Bern Itinerary Travel Guide Blog

Bern Itinerary: A Day Trip Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Switzerland | 0

Last updated on September 15th, 2024

Are you planning a trip to Bern and wondering about how to plan your Bern itinerary? Here we will introduce to you the best things to do and see, food to eat for a short day trip to Bern.

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a stunning and tranquil city with a lot to offer. Throughout its history, Bern has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its incredibly long history and marvelous old town. It is located right in the middle of the country, making it extremely easily accessible from Switzerland. The excellent location also makes Bern is perfect for a day trip as you explore the country.

We visited Bern as part of our trip to Switzerland. From Interlaken, we took a one-hour train to Bern and explore this charming town. The old town is filled with charming streets with stunning architecture and historical landmarks all around.

Wondering how to plan for a one-day Bern itinerary? This Bern travel guide blog will show you how to make the most of your time in this beautiful city in Switzerland. Let’s start!

Bern Travel Tips

Bern Travel Tips

Before talking about the best places to visit, here are some quick tips when planning on the Bern itinerary.

How to get to and from Bern
The most convenient to get to Bern is by train and you can get to Bern from most large Swiss cities by train. It takes about one hour from Zurich and two hours from Geneva. Once you reach Bern, the main train station is located right in the center of the city.

For road trips and ground transportation, rent a car through RentalCars.com.

Getting Around in Bern
The city is compact and great for a day trip. Most of the attractions are located in Altstadt (Old Town) and within walking distance from each other. Once you’re in Bern, you can see all the attractions just by walking without taking any transportation.

But sometimes you just need a little break, Bern has a great public transport system that extensively covers the city and surrounding areas. easy to use. You can buy tickets from machines and at the main station.

What is the best time to visit Bern?

Bern is pretty much a year-round destination and there’s really no bad time to visit. But, if you’re wondering about when to visit Bern, we suggest you travel to Bern between the months of May and September; the warmest time of year with the most sunshine periods.

How many days should I spend in Bern?

Bern is fairly compact and easily explore on foot. Spending a half-day will give you a pretty good flavor to explore the city.

Is Bern Worth Visiting?

Definitely worth it. As the capital of Switzerland, Bern is a stunning city to soak up the history and culture of the country, that’s perfect for a trip to Bern!

Things To Do in Bern

If you have just one day or a few hours in Bern, you can see all of the top attractions if you’re up for some walking.

Let’s explore the best things to do for the Bern itinerary:

  • Exploring Altstadt (Old Town)
  • Swiss Parliament House (Bundeshaus)
  • Clock Tower (Zytglogge)
  • Visit Einstein House (Einsteinhaus)
  • Meet some bears in Bärengraben (Bear pit)
  • View the city from the Rose Garden (Rosengarten)

Exploring Altstadt (Old Town)

Exploring Bern Altstadt

The Altstadt (Old Town) was founded in 1191 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today. The streets are cobbled and bordered by the covered arcade, towers, and 16th-century fountains with their beautiful statues. It is a charming and quaint town with much well-preserved medieval architecture you should see. There are also many little shops, cafes, restaurants, and hidden treasures awaiting you to discover!

Fountains with their beautiful statues in Bern
16th-century fountains with their beautiful statues in Bern

Bern’s Altstadt is compact and very suitable for walking. Enjoy your time walking the cobblestone streets, and learning how the old medieval core has been adopted to the new modern world. On the way, keep your eyes out for the famous fountains lining the main streets.

Walking around the old town is a real pleasure. It is recommended to have about two to three hours to discover and absorb the history, food, and culture of Old Town Bern.

Swiss Parliament House (Bundeshaus)

Situated on the Federal Square (Bundesplatz) on the edge of Old Town Bern, Parliament House (Bundeshaus) is one of the most striking landmarks in Bern and quite noticeable. This dominating building is home to the Swiss Federal Assembly and the Federal Council, and the seat of one of the world’s first modern democracies.

If you want to see inside, you can take a guided tour to tour the building and learn about Swiss history and the Swiss government. The tour of the Parliament is free of charge and required to register online three days in advance on the Bundestag website.

We did not take a tour as we did not have any available time in our schedule. But still, it’s well worth stopping at Parliament House to see the impressive building and surrounding area. Nearby you can find good restaurants and cafes, either eat or take a cup of coffee.

Open Market in Bundeshaus
Market day in front of Bundeshaus

Besides, Market day occurs at Bundesplatz on Tuesday and Saturday morning and many locals are getting the fresh local produce here. It is very colorful and filled with lots of activities with people from all walks of life. We did enjoy the small festival and a great experience to get a taste of the local life.

From the Bern train station, it is about five minutes walk to Bundeshaus and easily accessible. A good starting point to see the Old City, Bern.

Clock Tower – Zytglogge

Clock Tower Zytglogge
Clock Tower, Zytglogge

Switzerland has a fascination with clocks and Bern is not slacked in this regard.

Walking in the old town, you will find the Clock Tower, Zytglogge which is located in the middle of town. It is a medieval clock tower that was built in 1218 and served as a city tower for defensive purposes. In 1530, the extraordinary mechanical workings clock were built and the original clock mechanisms are still working and maintained today. If you are interested in the clock, you can even tour inside the tower and learn all about the functioning of this historical clock.

On the hour, small medieval figures appear on the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) with music play that lasts for a few minutes. Not a very exciting clock show, but much more interesting once you learn of its importance and history.

A beautiful working piece of art and craftsmanship that is worth admiring.

Visit Einstein House (Einsteinhaus)

Einsteinhaus - Bern Itinerary
Einsteinhaus (Einstein House)

Located on Kramgasse No. 49 in Bern, the Einsteinhaus (Einstein House) is a museum and a former residence of Albert Einstein. He was once of the most famous residents that ever lived in Bern, from 1903 to 1905, and developed his Theory of Relativity here.

