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15 Best Things to Do in Grindelwald (Switzerland)

Picture a dream mountain resort and it would look a lot like Grindelwald in the Bernese Alps. This village is under the infamous North Face of Eiger, a monumental wall of rock that inspires and intimidates in equal measure. The North Face was first conquered in 1938 and attracts hundreds of climbers every year, which look like tiny flecks as they battle up the rock.

Grindelwald’s Alpine pastures are achingly idyllic and cable-cars make it easy to hit the trails for scenic mountain lookouts, the Grindelwald Glacier and lakes. When decked with snow, this landscape has been a filming location for Star Wars and James Bond movies, and serves up dozens of kilometres of ski trails and sledging runs in winter.

Catch the gondola up from Grindelwald to this minor summit on Schwarzhorn, where a mountain of adventure is in store.

Something that will appeal to everyone with a head for heights is the First Cliff Walk.

This is a metallic walkway, hugging the side of the cliff and then projecting 45 metres over a sheer drop.

The views of the sharp rocky slopes, peaks, Alpine pastures, distant lakes and a waterfall are simply staggering.

The First Flyer, for thrill-seekers, is a zip-line 800 metres in length and reaching speeds of 84 km/h.

First is the trailhead for a host of hikes, a few of which we’ll come to shortly.

And for high-altitude fun, families can hire mountain carts or “trottibikes”, a hybrid of scooters and bicycles.

2. Eiger Trail

Seasoned hikers and climbers may already know about the Eiger trail, a six kilometre route that brings you right to the foot of the Eiger’s north face.

The route been used by climbers since the 1930s to embark on gruelling ascents of that concave slab of rock 1,600 metres high.

The way to do it is to catch the Jungfrau railway to Eigergletscher and within minutes you’ll be dwarfed by the north face.

Take a pair of binoculars on a clear day to see climbers picking their way up this wall, and look north where Grosse Scheidegg and the Wetterhord command the landscape.

The six-kilometre walk to Alpiglen Station shouldn’t take more than a couple of hours, and where it gets tricky there are ropes fastened to the rock beside the path.

3. Jungfraujoch

The journey to Jungfraujoch is the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll only encounter in the Alps.

From Grindelwald Grund you can catch the train from Kleine Scheidegg and change there for the highest railway in the world.

Before long you’ll be at a the Jungfraujoch saddle, 3,454 metres up.

One of many incredible things about this location is that the railway was completed all the way back in 1912. At the penultimate stop there are windows into the interior of the Aletsch Glacier.

After that you’ll be in “The Top of Europe”, marvelling at the glacier and the 4,000 metre peaks around it like Mönch and Jungfrau.

Go even higher to the Sphinx Observatory for 360° views as far as the Vosges in France, or enter the frozen wonderland of the glacier at the Ice Palace.

4. Bachalpsee

One of the inspiring in walking distance from the gondola stop at First is a stunning Alpine lake, about an hour away.

Bachalpsee is at an altitude of 2,265 metres, and its reflective waters, grassy banks and mountain backdrop make up a quintessentially Alpine scene.

When the skies are clear the mighty Schreckhorn, Wetterhorn and Finsteraarhorn are reflected perfectly in the water for postcard-quality photos.

The walk from First is a surprisingly light one, sound-tracked by cowbells and in pastures scattered with wildflowers in mid-summer.

5. Männlichen

From the Grund station on the valley floor, the Grindelwald–Männlichen gondola cableway will lift you up 1,300 metres to this mountain peak.

There are higher mountains in the vicinity, but the thrill of the trip lies in the journey itself: The cableway is the third longest of its kind in the world and on the 30-minute climb you’ll have lots of time to sit back and bask in the sublime scenery.

In late-June the valley is awash with wildflowers, and once you arrive at the summit you can amble around to the various lookouts around the peak.

After that you could continue on to the town of Wengen on the other side of the peak.

Or you might hike back towards Grindelwald and get back on the gondola halfway down.

6. Grosse Scheidegg

There are a couple of ways of reaching this lofty walking paradise: You could take the gondola to First again and hike round, but there’s also a bus service to this spot.

However you get there Grosse Scheidegg is a fabulous place to go for walks in mountain pasture dotted with cattle.

And if you’re patient you might be accompanied by herds of chamois, marmots or golden eagles swooping overhead.

As ever the views are sensational, incorporating waterfalls, glaciers and an unforgettable perspective of the legendary north face of the Eiger.

7. Pfingstegg

In summer, if you only have time to cram in a quick cable car ride, a trip to Pfingstegg overlooking the valley is a good option.

You’ll be there in a matter of minutes from Grindelwald and after the views the big attraction is the tin toboggan ride.

This is open all summer and is 736 metres long with a vertical drop of almost 60 metres.

One of the neat things about it is a mechanism that lifts you back to the top to save an onerous walk.

Pack a picnic and find a remote patch of grass or sit down to a hearty meal at the restaurant.

Or head off in search of adventure on a variety of trails delivering you to the Upper and Lower Grindelwald Glacier at the Gletscherschlucht (Glacier Ravine) and Bäregg, each achievable in 90 minutes.

8. Gletscherschlucht

You can catch the bus to the mouth of this ravine and be there in ten minutes from Grindelwald’s station.

The ravine was cut by the Lower Grindelwald, which has retreated significantly up the slope since the Little Ice Age in the middle ages.

Walkways have been fastened to the walls of the ravine, and in summer you can even make use of the “SpiderWeb”, a large net suspended over the roaring meltwater.

The walkways carry you a kilometre in the ravine and you’ll pass beneath climbers and canyoners clambering up or rappelling down the craggy rock-faces.

9. Mountain Biking

Grindelwald’s railways and cable-cars are adapted for mountain bikes, so summer opens up many kilometres of trails in the region.

One designated route is the descent from First back to Grindelwald.

Even if you’re taking it easy, in around two hours you’ll have dropped more than a kilometre.

Thankfully bike hire centres in Grindelwald test their brakes rigorously! There’s no reason to rush down the trail as it weaves along flowery pasture, over tracks and asphalt road.

We don’t need to tell you that the panoramas are like something out of a movie.

10. Downhill Skiing

When winter comes, Grindelwald’s infrastructure conveys you to the pistes in a matter of minutes.

There are three ski areas nearby, at Kleine Scheidegg-Männlichen, Bodmiarena and Grindelwald-First.

For the latter you can use the gondola to get onto more than 40 kilometres of pistes in that epic setting.

Down in the valley, the Bodmiarena is the starting point for families and first-time skiers, and has the resort’s main ski school and two public lifts for skiing, snow-tubing and tobogganing.

And just a bit further afield, Kleine Scheidegg-Männlichen is for hardened skiers, where 110 kilometres of runs will be at your disposal, at a ski area where the world-famous Lauberhorn World Cup Tour begins.

11. Cross-Country Skiing

To tour the flat trails over Grindelwald you can rent all the necessary gear from a sport shop in the village and then pick up a pass from the tourist office.

After that, hop on a bus or train for Grindelwald’s own cross-country course.

As you ski you’ll have the powerful sight of Wetterhorn in front, and Eiger on your shoulder, as well as a ring of snow-capped peaks.

The main seven kilometre trail is very forgiving for beginners and cross-country skiing poses none of the risks of downhill skiing so it’s much easier to pick up.

12. Sledging

One winter activity with almost no learning curve is sledging, and there’s nowhere better for it than Grindelwald.

That’s because you’re in striking distance of the longest toboggan run in Europe.

This meanders from the peak at Faulhorn all the way down to Grindelwald.

You can rent helmets and goggles from the resort before picking up your sled at one of the stations, either at Bussalp midway down and connected to Grindelwald by bus or at the very top after a hike.

The run is known as Big Pintenfritz and drops more than 1,600 metres.

The surface is well groomed, and the descent is never so fast that you can’t relish those views of Jungfrau and Eiger.

13. Grindelwald Museum

If you need a moment to recover, you might spend some time getting to know the history of this Alpine village at the museum.

Tourism began early here, in the 18th century, so Grindelwald was the first village in the Bernese Alps where local mountain guides would show visitors the sights.

This heritage is covered in the galleries, as well as a fire that devastated Grindelwald at the end of the 19th century.

You can find out how the cable-car and railway network was put built a century ago, browse vintage mountaineering gear and farming tools, and check out the traditional handicrafts of the Bernese Alps.

14. Marmot Trail

The last of our trails at First wends its way to Schilt in Wegen, where you can catch the cable-car back to Grindelwald.

The walk takes a couple of hours and has been devised for little legs.

From June to October, if you’re quiet and careful you stand a great chance of spotting a cute marmot.

You may need a pair of binoculars or just some patience.

There are benches at the entrance to their burrows, and they’ll make an appearance after a couple of minutes of silence.

The rest of the time you can hear their warning calls echoing down the hillside, and information boards will inform you about their behaviour and biology.

After climbing or speeding down mountains you may be nursing some aching muscles, so a visit to a spa is just what you need.

If you’re staying at a hotel there will surely be a spa attached, but for those holidaying at rented accommodation, most hotel spas allow non-residents to use the facilities.

Sometimes you’ll need to call ahead, but there are 10 in Grindelwald welcoming guests and non-guests alike.

Aspen Alpin Lifestyle Hotel is one such spa, and for CHF 40 you’ll have access to the Finnish sauna, herbal bath, steam bath, ice fountain and an outdoor whirlpool heated to 36°C, right on the slopes.

15 Best Things to Do in Grindelwald (Switzerland):

• Eiger Trail
• Jungfraujoch
• Grosse Scheidegg
• Gletscherschlucht
• Mountain Biking
• Downhill Skiing
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Grindelwald Museum
• Marmot Trail

The Ultimate List of Things to Do in Grindelwald

The scenic town of Grindelwald, Switzerland, is located in the Swiss Bernese Alps and is bordered by the north face of the Eiger and Wetterhorn mountain peaks.

There are enough things to do in Grindelwald to spend a week there. But, if you only have a day or two, you won’t be disappointed either.

An all-season destination, Grindelwald buzzes with ski enthusiasts in the winter and attracts hikers and adrenaline junkies in the summer.

It’s also the perfect place to relax at a spa, soak in the stunning views, and enjoy wonderful food and wine.

With so many things to do in Grindelwald Switzerland, the aim of this guide is to make it as easy as possible for you to decide how to spend your time.

Read on and start planning your perfect trip to this charming, welcoming region.

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What's in this Article

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:

Jungfrau Travel Pass

Berner Oberland Pass

Must-See Places to Visit in Grindelwald

Known locally as ‘the vibrant Eiger village’, Grindelwald offers spectacular views and plenty of activities to keep visitors happy. 

If you are heading to the Jungfrau region and are wondering about things to do, Grindelwald in Switzerland is only about half-an-hour from Interlaken by train and offers lots of options.

Jungfraujoch Top of Europe

Grindelwald has many delights to discover, and the Jungfraujoch excursion is one of the best. It’s also one of the top reasons that tourists visit Grindelwald. 

This incredible journey to the summit of the Jungfraujoch at 3,454 metres is one of Switzerland’s most popular day trips.

Known as Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe , the mountain peak can be reached by train from Grindelwald in around 90 minutes, and, since December 2020, by cable car to Eiger Glacier station with a connecting train to Jungfraujoch in around 45 minutes.

There are plenty of activities and things to see at the summit including an ice palace, the Sphinx Observatory which offers awe-inspiring views of the Aletsch Glacier, shops and restaurants, and snow activities in summer.

The Jungfraujoch can be visited 365 days of the year. 

Due to the popularity of this excursion, it is recommended that you buy your Jungfraujoch tickets in advance (select Grindelwald as your departure point in the pricing area).

First Mountain Grindelwald

First is a relatively small summit situated on the slopes of Schwarzhorn and easily accessible from Grindelwald. Visiting Mt. First is one of the top Grindelwald things to do for many visitors.

Mt. First can be reached from Grindelwald by cableway. The valley cable car station for the journey from Grindelwald to First is located at the end of Grindelwald village and is a 15-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride from the main train station.

The Firstbahn Grindelwald cableway has three stages. Leg one of the Grindelwald – First journey involves a short ride from Grindelwald to Bort, the next leg takes you from Bort to Shreckfeld and the final section takes you from Schreckfeld to First. 

The entire journey from Grindelwald to First takes 25 minutes. Cable cars operate continuously from 9am to 4.30pm (slightly longer hours in high season). 

A ticket between Grindelwald and First (or vice versa) allows you to disembark at any of the intermediate stations and resume your journey at a later time. 

There is a short closure period for maintenance from 6 November to 16 December (inclusive) 2023.

> Click here to buy your Grindelwald to First ticket online.

Once at the summit of Mt. First, there are plenty of things to see and do.

🇨🇭 Read our detailed guide to visiting Grindelwald First here .

First Cliff Walk

One of the most popular attractions on Mt. First is the First Cliff Walk.

Visitors will be wowed by the First Cliff Walk Grindelwald (sometimes called Skywalk Grindelwald), a walkway which seems to cling precariously to the side of the mountain. 

The Cliff Walk Grindelwald-First features a 45-metre-long observation platform with fantastic views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau as well as the Grindelwald valley. 

There is no admission fee for the First Cliff Walk.

First View Platform

Opened in 2023, the First View vantage platform offers nine different perspectives on the surrounding mountain peaks.

Located close to the First summit station, and at 2,194 metres above sea level, the panoramic views from the platform will take your breath away.

The First View platform is open all year round and is free to visit.

First Mountain Restaurant

If the fresh mountain air is making you hungry, the mountain restaurant at First is well worth a visit. 

Serving up a delicious range of food and drinks – from Swiss cuisine to international dishes – there’s sure to be something on the menu to appeal.

With both indoor and outdoor dining areas, the First Mountain Restaurant is the perfect place to fuel up before partaking in the many activities available on First.

Hike to Bachalpsee

A wonderful way to really immerse yourself in the beauty of the area is to hike from First to Bachalpsee.  Grindelwald has plenty of picturesque hiking trails and this is one of the most popular.

The trail starts just above the cable car station at First and is mostly flat.

Passing through alpine meadows and alongside bubbling streams, the path offers spectacular views before arriving at Lake Bachalp . 

If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of Mt. Schreckhorn reflected in the glacial waters of the lake.

The round-trip hike from First to Bachalpsee is just under six kilometres in length and you should allow around 50 minutes to walk each way.

Remember to take your own food and drink as there is nowhere to buy supplies on the trail to Bachalpsee.

There are a number of other activities available on Mt. First which we cover in detail below.  Some of these activities can be used as a mode of transport between First and the intermediate stations should you not wish to travel all the way back to Grindelwald by cable car.

Some of the activities below only operate from early June until late October, except where otherwise stated, depending on weather conditions ) .

Note that there may be long wait times during high season (June/July/August/September). It is recommended that you arrive early and allow plenty of time to avoid disappointment.

First Flyer Grindelwald

Starts: First  / Ends: Schreckfeld

If the Cliff Walk doesn’t provide quite enough of a thrill for you, the First Flyer Grindelwald, which propels adrenaline junkies along an 800-metre zipline at speeds of around 80 kilometres per hour, might be for you. 

Starting just near the First summit station, the zipline finishes at Schreckfeld where you can rejoin the cable car for your descent to Grindelwald, or hire a mountain cart for the descent to Bort.

The First Grindelwald zipline – known locally as the First Flieger – is an experience that can be shared by up to four people at once.

Strapped into a safety harness, you hurtle through the fresh mountain air along the steel cable that stretches for 800 metres. 

Speeds may reach almost 85 kilometres per hour, and in some parts riders will be suspended directly over the lush alpine meadows that dot the landscape.

A ride on the First Flyer provides any thrill-seeker with the perfect combination of adrenaline, adventure and breathtaking beauty.

Rides on the First Flyer start at CHF 31 per adult and weight restrictions apply. The First Flyer operates all year round (weather dependent).

First Glider

Starts: Schreckfeld  /  Ends: Schreckfeld

Another airborne activity to try is the First Glider. 

Strapped to a purpose built eagle which is attached to a pulley, you’ll soar from First to Schreckfeld at 80 kilometres per hour whilst taking in the spectacular views.

This thrilling ride through the Swiss skies can be taken by a group of up to four individuals, who are strapped into safety harnesses beneath the belly of the gigantic ‘bird of prey’. 

A great feature of the First Glider ride is that you get to travel at two different speeds. After take-off, you will be pulled backwards at just over 70 kilometres per hour to First. 

Then, you’ll zip back down to Schreckfeld at 83 kilometres per hour.

The First Glider operates all year round (weather dependent).

Height and weight restrictions apply and rides cost from CHF 31 per adult. 

Mountain Carts

Starts: Schreckfeld  /  Ends: Bort

Another option for fun Grindelwald things to do is the mountain cart, a cross between a go-kart and a sled. This is a fun way to descend from Schreckfeld to Bort.  

Fitted with hydraulic brakes, the mountain carts are well-suited to the terrain of the three-kilometre gravel and asphalt track.

Helmets are compulsory (and provided with mountain cart rental) and the carts are suitable for everyone over 135 centimetres.

The First Mountain Carts operate from early May to early November.

Rides cost CHF 21 per adult.

Trotti Bikes

Starts: Bort  /  Ends: Grindelwald

Grindelwald has some of the most spectacular alpine scenery just waiting to be discovered and one of the best ways to enjoy it is on two wheels!

If your mountain cart ride has your heart pumping, next up is a trotti bike from Bort to Grindelwald.

Trotti Bikes have a scooter-like appearance with thicker tires, suspension and brakes and allow you to cruise on down to Grindelwald – through lush alpine pastures – at your own pace, be that fast or slow. 

The sealed track features a number of sweeping corners and finishes with a short section on the main road into Grindelwald.

Helmets (compulsory) are included with Trottibike rental.

The First Trotti Bikes operate from the beginning of April to early November (weather permitting).

Rides cost CHF 21 per adult. Height restrictions apply.

Bort Adventure Playground

An adventure park for kids (and the young at heart) is located beside the Bort cable car station. 

The Bort Alpine Playground is a 700-metre park with a mountain stream, and there’s plenty of fun to be had via the ropes and nets. 

Youngsters will have a great time climbing and balancing (and doing their best not to fall off)!

If you need a break from all the adventure activities on Mt. First, a stop at Bort is highly recommended.

The kids can burn off some energy in the playground while the adults enjoy a snack or drink at the restaurant.

Grindelwald attractions are many and varied, and Pfingstegg, another mountain summit, proves to be popular in summer.

Pfinstegg, at 1,391 metres above sea level, can be reached by a nostalgic cable car and is home to another of the many fun Grindelwald summer activities – a summer toboggan track.

The Pfingstegg rodelbahn (Grindelwald toboggan run) is open during the warmer months – early May to late October, allowing thrill-seekers of all ages to speed along a 736-metre track at up to 45 kilometres per hour. 

Another fun thing to do at Pfingstegg is ride on the Pfingstegg fly-line . 

Attached by a secure harness to a 350 metre-long stainless steel track, you can enjoy a thrilling two-and-a-half-minute ride whilst you reach speeds of up to 12 kilometres per hour.

The Fly-Line is open from mid-May until mid-October.

There are also superb hiking trails leading to the nearby glacier, and kids will love having the chance to pet the cows grazing in the adjoining fields.

Pfingstegg, Grindelwald has a great viewing platform, and when the weather in Grindelwald, Switzerland is clear enough, you can enjoy wonderful views of the valley and Alps beyond. 

There’s also a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal or drink with a view.

The Pfingstegg cable car ride costs CHF 28 return (discounted with the Jungfrau Travel Pass or free with the Berner Oberland Pass).  Click here to check prices for the toboggan run and zipline.

The Pfingstegg valley cable car station can be reached by Bus #122 from the Grindelwald bus terminal (opposite the train station).

Grindelwald Glacier Canyon Walk

A short hike from the centre of town, the Glacier Gorge Grindelwald (Gletscherschlucht in German) sits between the Mettenberg and Eiger. 

Grindelwald Glacier has changed a great deal over many years. Once upon a time, it met the floor of the valley and people would ski on the lower portion of the glacier canyon. 

Visitors today can’t do this, but the walkway along Glacier Canyon Grindelwald allows you to witness how the glacier has retreated over time.

Consisting of a one-kilometre walkway through naturally-formed tunnels and rock galleries, the canyon walk allows you to discover how the gorge has been formed and view the imposing rock walls for yourself. 

Those brave enough can walk across the ‘spider web’ net which spans the Lutschine River seven metres below.

Allow one to two hours to complete the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon Walk, which is open daily from late May to late October. 

A visit to the canyon walk is an ideal way to spend a rainy day in Grindelwald.

The entrance to Grindelwald Glacier Canyon can be reached by Bus #122 from the Grindelwald bus terminal (opposite the train station).

> Buy your tickets to Grindelwald Glacier Canyon .

Grindelwald Canyon Swing

If you’re looking for some real adventure when you visit Switzerland, Grindelwald Canyon Swing is the answer.

Grindelwald has a fast-flowing glacial river at the base of the deep canyon, and the ledge above acts as the launch pad from which nervous participants leap.

If you’re seeking a heart-stopping adventure, this could be it! 

There’s a very calm instructor by your side to talk you through the process, but not much can prepare you for the 50-metre free fall between the narrow, rocky canyon walls – especially when you’re travelling at 120 kilometres per hour! 

Located at the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon (see above), the Grindelwald Canyon Swing operates from mid-April until mid-November. 

> Check Grindelwald Canyon Swing prices and details.

Männlichen 

Grindelwald is surrounded by numerous mountains, and Männlichen is another worth visiting.

At 2,343 metres, the mountain can be accessed by the Grindelwald-Mannlichen gondola railway . 

Grindelwald – Männlichen – Grindelwald services operate from 9am to 5pm daily from late May to late October. The cable cars resume around 9 December, 2023 for the winter season which lasts until April (snow dependent).

A popular thing to do at Mannlichen, is the easy 30-minute walk along the Royal Walk to the summit platform where magnificent views await. 

One of the most beautiful things to see in Grindelwald, the panorama of Kleine Scheidegg, Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau, and the Lauterbrunnen Valley is laid out before you. It’s a vista you’ll never forget.

There are numerous other hiking trails on Mannlichen – we particularly love the Panorama Trail between Männlichen and Kleine Scheidegg (see below for more info). 

You can savour the magnificent views whilst you enjoy a meal or drink from the excellent mountain restaurant which has both indoor and outdoor seating. 

A highlight for the younger members of the family is the adventure playground, home to an 8.5 metre high wooden cow which features a slide and a viewing platform.

More Grindelwald Activities

There’s certainly no shortage of Grindelwald attractions!

If you want to spend a little time away from the hiking trails and downhill runs, there are many other activities that you can enjoy including the Grindelwald Museum and an excellent mini golf course which you’ll find in the heart of the main street.

It’s also possible to rent e-mountain bikes to explore the village and nearby trails. > Click here to check prices.

Hiking in Grindelwald

If you enjoy hiking, Grindelwald will suit you perfectly. There are numerous paths and trails suitable for any level of hiker, from beginners to more advanced walkers.   

We’ve already mentioned the hike to Bachalpsee above but there are plenty of other hikes to choose from, as you can see on this Jungfrau Region hiking map.

The Panoramaweg, between Männlichen and Kleine Scheidegg, is a 4.4 kilometre one-way walk that will provide you with wonderful views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. 

The trail, which descends around 160 metres, can be covered in just over an hour.  It is open from the end of May until mid-October.

We also love the Jungfrau Eiger Walk (pictured above), a fairly easy one-hour walk from Eiger Glacier station to Kleine Scheidegg station.

More seasoned hikers might prefer to take the route from Männlichen down to Wengen. This 11 kilometre one-way hike allows you to take a scenic stroll and view the big three – Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau – as you descend almost 1,000 metres.

Allow around three hours to complete the trail which is open from July to October.

If you’d prefer to be accompanied on your hike by a knowledgeable local guide, why not book a 4-hour guided hike in Grindelwald ?

Indoor Rope Park 

The largest in Europe, and suitable to visit in any weather, the park is situated at Sportzentrum Grindelwald and allows you to try your hand at climbing the Eiger trail, albeit in a safer and more controlled way. 

There are five circuits to choose from, and instructors are on hand to ‘show you the ropes!’

> Find out more, and buy your tickets to Grindelwald Rope Park, here.

Paragliding

With one of the most spectacular landscapes in Switzerland, it’s not surprising that paragliding in Grindelwald is popular. 

If you’d like to take to the skies and enjoy the scenery from above, book an instructor to try out paragliding. Grindelwald’s beauty won’t disappoint.

Book your paragliding flight over Grindelwald below.

Spa and Wellness Centres

Would you rather spend a day relaxing and being pampered? If so, opt for a spa treatment and boost your wellness.

Grindelwald has numerous hotels that feature their own wellness centres and include steam baths, saunas and solariums. 

We love the infinity pool at Hotel Spinne’s wellness centre.  The views of the Eiger North Face from the pool are breathtaking.

Another great wellness experience can be enjoyed at Eiger Selfness Hotel – find out more here.

Restaurants, cafes and bars

The village has a rather laid-back vibe, so you won’t find lots of late-night partying. 

However, there are plenty of bars and restaurants in Grindelwald to stave off hunger and thirst after a busy day.

Skiing in Grindelwald

We can’t talk about all the things to do in Grindelwald Switzerland without mentioning winter sports. The skiing in Grindelwald is impressive and there are just over 150 kilometres of slopes to suit all levels of skier.

At bodmiArena in the centre of the town, you’ll find the largest beginner’s ski area in the Jungfrau Region, covering 6,000 square metres. It also offers sled runs and snow tube rides. 

If you want to ski, Grindelwald is a great choice, so grab your ski-pass – Grindelwald is waiting to welcome you!

Other Grindelwald winter activities

Other fun things to do in Grindelwald in winter include curling, night sledding, snowshoeing and hiking. 

The First Flyer zipline and First Cliff Walk (mentioned above) are also open in winter.

If you’re feeling really adventurous, why not hike to Faulhorn (allow around two hours) and then take a 15-kilometre sled ride back to Grindelwald on Big Pintenfritz, Europe’s longest sled track?

With the weather in Grindelwald being so icy and snowy during winter, you could turn your hand to ice climbing. 

Adventurers will enjoy the thrill of pulling themselves up the sheer wall of ice, using specialist equipment to test their skill.

Exploring the Jungfrau Region

How about a change of scenery? If you’d like to explore further afield, you could always check out the sights and sounds of Interlaken .

