Grindelwald is located in one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking regions, offering visitors a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. With 20 things to see and experience, including the spectacular Grindelwald First Cliff Walk, this charming village is a must-visit destination on any trip to Switzerland. Whether you arrive by train from Interlaken or drive to Grindelwald by car, the journey itself offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and sets the stage for an unforgettable mountain experience.
Planning your trip to Grindelwald is made easy with frequent bus and train connections, making it well-connected to major Swiss cities while maintaining its authentic Alpine charm. The village serves as an excellent base for exploring the region, with the famous First Grindelwald gondola whisking visitors away to adventures like the Cliff Walk and hiking trails.
🏡 Where to Stay in Grindelwald
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Bergwelt Grindelwald - Alpine Design Resort
- ✨ 5-Star: Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Caprice
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Sonnenberg
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Tschuggen
- 🏢 Apartment: Hotel Blümlisalp
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Eiger
🗺️ Best Guided Tours
- Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich from €289 (⭐ 4.5/5)
- Swiss Alps Day Trip: Jungfraujoch and Bernese Oberland from €279 (⭐ 4.6/5)
- Mt First Admission in Grindelwald from €89 (⭐ 4.8/5)
- Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Ticket from €185 (⭐ 4.7/5)
Top 10 Attractions in Grindelwald
1. 🏔️ First Cliff Walk
Thrilling heights. The First Cliff Walk by Tissot is one of Grindelwald’s most spectacular attractions, featuring a metal walkway that seems to float alongside the mountain face. The 45-meter-long observation platform offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, making it one of the top things to do in the Swiss Alps. The experience is completely free once you’ve taken the cable car to First mountain.
Adventure time. The walkway combines heart-pumping thrills with stunning alpine scenery, creating an unforgettable experience in the Bernese Oberland. The metal grating beneath your feet adds an extra element of excitement as you gaze down at the valley below, while informative panels along the way explain the surrounding geology and wildlife.
2. ⛰️ Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Alpine wonder. The journey to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 meters, is a bucket-list experience that showcases the best of the Swiss Alps. From Grindelwald, you can reach the Top of Europe via the new Eiger Express cable car to Eigergletscher station, followed by a scenic train ride through the mountain. The summit offers spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in Europe.
Mountain magic. At the top, visitors can explore the Ice Palace, visit the Sphinx Observatory, and enjoy snow activities even in summer. The complex includes several restaurants serving Swiss specialties, and on clear days, the visibility extends as far as Germany’s Black Forest and France’s Vosges mountains.
⭐ Best Activities
Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich – Experience an unforgettable journey to Europe’s highest train station on this full-day tour. Visit the Sphinx Observatory, explore the Ice Palace, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation terrace.
3. 🚡 Männlichen Cable Car
Scenic ride. The Männlichen Cable Car offers one of the most spectacular ascents in the region, taking you from Grindelwald to the 2,343-meter summit in just 15 minutes. The modern gondola system provides 360-degree views of the Grindelwald valley and surrounding peaks during the journey. From the top, you can access numerous hiking trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Eiger North Face.
Mountain activities. The summit area features a Royal Walk to a viewing platform, a children’s playground, and several mountain restaurants. In winter, it’s a popular starting point for ski runs, while in summer, it’s the beginning of the famous Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg hiking trail.
4. 💧 Bachalpsee Lake
Alpine mirror. The Bachalpsee Lake, reached by an easy hike from First station, is one of the most photographed locations in Grindelwald. The crystal-clear alpine lake perfectly reflects the surrounding mountains on calm days, creating a natural mirror effect that captures the majesty of the Swiss Alps. The hike from First to Bachalpsee takes about 50 minutes and is suitable for all fitness levels.
Natural beauty. The lake is actually two bodies of water connected by a small stream, offering different perspectives of the mountain landscape. During summer, the surrounding alpine meadows burst with colorful wildflowers, while in winter, the frozen lake creates a magical snow-covered landscape.
