Lauterbrunnen is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. A visit to this picturesque village is a memorable experience regardless of whether you decide to visit Lauterbrunnen on a day trip or stay in the village itself. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen on a budget that can help you plan your visit to this slice of heaven in Switzerland.
The region surrounding the Lauterbrunnen Valley is a hiker’s paradise. Lauterbrunnen is also one of the main transportation hubs for those planning on visiting Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, and Kleine Scheidegg.
Its scenic hiking trails, cable car rides, blooming meadows, towering cliffs, and 72 tumbling waterfalls are sights to behold. So, it is easy to understand how Lauterbrunnen Valley has inspired many poets, artists, and writers. Remember the valley of Rivendell in Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of The Rings’? That too was inspired by this stunning valley cradled in the Bernese Alps.
During our visit to Switzerland, we spent two days in Lauterbrunnen. In general, the weather in the region can be quite unpredictable. On a sunny day, people often head out to Jungfraujoch or to Schilthorn Piz Gloria. While these are amazing experiences for a clear day, they are also quite expensive.
I am guessing that if you reading this post, you are probably considering a visit to this Swiss village. So, here’s a photo-essay and a travel guide on the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen on a budget. This post also lists the details of how to reach Lauterbrunnen by train and a walking tour of nearby Interlaken.
The train journey from Zermatt to Lauterbrunnen
After spending two amazing days in Zermatt, we headed to Lauterbrunnen via train. We took the train from Zermatt and arrived in Spiez (via Visp) in just a little over two hours.
The views of Lake Thun and Spiez castle in the distance as the train approaches Spiez are mesmerizing. Following a brief stop at Spiez, we boarded the train to Interlaken OST. This short (24 mins) and scenic train journey takes its passengers through the valley along the shores of Lake Thun towards Interlaken. If you plan on heading to Lauterbrunnen, and if your train stops at both stations of Interlaken, then be sure to disembark from the train at the OST station and not at Interlaken West station.
The train journey from Interlaken OST to Lauterbrunnen is not covered by the Eurail Global Pass. This information was also posted on boards at the platforms. So we purchased tickets for this final leg of the journey at the Interlaken OST train station. The 20 min train ride from Interlaken OST to Lauterbrunnen took us along the gushing river, deep into this quieter valley located south of Interlaken.
Upon exiting the train station at Lauterbrunnen, we turned left and started walking along the main road in the direction of Staubbach Falls. Located along this main road was the hotel we stayed at – Hotel Staubbach. For more details regarding the train journey, timetables, and for purchasing train tickets, check the SBB site.
The best things to do in Lauterbrunnen on a budget:
Lauterbrunnen Valley offers plenty to do depending on your budget and interests. It’s extremely popular for adventure sports that include paragliding, base jumping (for experienced skydivers) and even a thrilling walk along Via Ferrata.
Taking the scenic cable car rides to Schilthorn and the train to Jungfraujoch are high on the bucket lists of many visiting the region. Whenever visiting Lauterbrunnen valley, be sure to check with the TI or hotel staff regarding the weather prediction and plan your hikes or cable car rides in the region accordingly.
The scenic rides are expensive and after taking several cable car rides in Zermatt, we decided to hike around Lauterbrunnen Valley instead. We had an amazing time during our visit to Lauterbrunnen as we explored the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen on a budget.
Contents
1. Explore the Lauterbrunnen Village
In the middle of Lauterbrunnen Valley lies the picturesque village of Lauterbrunnen. The name Lauterbrunnen itself reflects the magnificence of the region – Lauterbrunnen meaning ‘many springs’. This dreamy Alpine village has plenty of chalets, lush green meadows and a stunning view of snowcapped mountains and towering cliffs on each side of the valley.
One of the most prominent sights in Lauterbrunnen is that of the cascading Staubbach Falls. Hotels, cafes, souvenir shops and even a bike rental shop line up the single, busy road that runs through the middle of this village. There is also a convenient launderette located near Valley Hostel along this main road.
