Top Things to Do in Grindelwald, Switzerland 2025

Things to Do in Grindelwald: A Hidden Gem in the Swiss Alps

Nestled at the foot of the Alps, Grindelwald serves as the perfect gateway to Switzerland’s iconic Jungfrau region. This picturesque town is like stepping into a fairy tale—its rustic charm and breathtaking scenery rival the most vivid scenes from Heidi, yet it offers a unique enchantment all its own. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a wooden chalet or hiking through lush trails, Grindelwald delivers a serenity that speaks without words. This guide will cover the top things to do in Grindelwald, the best places to stay, and practical tips for making the most of your visit, whether you’re exploring in winter or summer!

Grindelwald: Where Dreams Meet Reality

Rising early in Grindelwald rewards you with breathtaking views of the majestic Eiger mountain. The town’s pastoral scenery unfolds like a living postcard, with traditional wooden chalets dotting the green meadows. Here, nature speaks its own language – through rustling leaves, mountain breezes, and snow-capped peaks that pierce the clouds.

Essential Guide to Grindelwald, Switzerland

Nestled in the heart of the Bernese Highlands, Grindelwald sits proudly at 1,034 meters above sea level. This charming village is embraced by three legendary peaks – the Eiger, Mönch, and Wetterhorn – making it a perfect base for exploring the Swiss Alps. Located in the Interlaken district of Bern canton, it’s easily accessible yet feels worlds away from urban life.

Top Things to Do in Grindelwald:

Ride the Jungfrau Railway to Europe’s highest station
Hike the panoramic First Cliff Walk
Experience winter sports at First ski resort
Take the Grindelwald-First gondola for stunning views
Try traditional Swiss fondue in cozy restaurants
Explore the Glacier Canyon
Visit the sports center for indoor activities
Take scenic walks through flower-filled meadows

A Personal Journey in Grindelwald, Switzerland

My May visit to Grindelwald revealed the village at its springtime best. The journey from Lucerne took 2.5 hours by train, with a scenic transfer at Interlaken. The absence of towering buildings allows nature to take center stage, creating an immediate sense of peace and freedom. Most of my time was spent wandering the charming streets, savoring local cheese fondue, and browsing the exquisite Swiss timepieces that the region is famous for.

Whether you’re drawn to winter sports, summer hiking, or simply soaking in Alpine beauty, Grindelwald offers year-round attractions for every type of traveler. This Swiss gem combines outdoor adventure with traditional charm, making it an unmissable destination in the heart of the Alps.

How to Get to Grindelwald

Reaching Grindelwald is straightforward, thanks to Switzerland’s efficient transportation network.

Fly into Zurich or Geneva International Airport: From either airport, hop on a train to Interlaken Ost, where you can transfer to a regional train heading directly to Grindelwald.
Train Connections: The journey from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald takes approximately 34 minutes to the main station or 29 minutes to Grindelwald Terminal.

Getting Around Grindelwald

Local Transportation: Grindelwald is well-connected via trains and cable cars, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like the Jungfrau and Männlichen.

Main Train Station (Grindelwald Bahnhof)

Central location on the main street
Walking distance to restaurants and shops
COOP supermarket nearby
10-minute walk to First Mountain cable car

Grindelwald Terminal

Home to the Eiger Express
15-minute journey to Eiger Glacier
Modern facilities and connection point

Additional Stations

Grund station: Gateway to Jungfrau
Firstbahn: Access to First Mountain adventures
Pfingstegg: Starting point for toboggan runs

Once in Grindelwald, walking is the best way to soak in the village’s charm. For longer distances, cable cars and buses offer convenient options.

Best Time to Visit Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a year-round destination, but your experience will depend on the season you visit.

Summer (June to August): Perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. The weather is pleasant, and the alpine trails are at their most vibrant.
Winter (December to February): A paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, Grindelwald boasts over 250 kilometers of ski slopes. Activities like sledding and snowshoeing add to the magical winter experience.