Grindelwald is around 30 minutes by train from Interlaken. If you have your own vehicle, it’s about a 30 minute drive. 

Other notable nearby places to visit include Lauterbrunnen, Murren, Wengen and Brienz.  Lake Oeschinen and Bern can also both be visited on a day trip from Grindelwald.

How to Spend One Day in Grindelwald

If you only have limited time in the area, you may be wondering ‘how do I spend one day in Grindelwald’?

There is no easy answer, as it depends on your interests. As you won’t have time for longer hikes or to take to the slopes, it’s best to focus on one area. 

You could, for example, take a trip to the summit of First, one of the area’s smaller peaks. As the trip takes 25 minutes each way it leaves you some time to spend once you’re there.

You might want to stroll on the famous First Walk Grindelwald, for example, before dining at the mountain restaurant. You could also take a trip on the First Flyer or First Glider.

Another option involves staying closer to town. You could go on the Glacier Canyon Walk before taking a 50 metre leap of faith on the Grindelwald Canyon Swing.

The rest of the day could be spent at a spa, or exploring the area on foot or sampling the town’s range of cafes and bars. 

If the higher peaks are calling, an excursion to Jungfraujoch is a must. 

You’ll want to allow at least four hours for your round trip excursion but this still leaves you a few hours to wander the streets of Grindelwald or enjoy a quick visit to First, Pfingstegg or Männlichen.

You’ll definitely have no trouble finding things to do on your one day in Grindelwald. In fact, you’ll be wishing you had so much longer to explore this gorgeous alpine town.

Where is Grindelwald

Grindelwald is located in the Jungfrau Region of central Switzerland, just 30 minutes from Interlaken.

It is 65 kilometres from Bern, 87 kilometres from Lucerne, and 137 kilometres from Zurich.

The nearest airport to Grindelwald for international travellers is Zurich.  You can check the journey times from Zurich Airport by train below or book a private transfer .

How to Get to Grindelwald

All visitors arriving in Grindelwald by train will need to travel via Interlaken.

Rail services from Interlaken to Grindelwald operate every 30 minutes. The journey from Interlaken to Grindelwald by train takes 33 minutes.

Trains from Lauterbrunnen to Grindelwald travel via Zweilütschinen, again services are half-hourly.

The train Zurich to Grindelwald takes two hours and forty minutes.

You’ll find the journey times from other popular destinations below:

• Bern to Grindelwald – 1h:04 
• Lucerne to Grindelwald – 2h:32
• Geneva to Grindelwald – 3h:26

Grindelwald can be easily reached by car from anywhere in Switzerland.

Nearby Interlaken is connected to all major cities via the motorway network and Grindelwald is a further 30 minute drive.

> Read our tips for driving in Switzerland .

> Get more in-depth info on how to get from Zurich to Grindelwald .

Parking in Grindelwald

If you are arriving in Grindelwald by car and your accommodation does not have parking space available, there is a large multi-level car park underneath the Eiger Centre (where you’ll find the Coop Supermarket) in the centre of Grindelwald. Fees apply.

Where to Stay in Grindelwald

When it comes to a variety of accommodation, Grindelwald has all styles covered. 

Don’t miss our detailed article on the best hotels in Grindelwald . There are also plenty of self-catering options, as well as hostels and camping, too.

If you are interested in camping in Grindelwald, there are three camping grounds to choose from. Perhaps you’re looking for hostels in Grindelwald – that option is covered, too.

If you’d prefer to stay in one of the many apartments in Grindelwald, the choice is wide ranging. 

There are lots of self-catering apartments listed on Booking.com and Airbnb Grindelwald. You’ll find fantastic options for couples, families and larger groups. 

There are even some typical Swiss chalets in Grindelwald that can be rented !

> Browse Grindelwald apartments on Booking.com .

Weather in Grindelwald

No matter what the weather, Grindelwald has plenty to offer. 

If you’re after warmer temperatures, June, July and August are your best bet, when the temperature sits around 25°C. 

January is usually very cold, as you would expect during the Grindelwald Switzerland winter period. Temperatures sit around the 1°C mark, so expect plenty of snow! 

Grindelwald lies at the base of the Jungfrau ski region, so, fortunately, you can make the most of the snowy conditions. 

For more detailed info about weather in the Bernese Oberland, read our guide to the best time to visit Switzerland season by season.

Things to Do in Grindelwald – FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Grindelwald, Switzerland things to do and general information.

Is Grindelwald worth visiting?

Whether you want to explore the glacier canyon in Grindelwald, take a hike along the trails, ride a zipline or enjoy discovering the enticing range of restaurants and bars in the resort after a day’s skiing, Grindelwald is well worth adding to your Swiss itinerary.

This particularly applies if you’re planning to go to Interlaken, for example, as Grindelwald can be reached from there by train in just half an hour.

When a trip to Grindelwald can be as relaxing or active as you’d like to make it, there are really no reasons not to visit this gorgeous Swiss town. 

How many days do you need in Grindelwald?

Anyone who’s visited Grindelwald would probably agree that you need to stay for two to three days at least if possible. That said, a day in Grindelwald is of course much better than no time at all! It really does depend on what you want to do.

To get a feel for the hiking trails or ski routes, a longer stay is best.

However, if you’d love to take the short canyon walk in the morning before being pampered at a Swiss spa in the afternoon, for instance, a day trip will give you at least a taster. 

A longer week’s holiday, meanwhile, would allow you to make the most of all there is to see and do in this beautiful area, allowing you time to pursue active pursuits while giving you time and space to fully unwind.

Are cars allowed in Grindelwald?

You can drive to Grindelwald if you have a rental car for the duration of your holiday. Once you’re in the area, though, car trips are limited, as the surrounding mountain area is mostly motor vehicle free.

Don’t despair, though – there are plenty of cable cars and trains to help you get around the region.

Can I park in Grindelwald?

If you need to find car parking in Grindelwald, it’s worth knowing that there normally are paid spaces available at the Eiger Centre in the middle of town.

This has a multi-storey car park beneath, and also houses the local Coop supermarket.

How do I get from Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch?

There are two options open to those wishing to travel from Grindelwald to the peak of Jungfraujoch.

Visitors can take a 90-minute train trip, or since late 2020 have been able to catch a cable car to Eiger Glacier station before boarding a train there bound for Jungfraujoch.

Read more about the transport options and discover how to buy the best Jungfraujoch tickets  in our detailed guide.

Final Thoughts about Things to Do in Grindelwald

As you can see, there are many things to do and places to visit in Grindelwald.

You won’t be wondering what to see in Grindelwald, instead you’ll be wondering how to cover all the incredible sights in your visit. 

From hiking Grindelwald to the Tissot Grindelwald Cliff Walk, to skiing or taking a cable car, Grindelwald will keep you busy all year round. 

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, Grindelwald is a must-visit destination.

🇨🇭 Read our complete guide to Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region .

Listen to our Jungfrau Region podcast

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15 Things to do in Grindelwald (Fun, Adventure & Epic Views)

Grindelwald is an idyllic little village in the Jungfrau region. In winter and spring, this town is a winter wonderland. In the summer, it is bursting with the color of emerald green pastures and wildflowers. Its location under the North Face of the Eiger mountain and at the base of Jungfraujoch makes it a gateway to one of the best destinations in the country.

From Grindelwald, it’s an easy trip to other popular villages in the region that makes for a truly memorable and adventurous Swiss holiday.

Photo by Atibordee_K on Trendhype / CC BY-ND

Things To Take

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Warm Layers

Backpack for walks or hiking

There are many ways you can spend your days (or weeks) in Grindelwald. To make it a little easier, here are 15 things to do to let you make the most out of Grindelwald and the entire Jungfrau region.

Around Grindelwald

Tissot Cliff Walk – First, Grindelwald

Grindelwald First

Snowy adventures are best done at Grindelwald First. It’s a summit that can be reached via cable car and is filled with different kinds of activities for any traveler. It’s also prime location for hiking .

The first thing anyone does upon reaching the summit is the First Cliff Walk . It’s a metal walkway jutting out of a cliff and projecting over 45 meters of a sheer drop. While looking down might be harrowing, looking above and beyond the valley is breathtaking. From this walkway, views of rocky slopes, Alpine peaks and pastures, and distant lakes are stunning.

Related: First Cliff Walk by Tissot – Conquer Your Fears

For those who have no problem with heights at all, the First Flyer is a thrill. It’s an 800-meter zip line that flies rider above the valley up to speeds of 84 kph.

If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, then take one of the many hiking trails in the area. The most popular one is the 3-kilometer hike to Bachalpsee . The trail is easy but uphill and marked by a wide gravel road, perfect for families and people of all ages.

The approximately one-hour hike rewards hikers with an 8.06-hectare lake split by a natural dam. The surrounding grounds are great for picnics with an Alpine backdrop. From here, it’s possible to continue on with different hiking trails.

Given the fairly forgiving landscape of the First, you can also rent mountain carts and ride down the tracks for mountainous views.

Eiger Trail

Photo by Craig Stanfill on Trend Hype / CC BY-SA

The North Face of the Eiger is a monumental wall of rock that stands as a landmark for Grindelwald. It attracts hundreds of climbers every year, but the trek to the foot of the Eiger is also worth the effort.

The journey starts at the  Eigergletscher station . From here, you can take the gorgeous mountain trail that takes you through views of the Lauberhorn, Kleine Scheidegg, and the Grindelwald valley . The trail takes you directly to the foot of the Eiger north face.

Every now and then, you’ll see climbers attempting to conquer the monumental slab of rock. If you continue on the trail, you’ll pass by streams and waterfalls and end up at the Alpiglen train station. There are so many routes in this area, here are some suggestions for other hikes and adventures . 

Related: 7 Mind-blowing Mountains to See in Switzerland

Jungfraujoch

You can’t pay a visit to Grindelwald and not spend time at Jungfraujoch.

Fondly dubbed as “Top of Europe” , this destination stands at an altitude of 3,545 meters. Getting there is already half the fun through the Jungfrau Railway , taking passengers from Klein Schiedegg and through tunnels and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

The railway also makes short stops at Eigerwand and Eismeer. From here, you can get a close look at the Eiger through observation windows. The rail ends at Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe.

There are observation platforms for you to take in the incredible views of nearby peaks such as the Eiger and Monch . From here you can also see Europe’s longest glacier, the Aletsch – a 24-km glacier that runs from the back of the Jungfrau.

There are several activities you can enjoy at the Jungfraujoch that are also ideal for families. The Ice Palace is a popular exhibit through an ice cave with beautifully carved out sculptures. The Jungfrau Panorama Film shows a 360-view of the region. If you prefer a view of the stars, then head to the Sphinx Observatory .

Another must-visit is the Lindt Chocolate Experience that shows visitors how the chocolate recipe was discovered. Outdoorsy folks will also enjoy year-round snow at the Snow Fun Park or a hike on the Aletsch Glacier and  The Monchjochhutte (Moch Alpine Hut).

Related:  Day trip from Lucerne to Jungfrau

Grosse Scheidegg

Photo by will_cyclist on TrendHype / CC BY-NC

Grosse Scheidegg is a car-free mountain pass that connects Grindelwald and Meiringen.

At an elevation of 1,962 meters, it grants views of Grindelwald, Eiger, and Kleine Scheidegg amidst flowery meadows and snowy mountains. It’s also at the foot of the Wetterhorn, a 3,692-meter peak first conquered in 1854.

Grosse Scheidegg is a bit of a climb from Grindelwald, taking approximately 3 hours and up 1,000 meters and over 10 kilometers. It’s a good way to take in the environment, and also makes for a good biking trail. You can cut the walk in half by taking the gondola to the First and starting from there.

Around Lauterbrunnen

Since Grindelwald is the gateway to the Jungfrau region, it will be a shame if you don’t venture further out into the neighboring town. First stop is Lauterbrunnen , a mere 25 minutes from Grindelwald via Grindelwaldstrasse .

Lauterbrunnen is set in a valley of rocky cliffs and stunning Swiss waterfalls . In fact, it’s called the valley of the 72 waterfalls and nestled at the foot of the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Monch.

Staubbach Falls

Photo credit: peterjcoughlan via Foter.com / CC BY-NC-ND

You probably won’t have time to see all 72 waterfalls, but make sure not to miss Staubbach Falls . This 300-meter cascade of water is the highest in Switzerland. It’s just outside the town and you can even admire its grandeur from afar.

However, it’s fairly easy to take a closer look. With just a short walk up the valley, you can experience the power of the falls from behind the cascading water. The path is clearly marked but can be very slippery. If you decide to take this walk, make sure to borrow some hiking poles at the start of the pathway to avoid any accidents.

Trummelbach Falls

One of the more unique waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen is Trummelbach Falls . It’s Europe’s only subterranean falls , which is actually a series of 10 falls hidden inside the mountain . It’s a strange and stunning sight and rightly deserves its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This beautiful and powerful cascade of water comes from meltwater from the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. It’s been raging through for thousands of years, resulting in beautiful formations carved out of the solid rock. A lift from the edge brings visitors down the first set of falls. There are pathways, rails, and viewing points throughout the falls.

Raging water is deafening and sometimes freezing, and comes from above and below. The last part of the trek is quite difficult with steep and slippery steps to see the last two of the ten chutes tumble into the Trümmelbach River. However, the experience is rewarding and the views of Lauterbrunnen at the end of the trek are stunning.

Related: Best Waterfalls in Switzerland

BASE Jumping

Photo by pictcorrect on Trendhype / CC BY-NC

BASE Jumping is a pretty popular sport around Lauterbrunnen. BASE Jumpers jump off a cliff, attempt to glide through the air, then pull open a parachute to land safely on the ground. It’s not the easiest thing to do, but the surrounding cliffs of Lauterbrunnen make it an ideal location for this extreme sport.

There are several exit points around the valley, and the hike up to these points is challenging in itself. If you’re interested in doing this, the Horner Pub is a local haunt for many BASE Jumpers you can tag along with.

If you’re not too much of a thrill-seeker, watching them fly through the air is also exciting. A trail from the Stechelburg and towards the Trummelbach Falls places you in view of several exit points in the area. On sunny days or in the summer, you’ll catch several BASE Jumpers taking a leap of faith over the valley.

Related: Paragliding in Interlaken

Photo by musical photo man on Trendhype / CC BY-NC-ND

For breathtaking views and the best spot to watch the sunset, take a trip to the Schilthorn . It became very popular after it was featured in the 1969 Bond movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” .

Even without blockbuster exposure, however, the Schilthorn remains a must-do for the dramatic observatory at an elevation of 2,600 meters. It’s a good hike to make with immensely satisfying rewards at the top. Otherwise, you can easily take a gondola up to the observatory.

Photo by scot2342 on Trend Hype / CC BY-NC-ND

A quick excursion to do is a trip to Murren . It’s a small car-free village on a plateau 850 meters above Lauterbrunnen . It’s highly popular in winter for its beautiful resorts and views, but summer holidays are great to spend here, too.

From Lauterbrunnen, you can ride a gondola to Grutschalp and then a train to Murren. It takes all of 30 minutes, and you arrive at the village of stunning views, quaint shops, and local eateries. The population is around 350, but the houses are spread out and create a feeling of wide-open space.

From the village, you can also take a funicular to Allmendhubel (1,907m).  Here you will get the best views of the Alps and spend time at the Skyline Chill relaxation zone or the Flower Park adventure playground. There are also numerous trails you can start in Murren as well, the most popular of which is towards Winteregg.

Related: Things to do in Murren Switzerland

Around Interlaken

After reveling in the peace and quiet of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, it’s high time for some action and adventure. The nearby town of Interlaken is also just a 30-minute train ride from Gridelwald. It’s a resort town in the Jungfrau region, built on a narrow stretch of a valley between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

With dense forests, alpine meadows, glaciers, and mountains all around it, Interlaken has become a big hit with adventure-seekers and holiday-makers of all kinds.

Related: Interlaken or Lucerne – Which is Right for You?

Paragliding

Photo by pihto_the_ded on TrendHype / CC BY-NC

Paragliding is a popular activity in Switzerland. Its mountainous views and Alpine climate are great for catching the wind. One of the most famous places to do it is Interlaken.

Interlaken provides good altitude for take-off and many unobstructed places that give great views and safer landings. There are several operators in the area, but the routes are all pretty similar. The most flown route is the Beatenberg-Interlaken Route, immersing the rider with panoramic views of the Bernese Oberland.

Taking up the airborne adventure another notch is skydiving . There are several options and prices available , but this is another popular activity in the town.

The trip always starts with a van ride from the town to a small hangar where orientation is done. A tandem dive with skilled professionals lets you soar through the skies for unparalleled views of the region. The landing may be turbulent, but the dive always ends in the best possible place to land – the Swiss Alps. Some packages also include picnics at the landing site to help you prolong the thrill.

Town Center

The Town Center of Interlaken is immensely charming. Most houses are made of old timber and, against the Alpine backdrop, it’s a very serene environment to be in.

The Main Streets are the busiest ones, mostly catering to tourists. There are many shops and cafes and, while some are overpriced, don’t be too quick to pass up on these “tourist traps”. A walk down these streets is enjoyable in itself, and here is where you’ll find some local souvenirs and tasty Swiss chocolates.

Towards the north of the town is a section of small streets that lead to the river . It gets a little more traditional here, and the houses are simply charming.

Funky Chocolate Club

Photo by bigbirdz on Trendhype / CC BY

Swiss chocolate is one of the country’s most iconic products, and the Funky Chocolate Club offers a great experience for it.

Aside from offering a wide range of different kinds of Swiss chocolates , they offer hour-long workshops on making your own delicious Swiss chocolate. The workshop includes taste-testing of their bestsellers, followed by a fun session of mixing and molding your own creations. A few hours later, you can return to the store and pick up your masterpiece.

St. Beatus Caves

Photo by James E. Petts on Trend Hype / CC BY-SA

The St. Beatus Caves is one of Switzerland’s most unique attractions. It’s an 800-meter system of tunnels and caves punctuated by shining stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. According to legend, St. Beat, a 6th-century monk, was hunting a dragon that took refuge in these caves.

The caves are located right beside the lakes of Interlaken and Thun. The underground journey is marked with well-lit pathways with endless panoramas of this geological wonder. The system is massive and built by nature like a maze. Only 14 kilometers have been fully explored, with more discoveries being unearthed all the time. More information is housed in the St. Beatus Museum .

The Oberhofen Castle

By PerSona77 [ CC BY-SA 3.0 ], from Wikimedia Commons

The castle is enchanting, especially since it’s surrounding by clear turquoise waters. Within the castle is an exhibit of life in the region from the 16th to the 19th century . There are several rooms in the castle you can walk through, as well as a history museum, an English-style garden along the riverbank, an extensive park, and a lakeside turret. The chapel within the castle is still in use for baptisms and weddings.

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About the author roger timbrook.

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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9 Best Things to Do in Grindelwald-First (+ One Day Itinerary)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 14, 2024

Grindelwald-First is one of the top places to visit when traveling to Grindelwald in Switzerland. Just like many other places in the region, it’s a destination in itself and you can easily spend several days exploring this area alone. However, even if you only have a day in Grindelwald, this guide should help you make the absolute best of your time.

In this article, we cover some of the best adrenaline-rushing activities at Grindelwald-First, the best views including the famous Cliff Walk, and also some of the nicest hiking trails in the area.

Below, you can find a list of the best things to do in Grindelwald-First . Further down, you can find a map of the area and practical information for your visit. At the bottom of this article, we included four different itinerary suggestions for how to spend one day in Grindelwald . Take a look!

Good to know: While most outdoor activities at Grindelwald-First are possible in any season, some of the adventurous mountain attractions are only available in summer. For example, Mountain Cart and Trottibike are summer activities, but First Glider, First Flyer, and Cliff Walk are usually open in the winter as well (weather permitting). In winter, this area is very popular with skiers and snowboarders.

Keep in mind that you can only visit Grindelwald-First when the cable car is running, which is usually almost all year except for a few weeks in November to mid-December.

Here are the best things to do at Grindelwald – First:

1. Amazing Views from Grindelwald-First Cable Car

Grindelwald – First is located at the top of the mountain and can best be reached by cable car from Grindelwald . The scenic gondola ride from Grindelwald to First takes 25 minutes and the views along the way are simply phenomenal. You won’t know where to look first…

On your way up, you’ll pass two mountain gondola stations – Bort and Schreckfeld. For Trottibike, you’ll have to disembark at Bort. If you are planning to go on the First Glider, First Flyer, or Mountain Cart, you’ll need to disembark at Schreckfeld. For the First Cliff Walk and Bachalpsee Lake, remain seated all the way to the end, until you reach First.

Ideally, you first go all the way up and start with the activities at First. Then slowly make your way down the mountain. On the other hand, that’s what most people do and so if you want to avoid the queues at some of the most popular activities, you may want to start there first thing in the morning. More information below.

2. First Glider

I recommend starting your day with a flight over the mountains. If you ever wanted to see the world from a bird’s eye, this is your chance. First Glider is a recent attraction at the Grindelwald-First area and is an absolute must!

First Glider is a sort of a zip line experience, except that you are flying like a bird with your face down. At first, you are pulled 800 m backwards up the hill and then you fly down at a speed of 83 km/h.

Securely fastened and free as an eagle, you soar over an alpine valley with the most incredible views around you. It’s one of the most special things you can do, not just in Grindelwald, but anywhere in the world. And I strongly recommend you overcome any fears and uncertainties and give it a try.

We went on First Glider mainly because our kids absolutely wanted to do it. I was terrified and wasn’t sure until the last moment if I’d dare. When they buckled me up to the ‘bird’, I really thought of throwing in the towel. But there was no way back and so I decided to relax and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

As we were flying, I was looking all around me trying to absorb every single detail and every single moment of this short flight. I absolutely loved it and so did the kids!

First Glider with Kids

When we visited, we found conflicting information with regards to age/height requirements for First Glider. Some sources said that the minimum age is 10 years, whereas others said that the minimum height is 130 cm (4ft 3).

Our twins were just 8 so we weren’t sure if they could fly. Upon arrival, the staff told us that the only thing that matters is the height. Since our kids were taller than 130cm, they could go on First Glider.

Flying on First Glider is by far one of the most unique experiences ever and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. The kids loved it as well! They wouldn’t stop talking about it for days to come. We all agreed that First Glider was the most remarkable experience of the summer.

Practical Information

First Glider starts and ends near Schrekfeld gondola station. The flight itself takes just a minute or two, but only 4 people can go at once, so the queues here can get really long. If you want to do this, I recommend coming here first thing in the morning.

The maximum allowed weight is 125 kg (275 lbs) per person. Bags are not allowed on First Glider. But since you start and end at the same place, you can easily leave all your belongings there.

First Glider requires a separate ticket. At the end of this article, you can find more information about the tickets.

3. First Cliff Walk by Tissot

First Cliff Walk by Tissot  is the most popular thing to do in Grindelwald-First. It doesn’t require any special equipment, doesn’t take much time, and is free to enter. So if you do just one thing at Grindelwald-First, make it this one.

Cliff Walk is a metal walkway and a swinging bridge perched on the side of the First Mountain (2,168 m – 7,112 ft). There is also a viewing platform that stretches high above the ravine affording wonderful views of the region.

If you have a fear of heights, it might look a bit intimidating at first. But the views are amazing and it’s well worth beating your fears and taking a short walk here.

READ MORE: First Cliff Walk

4. First Flyer

First Flyer is another flight attraction at Grindelwald-First. It’s a zip line with one-person chairs, so you fly while seated. It’s a bit like a chair swing ride, but downhill and really fast. Secured with a harness, you fly down from First to Schreckfeld, enjoying incredible views along the way.

We didn’t do this because our younger kids were too small for the First Flyer, but it looked really fun.

If you have enough time, I think I’d do both flights – First Glider and First Flyer. But if you only want to do one, I’d go for the First Glider as it’s a much more unique experience that just can’t be compared to anything else.

First Flyer starts at First and ends at Schreckfeld. It’s also a very popular attraction and queues can get quite long.

Furthermore, backpacks or other bags are not allowed on the First Flyer. You have to leave them at the top gondola station in First. That means that after your ride, you’ll have to take a cable car back to First. Grindelwald Train Station also has luggage storage, but you’ll probably want to take a small backpack with you anyway, so keep this in mind when planning your day at Grindelwald – First.

The minimum weight for the First Flyer is 35 kg (77 lbs) and the maximum weight is 125 kg (275 lbs).

First Flyer requires a separate ticket – more info further below.

5. Bachalpsee

Picturesque Bachalpsee Lake is another popular thing to do at Grindelwald-First. This charming mountain lake is located within a short walking distance from the Grindelwald-First cable car station and is one of the most beautiful hikes in Grindelwald.

Not just the lake is pretty, but the scenery along the Bachalpsee trail is phenomenal. Furthermore, it’s a really easy hike with little elevation gain and is doable for most people.

The downside is that this hike is extremely popular and very busy. But don’t get discouraged by the crowds – there is plenty of space for everyone and the hike and the lake itself is very enjoyable.

READ MORE: Bahalpsee Lake

6. First Mountain Cart

Mountain Cart is another popular thing to do at Grindelwald-First. It’s a sort of a go-cart that’s adapted for the mountains, with big rubber tires and an efficient brake system. You need some skill to drive it, but it’s not too difficult and something that can be done with older kids as well.

You can find Mountain Carts at Schreckfeld cable car station. From there, you can drive down the mountain to Bort.

There is no minimum age, but kids have to be at least 135 cm (4ft 4) tall in order to drive this Mountain Cart. Keep in mind, however, that everyone sits on their own and have to be able to control the cart by themselves.

You need a separate ticket for the Mountain Cart – more info below.

7. First Trottibike Scooter

Somewhat more adventurous and requiring more skill is the scooter bike, First Trottibike . It’s a scooter bike with no seats or pedals and is suitable for kids from 125 cm (4ft 1). You can rent them at Bort cable car station and ride down the mountain all the way back to Grindelwald.

Our boys really wanted to give this a try and it looked fun. But when we asked the staff what they thought about letting kids do this, the guy working there said that he wouldn’t advise it. Some parts of the ride are quite steep and you have to be able to brake and steer really well.

I think it’s really fun for adults and teens, but we didn’t feel comfortable doing this with our kids (age 8, 8, and 10 at that time).

You also need a separate ticket for the Trottibike Scooter – more info below.

In addition to the Bachalpsee hike mentioned above, there are many more hiking trails in the Grindelwald – First area. Further below you can find a map with an overview of all the hiking trails in the area.