At Bern, one can visit Albert Einstein’s house which he stayed in the city. It was interesting to get a glimpse of Einstein’s private life and the living quarters, the challenges and failures of his path. Highly interesting that at various points on his path he was dubbed a failure.

Allow less than one hour to go through one of the world’s most brilliants, Einstein’s life. A good quick stop when visiting Bern.

Meet some bears in Bärengraben (Bear pit)

Bern itinerary - Bärengraben
Bear in Bärengraben

Cross the Aare River from the Old Town and you’ll find yourself in one of the symbols of Bern, Bärengraben. It is a large circular bear pit where visitors can enjoy watching some actions of the adorable bears.

Bear has been the symbol of Bern with the local legend which narrates that the founder of Bern city vowed to give the name for the city based on the first hunted animal. You can visit the bear pit and see the bears roaming their habitat, wandering around, and snap some pictures of them.

A fun stop to go see the bears in Bern.

View the city from the Rose Garden (Rosengarten)

Bern City View from Rosengarten
Bern City View from Rosengarten

The Rosengarten is a beautiful rose garden set up on a hill opposite an old town across the beautiful river running around the old part of town. It is one of the most beautiful parks in Bern and is known for its variety of flower species. It is also a great place for locals to hang out, meet up, and do outdoor activities.

The rose garden itself is lovely but the real reason to visit is for the amazing views over the city. At here, you can see the whole city and the Aare River winding around it. There are a few different viewpoints that give you the best view of Bern. There is also a small restaurant where you can have a coffee while admiring the view.

A place to relax and enjoy the view.

Where To Stay in Bern

If you are planning for staying in Bern, here are some of a few recommendations for your best stay in Bern:

High Range: For a comfortable stay in Bern, look no further than the Boutique Hotel Belle Epoque. Ideally located in the heart of Bern, this 4-star hotel occupies a 500-year-old building in the Old Town, just steps away from the Aare River. Beautiful decor, full of character, and great attention to detail.

Mid-Range: If you are traveling to Bern with family, consider staying in Kreuz Bern Modern City Hotel. It is a modern accommodation set in the medieval Old Town. Perfect location, reasonable price, and good-sized room. You get everything you need for 1 or 2 days.

Budget: Bern isn’t a city that’s known for being budget-friendly, but a great cheap option in town is the Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke. This hostel has clean and spacious dorms and private rooms and is located in a convenient, right in the heart of Old Town by the clock tower. A popular pick for budget travelers.

Overview: A Day Trip To Bern Itinerary

Now you know how to plan your Bern itinerary. Bern is a compact and small town. Spending a few hours in Bern is good enough to see the city and have a wonderful time here.

Pick a great day to stroll the streets, take some time to get lost in the old town, admire its historical architecture, and eat some Bern local cuisine. A day trip to Bern gives you a glimpse of the Swiss old town with a relaxing vibe. If you follow this itinerary, you’ll make the most out of your time in this wonderful city. Have fun!

If you want to get more inspiration on how to plan your travel itinerary in Switzerland, check out other travel blog posts here:

Traveling to Jungfrau Region:

Lucerne Itinerary

Lucerne itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Switzerland | 0

Last updated on September 15th, 2024

Are you planning for a Lucerne itinerary? Here are the best things to do and see in this Lucerne travel guide blog. You´ll find many useful information and travel tips when planning for your trip to this unique city!

When somebody mentions Switzerland, the first thing that comes into mind is the incredible mountain ranges of the Alps and the famous cities such as Geneva and Zurich. But that is another destination which people will miss is the city of Lucern.

Sitting just north of the Alps, Lucerne is a picturesque city with stunning scenery. You can easily plan a trip to Lucern to see all the attractions in this amazing city. Even if you may not have enough time, one day in Lucerne is sufficient to visit all the best parts of the city. But to enjoy your time in Lucerne, it’s crucial that you fully appreciate what the city is offering. To make use of all of your time here, be sure to follow our Lucerne itinerary which will guide you around this scenic city.

Here’s our Lucerne travel guide blog, with detailed information on itinerary planning and how to visit Lucern for 1 day. You’ll learn about all things to do in Lucerne to ensure you don’t miss out on any great attractions. So, let’s dive right in so you can begin planning your 1 days Lucerne itinerary.

Getting To Lucerne

There is no direct international flight to Lucerne. You have to fly to the nearest airport such as Zurich or Bern to reach Lucerne. Both airports are well connected to the city by road and rail.

Use Skyscanner to find the Best Flight Deal

Once you’re in Switzerland, the train is the best way to travel around Switzerland and to Lucerne.

Travel by Train:

  • From Zurich to Lucerne – There is an hourly train depart and it takes about 45 minutes to get you to Lucerne.
  • From Bern to Lucerne – The fastest train take about 61 minutes of a train journey between Bern and Lucerne Station.

Lucerne Travel Tips: If you travel by train within multiple cities in Switzerland, getting a Swiss Travel Pass might be perfect for you. This valuable pass allows you to travel on any train, bus, or ferry service in Switzerland and you also get discounted tickets to many attractions. And you get to use the cogwheel train up to Mount Rigi for free with the Swiss Travel Pass in 2021.

Check out the Swiss Travel Pass here and see, if it’s worth it for you.

Getting Around in Lucerne

Thanks to Lucerne’s compact size and focus on its riverside Old Town, Lucerne is best explored on foot. Most of the attractions are not too far apart and are easily walkable. You should have no problem getting around on foot while visiting Lucerne

Getting Around in Lucerne

Where To Stay

Figuring out where to stay is often the most stressful step of planning a trip, especially when you’re going to be somewhere which is unfamiliar. Thankfully, most of Lucerne’s hotels are within walking distance of the bridge so you should find great accommodation quite easily. Besides, Lucerne has a very great selection of hotels to suit your need and budget. 

