Lauterbrunnen Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich town of Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland with this extensive travel guide that covers everything from places to visit and things to do, to food, accommodation, local culture and customs, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Lauterbrunnen

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Lauterbrunnen is a small town that offers a perfect blend of natural and cultural beauty. Known as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls,” the town is full of pristine alpine forests, soaring mountains, and breath-taking waterfalls. This guide will give you a comprehensive overview of all the must-see attractions and activities in Lauterbrunnen.

List of Places to Visit in Lauterbrunnen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Staubbach Falls: A must-visit attraction in Lauterbrunnen is the Staubbach Falls, which is the highest free-falling waterfall in Europe. You can witness the roaring beauty of the falls from close quarters with its viewing platform.

  • Lauterbrunnen Church: This beautiful church dates back to the 15th century and is a perfect representation of Swiss-German architecture.

  • Valley Museum Lauterbrunnen: Explore the history and culture of the Lauterbrunnen valley through interactive exhibitions and displays.

Natural Attractions of Lauterbrunnen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jungfraujoch: Take a cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe, and enjoy stunning views of the Swiss Alps from the Sphinx Observatory.

  • Schilthorn: Take a cable car to the top of Schilthorn, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding alpine peaks.

  • Trummelbach Falls: These waterfalls are a magnificent site to be seen, set deep within the mountain and accessible by an elevator.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen offers some of the best hiking and biking opportunities in the world.

  • Eiger Trail: A trail that passes through some fantastic snow-capped peaks and serene valleys, the Eiger Trail is a perfect combination of challenging stretches and beautiful scenic views.

  • North Face Trail: An easy to moderate hike that takes you through Lauterbrunnen’s lush forests and rugged mountain landscapes.

  • Grindelwald Glacier Canyon Trail: A beautiful trail that takes you close to the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon.

Best Things to Do in Lauterbrunnen: Activities and Tours

Experience Lauterbrunnen’s adrenaline-fueled activities and scenic views by choosing from a variety of activities and tours.

  • Paragliding: Feel the thrill of flying over Switzerland’s mountains by trying paragliding.

  • Canyoning: Explore Lauterbrunnen’s hidden canyons with a canyoning tour, filled with slippery slides, jumps and stunning views.

  • Helicopter Tour: Take a helicopter tour to get a bird’s eye view of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and surrounding alpine peaks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lauterbrunnen

Day 1: Arrive in Lauterbrunnen, check-in to your hotel, and spend the day exploring the local area.

Day 2: Take the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch and explore the Sphinx Observatory.

Day 3: Head to Murren and enjoy a scenic hike along the Eiger Trail.

Day 4: Explore Lauterbrunnen’s cultural attractions, including the Valley Museum and Lauterbrunnen Church.

Day 5: Take a cable car to the top of Schilthorn and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding alpine peaks.

Day 6: Experience an adventure-filled day by going canyoning in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Day 7: Depart from Lauterbrunnen, feeling renewed after a week of natural and cultural experiences.

Food and Drink Scene of Lauterbrunnen

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rosti: This shredded potato dish is a staple in Swiss cuisine and is often served with bacon and cheese.

  • Fondue: Melted cheese served in a communal pot with pieces of bread, fondue is a Swiss classic and a must-try in Lauterbrunnen.

  • Chocolate: Switzerland is renowned for its chocolate and Lauterbrunnen is no exception. Sample some of the best Swiss chocolate at local chocolatiers such as Läderach and Swiss Chocolate Chalet.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Switzerland is known for its beers, and Lauterbrunnen has some excellent craft beer choices.

  • Wine: Switzerland produces some top-quality wines, and you can find a great selection of them in Lauterbrunnen.

  • Hot Chocolate: Warm up on a chilly day with a steaming cup of Swiss hot chocolate.

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

Lauterbrunnen has a wide range of accommodation options catering to every budget.

  • Hotel Staubbach: A cozy and affordable hotel in the heart of Lauterbrunnen, with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Valley Hostel: A perfect base for hikers, the hostel has a friendly atmosphere and offers comfortable bunk beds.

  • Hotel Oberland: For those looking for a luxurious retreat, Hotel Oberland offers stunning views of the valley, spacious rooms and high-end amenities.

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

  • Toblerone: This world-famous Swiss chocolate is a perfect souvenir to bring back home.

  • Wood Carvings: Swiss wood carving is a traditional craft, and you can find some exquisite pieces in Lauterbrunnen.

  • Swiss Army Knives: Buy the iconic Swiss Army Knife, available in several sizes and types, in Lauterbrunnen.

Local Culture and Customs of Lauterbrunnen

Swiss culture is steeped in history and tradition, which is reflected in the way of life in Lauterbrunnen. Visitors are encouraged to embrace local customs, including the polite way to greet people, and the appreciation for punctuality. The Swiss people take great pride in their cultural heritage and the natural beauty of their country.

Best Time to Visit Lauterbrunnen

The best time to visit Lauterbrunnen is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warm, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak. However, the winter months are also popular, as visitors can enjoy winter sports and activities such as skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lauterbrunnen

Do:

  • Carry cash: Not all restaurants and cafes in Lauterbrunnen accept credit cards.

  • Respect the environment: Switzerland is a beautiful country, and visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their impact on the environment.

Don’t:

  • Forget to tip: Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland, but it is considered polite to leave a small tip if you enjoyed your meal or service.

  • Be late: Swiss people value punctuality and being late is considered rude in Swiss culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lauterbrunnen

Switzerland is a safe country, and Lauterbrunnen is no exception. Visitors are encouraged to take the usual safety precautions while hiking or taking part in adventure activities.

Health in Lauterbrunnen

Swiss healthcare is of a high standard, and visitors can rest assured that they will receive excellent medical care if needed. However, it is necessary to purchase travel insurance before visiting Switzerland.

Getting to Lauterbrunnen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lauterbrunnen

The main airport servicing Lauterbrunnen is the Zurich Airport, which is well-connected with major international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen has a comprehensive bus service that connects it with other major cities in Switzerland.

Other Options

Trains are an efficient and scenic way to travel to Lauterbrunnen. Switzerland’s railway system is extensive and offers a range of journey options.

How to Get Around in Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen has an excellent public transportation system consisting of buses and trains. Visitors can also rent bicycles or e-bikes to explore the town at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Lauterbrunnen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Interlaken: A charming town, Interlaken offers a wide range of outdoor and adventure activities.

  • Grindelwald: The largest ski resort in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, Grindelwald is an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

  • Lucerne: One of the most iconic Swiss destinations, Lucerne is renowned for its stunning medieval architecture, museums, and shopping streets.

Conclusion

Lauterbrunnen is a fascinating destination offering visitors a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in Alpine culture. From the soaring peaks and pristine valleys to the quaint villages and ancient churches, Lauterbrunnen is a melting pot of scenic beauty, adventure, and tranquility, making it an excellent destination for globetrotters seeking to revel in in the outdoors.

Trümmelbach Falls Trümmelbach Falls Lauterbrunnen Valley seen from Männlichen Lauterbrunnen Valley seen from Männlichen