Here are some of the most popular options, the best hikes starting at Grindelwald – First and passing Bachalpsee:

• Bachalpsee Trail (#1): First – Bachalpsee – First: 2 hrs
• Faulhorn Trail (#2): First – Bachalpsee – Faulhorn – Bussalp: 4 hrs
• Flower Trail (#4): First – Bachalpsee – Waldspitz – Bort: 2,5 hrs
• First – Schynige Platte (#62): First – Bachalpsee – Faulhorn – Schynige Platte: 6-7hrs

READ MORE: Best Hikes at Bachalpsee

9. Family-friendly Activities

While most activities at Grindelwald – First are quite adventurous, there are also some nice things to do here for families with young children.

To start with, the Bachalpsee Lake hike is family-friendly and First Cliff Walk can also be done with young children.

In addition, there is a nice playground for kids at Bort gondola station . Here, you’ll find swings, climbing and balancing frames, a kid-friendly mountain stream, and more.

You can also embark on the interactive Marmot Educational Trail (#17) that starts at First cable car station. Make sure to ask for kids’ booklet before you set on this hike – it’s available at the ticket desk.

Map of Grindelwald-First Area

This map should give you a better idea of where everything is.

You can also see all the hiking trails – I used those numbers to indicate the hikes mentioned in this article, so you know exactly which hike I mean.

Tickets & Prices

At the moment of the last update, the Grindelwald – First round trip gondola ticket costs 68 CHF per person, with 50% discounts available for Swiss Travel Pass holders. Kids pay half the price; kids under 6 travel free of charge. You can find the best deal for these tickets with flexible cancelation here .

First Glider and First Flyer tickets cost 31 CHF each (24 CHF for kids under 15). In winter, these activities are included with the multi-day Grindelwald ski pass.

Mountain Cart or Trottbike Scooter Bike rides cost 21 CHF per ride per person (17 CHF for kids under 15).

We used the  Jungfrau Travel Pass  during our visit – it’s a multi-day summer ticket that includes all the gondola and train rides in the area. But it doesn’t include any of the extra attractions at Grindelwald-First that require a separate ticket.

TIP: If you are in Grindelwald just for a day and are planning to do some of the additional activities at Grindelwald-First, it is probably better to get a combination ticket that includes cable car rides as well as extra attractions . It’s called Adventure Package and you can choose 1, 2, 3, or all 4 activities. There are further discounts available for Swiss Travel Pass holders and others. In that case, you may want to get the ticket on the spot (and ask them about all the possible activities and/or discounts).

Good to know: You can disembark at the intermediate gondola stations and take the gondola using your day ticket as many times as you want.

For up-to-date pricing and tickets, you can check the website of the Jungfrau Region . Please note that you don’t necessarily have to buy these tickets in advance and can just get them upon arrival. Keep in mind that they do not issue any refunds in case of bad weather.

READ ALSO: Swiss Travel Pass: What’s Included & Is It Worth It

One Day in Grindelwald – Itinerary Suggestions

There are so many ways to spend your time in Grindelwald. Even just at the Grindelwald – First area, you can spend a couple of days… Not even mentioning the rest of the beautiful Jungfrau Region.

Nevertheless, here are 4 different suggested itineraries for this area that should give you a good idea of how you can spend one day in Grindelwald. Whether you are visiting with kids, are looking for adrenaline-rushing activities, or something in between – Grindelwald-First area truly has something for everyone.

How to spend one day at Grindelwald-First:

I. Adventure & Hiking Itinerary

This itinerary is based on what we did last time we visited Grindelwald with our kids. In my view, this is one of the best and more relaxing ways to spend a day in Grindelwald. It has a nice combination of everything that this area has to offer.

• Take a cable car from Grindelwald to Schreckfeld.
• First Glider .
• Take a cable car to First.
• First Cliff Walk .
• Hike to Bachalpsee (#1) and picnic lunch along the way.
• Hike the Flower Trail (#4) to Bort .
• In Bort, time permitting, take a Trottibike Scooter down to Grindelwald (optional). Otherwise, take a cable car to Grindelwald.

One alternative is to hike Faulhorn Trail (#2) to Bussalp and take a bus down to Grindelwald.

Another alternative is to hike to Bachalpsee and back to First (#1) and do one or more mountain attractions there, e.g. First Flyer or Mountain Cart.

II. Adventure Itinerary

This itinerary is focused on all the mountain attractions that you can do at Grindelwald-First.

If you want to do everything from this itinerary, you’ll have to start early and plan well. Otherwise, skip one or two things (I indicated them as optional below) – that way you’ll have a more relaxing day.

• First Flyer (optional)
• Cable car back to First and lunch at the restaurant in First.
• Bachalpsee hike (optional – count at least 2 hours).
• Take a cable car down to Schreckfeld and take a Mountain Cart down to Bort.

III. Hiking Itinerary

If you are not very interested in the Grindelwald – First mountain attractions, you can also opt for this option. However, keep in mind that it’s a strenuous hike and you have to start it very early in the morning.

• Take a cable car from Grindelwald to First.
• Hike to Bachalpsee, Faulhorn, and all the way to Schynigge Platte (trail #62) . It’s a rather strenuous 16km hike and you should count at least 6-7 hours for it (realistically 7-8 hours). Here you can find more info about First – Faulhorn – Schynigge Platte hike .
• Take a train from Schynige Platte to Wilderswil and from there back to Grindelwald or wherever you are staying.

IV. Itinerary for Families with Young Kids

This is an easy-going itinerary for families with young children.

• Hike to Bachalpsee (#1) or Marmot Educational Trail (#17) and have a picnic along the way.
• Take a cable car to Bort and visit the playground .
• Take a cable car back to Grindelwald.

Where to Stay

Grindelwald has a big range of accommodations for different budgets. When looking for a place to stay, consider a few things: the season when you travel, transportation you’ll be using, accessibility of the hotel from the main roads, and – if driving – parking.

Here are some of the best-rated, centrally-located hotels for various budgets:

$$$$$ Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel $$$$ Eiger Selfness Hotel $$$ Sunstar Hotel & SPA $$ Hotel Central Wolter $ Eiger Lodge Chic

Good to know: If you want to stay on top of the mountain, there’s also a hotel at Grindelwald-First, Berggasthaus First . It’s a really special experience being here early morning and late evening when the gondolas are not running and there’s hardly anyone around.

Grindelwald can be reached by car, by bus, or by train. If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to get to Grindelwald is by taking a train from Interlaken Ost station.

The easiest way to get to First from Grindelwald is by taking a cable car . The ride takes about 25 minutes and the views are spectacular! You can also hike from Grindelwald to First, but it’s a challenging hike of almost 9 km one way, with an elevation gain of about 1,200 m (4,000 ft).

The best thing to do in Grindelwald First is to admire the views from the First Cliff Walk by Tissot and the viewing platforms at the top cable car station. You can also hike to Bachalpsee Lake and there are many other nice hikes. In addition, there are many adventure activities, such as First Glider and First Flyer. In winter, you can go skiing here.

Grindelwald is one of the most popular mountain resorts in Switzerland. It’s famous for its stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains, a big variety of outdoor activities in all seasons, and also shopping. The main landmark in the area is Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe. The most beautiful mountain peaks nearby are Jungfrau, Mönch, Eiger, and Wetterhorn on one side and First and Oberjoch on the other side.

Grindelwald-First area has a lot to offer in every season and the scenery here is some of the most beautiful in the whole of Switzerland. No matter if you are visiting in winter or in summer, Grindelwald-First is definitely worth it. Plan to spend at least one full day here!

READ ALSO: Switzerland Itinerary For First Trip

So, this is our guide to the best things to do in Grindelwald-First and suggestions for how to plan your visit. Planning a trip to Grindelwald and have any questions? Leave a reply below and we’ll try to help.

Have a great trip!

More info for visiting the Jungfrau Region:

• Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe  – a must-see in this region!
• Which is better: Mt Titlis or Jungfraujoch
• Schynige Platte  – a hidden gem of Switzerland
• Best Hikes at Schynige Platte  – including one of our all-time favorite hikes in Switzerland
• Day Trip to Interlaken  – with several suggested 1-day itineraries
• Trümmelbach Falls  – must-see underground waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen
• Jungfrau Region in Winter  – just as beautiful as in summer

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Zermatt Must-Sees & Top Attractions & Best Day Trips from Lucerne

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Monday 4th of March 2024

Wonderful blog - thank you for including all the details and your personal experiences to make the most informed decisions.

I was curious in your multiple trips to Grindelwald, have you ever taken the gondola to Pfingstegg and done any of the activities (fly line and tobaggon) and/or hiking trails?

Thanks, jeff.

Tuesday 5th of March 2024

Hi Jeff, no, somehow we never seem to get to that side of the mountain. It looks fun and should be much less busy than all the rest in the area though, so if you have some extra time, give it a try.

Wednesday 20th of September 2023

Dear Jurga,

Thank you for such an informative write up really appreciated it, Have you been there during winter and what are the available activities during winter?

Regards Brian

Thursday 21st of September 2023

Hi Brian, yes, weather-permitting most of the things are open in winter too. The viewing platforms and First Cliff Walk are open and also First Glider and First Flyer. You can go skiing and sledding as well. Keep in mind that the summer season ends in the beginning of November and the winter season starts around mid-December. For a short period in between, everything is likely closed. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 19th of September 2023

Thank you for such an informative post about the Grindelwald-First region. Question for you...Do they have professional photos taken of all four people on the Glider while you're flying down? Are the photos in your blog actually of you and your family? If so, do you have the opportunity to buy the pictures at the end of the ride? Thank in advance!

Hi Malee, my husband took the pictures of us on the First Glider. There is no photo service as far as I know, but you can always ask someone else who is staying behind or maybe even the staff.

Saturday 9th of September 2023

How long is the round trip hike from First to Bachalpsee

Monday 11th of September 2023

Hi Claudette, you can find all the info in our guide to Bachalpsee hike.

Tuesday 5th of September 2023

Do you know are backpacks allowed on the Trottibike Scooters and/or Mountain Carts?

Hi Mark, I'm not 100% sure. Based on our experience in various places in Switzerland, they don't allow backpacks on Mountain Carts, but allow them on Trottibikes. If your backpack is very small and you can somehow wear it in front of you on the mountain cart, maybe it could work, but I wouldn't want to do that myself. You really need to focus on steering and avoid anything that could be in your way. It's best to take as little with you as possible if you want to do all these activities. Or you will simply have to take the gondola back to where you started to pick up your backpack. A small crossbody bag is often easier.

Grindelwald, Switzerland: ultimate travel guide & 12 things to do

I completely fell in love with the gorgeous town of Grindelwald in Switzerland when I first visited. It’s a place where charm and tranquillity meet adventure and adrenaline.

It combines the fairytale features of a traditional Swiss town with the thrill-seeking activities of a cosmopolitan mountain resort – and I always love the best of both worlds!

As you wander through the town, discover cobbled streets which are lined with colourful geranium-clad wooden chalets. You may as well be meandering through the pages of a storybook.

Look up and you’ll see the breathtaking mountain vistas which surround Grindelwald. I’m not surprised that these mountains have stolen the hearts of many an alpine adventurer, from hikers and climbers to skiers and snowboarders. 

Grindelwald is an enchanting Swiss destination with plenty to do during all seasons. My Grindelwald travel guide outlines everything you need to know about visiting this picturesque place.

From how to get there and when to visit, to the best things to do in and around the town.

Also detailed are the best places to stay, eat and drink in this beguiling Alpine resort, as well as some of the most frequently asked questions I get about visiting Grindelwald. 

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

How to get to Grindelwald 

Those planning to visit Grindelwald can choose between driving and taking the train – personally, I’d recommend the latter.

Though the closest airport is Bern , this airport mainly offers domestic flights. But if you do plan to stay in the city, you can discover the best hotels in Bern in my guide.

Zurich is thus the best choice for visitors flying in from overseas, and it takes about two to three hours to reach Grindelwald by car or train.

Read my guide to the best day trips from Zurich , including Grindelwald, or unearth my pick of the best luxury hotels in Zurich .

Wherever in Switzerland you’re coming from, you’ll need to travel via Interlaken if taking the train. The train trip between Interlaken and Grindelwald takes just over half an hour, and there are generally two trains per hour. 

Trust me when I say that the train journey to Grindelwald in intself is part of the experience. The scenery en route is just breathtaking!

For anyone planning to travel by train in Switzerland , I’d really recommend checking out the Swiss Travel Pass . Holders of these passes benefit from free or discounted travel by public transport as well as admission to local attractions. 

Parking in Grindelwald can be found at the multi-storey Eiger Centre car park in the heart of town.

Once you arrive, however, getting around is often easiest by local transport such as cable car or rail services, as many areas are traffic-free (which I think is part of its charm!).

Best time of year to visit Grindelwald

I love that visiting Grindelwald in winter is just as popular as during summer – if not more so.  Skiing is of course popular during the coldest months, when there is plenty of powdery snow ideal for winter sports. 

If you’re more interested in Grindelwald things to do in summer, then June to September sees the warmest temperatures.

During these months daytime highs may reach between 15 and 17°C, while overnight temperatures tend to remain in double figures.

That said, I’d say that visiting during the shoulder seasons will provide truly spectacular vistas – from flowers in bloom during spring to the golden colours of autumn.

12 best things to do in Grindelwald

1. gletscherschlucht gorge.

Also known as the Grindelwald Glacier Gorge , Gletscherschlucht gorge is one of the top things to do in – and I can see why.

To reach it, take a bus from town to the Gletscherschlucht stop, or it’s around half an hour’s walk from town, which I’d recommend if the weather is good.

Once you’re there, marvel at the 300 metre walls, rock galleries, whirlpools and even waterfalls. Trust me when I say that it’s truly spectacular!

The elevated walkway is easy to follow, though it can be challenging to those afraid of heights. 

Book your entrance ticket here .

2. Skiing in Grindelwald

I’m pleased to say that skiing in Switzerland’s Grindelwald is ideal for all abilities. The biggest beginner’s area in the Jungfrau region can be found here.

Almost 100 miles of runs mean that more advanced skiers should also be satisfied with the thrills that skiing in Grindelwald can provide.  

Snow tubing and sled rides are also popular in this Swiss winter sports destination. 

Discover more of the best ski resorts for beginners in my guide.

3. Canyon Swing

The canyon swing in Grindelwald is open between April and November and I’d definitely recommend this one for thrill seekers.

If you can face up to travelling at 75 miles per hour while free-falling for 50 metres, this is an essential experience!

Leaping into the narrow gorge as the river flows beneath isn’t for the faint-hearted. But it certainly supplies an adrenaline rush for adventurous types.

Book your canyon swing experience here .

4. Jungfraujoch peak

Often referred to as the ‘Top of Europe’, taking a trip to the mountain peak almost 3,500 metres above sea level is one of the reasons many people visit. 

It doesn’t matter if you go to Grindelwald in Switzerland at Christmas or in summer, as trains operate all year round. In fact, I consider it to be one of the best train rides in Switzerland .

At the summit there are restaurants, shops and an ice palace, as well as the Sphinx Observatory to discover. 

Book your round-trip ticket from Grindelwald .

5. Hire Trotti Bikes

I’d really recommend hiring Trotti bike scooters as a fun activity for all ages. You can set off from Bort station for your descent, which can be reached via the local First cable car. 

It’s around three miles from Bort to the bottom. En route you can see pretty Alpine meadows and traditional Swiss chalets in addition to experiencing the thrill of the ride. 

6. First Mountain

I’d also advise taking a trip up First mountain when visiting, as it’s another of the most popular things to do in Grindelwald.

It can be reached by cable car , and keen walkers often hop off at one of the stops along the way to hike up or down.

Other things to do once you reach the summit include the Cliff Walk with spectacular views (don’t miss this!) and dining at the restaurant, which also offers incredible Alpine panoramas. 

Book your gondola ride to Mount First .

7. First Flyer

The First Flyer offers another adrenaline-inducing experience for thrill seekers. You can travel at over 50 miles per hour along the half-mile long track. 

Up to four people can travel this thrilling zip line together after being secured into a harness. The ride will take you from the summit of First to the Schreckfeld station on the mountainside. 

8. First Glider

As with the First Flyer, up to four passengers (aged ten or over) can take the half-mile flight up to the summit at high speed – and I really recommend that you do!

The First Glider is shaped just like an eagle. Those taking a ride can soar over the landscape while enjoying bird’s eye views over the surrounding area.

9. First Mountain Carts

Another fun way to see Grindelwald and the mountains is to take a First Mountain Cart ride. The route is a couple of miles, with lots of lush Alpine meadows and stunning mountain peaks to see along the way.

I’d describe it as a little like taking a ride on a sledge, but this Grindelwald activity is available all year round.

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10. Lake Bachalp at Bachalpsee

Lake Baccalp is an attractive mirror lake near Grindelwald that reflects the surrounding peaks in its still waters. It’s accessed by hiking there from the summit of First, and the trek takes under an hour.

Trust me, it’s well worth the effort to see for yourself the mountains reflected in the shimmering waters of the lake’s surface, as no pictures really do this place justice. 

11. Männlichen peak

Positioned at 2,343 metres above sea level, Männlichen is another popular mountain summit in the Grindelwald area.

It can be reached via gondola or aerial cable car, plus a short walk of around 15 minutes to reach the top.

There are breathtaking views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley as well as the Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch – from both the cable car and the mountain path. 

12. Summer Tobogganing at Pfinstegg

If you visit during summer, I’d recommend taking a toboggan ride from behind the Pfingstegg gondola station, as it offers a fun way to see the magnificent scenery of the Grindelwald area. 

This downhill ride is suitable for children aged four and over when accompanied by an adult. 

Best hotels in Grindelwald

1. sunstar hotel & spa.

Address: Dorfstrasse 168, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Wellness

I’d recommend booking into the Sunstar Hotel and Spa for the uninterrupted views of the Eiger’s North Face alone.

This centrally located hotel also offers a swimming pool, bar and spacious wellness centre.

The First cable car stop is directly opposite the hotel, and some double rooms and suites offer Eiger views from private, furnished balconies. 

2. Hotel Spinne

Address: Dorfstrasse 136, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Mountain views

Hotel Spinne can also be found in the heart of Grindelwald. The decor is rustic yet stylish, and amenities include a mountain-view restaurant with terrace.

There is also a steam bath, sauna and hot tub on site – plus the real hihgly for me is the heated outdoor infinity pool.

The second restaurant serves up Swiss specialities served rotisserie style. Plus, there’s a lounge with piano and an espresso bar at the property.

3. Boutique Hotel Glacier

Address: Endweg 55, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Boutique feel

In my opinion, the Boutique Hotel Glacier is one of the finest Grindelwald Switzerland hotels for discerning guests.

It is also positioned in view of the Eiger’s iconic North Face. There is a spa, a restaurant with a terrace and a cocktail bar here.  

Once used as a sheep stable, this property now makes use of features like full length glass walls and sparkling decorative features.

All set against a subtle, contemporary backdrop to reflect the location perfectly. 

4. Hotel Cabana

Address: Dorfstrasse 46, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Family-run hotel

The family-run Hotel Cabana offers guests from all over the world a warm welcome. Plus, a special guest card gives complimentary access to the ski bus, ice skating rink and indoor swimming pool.

Hotel Cabana has an on-site gym and sauna, as well as some attractive outdoor spaces. These include an al fresco kitchen, a kids’ play park and a garden furnished with comfortable deck chairs.

5. Hotel Grindelwalderhof

Address: Dorfstrasse 155, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Chalet hotel

Housed in a traditional Swiss chalet, Hotel Grindelwalderhof combines the classic and the contemporary to offer superb three star accommodation in Grindelwald. 

The village centre and train station are close by and many of the Swiss-style rooms have private balconies. There is a sauna and restaurant with terrace at Hotel Grindelwalderhof. 

For more options, I’d suggest browsing the full range of hotels in and around Grindelwald .

Best bars, cafés & restaurants in Grindelwald

1. restaurant belvedere.

Address: Dorfstrasse 53, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Classic Swiss specialities

Centrally located on Dorfstrasse, Restaurant Belvedere in Grindelwald is an elegant eatery serving a range of Swiss and modern European dishes. 

I’d highly rate the food, service and the views at Restaurant Belvedere, plus vegan, gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available. 

2. Cafe 3692

Address: Terrassenweg 61, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Cosy, friendly atmosphere

The charming Cafe 3692 is also one of the most highly regarded Grindelwald restaurants in Switzerland, I can see why. It offers local and European cuisine, with gluten-free and vegan options available.

I think this is a great place for a cake and coffee pitstop during the day or a full-on evening dining experience.The eclectic decor provides visitors with some interesting photo opportunities too.

Best for: Michelin-recommended

The restaurant at Hotel Glacier is also a firm favourite on the Grindelwald foodie scene, and it has 15 GaultMillau points to its name.

All-day dining is offered here, from a relaxed buffet breakfast to a sumptuous, multi-course evening feast.

The outdoor terrace is a highlight during summer and I think it’s the perfect place to sample some of the chef’s own homemade ice cream.

Address: Almisgässli 1, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Beautiful views

I don’t think that dining experiences come much more Swiss than at C und M . The restaurant is housed in a wooden Swiss chalet, and offers fantastic views of the Eiger.

From delicious cakes to full evening meals, the food is pretty fabulous too. Again vegan and gluten-free options are offered and guests can pick from a range of Swiss and European specialities.

5. Avocado Bar 

Address: Dorfstrasse 158, 3818 Grindelwald

Best for: Lively atmosphere

If you’ve come to Grindelwald in search of the apres-ski scene, then Avocado Bar is the place to be after dark.

With live music and outdoor seating, I love that this friendly bar offers a laid-back atmosphere and homemade snacks and sandwiches in addition to drinks.

Avocado Bar can be found on Dorfstrasse in the centre of the village and is something of a local hub for those who wish to socialise after a day of skiing or sightseeing. 

Grindelwald travel guide FAQs

Are there any good day trips from grindelwald.

There are some great day trips to take from the Swiss resort of Grindelwald.

Visiting Jungfraujoch , aka the Top of Europe, is a must for many visitors. You can also go to the summit of the First or Männlichen mountains.

Other popular day trips include Lake Bachalp, which you can hike to from First, or Gletscherschlucht gorge.

Various destinations also offer activities like trotti bikes, the canyon swing, toboggan rides, thrilling zip lines and the First mountain carts. 

For more ideas, have a read of my guide to the best fairytale towns in Switzerland .

Is Grindelwald expensive?

As with many locations across Switzerland, Grindelwald can be an expensive place to be. I’d suggest that the best approach is to be prepared, budgeting what you need in order to make the most of your visit. 

Not everything needs to be costly, however. Once you’ve booked and paid for your accommodation, those stunning Alpine views are thrown in for free.

Hiking the trails is a low-cost activity many enjoy, and you can save money by purchasing the right Swiss travel passes for your trip. 

Is Grindelwald a good place to visit at Christmas?

With its wintry setting dotted with traditional Swiss chalets, I think Grindelwald provides the perfect backdrop for a pre or post Christmas break.

This is during ski season, so it’s a favourite among winter sports fans as well as those who love all things festive. 

Watch my travel vlog to see what I got up to when I visited Grindelwald:

Planning a trip to Switzerland? You may also like:

• 15 best spa resorts in Switzerland
• 12 most scenic train rides in Switzerland 
• 21 beautiful fairytale towns in Switzerland

Or have a read of my travel guides for Montreux , Gruyères , Zermatt and Chur .

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4 Day Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Switzerland

Updated On: February 8, 2024

As we hike through the landscape of the Swiss Alps , it feels as if we have entered a fairytale. Imposing mountains surround the slopes dotted with pretty little chalets as cowbells chime in the distance. Welcome to Grindelwald, Switzerland.

I don’t think I have witnessed a more magical place on earth. Every turn offers one incredible view after another. Add fun and quirky adventures to the spectacular scenery and you have the perfect vacation destination. We’ve been lucky enough to visit the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland three times, but it wasn’t until this past trip where we had four glorious days that we really had the chance to take advantage of all it has to offer.

Things to do in Grindelwald – 4 Day Itinerary

Grindelwald may be one of Switzerland’s most popular ski resorts but there are plenty of things that make Grindelwald the country’s ultimate summer destination as well. This picture-perfect town is nestled within the Swiss Alps surrounded by the famed ski areas of Switzerland ; Grindelwald First, the Männlichen, and the Kleine Scheidegg with the mighty Eiger standing proud overhead. This four-day itinerary will let you see the best of Grindelwald in an easy-to-follow schedule.

Day 1 – Arrive Grindelwald

Where to stay in grindelwald.

Arriving at the picturesque town of Grindelwald, we checked into the Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald . It is the perfect location for exploring the Jungfrau region as it is located close to the Grindelwald train station and is within walking distance of downtown. It also has magnificent views of the surrounding mountains with a beautiful spa and restaurant on sight.

Afternoon: Glacier Canyon Grindelwald – Gletscherschlucht

After checking into our room, we drove up to the Gletscherschlucht (Glacier Canyon Grindelwald) to explore. You can also catch bus 122 from Grindelwald directly to Gletscherschlucht. Glacier Canyon is located only 5 minutes from downtown Grindelwald.

Grindelwald Glacier Canyon Video

Gletscherschlucht is one of the coolest attractions in Grindelwald and you don’t want to miss seeing it. Visitors walk through a series of tunnels, walkways, and rocky outcrops as the Lütschine River roars through the 250 million-year-old canyon. This 870-meter long path is an extraordinary glacier canyon walk through high cliffs stretching up from the canyon floor.

There is also a 170 square meter spiderweb trampoline where you can bounce above the rushing water and stair directly down the centre of the canyon.

If you want to be truly adventurous, there is a gorge canyon swing where you can leap off the 300-meter high cliff plunging into the canyon below. For more information on Glacier Canyon visit the Grindelwald website .

Evening Day 1

After exploring the canyon, head back to Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald for dinner. We had the half board package which means breakfast and dinner were included. This is a great way to save money. The restaurant has an outdoor terrace with beautiful views of the mountains and sunset making it the perfect choice for day 1 in Grindelwald.

After dinner, take advantage of its luxurious spa. There are plenty of spas in Grindelwald as going to the spa is as Swiss as Gruyere Cheese. The spa at Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof was fabulous. There’s an indoor pool and a series of hot saunas and cold baths and ice foot baths and ice rubs to soothe your muscles.

The icy cold foot bath spa was perfect to ease our aching feet each day after the long beautiful hikes in Grindelwald. When visiting Grindelwald in the summer, there is a lot of hiking involved, so the spa is a great way to unwind after each day.

