Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary in the Swiss Alps
- heyitskara23
- Oct 6, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 22, 2024
Switzerland is a dream destination for anyone with a passion for nature, adventure, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
If you’re planning a trip to the Swiss Alps, this 5-day itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the best these two regions have to offer.
Day 1 Arrival in Interlaken and Explore the Town
Morning: Arrival in Interlaken
Interlaken is perfectly situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, making it the ideal base for exploring the Swiss Alps. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to breathe in the crisp mountain air.
Afternoon: Explore Lake Thun or Lake Brienz
Option 1: Lake Thun
Head to Lake Thun for a peaceful afternoon boat ride. You can catch a cruise from Interlaken West, taking in the stunning views of the Alps reflected in the crystal-clear waters. Along the way, stop in nearby towns like Spiez to explore its beautiful castle and vineyards.
Option 2: Lake Brienz and Rothorn Bahn
If you arrive early, I recommend Lake Brienz for dramatic scenery. Known for its turquoise-blue waters, the lake offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs and charming villages. You can take a scenic boat cruise or rent a kayak to explore the lake at your leisure.
Experience the Brienz Rothorn Bahn
After a scenic cruise, take a ride on the historic cogwheel railway that ascends from Brienz to the summit of Brienzer Rothorn.
At the top, you’ll find hiking trails and stunning panoramas of Lake Brienz and the surrounding Alps. Reservations are advisable, particularly in summer.
After your adventure, return to Interlaken.
Evening: Stroll and Dinner in Interlaken
Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll through Interlaken’s charming streets. Don’t miss the Höheweg promenade for spectacular sunset views over the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. For dinner, visit a local café or dine at one of the many restaurants.
We enjoyed several meals at the Asia Restaurant, conveniently located near the station. They offer a variety of Asian dishes at great prices—perfect after a day of excursions!
Day 2: Lauterbrunnen Valley – Waterfalls and Adventure
You can easily stay in Interlaken for the duration of your trip and visit nearby villages as outlined below.
However, to fully embrace the mountains and wake up in a picturesque Swiss village, consider spending three nights in Lauterbrunnen or nearby areas.
I stayed in Lauterbrunnen throughout my trip, and I have no regrets!
Disclaimer: This is going to be a leg day!
Be prepared for lots of walking, hiking, and exploring, so make sure you’ve got your comfortable shoes on—your legs will thank you later!
Morning: Lauterbrunnen Valley and Staubbach Falls
Begin your day with a short 20-minute train ride from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, renowned for its jaw-dropping valley setting and 72 waterfalls.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by Staubbach Falls, one of Europe’s tallest free-falling waterfalls, plunging nearly 300 metres from a steep cliff and creating a mist that often fills the valley.
Tip: Follow the hiking trail behind Staubbach Falls for a unique view of the waterfall and valley.
Mid-Morning: Trümmelbach Falls
A short bus ride or walk from the village centre brings you to Trümmelbach Falls, an underground marvel of glacial waterfalls thundering through the mountain's interior.
This is a must-see for anyone interested in witnessing the raw power of alpine nature.
Afternoon: Cable Car to Mürren or Schilthorn
After exploring the valley, take the cable car up to Mürren, a car-free mountain village perched high above Lauterbrunnen.
Mürren offers panoramic views of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. For a more adrenaline-filled experience, continue up to Schilthorn, famous for being a filming location for the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
Here, you can dine at the 360-degree rotating restaurant, Piz Gloria, while soaking in views that stretch as far as Germany’s Black Forest on a clear day.
Day 3: Jungfraujoch – The Top of Europe
Early Morning: Train to Jungfraujoch
One of the highlights of any trip to the Swiss Alps is a visit to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe".
Start your day early by taking the train to Kleine Scheidegg where you will board the Jungfrau Railway, which will take you to the highest train station in Europe.
Mid-Morning: Explore the Jungfraujoch
Once you’ve arrived, take your time to explore the many attractions at the summit:
Alpine Sensation: A multimedia show that walks you through the history of the Jungfrau Railway and the pioneers who built it.
Ice Palace: Stroll through tunnels carved entirely of ice, featuring illuminated ice sculptures for a magical experience.
Sphinx Observatory: Step onto the observation deck for panoramic views of the surrounding Aletsch Glacier and snow-capped peaks stretching into the horizon.
Snow Activities: Depending on the season, try activities like sledging, snow tubing, or even zip-lining across the glacier.
Afternoon: Scenic Cable Car to Männlichen
After exploring Jungfraujoch, take the train back down to Kleine Scheidegg. From there, board the cable car to Männlichen, a stunning mountain offering breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
At Männlichen, you can take a leisurely walk along the panoramic trail or simply relax and soak in the alpine atmosphere.
Late Afternoon: Return via Eiger Pass
For your return journey, descend via the Eiger Pass, which offers picturesque views of the Eiger North Face, with stunning mountain landscapes surrounding you. Enjoy the scenic train ride back to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen.