Here, I have the best pick hotels in Lucerne for your recommendation:

Luxury: Schweizerhof Luzern is one of the best places to stay in Lucerne if you’re after comfort and luxury. It is a family-owned 5-star hotel, featuring elegant rooms with modern furniture. Perfectly located at Lake Lucerne’s shores and a few hundred meters from the old town. Check out rates here.

Mid-Range: Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel is a lovely 3-star hotel for your best stay in Lucerne. Perfectly located next to the train station and at an easily walkable distance from the old town and famous bridges of Luzern. Spacious room and excellent staff.

Budget: ibis Styles Luzern offers modernly decorated rooms with a comfortable bed in the historic city center. It is a value stay with an excellent location with about 5 minutes walking distance from the lake. Simple breakfast included. One of the popular picks for budget travelers if you’re looking for a nice mix of affordability and comfort.

For more selection, feel free to read the complete accommodation guide: Where To Stay in Lucerne.

Planning on Lucerne itinerary

Follow this Lucerne travel guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do on your Lucerne itinerary.

Things to do in One Day Lucerne itinerary:

  • Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)
  • Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche)
  • Spreuer Bridge
  • Museggmauer and the Nine Towers
  • Löwendenkmal (Dying Lion Monument)
  • Explore Old Town
  • Re-visit Chapel Bridge for Night View

Lucern Travel Tips: Not every destination can be properly explored in a single day, but Lucerne is the perfect size for this kind of shortstop with a perfect loop by walking at Lucern.

Started from Lucerne Station to Chapel Bridge to give you a glimpse of the past. Spend time at the Jesuitenkirche and walk through Spreuer Bridge. Next, climbed up to the Museggmauer and walked along the wall. Explore the towers and enjoy the beautiful aerial city view. The descent down from the hillside to the lion monument. Spend your remaining time and explore the old town. Re-visit Chapel Bridge at night when the light lit up. A perfect loop on Lucern’s itinerary.

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

Chapel Bridge Lucerne
Chapel Bridge

Let´s start with the most popular attraction in Lucerne, Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke). When planning on the Lucerne itinerary, most of the travelers will be headed to Chapel Bridge for their first destination, and the same for us. Being the most iconic landmark of Lucerne, the Chapel Bridge is a must for any visitor to the city. Your visit to Lucerne is not complete without taking a selfie with the bridge in the backdrop.

With a convenient location, just a stone‘s throw from the train station, and easy to reach. From the train station, it takes you about 5 minutes to Chapel Bridge since it’s only 500 m away.

Named after the nearby St. Peter’s Chapel, the bridge was built originally in 1333 as part of the city’s fortifications. It is unique and has historical importance in containing a number of interior paintings dating back to the 17th century.

Sadly, part of Chapel Bridge have been burnt down in the 90s. Subsequently restored, the Kapellbrücke is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe, as well as the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge. It is now the city’s symbol in Lucerne, connecting the Old Town and the new town, across the Reuss River.

Paintings under the roof of the Chapel Bridge’s walkway

Painting in Chapel Bridge
Paintings under the roof of the Chapel Bridge

Being on the bridge looking at the Alps feels quite unreal. You’ll see the Vierwaldstättersee (Lake Lucerne), one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes, and have a great view of the Alps. A serene and breathtaking city’s waterfront scenery.

When walking along with it, don’t forget to look upwards as you walk the length of the bridge to appreciate the remaining original paintings under the roof of the walkway. Mostly depicting important events and scenes from the city’s history with historical notes in English and German.

Restaurants are dotted all along the lake and bridge from fine dining to quick easy snacks. It is an excellent place to have coffee or lunch before proceeding to the next attraction.

Lucerne Travel Tips: Recommend visiting the bridge in the daytime and coming back at night. Chapel Bridge is magical at night when the lights are on.

Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche)

Jesuitenkirche Lucerne
Gorgeous Interior, Jesuitenkirche

Just a short walk from the Chapel Bridge will head you to Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche), the first large baroque Catholic Church built in Switzerland, north of the Alps.

The construction of the church began in 1667 and was officially inaugurated 10 years later with the high altar and side altars completed over the years. The church interior is exquisite throughout. It is very gorgeous with crafted woodworkings along its being very light and bright inside makes it a very unique church.

Despite its stunning looks, it did not take me long to go through, and easy to squeeze into your Lucerne itinerary. Take some time to immerse yourself in the beautiful interior and prayers. A quick stop for your trip to Lucerne.

The church is open all day with no entrance fee, but a donation will be appreciated. Guidebooks are available for a fee of €5.

Lucerne Travel Tips: Non-flash photos were allowed in Jesuit Church, Lucerne.

Spreuer Bridge

Lucerne itinerary - View from Spreuer Bridge
Enjoy View from Spreuer Bridge

Despite the famous is the Chapel Bridge, there is another lesser-known wooden covered bridge that is worth a visit in Lucerne. Located just a few meters behind Chapel Bridge and the church, you´ll find Chapel Bridge´s little sister, the Spreuer Bridge. The bridge was originally built together with the Museggmauer in the 14th century and rebuilt after further destruction in 1566 due to a storm.

Like the Chapel Bridge, there are numerous paintings on the bridge, many of which are original that date back to the 17th century. The paintings are exceptional, especially the subject of death for all the paintings is eye-opening.

Adjacent to the bridge is the Needle Dam, a marvel of engineering that works today just as it did in the mid-1800s. You’ll get a closer look at the Needle Dam from it as well when walking through the Spreuer Bridge.

Although it is not as impressive as Chapel Bridge, the views of and from the bridge are wonderful. It is less busy with an easy minute walk from Chapel Bridge. It is worth the walk and pictures. A not to be missed in Lucern itinerary!

