Lauterbrunnen is an awe-inspiring alpine village situated in a valley with 72 waterfalls encircled by towering cliffs and snow-capped peaks. Few locations in Europe possess this kind of tranquil, idyllic beauty. It’s the ideal destination for adventurers in search of pristine natural landscapes, excitement, and serenity. Lauterbrunnen offers a variety of experiences for all types of travelers, from scenic hiking trails to amazing day trips.
Continue reading for useful information and tips about visiting Lauterbrunnen, and be sure to check out our Switzerland Day Tours from Lucerne.
Lauterbrunnen’s most famous attraction is Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe. This gorgeous natural spectacle features mountain waters cascading 300 meters down into the valley below. Hiking a short trail to the base allows you to enjoy a close-up view.
Another highlight is Trümmelbach Falls, a series of powerful, glacier-fed waterfalls inside the mountain, accessible by tunnels and walkways. This impressive natural wonder showcases the raw power of water as it thunders through the rock.
Meanwhile, the Lauterbrunnen Valley itself is a destination, offering stunning vistas, peaceful meadows, and hiking trails that take you through alpine scenery. We enjoy some of Lauterbrunnen’s highlights on our Lucerne, Interlaken, and Lauterbrunnen Tour and our Grindelwald, Jungfraujoch, & Lauterbrunnen Tour.
Lauterbrunnen is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is a popular choice, with the easy and scenic walk to Stechelberg being a favorite, providing stunning views of waterfalls and meadows. For those seeking adventure, paragliding over the Lauterbrunnen Valley offers an especially thrilling perspective of the region’s dramatic landscape. Cycling routes are also available for leisurely exploration. In the winter, nearby areas like Wengen and Mürren provide opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, making Lauterbrunnen an all-year-round destination for outdoor fun.
Lauterbrunnen is a great base from which to enjoy first-class day trips. You can visit Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe, to enjoy breathtaking glacier views and alpine experiences. Another option is a trip to Schilthorn, a mountain summit that boasts a revolving restaurant made famous by a James Bond film. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Nearby, the car-free villages of Wengen and Mürren are peaceful alpine. All of these destinations are easily accessible by train or cable car.
We’re a little biased of course, but another fantastic base for travel in Switzerland is Lucerne. Our Lucerne Day Tours provide comfort and convenience and take guests to amazing sites, such as the aforementioned Jungfrau. For some uniquely beautiful alpine views, consider our Swiss Alps Day Trip to Grindelwald, Jungfraujoch, and Lauterbrunnen.
Seasonal events in Lauterbrunnen, such as the alpine cattle descent, celebrate local traditions. During this event, cows are adorned with flowers as they return from mountain pastures. Visitors can enjoy Swiss folk music, yodeling performances, and traditional food at local festivals. The architecture of chalet-style homes and wood-carved buildings showcases the charm of the village’s rural roots. Lauterbrunnen is the perfect spot to enjoy authentic Swiss cultural life.
With no less than 72 waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is a photographer’s dream destination. Staubbach Falls is the most iconic, easily accessible from the village, cascading dramatically down a sheer cliff. For a more immersive experience, visit Trümmelbach Falls, hidden within the mountain. These glacier-fed falls can be explored via tunnels and platforms, offering an up-close view of powerful waters carving through rock. Beyond these, the valley is dotted with smaller falls, many accessible through scenic hiking trails. The constant rushing water adds to the area’s tranquil, revitalizing charm.
To capture Staubbach Falls at its best, try shooting in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light. The Lauterbrunnen Valley provides sweeping panoramic shots—ideal from viewpoints above the village, such as Harder Kulm or Schynige Platte. For more dynamic photos, visit Trümmelbach Falls inside the mountain, where you can capture the raw power of water rushing through narrow crevices. Be sure to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast landscapes in all their wild glory.
The best time to visit Lauterbrunnen depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to September) is perfect for hiking and exploring waterfalls, while winter (December to March) is ideal for skiing in nearby resorts.
Public transportation is excellent, with frequent trains and buses connecting Lauterbrunnen to surrounding attractions. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes for walking and layers for changing mountain weather.
While most people speak English, knowing some basic German phrases can be useful. The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), but credit cards are widely accepted. Lastly, remember to respect nature by staying on marked trails.
If you want to experience the highlights of the Swiss countryside with an expert local guide, consider booking a Custom Switzerland Trip with us. Alternatively, our 3-Day Best of Switzerland Tour is an excellent introduction to this mesmerizing land.
Lauterbrunnen is a haven for nature enthusiasts, possessing diverse wildlife and stunning alpine plants. While hiking, you may encounter ibex, marmots, and alpine birds such as the golden eagle. The valley comes alive in the summer with vibrant wildflowers, including the renowned edelweiss and colorful gentians. These delicate blossoms can be found along well-marked paths and in the higher alpine meadows.
This brings an end to our guide to Lauterbrunnen. We hope we’ve provided you with plenty of inspiration for your own Swiss adventures! Now, what are you waiting for? Book a place on our Lucerne, Interlaken, and Lauterbrunnen Tour or Grindelwald, Jungfraujoch, & Lauterbrunnen Tour and experience the magic of Lauterbrunnen for yourself.