Grindelwald Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland with this comprehensive travel guide, including hiking routes, cultural attractions, food and drink scene, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Grindelwald

Located in the beautiful Bernese Highlands of Switzerland, Grindelwald is a popular destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. Known for its stunning alpine scenery, Grindelwald is home to endless hiking and biking trails, ski slopes, and other outdoor activities.

But there’s more to Grindelwald than just outdoor adventures. This charming Swiss village also boasts a rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape in nature or a cultural experience, Grindelwald has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best things to see and do in Grindelwald, including natural attractions, cultural landmarks, hiking routes, local cuisine, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Grindelwald

Here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Grindelwald:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Eiger Museum: Explore the history and culture behind Grindelwald’s signature mountain, the Eiger, through exhibits and interactive displays.
  • Grindelwald Museum: Discover the history and culture of this charming Swiss village through permanent and rotating exhibits.
  • Pfingstegg: Take a cable car up to this scenic viewpoint for panoramic views of Grindelwald and the surrounding mountains.

Natural Attractions of Grindelwald: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jungfrau Region: Explore the region’s stunning alpine scenery, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and sparkling lakes.
  • Bachalpsee Lake: Take a hike to this picturesque glacial lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • First Cliff Walk: This exhilarating pathway offers stunning views of the Alps from over 2,000 meters above sea level.
  • Wetterhorn: One of the most beautiful peaks in the Bernese Alps, this mountain offers unforgettable views and a challenging climb.
  • Grindelwald Glacier: Hike to this stunning glacier, where you can explore ice caves and marvel at the immense size of this natural wonder.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with endless trails catering to all skill levels and preferences. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Eiger Trail: A challenging but rewarding trail that offers incredible views of the Eiger.
  • Faulhornweg: A long but scenic hike that offers panoramic views of the Alps and beautiful alpine meadows.
  • Kleine Scheidegg-Mannlichen: A relatively easy hike that offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
  • Bort Trail: A popular biking trail that takes you through lush forests and scenic alpine pastures.

Best Things to Do in Grindelwald: Activities and Tours

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Grindelwald is a world-renowned ski destination, offering both downhill and cross-country skiing opportunities.
  • Paragliding: Take flight over the stunning alpine landscapes with a paragliding tour.
  • Mountain Biking: Grindelwald has a wide range of mountain biking trails catering to all skill levels.
  • Canyoning: Explore the region’s hidden canyons and waterfalls with a thrilling canyoning tour.
  • Chocolate Making Workshop: Learn to make and taste delicious Swiss chocolate with a fun and tasty workshop.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grindelwald

Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary for Grindelwald:

Day 1: Arrive in Grindelwald, explore the village, and visit the Eiger Museum.

Day 2: Hike to beautiful Bachalpsee Lake and take in the stunning views.

Day 3: Take a scenic cable car ride to Pfingstegg and explore the area’s hiking trails.

Day 4: Skiing or snowboarding at the slopes of Kleine Scheidegg.

Day 5: Take a guided tour of Grindelwald’s beautiful forests and canyons.

Day 6: Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the local shops and cafes of Grindelwald.

Day 7: Take a chocolate-making workshop and relax at one of the spa resorts in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Grindelwald

Swiss cuisine is renowned for its delicious cheese, chocolate, and wine, and Grindelwald is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Grindelwald:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheese Fondue: A classic Swiss dish made with melted cheese and served with bread or potatoes.
  • Rösti: A delicious Swiss dish made with fried potatoes and often served with bacon or cheese.
  • Raclette: A popular Swiss dish made with melted cheese and often served with potatoes and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Swiss Wine: Switzerland has a rich history of winemaking, and Grindelwald is home to several local vineyards.
  • Swiss Beer: Try a local beer, like the popular Feldschlösschen beer, at one of the village’s many bars and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Grindelwald: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Grindelwald has several accommodation options to suit different styles and budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Hotel Eiger: A luxurious hotel with breathtaking views of the Eiger and access to nearby skiing and hiking trails.
  • Youth Hostel Grindelwald: A budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable multi-bed rooms.
  • Chalet Bergmandli: A cozy guesthouse with stunning views of the mountains and easy access to skiing and hiking trails.

