Grindelwald, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, serves as the perfect base for exploring the stunning beauty of the surrounding region through day trips from Grindelwald. With its convenient location and excellent transportation connections, adventurers can easily embark on unforgettable excursions to nearby attractions. From scenic train rides to picturesque mountain hikes, day trips from Grindelwald offer a diverse range of experiences that showcase the natural wonders of Switzerland. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or cultural discoveries, these day trips provide a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of the Swiss Alps.
Interlaken
Travel tips
- Distance from Grindelwald to Interlaken: 12 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- How to get there: Take the train from Grindelwald station to Interlaken Ost station. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Grindelwald to Interlaken.
Exploring Interlaken: Things to do
Interlaken is a vibrant town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, making it a perfect base for exploring the stunning Swiss Alps. With its picturesque setting and plethora of outdoor activities, Interlaken is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
One of the top things to do in Interlaken is to take a cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, where you can soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For adrenaline junkies, paragliding over the Interlaken valley offers a thrilling experience like no other. Hiking and biking trails abound in the area, providing opportunities to explore the pristine alpine landscapes.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe,” accessible by a scenic train ride through the Eiger mountain. At the summit, you can marvel at the panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks.
In the town itself, wander through the charming streets lined with traditional Swiss chalets and boutique shops. Sample local delicacies like Swiss chocolate and cheese fondue at cozy restaurants. For a cultural experience, visit the Interlaken Casino or attend a traditional Swiss folklore show.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Interlaken offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your Swiss holiday.
Lauterbrunnen
Travel tips
- Distance from Grindelwald: 9 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- How to get there: Take the Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB) from Grindelwald to Zweilütschinen, then transfer to the Lauterbrunnen train. Alternatively, you can take the PostBus from Grindelwald to Lauterbrunnen.
- Click for Google maps directions: Lauterbrunnen
Exploring Lauterbrunnen: Things to do
Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque Swiss village nestled in a valley surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The main attraction of Lauterbrunnen is its stunning natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of the top things to do in Lauterbrunnen is to visit the famous Staubbach Falls, a 300-meter-high waterfall that is easily accessible from the village. You can take a leisurely stroll to the base of the falls and feel the mist on your face as you admire the sheer power of nature.
For those seeking adventure, Lauterbrunnen offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, paragliding, and mountain biking. The valley is surrounded by numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and meadows.
Another must-see attraction in Lauterbrunnen is the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of impressive waterfalls inside a mountain that can be explored through a network of tunnels and platforms. The sheer force of the water rushing through the narrow crevices is a sight to behold.
In addition to its natural wonders, Lauterbrunnen also boasts charming Swiss chalets, traditional restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, and a peaceful atmosphere that allows visitors to relax and unwind in the midst of stunning alpine scenery. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to soak in the beauty of the Swiss Alps, Lauterbrunnen is a destination that should not be missed.
Jungfraujoch
Travel tips
- Distance from Grindelwald: Approximately 11 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours
- How to get there: From Grindelwald, take a train to Kleine Scheidegg and then transfer to the Jungfrau Railway which will take you to Jungfraujoch. The train journey offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
- Click for Google maps directions: Jungfraujoch
Exploring Jungfraujoch: Things to do
Jungfraujoch, often referred to as the “Top of Europe,” is a must-see destination for travelers visiting Switzerland. Situated at an elevation of 11,332 feet, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
One of the top activities at Jungfraujoch is visiting the Sphinx Observatory, which provides a 360-degree view of the Alps. Visitors can also explore the Ice Palace, a fascinating underground world of ice sculptures and tunnels. For the adventurous, there are opportunities for snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beauty of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, which is easily accessible from Jungfraujoch. Hiking trails around the area offer stunning vistas and a chance to experience the alpine environment up close.
Additionally, the Alpine Sensation exhibition provides insights into the history and construction of the Jungfrau Railway, adding a cultural element to the visit. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants with panoramic views, offering a unique dining experience high in the Swiss Alps.
Overall, Jungfraujoch is a unique destination that combines natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Swiss Alps.
Schynige Platte
Travel tips
- Distance from Grindelwald: 9 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour
- To get to Schynige Platte from Grindelwald, take a train from Grindelwald Station to Wilderswil Station. From there, transfer to the cogwheel train that will take you directly to Schynige Platte.