A leisurely stroll around the village takes visitors past typical Swiss chalets, a prominent church, the Friedhof (cemetery), meadows, tennis courts, and camping grounds. The crisp mountain air and the peaceful feel of the village can easily help visitors unwind and look forward to the adventures to come in the region.
Bikes can also be rented from the Imboden Bike store located along the main street. It’s a delight to explore the valley and some of the nearby villages by bike. The gondola to Murren also takes the bikes up to the village of Murren. From there one can head off along popular biking trails via Winteregg and Isenfluh.
2. Hike up to the viewing platform behind the Staubbach Falls
One of the most unique experiences in Lauterbrunnen is to hike up to the Stabbauch Falls and enjoy the view of the valley from the viewing platform located behind the waterfall.
To reach this viewing platform, visitors have to walk through a tunnel located near the base of the falls. Steps located at the end of this tunnel lead visitors up to a viewing platform located behind the falls. The steps are definitely slippery as they are constantly drenched by the spray from the falls. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes with a good grip when hiking to this viewing platform. The hike up to this viewing platform takes 10-15 mins but it is closed during the winter months.
The cascading Staubbach Falls are without a doubt the most impressive sight in the town of Lauterbrunnen. Falling 974 ft from the ridge above, this waterfall is considered to be the second-highest waterfall in Switzerland.
It’s interesting to learn that a major portion of these falls is actually lost in the form of spray while it falls down this great distance. A walk along the valley in the evening is a delight as these falls are often beautifully illuminated at night.
3. Visit Talmuseum Lauterbrunnen
The Lauterbrunnen Valley Folk Museum located just behind the church is a small and interesting museum. A visit to this museum gives one a chance to learn more about the history and culture of the village. Over 100+ years of artifacts including woven baskets, lacework, various types of skis and cowbells help visitors gain a historic perspective of the region.
4. Enjoy walking along the Lauterbrunnen Valley trail
One of the most relaxing and easy trails in the region is the pleasant walk along the Lauterbrunnen Valley. This family-friendly trail starts from Lauterbrunnen and ends at Stechelberd. The trail takes hikers past Alpine meadows, along the river and occasionally along the somewhat busy road all the way to Stechelberg. It’s always possible to hike just a section of the trail and cover the other portion by taking the regional bus. This hike from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg can easily be completed in under two hours. A hike along this trail also brings one to the popular Trummelbach Falls midway.
Walking along the Lauterbrunnen Valley trail, one gets to see the striking view of Breithorn at the end of the valley and several nearby waterfalls. After all, Lauterbrunnen Valley is known as the valley of 72 waterfalls. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll along this trail – the stunning scenery and the distant sound of cowbells added to the magic of this picturesque Alpine setting.
5. Get ready to be awed by the stunning Trümmelbach Falls
Trümmelbach Falls are the most powerful waterfalls in the region. What’s unique about these falls is that they are located inside a mountain.
The melting glacial waters of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau feed these roaring falls.
A steep elevator ride, walkways, and viewing platforms offer visitors a chance to witness these majestic falls. Illuminated pathways and ten viewing points inside the mountain lead visitors to vantage points that help one see how these falls have carved their way down the mountain.
The roaring sound of the water inside the cavernous tunnels give visitors a sense of the raw power of these falls. The walkways can be slippery, so be careful as you explore Trümmelbach.
6. Relax and take in the majestic views of the valley in Stechelberg
The sleepy village of Stechelberg nestled in the corner of the valley is the perfect stop for a meal after hiking the Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail. The cable car station near Stechelberg shuttles visitors up to the cable car station of the charming village of Gimmelwald. There are a few hotels in Stechelberg but they do get booked out pretty quickly. If you prefer to stay in Stechelberg during your visit to Lauterbrunnen valley, then be sure to book ahead.