5. 🥾 Eiger Trail
Legendary path. The Eiger Trail is a spectacular hiking route that takes you right to the base of the famous Eiger North Face, one of the most challenging climbing walls in the Alps. Starting from Eigergletscher station, this well-marked trail offers incredible close-up views of the imposing mountain face while descending to Alpiglen. The trail covers 6 kilometers and takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
Mountain drama. Along the way, you’ll pass beneath towering cliffs, see climbers attempting the notorious north face, and learn about the mountain’s climbing history through information boards. The trail is best hiked from June to October when it’s free of snow.
6. 🎢 Pfingstegg
Summer fun. Pfingstegg offers a unique combination of adventure and stunning views, featuring a popular summer toboggan run that stretches for 736 meters. The site is easily reached via a cable car from the center of Grindelwald, providing spectacular views of the Lower Grindelwald Glacier and surrounding peaks. The toboggan run is a thrilling experience for both adults and children.
Mountain activities. Beyond the toboggan run, Pfingstegg serves as a starting point for several hiking trails and offers a restaurant with panoramic views of the valley. The viewing platform provides excellent photo opportunities of the Grindelwald valley and the impressive mountain backdrop.
7. 🌊 Glacier Canyon
Natural wonder. The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon is a remarkable natural formation carved by the Lower Grindelwald Glacier over millions of years. The canyon features walkways attached to the rock walls that allow visitors to safely explore this unique geological formation. The rushing waters and exposed rock layers tell the story of the glacier’s power and the region’s geological history.
Adventure features. The canyon includes exciting features like the “Spider Web” – a net suspended over the gorge – and the “Canyon Swing,” one of the most thrilling attractions in Grindelwald. The site is accessible year-round and is particularly impressive after rainfall when the waterfalls are at their most powerful.
⭐ Best Activities
Canyon Swing Experience in Grindelwald – Experience an adrenaline-pumping 90-meter freefall at speeds of 120 km/h over a stunning glacier canyon. This thrilling adventure includes professional guides, safety equipment, and spectacular views of the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks. The activity lasts about 3 hours and includes a complimentary drink afterward.
8. 🛵 First Mountain Cart
Downhill excitement. The First Mountain Cart offers an exhilarating way to descend from Schreckfeld to Bort, combining the thrill of go-karting with stunning alpine scenery. These three-wheeled carts are easy to operate and provide a unique perspective of the Grindelwald valley. The track is 3 kilometers long and offers plenty of twists and turns to keep things exciting.
Safe adventure. While thrilling, the carts are designed with safety in mind and include good brakes and comfortable seating. The activity is available during the summer season and can be combined with other First attractions for a full day of mountain adventures.
⭐ Best Activities
Mt First Admission in Grindelwald – Experience breathtaking mountain views with this cable car ride to Mt. First. Access various adventure activities including the First Cliff Walk, First Flyer zipline, and mountain cart rides. The ticket includes round-trip cable car transportation from Grindelwald to First, perfect for those seeking both scenic views and adventure activities in the Swiss Alps.
9. 🚂 Kleine Scheidegg
Historic crossroads. Kleine Scheidegg, situated at 2,061 meters, is a mountain pass that serves as a crucial junction for trains heading to Jungfraujoch. The historic railway station and hotel complex offer spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. It’s a popular destination for both hikers and train enthusiasts.
Mountain hub. The area features several restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine, and in winter, it becomes a major ski station. The location provides excellent views of climbers attempting the Eiger and serves as a starting point for numerous hiking trails.
⭐ Best Activities
Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich – Experience an unforgettable journey to Europe’s highest train station on this full-day tour. Visit the Sphinx Observatory, explore the Ice Palace, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation terrace.
10. 🚠 Grindelwald-First Gondola
Scenic ascent. The Grindelwald-First Gondola is your gateway to many of the area’s top attractions, carrying visitors from the village to the First summit station at 2,168 meters. The 25-minute journey offers breathtaking views of the Grindelwald valley and surrounding peaks. The modern gondola system operates year-round, weather permitting.
Adventure base. First station serves as the starting point for numerous activities including the Cliff Walk, hiking to Bachalpsee, mountain carting, and in winter, skiing and snowboarding. The summit features a panoramic restaurant and is the perfect base for photographing the surrounding alpine landscape.