- Click for Google maps directions: Schynige Platte
Exploring Schynige Platte: Things to do
Schynige Platte is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Swiss Alps. Situated at an elevation of 1,967 meters, this stunning mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
One of the top activities at Schynige Platte is hiking along the well-marked trails that crisscross the mountain. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there are routes suitable for all levels of fitness. The Alpine Garden, located near the summit, is a botanical paradise showcasing a diverse range of alpine flora, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the mountain also offers opportunities for paragliding, allowing you to soar above the picturesque landscape and experience a bird’s eye view of the Swiss Alps. Additionally, the historic Schynige Platte Railway, which dates back to the early 20th century, provides a nostalgic journey through the region’s rich railway heritage.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, botany, photography, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps, Schynige Platte offers a memorable experience that captures the essence of Switzerland’s alpine charm.
Brienz
Travel tips
- Distance from Grindelwald: 15 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- How to get there: From Grindelwald, take the train to Interlaken Ost and then transfer to the train heading to Brienz. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Grindelwald to Interlaken West and then catch a train to Brienz.
- Click for Google maps directions: Brienz
Exploring Brienz: Things to do
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Brienz is a charming village that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. One of the main reasons why Brienz is a must-see place is its stunning location on the shores of Lake Brienz, surrounded by majestic mountains.
Visitors to Brienz can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade by the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and the lush greenery. For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of outdoor activities to indulge in, such as hiking, biking, and water sports.
A visit to the Swiss Woodcarving Museum is a must-do in Brienz, where you can learn about the traditional craft of woodcarving that the village is famous for. You can also witness skilled artisans at work and even purchase unique woodcarvings as souvenirs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Brienz, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for swimming during the summer months, providing a refreshing escape from the heat.
In conclusion, Brienz is a hidden gem in Switzerland that captivates visitors with its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and array of outdoor activities. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Brienz has something for everyone to enjoy.
Thun
Travel tips
- Distance of Thun from Grindelwald: 37 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1.5 hours
- How to get there: To reach Thun from Grindelwald, you can take a train from Grindelwald station to Interlaken Ost station. From Interlaken Ost, transfer to another train that goes directly to Thun station. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Grindelwald to Interlaken and then catch a train to Thun.
- Click for Google maps directions: Thun
Exploring Thun: Things to do
Thun is a charming town in Switzerland that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the main reasons why Thun is a must-see place is its stunning location along the shores of Lake Thun, with the backdrop of the Swiss Alps creating a picturesque setting.
When visiting Thun, make sure to explore the historic Old Town, where you can wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Thun Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and offers panoramic views of the town and the lake.
For nature lovers, a boat cruise on Lake Thun is a must-do activity. You can relax on the deck of a boat while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains and quaint villages along the shoreline.
If you’re interested in history, visit the Thun Art Museum, which houses a collection of Swiss art spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum provides insight into the cultural heritage of the region and showcases works by renowned Swiss artists.
Lastly, don’t forget to indulge in some Swiss cuisine at one of the local restaurants in Thun. Try traditional dishes like fondue or raclette, paired with a glass of Swiss wine or a refreshing local beer.
Overall, Thun is a destination that offers a mix of sightseeing, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit town in Switzerland for travelers seeking a memorable and enriching experience.
Aare Gorge
Travel tips
- Distance of Aare Gorge from Grindelwald: 25 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by public transport
- How to get there from Grindelwald: Take the train from Grindelwald to Meiringen, then transfer to the bus heading to Aare Gorge. The bus will drop you off near the entrance.
- Click for Google maps directions: Aare Gorge
Exploring Aare Gorge: Things to do
Aare Gorge is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters. The gorge, carved by the Aare River over thousands of years, offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature up close.
One of the must-do activities at Aare Gorge is walking through the narrow pathways that wind along the gorge walls. As you stroll through the towering cliffs, you’ll be surrounded by the echoes of rushing water and the cool mist that rises from the river below. The experience is both exhilarating and humbling, showcasing the raw beauty of the Swiss landscape.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are opportunities for hiking and rock climbing in the surrounding area. The rugged terrain provides a challenge for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Aare Gorge has something to offer everyone.
Visitors can also learn about the geology and history of the gorge at the visitor center, where interactive exhibits and guided tours provide insight into the formation of this natural marvel. The educational aspect adds depth to the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the gorge not just for its beauty, but also for its scientific significance.
Overall, Aare Gorge is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its dramatic landscapes and immersive experiences make it a standout attraction in the Swiss Alps, offering a glimpse into the power and beauty of the natural world.