Grindelwald -- Alpine Village at the Foot of the Eiger

TL;DR: Grindelwald is a dramatic mountain village in the Bernese Oberland, set at 1,034 meters directly beneath the infamous North Face of the Eiger. It is the main gateway to the Jungfrau Region, home to the First Cliff Walk, the Eiger Express gondola to Eigergletscher, and some of Switzerland's most spectacular hiking. Reaching Grindelwald from Zurich takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by train via Interlaken Ost -- and the ride itself is one of the most scenic rail journeys in the country.

Quick Facts

Top 5 Things to Do in Grindelwald

1. Walk the First Cliff Walk by Tissot

A narrow steel walkway bolted to the cliff face at 2,168 meters, extending over a sheer drop of several hundred meters into the valley below. The First Cliff Walk is free once you reach the First summit station (cable car CHF 66 round trip; 50% with Swiss Travel Pass, CHF 33). The walkway takes 15-20 minutes to traverse and ends at a dramatic viewing platform with panoramic views of the Eiger, Schreckhorn, and the Grindelwald glacier. Allow 3-4 hours total including the cable car ride and summit area.

2. Ride the Eiger Express to Eigergletscher

Opened in December 2020, the Eiger Express is a state-of-the-art tricable gondola connecting Grindelwald Terminal (GrindelwaldGrund) to Eigergletscher station at 2,320 meters in just 15 minutes -- cutting the travel time to Jungfraujoch by 47 minutes compared to the old route. The views of the Eiger North Face from the gondola are staggering. Round trip to Eigergletscher: CHF 96 (50% with Swiss Travel Pass). From Eigergletscher, continue by cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe, 3,454 m) for an additional fare. Total Jungfraujoch excursion from Grindelwald: CHF 213.40 (CHF 106.70 with Swiss Travel Pass). Allow a full day.

3. Hike to Bachalpsee

One of Switzerland's most photographed alpine lakes, Bachalpsee (2,265 m) is a 50-minute moderate hike from the First summit station. The trail is well-maintained and mostly flat, with wildflowers in summer and reflections of the Schreckhorn and Wetterhorn in the crystal-clear lake on calm mornings. Cost: cable car to First (CHF 66 round trip; 50% with Swiss Travel Pass). The hike is free. Best conditions: June to October. Arrive before 10:00 for the calmest reflections and fewest crowds. Allow 4-5 hours total including cable car and lake time.

4. Fly the First Flyer and First Glider

Two adrenaline experiences at the First summit. The First Flyer is a zip-line descending 800 meters at speeds up to 84 km/h, suspended by a harness beneath a steel cable, with the valley floor far below. The First Glider is an eagle-shaped hang-glider-style ride for four people, swooping 800 meters downhill at up to 83 km/h. Each ride costs CHF 29 (2026 prices) in addition to the First cable car ticket. Minimum age: 10 years. Allow 20 minutes per ride plus waiting time. Open May to October.

5. Ride the Pfingstegg Cable Car and Toboggan Run

A smaller, family-friendly cable car rises from Grindelwald village to Pfingstegg (1,391 m) in just 6 minutes. At the top, a 740-meter summer toboggan run (Rodelbahn) winds through the forest -- one of the longest toboggan runs in the Bernese Oberland. Cable car round trip: CHF 19 adults, CHF 10 children. Toboggan: CHF 9 per ride or CHF 32 for 5 rides. From Pfingstegg, hiking trails lead to the Upper and Lower Grindelwald Glaciers (Oberer and Unterer Grindelwaldgletscher). Allow 2-3 hours.

History & Culture

Grindelwald's history is intertwined with mountaineering. The village was first documented in 1146 as "Grindelwalt," likely derived from the Old High German for "a fenced area on a steep slope." For centuries, the village was an isolated farming community, accessible only by foot or mule path, with its economy based on dairy farming and timber.

The 19th century transformed Grindelwald. The first tourist hotel opened in 1818, and the construction of the road from Interlaken (completed 1870) and the Bernese Oberland Railway (1890) opened the village to the world. The Eiger (3,967 m), particularly its fearsome North Face (Nordwand), became the ultimate prize for mountaineers. The first successful ascent of the Eiger was made in 1858 by Charles Barrington with guides Christian Almer and Peter Bohren -- both Grindelwald natives. The North Face was not conquered until 1938, after years of fatal attempts that earned it the nickname "Mordwand" (Murder Wall). The village cemetery contains memorials to climbers who perished on the Eiger.