⭐ Best Activities
Mt First Admission in Grindelwald – Experience breathtaking mountain views with this cable car ride to Mt. First. Access various adventure activities including the First Cliff Walk, First Flyer zipline, and mountain cart rides. The ticket includes round-trip cable car transportation from Grindelwald to First, perfect for those seeking both scenic views and adventure activities in the Swiss Alps.
Things to Do in Grindelwald with Kids
1. 🛵 First Mountain Cart
Mountain adventure. The First Mountain Cart experience, one of the top attractions in Grindelwald, offers an exciting downhill ride from Schreckfeld to Bort that’s perfect for families with children aged 8 and up. The 3-kilometer descent offers stunning panoramic views of the Grindelwald valley and can be easily reached from Grindelwald by taking the First Gondola, making it a must-visit activity when traveling Switzerland with kids.
⭐ Best Activities
Mt First Admission in Grindelwald – Experience breathtaking mountain views with this cable car ride to Mt. First. Access various adventure activities including the First Cliff Walk, First Flyer zipline, and mountain cart rides. The ticket includes round-trip cable car transportation from Grindelwald to First, perfect for those seeking both scenic views and adventure activities in the Swiss Alps.
2. 🛷 Pfingstegg Toboggan Run
Summer thrills. The Pfingstegg Toboggan Run, located just a short cable car ride from the village of Grindelwald, offers a thrilling 736-meter descent that’s perfect for families looking for things to do around Grindelwald. The modern toboggan run features safe, comfortable sleds with reliable brakes, allowing riders to control their speed while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding Alps and the Lower Grindelwald Glacier.
3. 🏔️ Glacier Gorge
Natural wonder. The Glacier Gorge (Gletscherschlucht) is one of Grindelwald’s most fascinating attractions, featuring a 1-kilometer walkway through impressive rock galleries and tunnels that showcases the power of glacial erosion over millions of years. The highlight for children is the 170-square-meter “Spider Web” net suspended 7 meters above the rushing Lütschine river, offering a unique and exciting way to experience the gorge.
Canyon Swing Experience in Grindelwald – Experience an adrenaline-pumping 90-meter freefall at speeds of 120 km/h over a stunning glacier canyon. This thrilling adventure includes professional guides, safety equipment, and spectacular views of the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks. The activity lasts about 3 hours and includes a complimentary drink afterward.
Free Things to Do in Grindelwald
1. 🚶♂️ Village Walking Tour
Local exploration. A self-guided walking tour through the town of Grindelwald offers a perfect introduction to this charming Swiss village, where traditional chalets and modern amenities blend seamlessly against a backdrop of dramatic Alpine peaks. As you stroll through the village, you’ll discover local restaurants in Grindelwald, quaint shops selling Swiss crafts, and numerous photo opportunities of the surrounding mountains.
2. 📸 Photography at Scenic Viewpoints
Picture perfect. Grindelwald is known for its incredible panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, and finding the perfect photo spot costs absolutely nothing. The view of Grindelwald from various points around the village offers stunning vistas of the Eiger North Face, particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the mountains are bathed in golden light.
3. 🥾 Hiking Local Trails
Mountain paths. Grindelwald has plenty of free hiking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty, from easy valley walks to more challenging mountain paths. The well-marked trail network allows you to hike back to Grindelwald from various points, offering different perspectives of the village and surrounding peaks.
4. 🪂 Watch Paragliders Land
Aerial spectacle. One of the most entertaining free activities in Grindelwald is watching paragliders descend from the surrounding mountains and land in the designated area near the sports center. The landing field provides an excellent vantage point to observe these graceful flights against the backdrop of the Eiger, particularly during good weather in Grindelwald when dozens of colorful paragliders dot the sky.
Seasonal Activities in Grindelwald
❄️ Winter
Winter wonderland. Winter in Grindelwald transforms the village into a magical snow-covered paradise, offering some of the best winter sports opportunities in the region of Switzerland. The area boasts extensive ski runs suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts, while the First ski area provides excellent conditions for snowboarding and winter hiking. The Christmas market in December brings festive charm to the village, with local crafts and traditional Swiss treats.
Alpine adventure. The winter season also offers unique experiences like night sledding, ice skating on natural rinks, and cozy evenings in traditional Swiss restaurants. The clear winter days provide spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, making it the perfect time for photography and enjoying the pristine mountain atmosphere.
