Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls: Day Trips and Tours from Interlaken

The Lauterbrunnen Valley, located just 20 minutes away from the resort town Interlaken, is home to 72 waterfalls, including the 300-meter-high Staubach Falls and the glacial Trummelbach Falls among many others.

Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls day trips from Interlaken provide the perfect opportunity to explore Switzerland’s exquisite natural beauty without straying too far from the comfort of your hotel.

Here's all you need to know about the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls, one of the most exciting day trips from Interlaken.

How to get to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls from Interlaken?

Lauterbrunnen is a valley filled with waterfalls that is situated in the Swiss Alps, roughly 12 kilometers south of Interlaken.

From Interlaken to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls by car

If you have access to a car, it is relatively simple to drive from Interlaken to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls. Just head out of the resort town in a southerly direction, making use of the Umfahrung Wilderswil to reach Lauterbrunnen.

The journey by car should take around 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

From Interlaken to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls by train

Direct trains leave for Lauterbrunnen from Interlaken Ost every 30 minutes throughout the day. The scenic train ride takes roughly 20 minutes and tickets cost around CHF 7.50 (€8) per person, making this a convenient and affordable way to reach the valley.

If you are staying in Interlaken West, you’ll first need to make your way to Interlaken Ost before boarding the direct train to Interlaken.

Guided tour to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls from Interlaken

Enjoy the ease and convenience that comes with visiting the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls with a local guide, who will take care of your travel arrangements and tour itinerary so that you can simply relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls guided tours can last anywhere between 3 and 6 hours, depending on the type of trip you choose.

How much does the entrance ticket to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls cost?

While it is free to visit most of the locations within the Lauterbrunnen Valley, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee if you want to visit the famous Trummelbach Falls. Tickets cost CHF14 (US$16) per adult and CHF6 (US$7) per child between 6 and 15.

What is the typical itinerary?

While Lauterbrunnen day trips from Interlaken all offer significantly different itineraries, in most cases your adventure will begin by meeting your guide at their tour operator’s offices somewhere in central Interlaken.

Once you have met your guide and other tour participants, you’ll make your way to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, either by train or private vehicle. There are also bike tours from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen.

Your guide will show you around some of the valley’s top natural attractions and there will be time to relax, explore on your own and take photographs. Many tour operators offer combination tours that visit nearby villages and attractions before taking you back to Interlaken.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls?

When booking a Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls day trip from Interlaken, you have a few different types of yours to choose from including guided tours, private excursions and tours that visit a few of the nearby villages and natural attractions in addition to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls.

Guided tour to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls from Interlaken

Guided tours present an enjoyable and affordable way to visit Lauterbrunnen from Interlaken. As there will be other tour participants, you’ll get to meet new people and enjoy the experience alongside other travelers.

There are a few different types of guided tours on offer and you can visit the valley by e-bike or train with your local guide. There are also guided tours that visit a few of the nearby villages and natural attractions, in addition to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls.

Private tour to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls from Interlaken

While there aren’t as many private tours as there are guided tours, if you want to book an excursion that caters solely to you and your travel companions, there are options available. Visit the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls as well as Lake Brienz and Lake Thun with a friendly guide.

As you and your travel companions will be the only tour participants, you may have some control over the itinerary and departure times.

Day trip to Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls plus Grindelwald and Kleine Scheidegg from Interlaken

Make the most of your time in the Swiss Alps by opting for a full-day excursion that visits the picturesque village of Grindelwald and the Kleine Scheidegg mountain pass, in addition to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls.

One of the major highlights of these shared group experiences is the cogwheel train through the scenic mountain pass. You’ll also get to visit the charming village of Wengen and its surrounding glaciers.

Day tour to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls plus Mürren Village from Interlaken

Many Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls day trips from Interlaken also take the time to visit Mürren Village, which is situated above the valley and is known for its charming chalets. The cable car ride up to the village offers truly incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.

These group tours allow you to see the very best of what the Lauterbrunnen region has to offer as you’ll see its glaciers, waterfalls and villages in a comprehensive half-day outing.

How much does a day trip to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls from Interlaken cost?

The cost of Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls day tours from Interlaken depends on what type of tour you’re interested in. One of the most affordable options on offer is the small-group tours that visit Lauterbrunnen and Mürren Village, which cost roughly €220 per person.

E-bike tours that depart from Interlaken and spend the day exploring the Lauterbrunnen Valley typically cost around €280 per person for a shared group experience that’s inclusive of entry to the Trummelbach Falls.

Full-day group trips that visit Luterbrunnen, Grindelwald and Kleine Scheidegg cost approximately €380 per person including all transportation and entry fees.

Private trips that visit Lauterbrunnen, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz cost €580 for a tour that can accommodate up to 8 participants.

What will you see and do?

Lauterbrunnen, situated in the Swiss Alps, is a beautiful valley that is home to 72 waterfalls as well as a small village. There is plenty to see and do during your time in the valley, including a wide variety of exciting outdoor activities.

Lauterbrunnen Village

Lauterbrunnen Village is a small Alpine village filled with charming chalet-style houses surrounded by green meadows and dramatic cliffs. Walking through the village offers a relaxing experience as you take in the picturesque surroundings.

Waterfalls

While the Lauterbrunnen Valley is home to 72 waterfalls, the two most famous waterfalls are the Staubbach Waterfall and Trummelbach Waterfalls. The Staubbach Waterfalls are over 300 meters in height, while the Trummelbach Falls are fed by nearby glaciers.

Outdoor activities

There are plenty of exciting outdoor activities that you can participate in when visiting the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Hiking and e-biking are very popular, but if you are looking for more of an adrenaline rush, you may be interested in paragliding or even skydiving.

What are the opening times?

While most waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley are open to the public at all times, you should keep in mind that the Trummelbach Falls are open from 9 AM until 5 PM between April and November, and from 8:30 AM until 6 PM in the warmer months of July and August.

When is the best time to visit the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls?

The best time to visit the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls in Switzerland is during late spring to early summer (May to June). During this period, the snowmelt from the mountains ensures the waterfalls are at their most majestic. The valley also blooms with wildflowers, offering picturesque views.

Although summer brings more tourists, the breathtaking scenery combined with pleasant weather makes it an ideal time to experience the natural beauty of Lauterbrunnen.

Are there any tours to the Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls from other cities in Switzerland?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Switzerland:

• Day trips to Lauterbrunnen from Basel

Travel tips

• The valley and surrounding areas have numerous walking and hiking trails of varying difficulties. Whether you're strolling through the village or hiking up to the waterfalls, comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential.
• Even if the forecast is clear, the spray from the powerful waterfalls can get you wet. It's always a good idea to have some waterproof gear with you.
• While there are some restaurants and shops in Lauterbrunnen, having snacks and water on hand is useful, especially if you decide to hike or explore more remote areas.
• The Lauterbrunnen Valley is a pristine natural area. Always remember to leave no trace behind – pack out what you pack in and stay on designated paths.