Today, Grindelwald is one of the most visited mountain resorts in Switzerland, attracting hikers, skiers, and day-trippers year-round. The opening of the Eiger Express gondola in 2020 and the Grindelwald Terminal station transformed the village into the primary gateway to Jungfraujoch -- a role previously held by Kleine Scheidegg. The village maintains its traditional Bernese Oberland character, with dark wooden chalets, flower-draped balconies, and cowbells as the dominant soundtrack.

Top Attractions

First (2,168 m)

Grindelwald's "adventure mountain" is a year-round destination accessed by a 25-minute gondola ride from the village. At the summit, the First Cliff Walk (free with cable car ticket), First Flyer zip-line, First Glider hang-glider ride, First Mountain Cart (wheeled downhill cart), and Trottibike (scooter descent) offer a full day of activities. In winter, First becomes a ski area with 50 km of runs and an acclaimed sled run.

• Cable car round trip: CHF 66 adults (CHF 33 with Swiss Travel Pass)
• Hours: Daily 08:30-17:00 (Summer), 08:30-16:30 (Winter)
• Adventure rides (each): CHF 29 (First Flyer, First Glider), CHF 19 (Mountain Cart), CHF 19 (Trottibike)
• GPS (base station): 46.6240, 8.0518
• Tip: The First Cliff Walk is free and does not require a separate ticket beyond the cable car

Eiger Express & Eigergletscher

The Eiger Express tricable gondola (V-Cableway, opened December 2020) whisks passengers from Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher at 2,320 meters in 15 minutes. The gondola cabins hold 26 passengers each and provide unobstructed views of the Eiger North Face during the ascent. At Eigergletscher, the Eiger Glacier Restaurant offers terrace dining with views directly onto the glacier.

• Round trip to Eigergletscher: CHF 96 (CHF 48 with Swiss Travel Pass)
• Round trip to Jungfraujoch (via Eiger Express + cogwheel train): CHF 213.40 (CHF 106.70 with Swiss Travel Pass)
• Hours: First departure 08:00, last descent varies seasonally (check jungfrau.ch)
• GPS (Grindelwald Terminal): 46.6145, 8.0268
• Tip from ch.tours: Grindelwald Terminal is a modern transport hub separate from the village center. Free shuttle buses connect the village to the terminal. Parking available (CHF 16/day)

Bachalpsee (2,265 m)

A pristine alpine lake surrounded by peaks, Bachalpsee is reached by a 50-minute moderate hike from the First summit station. The trail gains only 100 meters of elevation and is suitable for most fitness levels. The lake reflects the Schreckhorn (4,078 m) and Wetterhorn (3,692 m) on calm mornings -- a classic Swiss postcard image.

• Access: First cable car + 50-minute hike
• Difficulty: Moderate (some uneven terrain)
• Best time: June to October, before 10:00 for reflections
• GPS: 46.6694, 8.0195
• Tip: Continue past Bachalpsee on the trail toward Faulhorn (2,681 m) for even more dramatic views. The full hike from First to Faulhorn takes approximately 2.5 hours one way

Eiger North Face (Nordwand)

The 1,800-meter vertical North Face of the Eiger (3,967 m) looms directly above Grindelwald. It is one of the most challenging climbs in the Alps and a defining feature of the village landscape. Visitors cannot climb the face without extreme mountaineering skills, but can view it from multiple vantage points:

• Best viewpoint (village): The terrace of Hotel Belvedere or the Grindelwald Grund area
• Best viewpoint (elevated): Eigergletscher station (Eiger Express) or Kleine Scheidegg
• GPS (Eiger summit): 46.5777, 8.0053

Jungfraujoch -- Top of Europe (3,454 m)

Europe's highest railway station, accessible from Grindelwald via the Eiger Express to Eigergletscher and then the Jungfrau Railway cogwheel train through the Eiger and Monch. At the top: the Sphinx Observatory viewing platform, the Ice Palace (carved inside the Aletsch Glacier), a snow park, and panoramic views stretching to the Vosges, Black Forest, and the Italian Alps on clear days.