7. Head off for an amazing hiking adventure in the region
Lauterbrunnen Valley is a hiker’s paradise. There are several hiking trails along the cliffs on either side of the valley that offer an economical way of exploring the beauty of the region.
We loved hiking along the North Face Trail starting from Allmedbhubel to Murren. We further continued this hiking adventure from Murren to Stechelberg via Gimmelwald. Our hike that day took us through 17 miles of spectacular Alpine scenery. This hike truly helped us experience the Switzerland of our dreams and I would highly recommend it to those visiting the region.
Other popular hiking trails in the region include the demanding hike from Schynige Platte to First and from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg. In general, mountain hiking trails can be slippery in places so be sure to wear sturdy shoes, pack plenty of snacks, water and get ready to enjoy the most scenic views of the Bernese Alps.
Hiking gear can also be rented from Alpia Sport store which is located along the main street of Lauterbrunnen. Additionally, I found the Jungfrau website very helpful for finding the timings for cable cars and planning our hiking path accordingly.
8. Explore the villages of Wengen, Murren, and Gimmelwald
The beautiful villages of Wengen, Murren and Gimmelwald are a must-see when one visits Lauterbrunnen. A train from the Lauterbrunnen train station takes passengers to Wengen. Alternatively, one can choose to hike the short but steep trail from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen. The views of the valley and the Staubbach Falls from Wengen are breathtaking.
Murren and Gimmelwald are located on top of the ridge from where Staubbach Falls cascade. These delightful, off the beaten path Alpine villages, are a joy to explore. There are hotels located in Murren and hostels and pension in Gimmelwald that are popular with tourists visiting the region.
9. Enjoy delicious traditional Swiss food
We stopped by restaurant Weidstübli in Lauterbrunnen as the hotel we were staying at had recommended it. This restaurant is loved by locals and tourists alike and it is best to make reservations ahead of time before visiting the restaurant. It is located just near the entrance of the camping grounds, past the Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen.
The food and service were great and the price was quite reasonable as well. We had ordered cheese fondue and Rosti and loved it.
10. Visit the nearby town of Interlaken on a half-day trip
We preferred staying in the quieter Lauterbrunnen rather than the busier, nearby town of Interlaken. However, when visiting the Lauterbrunnen valley, be sure to explore the nearby Interlaken as well.
Interlaken is very popular with tourists. It’s no wonder that there are plenty of hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops catering to the tourists in Interlaken. Interlaken serves as the perfect springboard for those wishing to explore nearby Grindelwald, Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch and Harderkulm.
Frequent trains run daily between Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken Ost. We decided to explore Interlaken by following the excellent walking tour listed in Rick Steves Switzerland guidebook.
Our walking tour of Interlaken
For an easy walking tour of Interlaken, start the walk from the west train station towards Bahnhofstrasse. A plethora of fine shops, boutiques and souvenir shops line this famous, shopping street of Interlaken. We thoroughly enjoyed indulging in some delicious Swiss chocolate at Läderach.
After walking along Bahnhofstrasse, it was fun to relax in Höhematte Park while watching paragliders land in its expansive meadow. This park is located in the heart of Interlaken and is surrounded by some of the fanciest hotels in the region.
Continuing the walk past the Höhematte Park, one comes across Casino Kursaal and its well-tended gardens. After exploring the gardens, we walked towards the Aare River that connects Lake Brienz with Lake Thun. While crossing the river via a pedestrian bridge, I just couldn’t get over the beautiful turquoise hues of this river.
Unterseen – the historic town located north of Aare Rive
This peaceful riverside walk in Interlaken took us away from the more touristy part of Interlaken towards Unterseen – the historic town located north of Aare River.
It was fun to walk along the charming medieval alleys of Unterseen and shop at its grocery stores. We enjoyed a delicious dinner at Restaurant Shanthi in Unterseen before heading back to Lauterbrunnen.
If you plan on heading towards Switzerland, consider a visit to Lauterbrunnen. The stunning scenery, hiking trails, and quaint nearby villages are a must-see in this region of Bernese Oberland. While Switzerland can be quite expensive, it is definitely possible to experience some of the best things in Lauterbrunnen on a budget.