Museggmauer and the Nine Towers

Museggmauer and the Nine Towers
Museggmauer and the Nine Towers

Next, take a walk away from the town, walk up the hillside to the Museggmauer and the Nine Towers. It was a nice trip on foot, rewarded with fantastic views from the walkway along to the top of this fortress.

The old city wall and its towers are part of the old Medieval fortifications for Old Town Lucerne. Different portions of the wall and the towers date back to the 1300 and 1400s and were a fundamental part of the old city’s defenses along with the river and Lake Lucerne. It is very well preserved and is well worth the time to take it all in.

Zyt Clock Tower Lucerne

There are 4 towers open to the public and can be ascended, including the Zyt Tower which is filled with ancient clocks and mechanisms which still are active.

Built by Hans Luter, Zyt Tower has a huge clock on it and is the city’s oldest clock is still working today. Beware that the stairs are steep. But there are sections of the wall where can have decent views of Old Town and Lake Lucerne below.

Löwendenkmal (Dying Lion Monument)

Dying Lion Monument
Löwendenkmal (Dying Lion Monument)

Next, proceed to the Löwendenkmal (Dying Lion Monument) on your Lucern itinerary. A truly moving memorial, this lion monument features a carved relief of a dying lion above a still pond. It is the oldest figurative monument in Switzerland, commemorating Swiss soldiers who lost their lives defending King Louis in the 18th century during the French revolution. A total of 760 soldiers died.

The lion sculpture is so well carved and has such a sad expression on its face that is so life-like. Fabulous workmanship and this monument say a million things.

We enjoyed reading the inscriptions about the history of why the lion sculpture was commissioned. A great spot to stop by during your visit to Lucerne.

Explore Old Town

Exploring Lucerne Old Towns
Exploring Lucerne’s Altstadt (Old Town)

Spend your time in Lucerne’s Altstadt, one of the most beautiful Old Towns in all of Europe. Compared to Zurich and Geneva, Lucerne is more packed with historic buildings and medieval architecture. Lucern’s old town is very scenic with a very vibrant atmosphere.

A walk through the old town makes for a very pleasant amble. The narrow cobblestone streets lead you to lines of charming shops, cafés, and restaurants.

There are also many decorative buildings in which the paintings tell stories. You’ll also find various beautiful old churches, numerous squares with fountains, and well-preserved city walls and towers along the splendid walk. Each of them has its uniqueness and history. 

Make sure to check out some of its most charming squares in Lucerne’s Altstadt:

  • Weinmarkt, where you can see Lucerne’s prettiest fountain.
  • Mühlenplatz, the largest square of the old town.
  • Kornmarkt, is home to Lucerne’s Renaissance-style town hall.
  • Hirschenplatz, with its picturesque traditional houses.

Consider getting a guide to learn the details, as it is most worthwhile. Take your time strolling in the old town to marvel at the magnificent buildings and the beautiful scenery.

Chapel Bridge (Night View)

Chapel Bridge Night View
Chapel Bridge Night View

Lastly, end your Lucern itinerary by re-visit the Chapel Bridge in the evening or nighttime. Even though we visited Chapel Bridge during the day, our favorite time to visit was in the evening. It is much more exciting to see the place at night when the light lit up.

The bridge that goes across the Lake of Lucerne at night is scenic. With the lights shimmering on the surrounding water at night, the view is extremely magical and romantic. It is definitely worth another stroll at night while visiting Lucerne!

Lucerne Travel FAQ

After finding out about the best attractions in Lucerne, here is some important travel information for Lucerne.

What is the best time to visit Lucerne?

Lucerne is pretty much a year-round destination and you can get a lot out of Lucerne during any time of the year. However, June to September is the peak season in Lucerne when the temperature is comparatively warmer and many travelers flock to Lucerne during these months.

Is Lucerne worth visiting?

Don’t miss Lucerne during your trip to Switzerland. The centuries-old wood pedestrian bridge, cobblestoned old town, and many attractions definitely worth a visit!

Is 1 day in Lucerne enough?

While Lucerne is not a big city, and most of the attractions are compact in the old town area. So 1 day in Lucerne is doable. With more days in Lucerne, you can even plan for a day trip to Mt. Pilatus,

Overview: One Day Lucerne Itinerary

Lucerne Travel Guide

All in all, by following the above Lucerne travel itinerary as your guide, you’ll have no problem seeing the city’s most important sights during your brief time there. This is a complete Lucern travel guide blog on how to make the most of your 1 day in Lucerne.

The old bridges give you a glimpse of the past and the whole Old Town area is very interesting. I hope you will have a wonderful trip and enjoy the best things to do in Lucerne!

If you want to get more inspiration on how to plan your travel itinerary in Switzerland, check out other travel blog posts here:

More popular places to visit in Switzerland:

Where To Stay in Jungfrau Region

Where To Stay in Jungfrau: Top 5 Best Areas and Hotels

by | posted in: Switzerland | 0

Last updated on September 15th, 2024

A complete accommodation guide on where to stay in Jungfrau Region and broke down the best neighborhoods, hostels, hotels, and apartments for you to find the best place in Jungfrau Region to stay based on your interests.

Jungfrau Region is a popular holiday gateway in Switzerland all year round. In the Spring and Summer, it’s the perfect village for hiking and witnessing the nearby waterfalls. In the Winter, this is a popular ski destination for winter sports and activities.

Stay at least three nights in Jungfrau Region to have enough time to explore the beautiful scenery. You’ll be blown away by the charming villages, Jungfraujoch, and the Swiss countryside. Spend your holiday by sitting outside your hotel surrounded by snow-capped mountains while sipping on a glass of wine.

Jungfrau Region offers a stunning view with its mountains and valleys, cliffside villages, and bustling towns. That said, it can also be an expensive, crowded tourist trap. Picking the best place to stay in Jungfrau Region can be confusing. Here are our top picks for places to stay in Jungfrau Region, organized by the locations, and budget.

