also possible to take the train from Bern to Lauterbrunnen. This journey takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes with one change at Interlaken Ost station. You can book train tickets online in advance via Omio.

Getting to Lauterbrunnen from Lucerne

By car: Lucerne is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Lauterbrunnen by car. You can rent a car online from Lucerne airport or in the city center via DiscoverCars.

By Train: It’s also possible to take the train from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen, which takes around 2 hours with one change at Interlaken Ost station. You can book train tickets online in advance via Omio.

What to do in Lauterbrunnen

• Hiking
• Take a day trip to Interlaken
• Visit Grindelwald
• Explore Trümmelbach Falls
• Take a ride on the Schilthorn cable car
• Paragliding
• Visit Wengen and Murren
• Go skiing or snowshoeing in winter
• Visit Staubbach Falls
• Go tubing at Mürren Beach
• Shop at local stores and markets

There are also tons of other cute villages and towns near Lauterbrunnen to explore.

Interlaken is a few miles away, where you can find lots of shops and restaurants. Here you can go paragliding, white water rafting, or take a ride on the Jungfrau mountain railway.

P.S. I’ve written a complete guide on the 20 Best Things to Do in Interlaken, check that out here!

Grindelwald is another popular destination near Lauterbrunnen. Here you can go skiing and snowboarding in winter, or hike through beautiful trails in summer.

It’s been called the “Christmas village of Switzerland” due to its festive winter decorations.

Wengen and Murren are two more popular towns nearby with beautiful views of the mountains. Here you can take a ride on the Schilthorn cable car, or explore some of the local shops and restaurants.

I could go on forever about what to do in Lauterbrunnen, but hopefully this gives you an idea of the many things there are to explore here.

Here’s a list of my top choices for Lauterbrunnen activities and things to do in town:

17 Things to Do in Lauterbrunnen & Places to Visit

Lauterbrunnen is a stunning destination with plenty of activities and things to see. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting this alpine paradise:

1. Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls

Staubbach Falls (Staubbachfälle) is located in the Lauterbrunnen Valley and is considered to be the highest waterfall in Europe. Standing over 974 feet tall, Staubbach Falls is a sight to behold.

The thundering roar of the falls will make you forget all your worries and just admire the beauty of nature.

The Trummelbach Falls is a series of ten glacier waterfalls that can be found inside one of Switzerland’s largest mountains, Eiger.

It’s an incredible sight to behold! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an impressive place to visit. Visitors to Lauterbrunnen can hike to the falls or take a cable car there.

2. Go hiking

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the beauty of Lauterbrunnen and its surroundings, with trails that lead to nearby villages, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and mountain peaks. The Schilthorn and Mürren trails are two of the most popular hikes in Lauterbrunnen.

3. Mürren neighborhood

The Mürren neighborhood of Lauterbrunnen is located on the edge of a cliff and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The neighborhood is home to several small traditional Swiss chalets, as well as many restaurants, shops, and cafés.

This guided group tour of the Mürren neighborhood will take you to some of the most beautiful spots in town.

4. Wengen neighborhood

The Wengen neighborhood of Lauterbrunnen is nestled in a mountain valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding Alps. Here you can explore traditional Swiss chalets, as well as shops, restaurants, and cafés.

If you’re looking for a good hike, head up to the Wengernalp hiking trail which will take you around some amazing views.

5. Take a ride on the Schilthorn cable car

The Schilthorn cable car is one of Lauterbrunnen’s main attractions.

The cable car departs from Stechelberg and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes. The Schilthorn cable car takes you up to an altitude of 2,970m (9,744ft), where you can enjoy stunning views of the Jungfrau region.

From here, you can take a leisurely walk around the mountain, visit the revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, or just admire the views of the Alps. This entry ticket will take you on the Schilthorn cable car and includes a stop at the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant.

6. Go paragliding

The Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of the best places in Europe for paragliding. With its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, it’s no wonder why people flock here to experience the thrill of paragliding.

There are several companies offering tandem flights, courses, and guided flights for beginners to experienced pilots.