What to Buy in Grindelwald: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Swiss Chocolates: Bring home delicious Swiss chocolates from one of the local chocolate shops.
  • Swiss Cheese: Try and buy some of Switzerland’s renowned cheeses, like Emmental or Gruyère, at one of the local cheese shops.
  • Swiss Watches: Switzerland is famous for its watchmaking, and Grindelwald has several watch shops offering high-quality Swiss timepieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Grindelwald

Switzerland has a rich cultural heritage, and Grindelwald is no exception. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting the area:

  • Respect for Nature: Switzerland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, and it’s important to be mindful of the local environment when exploring the area.
  • Politeness: Swiss people generally value politeness and are respectful towards others. Be sure to use common courtesy when interacting with locals.

Best Time to Visit Grindelwald

The best time to visit Grindelwald depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

  • Spring: Mild weather, few tourists, and beautiful mountains covered in wildflowers.
  • Summer: Warm weather, long days, and the opportunity for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
  • Fall: Cooler temperatures, beautiful autumn foliage, and fewer tourists.
  • Winter: Cold temperatures and the opportunity for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grindelwald

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Grindelwald:

Do:

  • Pronounce place names correctly, like Kleine Scheidegg (klih-nuh shi-degg).
  • Try to speak Swiss German or High German when attempting to communicate with locals.
  • Respect the local environment and culture.

Don’t:

  • Assume everyone speaks English.
  • Be loud or disruptive, especially when visiting local spas and resorts.
  • Underestimate the difficulty of hiking and outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Grindelwald is a safe and healthy destination, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some tips on safety and health in Grindelwald:

Safety in Grindelwald

  • Take caution when hiking or skiing on the slopes and trails.
  • Be aware of the local wildlife, especially when hiking in the forest.
  • Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Grindelwald

  • Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen when exploring outdoors.
  • Make sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Bring any necessary medications or first aid items.

Getting to Grindelwald: Transportation Options and Logistics

Grindelwald is easily accessible by several modes of transportation, including air, train, and bus. Here are some options:

Airports Near Grindelwald

  • Zurich Airport: The closest international airport to Grindelwald, approximately 2.5 hours away by train.
  • Geneva Airport: Approximately 3.5 hours away by train.

Bus Stations Near Grindelwald

  • Interlaken West: A major transportation hub with bus connections to Grindelwald.
  • Grindelwald Bus Station: Located in the village center.

Other Options

  • Train: Grindelwald is easily accessible by train, with regular connections from major cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Bern.
  • Drive: If you prefer driving, Grindelwald is accessible by several major highways.

How to Get Around in Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a small village that’s easy to explore on foot. However, there are also several transportation options available:

  • Cable Cars: Take a scenic cable car ride to nearby peaks and viewpoints.
  • Bus: Grindelwald has a convenient bus network connecting the village to nearby attractions.
  • Train: The Jungfrau Railway offers regular train connections to nearby towns and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Grindelwald: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Switzerland, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Interlaken: A charming Swiss town located at the base of the Jungfrau mountain range.
  • Lauterbrunnen: A picturesque village located in a deep valley surrounded by waterfalls and alpine peaks.
  • Jungfraujoch: At over 3,400 meters above sea level, this peak offers stunning views of the mountains and a unique glacier palace experience.

Conclusion

Grindelwald, Switzerland is a charming and scenic village that has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply beautiful landscapes, Grindelwald is a destination that shouldn’t be missed. Use this tour guide to plan your perfect trip and make unforgettable memories in Grindelwald.

Heimatmuseum Heimatmuseum Bachsee Bachsee Eiger Express for Jungfraujoch Eiger Express for Jungfraujoch View to the receding Lower Glacier View to the receding Lower Glacier