Lauterbrunnen valley is truly one of the most scenic places in Switzerland! It offers a wide range of outdoor activities that one can indulge in depending on their interests and budget. I think I left my heart back in Lauterbrunnen Valley and long to return to the region to explore it some.
Until next time ….. Adieu dear Lauterbrunnen!
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Hello ! I’m Aditi …..
Welcome to Land Of Travels – a travel blog that my husband Manish and I started to share our travel stories and travel tips. We are full-time professionals, dedicated parents, foodies, and it is our shared passion for traveling that lead us to become part-time bloggers.
I was born and brought up in Northern India, lived in Bay Area, California for nearly two decades and currently reside in Ontario, Canada. Since childhood, I’ve always had a passion to travel far & wide and experience different cultures. I am passionate about planning our trips and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
My sincere hope is that the travel tips offered on this blog will help you plan your next memorable adventure.
Happy travels!
~ Aditi Sharma ~
What did you purchase for transportation? I get confused with all the options. Is there a pass you recommend? I’ll be in Lauterbrunnen for 2 nights and would like the visit the nearby towns you mentioned. I’d love any tips you could give on train travel.
We relied on the local train that runs between Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen for getting to and fro those two locations. For getting around to Murren/Gimmewald there are cable cars available or if you enjoy hiking, there are some really scenic hiking trails as well. We loved hiking in the region – hiking along the North Face Trail was a delight in itself.
Visiting Lauterbrunnen in August. Any idea how the weather would be? Our concern is whether we will be stuck indoors in rain. We have a 9yr old and 3 ye old with us. Have always wanted to visit this place. Reminds me of Riverendell from Lord of the Rings.
The Lauterbrunnen Valley is believed to be the inspiration for Tolkien’s Rivendell. The weather is generally quite comfortable during August with mostly sunny days – however, before planning any day excursions from Lauterbrunnen – such as to Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn – it is recommended by locals to check the weather report for the possibility of rain or cloud coverage before visiting.
I love visiting this part of Switzerland. Lauterbrunnen I have done the waterfall here and also ran the Jungfrau marathon here, such an amazing valley to explore.I also love the trail paths and the views from above the small alpine town and will never forget the experiences here.
Gorgeous! This just might go on my travel wish list.
Omg!!! The pictures are wonderful. Love each and every bit of it. Looks like you had a wonderful time . Switzerland is in my bucket list .
I’ve never traveled there, but this post really makes me want to put it on my bucket list for sure! Thanks 😊
It is indeed beautiful… The pictures of the villages look so lively and vibrant. I just loved reading it.
I’ve never been to Switzerland because I always thought it would be too expensive. But it’s great to hear you can do it on a budget as well. I love hiking and exploring cute little villages, so it’s great to read that I could do that as a free form of entertainment. I’m definitely saving this post to help me save some money when I finally get to visit Switzerland!
Hiking near Lauterbrunnen and visiting those villages along the way was one of the highlights of our trip to Switzerland. The hike was so beautiful that we lost track of time and distance – we just kept going and going as the stunning scenery beckoned us to explore further.
This is just out of a picture frame that has those pretty Swiss villages’ landscape. I am in love with Lauterbrunnen Valley and I will surely include this in my Switzerland itinerary without fail. And wait, you got Dosa there?
Oh yes, the dosa was a pleasant surprise – we found that restaurant in nearby Interlaken. We have fond memories of our visit to Lauterbrunnen and look forward to returning.
Just Amazing. How can you do it? It is such an awesome post and I really enjoyed reading it. I will continue to read your content in the future.
These are such beautiful experiences. And, your photos look like straight from a movie scene. It seems you guys will break into a song! 🙂
Definitely felt like a dream being there! Glad you enjoyed reading the post.
