Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland, is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque alpine villages. Encircled by stunning peaks, including the renowned Eiger, it serves as a perfect starting point for exploring some of the region’s most celebrated mountain destinations. This picture-perfect village offers guests an array of things to do, from revitalizing hikes and skiing opportunities to jaunts to awe-inspiring viewpoints (seriously, you won’t find scenery like this anywhere else in Europe!).
High in traditional Swiss alpine culture, Grindelwald charms both nature lovers and those guests searching for an authentic taste of idyllic mountain living. With excellent transport connections and a variety of activities all year-round, we count Grindelwald among the must-visit destinations of the Swiss Alps.
If you are traveling in Switzerland and would like to see highlights of the country’s enchanting alpine regions in the company of an expert guide, book a place on our Swiss Alps Day Trip: Grindelwald, Jungfraujoch, & Lauterbrunnen Tour.
Towering above the village of Grindelwald is the North Face of the Eiger, an iconic, 3,967-metre, mountain – this is some of the most dramatic mountain scenery found anywhere. For a truly exhilarating experience, don’t miss the First Cliff Walk by Tissot Grindelwald—a steel walkway that hangs high above the valley, providing an unforgettable perspective on the towering peaks surrounding it.
Another highlight is the Glacier Gorge, where visitors can cross a dramatic ravine sculpted by glacial waters, complete with observation platforms from where to take breathtaking photos. With its prime location, Grindelwald also offers easy access to scenic trails and cable cars, making it a breeze for everyone to explore and enjoy the area’s remarkable landscapes.
That said, there is simply no more convenient way to explore the Swiss Alps than by taking a private tour. Check out our selection of Day Tours in the Swiss Alps.
Looking to benefit from the revitalizing effects of time spent in nature? You couldn’t pick a better destination than Grindelwald, where the sky seems to go on forever and the mountain air is fresh as can be. In summer, hiking is a highlight, with trails that range from beginner-friendly routes to more challenging paths. The First to Bachalpsee Trail is a popular choice, providing a manageable hike with rewarding views of the lake and surrounding peaks. For adrenaline junkies, paragliding offers a bird’s-eye view of the village and valley. Mountain biking is another favorite activity, with trails catering to all skill levels.
In wintertime, meanwhile, Grindelwald transforms into a mecca for winter sports. The Grindelwald-Wengen ski area and Jungfrau Ski Region offer well-groomed slopes for skiing and snowboarding, as well as scenic sledding routes. Snowshoeing trails provide a quieter way to explore the winter landscape, ideal for those who want to savor the Alpine scenery at a slower pace.
Grindelwald’s location makes it an excellent base from which to explore the Bernese Oberland. A short train ride brings you to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” where you can walk through an ice tunnel and enjoy panoramic views of glaciers and peaks.
Another nearby destination is Schynige Platte, accessible by a scenic cogwheel train that offers stunning vistas and an alpine garden showcasing native plants. For those seeking gentle hikes and more incredible scenery, the gondola to Männlichen is a must. From there, trails like the Royal Walk provide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Finally, Grindelwald is not far from the fairytale city of Lucerne. If you’re fascinated by history and love to meander along streets brimming with old-world charm, you must add Lucerne to your Switzerland travel itinerary. Explore our Day Tours of Lucerne and the Swiss Alps for a flavor of what to expect.
Grindelwald is deeply rooted in Swiss alpine culture. The village hosts seasonal festivals that celebrate local heritage, with one of the most notable being the Alpine Cattle Descent in autumn. During this event, cows adorned with flowers and bells return from their summer pastures.
Visitors can also enjoy Swiss folk music, featuring alphorns and yodeling, which often accompany community events. Traditional craftsmanship remains significant in the region, with locals practicing wood carving and cheese-making (our very own Lucerne City Food Tour is a good way to explore the foodie culture in Switzerland).
Exploring Grindelwald’s markets and shops also offers a window into the culture of the region. Visitors can find handcrafted goods and regional delicacies perfect for taking home as gifts and mementos.
Grindelwald offers unparalleled access to some of the most spectacular mountains and glaciers in the Swiss Alps. The aforementioned Eiger North Face, towering above the village, is a highlight, with observation points providing excellent views of its dramatic cliffs.
The Oberer Grindelwald Glacier is another must-see, providing an up-close look at the remnants of this ancient ice formation. The First Mountain Area is perfect for light hikes, such as the trail to Bachalpsee, and features a gondola that makes the ascent accessible. Adventurous visitors can walk along the First Cliff Walk, a suspended walkway offering panoramic views of the valley.
For a unique winter experience, Grindelwald’s snow-covered landscapes can be explored through guided glacier hikes or snowshoeing trails. These mountains and glaciers offer both stunning visuals and opportunities for unforgettable adventures!
To make the most of your visit to Grindelwald, it’s essential to plan ahead. The ideal time to visit depends on your interests. Summer (June to September) is perfect for hiking and scenic gondola rides, while winter (December to March) provides excellent opportunities for skiing and other snow sports. The wintertime is also particularly cozy, so you’re going to adore this region if love getting into the Christmas spirit.
Public transportation in the area is efficient, with trains and buses connecting Grindelwald to nearby attractions. Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on public transport. Keep in mind that the weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be sure to pack layers and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities. While English is widely spoken in Grindelwald, knowing a few basic German phrases can enhance your experience (French and Italian are also widely spoken and will also help you should you be more familiar with those languages).
The local currency is, of course, the Swiss Franc (CHF), and credit cards are widely accepted. However, it’s wise to carry cash for small purchases. Finally, as we always say, please respect local customs and the natural environment by following marked trails and leaving no trace. At Riccardi Travel we proudly support sustainable travel and want guests to continue seeing these magnificent mountain regions in all their splendor for generations to come.
If you have any questions about traveling in Switzerland, please reach out — we’d love to hear from you.