Day 2 – Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

A buffet breakfast is included with a half-board stay at Romantic Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald and we filled up on an array of delicious Swiss cheese and pastries before catching the train to Grindelwald Terminal just outside the hotel.

Morning: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

With a Jungfrau Railways pass in hand, we hopped on the three-minute train journey from Grindelwald train station to Grindelwald Terminal. Grindelwald Terminal is a state-of-the-art ski terminal with a shopping center and restaurants. It is also the place where you catch the Gondola up to Eigergletscher before heading on to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. Read our full guide to Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

You can purchase tickets from Grindelwald or Interlaken to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe in advance at  Jungfrau Railways.  We highly recommend a   Top of Europe Pass  to allow flexibility for the weather. Passes start at 3 days for 239 CHF ($260 USD)

Eiger Express

From Grindelwald Terminal, take the Eiger Express to Eiger Glacier station. The Eiger Express is the newest gondola in the region. The ultra-modern tri-cable gondola has taken 47 minutes off the ride to Jungfraujoch with its high-speed efficiency. It can also take up to 4000 guests per hour up the mountain. Once you reach the Eigergletscher train station in a speedy 15 minutes, it is time to transfer to the historic cog railway that takes you the rest of the way up to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe.

Jungfrau Railway

This train journey is a must when visiting Grindelwald. The Jungfrau Railway has been operating since 1912 and it cuts through the Eiger and Mönch mountains taking you out at Europe’s highest railway station. The 35-minute journey is an experience unto itself as you climb through history to the world’s highest train station at 3,454 meters (7723 feet). For tickets and reservations, visit the website for more details.

Aletsch glacier

Before you reach the top, there is a five-minute scenic stop at the Aletsch glacier – The Longest Glacier in Europe. Partway through the 7 kilometers (4.3 mi) long tunnel. This is an excellent view of the 23 km-long (14miles) glacier. After a short 5 minute stop, it is back on the train for the premier attraction. Don’t worry, you will see the glacier again from above.

Sphinx Observatory

Our first stop at Jungfraujoch was the Sphinx Observation Deck where we boarded a high-speed elevator taking us up 108 metres (354 feet) in 25 seconds. Emerging outside to the viewing platform, we felt the cold wind hit our faces as the most extraordinary view unfolded before our eyes. Jungfraujoch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In fact, Jungfrau-Aletsch was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the alpine region.

From up here, you’ll see views of Italy, France, and Germany with four thousand meter peaks and Jungfrau Mountain on one side and the Lauterbrunnen Valley and glaciers on the other. We spent quite a while enjoying the 360-degree panoramic views.

Alpine Sensation

After you’ve had your fill at the Sphinx Observation Deck, it’s time to go inside for the interactive displays. Step on the moving sidewalk that takes you through the history and the making of the Jungfrau Railway. See photographs lining the walls depicting the construction of the railway and honoring those who died making this feat of engineering. It leads to a multimedia display with a massive snowglobe as its centerpiece showcasing everything Swiss.

It is then time to enter the Ice Palace. The Ice Palace begins with a walk through an ice tunnel under a tributary of the Aletsch Glacier, Jungfraufirn. The halls of ice were made in the 1930 and are constantly maintained. Inside there are ice sculptures scattered throughout the 1000 square meters of tunnels.

Glacier Plateau

Once you emerge from the Ice Palace, it is a chance to walk outside in the snow at 3451 meters. Looking up at the Sphinx Terrace, the Glacier Plateau gives you another vantage point of the views spanning out below. This is where you can line up to take that selfie photo of you with the Swiss flag at the top of the Alps!

Afternoon: Hike the Eiger Trail

After you have had your fill of the altitude, make your way back down to Eigergletscher Train Station to trek the most iconic hiking trail in Grindelwald, the Eiger Trail. Another iconic hike in Switzerland is the 5 Lakes Hike in Zermatt: Check it out here.

The Eiger Trail begins at Eigergletscher Train Station and ends in Alpigen and takes about two hours to hike. (if you are like us stopping at every turn, expect 3 hours) This mostly downhill hike offers jaw-dropping views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley as you follow the Eiger North Face of Eiger Mountain. This massive wall is a popular spot for rock climbers so if you look closely, you may see someone scaling the wall.

Search for the Grindelwald Cows

We have hiked this trail twice in our lives and both times we’ve been treated to seeing the cute Grindelwald Cows that hang out on the mountain in the summer months. When hiking the trail, listen for the cowbells echoing through the valley and you just may come across a herd basking in the sun. They are friendly and photogenic so don’t be afraid to stop for a picture.

Continue walking to Alpigen where you’ll take the train back to Grindelwald.

Evening – Explore Grindelwald and have a spa

When you are finished with your hike 2-3 hours later, take a walk through the town of Grindelwald. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to either stock up on your hiking gear or grab a beer while taking in the views. We made our way back to Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald since we were on their half-board package which included dinner. (water, soft drinks, and alcohol are extra)

Tonight, pack an overnight bag for the next day of adventures. You are going to be spending the night at Grindelwald First.

What to pack for Grindelwald First:

• Warm clothes and layers as you will be hiking up to 2,265m (7,431 ft) altitude and staying overnight at 2166 meters.
• It can be wet and rainy, so a waterproof shell is a good idea. Even a small umbrella can come in handy.
• Hiking boots, wool socks, wool hat and gloves.
• Refillable water bottles
• Credit card or cash for the restaurant and bar.
• pack your toiletries and a change of clothes for the next day.
• It is casual dining at the top, so you can eat in your hiking clothes.
• There is free WiFi at Grindelwald First.

Pfingstegg Toboggan Run

Day 3 – grindelwald first.

Day 3 is a day you will never forget taking you to one of the premier scenic lookouts in all of Grindelwald. (Perhaps all of Switzerland) . Today you will check out of your hotel in Grindelwald, store your extra luggage at the hotel, and make your way to the First Gondola (Grindelwald Firstbahn) located in the heart of the village. Grindelwald-First is your ticket to adventure in Grindelwald. Read our full guide to The Complete Guide to Grindelwald-First in Switzerland

Where to Stay on Grindelwald-First

You will be staying at Berggasthaus First where there are dorm rooms, double rooms and family rooms available. Make sure to book in advance. Dinner and breakfast is included when on the half board package.

• To book your stay at the top of Grindelwald-First and for more information visit the  Berggasthaus First website.
• For more information on traveling to Grindelwald-First,  visit the official tourism website.

Lake Balchap Hike (Bachalpsee)

After taking the gondola up first thing in the morning, start hiking directly to Bachalpsee Lake(Lake Balchap). From the top of the Gondola, it is a 3km hike (one way to Bachalpsee) and takes about an hour. It is a fairly easy hike that is a gentle slope with only about a 150 meter (500 feet) elevation gain. If the weather is good, take your time to really enjoy the views from all vantage points.

Walk to the back of the second lake to sit on the bench. There is a journal sitting in a box where you can leave your impressions of Lake Bachalp and the mountain vista view. It is also our favorite spot for a photograph. If the weather is overcast, you won’t be able to see the mountains so you might as well, walk back because you will have another chance tomorrow as you will be staying overnight. So instead, get on with the adventures!

Before you begin your adventures, Restaurant First is a great place to grab some lunch. We had a raclette here and it was nice and filling. You can also fill up your water bottles at the fountain in front of the washrooms downstairs. So now that your bellies and bottles are full, it’s time for afternoon adventures.

If you are feeling really adventurous, you can hike to Grosse Scheidegg.

Grosse Scheidegg

From here, some people hike on to Grosse Scheidegg. It take at least 6.5 hours from Bachalpsee Lake, so make sure you have ample time. 

Grosse Scheidegg is a picturesque mountain pass in Switzerland that links the towns of Meiringen in the canton of Bern to Grindelwald in the canton of Bern. Nestled at an altitude of approximately 1962 meters (6437 feet), Grosse Scheidegg provides stunning views of the surrounding Alps, including the impressive Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn, and Eiger peaks.

Grindelwald First Adventures

Grindelwald has done an amazing job making things fun and easy for those hiking up to Lake Bachalp. One thing Dave and I always say after a hike is, “I wish I didn’t have to hike back.” Well, with the Grindelwald First Adventure Package, you can go down the mountain in style.

First Flyer – First to Schreckfeld

The First Flyer is a thrill ride starting at First Station and whizzing up to 84 km per hour to Schreckfeld Station. This zip line looks intimidating when you start, but once the shoot opens, it’s so much fun. I will admit, I was nervous, but my exact words when flying down the mountain were “it’s not so bad!”

First Glider

Sadly, the weather had turned the day we were there for First Glider and we didn’t get a chance to do this, but man it looks like fun! From Schreckfeld, the glider is pulled 800 meters backward at 72 km. You are then let go to glide up to 83 km per hour back to where you soar like an eagle flying headfirst.

First Mountain Cart

Described as a cross between go-cart and winter sled, a mountain cart takes you from Schreckfeld to Bort Station. Ride the path down the mountain as you take in the Grindelwald Valley and the Bernese Alps. With a low center of gravity, you’ll feel safe and secure as you twist and turn your way down.

If you have kids, you may want to stick around Bort Station so they can let loose in the Bort station playground. How many people can say they’ve been on an jungle gym on the side of a mountain?

First Trottibike Scooter

Now that you’ve gained your confidence on the mountain cart, it’s time for the highlight of your downhill excursion, riding a Trotti bike. What is a trotti bike? Well, it is a souped-up scooter with large tires and tough tread. Racing down the mountain is one of the coolest thrills you can do. The Trotti bike takes you from Bort all the way to Grindelwald.

Back up the First Gondola

There’s no time to relax in Grindelwald though because as you turn in your trotti bike you are heading back up the gondola to spend the night at First. As the crowds catch the last gondolas down you’ll be heading back up to enjoy first in solitude.

Berggasthaus First

Berggasthaus First is a guest house that offers dorm rooms (40 people) family rooms, double private rooms and multi bedrooms where you can have the mountain nearly all to yourself. Half board includes dinner and breakfast. There’s a beautiful outdoor terrace, bar, there are games and access to First Cliff Walk by Tisson. For more information visit the  Berggasthaus First website.

Grindelwald First Tissot Cliffwalk

If y ou didn’t do the First Cliffwalk by Tissot already, now is the time . Sunset is a beautiful time to be out on this steel walkway that reaches 45 metres (147 feet) out over the valley plunging 2000 meters to the depths below. This heart-pounding walk is one of the top attractions in all of Grindelwald and is not to be missed.

The great thing about staying overnight at First is that you won’t have to fight the crowds on the walkway. You start along the catwalk clinging to the side of the mountain and then walk up the circling spiral out to the platform leading out to the abyss. It is truly a spectacle.

Day 4 – Mannlichen Hike and Harder Kulm Interlaken

After a quiet night’s sleep at Berggastaus First, it is time for day 4 in Grindelwald. First thing in the morning, make your way out to Bachalpsee (Lake Balchap) again but this time for sunrise. We suggest staying the night here because Bachalpsee is an extraordinary view and you’ll want multiple chances to see it. Being in the mountains, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to give yourself two chances. We have been three times and only had good weather once.

Besides, it is a very busy climb, so if you hike to it at sunrise, you will have it all to yourself free from crowds. After your hike back, enjoy a delicious breakfast included in your stay before taking the gondola back down. You now have about two hours to get to your next hike.

Mannlichen Hike to Klein Scheidegg

From Firstbahn, make your way to the Grindelwald train station where you’ll use your Jungfrau pass to board the train to Grindelwald Terminal. This may seem familiar and that is because it is!

The terminal is the jumping-off point for both Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe and for today’s hike, Mannlichen to Klein Scheidegg. Hope on the Grindelwald – Männlichen gondola cable car. Spanning 6.2 km, the ride itself is worth the trip. The 10-seater cable car gets you up to the summit in 19 minutes.

Lunch at Berghaus Männlichen Hotel and restaurant

Männlichen has a restaurant with a terrace that serves lunch, breakfast, and dinner. It’s a great atmosphere and as it is everywhere in Grindelwald, a spectacular view.

The Männlichen Hike to Klein Scheidegg

From here the hike from Männlichen to Klein Scheidegg begins. This easy mostly downhill hike is one of the most popular hikes in Grindelwald. As you make your way down the 5km hike, views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains are constantly in view. The hike is only about 90 minutes, but we tend to stop a lot for photos and video, so allow for 2 hours.

Every hike in Grindelwald is postcard perfect, and the Männlichen Klein Scheidegg hike is no exception with striking mountain vistas surrounding you at each turn. The hike takes you to the Klein Scheidegg train station where you can board it back to Grindelwald Terminal for your next stop on the itinerary.

Wengen-Männlichen Railway

The Wengernalp Railway, also known as the Wengen-Männlichen Railway, links Grindelwald and the village of Wengen. This cogwheel railway is actualy from Kleine Scheidegg to runs from Lauterbrunnen, with stops in Wengen and Grindelwald along the way. This railway provides easy access for tourists to explore both Wengen and Grindelwald and enjoy the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Wengen is a car-free village known for its peaceful atmosphere and charming chalet-style buildings so it is worth popping into if you have the time. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger peaks.

Pfingstegg Rodelbahn – Toboggan Run

If you are up for more adventure in Grindelwald you can pass on the railway and hike and instead enjoy a toboggan run for a more leisure thrill ride.

Located at the Pfinstegg recreation area, the Toboggan run is an adventure for the whole family. It can be reached by a gondola from Grindelwald. The Pfingstegg cable car station is about a 15-minute walk from Grindelwald station.

 The 736-meter-long track snakes its way down the mountain with fun of curves, waves, jumps, and two spectacular spinning circles. It’s an exciting ride, where you can control your speed with the brake lever on the toboggan.

Harder Kulm Lookout in Interlaken

Interlaken is the largest town in the Grindelwald region and today you are going to get your chance to see it. From Grindelwald Terminal, board the train to Interlaken for the incredible views of Harder Kulm. Located at 1322 m above sea level, Harder Kulm is the towering mountain over Interlaken. The 100-year-old funicular railway is a treat to ride up the mountain. Make sure you take a seat right at the back of the funicular for views looking down all the way up. (take the front on the way down).

At Harder Kulm, there is a hiking and a scenic lookout platform that overlooks Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. You’ll also have a great view of the twin lakes of Interlaken, Lake Brienz, plus Lake Thun. While you are up there, have your dinner at the Panorama Restaurant. If you haven’t done so yet in Switzerland, now is the time for that genuine Swiss fondue. For more information on Harder Kulm, visit their website.

After you have taken in the views and have had a hearty cheese-filled dinner, spend the evening in Interlaken where you can stroll the waterfront of the Aare River. From here you can make your way back to the Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof where you left your bags two days earlier to check-in for your final night in Grindelwald.

How To Get Around Grindelwald

The best way to get around Grindelwald is by train. Purchase a Top of Europe Pass. With the Top of Europe Pass you can move freely between Grindelwald, Interlaken, Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, Grindelwald First, and Männlichen. Having the freedom to hop on and off the public transportation system, gondolas and trains makes travel through Grindelwald fast and efficient. You can purchase in advance at  Jungfrau Railways.  We highly recommend a  Top of Europe Pass  to allow flexibility for the weather. Passes start at 3 days for 239 CHF ($260 USD)

Getting Around the Jungfrau Reason

The Jungfrau Travel Pass is an excellent way to explore the Jungfrau Region as it offers unlimited travel on the network of transportation in the region. It is available for three, four, five, six, or eight consecutive days, and it includes travel to many popular attractions in the region.

Here’s how to use the Jungfrau Travel Pass:

• Purchasing the Pass : You can buy the pass online on the official Jungfrau website, at any Swiss Travel System sales point, or at any staffed train station in the Jungfrau Region.
• Using the Pass : Once you’ve purchased the pass, you can use it for unlimited travel on the Jungfrau region’s trains, buses, and boats within the validity period. It’s important to note that some mountain railways and cable cars offer only 50% discounts with the pass, not free rides.
• The train journey from Interlaken to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen
• The journey to Wengen and Mürren
• Travel to the mountain peaks of First, Schynige Platte, and Harder Kulm
• It also includes travel on the boats on Lakes Thun and Brienz.
• Validity : Your pass is valid for consecutive days, starting from the day you first use it. It is important to plan your travel days carefully to make the most out of your pass.
• Showing Your Pass : When you board a train, bus, or boat, or when you enter a cable car station, you may be asked to show your pass. Keep it handy at all times.
• Journey to the Jungfraujoch : The trip to the “Top of Europe” – the Jungfraujoch – is not fully covered by the pass. However, you can enjoy a discount of up to 50% off from Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch with the Jungfrau Travel Pass during the validity of your pass.
• Reservations : Generally, you don’t need to make reservations for trains or buses in Switzerland. But some popular tourist routes may require a reservation, or it may be advisable to make one during the high tourist season.

Remember to check the exact conditions and details of the pass at the time of purchase as they may have changed. And don’t forget to check the timetables for the various trains and boats before you set off on your travels to ensure they align with your travel plans.

How to Get Around Switzerland

If you are traveling throughout Switzerland, A Swiss Travel Pass is also highly recommended.

• Unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat
• Public transportation in more than 90 cities and towns
• Including mountain excursions: Rigi, Schilthorn, Stanserhorn, and Stoos
• Free admission to more than 500 museums throughout Switzerland
• Get your Swiss Travel Pass  Here.
• Two free informative apps to help plan your Switzerland journey are:  Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app  and the  Swiss Travel Guide app

You can purchase tickets from Grindelwald or Interlaken to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

How to Dress for Grindelwald in Summer

Even though the weather is warm and balmy in Bern or Zurich , be prepared for cold weather in Grindelwald. You’ll be going up above 3000 meters and you can expect snow and cold.

Dress in layers and pack winter clothing.

We saw people in shorts up at the top of Jungfraujoch and their trip was cut very short because it was too cold for them to stand outside. Even inside the ice palace is cold so wear at least a mid fleece layer and outer shell. You can always add or take away more layers as you go.

• We also had wool hats, sunglasses, and sturdy hiking boots.
• Wool socks are the best for hiking as even as you make your way down to warmer altitudes, wool whisks away moisture keeping your feet warm at the top, and cool and dry at the bottom.
• Pack refillable water bottles, lip balm, and sunscreen.
• A peaked hat is a good idea as well.

You have completed your four days in Grindelwald. If you follow this Grindelwald itinerary, you really will see the best of Grindelwald. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Switzerland today!

Read more about travel in Switzerland:

• The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
• 19 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland
• The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary
• The Complete Guide to Grindelwald-First in Switzerland
• Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do
• Stunning St. Moritz – Summer fun in Switzerland
• Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland
• The Perfect 3 Days in Zurich, Switzerland
• 20 Reasons to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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Grindelwald

The Eiger village of Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland lies embedded in a welcoming and green hollow, surrounded by a commanding mountainscape with the Eiger north face and the Wetterhorn. This mountainscape and the numerous lookout points and activities make Grindelwald one of the most popular and cosmopolitan holiday and excursion destinations in Switzerland, and the largest ski resort in the Jungfrau region.

Description

Thanks to its magnificent vista and the glacier which once reached right into the basin, Grindelwald attracted its first guests – primarily the English – from the end of the 18th century onwards. The actual breakthrough of Alpinism occurred in the mid 19th century, and local mountain guides climbed the peaks of the region with English tourists. The first ascent of the Eiger, the most difficult of Alpine mountains took place in 1858 (the north face only in 1938). Road and railway construction made Grindelwald much more accessible towards the end of the 19th century, which in turn also heralded the onset of winter tourism. The first cableway in the Alps was built here in 1908 on the Wetterhorn. And in 1912, a railway reached the Jungfraujoch  via Kleine Scheidegg ; today the «Top of Europe» still remains Europe’s highest railway station and a world-renowned excursion destination within permanent snow and ice.

The two ski regions of First and Kleine Scheidegg – Männlichen  – Wengen  offer 160 kilometres of pistes with around 30 lifts reaching up to an altitude of 2500 m. The Schilthorn  near Mürren, also part of the Jungfrau region ski arena, even reaches 2971 metres. But the most spectacular piste of the region is without doubt the Lauberhorn piste  near Wengen, popularised by the World Cup circus.

Choose from 80 kilometres of winter walking trails with views across seven four-thousand-metre peaks and majestic glaciers, as well as 60 km of toboggan runs, including, at 15 km, one of the longest toboggan runs  in the Alps from the Faulhorn into the valley. Naturally Grindelwald also has many further winter sports on offer.

There are 300 km of walking trails around Grindelwald. The high-altitude walk  from Grindelwald-First along the Bachalpsee  to the Faulhorn mountain hotel  and then on to the Schynige Platte ranks among the most beautiful hikes of the region. An easy walk  with fantastic views of the three, world-famous mountains of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau leads from the Männlichen up onto the Kleine Scheidegg.

*** Leading

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At night on the snow-covered mountain

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Travel information: Grindelwald

Destination.

Grindelwald Tourismus Dorfstrasse 110 Postfach 124 3818  Grindelwald +41 (0)33 854 12 12 +41 (0)33 854 12 10 [email protected] Website

• Hotel booking
• Holiday rentals
• Group houses groups.swiss
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Local Information

• Parks and Squares

Winter sports

• Snow report
• Wintersport activities
• Swiss Ski School
• Lakesides / Swimmingpools
• Climatic data
• Swisstravelcenter Hiking Maps
• Swisstravelcenter Mountainbike Maps
• Swisstopo Hiking Maps

Discover Bern Region

A brilliant one day in Grindelwald itinerary (2024)

Looking for a one day in Grindelwald itinerary? With my curated tips, you can plan the perfect day in the Swiss Alps.

Plan your trip to Grindelwald – Quick tips

👩🏻   Best guided tours in Grindelwald

• Jungfraujoch  (⭐️ 4/5)
• 3-8 days Jungfrau travel pass  (⭐️ 4/5)
• Mount First Gondola Ride  (⭐️ 4.5/5)

🏡 Where to stay in Grindelwald

• Luxury: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel (⭐ 9.0)
• Mountain view:   Chalet Pfyffer (⭐ 9.6)
• Budget:   Eiger Lodge Easy (⭐ 8.2)

Grindelwald is a small Swiss village enclosed by majestic mountains on each side. It’s beautiful all year round, but I was glad I visited in the spring because I got to experience both snow and emerald-green valleys with Alpine cows and thousands of blossoming dandelions.

If this was anywhere else than Switzerland , it would seem strange to write about snow adventures in June.

But that’s the beauty of the Swiss Alps; it can be 24 degrees in the valleys, and if you travel just 15 minutes north, you’ll find yourself in knee-high snow.

Ready for your one day in Grindelwald itinerary?

Let’s get to it!

🇨🇭 Read next: Jungfrau itinerary: 20 things to do in Jungfrau region

This post contains referral links for products I love. Adventurous Miriam earns a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through my links. I appreciate your support ♡ Learn more

One day in Grindelwald itinerary

Grindelwald is a great place for outdoor activities, and it’s one of those places you can visit all year round. In the winter months, there’s lots of snow and winter activities while summertime is perfect for hiking. 

Even if a day trip is a short visit, you’ll still have time to experience the nature, the fun adventures and have a good time in the Swiss Alps.

Visiting Grindelwald in 1 day gives you time to explore the top attractions:

🌼  One day in Grindelwald itinerary:

• Grindelwald First

Bachalpsee Lake

Grindelwald first cliff walk.

• First Flyer zip lining

Try trotti biking

Glacier canyon grindelwald – gletscherschlucht.

• Walk around Grindelwald town

A map of Jungfrau region

Here is a map of Grindelwald town and area. To zoom in and out, use the + and – sign in the corner.

As you can see, Grindelwald covers a large area. You’ll arrive with train in Grindelwald village and then you can take the cable car, train or hike to other beautiful places in the region.

How to get to Grindelwald

The best way to get to Grindelwald is by train. The Swiss rail system is extensive, leaves on time, runs every 30 minutes and it’s extremely convenient.

Most trains pass through Interlaken on the way to Grindelwald. The train journey from Grindelwald to Interlaken Ost covers around 9 miles (15km) and takes about 34 minutes. There are usually 33 trains per day with tickets starting from $5.66 if you book in advance.

I’ve mentioned this before, but taking the train in Switzerland is an adventure in itself! On every single train ride, I was hanging out the window, my hair blowing all over the place. Those cute Swiss villages and the Alps are exhilarating!

🚞 Get the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

With the Swiss Travel Pass you’ll get unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland!

Simply show the Swiss Travel Pass on your smartphone and you’re ready to explore Switzerland.

When to visit Grindelwald

The best time to visit Grindelwald is between June and October. With average temperatures of 20°C (64°F) and very little rain, it’s the perfect time to explore all the magical sights in this beautiful part of the Alps.

Grindelwald First has a different climate than Grindelwald village, because it’s located higher (2167 meters / 7109 feet above sea level).

So, while it can be sunny in the town, there might be snow at First. In fact, Grindelwald First has some of the best snow conditions for skiing in the Bernese Oberland. It has 47 sunny days on average per season.

😎 REMEMBER: To bring sunglasses to prevent snow blindness.

🏔️ One day in Grindelwald itinerary

To get the most out of your time in Grindelwald, make sure to start your day early. Preferably at dawn if you want to experience those amazing mountain views at Bachalpsee.

Take the cable car to Grindelwald First

Begin your day by taking the six-seater gondola cable car from Grindelwald to First. It passes through Bort and Schreckfeld. This 25-minute journey offers a stunning panorama while you float through the air in the gondola.

Grindelwald-First

Grindelwald-First (pronounced Feerst) is a mountain and top attraction in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland. You go hike here and have all sorts of fun adventures all year round.

I took the cable car from Grindelwald to Grindelwald First and from there it was a snowy hike up to the first stop.

Hiking in Grindelwald

Difficulty: easy

From Grindelwald-First, hike directly to Bachalpsee (Lake Bachalp) – the most beautiful alpine lake in the region and the main attraction at First, if you ask me. It’s particularly beautiful in the morning!

The Bachalpsee hike is an easy 3km (one-way) hike with a gentle slope and 150 meter elevation gain. It takes about 1 hour each way, plus the time at the lake, so count at least 3 hours to visit Bachalpsee lake from Grindelwald-First.

If you have more than one day in Grindelwald, check out these other hikes:

• Hike to Grosse Scheidegg (difficulty: easy)
• Hike to Eigergletscher (difficulty: medium)

switzerland itinerary

Once you’re back from your hike, head to the First Cliff Walk.