I’ve been St. Moritz, Zurich, and Geneva, but haven’t been able to experience the beauty and majesty of a place like Lauterbrunnen. It looks like that’s a place to access those quintessentially Swiss landscapes that I often dreamt about before ever setting foot in Switzerland. I’m going to have to go back and check this out!
Visiting this valley felt like visiting the Switzerland of our dreams – beautiful vistas, lovely hikes…couldn’t have asked for a more serene surrounding. Thanks for visiting the blog.
These photos are incredibly stunning! You have such an eye for color! And Switzerland really is one of my favourite places ever!
Thank you for your kind message. I am glad you enjoyed viewing the post.
Such a beautiful place! And a beautiful photo story as well. Loved the perspective of the Trümmelbach Falls. And everything else too! (See it’s so hard to choose 😛 )
The beauty of the region is hard to describe. It is stunning and since we love hiking, this was the perfect base for us to explore the Bernese Alps.
Truly, Lauterbrunnen is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland that I’m as well really agree about. I love how this place offers so much innate beauty of nature that is beyond compare. Moreover, it is serene, and seems like a perfect to retire. Thank you so much for sharing this.
Thank you Ariel. We were captivated by the scenery and look forward to revisiting Lauterbrunnen and exploring the nearby hiking trails some more.
omg I’ve ALWAYS wanted to visit Switzerland, and if I ever did I would HAVE to do it on a budget lol. So thank you for the tips! Pinning for later.
What a beautiful place to find yourself. I love to hike and be in nature so everything that you have described sounds like the perfect day to me. And who could ever refuse cheese fondue???
I worked in Switzerland for 3 years and there are so many spots – like this one – that I did not get to. Like the rest of Switzerland Lauterbrunnen looks incredibly beautiful 9and clean) and I just want to lay down a blanket and sleep on that green, green grass!
Thanks for sharing usefull information.i feel like i just visited this place after reading your blog.
What stunning photos of Lauterbrunnen. I can’t believe there are 72 waterfalls! The scenic views look amazing and I really like the little villages amongst the mountains. I would love to visit this part of Switzerland. Lovely post.
We actually visited Lauterbrunnen as a day trip from Interlaken which is a pity because I see that we could have spent some more time here. The region definitely is very idyllic, with the scenic hiking trails and waterfalls. It is quintessentially Swiss- such beautiful green rolling hills are a treat for the eyes!
I love this post. Lauterbrunnen looks so charming. I would love exploring the town, and that hike up to the falls looks dreamy!!
Wow, Lauterbrunnen is really beautiful. I know that Switzerland is crazy expensive so visiting on a budget is appreciated! Staubbach Falls are beautiful too, and I’d love to walk the Lauterbrunnen Valley trail. Your photos also do the place justice!
Thank you Lisa. Glad you enjoyed reading the post. The beauty of the region is hard to capture in photographs – so serene and breathtaking. Thanks for visiting the post.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful piece of information online. I really enjoyed reading through this. I will definitely share it on social media.
This is what exactly I was looking for. My brother wants to go hiking in Switzerland and I was looking for small villages to visit and hiking at the same time.
Lauterbrunnen Valley and the region nearby is a hiker’s paradise – plenty of trails of varying difficulties to suit ones need. Hiking in the region was a highlight for us.
The place looks amazing. I have been to Lauterbrunnen once few years ago and I have to say that Lauterbrunnen amazed me. I personally think it’s one of the best places in Switzerland and your pictures say it too.
I love that opening photo up at the top there, it’s gorgeous. This place has officially been added to my bucket-list!
Your experience looks so beautiful! I adore the nature of Switzerland, the waterfalls and greenery as well as mountains. I would also buy a ton of chocolates!
This place looks so beautiful. Maybe one day I can visit.
I definitely agree with you. Lauterbrunnen is indeed a paradise and I also left my heart there. However, I just went there for a day trip from Interlaken. I can’t wait till I write about my trip to Lauterbrunnen too! 🙂
This was such an informational post! Switzerland is on my destination wish list… I will save this to refer to when I’m ready to plan my trip!