Whether you want to stay somewhere central with public transport accessible, near the local life, or you want to stay somewhere on a budget, read on to learn more about our picks for the best places to stay in Jungfrau Region!

Where To Stay Jungfrau Region – Best Hotels for Every Budget

There are a lot of options on where to stay in the Jungfrau region. Here are a few recommendations for places to stay in the Jungfrau region based on traveling style and budget.

If you want to explore Jungfrau Region easily and get around to attractions nearby, stay in Interlaken. It is the major hub for travel in Switzerland and is conveniently located along with the main transportation network. A good option, especially if you have limited time in the Jungfrau region with a speedy itinerary. More food and dining options in Interlaken. Besides, Interlaken also has more affordable accommodation, we recommend using it as your home base in Jungfrau for budget travelers.

Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald are the famous and picturesque towns in the Jungfrau region. The villages themselves are gorgeous but also are a great transportation hub in the Jungfrau region. This also makes a handy place to stay for visitors, with its train station and cable car station. You’ll easily be able to attractions nearby by trains, cable car, or car, then enjoy a peaceful afternoon back in town.

If you’re planning a laidback holiday with an authentic Swiss experience, stay in Mürren and Wengen. It’s hard to beat the incredible views of the Swiss Alp you get from this town. Rustic houses, Swiss chalets, hotels, and restaurants are all clustered together in a quaint, car-free town. An ideal base if you’re planning to stay mostly in the Jungfrau region and want to make the most of the charming ambiance.

Lauterbrunnen

If you want to stay in a classic Swiss mountain village, Lauterbrunnen is a great choice for you. This village is surrounded by mountains and offers quintessential Switzerland scenery in every direction. Lauterbrunnen is surrounded by trails leading to majestic waterfalls and idyllic fields of flowers. A cable car will deliver you to Schilthorn Mountain for even better views of the surrounding valley.

Where to stay in Lauterbrunnen:

Hotel Staubbach

Best Jungfrau Region Hotel - Hotel Staubbach

Mid-Range: Hotel Staubbach – Built in the 1890s, this historic hotel was one of the first hotels in Lauterbrunnen. The family-run Hotel Staubbach offers panoramic views of the Staubbach Falls and Lauterbrunnen Valley. Easy access to the station makes it an ideal home base for navigating the Jungfrau Region.

Hotel Oberland

Popular Hotel in Jungfrau Region - Hotel Oberland

Mid-Range: Hotel Oberland – Located in central Lauterbrunnen with a very short walk to the train station and you can go exploring Jungfrau Region with ease. A quaint hotel run by a charming family with beautiful views all around. A popular pick for where to stay in Jungfrau Region.

Valley Hostel

Where To Stay in Jungfrau Region on budget - Valley Hostel

Budget: Valley Hostel – Popular pick for budget travelers. It has an excellent location, within easy walking distance of train station. Take your pick from a wide variety of private and dormitory-style rooms that can accommodate between 1 and 4 people. All rooms with shared bathroom and a shared kitchen.

Grindelwald

Another popular mountain resort town in the Jungfrau region is Grindelwald. It is about 20 kilometers from Interlaken and required about 15 minutes by train. Another great transportation hub in the Jungfrau region, with a train station and numerous cable cars that whisk visitors up into the mountains.

Where to stay in Grindelwald:

Sunstar Hotel & SPA Grindelwald

Sunstar Hotel Grindelwald

Luxury: Sunstar Hotel & SPA Grindelwald – One of the popular luxuries stay in Grindelwald. It offers an assortment of room options for your stay in the Jungfrau Region. Guests will be blown away by the beautiful unspoiled panoramic views of the famous North Face of the Eiger and the Wetterhorn. Just walk out the back of the lobby and enjoy the view of the Swiss Alps. The staff are incredibly courteous, the rooms were comfortable and practical. Limited free parking available.

Jungfrau Lodge, Swiss Mountain Hotel

Jungfrau Lodge

Mid-Range: Jungfrau Lodge, Swiss Mountain Hotel – A Family-run hotel for over 100 years at Grindelwald. The Jungfrau Lodge, Swiss Mountain Hotel is a superb hotel in an ideal location with clean and comfortable rooms. Some offer panoramic mountain views. If you’re traveling by car, there are limited car parks available for guests.

Gasthof Panorama

Gasthof Panorama

Budget: Gasthof Panorama – Located a quiet location at the Terrassenweg in Grindelwald, only a 5-minute drive away from the center. Free parking for guests and a bus pass will be provided to all guests to get to restaurants and train/cable car stations. Rooms overlooking the mountains have an exceptional view as the hotel is situated uphill from the main station. A great hotel with amazing views all around.

Mürren

Murren is one the best places to stay in the Jungfrau region if you like the countryside, peaceful and gorgeous views of the mountains. Both Wengen and Murren are accessible by cable car with breathtaking Swiss countryside. Mürren is smaller compared to Wengen with fewer hotels, shops, and restaurants and more laid-back.

Where to stay in Mürren:

Hotel Bellevue

Best Stay in Jungfrau Region - Hotel Bellevue

Mid-Range: Hotel Bellevue – A warm and cozy boutique hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms. It is located center of Mürren and next to the funicular. Rooms with balconies provide amazing views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

Hotel Alpina

Best Hotel in Jungfrau Region - Hotel Alpina

Mid-Range: Hotel Alpina is a wonderful hotel that offers pretty rooms and great service. All staffs are very helpful and friendly and the room is lovely and clean. But what’s truly exceptional is the view of the amazing mountains and the Lauterbrunnen Valley from the balcony of the room.

Wengen

If you prefer to stay in the mountains, then Wengen is a beautiful option when deciding where to stay in Jungfrau. This area is boasted gorgeous mountain resorts to rival the best hotels in Jungfrau, Switzerland. This car-free village is a hub for outdoor adventure sports, with skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.