The First Cliff Walk is a suspended bridge-like structure that offers a thrilling experience as you walk along the side of the mountain, with incredible views of the scenery.

Despite being suspended, the walkway is sturdy and not wobbly so there’s nothing to worry about. The walkway is only a few hundred metres long, so it takes no more than 15 minutes to complete.

Time for lunch

You’re probably hungry about now, and there’s a restaurant (Berggasthaus First) a short walk from the First Cliff Walk.

If you’re up for it, you can also postpone lunch until you’re back in Grindelwald village where there are more restaurants to choose from.

🍲The top restaurants in Grindelwald include:

• Restaurant Belvedere (check reviews on Tripadvisor )
• Onkel Tom’s Hutte (great pizza – check reviews on Tripadvisor )

One day itinerary For Grindelwald

Getting from first to grindelwald.

Now, it’s time to head back down to Grindelwald village. You have several ways of doing that and I’ll go though the options below.

You can go by:

• Cable car (the same way you got there)
• The ZipRider (zip line)

Mountain carts

• Trotti bike

The Grindelwald ZipRider

The ZipRider is an 800-meter-long steel cable zip-line that goes from Grindelwald-First to the Schreckfeld intermediate station. From there, you can take a mountain cart or the cable car down the mountain.

You’ll fly down the mountain, over the ski runs below, at speeds up to 84 km/hour.

The price for a ride is 25 CHF.

The Mountain Cart is the perfect mix of go-kart and sledge. It takes you safely along a rough track from Schreckfeld to Bort, where you can thunder over hills for three kilometres.

It’s fun for the whole family and free safety helmets are provided. Suitable for children with a minimum height of 135 cm.

On the way down, I chose trotti biking, which is a bike without a saddle. So basically you just stand up while racing down the mountain road. I felt like yodeling all the way down, but I think the cows appreciated my silence.

The trip can be done in 25 minutes, but it took me closer to 40 because I stopped repeatedly to take photos of Alpine cows and mountain peaks.

Imagine biking down a mountain road, breathing in the fresh air, surrounded by hills and cute huts to the sound of Swiss cow bells.

That’s Grindelwald.

Look for Swiss cows

The most charming part of Grindelwald is without doubt the Swiss Alpine cows. Make sure to go for a walk in the meadows or look for them on the way from Grindelwald-First to Grindelwald. You can hear the bells from afar!

Once you’re back in Grindelwald and have had lunch, it’s time for another adventure. You’re going to the Gletscherschlucht, also known as the Glacier Canyon.

These series of tunnels, walkways and rocky outcrops lead you into the 250 million-year-old canyon where the Lütschine River roars through.

Inside the gorge, there is a 170 square meter spiderweb trampoline you can bounce on above the rushing water. You can even swing off the 300-meter high cliff on the canyon swing if you’re feeling particularly adventurous!

👉 Book your tickets to the glacier canyon and crystal museum here .

Things to do in Grindelwald village

After you’re done exploring the canyon, head back to Grindelwald village. It’s small and easy to walk around, and it has lots of cute houses. Although the village didn’t take my breath away like Lauterbrunnen did, I liked Grindelwald, especially the area surrounding it.

It’s got the Swiss Alps vibe 🚠

Where to stay in Grindelwald

If you’re staying the night in Grindelwald, these hotels are some of the best in town:

Boutique Hotel Glacier (⭐ 8.9) – Amazing view of Mount Eiger and only 350 m from the train station – this hotel has the perfect location. Rooms are modern and luxurious, and staff is very helpful. There’s spa and wellness, and hiking trails start at the hotel.  Check the latest prices here .

Hotel Lauberhorn (⭐ 8.6) This hotel has direct access to ski slopes, hiking and biking trails. Rooms have balcony and a beautiful view of the Eiger.  Check the latest prices here.

What to pack for Grindelwald

When I packed for Switzerland I didn’t expect to find snow. It was early June, after all. But there’s still snow at First and Jungfraujoch !

So – you might want to leave your mesh sneakers at home and bring waterproof boots and a warm jacket.

This is a packing list for visiting Grindelwald in one day:

• Sunglasses (to avoid snow blindness – important!)
• Hiking boots
• Warm clothes and layers (also in summer!)
• Fleece or zip jumper: I love my  Colombia fleece
• Warm puffer or lightweight puffer jacket
• Water bottle

Where to next?

Got a few extra days in the Jungfrau region? Make sure to explore the beautiful Lauterbrunnen waterfalls, the adventure capital Interlaken and Jungfraujoch – the top of Europe!

The magical Lauterbrunnen valley has no less than 72 thundering waterfalls. It’s the best place in Jungfrau.

Interlaken is the adventure hub of Europe. Discover the many fun adventures here, from river rafting to paragliding.

Visit the Top of Europe – Jungfraujoch on a magical train ride. It’s the highest train station in Europe (3,454 meters) and the views are spectacular!

💸 Switzerland travel insurance

I highly recommend having  travel insurance  because let’s be real — the last thing you want on your trip is for accidents to get in the way.

I recommend  Safety Wing  — they offer affordable prices, great coverage, and a reliable 24/7 on-call service.

🙋‍♀️ Grindelwald itinerary FAQ

How many days do you need in grindelwald.

If you’re planning a trip to Grindelwald, Switzerland, I recommend spending 1-2 days there.

In 1-2 days, you can have fun at Grindelwald-First, enjoy the stunning Swiss Alps, take a scenic train ride and visit popular attractions such as the Jungfraujoch or the Eiger Trail.

Is it better to stay in Interlaken or Grindelwald?

It depends on what you’re looking for. Larger adventure town with better train connections or small alpine town with hiking opportunities?

Here are the pros of staying in Interlaken vs Grindelwald:

How long do you need in Grindelwald-First?

Plan on spending 4-6 hours to make the most of your visit. That way you can fully enjoy the panoramic views and the outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining and mountain biking at Grindelwald-First.

Is Grindelwald Switzerland worth visiting?

Absolutely! Grindelwald is definitely worth visiting for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor activities, and charming town.

What are the best months to visit Grindelwald?

You can visit Grindelwald throughout the year, but the best weather is between June and October .

In July and August, the average temperature is approximately 20°C (64°F), and there is generally very little rainfall.

Why is Grindelwald Switzerland so famous?

Grindelwald is famous for its mountain landscapes and wide range of outdoor activities that include skiing, hiking, and more.

Also, Grindelwald has been a popular filming location for several movies like Star Wars Revenge of the Sith .

Is Grindelwald connected to Harry Potter?

Yes, Grindelwald shares name with the dark wizzard Gellert Grindelwald from from Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts.

The Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling often named her characters from real places, like Dursley, Flitwick, Bagshot, Lockhart, Runcorn and Dawlish.

She was also inspired by names on gravestones at Greyfriars kirkyard in Edinburgh . This is where she found the names Potter , Thomas Riddell and Crookshanks (Hermione’s pet cat) among others.

Many thanks to My Interlaken  for hosting me in Switzerland. Whenever I travel, there will always be full disclosure about whether my stay was hosted by a tourism board. And even if I’m on a press trip, my view will never be swayed one way or the other.

Read more posts from Switzerland

• Jungfrau itinerary: 20 things to do in Jungfrau region
• Amazing things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland’s adventure hub
• 7 Lauterbrunnen waterfalls you can’t miss
• A spectacular one day in Lauterbrunnen itinerary
• The Ultimate Guide to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• Visiting Spiez and Oberhofen castles in the Swiss Alps
• Where to stay in Interlaken

Miriam Risager is the founder of Adventurous Miriam. She has traveled to 62 countries in the past 18 years and has done most of it solo. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their travel adventures across the world.

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28 comments.

We’ve been to Switzerland for the first time this year, but it’s a country we would always happily return to! 🙂 Your pictures are so beautiful… snow in June? Haha, guess it’s the magic of such a high mountains and it’s so wonderful to enjoy snow on a sunny summer day!

I feel the same way! There’s so much to see and do in Switzerland and I feel I only scratched the surface this time. Next time, I’ll visit in high-summer when everything is fully bloomed 🙂

That cliff walk looks fantastic! Adding this to my list for sure!

It’s super fun! And at the end of the cliff walk, the floor is made of glass. Don’t look down 😉

Try the restaurant in the Sun Star hotel near the First Ski Lift, the steak is amazing and served on a hot stone sizzling.

Thanks for the tip. That steak sounds delish!

Miriam,that is an amazing article. I am brazilian, just moved to Bern, Switzerland 6 months ago. Tomorrow I am heading for a day trip in Grindelwald, and wasn’t sure about what to do once there, but landed here in your blog and got my head lighted 🙂

I’m so glad to hear that, Gabi! I hope you had fun in Grindelwald today and that the weather was good 🙂

The View is Fantatic, Grindelwald’s wonderful for travel with passion

Absolutely. Grindelwald is a stunner!

We are going to Grindalwald for the first time in a few weeks.I have waterproof walking shoes but am beginning to think that perhaps I should wear my hiking boots.Do not want to take both.What would you recommend.

Hi Susan, it depends on where in Grindelwald you’re going. If you’re heading to Grindelwald First or if you’re hiking, you should definitely bring waterproof waking shoes. There will most likely be snow, and lots of it. I went there exactly 1 year ago (also in May), and some of the hiking trails were closed due to snow.

Nice content and beautiful photos. I was in Grindelwald recently. It was a very beautiful place.

Sure is! One of the prettiest in Jungfrau.

Hi!! really nice post I was thinking about visiting this place and after reading you there is no wonder that I will, just a simple question, more or less how much do you pay for the cable car?? Really nice pics

Thanks for reading, Jorge! A regular return ticket Grindelwald – First costs CHF 58, but a fun way to return from First is by taking the trotti bike or the First Flyer (a giant zip line).

WoW!!! really admirable. Such an amazing post with bunch of charming pics. Sounds like something freaky cool. Thanks a lot for sharing your great thoughts through your amazing post. Looking forward for more from you.

Thank you, Revu, and thanks for reading! 🙂

Hi, love your photos and I am making a trip there next Summer. Do you mind sharing your itineraries in Grindelwald and how many days you spent there? I am thinking of 3D2N at Grindelwald and I love to explore those beautiful walks and the trotti bike. I do spend quite an amount of time stopping every now and then for photography too. Glad that I came across your posts. Thanks!

Hi Christine, I was based in Interlaken and spent a day in Grindelwald. You can check out my other posts from the area here: https://adventurousmiriam.com/switzerland/

Loving your posts…so so so detailed, especially for first timers like me to Switzerland. We are coming from Sydney end of May and planning to stay in Interlaken. We are also hiring a car, our main interest is to see the jungfraujoch and go around Grindelwald first to do the activities you have done above. Would you suggest staying ingrindelwald or interlaken? Also can we see Grindelwald on the way back from jungfraujoch? As in get off to see it and catch a later train back to interlaken. Also can we drive from interlaken to Grindelwald? Is it an easier drive? Sorry about the many qns

Hi Vithu, I’m so glad to hear that! Thanks 🙂

First, you should consider taking the train instead of renting a car. As far as I know you can drive from Interlaken to Grindelwald, but it’s much, much easier and might also be cheaper to take the train.

I stayed in Interlaken and visited the nearby villages and Jungfraujoch from there. I’d say though, that if you have no plan of doing activities in Interlaken, you’d be better off staying in Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen (the most amazing village with 72 waterfalls!). Lauterbrunnen is so magical and you can easily visit Grindelwald from there.

There are two routes to Jungfraujoch: either through Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. You can hop off and explore one of the towns for a few hours and then catch the next train down. Also, you can take one route up and another route back down. That’s what I did, just for fun 🙂

I hope this helped – otherwise feel free to ask more questions. I’m happy to help!

Hi Miriam, I super love your post – we will be in Switzerland this week! 🙂 From Zurich we will go straight to Grindelwald and stay there for 4 days. And we have 1 full day to explore Lauterbrunnen and Wengen – is that possible? Or should it be 1 day each? Plan is June 1, just explore nearby areas since we will arrive late afternoon. June 2 – Grindelwald First and Bachalpsee. June 3 – Lauterbrunnen and Wengen. June 4 check out and will be off to Lucerne for 5 days. Thank you!! 🙂

Aw, thank you Badette! And yes, what you mentioned is totally possible. Wengen is super small and so is Lauterbrunnen.

Sounds like a great itinerary, btw! Would have loved to visit Bachalpsee, but it was covered in snow when I visited. Have fun 🙂

Hello Miriam, very well written post! Had a quick question – I am planning to visit the Geneva Motor Show in March’20 with my son. Will it a good idea to visit Grindelwald & Jungfraujoch during our visit considering it will still be cold? Which other places would you suggest? Thank-you!

Yes, absolutely. You never know about the weather this time of year, but both Grindelwald and Jungraujoch are beautiful all year round.

„Jungfrau“ is NOT the name of the area … Jungfrau is a montain in the range of „Eiger-Mönch-Jungfrau“ located southwest of Grindelwald. When you have visited the Jungfraujoch, you have been squeezed between the Jungfrau (virgin) and the Mönch (monk), ;)). The Eiger is famous for his northflank, vertical nearly 3000 feet high. Over 70 climbers lost their lives until now. Suggestion: take a flight starting from Bern-Belpmoos to the Bernese Oberland and fly along next to these three montains. Unforgettable.

Great suggestion about the flight! It sounds like an amazing adventure 🙂 And while Jungfrau is the name of a summit, it IS also the name of the region: the Jungfrau region – https://jungfrauregion.swiss/en/summer/ I will include that in the post. Thanks for pointing it out.

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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!

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you.

Use the table of contents to skip to topics.

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.

Tip. To save money in using public transportation ( unlimited bus/train/boat rides and discounted cable cars/funiculars rides ), you may use:

• Swiss Travel Pass —best for a week-long or more extended Switzerland trip. Learn more about the Swiss Travel Pass here .
• Jungfrau Travel Pass —best for a 3 to 8-day visit to the Jungfrau region (Grindelwald included). Learn more about the Jungfrau Travel Pass here .

Do you need a place to stay? You can find the best hotel deals in Grindelwald here . The hotel browser has a map feature to help you find the most convenient/accessible hotels in Grindelwald.

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:

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:

• 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.
• 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:

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.

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:

• 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.
• 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: [email protected] | 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:

• Reasons to Visit Lauterbrunnen
• 3-Day Lauterbrunnen Itinerary
• 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

Public Transportation

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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Grindelwald, Switzerland: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide [2023]

From the second you step off the train in Grindelwald, Switzerland, you’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere a little magical. Soaring mountains so close you can reach out and touch them tower over the verdant floor of a valley sprinkled with timber-frame homes and winding mountain paths.

Planning a trip to one of Switzerland’s most beautiful towns? This ultimate travel guide to Grindelwald in the charming Jungfrau Region of Switzerland will help you explore like an insider. From the best things to do in Grindelwald to all the hiking spots and skiing destinations this town is known for, here you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Grindelwald, Switzerland

Make space on your devices for all the photos you’re about to take; everywhere you turn in Grindelwald, you’ll find views better than the last.

When you visit Grindelwald, Switzerland, simply strolling through town and taking in all the beauty is the most memorable highlight. However, Grindelwald is also a multi-faceted destination with a seemingly endless list of things to see and do, which makes it even more appealing to visitors. Hiking, skiing, paragliding, and more are just a few ways to get your adrenaline pumping.

Undeniably, travelers are drawn to Grindelwald by its big-name sights like Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe and adventurous activities at the peak of Grindelwald First, like ziplining and mountain gliding.

However, Grindelwald is so much more than just its biggest attractions. Family-run boutique hotels and innovative restaurants are now the name of the game in Grindelwald, transforming a traditional Swiss village into a true haven for well-heeled travelers looking for something unique.

Stay a while in the so-called “Eiger Village” in the shadow of the breathtaking Eiger Mountain. Not only is Grindelwald the charming Swiss village you’ve been dreaming of, but it’s also a convenient base for exploring the entire Jungfrau Region, which is among the country’s greatest and most picturesque treasures.

Read More: 20+ Best Things To Do in Grindelwald, Switzerland

Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?

The magical mountain town of Grindelwald is definitely worth visiting – it’s one of the best cities in Switzerland for travelers ! In fact, Grindelwald is by far the best base for exploring the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland, which is Switzerland’s most beautiful region.

The larger Jungfrau Region city of Interlaken might seem like a more obvious place to stay, but with so many of the region’s best activities located in Grindelwald, and this charming town’s great transportation, it’s the place to be to enjoy Jungfrau.

Jungfrau Travel Pass

If you’re heading to the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland, you’ll need the Jungfrau Travel Pass . Purchase passes online for unlimited access to the region’s trains, cable cars, and funiculars – trust us, you’ll need it!

How Many Days Do You Need in Grindelwald?

Most travelers need about three full days in Grindelwald to fully appreciate all this town and its surroundings have to offer , so make sure to save enough space for enjoying Grindelwald on your Switzerland itinerary. Three days will allow you to enjoy the best things to do in Grindelwald , including major attractions like Jungfraujoch, Schynige Platte, and Grindelwald First.

Travelers looking to enjoy skiing, trekking, and exploring nearby Swiss mountain towns should spend a few more days in Grindelwald to have time to fit in everything there is to do here – even up to a week if you’re looking to really dig in!

Things To Do in Grindelwald

1. visit the jungfraujoch – top of europe.

Grindelwald’s biggest attraction is undoubtedly the Jungfraujoch. Also known as the Top of Europe, Jungfraujoch is the highest train station in Europe, located on the Jungfrau Mountain and perched at 11,332 ft (3,454 meters), just above the impressive Aletsch Glacier .

Year-round snow and ice cover Jungfraujoch, making for a picturesque, festive scene and jaw-droppingly beautiful views no matter what time of year you visit. Speed down slopes in an inner tube, drink hot chocolate on the snow, or lounge on a beach chair with glacier views – there really is something here for everyone to do.

The ride on the Eiger Express up to Jungfraujoch’s iconic glass Sphinx Terrace and Ice Palace is an incredible start to an experience that keeps getting better and better. This is the most modern tri-cable gondola in the world, ferrying passengers up to the top of the Eiger glacier with stunning mountain views over Grindelwald the entire way. The 15-minute journey doesn’t feel like enough.

Jungfraujoch is a popular day trip destination for travelers all around Switzerland. Looking to save the hassle and book a day trip, transportation included? Check out these options:

• Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich
• Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip from Interlaken
• Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip from Lucerne

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2. Get an Adrenaline Rush at Grindelwald First

After you’ve visited Jungfraujoch, your next stop in Grindelwald has to be Grindelwald First. First (pronounced “fear-st”) is a minor summit of the Schwarzhorn mountain overlooking Grindelwald – take the cable car to the top for an incredible adrenaline rush among some of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery in the Swiss Alps.

Spend a day zipping, biking, and gliding up and down the mountainside at Grindelwald First. Here, you’ll find a great zipline and mountain glider, as well as downhill non-motorized go-carts and “trotti bikes” that take you whizzing down the mountainside. The zipline and mountain flier strap you in for a thrill, but the go-carts and trotti bikes actually ended up being my favorite activities on the mountain – they were much more “extreme” than their names imply!

Also found at the top of the cable car is the First Cliff Walk. Enjoy this see-through walkway and overlook for free, though if you’re afraid of heights, it can be a bit terrifying to be out over the cliff’s edge! The top of the cable car is also the start of the beloved Bachalpsee Lake Hike, an easy 6-km trail to a stunning Alpine lake.

Visitors can choose to take the cable car to the top and simply enjoy the view – this alone is well worth the journey, with incredible vistas over Grindelwald and the surrounding peaks of the Jungfrau Region. This cable car is included as part of the Jungfrau Travel Pass .

Read More: 24+ Best Places To Visit in Switzerland

Best Places To Stay in Grindelwald, Switzerland

• Hotel Pinte ($)
• Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort ($$)
• Boutique Hotel Glacier ($$ – $$$)
• Bergwelt Grindelwald Design Resort ($$ – $$$)

3. Taking in the Views at Schynige Platte

It’s all about the views at Schynige Platte, located just a short train ride from Grindelwald. Expect some of the most impressive views of Switzerland’s most famous mountains like the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau from this iconic mountain destination, accessible via a vintage railway that has been in service since the 1800’s.

Schynige Platte is a great destination for families looking for a relatively easy hiking destination with the pay-off of incredible views. Riding the vintage Schynige Platte Railway will be a highlight for kids, and this destination’s easier trails with stunning panoramas are accessible even for the little ones.

There’s even a playground and Alpine garden for those who are looking for a little less of a hike and more of a relaxed afternoon. For more ambitious hikers, go for the 6-hour trek from Schynige Platte to Grindelwald First – it’s one of the best hikes in the region. Eating at the restaurant at Schynige Platte is a delicious end to any hike.

The Schynige Platte Railway is included as part of the Jungfrau Travel Pass , as is the train from Grindelwald to Wilderswil, where you can catch the train to Schnyige Platte. Make sure to get your Jungfrau Travel Pass ahead of time online before your trip, and download the SBB Mobile app for instant access to train schedules.

4. Hike at M ä nnlichen

You’ll have no lack of great places to hike around Grindelwald. When even just strolling down the main street of town means enjoying awe-inspiring mountain views, you know you’re in for a real treat when you get out onto the trails.

One of the most popular hiking spots near Grindelwald is at Männlichen . One attractive feature that makes Männlichen stand out is that it’s accessible by a gondola (cable car!) from Grindelwald. What better way to start a hike than by enjoying the panoramic views from above?

I also love to recommend this as a hiking destination in Grindelwald because there are hikes at Männlichen that are doable for all levels of hikers. The Royal Walk is easy and family-friendly, and the overlook into the Lauterbrunnen Valley is impressive. More experienced hikers will love trekking to Kleine Scheidegg, though there are plenty of great options.

The gondola from Grindelwald to Männlichen is part of the Jungfrau Travel Pass , so make sure to grab that before your trip! You’ll also want to download the SBB Mobile app for instant access to train and gondola / cable car schedules as well.

5. Hit the Slopes

While Grindelwald has become an increasingly popular summer destination for its year-round adventurous activities and always-stunning views, it first became a popular destination due to its incredible skiing slopes. It’s still among Switzerland’s best resort towns.

Grindelwald boasts thirty different ski lifts that serve 51 different pistes, meaning there are nearly 100 miles (157 km) of skiing available to downhill ski enthusiasts. 12 miles (20 km) of cross-country ski trails, as well as a terrain park add to the ski experience.

Grindelwald’s slopes tend to be best for intermediate skiers, though there are plenty of great slopes for beginners as well. That makes this town the perfect destination for the majority of skiers , as well as families or groups traveling with skiers of different abilities.

More advanced skiers will probably want to opt for the more challenging slopes of nearby Männlichen and Schilthorn , both of which are easily accessible from Grindelwald’s train station.

Where To Stay in Grindelwald

Despite being a relatively small town, Grindelwald has forty different hotels, thirty-seven of which are relatively small, family-owned properties. This means that you’re in for a really great experience – think boutique accommodations and friendly, personalized attention – when staying here, no matter what Grindelwald hotel you choose.

These are the best hotels to choose from in Grindelwald.

Hotel Pinte ($ – $$)

Conveniently located in the heart of Grindelwald, Hotel Pinte is a simple yet refined hotel that checks all the boxes if you’re looking for a relatively affordable yet comfortable place to stay in Grindelwald. This 180-year-old property is an institution; the restaurant is one of the oldest in town, serving hearty Swiss classics in a charming dining room filled with pictures of the properties from generations past.

Reviews and Bookings: Hotel Pinte

Located along the main street in Grindelwald, Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort is a small, charming hotel with plenty to offer. Rooms are simple but comfortable and offer private balconies with mountain views. The hotel also has a fitness center and spa, as well as an excellent breakfast spread and two great restaurants that welcomes locals and visitors alike.

Reviews and Bookings: Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort

The Boutique Hotel Glacier is Instagram-famous for a reason. Incredible views of the Swiss Alps from private terraces with whirlpools make the hotel’s signature rooms truly unforgettable year-round. Modern design and excellent service at this luxury boutique hotel are just extras when the views are so breathtaking.

Even those who aren’t staying the night should plan on eating at the restaurant at the Boutique Hotel Glacier . The hotel is home to a Michelin-star restaurant with the best fine dining in Grindelwald and is known for its incredible seasonal menu and impressive wine stock – make sure to ask to take a peak at the wine cellar!

Reviews and Bookings: Boutique Hotel Glacier

Bergwelt Grindelwald Design Resort ($$$)

The Bergwelt Grindelwald Design Resort is one of Grindelwald’s larger hotels; the resort’s 90 rooms and suites make it quite large in a town known mostly for tiny boutique properties. Despite being one of the larger hotels in town, the resort’s cool, contemporary rooms and friendly service make it our top recommendation for travelers in Grindelwald.

In addition to its beautiful accommodations, Bergwelt Grindelwald Design Resort has one of the most impressive spas in town. Guests need to make a reservation for a time to use the spa, but spa use is included in a stay. The hotel also has a fantastic restaurant and lively bar, with beautiful outdoor seating perfect for the warmer weather months.

Reviews and Bookings: Bergwelt Grindelwald Design Resort

Places To Eat in Grindelwald

Grindelwald has a surprising array of great places to eat. You’ll find much more to eat in Grindelwald than fondue and schnitzel; a crop of impressive fine dining options await, meaning visitors are in for a culinary experience you would never expect to find in such a small mountain town.

These are our favorite places to eat and imbibe in Grindelwald, Switzerland.

The Michelin-star restaurant at the Boutique Hotel Glacier , Glacier is the best spot in Grindelwald for elevated Swiss cuisine. An obsession with using local and seasonally appropriate ingredients makes meals memorable; tasting menus are a highlight, though there’s something on the menu for everyone.

A historic wine cellar with an enviable Swiss and international wine collection is available for private events, but ask to take a peak, and you’re sure to be regaled with stories and details about Switzerland’s increasingly well-regarded wines and spirits.

Avocado Bar

There’s no true nightlife to speak of in Grindelwald, so Avocado Bar is the go-to if you’re looking for an after-dinner beer or schnapps. Expect this cozy bar to be full every day of the week, and the expansive patio space with mountain views is particularly popular in the warmer months. Avocado Bar also serves simple meals and bar food and hosts regular live music events during the summer.