Thanks. Glad you found the post informative.
The scenery is amazing. I’d love to travel for a week in Lauterbrunnen to unwind and spend a lot of time in nature, hiking in my own rhythm. The waterfall is beautiful, it’s incredible how close it is from the town.
Indeed – the waterfall is the most prominent feature of Lauterbrunnen. Thanks for visiting the blog.
This reeeeally does look like a hiker’s paradise Aditi! You must have had so much fun!!
I have seen photos of Staubbach Falls, but I had no idea you could walk up to see the view from behind them! Trümmelbach Falls look amaaaazing too! They must be epic to see in the springtime!!
We had an amazing time in Lauterbrunnen – not only was hiking an economical way to spend time in the region, it gave us the chance to witness spectacular views all around. I can’t wait to return and hike around some more.
Aw man.. Switzerland is high on our list! I can’t wait to experience this gorgeous scenery firsthand! And now I have some ideas on where to go 🙂
Glad you enjoyed reading the post. The beauty of the region is hard to describe in words – highly recommend a visit to Bernese Oberland, especially Lauterbrunnen and the nearby villages.
The photos in this post sold me, what a gorgeous place to visit!
Thank you!
Lauterbrunnen sounds like the perfect spot to stay
I prefer quieter areas and I love the fact that there are so many hiking trails.
This place looks *exactly* the way a small Swiss village should look! So picturesque! I’d love to see the waterfalls, and to do some hiking. I’d NEED the hiking to work off all the chocolate and yummy food I’d eat there!
My thoughts exactly Jim. Words fall short when trying to describe the beauty of the region and its trails. Thanks for the kind note and for visitng the post.
I love your travel tips on a budget. I really enjoy finding activities that don’t cost an arm and a leg while traveling. Bonus if they involve great views and some physical activity! Great post and your pictures are incredible!
Thank you so much and I am glad you enjoyed reading the post. Switzerland can be quite expensive in general but with such amazing hiking trails, it’s easy to have an incredible time on a budget as well.
Lauterbrunnen is such a great place to visit. I was mesmerized with everything: the valley, the town, the hillsides, and the falls! Your photos are awesome. Only been to st. Gallen in Switzerland.
I would love to visit St. Gallen – haven’t been there yet. Glad you enjoyed reading the post. Lauterbrunnen is truly postcard-pretty. Definitely a must-see!
I love water falls! 72, that’s incredible. I also love how this location continues to inspire creativity. Thanks for sharing about this beautiful destination.
You’re welcome. Glad you enjoyed reading the post.
Lauterbrunnen is one of my favourite Swiss villages. I’ve been there numerous times and it still blows me away. I love Staubbach Falls just casually hanging out in the village 😛
Staubbach Falls are quite a sight, right??! Especially in summer months. We look forward to returning to Lauterbrunnen, hopefully soon. Thanks for visiting the post.
I added this to my bucket list Aditi. Lord of the rings is one of my favorites movies. I enjoyed all the pictures you shared and the quiet stunning views of the village. The beauty of nature along your hikes is excellent to look at. Hope in our older age we can tick these lists to visit Europe.
Hiking in this region is such a delight and there are trails of varying levels of difficulty. So I hope whenever you visit Switzerland, you will plan on visiting this region too – highly recommend it!
Wow, your pictures are stunning! What a great place to hike and love the waterfalls. I would scarf down that fondue so fast lol. And you found great dosas.
We really felt that Lauterbrunnen was a lovely base for exploring Bernese Oberland -such a lovely destination. Thanks for visiting the post.
Lauterbrunnen is so picturesque. Love the picture of the village. The village looks so calm and peaceful. Falls look adventurous especially Tummelbach falls. I was superhappy to see Dosa on the plate 😊
Lauterbrunnen Valley is stunning! Finding dosa in Interlaken was definitely fun and it was really delicious as well.