• Round trip from Grindelwald (Eiger Express route): CHF 213.40 (CHF 106.70 with Swiss Travel Pass)
• Journey time (one way): Approximately 45 minutes (15 min Eiger Express + 30 min cogwheel train)
• Hours: First departure 08:00, last descent varies (check jungfrau.ch)
• GPS (Jungfraujoch): 46.5474, 7.9844
• Tip from ch.tours: Book your Jungfraujoch ticket online in advance during peak season (July-August). Morning departures (before 09:00) offer the clearest views. Afternoon clouds are common

Activities & Experiences

Hiking

Grindelwald is a hiker's paradise with over 300 km of marked trails ranging from easy valley walks to challenging alpine routes.

Winter Sports

Grindelwald is part of the Jungfrau Ski Region, one of the largest ski areas in the Bernese Oberland.

• First ski area: 50 km of runs, mostly intermediate. Family-friendly, quieter than Kleine Scheidegg-Mannlichen
• Kleine Scheidegg-Mannlichen: 110 km of runs, all levels. Accessed via Grindelwald-Mannlichen gondola or train via Kleine Scheidegg
• Jungfrau Ski Region pass (all areas): CHF 75/day adults (2026 prices)
• Season: December to early April (First), December to late April (Kleine Scheidegg)
• Cross-country skiing: 15 km of trails in the valley
• Sledding: The 15 km Big Pintenfritz sled run from Faulhorn to Grindelwald is the longest in Europe. Night sledding on First every Friday in winter

Mountain Carts & Trottibikes

From the First summit, ride a wheeled Mountain Cart or a Trottibike (oversized kick-scooter) downhill on the gravel mountain road to Bort or Grindelwald. No experience necessary; helmets provided.

• Mountain Cart: CHF 19, First to Bort (approximately 30 minutes)
• Trottibike: CHF 19, Bort to Grindelwald (approximately 20 minutes)
• Combo (both): CHF 29
• Minimum age: 10 years for both

Paragliding

Tandem paragliding flights over the Grindelwald valley with views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau are available year-round. Flights typically launch from First or Mannlichen and land in the valley.

• Price: CHF 170-220 per person (2026 prices, tandem with instructor)
• Duration: 10-20 minutes airtime
• Operators: Paragliding Jungfrau, Twin Paragliding
• Booking: Reserve 1-2 days in advance; weather-dependent

Getting Around

By Train

The BOB (Berner Oberland-Bahnen) connects Grindelwald to Interlaken Ost every 30 minutes (35-minute journey, covered by Swiss Travel Pass). The Wengernalp Railway runs from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg (35 minutes, CHF 39 round trip, 50% with Swiss Travel Pass).

Grindelwald Terminal

The modern Grindelwald Terminal transport hub (opened 2020) is the departure point for the Eiger Express and the Mannlichen gondola. Free shuttle buses connect the terminal to the village center (5-minute ride). The terminal has parking for 1,000 cars (CHF 16/day).

On Foot

Grindelwald village is compact and walkable. Key distances from the main station:

• Village center (Dorfstrasse): 3 minutes
• First cable car base station: 10 minutes
• Pfingstegg cable car: 20 minutes
• Grindelwald Terminal: 15 minutes walk or 5 minutes shuttle
• Glacier Gorge (Gletscherschlucht): 25 minutes

By PostBus

PostBus routes connect Grindelwald to outlying areas and Grindelwald Terminal. All PostBus routes are covered by the Swiss Travel Pass and the Jungfrau VIP Pass.

