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The idyllic Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen is probably one of the most photographed places in the world, dazzling millions of eyeballs each year with its perfect combination of rockfaces, valleyscapes and waterfalls…
… but what is there to actually do in Lauterbrunnen? You know, besides cry and take pictures?
First time visitors are often shocked to discover just how tiny Lauterbrunnen really is… but know where to look, and you’ll find plenty of fun things to do!
Read on for a list of my favourites, after two visits (and a stalkerish desire to return again ASAP).
Save this list of Things to Do in Lauterbrunnen for Later!
You’ll be very glad you did.
1. Creep up behind Staubbach Falls
One of the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen is to go waterfall chasing… this is the Valley of 72 Waterfalls after all. The most famous one? Staubbach Falls, conveniently accessible from the train station and Lauterbrunnen main street.
One of the coolest features of the famous Staubbach Falls (again, the most iconic waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen) is that you can actually hike up to a little path that takes you behind them!
Yup, that’s right – get right up close and personal to this giant waterfall. Aaand maybe bring a poncho 😉
To get to this viewpoint, just follow the main road in town and walk towards the falls. You’ll soon see a barn that has “Staubbach falls” marked on it, and to your right you’ll see a path that goes upwards towards the viewpoint.
2. Feel the force of the Trümmelbach Falls
Of course, you shouldn’t limit your Lauterbrunnen waterfall chasing to only the Staubbach Falls! In the summer months, the Trümmelbach Falls open for business, and they’re another classic Lauterbrunnen must-see.
While they sadly weren’t open during my visit, they’re nonetheless something I’d recommend you check out because I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews.
Basically, the Trümmelbach Falls are a series of 10 glacial waterfalls hidden inside a mountain, made accessible to the public through a series of tunnels and lifts. Awesome right? Click here for more info.
3. Go hiking
Next, one of the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen is to go hiking.
All around town, you’ll find bright yellow signs that point you towards different trails, so you have no excuse 😉
I hiked a small portion of the hike to Mürren and the views were stunning, although most prefer to take the cable car up and hike down instead. The way up IS fairly steep, so I would recommend that alternative if you’re not looking for an intense workout.
Click here for a list of Lauterbrunnen hiking trails you can try out!
4. Frolic in search of scenic viewpoints and photographs
Lauterbrunnen, without exaggeration, is just one massive photogenic wonderland.
If you love taking photos as much as I do, then you’ll soon discover that there’s zero shortage of beautiful corners and details to photograph. Here is a roundup of my favourite views in Lauterbrunnen!
5. Visit the Lauterbrunnen Valley museum
If you’re looking for a rainy day activity or just curious to learn more about the local history/culture of Lauterbrunnen, you can pop into the little Lauterbrunnen Valley Museum, with various displays including vintage skis and a hotel room set-up from the 1900s.
… Okay, so it might not sound like the most exhilarating of all things to do in Lauterbrunnen, but I wanted to diversify this list a little. Sue me.
6. Witness traditional lace-making from local women
Lace making has been part of Lauterbrunnen’s local traditions since the 17th century, and visitors now have the unique opportunity to learn more about it for free through weekly workshops and demos.
You can find more details here.
7. Go BASE Jumping
Lauterbrunnen is well-known as a global hub for BASE jumping, the (dangerous) extreme sport which involves throwing oneself off a fixed object (e.g. cliff, building, etc.) with a parachute or wingsuit.
I’m not sure I could ever do it, but if this is the kind of adrenaline rush you’re looking for, BASE jumping is definitely one of THE Lauterbrunnen things to do.
You can click here for a guide to BASE jumping in Lauterbrunnen, written by a former local.
8. Ride the Lauterbrunnen cable car up to Grütschalp
If it’s a nice view and an easy hike you’re after, take the affordable cable car from the Lauterbrunnen village up to Grütschalp, where there are a variety of easy and flat hiking trails you can enjoy.
You can click here to learn more about opening/closing times.
9. Take a ride on the Lauterbrunnen to Wengen train
If you want a cool, unique view over the Lauterbrunnen valley, the short train ride up to Wengen is a good alternative to hiking!
I did this trip and really enjoyed the views as we climbed up the valley, although to be honest, there’s not a ton going on in Wengen besides the ski resort.
If you’d really like to make an adventure out of this, extend your trip and go all the way up to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe! This is widely considered to be one of the best train rides you can do in Switzerland, and I can’t wait to try it myself someday!
10. Grab a drink at the town’s only pub
Last but not least, after a long day of sightseeing and running around, I could definitely understand if you’re craving a drink to enjoy.
Well, the good news for indecisive folks is that Lauterbrunnen is so tiny, it only has one pub!! So, hop on over to the Hornerpub if you’re looking to grab a drink with tourists and locals alike.
Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Lauterbrunnen?
Let me know in the comments so I can add more of the best Lauterbrunnen activities to the list. Happy and safe travels! 🙂