🌸 Spring
Spring awakening. As winter snow begins to melt, Grindelwald comes alive with blooming Alpine flowers and the return of hiking season. The First Cliff Walk Grindelwald becomes increasingly popular as weather conditions improve, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Spring is also an excellent time to visit Grindelwald by train, with fewer tourists and more moderate temperatures.
Shoulder season. The shoulder season brings special deals on accommodations in Grindelwald and unique opportunities to experience both winter and summer activities. Watching paragliders soar against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks while standing in a meadow of spring flowers creates unforgettable memories.
☀️ Summer
Summer adventures. Summer is the peak season for hiking from First station, mountain biking, and enjoying outdoor activities like the First Flyer and First Glider. The warm weather makes it perfect for exploring the Grindelwald area on foot, with numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes. The First Cliff Walk experience is particularly spectacular on clear summer days.
Festivals and events. The village buzzes with energy as outdoor restaurants spill onto sunny terraces and mountain railways operate at full capacity. Summer evenings bring special events and festivals, making it an ideal time to experience the local culture and traditional Swiss hospitality.
🍁 Autumn
Fall colors. Autumn in Grindelwald offers a spectacular display of colors as the larch trees turn golden and the first dustings of snow appear on the mountain peaks. This is the perfect time for hiking back down to Grindelwald through forests ablaze with fall colors, while the crisp air provides excellent visibility for photography. The First Cliff Walk and other attractions remain open, offering a more peaceful experience than during the summer months.
Early winter sports. The seasonal transition brings unique opportunities to enjoy both mild weather activities and early winter sports. Local festivals celebrate the return of cattle from mountain pastures, and restaurants feature seasonal specialties made with fresh local ingredients.
Day Trips from Grindelwald
1. 🌆 Interlaken
Adventure capital. Interlaken, easily accessible by train from Grindelwald, is known as Switzerland’s adventure capital and offers an incredible mix of adrenaline-pumping activities and scenic beauty. From the moment you arrive, you can choose from activities like paragliding over the lakes, taking a boat tour on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, or enjoying the panoramic views from Harder Kulm.
⭐ Best Activities
Paragliding Experience from Beatenberg in Interlaken – Experience an unforgettable tandem paragliding flight over Interlaken with stunning views of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The adventure includes transport to Beatenberg launch site, safety briefing, and 10-20 minutes of flight time with a certified pilot.
2. 🏞️ Lauterbrunnen
Valley views. Lauterbrunnen, one of the most picturesque places to visit near Grindelwald, is famous for its 72 waterfalls and dramatic valley setting that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Rivendell. The village is easily reached by train from Grindelwald via Kleine Scheidegg or Zweilütschinen, and the journey itself offers spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. The highlight of any visit is the magnificent Staubbach Falls, which drops 297 meters from the valley’s edge.
3. 🚂 Wengen
Mountain charm. Wengen, a car-free village perched on a sunny plateau above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, is accessible by taking the train from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg and then descending to this charming mountain haven. The journey offers some of the most spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, while the village itself provides a perfect base for hiking in summer or skiing in winter.
FAQ About Place to Visit in Grindelwald, Switzerland ❓
What’s the best way to get to Grindelwald and experience the famous First Cliff Walk during different weather conditions?
Grindelwald is easily accessible by train from Interlaken (30 minutes) or by car, and the First Cliff Walk is best experienced on a clear day. The First Flieger and Cliff Walk are located at Grindelwald First, reached by a 25-minute cable car ride from the village center.
How can I plan a trip to Grindelwald that includes both the Glacier Canyon and the village’s top attractions?
Start with the First Cliff Walk and adventure activities like the First Flieger at Grindelwald First, then visit the Glacier Canyon which is just a 30-minute walk from Grindelwald village. The village offers 16 different attractions worth visiting, making it a great base for exploring the region.
When is the best time to visit Grindelwald First and explore the Swiss village’s scenic highlights?
The best time to visit is during summer (late May to early October) when the First Flieger and other adventure activities are operating. Plan your visit on a clear day for the best views from the First Cliff Walk and consider going early in the morning to avoid crowds.