I went paragliding with ParaglidingInterlaken and highly recommend it! The instructors are fun, friendly and very experienced.

This tandem paragliding experience departs from the nearby town of Interlaken and will give you a bird’s eye view of the Alps.

It’s a thrilling and unforgettable experience!

7. Take a boat ride on Lake Brienz

The lake has several marinas and is a popular spot for boating, sailing, kayaking, and swimming.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to really take in the beauty of Lake Brienz. This winter kayaking tour on Lake Brienz comes with an experienced guide, all the kayaking equipment, a drysuit and boots, and even a complete digital photo package of your experience.

You can also rent a paddle boat or take a sightseeing cruise on one of the lake’s larger boats. There are several different companies that can take you on a boat cruise of the lake. You can check out the different tour options here.

8. Go skiing or snowshoeing in winter

Lauterbrunnen is a great place to visit during winter.

The area offers plenty of ski slopes and trails for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. There are also plenty of options for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Lauterbrunnen provides easy access to the nearby towns of Grindelwald and Zermatt, where there are a ton of skiing options.

9. Jungfraujoch

One thing you absolutely must do while in Lauterbrunnen valley is take a trip to the top of Jungfraujoch.

The train journey up the mountain takes about two hours, and you’ll pass through tunnels and rock faces that will leave you breathless.

At the top, you’ll find yourself at an altitude of 3,454m (11,332ft). From here, you can take in the astonishing views of the Alps and visit the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and other attractions.

This roundtrip train ticket takes you from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch, and includes a ride on the Eiger Express Gondola. You’ll get to see the breathtaking view of the Eiger North Face, as well as get free entry to the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and Alpine Sensation.

And in the winter months, check out this Swiss Ski Experience tour, which takes you up to Jungfraujoch and includes three hours of skiing on the glacier.

10. Sphinx Observatory

The Sphinx Observatory is located at the top of Jungfraujoch, and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

It’s also home to the world’s highest astronomical observatory, with an elevation of 3,571m (11,716ft). The observatory has an impressive array of telescopes and instruments that allow astronomers to study the stars, planets, and other cosmic phenomena.

11. Piz Gloria

Piz Gloria is a revolving restaurant located at the top of Schilthorn mountain.

The views from here are breathtaking, and you can also enjoy an array of traditional Swiss dishes in a unique setting. This restaurant is a popular stop on most tours up to Jungfraujoch mountain.

It’s a cool and unique way to see the Swiss Alps while enjoying a nice meal.

12. Alpine Garden at Schynige Platte

The Alpine Garden at Schynige Platte is a must-see for any nature enthusiast. This botanical garden is home to an array of wildflowers, plants and herbs that are native to the Alps region.

Over 750 different species of plants are showcased here!

It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds living in the area. A visit to the Alpine Garden is a nice change of pace from all the mountains and adventure activities in Lauterbrunnen.

13. Kleine Scheidegg Mountain

Kleine Scheidegg is a mountain pass between the towns of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald. It offers stunning views of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau mountains. It’s a must-visit spot for any photographer or nature lover.

When you think of the typical picture of the red trains weaving through the picturesque Swiss mountains, this is it!

You can get great photos from here, or take a leisurely hike around the area. There are also several trails for hiking enthusiasts, ranging from easy to difficult.

This Mount Eiger train pass gives you roundtrip access to a variety of sights, including Kleine Scheidegg and Eigergletscher.

You’ll ride up Kleine Scheidegg pass, stop for a visit in Grindelwald, and enjoy views of the Eiger, Jungfrau and Monch mountain ranges.

You’ll even get close enough to touch the imposing North Face of the Eiger mountain!

14. Talmuseum

Talmuseum Lauterbrunnen is a tiny museum of local history of the valley of Lauterbrunnen in the Bernese Oberland. It’s filled with a collection of artifacts that detail the lives of the people living in the area over the centuries.

There are also displays that show traditional Swiss crafts, such as wood carving and weaving. The museum is located in the center of town, near the Freidhof Lauterbrunnen cemetery.

It’s a great place to learn more about this unique region of Switzerland and its history.

