Lauterbrunnen is one of Switzerland’s most popular day trips because it’s a short drive or train ride from Lucerne, Bern, Interlaken, and Zurich. This picturesque town is a dreamy destination, so here’s how to plan the perfect day trip to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland.

Switzerland Travel Guide

Know Before You Go: Lauterbrunnen is a small town that can be very crowded in summer. So if you’re visiting in June, July, or August, arrive as early as possible or stay as late as possible to avoid some of the crowds.

Here’s how to plan a day trip to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland!

When To Go

June to August is the peak travel season, so be prepared for limited parking, high prices, long restaurant waits, and crowds. You can avoid some of the other visitors by going on weekdays, arriving early, and staying late. These months have the perfect warm, sunny weather, and all activities and Alpine excursions will be open.

Apil, May, September, and October are the shoulder months. Temperatures will be pleasant during the day and cool in the mornings and evenings. These months have a higher chance of rain, so bring a rain jacket. Lauterbrunnen is significantly less crowded during these months, and the mountains should still be fully accessible.

Winter is the off-season, but November – March are incredible months for having Lauterbrunnen practically to yourself. Plus, this Alpine town turns into a Winter Wonderland! It will be cold and icy, so bring your warmest layers and sturdiest boots. Many activities, trails, and roads will be closed or have limited hours, so you’ll need to research any activities you want to do in advance.

What To Do

Year-Round Activities: see Staubbach Falls from the village and the man-made grotto that leads behind the falls, hike to Trümmelbach Falls, drive to the end of the valley, take the Stechelberg Gondola to Mount Schilthorn.

Spring, Summer, and Fall Activities: helicopter tour, paragliding.

Winter Activities: go skiing, go on a snowshoe hike, enjoy the town’s holiday decor and festivities.

Where To Eat

Restaurant Weidstübli (Swiss, European, International, $$-$$$)

Restaurant Baren (Swiss, European, $$-$$$)

Restaurant 1903 (Swiss, International, $$$$)

Restaurant Caprice (Swiss, European, International, $$$$)

Silberhorn Restaurant & Pizzeria (Swiss, Italian, $$-$$$)

Airtime Café Bakery ($$-$$$)

Pasta & More Restaurant ($$-$$$)

Hotel Restaurant Wengener Hof (International, $$$$)

Allmend Bergrestaurant (Swiss, European, $$-$$$)

Chez Meyer’s (French, European, $$$$)

Restaurant Eiger (Swiss, European, $$-$$$)

Hotel Oberland Restaurant (Central European, $$-$$$)

Where To Stay

If you decide to spend the night or a weekend in Lauterbrunnen, I’ve rounded up the best hotels and vacation homes.

Accommodation is limited in Lauterbrunnen, so reserve your accommodation as early as possible, even if you’re visiting in the off-season.

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This day trip to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland guide is not a sponsored post, and, as always, the thoughts and opinions expressed in this day trip to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland guide are entirely my own. Some of the links in this day trip to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland guide are affiliate links, and, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission from this day trip to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland guide.