For those seeking fewer crowds and mild weather, consider visiting in late spring (May) or early autumn (September).

Where to Stay in Grindelwald

Accommodation options in Grindelwald cater to various budgets, from cozy chalets to luxurious lodges. Here are some of the best places to stay in Grindelwald:

1. Jungfrau Lodge, Annex Crystal

Location: Grindelwald City Center
Price: From $168 per night
Highlights: Conveniently located near the train station, this lodge offers stunning views of the Dreamy Hills. Ideal for winter stays with its cozy atmosphere and proximity to ski areas.

2. Spillstatthus Apartment

Location: 5-minute walk from Grindelwald train station
Price: From 240 CHF for two nights
Highlights: Perfect for families or groups, featuring a garden, heating, and a fully equipped kitchen.

3. Hotel Alpenblick

Location: Obere Gletscherstrasse
Price: From $144 per night
Highlights: Known for its delicious breakfast and scenic terrace, this hotel is a short bus ride from the village center.

Hotel Name	Address	Price	Check-in/ Check-out time	Agoda Rating	Review	Travelers/Scenarios
Jungfrau Lodge, Annex Crysta	Grindelwald City Center	$168 per stay	Check-in: 4:00 PM Check-out: 11:30 AM	8.8/10	Perfect for winter visits with a fairy-tale snowscape in the morning, complemented by hot coffee.	Ideal for winter enthusiasts, romantic trips, or travelers looking for a snowy retreat.
Spillstatthus Apartment	Grindelwald City Center	240 CHF for 2 stays	Check-in: 2:30 PM Check-out: 9:30 PM	10/10	A 5-minute walk from Grindelwald train station, with garden views, a kitchen, and flexible check-in.	Perfect for families, those seeking a quiet environment, or travelers prioritizing convenience.
Hotel Alpenblick	Obere Gletscherstrasse	$144 per night (min 2-stays)	Check-in: 4:00 PM Check-out: 11:00 AM	8.6/10	A short bus ride from Grindelwald Center, offering a rich breakfast, terrace, and fantastic hot tub.	Great for relaxation seekers, couples, or anyone wanting a peaceful getaway with good meals.

Best Activities in Grindelwald: Winter and Summer

Spending at least three days in Grindelwald is recommended to fully experience its charm. Here’s a breakdown of the top things to do in Grindelwald, tailored to each season.

Activity	Season	Highlights	Cost(CHF)
Skiing	Winter	World-class ski resorts suitable for beginners and experts.	Varies by resort; approx. 79 CHF for a day pass.
Cliff Walk at First Mountain	Winter	Breathtaking views of the Eiger and Jungfrau mountains; free attraction.	Free
Sledding at Bodmi Arena	Winter	Family-friendly sledding with stunning alpine views.	26 CHF per day; equipment rental extra.
Visit Jungfraujoch	Winter	Panoramic views from the ‘Top of Europe,’ Ice Palace, and snow activities.	Approx. 280-300 CHF for round-trip.
Hiking to Bachalpsee Alpine Lake	Summer	6-kilometer trail with crystal-clear alpine lakes reflecting the peaks.	Free (apart from transport costs to First Mountain).
Eiger Trail	Summer	Moderate hike along the Eiger’s north face with majestic views.	Free (apart from transport costs to trailhead).
First Flyer (Zip-lining)	Summer	Thrilling high-speed zip-lining from First to Schreckfeld.	29 CHF per ride; included in Adventure Package.
Mountain Carts	Summer	Exciting downhill rides with beautiful views.	19 CHF per ride; included in Adventure Package.
Rodelbahn Pfingstegg (Tobogganing)	Summer	700-meter-long summer toboggan run offering fun and scenic beauty.	6 CHF per ride.