Restaurant Fiescherblick

The sleek, modern dining room at the Fiescherblick Hotel & Restaurant and its adjoining patio space make Restaurant Fiescherblick one of the most stylish places to eat in town. The menu offers fine dining without being inaccessible for those just looking for a hearty meal. A chef’s choice menu makes the most of local ingredients while drawing inspiration from distinct culinary traditions.

Aspen Hotel Restaurant

The Aspen Hotel Restaurant is located on the hillside just outside of town, but it’s worth the five-minute drive to reach it. Fresh, inventive dishes make the seasonal menu shine, with favorites including venison and memorable vegetarian dishes. It was one of the best meals I had in Grindelwald; the views from the patio were the cherry on top of a fantastic meal.

Grindelwald Travel Tips

Use grindelwald as your base.

Grindelwald is hands-down the best base for exploring the awe-inspiring Jungfrau region of Switzerland, so settle down and plan on spending a few days here. It’s our number one recommendation for any Switzerland itinerary, really.

Some of the biggest attractions in the region are right here in Grindelwald: the Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe), the adventure sports and activities at Grindelwald First, as well as some of the best skiing, hiking, food, and accommodations in the area. Using Grindelwald as a base will make your trip hassle-free, while Grindelwald’s convenient public transportation makes it a breeze to enjoy the rest of Jungfrau.

Get the Jungfrau Travel Pass

If you’re planning on spending any amount of time in Grindelwald, you’ll need the Jungfrau Travel Pass ! This handy all-access transportation is truly a must if you’re visiting the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, whether you’re based in Interlaken, Grindelwald, or one of the other mountain towns in the region .

The Jungfrau Travel Pass is valid for anywhere from 3 to 8 days and includes access to funiculars, trains, and cable cars in the region. It’s the most cost-effective and hassle-free way to enjoy the Jungfrau Region, and it pays for itself with just a few uses.

While the Jungfrau Travel Pass does not include the entire journey to the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, Jungfrau Travel Pass holders get a significantly discounted rate on the journey!

Purchase the Jungfrau Travel Pass Online: Jungfrau Travel Pass

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Download the SBB Mobile App

This is a travel tip whether you’re traveling to Grindelwald, Zurich, or any part of Switzerland: the SBB Mobile app is an absolute must! This easy-to-use mobile app offers up-to-date information on train schedules throughout Switzerland. It includes a fantastic system that allows users to input their current location and desired destination and instantly see travel options.

The Swiss train system is incredibly easy to navigate, but I wouldn’t want to do it without the SBB Mobile app. Consider it a requisite of your trip.

Push Yourself Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Some of the best things to do in Grindelwald are quite adventurous – maybe more than you’re used to. Paragliding, ziplining in Grindelwald First, go-carting down the mountainside, and more are among the favorites that made our travel experience one that we’ll never forget.

Of course, stick to the spas, viewpoints, and mountain hikes if you wish, but if I can give one recommendation for your time in Grindelwald it is that you push yourself outside of your comfort zone! You might be surprised to find that these adventurous experiences may become the highlight of your time in Grindelwald.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

15 Awesome Things to Do in Grindelwald, Switzerland

• September 4, 2020
• Jungfrau Region , Visit Switzerland
• basel hikes , bussalp , eiger trail , first , grindelwald , grindelwald glacier , grosse scheideg , kleine scheidegg , männlichen , paragliding in switzerland , pfingstegg

Grindelwald is a fairyland for adventure seekers, nature lovers, hikers, mountaineers, families, and many others. It is a Disneyland for people who love mountains, who love the Swiss Alps, who love nature and spotless air. Grindelwald features mountain passes, mountain stations, multiple mountain peaks, dozens if not hundreds of different hiking trails, restaurants, beautiful hotels, cozy and fascinating Swiss architecture, glaciers, canyon – Grindelwald has it all. There are so many things to do in Grindelwald for everyone’s taste, and sometimes it’s tough to find your itinerary if you’re short on time.

Grindelwald is perfect for a one day trip for the whole weekend and even a week – you will find what to do each day, no worries. There is so much to see, and you will be surprised how each place is more beautiful than the other, and you will always feel a little tingling need to discover another trail, another valley, and another peak.

I have visited Grindelwald multiple times, and each time I find something new, I sometimes see things that I get astonished that they are in Grindelwald, not in some other location 100 kilometers away.

Let us discover beautiful Grindelwald and many many things you can find and do there.

Table of Contents

First – what a crazy name for a peak in Switzerland, but actually in Switzerland, you must pronounce it Feersht.  First is a mountain station with a famous cliff walk at 2,167 meters with exclusive views to the glaciers right in front of you.

How to Get to First

There are two ways to get to First – if you feel a bit more adventurous, you can hike up there (I have done this hike from Grindelwald – beautiful views all hike long) in 2-3 hours, or you can take a gondola from Grindelwald.

First gondola station is in the village center, address: 3818 Grindelwald. The ticket up to the peak and back will cost you 64 CHF, but you can get discounts if you have the Swiss Pass, or you can buy different combo tickets with various activities up there for a higher price.

Things to do in First, Switzerland

On first, you will find a giant mountain station with a huge restaurant (the restaurant has a terrace outside and tables inside); a souvenir shop; a sporting goods shop (Intersport) – perfect if you get to bring your hiking cap or hiking poles; a very cozy hut called Bärgelegg Hütte where you can get a cup of coffee and some desserts. 

Oh, not to forget, if you’re interested in the hut to hut hiking, you can check my experience here . I fall in love with doing these hikes between beautiful and cozy huts offering delicious traditional cuisine, and a nice shelter for resting.

First has a very famous cliff walk which is fitted on the rocks, and you are actually walking right next to the cliff with dozens of meters of nothingness below you. The walk is trendy, and you will probably walk with a massive crowd of people, but no worries, the bridge is strong enough. The whole walk is 3-5 minutes with a lovely ending where you can take fascinating pictures of glaciers which are on the other side of the valley in the mountains in front of you.

Later on, you can go and try out the First Flyer – it is an 800-meter long steel cable from First to Schreckfeld. You will be put in a harness and will fly up to 84km per hour down the mountain. It is a perfect thrill.

Not enough?

You can find the First Glider – and fly down like a bird. Literally, like a bird, because you will be put your face in the front, legs back – superman pose. Like this, you will reach up to 84km/h and enjoy the views to meadows below you.

2) Grosse Scheidegg

Grosse Scheidegg is a mountain pass at 1962 meters right next to Grindelwald. It is a little brother of Kleine Scheidegg (I know, names are confusing here) – the mountain pass on the other side of Grindelwald.

How to reach Grosse Scheidegg?

You can reach Grosse Scheidegg in two ways: by bus or on foot.

I highly recommend you to hike up there because the hike goes right next to substantial tremendous mountain walls, and you as well will get a very close view of the glaciers up there in the mountains. If you decide to hike, you can start right in Grindelwald or go to the parking next to Hotel Wetterhorn , address is Obere Gletscherstrasse 159, 3818 Grindelwald. There is a huge parking lot where you can leave your car.

The hike from there to Grosse Scheidegg will take you around 2 hours . Elevation gain is approximately 800 meters so have lots of water and good hiking boots. Some parts are pretty steep, so take your time and enjoy the surroundings.

If you decide to take a bus, the bus is leaving in the central station, and it will cost you 25 CHF, if you would like to return on a bus as well, then the price is 50 CHF, but I really recommend walking back. It will be much more comfortable than hiking up, and in 2 hours, you will get back to Grindelwald. A note: bus goes up only in the summer season ; in winter, there’s too much snow, and the only way to go up there maybe only with snowshoes.

Things to do in Grosse Scheidegg

On Grosse Scheidegg, you will find a mountain hotel with a nice restaurant where you can try different swiss foods: raclette (a delicious Swiss cheese), fondue (a cheese dream), and many others. It has a lovely terrace with great views back to Grindelwald.

Next to the hotel, you will find a small kiosk that offers some snacks and coffee: so if you are not ready for the full meal, just sit down and have an espresso. I have done that: espresso is 4 CHF up there.

A little bit lower than the hotel, you will see some old small buildings: one of them has an open fridge where you can get local cheese and other products, so if you really want some mountain food – that is a perfect place to get it.

One neat thing you can do is a hike to First . There’s a lovely hike with very little elevation change, so it is suitable for everyone. In one hour or 1h 30 minutes, you can reach the First dreamland.

If you feel adventurous: you can hike to Schwarzhorn – it is a mountain peak at 2928 meters. Such a hike would be at least  2 hours to the top, so if you feel like doing it, prepare accordingly.

And the last thing: as I mentioned, it is a mountain pass, so if you want, you can get to the other side of the mountain to another village called Meiringen . That village has a road which leads to one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Switzerland – an iconic Grimselpass. So that can be a perfect weekend adventure: Grindelwald – Grosse Scheidegg – Meiringen – Grimselpass.

3) Kleine Scheidegg

Kleine Scheidegg is a mountain pass next to Switzerland reachable only by train or on foot. In winter – with snowshoes.

Kleine Scheidegg stands at 2,061 meters and is a very well developed tourist destination. You will find many many things up there, and hours will pass by very fast in that beautiful location.

How to get to Kleine Scheidegg?

As mentioned before, you can reach Kleine Scheidegg in two ways: by train or on foot.

The train leaves in Grindelwald Grund train station (Grund is just 5 minutes away from Grindelwald center) every few minutes and goes up to Kleine Scheidegg in 30 minutes. The ticket cost one way is 27 CHF. The train ride is entertaining, you will get into this narrow cozy train which goes slowly up the mountain. I must mention: it is a cogwheel train, which is even more fun. You will get fascinating views to Eiger mountain, Grindelwald, and you can even snatch a perfect picture of the whole train turning up the hill.

The second way, if you have more time, is hiking to Kleine Scheidegg . You will have to gain more than 1 kilometer in altitude, so be ready, have enough water, food, and right hiking clothes with boots. The hike will take you around 2-3 hours.

You will cross beautiful meadows with cows, go by a couple of restaurants (if you feel tired, you can always power up there), and in an hour or so, you will start to see your final destination: the buildings of Kleine Scheidegg.

There’s actually one more enjoyable way, which you would enjoy a lot: go with the gondola up to Männlichen from Grindelwald and hike down to Kleine Scheidegg. It is a gorgeous panorama hike at altitudes higher than 2 kilometers. The views and the aura of that place are really inspiring. The hike to Kleine Scheidegg will take you a bit more than 1 hour, it is 5 kilometers and always down.

Things to do in Kleine Scheidegg

Kleine Scheidegg is a very well developed mountain station with souvenir shops, a restaurant, and a hotel.

It is a perfect place to have your mountain lunch and enjoy the views of Eiger glacier, which stands right in front of the mountain train station.

If you feel like spending more time and maybe the whole night, check out the exclusive Hotel Bellevue des Alpes – it just a minute away from the train stop.

Have a short hike up to Fallbodensee , it is a little lake and has a very nice art installation right next to it.

If you came up to Kleine Scheidegg with the train, you could hike down back to Grindelwald . It is a beautiful 2-hour hike. Easy and enjoyable as it always goes down.

Overall I recommend to simply enjoy the views to the mountains, glaciers, spend some time in a local restaurant, and have at least 30 minutes hike in the surroundings – it is an exceptional nature place.

4) Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch is a very, very special place – it is a mountain station at 3,454 meters altitude, which feels like the top of Europe.

There you can spend the whole day in a winter wonderland which has shops and restaurants at one of the highest altitudes in the whole of Europe.

How to get to Jungfraujoch?

You can get to Jungfraujoch only by train . Unless you are a very, very experienced mountaineer – you can reach it in other ways, but that’s another story.

Trains are leaving every hour from Grindelwald terminal. The ticket will cost you 214 CHF back and forth. That is one of the most expensive train rides in Switzerland, but it is really worth it. You should check out the latest prices and discounts right here (because the price is changing almost every year): Jungfraujoch tickets .

The train ride will take you around 1 hour . First, you will reach the beautiful Kleine Scheidegg train station: change the train and start your trip to the mountain. After a few minutes, you will enter the mountain. Yes, you will be quite a while inside the mountain . That is an ancient tunnel, which was a pretty much engineering miracle back in the days. So the train goes up and up inside the mountain until you reach the Jungfraujoch stop. You are welcome!

Things to do in Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch is a colossal mountain station with restaurants, shops, chocolate shops, souvenirs, ice rooms, and so on. Let us discover what you can find there.

Ice palace – you will enter into the rooms of ice. The ice palace is a labyrinth with rooms in ice. Yes, you will be the whole time inside the real ice. It is like those ice hotels in Norway. You will see many ice sculptures and other art installations along the way.

Alpine sensation – it is an art/historic installation dedicated to crazy brave miners who dig the tunnel and all the visionaries who saw the touristic potential of this place.  You will get to know the history, the engineering, and all other small details of the wonder of this mountain.

Sphinx observation deck – no need to mention that such a place is perfect for star exploration. There’s no light pollution, and you are incredibly high, so yes, Swiss have an observatory up there. The crazy fast lift will take you up there, and you will get the exclusive views to the mountains and multiple peaks.

Snow fun park – if you go outside, you will get into a small snow fun park where you can enjoy the rides on the snow. It is perfect for families and for people who miss the snow in the middle of summer. Why not, right?

Highest shops in Europe – Jungfraujoch has the highest chocolate and watch shop in Europe. At 3,454 meters altitude, you can get exclusive tastes of chocolate and top-notch quality watches.

Mönchsjochhütte – it is a Swiss mountain hut just 45 minutes away from Jungfraujoch mountain station. It is the highest-altitude services hut in Switzerland. You can spend the whole night up there at 3,650 meters altitude and if you are adventurous enough – continue to the Jungfrau peak at 4,158 meters. It is a high altitude hike, so better to have a mountain guide with you. Some people even say that Jungfrau mountain is the birthplace of the mountain guide profession. Isn’t that awesome?

Restaurants – To this day, if anyone asks me what the most exciting meal I ever had (or meal location) was – it was definitely the fondue I had in Jungfraujoch restaurant with pretty much the most unique views to the snowy mountains in the middle of summer. If you are looking for something exclusive – that is definitely a place to have a once in a lifetime meal with your family or friends.

Jungfraujoch is a special place full of beautiful surprises. Go there and have the time of your life.

5) Männlichen

Männlichen is yet another mountain peak next to Grindelwald. It stands at 2,343 meters altitude. Männlichen has exclusive views of both valleys: Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.

How to get to Männlichen?

Männlichen is reachable by gondola or on foot . By gondola, it is reachable not only from Grindelwald but as well from Wengen – one of my favorite places for hiking .

The ride from Grindelwald starts in Grindelwald terminal, and the mountain gondola will take you up to Männlichen in 20 beautiful minutes with exclusive and fascinating views. The gondola goes every minute, so you won’t miss it. The ride up and down will cost you 64 CHF.

If you have time and feel strong enough, you can hike up to Männlichen, but bear in mind, the whole hike can take 3-4 hours, and you will have to gain around 1,400 meters in altitude. That is a pretty demanding hike, so be very well prepared, have enough water, food, and right hiking clothes.

Things to do in Männlichen

Once you reach the Männlichen mountain station, go on the royal walk . It is a lovely walk on a narrow path up to the top where you will get onto the viewing point (the top platform looks like a crown), hence the royal walk. The walk will take you 10 minutes. It is a perfect place to take these Instagram pictures.

Afterward, you can go back to the Männlichen mountain house and enjoy some local food with views of Lauterbrunnen valley. Want to spend a night up there? They have a hotel as well.

Try the Lieselotte trail – it is a perfect family hike back to Holenstein (middle station between Grindelwald and Männlichen). It is a 1h 30 minutes hike with many things to see and try: you will see many wooden cows, and you will even have a possibility to milk a cow. Enjoyable and educational hike.

And the best thing you can do is the panorama hike to Kleine Scheidegg – it is probably one of the best panorama hikes in the whole of Switzerland. Really. It is a 5 kilometers hike (around 1 hour) with fascinating views to a mountain pass which has a train station, and the train can take you back to Grindelwald. This trail is a perfect place to appreciate the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

6) Lower Grindelwald Glacier

As Grindelwald has it all for mountain lovers, it has a glacier as well. It is pretty visible from the village, but you can get closer to it if you wish. Glaciers have this inner power, which attracts people to go and see it or even touch it.

How to get to Grindelwald glacier?

You should go first to the parking of Pfingstegg right here: Rybigässli 25, 3818 Grindelwald. You can leave your car right there and start hiking up to Berghaus Bäregg  – it is a mountain hotel with a restaurant.

The hike up will take you around 2 hours, and you will gain about 800 meters in altitude, so be ready for this. Have enough water, food, and the right hiking clothes.

Once you reach the hotel – you will get the exclusive views to this magnificent glacier.

If you have enough power and will, you can continue your hike even more and go up, but be very careful and do not go on any unknown paths or places where it can be dangerous. Ice is moving all the time, and the water stream can be pretty fast up there. Under any circumstances – do not go onto the glacier.

Be safe, take as many pictures as you can – these glaciers are losing their size every year. It is a pity, but you can still enjoy it.

7) Pfingstegg

First, you would need to get to Pfingstegg (it is another item on the list). You can get up there with a gondola for 28 CHF (both ways). You should go first to the parking of Pfingstegg right here: Rybigässli 25, 3818 Grindelwald.

Or you can hike to Pfingstegg – this would take you 1 hour.

Things to do in Pfingstegg

On Pfingstegg, you will find an excellent Pfingstegg restaurant with a fantastic view of Grindelwald and mountains all around. It is a perfect place to have some Swiss meals like Fondue or Raclette.

If you want more fun, try the famous Toboggan run where you can slide down the mountain. It is an entertaining activity in summertime (as skiing is not possible at that time). It is perfect for families with children, as it is an entirely safe activity—price for adult: 6 CHF, for children from 2 to 4 CHF per ride.

You can try the Fly line . It is a fun 350 meters fly with a speed of 8-12 km/h.

As everywhere in Grindelwald, Pfingstegg has some wonderful hiking paths . The most popular one is to the Berghaus Bäregg,  where you will get very close to the local glacier. The hike would take you around 1 hour. Other destinations: Berggasthaus Marmorbruch, Hotel Wetterhorn, or back to Grindelwald.

8) Panoramaweg

This activity I propose to anyone who is visiting Grindelwald just for an hour or so. As well as perfect for evening walks.

Grindelwald has a very fine Panoramaweg, which gives perfect Grindelwald views, and at night, it is very nicely lit, so it’s even more fun in the late evening. It is a short walk which you can start in the town center, head to the First gondola station, and walk up the mountain. There you will find this cozy path that overlooks Grindelwald and gives you perfect Instagram shots.

Easy, fast, comfortable, great for families.

9) Skiing in Grindelwald

Oh yes! I must confess to you, I think, Grindelwald has pretty much the best skiing resort in all Switzerland. I love it. It has wide, smooth skiing slopes, many restaurants and coffee places on the mountains, and much much more.

I have written a whole skiing resort report, you can check it out right here . Here you will find information about prices, the best slopes, and much more.

This resort has it all: black slopes, fast tracks, red slopes, places for children to learn, and pretty much everything you wish for in a skiing resort.

It has 206 kilometers of skiing slopes – so perfect for a few day skiing trips. You won’t get bored, trust me.

How to get to the resort? You can start in Grindelwald or Wengen. There are new lifts that will take you up to Männlichen (from Wengen side) or to Kleine Scheidegg (from Grindelwald side) and let the fun begin!

10) Snowshoeing

Fancy a hike on the snow? Well, then you are in a perfect place. Grindelwald is a winter wonderland when the snow sets on the roofs of old houses, and you must do a snowshoe tour in the surroundings.

Where to get snowshoes in Grindelwald?

There are many sporting good shops in Grindelwald which will rent you snowshoes and poles for a very reasonable price. Try Intersport or GrindelwaldSPORTS shop where they have plenty of snowshoes. Prices for a day vary from 20 to 40 CHF.

Where to do the snowshoe tour in Grindelwald?

I think the two best places are Kleine Scheidegg or Grosse Scheideg. They have perfect snowshoe paths prepared for you.

If you go to Kleine Scheidegg – you will actually walk inside the skiing resort, but you shouldn’t worry, your paths do not cross that often, but if you get on the skiing slope, be careful and attentive, because some people go speedy downhill.

If you go to Grosse Scheidegg – it is calmer and with many fewer people.

Other destinations: Bussalp, First, Waldspitz, and many others. Ask for more information in the tourism information center, they will give you maps with all the possibilities.

11) Eiger trail

Eiger trail is named after a very famous Eiger mountain, which is almost 4 kilometers high. You will see Eiger mountain straight away once you come to Grindelwald, it will be in front of you.

I have finished the Eiger trail , and it is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Jungfrau region. You can start the hiking trail right in Grindelwald or Grund.

The hike is around 3 hours long, and you will gain about 1,400 meters in altitude . So it is not an easy hike, rather demanding and physical. In the beginning, you will cross some woods and walk right next to the local houses, but later on, you will get to utterly rocky terrain, and this will last till the end of the trail. As your hike progresses, there sits an Alpiglen restaurant where you can take a break and enjoy delicious Swiss cuisine.

In the end, you will get perfect views of the glacier and the valleys.

Once you are finished, you can hike down to Kleine Scheidegg and take the train back to Grindelwald or walk the whole distance back, but then your hike will be 5-6 hours.

12) Bussalp

Bussalp is a very nice restaurant up in the mountains. And guess what – you can get there by bus. So it is a comfortable peasy experience with no need to sweat for hours.

The bus will get you there in less than 30 minutes, and you will get to a beautiful place with outstanding views—ticket price back and forth: 47.60 CHF and a 50% discount with a Swiss pass.

Things to do on Bussalp

On Bussalp, as mentioned before, you will find a great restaurant with local foods and friendly staff.

Later on, you can head on your hiking adventure. There are many hiking routes around, but if you are feeling powerful, you can hike to Faulhorn – a peak at 2681 meters. The hike up would take you up to 2 hours.

Are you a daredevil? Then you can do some mountain biking over there.

And the last but not least thing is sledding. In wintertime, you can hop on a sled and go down a magnificent and safe slope. It is a winter dream for many kids and, of course, for grown-ups.

13) Hiking Various Trails

Well, I must not mention, but Grindelwald is fantastic for hiking. Dozens of hiking trails, all very well prepared, very well maintained and marked. You can spend a whole week there trying something new each day.

I have prepared the best hikes in Grindelwald where you can find a list of awesome hikes you can do in a region. Grindelwald is my favorite hiking region, as there is a variety of hiking trails, from beginners to expert levels. You can even hike with your kids in some hikes.

Just to mention a few:

Kleine Scheidegg – a beautiful 2 hours hike to a spectacular mountain pass.

First – 2 hours hike to a mountain wonderland with multiple activities on the top.

Grosse Scheidegg – a 2 hours hike right next to enormous mountain walls.

Trust me, if you love hiking – it is a place to visit. You won’t be disappointed and instantly will fall in love with the impressive Swiss Alps.

14) Paragliding

If you come to Grindelwald in the summertime, look up to the sky. Do you see them? Many of them? Yes, these are paragliders.

Paragliding is very, very popular in Switzerland and they are very well prepared to provide you this experience in the mountains.

The views, the thrill you are going to get… It is hard to compare with anything else.

There are many places where you can start your paragliding experience, and professional paragliders will take care that this experience is safe and full of good memories.

15) Shopping in Grindelwald

Shopping in Grindelwald is not for ones who are looking for some Louis Vuitton or Versace stuff, but it is a paradise for active mountain people. You will find so many cool jackets, hiking shoes, caps, souvenirs, hiking trousers, and much more in the local shops.

I always hop into some of them and just check out the latest trends and new stuff. For me – it is a paradise. If some people can spend hours in video games stores or cosmetics shops – I can spend hours in hiking shops.

All the shops start right next to the Coop market, and on the shopping street, you will find Intersport, Mamut (swiss brand), GrindelwaldSPORTS, Bernet Sport, and many more. If you are looking for a way to look cool in the mountains – check it out.

Figuring the Logistics Before Heading to Grindelwald, Switzerland

How to Get to Grindelwald (From Major Cities)

Grindelwald sits in the middle of Switzerland, and it is very well connected with trains and has a perfect road connection all year long.

You can easily reach Grindelwald from the following major Swiss cities:

• Zurich to Grindelwald: 137 km, 2 hours by car or train.
• Basel to Grindelwald: 166 km, 2 – 3 hours by car or train.
• Geneva to Grindelwald: 234 km, 3 – 4 hours by car or train.

There is a well-connected train line from every major city that goes directly to Grindelwald every 20 – 30 minutes. You will probably have to change trains in Interlaken, but trains from Interlaken goes very often.

Now, if you are traveling in Switzerland longer than two days, it is cheaper and convenient to get the Swiss Pass . Three days pass costs 232 CHF, and you will get unlimited trips around Switzerland for three days.

Parking in Grindelwald

If you are visiting Grindelwald by car, you will find quite many parking spaces in the village, but most of them are paid. Prices vary a bit, but the most expensive one is right in the town center next to the Coop shopping center in Dorfstrasse (it is very convenient, you will be straight in the center close to all restaurants and shops); cheaper ones are a bit further away. The biggest one is Grund Grindelwald parking in Grundstrasse, where you can park your car for 5 CHF the whole day. From that parking, you will reach Grindelwald town center in 5-10 minutes.

There are few more public parking spaces, but they are in further points of Grindelwald:

• next to hotel Wetterhorn – the perfect starting point for hiking to Grosse Scheideg;
• next to Gasthaus Gletscherschlucht – there is a lovely hotel/restaurant, and you will find the entry point to the Glacier canyon;
• Pfingstegg parking where you can get tickets for a gondola ride up to Pfingstegg and glaciers.

Public Transport in Grindelwald

Once you are in Grindelwald, the most convenient way to travel around are public buses.

Quite a few hotels will give you a free bus ticket to get around in the village, but if you wish to go higher in the mountains with a bus, you should get a specific ticket.

In the picture above, you see a road that the local buses use to get to Grosse Scheidegg – a fun bus ride.

Buses in Grindelwald can take you to pretty fascinating places in altitudes close to 2,000m, the most amazing ones are Grosse Scheidegg , Bussalp, and Waldspitz . There you will find captivating views of the mountains and great local restaurants with delicious Swiss food. The perfect combination – get up there with a bus and hike down to Grindelwald – this way, you will get the full mountain experience.

Check out the prices of bus connections on Grindelwald buses.

FAQ about Grindelwald

What is the altitude of grindelwald.

Grindelwald is at 1034 meters altitude and surrounded by beautiful mountains up to 4000 meters.