Where to Stay in Wengen:

Sunstar Hotel Wengen

Where To Stay in Jungfrau Region - Sunstar Hotel Wengen

High-Range: Sunstar Hotel Wengen – It is located close to the station with 2-minutes walk in the car-free village of Wengen. Excellent location with the Männlichen Cable Car is located right across from the property. Rooms are spacious and you’ll be treated to the gorgeous panoramic mountain. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool and a sauna which is a great plus.

Hotel Alpenrose

Hotel Alpenrose Wengen

Mid-Range: Hotel Alpenrose Wengen – A popular pick hotel in Wengen. Build-in 1881, it is one of the oldest hotels in Wengen and run by the same family for generations. Rooms are renovated in the traditional Alpine style and with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Clean and comfy rooms, and most of what you’ll need for a sweet stay.

Hotel Edelweiss

Where To Stay in Jungfrau Region - Hotel Edelweiss

Budget: Hotel Edelweiss is by far the best budget hotel in Wengen. It offers a beautiful view over Jungfrau, a cozy ambiance, and excellent staff that makes you feel comfortable and enjoy every moment of your stay. Excellent location with a 4-minute walk away from the train station in the car-free village of Wengen.

Interlaken

If you want to stay in the heart of the Jungfrau region, Interlaken is the best choice for you. It is the major transportation hub for all the attractions nearby. Many accommodation options are available in Interlaken, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. This is also the most living region with many dining options and shops and located in the center of town.

Best Pick for accommodation in Interlaken:

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Best Stay in Jungfrau Region - Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel

Luxury: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – A famous five-star hotel that offers a luxurious stay and impeccable service. Located in the privileged and picturesque location in Interlaken, between 2 beautiful lakes at the foot of the eternally snow-capped Jungfrau. Rooms are spacious and decorated with distinctive design and décor, ranging from classic to contemporary.

Carlton-Europe Vintage Hotel

Carlton-Europe Vintage Hotel

Mid Range: Carlton-Europe Vintage Hotel – A quaint boutique hotel got everything your friends will swoon for. Great location near the Interlaken Ost Station, classy rooms yet with a touch of tradition in every corner, comfy bed, and good breakfast. Children are not allowed.

Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof

Budget Stay in Jungfrau Region - Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof

Budget: Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof – A nice modern hostel in Interlaken, that provides simple yet stylish rooms that are individually decorated. Every guest has free access to the self-catering kitchen facilities. There is a wide range of room types, from a single bed in dormitory rooms, and a single to quintuple room. Great budget option and a perfect base to visit Jungfrau Region.

Overview: Best Stay in Jungfrau Region

All in all, I love and miss my trip to Jungfrau Region. Its mountains and valley, and picturesque quaint town, make it one of the dreamiest places in the world. But it can be expensive and crowded. We hope this accommodation guide can help you to find out where to stay in Jungfrau Region based on your style.

Enjoy your trip to Jungfrau Region, and if we missed any of your favorite places to stay, let us know.

Ready to plan your trip? Here’s my travel guide blog for exploring Switzerland’s beautiful attractions with stops in charming villages, historic cities, and gorgeous natural landscapes.

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Jungfrau Region itinerary Travel Guide Blog

Jungfrau Region Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Switzerland | 0

Last updated on September 15th, 2024

The ultimate Jungfrau Region itinerary for the postcard-pretty towns, scenic splendor, and natural attractions in the most beautiful regions in Switzerland. Spend your holiday by exploring the beautiful region and enjoying the stunning view of the Jungfrau.

Jungfrau region, by the Bernese Alps, is one of the most beautiful regions in Switzerland. It’s home to gorgeous alpine lakes, majestic mountains, majestic tremendous waterfalls, vast glaciers, and more. An ideal travel destination for your Swiss holiday.

We visited the Jungfrau region and enjoyed my holiday in this beautiful region very much! Given its proximity to several other beautiful and exciting destinations, various day trips can be planned within the Jungfrau region. There is plenty to do in this picturesque part of Switzerland and visitors can enjoy all kinds of fun activities while exploring the pretty villages in the surrounding area.

Read on to find out more about how we plan on the Jungfrau Region itinerary – as well as more detail on how to fill your days spent in this scenic region. An essential travel guide blog to Jungfrau region, Switzerland.

Planning for Jungfrau Region Itinerary

Planning on Jungfrau Region itinerary

The Jungfrau region consists of many towns and villages, and there are ways to plan for your Jungfrau region itinerary. We recommend spending 4 days exploring the Jungfrau region. The most popular destination in the Jungfrau region are Interlaken, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Grindelwald, and Isenfluh.

Below is the suggested Jungfrau region itinerary to spend your holiday here:

  • Day 1: Arrived Jungfrau Region. Interlaken and boat Trip to Brienz.
  • Day 2: Jungfraujoch, Kleine Scheidegg, and Wengen.
  • Day 3: Murren and Lauterbrunnen.
  • Day 4: Grindelwald.
Jungfrau Region Travel Tips: Swiss Travel Pass is a valuable pass where you will be able to go on almost any public transportation in Switzerland for a consecutive 3, 4, 8, or 15 days. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you will get unlimited rides on trains, panorama trains, boats, and buses for up to 15 consecutive or flexible days in Switzerland!

Take a look on the Swiss Travel Pass (E-Ticket) from Klook for more money saving tips. Cheaper than buying in SBB web!

Where To Stay

It can be challenging to choose where to stay when exploring the Jungfrau region. There is a wide range of hotel offerings that make the Jungfrau Region have a lot of accommodation options.

If you have an idea of what you’d most like to do or experience while in the area, these quick recommendations can help you choose.

Accommodation in Jungfrau Region

Lauterbrunnen – Sits in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Lauterbrunnen is one of the most picturesque towns in the Jungfrau region. It is also conveniently located along with the main transportation network of trains and cable cars.