Winter Activities in Grindelwald

1. Skiing

For snow sports enthusiasts, Grindelwald’s world-class ski resorts await. The renowned First ski resort stands as the crown jewel among local skiing destinations, while the welcoming Bodmi ski resort caters to beginners with its professional instruction and family-friendly atmosphere. With a reasonable 5-hour pass priced at CHF 147, visitors can access comprehensive facilities including cable cars, sled runs, and equipment rentals.

2. Cliff Walk at First Mountain

Embrace the winter wonderland of Grindelwald through its signature attraction, the First Cliff Walk. This engineering marvel features a suspended walkway along the mountainside, culminating in a reinforced glass platform that offers breathtaking views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Open daily from 8:00 to 15:30, this free attraction draws visitors year-round to experience the thrill of walking above the Alpine landscape.

3. Sledding at Bodmi Arena

Perfect for families, this activity combines fun with stunning alpine views.

4. Visit Jungfraujoch

No visit to Grindelwald is complete without ascending the mighty Jungfrau. This full-day excursion begins with a scenic ride aboard the historic cogwheel railway, leading to various attractions at the summit. Visitors can explore the Ice Palace (Eispalast), marvel at panoramic views from the Sphinx Terrace, and send postcards from Switzerland’s highest post office. The journey showcases the magnificent Aletsch Glacier, while summer months offer additional adventures like paragliding for the more adventurous spirits.

5. Unwind on the Dreamy Hillside

The enchanting Dreamy Hillside reveals its winter charm best from the comfort of select accommodations. Properties like Hotel Cabana and Jungfrau Lodge offer front-row seats to nature’s daily performance, where guests wake to pristine snowscapes and alpenglow-kissed peaks each morning.

6. Stroll through the Alpe Town

Wandering down Dorfstrasse, Grindelwald’s main thoroughfare, reveals the heart of this Alpine village. Traditional Swiss chalets line the street, their snow-laden roofs creating a picture-perfect winter scene. In December, the street transforms into a festive wonderland with Christmas markets and seasonal celebrations adding to the magical atmosphere.

Summer Activities in Grindelwald

1. Hiking to Bachalpsee Alpine Lake

First Mountain emerges as a summer paradise, offering diverse activities against stunning Alpine backdrops. The highlight is the Bachalpsee Alpine Lake hike, a 6-kilometer journey taking roughly an hour from First’s summit. This trail rewards hikers with mirror-like twin lakes reflecting snow-capped peaks, creating perfect picnic spots for wine and relaxation. Remember to pack essentials as Swiss trails typically lack facilitie

2. Eiger Trail

The legendary Eiger Trail presents a moderate 6-kilometer trek from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen stations. This predominantly downhill route descends 800 meters along the Eiger’s imposing north face, offering unparalleled views of one of mountaineering’s most challenging climbs. The path weaves through iconic locations including the Lauberhorn Valley and Kleine Scheidegg.

3. Adventure Sports

For thrill-seekers, First Mountain offers an array of adventure activities.

First Flyer: Glide from Schreckfeld station to First station on a flying chair, covering a distance of about 800 meters, and experience the thrill of high-speed gliding. Adventure seekers can try it (CHF 29 per ride).
First Glider: Glide from First to Schreckfeld, covering a distance of about 800 meters, taking approximately 3 minutes, suitable for experiencing nature with family. (CHF 29 per ride).
Mountain Cart: can enjoy downhill rides from Schreckfeld station, while the Trottibike Scooter offers a gentler descent from Bort station (CHF 19 each).
Trottibike Scooter: Starting from Bort station, lasting about 10 minutes, suitable for beginners to practice. (CHF 19 per ride).

The Adventure Package combines these activities with cable car access, providing excellent value with options ranging from CHF 46 to 99.

4. Rodelbahn Pfingstegg

Another summer highlight is the Rodelbahn Pfingstegg, a 760-meter alpine slide reaching speeds of 40 km/h, operating May through August for CHF 6 per ride.