Where to Eat

Traditional & Mountain Cuisine

Mid-Range & International

Budget Options

• Co-op Restaurant: Self-service, CHF 10-16, Dorfstrasse (village center)
• Bäckerei Ringgenberg: Fresh bread, sandwiches, pastries, CHF 5-10, Dorfstrasse
• Bergrestaurant Bort: Self-service mountain restaurant at the Bort cable car midstation, CHF 14-22
• Migros (Interlaken): For self-catering supplies, stock up before arriving in Grindelwald

Where to Stay

By Budget

Where to Stay: Neighborhood Guide

• Village Center (Dorfstrasse): Most convenient for restaurants, shops, and the train station. Walking distance to First cable car
• Grindelwald Grund: Lower in the valley, closest to the Grindelwald Terminal and Eiger Express. Good for Jungfraujoch day trips
• Above Village (hillside): Quieter, better views, but steeper walks. Best for relaxation-focused stays
• Kleine Scheidegg (2,061 m): The mountain pass above Grindelwald has a historic hotel with unmatched Eiger views. Expensive but unforgettable (from CHF 250/night)

Day Trips from Grindelwald

Practical Information

Getting to Grindelwald by Train (SBB / BOB)

Tip from ch.tours: The BOB train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald splits at Zweilutschinen -- the front portion goes to Grindelwald, the rear to Lauterbrunnen. Make sure you are in the correct section. The train is clearly marked, and announcements are made in German, French, and English. Sit on the left side for the best views of the Eiger as you approach Grindelwald.

Swiss Travel Pass in Grindelwald

The Swiss Travel Pass covers:

• Free: All trains to Grindelwald (SBB + BOB), local PostBus routes, Interlaken boat cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
• 50% discount: First cable car, Eiger Express to Eigergletscher, Jungfraujoch excursion, Mannlichen gondola, Schilthorn, Pfingstegg cable car, First Flyer/Glider/Mountain Cart
• Not included: Adventure activity fees (First Flyer, First Glider -- 50% discount applies only to cable car, not the ride itself), parking at Grindelwald Terminal

Weather by Season

Weather data: MeteoSwiss climate normals for Grindelwald (station 3818)

Emergency & Practical Numbers

• Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 112
• Rega (Swiss Air Rescue): 1414
• Police: 117
• Ambulance: 144
• Tourist Information: Grindelwald Tourism, Dorfstrasse 110, +41 33 854 12 12
• Opening hours: Mon-Fri 08:00-12:00, 13:30-18:00; Sat 09:00-12:00, 13:00-17:00 (Summer extended hours)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Grindelwald worth visiting?

Yes, Grindelwald is one of the most spectacular mountain destinations in Switzerland. The village sits directly beneath the Eiger North Face, providing a dramatic alpine setting unmatched by almost any other resort in the Alps. The combination of the First Cliff Walk, Eiger Express, Bachalpsee hike, and access to Jungfraujoch makes it worth at least 2-3 days. It is consistently rated among the top mountain destinations in Europe by Switzerland Tourism.

How many days do you need in Grindelwald?

Three to four days is ideal. Day one: First cable car, Cliff Walk, and Bachalpsee hike. Day two: Eiger Express and Jungfraujoch excursion. Day three: Mannlichen hike or Pfingstegg toboggan run and Glacier Gorge. Day four (optional): day trip to Lauterbrunnen and Schilthorn. With only two days, prioritize First (for hiking) and Jungfraujoch (for the experience).

How do you get to Grindelwald from Zurich?

Take the IC train from Zurich HB to Interlaken Ost (approximately 2 hours, direct), then change to the BOB train to Grindelwald (35 minutes). Trains from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald depart every 30 minutes. Total journey: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. Second-class fare: CHF 76 (free with Swiss Travel Pass). Book via sbb.ch or the SBB Mobile app.

What is the best time to visit Grindelwald?

Late June to September is best for hiking, with all trails and cable cars fully operational and wildflowers at their peak in June-July. December to March is ideal for skiing and winter sports. Avoid early April and late November -- many cable cars close for maintenance, and weather can be unpredictable. For Jungfraujoch, clear weather is more likely in the morning year-round.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid in Grindelwald?

Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass covers all trains to Grindelwald (SBB and BOB lines) and local PostBus services. It provides a 50% discount on the First cable car, Eiger Express, Jungfraujoch excursion, and Mannlichen gondola. The Jungfraujoch round trip from Grindelwald costs CHF 106.70 with a Swiss Travel Pass -- a significant saving from the CHF 213.40 full price.

Can you visit Grindelwald as a day trip from Zurich?

