Grindelwald: Day Trips and Tours from Lucerne

Situated on the north side of the Eiger in the Jungfrau region is the alpine town of Grindelwald. This picturesque town is one of the most popular Swiss destinations throughout the year, offering many opportunities for outdoor activities.

Join a day trip to Grindelwald from Lucerne to escape the city routine and discover the beauty and wonders of life in the Swiss countryside.

Here's all you need to know about Grindelwald, one of the most exciting day trips from Lucerne.

How to get to Grindelwald from Lucerne?

Grindelwald is located about 50 kilometers south of Lucerne and is easily accessible by car and train. All routes to the alpine resort town go via Interlaken.

From Lucerne to Grindelwald by car

The fastest route to Grindelwald from Lucerne by car is via the A8. Along this 85-kilometer scenic drive, you will see many lakes. When you reach Interlaken, take exit 25 and continue to Grindelwald.

Under normal driving conditions, you should reach Grindelwald in about 1.5 hours without any stops along the way.

From Lucerne to Grindelwald by public transport

There are multiple train services to Grindelwald that depart every hour from the central train station in Lucerne. The most direct route is to take the train to Interlaken Ost, where you change and continue to Grindelwald. This journey takes roughly 2.5 hours.

Alternatively, you can take a more scenic route, calling at Bern (or Olten) and changing at Interlaken. Allow about 3 hours to complete this train journey.

Guided tour to Grindelwald from Lucerne

For a more relaxed and stress-free excursion to Grindelwald from Lucerne, there are many guided tours that will spare you from driving or planning train rides. Many of these tours will include transportation by coach and provide a guide so that you can make the most of your day.

Guided tours can last an entire day or multiple days if you want to explore more of the Swiss countryside.

What is the typical itinerary?

Most excursions to Grindelwald will begin at a meeting point in Lucerne, unless your tour includes a hotel pickup. After you have met your group, your guided tour will begin by coach and along the way you can admire many lakes in the Bernese Oberland.

Depending on your itinerary, you will stop in Interlaken to stretch your legs, go some shopping or even try outdoor activities in the rivers and valleys. The excursion will continue to Grindelwald, usually by train, which you can explore by foot. You may also wish to go up the mountain in the cable car.

When the tour ends, you return to Interlaken by train and from there you will be taken back to Lucerne by coach. Multi-day tours typically cover more villages in the region and include overnight stays at hotels.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Grindelwald?

Day trip to Grindelwald plus Interlaken from Lucerne

The most popular and affordable way to visit Grindelwald from Lucerne is with a day trip, most of which also stop at Interlaken. These excursions begin in Lucerne and are partly guided.

The first stop on your coach ride is Interlaken, where you can go for shopping or on an outdoor adventure. The journey continues to Grindelwald, usually by train. From there you will be treated to a spectacular view of the surrounding peaks and a cable car ride. These full-day excursions usually last about 10 hours.

Mountain adventure day trip to Grindelwald from Lucerne

If you would like to add a generous dose of adrenaline to your excursion to Grindelwald from Lucerne, there are many day trips with activities on the mountains.

After strolling through the alpine resort town, you head to Mount First. There have the option to try adrenaline-fueled activities, such as cliff walks, zip lining, mountain cart rides and riding Trottibike scooters.

2-day trip to Grindelwald plus Jungfraujoch from Lucerne

To get a fuller experience in the Swiss countryside with time to explore at your leisure, there are 2-day trips which combine a visit to Grindelwald with a jaunt to Jungfraujoch.

These excursions are perfect for smaller groups and give you the opportunity to try out many activities, such as hiking or culinary experiences.

5-day private tour to Grindelwald plus Bern and Zürich from Lucerne

For a fuller experience in central Switzerland, consider a 5-day private tour that includes Grindelwald, Interlaken, Bern and Zürich. These tours are very flexible and allow you to explore the lakes and mountains at your own pace.

Private multi-day tours are ideal for small groups and families, so that you will have the undivided attention of your experienced guide.

How much does a day trip to Grindelwald from Lucerne cost?

The basic guided tours to Grindelwald and Interlaken from Lucerne cost about €85 per person. This includes transportation by coach, train tickets and a guide.

Mountain adventure day trips typically cost between €150 to €200 per person. This includes transportation by coach, train tickets, a guide and equipment for activities. The cost varies according to the activities included.

A 2-day trip to Grindelwald plus Jungfraujoch can cost €500 per person. Included in the price are overnight accommodation at a 3-star hotel, breakfast and travel fare in the mountains. No hotel pickup in Lucerne or other activities are included.

For a 5-day private tour in central Switzerland, expect to pay €8,000 to  €9,000 per person, depending on the size of your group. These tours offer hotel and airport pickup and include lunch, accommodation at 3-star hotels in Lucerne, Interlaken and Zürich. You may have to pay admission to certain attractions.

What will you see and do?

Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lover’s will absolutely adore Grindelwald and will find many areas to explore and activities to do. The alpine resort town offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, including the magnificent Jungfraujoch.

When visiting the area, be sure to go on the First Cliff Walk, a 40-meter walkway and swinging bridge. There are also a few hiking trails that begin in Grindelwald and pass by the Bachalpsee Lake.

For a more action-packed excursion in Grindelwald, be sure to try paragliding and the zip-line, mountain cart or Trottibike scooter rides.

When is the best time to visit Grindelwald?

The best time to visit Grindelwald is between June and October, however the weather in this part of the Alps is pleasant all year-round. The temperatures in July and August are rather mild and it rains very little during that time.

Are there any tours to Grindelwald from other cities in Switzerland?

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

• Day trips to Grindelwald from Zürich

Travel tips

• Book and plan your tours and activities as soon as possible, as many can sell out during peak tourist season.
• Wear comfortable shoes to get around town or hiking boots if you intend to venture further out.
• Dress in layers of warm clothing and pack something waterproof just in case it rains.
• If you intend to travel by train, check the schedule and buy your tickets in advance.
• If you suffer from acrophobia or vertigo, it might be best to avoid the First Cliff walk.