When does it snow in Grindelwald?

Winter begins quite early in Grindelwald and you can already experience some snow in early October. In the winter Grindelwald is full of snow and the skiing season is open in mid-December and lasts till April. You can check my Jungfraujoch ski resort review .

Where to stay in Grindelwald?

Grindelwald has dozens of hotels for everyone. From simple ones to 5-star hotels. You can check all the options right here: Grindelwald hotels .

How far is Grindelwald from Zürich?

Grindelwald is only 139 kilometers away from Zürich and you can reach it in 2 hours by car or by train .

How to get to Grindelwald from Interlaken?

The easiest option is by train, and the trip will take you only 29 minutes.

Is Grindelwald car-free?

No, you can go there in your own car and park it in many parking lots. It is not like Zermatt or Wengen , where you can get only by train or on foot.

What language is spoken in Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is in the german speaking part of Grindelwald, but many locals speak a quite distinct Swiss German dialect. But do not be afraid if you do not understand it at first, the locals will switch to High German once they hear that you are not local. English is as well very widely spoken in Grindelwald.

When is the best time to go to Grindelwald?

All of the things I mentioned you can do in Grindelwald, you can pretty much do all year long (of course skiing is only possible in winter and early spring).

In the summertime, it can get pretty hot in Grindelwald and it is perfect for long hikes in the mountains.

In winter – skiing and snowshoeing are perfect activities.

In autumn and spring – you can still hike, but some of the trails can be closed. But you can still use all the gondolas and visit First, Pfingstegg or Kleine Scheidegg. It is immensely beautiful up there in spring or early autumn.

If you want a full Swiss experience: mountains, cheese, chocolate, old swiss architecture, cows, mountain trains, snow (all year round) and many more things – go straight to Grindelwald. You will not be disappointed – so much to see and do.

My tip: spend at least 2-3 days up there. Wake up in the morning, look at the mountains (most hotels have a perfect view to the peaks), have a coffee with gipfeli (a swiss croissant), head to the mountains, read a book, have some fondue, come back down – a perfect Swiss mountain day. So much to do, so much to see, you will always find something new around the corner.

If you have any questions about Grindelwald, please let me know. I will do my best to help you.

Related posts:

Hi there! I’m Aurimas, a man behind Go Look Explore. I’m passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Let’s connect .

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Must-see attractions in Grindelwald

Gletscherschlucht

Grindelwald

Turbulent waters carve a path through this craggy glacier gorge. A footpath weaves through tunnels hacked into cliffs veined with pink and green marble…

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78 Things to Do in Grindelwald 2024

Grindelwald offers numerous activities and excursion destinations in the Jungfrau region. The outdoor paradise has direct access to 250 km of ski slopes and 160 km of mountain bike trails. For hiking you will find 300 km of summer and 70 km of winter hiking trails in Grindelwald. For tobogganing there are 50 km of toboggan runs. Here you will also find the longest toboggan run in the world. Grindelwald is the starting point to excursion destinations such as the Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald First, Männlichen and Pfingstegg

Recommended by travellers

Tickets and admissions

Guided tours

Bad weather

Valentine's Day

Bachelor party

Children's birthday

Jungfrau Travel Pass for 3 to 8 days summer

With the Jungfrau Travel Pass you can travel between April and October as often as you like on the booked days criss-cross through the Jungfrau region. In addition, you get discounts in certain stores and a special price on the route Eigergletscher - Jungfraujoch. More details

From Grindelwald: Ticket Jungfraujoch incl. seat reservation

Book your ticket from Grindelwald to the Jungfraujoch and travel to the Top of Europe without queuing. The modern cable car "Eiger Express" and the Jungfrau Railways take you on one of the most spectacular journeys to the highest station in Europe. More details

Ticket Grindelwald First - Top of Adventure

Take the Firstbahn to Grindelwald-First - Top of Adventure. The summit is known for its diverse adventure activities and the many hiking opportunities. More details

Paragliding Grindelwald from First

During this unforgettable paragliding flight from Grindelwald First - also known as Top of Adventure - you will get a unique view of the Eiger North Face and over the mountains of the Jungfrau region. More details

Ticket Glacier Gorge Grindelwald

Visit the glacier gorge in Grindelwald! An easy hike takes you through the rocky gorge and to the accessible spider's web. More details

Ticket Eiger Express from Grindelwald terminal

Take the Eiger Express from the Grindelwald terminal with the modern cable car directly to the Eiger Glacier station. You reach the station with the spacious cable car in only 15 min. More details

Ticket Männlichen from Grindelwald

Take this ticket from Grindelwald up to Männlichen. You can enjoy an impressive view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. More details

"Eiger Run" from the Eiger Glacier Sledging ticket Eiger Express from Grindelwald

Get on the Eiger Express in Grindelwald and let it take you to the Eiger Glacier. From there, you can enjoy a 13 km long toboggan run down into the valley. More details

Best attractions close to Grindelwald

Bodmi Arena

• Glacier Gorge Grindelwald

Grindelwald Terminal

• Alpine playground Bort

• First Cliff Walk

• Grindelwald First

Activities in Grindelwald

Grindelwald Activities and tickets

• 10 reasons why you must visit Grindelwald
• Grindelwald is a mountain village in the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by a unique mountain scenery with Wetterhorn, Mettenberg and Eiger.
• A paradise for all hikers, Grindelwald offers the best conditions for summer activities.
• Skiing in Grindelwald: You are spoilt for choice and can choose between Männlichen, First and Kleiner Scheidegg your skiing area
• The free First Cliff Walk by Tissot on Grindelwald First will give you the best spot for a selfie in the Bernese Oberland
• The adventure mountain Grindelwald First offers unique experiences like First Glider, First Flieger, Mountaincart and Trottibike
• The new V-Bahn with the Eiger Express takes you to the Eiger Glacier in 15 minutes. A very good starting point for a long toboggan ride in winter
• A visit to the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe is a must when visiting Grindelwald
• The children's paradise on Männlichen with the great hiking experience around the cow Liselotte is suitable for all children.
• A Grindelwald bad weather activity is a visit to the Grindelwald Glacier Gorge
• Every tobogganing fan must have experienced the longest toboggan run in the world once: From Faulhorn via Bussalp to Grindelwald, sledders enjoy 15km of fun and action

Grindelwald Sights

Grindelwald is well connected in the Jungfrau Region via the mountain railroads. So you can reach the following sights in a short time. From Grindelwald Terminal two modern cable cars take you in a short time to the Eigergletscher or to the Männlichen . This saves you three quarters of an hour on the way to the famous Jungfraujoch .

Since Grindelwald is right in the mountains, the sights are mostly natural attractions. The Eiger North Face towers directly near Grindelwald and is an attraction in itself.

• Eiger North Face

More than 1800 m above sea level, the north face of the Eiger is high. Because of its difficult ascent, it is legendary. In 1858, two Grindelwald mountain guides and their Irish guest tackled the first ascent of the 3,967-meter-high ice giant Eiger.

The difficult Eiger North Face, also known as the "Mordwand", was not conquered until a century later by two Germans and two Austrians (including the famous mountaineer and Tibet traveler Heinrich Harrer). It took them three days.

Today, first-class alpine climbers (difficulty level X) conquer the wall within a few hours.

• Grindelwald Glacier Gorge

The Grindelwald Glacier Gorge can be reached on foot from Grindelwald in half an hour. It is a unique world of adventure and experience with 300 meter high rock walls. The glacier gorge was created by the recession of the lower Grindelwald glacier. You can walk through the gorge via wooden walkways and a 170 m2 spider net. Inside the gorge, canyon swing and climbing are popular sports.

• Article about the Glacier Gorge Grindelwald

• Grindelwald First with First Cliff Walk by Tissot

The First Cliff Walk by Tissot consists of a narrow rocky path, a suspension bridge and a vantage point.

• The narrow cliff walk leads along the western side of the First peak.
• The single-rope suspension bridge has a length of 40 meters.
• A lookout point leads 45 meters seemingly into nothingness.

The panorama all around with the Eiger and several 4000-meter peaks is legendary.

The Bort Alpine Playground is located at 1570 meters above sea level and can be easily reached from the middle station of the Firstbahn cable car. It covers an area of about 700 square meters. Climbing and balancing landscapes, a large sandbox and a stream are part of the play area. There is also a charging station for e-bikes here.

• Alpine playground Bort am First
• Eiger Glacier

The Eiger Glacier begins at an altitude of 3700 meters above sea level on the western slope of the Eiger. From there it runs around the Kleiner Eiger and down to the Eigergletscher railroad station (approx. 2330 m a.s.l.). A second glacier tongue lies at 3200 to 3500 m above sea level between the Kleiner Eiger and the Eiger. The glacier is part of the Kleine Scheidegg/Männlichen - Grindelwald/Wengen ski area.

• Eiger Glacier with the modern Eiger Express
• Jungfraujoch

The Jungfraujoch lies at almost 3500 meters above sea level and is part of the Unesco World Heritage Site "Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch". The 22 km long Aletsch glacier starts here. You can expect a breathtaking view of some of the four-thousand-meter peaks in the Bernese Alps. The unique 1,000 square meter ice palace created by two mountain guides is also very impressive.

• Jungfraujoch - the ultimate guide to the Top of Europe
• 12 tips for your first visit to the Jungfraujoch

The Pfingstegg lies at 1386 m above sea level at the northern foot of the Mättenberg. It is Grindelwald's local mountain. It is only reached by mountain railroad in summer. On the Pfingstegg you can hike wonderfully, cycle, fly through the forest with the Fly-Line or whiz down the Toboggan (summer toboggan run).

• Pfingstegg - the local mountain of Grindelwald

Männlichen lies at 2342 m above sea level and is reached by gondola (V-Bahn) from Grindelwald in 19 min.

On Männlichen you will find beautiful viewpoints of the mountain giants Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch. In addition, there are several adventure and theme trails such as Lieselotte Weg, Öpfelchüechliweg and Royal Walk. All trails can be easily walked with the whole family. However, they are not suitable for baby carriages or wheelchairs.

In winter Männlichen belongs to the skiing area. In summer you can go down the mountain by mountain bike or a summer toboggan (Gemel). Männlichen is also known for paragliding.

• Männlichen - panoramic view of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau
• Grindelwald insider tips

We have three tips for your stay in Grindelwald.

Rapid descent with the Gemel

A special summer toboggan is rented at the top station (Pit-Shop) at Männlichen. With a Summer Gemel (also known as Mountaincart) you can ride down to the middle station Holenstein in summer. The track for the Summer Gemel starts at 2225 m a.s.l. On a length of 6 km it leads down about 600 meters of altitude. At the middle station Holenstein you hand in the Gemel again.

The FLY Line at Pfingstegg is an unusual and very popular fun. You sit in a seat frame that is attached to a winding tube system. You ride through the forest and across the field for 350 meters. The speed is 8 to 12 km/h. This fun is also suitable for those who want to take it a little easier.

First Flyer

The First Flieger on Grindelwald First is similar in structure to the FLY Line, but reaches speeds of up to 84 km/h. It does not run over a tube system, but along an 800 m steel cable. Don't miss out on this adventurous experience.

Things to do in Grindelwald

The activities and experiences on offer around Grindelwald range from a variety of outdoor activities to an indoor rope park and museums as bad weather alternatives

Summer activities include:

• Hiking and mountain walking
• Summer tobogganing, fly-line and Tyrolienne
• Climbing, canyoning and rafting
• Paragliding (all year round)

Winter activities include:

• skiing and snowboarding
• tobogganing
• snowshoeing, winter hiking
• Hiking and mountain walking around Grindelwald

The 2343-meter-high summit of Männlichen can be climbed from the top station of the Grindelwald Männlichen cable car via the steep Royal Walk summit trail in about 30 minutes

Some mountain hiking trails from Männlichen

• Hiking trail no. 60 Royal Walk Männlichen - Männlichen summit
• Hiking trail no. 61 Easy Männlichen - Holenstein
• Hiking trail no. 63 Männlichen - Kleine Scheidegg
• Hiking trail no. 67 Holenstein - Grindelwald Grund
• Panorama trail to Kleine Scheidegg
• Romantic trail from Männlichen to Alpiglen

The Pfingstegg is not only an ideal starting point for hikes through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch and allows a fantastic view over the valley of Grindelwald.

Some mountain hiking trails from Pfingstegg

• Pfingstegg - Bäregg
• Pfingstegg - Glacier Gorge
• Grindelwald - Pfingstegg
• Summer toboggan run, FLY Line and similar from Grindelwald

FLY Line, First FLY and Summer-Gemel are very popular alternatives to winter tobogganing. Pfingstegg also offers a 763-meter-long summer toboggan run.

FLY Line Pfingstegg

On the Pfingstegg you will find a Fly Line in summer. You are well attached to a tube system via a free hanging seat. You fly like a bird several meters above the ground between the trees. Since you can only reach 8-12km/h, this FLY Line is perfect for families. It may be used from the age of about 4 years. The Fly Line may not be used under the influence of alcohol.

Open the FLY Line (like the cable car) from the second week of May until about mid-October daily from 11-17h and during evening Sky Dinner, during the high season 10-18h.

First FLYER Grindelwald First

You will find the First FLYER on Grindelwald First. Here you will be attached to a steel cable with a seat that is also freely suspended. The speed reaches up to 84 km/h when you ride down from First to the middle station Schreckfeld. This ride is well suited for small groups, as up to four people are allowed to go at once

First Glider Grindelwald First

Like the First FLYER, the First Glider runs between the top and middle stations of the First cable car. You are strapped to an eagle and fly belly-down through the air. First, the ride goes backwards at 72 km/h up to the top station. Afterwards, you'll get about 83 km/h speed on the way down. Four guests (from 10 years and 1.30m minimum height) float simultaneously next to each other

• Mountain bike, Gemel or Trottigart riding in Grindelwald

Especially in summer, in addition to e-bikes and mountain bikes on the mountains around Grindelwald, there are also some unusual driving opportunities on the road.

Mountain bike trails from Grindelwald

From Grindelwald you can choose from 160 km of mountain bike trails. Riding is allowed on hiking trails, but not in the hunting ban area.

• E-MTB Eiger Loop: 3-day trail Grindelwald-Mürren-Meiringen-Grindelwald
• MTB Jungfrau Loop: 4-day trail Grindelwald-Mürren-Interlaken-Meiringen-Grindelwald

Stations of the MTB Eiger Loop

Stations of the MTB Jungfrau Loop

Trottibike Grindelwald First

From the middle station Bort you can ride down with the Trottibike. The necessary helmets are lent free of charge. For children from 125 cm height there are smaller Trotti Bikes.

Summer Gemel at Männlichen and Grindelwald First

With a Summer Gemel (also known as a mountain cart) you can ride down the slope between the Männlichen mountain station and the Holenstein middle station. The 6 km long track starts at 2225 meters above sea level and ends about 600 meters lower

You can rent the Gemel in the stores of the mountain railroad in Wengen, Grindelwald or directly at the Männlichen mountain station. The Gemel sled is handed out in the Pit Shop at the top station. You have to return it personally at the middle station Holenstein after the ride.

From Schreckfeld to Bort, you ride the First Mountain Cart over three kilometers down. Good tires, a comfortable seat and good brakes ensure safe riding. Children from 125 cm height are suitable. The required safety helmet is provided free of charge.

Which climber has not dreamed of climbing the north face of the Eiger? The myth of the Eiger has always fascinated people.

Eiger Trail and Eiger Rotstock

With the necessary equipment, every experienced via ferrata climber and mountain hiker can climb the 2,600-meter-high, vertically sloping Rotstock summit via the Eiger Trail and the moderately difficult Eiger Rotstock via ferrata.

While it's not the Eiger North Face, it comes very close to the North Face ambience. Only professional alpinists should venture on any of the 30 interconnected routes on the Eiger North Face, which are rated at the highest difficulty level X.

Sports Center in Grindelwald

There is a bouldering wall at the Grindelwald Sports Center. At jumping height you can climb here on 170 m2 walls.

On bad weather days not only the children can let off steam in the indoor rope park Grindelwald. This is the largest indoor rope park in the whole of Europe. The 40 elements in 5 courses are also a challenge for big climbers. In about half an hour by car you can reach another rope park of superlatives: the rope park Interlaken. More than 120 challenges on 9 courses, which reach up to 20 meters into the treetops, offer the right adrenaline rush and sharpen concentration, balance as well as coordination at the same time.

In addition to climbing and canyoning, canyon swing has also become a popular sport in the Grindelwald Glacier Gorge.

• Paragliding Grindelwald

For example, delta gliders and paragliders are attracted to Grindelwald by the gondola lift up to the 2160-meter Grindelwald First. This is a natural plateau of the southwest ridge to the Widderfeldgrätli. Here, ideal wind conditions prevail for unforgettable flights through the imposing mountain scenery and the take-off point is also ideal.

In the Grindelwald region there are several providers for tandem flights who also use the take-off points on Männlichen, which rises to the west of Grindelwald. From here you can see the ice giants Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. The Grindelwald-Männlichen gondola takes 19 minutes to reach the top station at 2225 meters above sea level.

• Ski resorts

From Grindelwald you have direct access to two ski areas via the mountain railroads and lifts

Ski area Kleine Scheidegg/Männlichen - Grindelwald/Wengen

This huge ski area contains 102 km of trails. 8 lifts, 10 chairlifts and 6 mountain railroads transport up to 31351 people per hour.

Ski resort First - Grindelwald

For skiing and snowboarding there are 49 km of slopes and 4 km of ski routes. 4 lifts, 3 chairlifts and 3 mountain railroads transport the guests.

• Skiing and snowboarding

The Grindelwald-First ski area is located on the slopes of the Schwarzhorn to the northeast of Grindelwald. It is famous for its varied freestyle runs that face the sun. The ski resort is called the sunniest ski resort in the Bernese Oberland. During the descent you will also have very spectacular views of the Eiger North Face. The skicross track has a special attraction.

The ski resort Grindelwald-Wengen offers a direct view of the ice giants Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. The world famous world cup downhill run Lauberhorn can be skied by experienced skiers. For beginners, there is a long downhill run. It starts at the mountain station and leads via Kleine Scheidegg to Brandegg.

• Snowpark Grindelwald First

The Grindelwald First winter sports area covers a wide range of requirements in its snowpark. Everyone will find something, from beginners to professionals and freestylers. In addition to two parks with different levels of difficulty, there is also a 130m-long halfpipe. The Bärgelegg Park is located at the Bärgelegg ski lift and is 650 meters long. The freestylers are brought back to the start by the park's own drag lift. The Oberjoch Park is located at 2500 meters above sea level next to the top station and is also suitable for beginners. Due to the high location an early start of the season is guaranteed.

• Tobogganing

Grindelwald First offers very long toboggan runs. The longest toboggan run in the world is called Big Pintenfritz . It is 15 km long and starts at Faulhorn (2680 m above sea level). To experience this sledding fun, you have to bring the sled up on foot for 2.5 hours beforehand. The descent, which takes at least 30 minutes, is all the more beautiful On the way you can also stop at the mountain restaurant Bussalp. The route is open from about mid-December until about the end of March.

At Männlichen and at Kleine Scheidegg there are also nice toboggan runs. Summer hiking trails are often used for sledding in winter.

Good toboggan runs are for example these hiking trails:

• Hiking trail 60 Männlichen summit
• Hiking trail 61 Easy Männlichen Holenstein
• Snowshoeing, winter hiking

From Grindelwald you will find 70 km of winter hiking trails in a high alpine landscape with a wonderful panorama

Eiger Trail No. 7 from Holenstein to Brandegg

This Eiger Trail has nothing to do with the summer hiking trail of the same name. On this trail, the recurring view of the Eiger north face is fascinating. The 6 km trail gets by with slight inclines. In total, the easy snowshoe tour has about 125 meters of ascent. The trail starts at the middle station of the Männlichen mountain railroad and ends in Brandegg at the Wengernalpbahn.

Aspen Trail No. 6 to Vorsassi

The Aspen Trail starts with the bus ride to Aspen. Bus number 123 departs from Grindelwald train station every hour. The moderately difficult snowshoe tour is only 1300 meters long, but has 219 vertical meters. Over snowy mats, the trail first goes uphill towards Moosgaden. Then the trail leads over the snowy forest road to the Vorsassi at the lower part of the Itramenwald. Here the trail meets the Eiger Trail No. 7. To the right the Eiger Trail leads to Holenstein. The left fork leads to Brandegg.

• other activities

A visit to the Alpine Bird Park Grindelwald near Ischboden, which has become a home for rare bird species, also offers a special nature experience. With a voluntary donation from visitors, capercaillies, buzzards, little owls, eagle owls and many more alpine birds are cared for and nurtured.

• Snow and mountain schools around Grindelwald

All these schools are both mountain and ski schools.

• Outdoor Mountain School Grindelwald
• Outdoor Swiss Ski School Grindelwald
• ALTITUDE Ski and Snowboard School
• Buri Sport Grindelwald Ski & Snowboard School
• privat-ski Ski & Snowboard School
• Ski School Skiparadies Männlichen
• Swiss Ski & Snowboard School Kleine Scheidegg
• Events in Grindelwald

In Grindelwald events take place all year round.

Some recurring events and happenings:

• January World Snow Festival : a week of figures and sculptures made from three-meter-high blocks of snow
• January Martinsloch : the sun shines through the Martinsloch, the natural phenomenon and the legend of the Eiger are explained over mulled wine
• January Bull Trophy , the legendary international curling tournament
• February Velogemel World Championship
• March King of the First Hill : 8 km Volks Downhill with 1200 meters altitude difference from Oberjoch to Stählisboden,in the categories Ski, Snowboard, Telemark and Fun (costumed)
• March The Winter Final : Treasure hunt of the 30 chests
• June SWISSMAN Xtreme Triathlon , with more than 5500 meters of altitude gain
• July ** Eiger Ultra Trail**, more than 100 km long
• August ENDURO - Eiger Bike-Challenge , with 1000 participants
• August Inferno Triathlon : with 5500 meters of ascent over a distance of 155 km between Thun and Schilthorn
• October Light Art Grindelwald : the works of art exhibited in the public space in the center of the village.

Hotels in Grindelwald

Guests have been coming to Grindelwald since the beginning of the 19th century. They want to relax in the wild romantic mountain world or conquer the mountain giants. In 1820, the first guesthouse was opened with the Hotel Schwarzer Adler. Although the village has only a little more than 4000 inhabitants, there were 1.3 million overnight stays in 2019. There are about 8000 guest beds in Grindelwald.

• Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel Grindelwald

The 4 star Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel Grindelwald has a large wellness area with heated swimming pool and brine pool. In addition to single, double and family rooms, there are also snoring rooms with two separate bedrooms.The view is of the Eiger or the Wetterhorn.

• Hotel Schweizerhof

The Hotel Schweizerhof is located in the Swiss Alp Resort. It is also called Romatikhotel and has 5 stars. Here you will also find a wellness area with heated indoor pool and several saunas. The hotel has three restaurants: Alpterrassen (half board), Schmitte and Gaststübli. Besides single and double rooms you will find junior suites, most of them with balcony. The view goes to the Eiger massif.

Restaurants Grindelwald

In the wintery mountains you strengthen yourself in one of the rustic alpine huts on the sun terrace. Usually cheese fondue and mulled wine are offered. Culinary specialities from the Bernese Oberland are also offered at the annual Advent market. The atmospheric Advent market is located at the Märthysi Bärplatz in the middle of Grindelwald.

• Restaurant Belvedere

In the middle of Grindelwald stands the popular gourmet restaurant Belvedere. It belongs to the hotel of the same name. Since it is very popular, a reservation is recommended.

• Restaurant Jägerstübli

The Jägerstübli Restaurant is located on the outskirts of Grindelwald. The rustic restaurant is open all year round and can be reached by car. Bus 123 also takes you directly to the Jägerstübli. In winter it is located directly on the Männlichen No. 3 valley run, in summer it is a hiking trail.

• Restaurants in Grindelwald First
• Restaurant First: 750 seats
• Restaurant Bort: 370 seats
• Restaurant Schreckfeld: 100 seats
• Café Genepi: 40 seats (winter)
• Bärgelegghütte: only terrace (winter)

Arrival in Grindelwald

As a traditional vacation region, Grindelwald is connected to an excellent transport network

• Car/Motorbike

From the direction of Interlaken, Grindelwaldstrasse Route 6 leads between the mountains to Grindelwald. If you want to arrive by car or motorcycle from the direction of Meiringen, the pass road over the Grosse Scheidegg is an adventurous way to get there. In winter, however, you can expect the pass to be closed.

• Public transport

A more comfortable way to get there is by train. The historic Bernese Oberland Railway runs from Interlaken to Grindelwald. You can reach all the peaks in the Jungfrau Region with the modern mountain railroads, which connect the impressive mountain world of the Swiss Alps all year round. Since 2020, the network has been significantly improved with the construction of the V-Bahnen (Eiger Express and Männlichen gondola).

• Mountain railroads from Grindelwald

Five mountain railroads operate in Grindelwald. The newest cable car is the Eiger Express, which cuts the travel time to the Jungfraujoch in half. Those who like it more comfortable take the Wengernalpbahn as before. The price, by the way, is the same regardless of which way you take. The mountain railroads run in Grindelwald all year round (except the Pfingsteggbahn).

Mountain railroads in Grindelwald

Table of contents

Grindelwald is located in the midst of spectacular mountains at the foot of the Eiger. The village is considered the gateway to the Jungfrau region. From Grindelwald you can reach the Jungfraujoch, the Männlichen and Grindelwald First by cable cars. The Grindelwald Glacier Gorge can be reached on foot in half an hour

The Grindelwald region is an absolute outdoor paradise for adrenaline seekers. Fly-Line, Tyrolienne, Climbing, canyoning, rafting and paragliding are popular sports here. But there are also numerous activities for families, hiking birds, young and old. These include skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, telemark skiing or sledding on the longest sled run in the world. Golfing, biking, hiking and trail running are also sports you can do well here.

Top Destinations

• Grindelwald
• Lauterbrunnen
• Brienzwiler

Top Activities

Top attractions.

• Harder Kulm
• Museum of Transport
• Mount Titlis
• Lake Lucerne
• Schynige Plate
• Lake Geneva
• Chillon Castle

Things to do in Grindelwald, SWITZERLAND

• Grindelwald

Grindelwald, located at the heart of the Bernese Alps, is one of the three main Alpine centres (the others being Zermatt and Chamonix ).