Yes, but it is a long day. Leaving Zurich at 07:00, you can reach Grindelwald by 09:30, take the First cable car and hike to Bachalpsee, and return to Zurich by 19:00. However, ch.tours recommends staying at least two nights to do the area justice -- especially if you want to visit both First and Jungfraujoch.

Is Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen better?

Both are exceptional and serve different purposes. Grindelwald is larger, has more infrastructure (restaurants, shops, nightlife), and offers direct access to First and the Eiger Express to Jungfraujoch. Lauterbrunnen is smaller, more dramatic (the valley of 72 waterfalls), budget-friendlier, and provides direct cable car access to Murren and Schilthorn. Many visitors spend 2-3 nights in each. If you have only one base, Grindelwald offers more activities.

How much does Jungfraujoch cost from Grindelwald?

A round-trip ticket from Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch (via Eiger Express and Jungfrau Railway) costs CHF 213.40 in second class (2026 prices). With a Swiss Travel Pass, the price is CHF 106.70 (50% discount). With a Half Fare Card, CHF 106.70. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes each way. Book online in advance for a fixed time slot during peak season.

Is Grindelwald expensive?

Grindelwald is moderately expensive, comparable to other Swiss mountain resorts. A budget traveler can manage on CHF 130-170 per day (hostel, self-catering, free hiking). A mid-range budget is CHF 250-400 per day (3-star hotel, restaurant meals, one cable car excursion). The main costs are cable cars and mountain excursions -- plan these carefully to maximize value from the Swiss Travel Pass.

What is the Eiger Express?

The Eiger Express is a modern tricable gondola (V-Bahn) that opened in December 2020, connecting Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher station at 2,320 meters in 15 minutes. It replaced the need to take two trains via Kleine Scheidegg to reach the Jungfrau Railway, cutting travel time to Jungfraujoch by 47 minutes. The gondola cabins each hold 26 passengers and offer dramatic close-up views of the Eiger North Face.

Can you ski in Grindelwald?

Yes, Grindelwald is part of the Jungfrau Ski Region with over 200 km of runs. The First ski area (accessed from the village) is family-friendly with 50 km of runs. The Kleine Scheidegg-Mannlichen area offers 110 km of varied terrain. A Jungfrau Ski Region day pass costs CHF 75 (2026 prices). The season typically runs from December to mid-April.

Insider Tips from Locals

1. Early morning Bachalpsee: Take the first cable car to First (08:30) and hike directly to Bachalpsee. Before 10:00, the lake surface is glassy and the Schreckhorn-Wetterhorn reflections are mirror-perfect. By midday, wind typically breaks the surface and tour groups arrive.

2. Glacier Gorge (Gletscherschlucht) in rain: The Glacier Gorge -- a 1 km walkway through a narrow gorge carved by glacial meltwater -- is actually more spectacular in rainy weather, when the waterfalls are at full power and the spray creates a dramatic atmosphere. CHF 19 entry, 25-minute walk from the village.

3. The Firstweg Panorama Trail: Instead of hiking directly to Bachalpsee, take the Panorama Trail from First to Waldspitz. This trail is less crowded and offers equally stunning views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau from a different angle.

4. Kleine Scheidegg sunset: If you stay for the last train from Kleine Scheidegg (check schedule at jungfrau.ch), you can watch the sunset turn the Eiger North Face from grey to gold to deep orange. The pass empties by late afternoon, and the views are transcendent.

5. Stock up in Interlaken: Grindelwald grocery prices are 15-20% higher than in Interlaken. If self-catering, buy supplies at the Coop or Migros in Interlaken before taking the BOB train up to Grindelwald.

6. The correct BOB train car: At Interlaken Ost, the BOB train splits at Zweilutschinen. The front cars go to Grindelwald, the rear cars to Lauterbrunnen. Electronic displays on each car clearly show the destination, but check before boarding to avoid ending up in the wrong valley.

7. Pfingstegg for families: Pfingstegg is underrated compared to First, but the short cable car ride, toboggan run, and glacier trail make it ideal for families with younger children. Less crowded and less expensive than First.

Source: ch.tours | Last updated: March 2026 | Data from MySwitzerland.com, SBB (sbb.ch), Jungfrau Railways (jungfrau.ch), MeteoSwiss, Grindelwald Tourism (grindelwald.swiss)