15. Visit Interlaken

Interlaken is just a few miles away from Lauterbrunnen, and it’s the perfect day trip destination.

It’s a resort town in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, and it offers plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing and paragliding. The city is a quaint alpine village, with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.

Interlaken is a great place to get a taste of the Swiss Alps without having to go up in elevation. And you can even take a boat ride on Lake Brienz or Thun for a fun way to experience the lake views.

Interlaken is a great option for budget travelers in the area as well. There are tons of budget activities to do in Interlaken that’ll allow you to have fun without blowing your budget.

P.S. If you want to spend more than just a day in Interlaken, check out my guide to the 23 Best Hotels in Interlaken to extend your stay!

16. Viewing platform at Birg

Birg is a large observation platform and viewing deck located at the top of the Jungfrau mountain.

From here you can get spectacular views of the Swiss Alps and take in the beauty of its natural landscapes. You can also observe nearby glaciers, which is a rare sight! Take your time to soak up all that nature has to offer and enjoy some of the best views in Switzerland from this platform.

If you’ve got a fear of heights, this place will definitely make your heart skip a beat.

But, the views from here make it worth it.

17. Explore the town of Grindelwald

Grindelwald is the largest ski resort in the Bernese Oberland. It’s a great place to explore in both winter and summertime, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

There are plenty of things to do here, including skiing and snowboarding in the winter, hiking in the summer, and visiting several attractions such as the First Cliff Walk.

Grindelwald also has plenty of restaurants and shops where you can pick up souvenirs or have a bite to eat. This town is a great place for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Related read: Grindelwald vs Interlaken: Which to choose?

Where to stay in Lauterbrunnen: Best Hotels & Apartment Stays

Now that we’ve covered what to see in do in Lauterbrunnen and how to get there, let’s talk about where to stay in this Alpine paradise.

Everyone has different budgets and preferences when it comes to accommodations, so I’ve compiled a list of hotels and apartments for every budget.

For those looking for luxury: Hotel Regina is an opulent hotel with breathtaking views of the valley and mountains around Lauterbrunnen. It even has its own spa with a heated pool and sauna! It’s located in the nearby city of Wengen, just 1 mile from Lauterbrunnen.

For those looking for something more budget-friendly: Valley Hostel Lauterbrunnen is the perfect place to stay if you’re on a tight budget but still want quality lodging. The pension is family-run and very friendly, plus it’s centrally located near all the attractions in the area.

For those looking for a unique stay: If you’re looking for something completely different, I recommend staying at Hotel Silberhorn. This ski hotel is located on a mountainside and is located off the main street, only 500 feet from the train station. It provides easy access to the skiing and hiking areas.

Here’s a list of some other great choices of hotels in Lauterbrunnen:

Best hotels in Lauterbrunnen

Hotel Stubbach

Built in the 1890s, this historic hotel was one of the first hotels in Lauterbrunnen.

The family-run Hotel Staubbach offers panoramic views of the Staubbach Falls and Lauterbrunnen Valley. It is located 1,950 feet from the Lauterbrunnen station and offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. Rooms here are simply furnished with private or shared bathrooms.

You can check rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here.

Camping Jungfrau

This holiday park in Lauterbrunnen is an ideal base for excursions to the Jungfrau region.

It is located just 200 meters from the Lauterbrunnen station, and offers a wide range of accommodations including cabins, shared rooms, and family rooms. It’s located right next to the impressive Stubbach waterfall.

You can check rates and availability for the camping by clicking here.

Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen

This quaint Swiss chalet provides mountain views, free parking, and a cozy lounge.

Each room comes with a balcony providing stunning views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant serving traditional Swiss dishes.

In winter, guests can enjoy ski-to-door access from Schilthorn or Mürren. Cable cars are leaving from Grütschalp and Stechelberg and take guests right back to the hotel.

You can check rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here.

Hotel Steinbock

This is a traditional Swiss hotel located just 200 feet from the Lauterbrunnen – Grütschalp ski lift.

The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a continental breakfast, and free private parking. There is also an onsite restaurant and bar serving local specialties. All of the spacious rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV and private bathrooms.