Boasting the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau mountains, and the Jungfraujoch railway , Grindelwald is a favourite destination for those who love the mountains.

At an altitude of 1034 metres, and with a history dating back to 1146, Grindelwald is surrounded by lush green pastures and towered over by the 3970 metre Eiger . The near-vertical north face of that mountain has obsessed mountaineers for centuries, featuring in the films Eiger Sanction (starring Clint Eastwood) and Nordwand, and being one of the Alps' Great North Faces.

The Eiger marks the start of a ridge which takes in the Monch (4107 metres) and Jungfrau (4158 metres). Visitors can get close to the snow-capped peaks by taking the Jungfraubahn from the Kleine Scheidegg to the Jungfraujoch. This 9-kilometre journey, largely through tunnels blasted into the Eiger's north face, whisks visitors up to an ear-popping 3454 metres.

Grindelwald also offers fantastic day hikes, world-class skiing , and great accommodation, cuisine and hospitality.  It is also within easy reach of Switzerland's capital, Bern , which is a good rainy day attraction. 

Last updated: Dec 2019.

Attractions in Grindelwald

Jungfrau railway, the grosse scheidegg, the jungfrau, grindelwald resources, grindelwald photo gallery, grindelwald map, visiting switzerland, 1. the jungfrau railway (aka the jungfraubahn).

Built between 1896 and 1912, the Jungfraubahn is a cog railway that takes passengers from the Kleine Schiedegg (2061 metres) to the Jungfraujoch (3454 metres).

The 9.3 kilometre, 50-minute journey is largely underground, passing through tunnels blasted into the north face of the Eiger (3970 metres).

The journey includes short stops at Eigerwand (2865 metres), in the middle of the Eiger's north face, and Eismeer (3160 metres), on the Eiger's west ridge, to take in the majesty of the Eiger at close quarters through observation windows.

The Top of Europe

Upon arrival at the Junfraujoch—called the Top of Europe by the company operating the railway—visitors will notice the views and the altitude (with physical exertion far harder than in the valley).

Editor's tip ...

The best place to take in the mountains is the Sphinx Terrace (3571 metres, reached using Switzerland's fastest lift). The indoor and outdoor viewing platforms offer unrivalled views of the Jungfrau (4158 metres, pictured), the Monch (4107 metres) and the numerous surrounding peaks and glaciers. 

Those with boots and warm clothing can walk along a pre-prepared snow track to the Monchsjochhutte (3658 metres), an alpine hut perched on the side on the Monch; this 2 kilometre walk passes by the Snow Fun Park , offering sledging, skiing, snowboarding and a zip-line. MAP

Other things to see

Next on the list of things to do is the Alpine Sensation exhibition, which gives information about the Adolf Guyer-Zeller's audacious plan to build the Jungfraubahn and the dangers faced by the workers who turned it into reality. This leads to the Ice Palace (Eispalast), a 1000 square metre igloo with numerous niches, passageways and ice sculptures.

Complete your trip by stepping onto the snowy Plateau, above the impressive Jungfraufirn part of the Aletsch Glacier (the largest in the Alps), and take in the mountain views one last time before the return trip.

£$€¥ A ticket to the Top of the World is not cheap! A return adult fare from Grindelwald costs up to CHF167-217 (Dec 2019), depending on the season. Half fare cards accepted.

2. The Skiing

Grindelwald is a fairly low ski resort —its highest lift is at 2,486 metres—with predominantly intermediate terrain, some terrifying advanced ground and breathtaking scenery.

The resort's 213 kilometres of pistes are found in three areas: around 50 kms in the First area towards to east of Grindelwald; 100 kms at the base of the Eiger (together with 30 kms of toboggan runs); and the remainder at Murren (accessed by rail or coach). There are three nursery areas, 24 beginner pistes (blue runs), 36 intermediate runs (red runs) and 12 advanced routes (black runs).

Terrain for all levels

Beginners looking to gain confidence will enjoy a number of 'slow slopes', with a 30 kilometre per hour speed limit. For intermediate skiers, the highlights are the 8 kilometre run from Oberjoch down to Grindelwald and the powder slopes of the Eiger glacier.  MAP

Advanced skiers can try the world-famous Lauberhorn world cup piste, the challenging Black Rock run from the base of the Eiger, or Murren's near-vertical Kanonenrohr (meaning gun barrel). There is also nightskiing in the BodmiArena on Tuesdays and Fridays from 7pm-10pm.

The season is brought to a close by the Snowpenair concert, held at the Kleine Sheidegg . The next concert, the 23rd edition of the event, takes place on 4/5 April 2020 with acts like Sunrise Avenue, Helene Fischer and Crazy Mofos. Headline acts in past years have included James Morrison (2019), Amy Macdonald (2018), Deep Purple (2014), Roxette (2013) and Bryan Adams (2012).

For boarders, First is the place to head. There is a warm-up park on the Oberjoch, the White Elements freestyle park , a superpipe at Shrekford and a terrain park at Bargelegg. There are also 20 kilometres of cross-country tracks, starting at Grund.

when? Grindelwald's ski season runs from early December to mid-April.

£$€¥ A 6-day peak pass costs CHF309 (Dec 2019).

3. The Mönch

The 4,107 m (13,474 ft) Mönch is found between the Jungfrau to the west and the Eiger to the east. 

It was first summitted in 1857 by the famous mountaineer Christian Almer (whose other first ascents include the Eiger and the Aiguille Verte on Mont Blanc ), Christian and Ulrich Kaufmann and Sigismund Porges.

Found at the heart of the Berner Oberland, the picture-perfect Mönch/Jungfrau/Eiger triumvirate can be seen for hundreds of miles. The north face of the Mönch, with a prominence of almost 600 metres leading down to the Eiger glacier (pictured), is its most impressive aspect.

Climbing the Monch

For mountaineers , the Mönch is a perfect introduction to the region. Graded PD (peu difficile), the ascent of the normal south-east ridge can be completed in around 3-4 hours, initially on rock and then on snow ridges.

Whilst a short day in terms of alpine ascents, caution is needed because the summit ridge is narrow and exposed.  The descent takes around 2 hours. For those after a more difficult ascent, the west ridge is steeper and more exposed and the Nollen ridge on the north-west spur presents considerable ice challenges.

The Monchjochhutte

Many climbers overnight at the Mönchjochhütte —a well-maintained mountain hut offering hearty mountain grub and accommodation in 12-person dorms—and tackle the Jungfrau, Walcherhorn or Gross Fiescherhorn the next day. At 3,650 metres, the Mönchjochhütte is the highest Swiss alpine hut .

where? The Mönch is accessed from the Jungfrau railway station. Take the east exit towards the Mönchjochhütte and walk about 1 kilometre on the pre-prepared snow track. Bear to the left to reach the bottom of the ascent.  MAP

when? Summer climbing season.

£$€¥ The Mönchsjochhütte charges CHF69 for half-board (Dec 2019). Discounts are available for members of national mountaineering associations.

4. The Grosse Scheidegg

With an elevation of 1,962 metres, the virtually car-free Grosse Scheidegg is a mountain pass that connects Grindelwald and Meiringen.

In good weather, it offers spectacular views of Grindelwald, the Eiger and the Kleine Scheidegg , together with pretty mountain meadows and flowers. The Grosse Scheidegg is also the base of the 3,692 metre Wetterhorn , the first ascent of which in 1854 marked the start of the golden age of alpinism.

The climb to the Grosse Scheidegg from Grindelwald takes about 3.5 hours and includes over 1000 metres of ascent. It is popular amongst walkers, who sometimes descend the pass to Meiringen via the spectacular Reichenbachfall (where Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes met his end at the hands of Professor Moriarty).

Cyclists also enjoy the 10 kilometre climb from Grindelwald, which has an average incline of 9.1%. For those looking for something less exacting, we suggest the 5.1 km walk from First (2,166 metres, accessible by gondola) to the Grosse Scheidegg, offering grand views of the Jungfrau massif. Most choose to return to Grindelwald by postbus, sparing some steep knee-jarring descent.

where? Accessible on foot, bike or postbus from Meiringen and Grindelwald. MAP

5. The Jungfrau

The Jungfrau (meaning the maiden or virgin) is a 4158 metre (13,642 ft) high mountain found to the eastern end of the 10-kilometre rock wall created by it, the Eiger and the Monch.

The mountain's vertical north face is its most famous, towering 10,000 feet over the valley town of Lauterbrunnen.

The north-east side of the mountain is less steep, providing the classic route to the top of the mountain (graded PD+ and involving 850 metres of ascent). Climbers cross the massive Aletsch Glacier , after descending a few hundred metres from the Mönchjochhütte. After 45 minutes, the route heads upwards up a rocky ridge (solid red and orange gneiss) for a similar length of time.

The remainder of the route is on snow/ice with crampons, with steep sections of up to 50 degrees before and after the Rottalsattel (the saddle between the Jungfrau and the adjacent Rottalhorn, 3972 metres). Overall the climb takes about 4-5 hours to the summit and about 2-3 hours in descent to the Jungfraujoch (often in a more direct manner which cuts out down-climbing on rock).

The mountain was first summitted in 1811 by Johann and Hieronymus Meyer . The climb was thought to be so difficult that some initially cast doubts as to whether the summit had been reached. The north face was not conquered for another century, with Albert Weber and Hans Schlunegger summitting on 30 July 1911.

where? Given the length of the ascent, an early morning start from the Mönchjochhütte is essential. MAP

6. The Kleine Scheidegg

The walk from Grindelwald to the Kleine Scheidegg (2061 metres, meaning 'minor watershed') and then on to Lauterbrunnen is one of the most scenic in the Swiss Alps.

Forming the seventh leg of the Alpine Pass Route—the classic east-west walk across Switzerland—the 18 kilometre, 6-7 hour walk is not particularly strenuous. Starting from the Grindelwald-Grund station , the track ascends steeply past pretty chalets, crossing the railway lines and then through forest.

The Berghotel Alpiglen (1616 metres) is reached about 2.5 hours from Grindelwald, after which the ascent becomes more gentle, reaching the Kleine Scheidegg after about 4 hours. Be prepared for both hordes of tourists and substantial development!

On the other hand, the Kleine Scheidegg also offers a number of possibilities for the rest of the day: a hearty mountain lunch (perhaps at the traditional Restaurant Grindelwaldblick ) before continuing your trip or retracing your steps; a trip to the Jungfraujoch; or a railway journey back to Grindelwald or on to Lauterbrunnen.

It also offers stunning views of the rock walls of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau ascending 2000 metres above, and to the world-famous 4.55 kilometre Lauberhorn ski-run.

For those pressing on to Lauterbrunnen , take the broad track and cross the train line before the Wengernalp station (1874 metres). Continue to views of the Gspaltenhorn (3436 metres) and Schilthorn (2970 metres) through alpine meadow and down to the car-free Wengen after about 2 hours.

The descent becomes steeper, through spruce and maple forests, with views of the Lauterbrunnen Breithorn (3785 metres). Lauterbrunnen is reached about 1 hour after Wengen.

The Kleine Scheidegg is also famous for being the finishing line for the annual Jungfrau Marathon (see 10, below) and as the place where Clint Eastwood stayed when filming the 1974 hit The Eiger Sanction .

where? The walk sets off from the Grindelwald-Grund station. MAP

when? Summer walking season.

7. The Eiger

The 3,970 metre (13,025 foot) Eiger is one of the most famous mountains in the world, on account of its precipitous 1800 metre north face (pictured). 

This huge limestone wall (aka the north wall or the Nordwand) is one of the six classic north faces of the Alps, known for their difficulty and height; the others are Cima Grande di Laveredo (Italian Dolomites), Grandes Jorasses and Petit Dru (both Mont Blanc massif, Chamonix ), the Matterhorn ( Zermatt ), and Piz Badile (Swiss/Italian Bregaglia range). 

First climbed on 24 July 1938 by Anderl Heckmair, Ludwig Vorg, Heinrich Harrer and Fritz Kasparek, the north face has since claimed the lives of at least 64 climbers.  Harrer’s subsequent book, The White Spider , was named after an ice-field on the upper reaches of the face resembling the legs of a spider. 

Reinhold Messner , the world’s most successful alpinist, ascended the North Face in 10 hours in 1974 (a record which stands to this day). The face is graded ED2 (Extremement Difficile/extremely difficult) and usually takes between two and three days.

An alternative is to climb the Eiger by the west flank (first ascended by Charles Barrington and two local guides in 1858) or the Mittellegi ridge (first conquered in 1921).  The west flank is graded AD (Assez Difficule/Quite Difficult), involving 1650 metres of ascent, with the round trip taking around 10 hours. 

The knife-edged Mittellegi ridge is graded D, on account of its more difficult rock climbing and considerable exposure: leaving from the Mittellegi Hut (accessed from the Eigerwand railway station) the ascent takes around 4 hours and the descent by the west flank another 6 hours. 

when? The Mittellegi ridge and west flank routes are usually attempted during the summer climbing season. Most mountaineers prefer to attempt the north face during winter, when rock fall is less of a danger.

8. The Lauberhorn

Though only 2,472 metres tall, the Lauberhorn hosts the world’s longest and fastest downhill ski race each January. 

First run in 1930, the 4.45 kilometre course takes approximately 2.5 minutes to complete, descending 1,025 metres to reach the finish at Wengen at an average gradient of 33% . 

Top speeds approach 160 kilometres per hour on the fastest Haneggshuss section, with the course record speed of 98 miles per hour held by Italian Stefan Thanei.  

The course’s other highlights are a 40-metre jump over a rock nose, called the Hundscopf (dog’s head), and the Wasserstation (water station) tunnel.   

Around 30,000 spectators attend the races each year, which form part of the Skiing World Cup . 

The Lauberhorn Trail from the Kleine Scheidegg allows the course to be walked during the summer, with twelve information panels displaying interesting facts about the race. 

9. The Faulhornweg

The Faulhornweg is Grindelwald's best day hike.

It starts and ends with public transport, taking most of the ascent out of the route and leaving a stunning 5-7 hour ridge walk at above 1900 metres. Leave from Grindelwald train station, taking the train to Wilderswil (584 metres, between Grindelwald and Interlaken). From here an historic cog railway pulls you up to the Schynige Platte (1987 metres).

The 45-minute journey offers views of fertile Alpine pastures, forests and Lakes Thun and Brienz (either side of Interlaken) before the giant Bernese Oberland 4000ers unveil themselves. Many choose to take in the 600 species of Alpine flora at the Schynige Platte's Alpengarten before starting the 15 kilometre route.

Following the ridgeline, the well-marked path takes you past Oberberghorn (2069 metres), Laucheren (2230 metres), Egg (2067 metres), Manndlenen (2344 metres), Faulhorn (2680 metres) and then on to First (2166 metres). Initially passing through rolling pastures, and around scree slopes, Egg is reached after about 1.5 hours.

There follows some descent into the Sagistal valley before more effort is required to reach the saddle of Manndlenen , complete with small alpine hut ( Berghaus Manndlenen ), after a further hour.

Continue for about the same time to reach the walk's highest point, and the Berghotel Faulhorn (the oldest and highest mountain hotel in the Alps, pictured).

Make sure that you enjoy the 360 degree panorama, including the Monch-Eiger-Jungfrau triumvirate, which makes the steep final section of the ascent worth the effort.

Once refreshed, drop down to the tranquil waters of the Bachsee lake (2265 metres). It is from here that the north-eastern end of the Oberland can be viewed, in particular the Wetterhorn (3701 metres), Schreckhorn (4078 metres) and Finsteraarhorn (4277 metres).

The gradual descent continues until you reach First and hop onto the gondola for the 5-kilometre, 17-minute ride back down to Grindelwald (the longest cable-car journey in Europe).  MAP

£$€¥ The walking is free. A ticket from Grindelwald to Wilderswil and then from First back to Grindelwald costs CHF71.80 (Dec 2019).

10. More Grindelwald Attractions

Grindelwald offers a host of other activities and things to do:

(1) The Jungfrau Marathon.  The Jungfrau Marathon is one of the best known mountain marathons . Starting at Interlaken (568 metres), the course circles the town centre before ascending past Wengen (1280 metres) to a maximum height of 2205 metres and then down to the Kleine Schiedegg (2061 metres). Half of the course is run on asphalt roads, 37% on hiking trails and 13% on steep mountain paths. The Jungfrau Marathon has been run each September since 1993, and attracts around 4,000 participants . The course record of 2 hours 49 minutes 1 second is held by New Zealander Jonathan Wyatt. The 28th Jungfrau Marathon will take place on 11/12 September 2020.

(2) A visit to Interlaken.  The access town of Interlaken is well worth a visit. The two lakes after which Interlaken is named, Lakes Thun and Brienz, are the principal draw. Lake Thun is 17.5 kilometres long, up to 3.5 kilometres wide and has a maximum depth of 217 metres. Lake Brienz (pictured) is slightly smaller and deeper. Both are used for swimming and watersports and are served by passenger ships connecting Interlaken with the pretty lakeside towns. A good option is to hop off at Brienz (566 metres), at the far end of the eponymous lake, and take the steam-powered Brienz-Rothorn railway to an altitude of 2244 metres. Interlaken is also home to the excellent K44 climbing wall , a popular attraction on wet weather days.

(3) Grindelwald Town Centre. Grindelwald's town centre is a hubbub of activity. The main street is lined by restaurants, bars, hotels and numerous sports and outdoor shops. The sports centre in the town centre offers an indoor swimming pool , 170 square metre bouldering area, rope park, sauna complex and ice rink. Slightly further up the hill, just off the main street, is found an excellent mini-golf course . Keep an eye out for flyers advertising concerts and other cultural events.  MAP

(4) The International Snow Festival. The International Snow Festival has been held on a natural ice rink in the centre of Grindelwald each year since 1983. Teams of artists representing countries from around the world carve and sculpt snow and ice into figures and structures such as swans, penguins and castles. The six-day event, which will next be held between 20-24 January 2020, culminates in Jury and Audience prizes for the best sculptures.

(5) Day trips. Grindelwald is found in the middle of Switzerland, ideally located for day-trips to the country's other top attractions. Bern is a 90 minute train journey: its cobbled streets, Bear Park, museums, churches, restaurants and Parliament building are great rainy-day attractions. Zermatt and the majestic Matterhorn, which towers over it, is another good option for a day-trip (or perhaps an overnight stop): the train to Zermatt takes about 3 hours, with lots of changes, but the scenery en route is stunning.

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18 Best Things to Do in Grindelwald, Switzerland

The village of Grindelwald is among the Alpine beauties of Switzerland, located in the Bernese highland southeast of Interlaken, with its southern end covered by the three high mountains of Wetterhorn, Mettenberg, and Eiger. In the past, the region was mainly used as pastoral land for the livestock of wealthy aristocrats. Nowadays, the region is mostly famous for its glaciers and serves as a mountaineering, summer, and winter resort. As you’ll read in this article, there are so many things to do in Grindelwald, and this guide aims to make it as easy as possible for you to decide how to spend your time.

Jungfraujoch Excursion 

From the specially built Sphinx terrace, you can observe the longest glacier in the Alps, the Aletsch Glacier, which stretches for 24 kilometers and covers an area of 171 square kilometers. You can also visit the unique Ice Palace (YES, it is made entirely out of ice), consisting of ice sculptures of different animals such as penguins, bears, etc.

Eiger Trail

If you are a young mountaineer looking for a challenge, the Eiger Trail is the ideal thing for you. This hiking trail has attracted many people worldwide who wish to challenge themselves. This trail had its roots in 1853 when three mountaineers conquered the Eiger mountain peak. However, you will not try to reach the mountain peak during the course. Instead, this is a point-to-point trail starting at Eigergletscher (Eiger Glacier Station) and ending in Alpiglen. The route is six kilometers long and can reach 2,348 meters above sea level at its highest point. Besides being a sportive challenge, the course is also known to offer its travelers some of  the most stunning views  of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and Grindelwald. 

Hike to Bachalpsee

Another popular choice for mountaineering and hiking enthusiasts visiting Grindelwald is the hike to Bachalpsee Lake. Unlike Eiger, Bachalpsee is known to be relatively easy and can be walked by regular people without a hiking background. The hike lasts about an hour on both ascend and descend, and it offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and the crystal clear water of the heavenly Bachalpsee Lake. Bachalapsee has become famous worldwide, and you probably have seen it in pictures, but its true beauty can only be realized by visiting it yourself.

First Mountain Grindelwald

The mountain top is located at 2,137 meters of altitude and allows for a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape on a clear day. There is also a restaurant with a terrace and a viewing platform where you can relax and enjoy the view. Since the mountain has a hiking-friendly terrain besides its family-friendly activities, it is also famous for its  hiking activities . 

First Cliff Walk

First Flyer

First Glider

Another amazing experience not to miss on the First Mountain is riding its unique glider. This eagle-shaped glider can give you and at most three of your companions a thrilling ride above the sky of Grindelwald and enable you to see the region and its beauties from a bird’s perspective. So after you are done seeing the First Mountain from land and water, you should definitely see it from the air too.

First Mountain Restaurant

After doing all these activities, you will probably feel tired and need a place to rest, relax and  enjoy a good meal ; Berggasthaus First is the ideal place for hungry stomachs and thirsty throats. This restaurant offers a wide range of food and drinks from Swiss cuisine as well as new creations. The restaurant also has a perfect location that allows you to take in the beautiful views of Grindelwald’s landscape while enjoying your meal.

Mountain Carts

Trotti Bikes

Pfingstegg 

Besides First Mountain, Pfingstegg is another majestic Alpine attraction. It is located at the northern foot of the 3,104-meter high Mättenberg; despite its height, it can be accessed very easily by the mountain rail line from Grindelwald. This Alpine area is definitely one of the most favorite locations for family amusement and hiking and mountaineering activities.

Grindelwald Glacier Canyon Walk

This narrow natural corridor of the Lower Grindelwald Glacier is an impressive phenomenon that attracts tourists’ attention. The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon is formed through two 300 meters high rock walls separated through a kilometer-long gorge filled with rock galleries and tunnels. The noises of the streaming water and the smashing wind offer a thrilling sensory experience to the visitors. The overall tour is unique while also being very safe through the protective engineering measures that the administrative company takes.

Grindelwald Canyon Swing

Hiking in Grindelwald

Grindelwald offers limitless choices for hiking enthusiasts, such as the hikes around First Mountain to Bachalpsee, the Wanderung Hochmoor, the exhausting Grauseeli Loop, and Gelmersee Circular hike. Hikers have praised the region for its surreal beauty and pleasant walks. 

Generally, the hikes in this region are not very hard and can be completed by inexperienced hikers. In addition to its natural features, the area is also well equipped with all the necessary facilities and proper administrative management to ensure the safety of the hikers and the preservation of the trails.

Downhill Skiing 

Mürren-Schilthorn

Grosse Scheidegg

The Grosse Scheidegg is a mountain pass between Schwarzhorn and Wetterhorn mountains. This passing route is located between a road that connects Grindelwald with the town of Meiringen. The pass used to be an important trade and transport route before the invention of modern transport vehicles. Now that the course is not used for transport, it is a major tourist attraction for hiking and mountaineering activities. At the summit of the pass, the Berghotel and restaurant are located, offering their services through all seasons.

• Hotel Belvedere’s Antigua wellness center 
• The Selfness oasis in Hotel Eiger 
• Grand Hotel Regina’s spa 
• Hotel Sunstar’s wellness oasis 

These spa centers offer a variety of services such as massages, baths, pools, and saunas. These services can be perfect after a long, tiring hike.

Bottom Line

As you can see, the small village of Grindelwald is surrounded by majestic and unique attractions. Grindelwald offers many opportunities to enjoy your vacations; it is a place where people go to have fun, relax, and challenge themselves. We can undoubtedly say that Grindelwald offers the ideal Swiss Alpine experience, so if you’re planning a trip to Switzerland , this is a must-visit destination.

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Rúnar Rúnarsson Readies ‘O’ With Icelandic Star Ingvar E. Sigurðsson, Shares Trailer of ‘When the Light Breaks’(EXCLUSIVE)

By Annika Pham

Annika Pham

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Paris-based The Party Film Sales and Heather Millard of Iceland’s Compass Films have reunited with “When the Light Breaks” director Rúnar Rúnarsson on his next poetic filmic venture “O.”

The Icelandic film “When the Light Breaks” is due to open Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section May 15. Headlining Iceland’s major international star Ingvar E. Sigurðsson (“A White, White Day,” “Fantastic Beasts, the Crimes of Grindelwald”), the 20-minute film “O” is a “humanistic and poetic story of a fragile man, trying to achieve a simple task where his main obstacle is within himself,” according to the official logline.

Popular on Variety

Filmed in Iceland last summer, and reuniting some heads of department of “When the Light Breaks” – DP Sophia Olsson and set designer Hulda Helgadóttir – ‘O’ is currently in post-production.

“We actually shot ‘O’ before “When the Light Breaks” as we needed the same quality of light, but just finished it now, as we had to juggled with both productions at the same time,” said Millard, who emphasises Rúnarsson’s versatile and unique filmmaking talent, whatever the format. “In all of Rúnar’s films, you can feel they are built upon strong personal stories, which are able to draw us into the vulnerabilities of his character,” she noted.

Millard is producing with Rúnarsson’s Halibut, in co-production with Sweden’s [sic] Film, pubcaster SVT and regional film fund Film i Väst. Mike Downey, co-producer of “When the Light Breaks,” is executive producing.  

One of Iceland’s hottest directors on the international festival circuit and arthouse stage, Rúnarsson was Oscar nominated for his short film “The Last Farm” (2006), part of his crossroads trilogy with the 2008 Palme d’or short film entry “2 Birds” and 2009 short “Anna,” selected at the Directors’ Fortnight. Two years later Rúnarsson was back at the Cannes parallel sidebar with his debut feature “Volcano,”  Iceland’s Oscar candidate in 2011.

Meanwhile on eve of the Cannes red carpet launch of “When the Light Breaks,” The Party Film Sales and Compass Films have shared in exclusivity with  Variety  the trailer of the film, which captures a young woman’s emotional roller-coaster as she encounters love, friendship, sorrow and beauty, all within 24 hours.

The clip sneak peeks the talent of the young actor Elín Hall, cast in Rúnarsson’s previous film “Echo,” as well as the luminous photography of Rúnarsson’s long-time collaborator Olsson (credited for two episodes of “The Crown”) and the film’s endearing score, based on the music composed earlier by the late Oscar-nominated Jóhann Jóhannsson (“Sicario,” “The Theory of Everything”).

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