  • Mid-Range: Hotel Oberland – Located in central Lauterbrunnen with a very short walk to the train station. A charming family-run hotel in a convenient and central location with beautiful views all around.

Wengen or Mürren – Popular place to stay for travelers who want to experience living in a true Swiss village. These tranquil car-free mountain villages are perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed holiday.

  • Mid-Range: Hotel Alpenrose – The oldest hotel in Wengen dated back to 1881. Rooms have been completely renovated and are decorated in a traditional Alpine style.
  • Budget: Hotel Edelweiss – A 2-star hotel at Wengen with simple rooms and decorated in a traditional alpine style. 

Interlaken – A vibrant resort town with many restaurants, shops, luxury boutiques, and hotels. It is an extremely convenient location, with direct trains to other areas in the Jungfrau region and the rest of Switzerland. Best place to stay in the Jungfrau region for first-timers.

If you need more selection, feel free to take a look on our accommodation guide: Where To Stay in Jungfrau Region – Best Hotel & Holiday Home

We choose to stay in Interlaken as the accommodation in Interlaken is cheaper and convenient for getting around. The lovely lakeside city of Interlaken is the perfect laidback city break with plenty of shopping and dining options.

Day 1 – Interlaken, Brienz

For your first day in Jungfrau region, settle in the accomodation in the Jungfrau region and spend the day exploring the Interlaken.

Interlaken is the perfect laidback city break with Alpine mountain ranges, perfect for hiking and exploring. It is a vibrant touristy town with many hotels, restaurants, and retail shops. A great place to stay and do some shopping, especially for Swiss chocolates and souvenirs.

Boat ride on Lake Brienz
Boat ride on Lake Brienz

Often referred to as the gateway to the Jungfrau region, Interlaken is set on the Aare riverbank and lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It makes a great base for us to visit Lake Brienz and the area’s other villages such as Brienz and Iseltwald.

Our Jungfrau region itinerary started with a boat ride on Lake Brienz. Most importantly, our boat ride is covered by Swiss Travel Pass and it is totally free!

Enjoy boat ride on Brienzersee

Located on the east side of Interlaken, Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) is characterized by the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and villages. The boat ride on the shimmering waters of Lake Brienz amid the mountains of the Bernese Oberland is an unforgettable experience. 

The tranquil lake is extremely awesome with shimmering turquoise waters and stunning backdrops. We all instantly fall in love with its beauty. A very scenic special lake cruise journey and we totally loved it.

The boat stopped at several lakefront attractions along the way such as Giessbach and Iseltwald and finally sailed to our destination. It took about 75 minutes for the cruise ride.

Brienz
Brienz – Scenic Lakefront Village

We end our cruise journey at Brienz, a scenic lakefront village known for its wood carving tradition. The town is unbelievably charming, lined with traditional half-timbered houses and a nice promenade along the lake. It was so peaceful and tranquil here. We spend about an hour at Brienz strolling around and taking many photos before catching our train back to Interlaken.

Read More: Things To Do in Interlaken Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Day 1 Jungfrau region itinerary: Arrived Jungfrau region – Interlaken. Take an hour boat from Interlaken to Brienz, spending time and explore the Brienz town. From there, take the train back to Interlaken which provides different views and sceneries.

Day 2 – Jungfraujoch

A must-do for Jungfrau region itinerary – an epic train ride to the Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe.

Jungfraujoch sits in the saddle of two of the highest peaks in the Jungfrau region of the Alps (Jungfrau and Mönch). At 3,454 meters up, it is the highest point in Europe that is accessible by train. Take in the awesome beauty at Jungfraujoch and get to know its fascinating history.

Jungfraujoch Travel
Epic train ride to the Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe

The journey to the Jungfraujoch can be done by train, offering you an easy way to see the gigantic Swiss Alps with a scenic view along the train ride. You can choose either Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen and ride the train to Kleine Scheidegg before making your way to Jungfraujoch.

Depending on your starting point, it took about 2 hours to get you to the Jungfraujoch from Interlaken. Plan at least 2 to 3 hours (not including traveling time) at the Jungfraujoch.

It is best for your journey in the early morning. If you have more time, stop by Wengen on the way down for views of the valley and the Alps.

Jungfrau Region itinerary - Jungfraujoch
Amazing view at Jungfraujoch

There is so much to do and see at Jungfraujoch that you can easily spend your time there.

Things to do in Jungfraujoch include riding the train to Europe’s highest train station, standing on one of the highest points in the Swiss Alps, exploring Sphinx Observatory and Ice Palace, hiking through the snow out to the Mönchsjochhütte, getting the panoramic views over the Alps.

A trip to Jungfraujoch can be confusing for first-timers. If you want to find out more travel information about the Jungfraujoch, read our detailed Jungfraujoch Travel Guide – Things to do in Jungfraujoch.

Ice Palace at Jungfraujoch

Visiting Jungfraujoch is expensive but it is definitely worth the money. If you go to Switzerland, make sure to cross the Jungfraujoch off your bucket list!

Jungfrau Region Travel Tips: Don’t forgot to show your Swiss Travel Pass when purchasing the Jungfraujoch Ticket. You will get 25% off the price of the ticket to Jungfraujoch.

Get the Swiss Travel Pass (E-Ticket) from Klook here

Day 3 – Murren, Lauterbrunnen

We spend our day 3 Jungfrau Region itinerary on the Swiss mountain village at Murren and Lauterbrunnen. You may swap with Grindelwald to suit on your itinerary planning.

Day 3 Jungfrau Region itinerary: Mürren – Tandem Paragliding – Lauterbrunnen – Staubbach Falls.

Murren

With a population of just 450 people, Mürren is an authentic Swiss mountain village with timber houses decked in flowers line the peaceful car-free streets. The top attraction to visit in Murren is Schilthorn Piz Gloria, a great place to see the mountain range and also visit the place of one of the scenes of a James Bond Movie.