You can check rates and availability for the Hotel Steinbock by clicking here.

Hotel Restaurant Jungfrau

Located at the foot of the Schilthorn, Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, Hotel Restaurant Jungfrau has views of the surrounding Alpine landscape.

The hotel has a balcony that offers panoramic views of the Stubbach waterfall and Lauterbrunnen Valley. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet, as well as a sun terrace, games room, and ski storage facilities.

You can check rates and availability for the hotel by clicking here.

Apartments & Vacation Homes in Lauterbrunnen

Apartment Chalet im Gässli

Apartment Chalet im Gässli features spectacular mountain views and offers accommodation with a terrace and a coffee machine.

The apartment provides free WiFi and private parking on-site. It has 1 bedroom, a fully-equipped kitchen with a refrigerator and oven, plus 1 bathroom with a shower and hairdryer.

Guests can enjoy skiing or cycling in the area, or take advantage of the garden.

This apartment is located about 20 miles from Giessbachfälle and is perfect for those planning on skiing while in Lauterbrunnen. You can check rates and availability for the apartment by clicking here.

Luterbach Apartment

This is a self-catered apartment with grill facilities, a garden, free wifi, and private parking.

The apartment is equipped with a coffee machine and even has a balcony with mountain views. The apartment is fitted with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.

There are lots of opportunities for biking and hiking in the area. You can check rates and availability for the apartment by clicking here.

Apartment Rybibach Retreat

Apartment Rybibach Retreat is located in Lauterbrunnen, a 15-minute walk from Staubbach Falls.

Guests here can benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on-site. The apartment is equipped with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a terrace with mountain views.

The property is 6.9 miles from Wilderswil, in an area where cycling and hiking can be enjoyed. Interlaken Ost Train Station is 8.8 miles from the apartment, and the nearby town of Grindelwald is 11 miles from the property.

You can check rates and availability for the apartment by clicking here.

You can browse over 100 hotels, apartments, and hostels in Lauterbrunnen here 👇

Where to eat in Lauterbrunnen

One of my favorite things about visiting Switzerland was eating all the fondue and chocolate!

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Food is one of the main deciding factors I use when planning a trip somewhere, so naturally, I had to explore all the food options here in Lauterbrunnen.

This small but mighty little valley town has plenty of delicious restaurants to choose from, no matter what you’re in the mood for.

Here are a few of my favorites places to eat in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Best restaurants in Lauterbrunnen

Restaurant Bären

This cozy mountain hotel serves traditional Swiss dishes like rösti, cheese fondue, and raclette. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of local wines to pair with your meal. You can enjoy a meal on the terrace outside while admiring the stunning mountain views. You can check out their menu here.

Restaurant Weidstübli

This modern restaurant serves classic Swiss dishes with an innovative twist. The menu includes both vegetarian and vegan options, as well as hearty dishes like rösti with mushrooms and parsley root soup. This is also a great spot for drinks, offering local beers and wines. This restaurant prides itself on offering hearty dishes at an affordable price without sacrificing quality. You can check out their menu here.

Silberhorn Restaurant & Pizza

Restaurant Silberhorn is a popular spot that serves traditional Swiss dishes like raclette and cheese fondue. They even offer international dishes like pizza and have a wide variety of desserts. The restaurant is located right next to the Silberhorn cable car station and offers spectacular views of the Lauterbrunnen valley. You can check out the menu here.

Restaurant 1903

Restaurant 1903 is located in the Hotel Scönegg in Wengen and is a great choice for dinner after exploring the Jungfraujoch. The restaurant serves a range of international dishes, from burgers and steaks to traditional Swiss specialties. They also have an impressive selection of wines to pair with your meal.

Allmend Bergrestaurant

This cozy mountain restaurant is located in the middle of the Bernese Alps and is a great spot for lunch after skiing or snowboarding. The restaurant offers traditional Swiss dishes like rösti, fondue, and raclette. They also have an extensive drinks menu with beers, wines, and hot chocolate with cream. You can check out their menu here.

Thanks for reading!