Evening: Relax in Lauterbrunnen
After an action-packed day, return to Lauterbrunnen for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a traditional Swiss dinner or sip a glass of wine at one of the many lakeside restaurants.
Day 4: Discover the Beauty of Grindelwald and First Mountain
Morning: Journey to Grindelwald
If your coming from Lauterbrunnen, take the train heading towards Interlaken Ost, but get off at Zweilütschinen—the first stop—to switch to the train bound for Grindelwald Terminal. From Grindewald Terminal, take bus 121 or 123 to First.
Mid-Morning: First Cable Car and Cliff Walk
Upon arrival, head straight for the Grindelwald-First cable car. This ride takes you up to the First Mountain, offering jaw-dropping views of the Eiger North Face and surrounding valleys.
At the summit, take on the First Cliff Walk, an adrenaline-pumping skywalk that clings to the mountain’s edge, offering heart-stopping views of the valley below and the peaks ahead.
Late Morning: Hike to Bachalpsee
Take the scenic hike from First to Bachalpsee Lake (approximately 1 hour each way).
This gentle trail leads you to one of the most stunning alpine lakes in the region, known for its crystal-clear waters and mirror-like reflections of the surrounding peaks.
It’s an excellent spot for a picnic or simply to soak in the tranquillity of the Swiss Alps.
Afternoon: First Flyer or First Glider
For thrill-seekers, don’t miss the chance to try the First Flyer, a zip line that lets you soar 800 metres down the mountain at speeds of up to 84 km/h.
Alternatively, the First Glider offers a bird-like experience, allowing you to be suspended face-down as you glide through the air over the alpine scenery.
Make sure to reserve your slot in the summer as they get sold out.
Mountain Cart or Trottibike Scooter Ride
Add more thrill to your day with a Mountain Cart or Trottibike Scooter ride.
Both options allow you to descend the mountain with a mix of speed and fun, offering a unique way to enjoy the alpine landscape.
Late Afternoon: Explore Grindelwald Village
Back in Grindelwald, take some time to explore the charming village.
Visit local shops for Swiss souvenirs, indulge in local cheese and chocolate, or relax at a café with views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 5: Outdoor Adventure
Morning: Head to Interlaken (and check out if your are staying elsewhere)
On this day, we checked out around 10 AM after a lovely stroll at Staubbach Falls and headed back to Interlaken.
We stored our suitcase at Interlaken station for a few hours, where convenient luggage storage is available for travellers, accommodating even large suitcases.
Mid-Day: Harder Kulm
Take the funicular up to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain. Harder Kulm offers a panoramic viewpoint with stunning views over Interlaken, its two lakes, and the snowy peaks in the distance.
Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping and Departure
Spend your final afternoon shopping for souvenirs in Interlaken. The town is known for its highquality Swiss watches, traditional crafts, and, of course, Swiss chocolate.
Prepare for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Swiss Alps.
Summary: Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary in the Swiss Alps
Day 1: Arrival in Interlaken
Arrive in Interlaken, settle in and explore the town
Option 1: Boat ride on Lake Thun and visit Spiez
Option 2: Scenic boat cruise on Lake Brienz and ride the Brienz Rothorn Bahn
Evening: Stroll along Höheweg promenade and dine locally
Day 2: Lauterbrunnen Valley
Short train ride from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen
Visit Staubbach Falls and hike behind it
Explore Trümmelbach Falls (underground waterfalls)
Cable car to Mürren for panoramic mountain views
Option to continue to Schilthorn for a meal at Piz Gloria
Day 3: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Early train to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest train station
Explore attractions: Alpine Sensation, Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory
Return via scenic routes to Mannlichen for leisurely walks or relaxation
Day 4: Grindelwald and First Mountain
Travel to Grindelwald and take the First cable car
Experience First Cliff Walk with stunning valley views
Hike to Bachalpsee Lake for peaceful alpine scenery
Optional: Try the First Flyer zipline, First Glider, or Mountain Cart
Explore Grindelwald village and return to Lauterbrunnen
Day 5: Departure
Morning: Take funicular to Harder Kulm for panoramic views of Interlaken
Afternoon: Souvenir shopping in Interlaken
Departure from Interlaken, with onward travel to Zurich or other destinations
Good to Know Before Your Visit to the Swiss Alps
Transportation
Consider getting the Oberland Pass for unlimited travel in the Bernese Oberland region or the Swiss Travel Pass for broader coverage across Switzerland.
Plan Ahead
Use the SBB website or app for real-time schedules and route planning. Reservations are recommended for popular scenic routes, especially during peak seasons.
Weather
The weather in the Alps can be unpredictable. Check live cams before heading out, and if visibility is poor, consider waiting for better conditions.
As your 5-day journey through the Swiss Alps comes to an end, you'll leave with lasting memories of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and peaceful alpine moments. From Interlaken’s charm to the stunning views at Jungfraujoch, the Swiss Alps offer something truly special for every traveller.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your own unforgettable adventure in this stunning region.
Until next time! Auf Wiedersehen!
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