We didn’t includ Schilthorn and have other planning for the Murren trip.

Jungfrau Region itinerary - Murren
Swiss mountain village – Murren

Surrounded by huge mountains and steep slopes down to Stechelberg, Mürren is known for Tandem Paragliding. The paragliding from Murren is an amazing experience to see breathtaking scenery in the sky. The passenger is strapped into a harness in front of a professional pilot and flew over the Lauterbrunnen valley.

Before the trip, we pre-booked our paragliding adventure via Viator. You can choose with pickup option from the hotel if you are staying in Lauterbrunnen. While we were staying in Interlaken, we make our way to Mûrren. It is very easy and straightforward to go Murren and we can also take a quick visit to Murren village. The departure location is just outside the Schilthornbahn Cablecar Station.

Jungfrau Region itinerary
Tandem Paragliding from Murren

There are a few options for you to consider for a Paragliding adventure. If you have any desire to tandem paraglide, we recommended doing your adventure in Lauterbrunnen/Murren. It was wonderful to overlook the valley. Our guides are very professional and experienced. A must-do for any age person.

The price is really not cheap but worth it. Imaging you are literally sailing over the Swiss Alps! 

 

Lauterbrunnen

Next, spend your afternoon in Lauterbrunnen, a small village in the Jungfrau region that showcases an abundance of awe-inspiring waterfalls. The scenery all over the valley is simply breathtaking and of course, it can not be described in words or photos.

Jungfrau Region Travel Blog - Lauterbrunnen

There are 72 waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley with amazing views of the Alps mountain region. The most famous being the 300m Staubbach Falls but there are plenty of other small waterfalls around here. You can get closer to the Staubbach falls with a steep hike up a hill, through a tunnel, and a passageway carved on the side of the mountain.

Lauterbrunnen
View on Lauterbrunnen Village with waterfall

Begin your adventures at Lauterbrunnen Village and past the charming timber houses. Next, continue walking to the most famous waterfall in Lauterbrunnen: Staubbach Falls, and appreciate the views. The waterfalls are tremendous and beautiful!

Expect to spend two to three hours here to explore everything leisurely.

Day 4: Grindelwald

Lastly, we headed to Grindelwald for a day of adventures. The main attraction in Grindelwald is the First Summit, which you can reach from Grindelwald via a cable car.

We took a 25-minute cable car ride and then headed to the famous First Cliff Walk by Tissot. The cliff walk is a ton of fun where the walkway is built into the side of the rock. It certainly isn’t for the faint of heart since you walking on an open platform attached to the cliffside. A nice cliffside walk experience for free.

The views from the top are magnificent where you can see the Eiger and surrounding mountains. I highly recommend this excursion on your Jungfrau region itinerary. Simply an amazing experience!

Grindelwald - First Cliff Walk by Tissot
Grindelwald – First Cliff Walk by Tissot

There are lots of fun activities on offer at the summit, including electric bikes, carting, a zip line (First Flyer), and more. Besides, it is also a great kicking-off point for loads of stunning hikes. We didn’t join the activities as we will take the evening train to the next destination. We enjoy the beautiful views before the descent back to Grindelwald village.

Back to the Interlaken, we have our meal at a restaurant nearby Höhematte Park, Interlaken. It is a large meadow with a great vista and a great spot to sit and watch as paragliders float back down to earth. We had the cheese fondue and enjoy it by dipping it with the fondue bread and potatoes.

Jungfrau Region Travel Tips

If you’re trying to design your Jungfrau Region itinerary there are a few things you need to keep in mind first. These are some of our Jungfrau Region travel tips.

Getting Around in Jungfrau Region

Getting Around in Jungfrau Region

The best way to get around Jungfrau Region is using public transport as most of the attractions in the Jungfrau region can be accessed using trains and cable cars. If you’ll be visiting multiple destinations across Switzerland, consider purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass. This valuable pass allows you to travel on any train, bus, or ferry service in Switzerland and you also get discounted tickets to many attractions. Great 25% discount for Jungfraujoch.

Although driving is a good way to visit Switzerland, most of the top sights in the Jungfrau region can be only reached by public transport. So we wouldn’t recommend renting a car to explore the area. If you’re planning for driving in Swiss, we recommend using the website Rental Cars to find your vehicle, as it’s the largest booking platform on the net and offers the best prices.

Best Time To Visit Jungfrau Region

Switzerland is beautiful year-round and each season brings a reason to visit Jungfrau Region: whether it’s flowers and pretty weather in the spring, the warmth and liveliness of summer, the color changes of autumn, or the snowy winter, you can’t go wrong traveling to Jungfrau Region at any time of the year.

If you want to take advantage of hiking, cliff walks, and adventure sports then the Summer months are the best time to visit. During summer, all the mountain attractions are open and accessible. The weather is warm and pleasant for all the outdoor activities. But it can be crowded as many travelers are flocking to Jungfrau Region in Summer.

How Many Days for Jungfrau Region

There is so much to see and do in Jungfrau Region that you can spend a week here. Try to plan your Jungfrau Region itinerary with three days: 1 day for the Interlaken and lake, 1 day for the Swiss village town (Lauterbrunnen/Grindelwald), and 1 day for the Jungfraujoch. 

Overview: Planning for Jungfrau Region Itinerary

Hopefully, this Jungfrau region itinerary helps you plan your trip to one of Switzerland’s most beautiful destinations. Four days in the Jungfrau region is never enough time to really explore it in detail. There are so many enjoyable things to do in the Jungfrau region that you can easily spend more days in the area. What’s difficult is working out how to experience the best of the Jungfrau region for your own itinerary.

Are you planning a trip to the Jungfrau region? Let us know if you have any questions about this Jungfrau region itinerary or how to spend a holiday in Jungfrau.

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Jungfrau Region itinerary