5. Glacier Gorge in Grindelwald

The remarkable Gletscherschlucht Gorge stands as testament to glacial forces, featuring dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear streams. This natural wonder offers both adventure activities and peaceful walking trails through its impressive 100-meter-high cliff corridor.

Mountain Adventures in Grindelwald: A Complete Cost Guide

Ascending First Mountain and Jungfraujoch

The journey to First Mountain starts with a scenic cable car ride from Grindelwald. A one-way ticket costs approximately CHF 30-35, while a return journey ranges from CHF 68 during off-peak to CHF 72 in peak summer months (June-August).

The iconic Jungfraujoch expedition requires a more substantial investment. The journey begins in Grindelwald, combining train and cable car connections. Expect to pay CHF 38-42 for the first leg to Kleine Scheidegg, followed by CHF 100-110 to reach the summit. The complete round-trip adventure typically costs between CHF 280-300.

Travel Pass Options for Maximum Value

Swiss Travel Pass

This comprehensive pass opens up Switzerland’s entire public transportation network, including trains, buses, and ferries. A three-day second-class pass costs CHF 298, while first-class travel commands CHF 475. Beyond transportation, cardholders enjoy free entry to over 500 museums and discounted mountain transport. Perfect for travelers exploring multiple Swiss destinations.

Jungfrau Pass

Designed for intensive exploration of the Jungfrau region, this three-day pass (CHF 210) covers Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen areas. It offers unlimited travel on regional trains and cable cars, plus reduced rates for Jungfrau excursions. Ideal for visitors focusing on this spectacular Alpine region.

Grindelwald-First Day Ticket

This local pass caters to outdoor enthusiasts exploring Grindelwald and First Mountain. Peak season rates are CHF 79 for adults and CHF 45 for teenagers daily, with multi-day options offering better value. A two-day pass costs CHF 156 (adults) and CHF 88 (teenagers), while three days run CHF 232 and CHF 131 respectively. The pass includes round-trip cable car access and activity discounts.

Berner Oberland Pass

Covering the broader Berner Oberland region, this pass provides extensive access to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Jungfrau areas. Three-day passes cost CHF 298 for second class and CHF 475 for first class. Benefits include unlimited regional travel and reduced rates on alpine transport.

Winter Sports Pricing

Bodmi ski area offers excellent value for beginners and families:

Daily ski pass: CHF 26
Complete ski equipment: CHF 63 daily
Professional instruction: CHF 150 for four hours
Half-day rates available after noon

sledding in bodmi ski resort Grindelwald

The comprehensive Jungfrau ski region, including Wengen and First:

Daily ski pass: CHF 79
Basic ski equipment: CHF 69 daily
Sled rentals: CHF 19 and CHF 14 for different models

These varied pass options allow visitors to tailor their Grindelwald experience while maximizing value for their specific travel plans and preferences.

*To find more affordable ski resorts in Japan during winter vacation, please refer to The Best Budget-Friendly Ski Resorts in Japan 2024

Dining in Grindelwald

After a day of adventure, enjoy the local cuisine:

Barry’s: Famous for Swiss fondue.
Da Salvi: A go-to spot for hearty Western dishes.
COOP Supermarket: Ideal for budget travelers looking for quick meals.

Travel Tips for Visiting Grindelwald

Weather Preparation: Mountain weather is unpredictable, so pack layers and check forecasts before heading out.
Currency: The local currency is Swiss Francs (CHF). Most places accept credit cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash.
Language: While German is the primary language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Tickets and Passes: Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass or Jungfrau Pass for discounted transportation and activities.

Final Thoughts

Grindelwald is a destination that leaves a lasting impression, whether you’re skiing its slopes in winter or hiking its trails in summer. From the majestic peaks of the Jungfrau to the charming streets of the village, this alpine wonderland offers something for every traveler. Start planning your trip today and discover why Grindelwald is one of Switzerland’s most enchanting destinations.

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