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Grindelwald

Experiential journeys will make you a storyteller
About Grindelwald
Nestled in the bosom of the Bernese Alps, the quaint little city of Grindelwald offers a befitting abode in the heart of nature. The city of Grindelwald Switzerland is home to about 3,600 natives living here, and invites tourists from across the world. With its alpine beauty and clear skies, the city is a welcome respite from the bustle of the busy city life. Set against the backdrop of some prominent towering mountain peaks, Grindelwald is one of the most scenic tourist destinations in the country.

Along with its clear, shimmering lakes, the beautiful flower-clad hiking trails and rolling green valleys, the beauty of Grindelwald is quite unparalleled. The magnificence of the enchanting Grindelwald is further heightened with the splendid attractions found here. From the ice-covered regions of the Jungfraujoch peak, with its Ice Palace and Observatory Deck, to the natural lakes of Bachalpsee and Brienz, or the Canyon with its mammoth spider’s web, the attractions in Grindelwald are too many to be numbered.

Apart from its iconic tourist spots, the city of Grindelwald is best known for its unique activities and experiences. In winter, the city becomes a pilgrim site for skiers from across the world, while in summers, the hiking trails found here become a popular travel destination for both local as well as foreign hikers. The city also boasts of rides and experiences found nowhere else in the world, the First Flier, First Glider and the Alpine Sensations are only few of them.

Grindelwald is also home to a number of unique land sports, such as mountain carting, summer sledding and trotti biking. Moreover, the weather in Grindelwald remains cool throughout the year. The summer months between May to September, are generally cool and wet, while the winters here, between November to March, are freezing and snow-clad. Owing to its elevation, the city experiences a certain amount of precipitation throughout the year. All this and much more makes Grindelwald the ideal vacation destination and should get a spot in your list of places to travel.
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Grindelwald FAQ's

Which are the must attractions to visit in Grindelwald?

1. Jungfraujoch
Located at a height of 3,454 meters above sea level, Jungfraujoch is a saddle in the heart of the Bernese Alps. Also known as the Top of Europe, this ice-clad natural pass houses the highest railway station in Europe. The impressive journey in a cogwheel train starts from the valley floor of Interlaken, and takes its rider through scenic sights until it reaches the point of summit.

The average temperature at Jungfraujoch usually remains below zero throughout the year, so it is best to wear multiple layers while visiting here.

Location: 3801 Fieschertal, Switzerland
Timings:
- Monday to Friday:8.00AM: 12.00PM and 1.30PM – 05.00PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 8.00AM – 12.00PM

2. Sphinx Observatory Deck
The Sphinx Observatory Deck is one of the highest observation Decks in Switzerland, located only a short distance away from the Jungfraujoch Railway Station. A short lift ride from the station takes one to the Observatory Deck.

Located at a height of 3,571 meters above sea level, the Deck commands stunning, panoramic views of the surrounding peaks of Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger. The Deck is also home to two large scientific laboratories, and a weather observation station. 

Location: Eigergletscher-Jungfraujoch, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Timings: 09.00AM-04.15PM on all days of the week.

3. Lake Bachalpsee
Known as the “blue jewel”, this scenic lake nestles in the lap of the Bernese Oberland. Located at an elevation of 2,265 meters above sea level, the beautiful, clear Bachalpsee is known for accurately reflecting the sky stretching above it.

The Lake can easily be reached by hiking from the Grindelwald- First the summit). The stunning green hills surrounding the lake boasts of wildflowers in bloom throughout the year, and offers a lovely spot for picnics and hiking to the visitors.

Location: Bernese Oberland
Timings: Open 24 hours.

4. Glacier Canyon
A natural masterpiece, the gorge of the Lower Grindelwald Glacier boasts of a one-kilometer walkway through impressive rock galleries and tunnels. Watch the light play in different shapes and shades as you walk along the 300-meter tall walls of the gorge, and experience one of the most sought-after attractions in Grindelwald Switzerland.

The gorge introduces its visitors to sights of natural wonders, such as moulins and green and blue cut marbles. The most impressive attraction of the gorge is the 170-meter square long spider’s web net, which stretches over the river in the gorge. The web is walkable, and provides an absolutely unparalleled and unique experience to anyone visiting. 

Location: Lower Grindelwald Glacier, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Timings: Saturday- Thursday: 9.30am-6pm | Fridays: 09.30am-10.00pm
Entry Fee: For adults: SFR 19 | For children: SFR 10

5. Mannlichen
Located only a short cable car ride away from Grindelwald Switzerland, the scenic mountain of Mannlichen is one of the top ski destinations of the country. If you’re a nature lover, an enthusiastic hiker, or a lover of outdoor sports, you should not miss a trip to Mannlichen. 

Apart from its winter sport options, such as skiing and other snow sports, Mannlichen also offers its visitors an opportunity to try out summer sledding. The beautiful valley, full to the brim with its floral beauty, is also home to a number of hiking trails and important summit points that command a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding peaks.

Location: Bernese Oberland, Switzerland

6. Reichenbach Falls
A site well known in pop culture as the place where Sherlock Holmes vanquished his arch nemesis Morairty, the Reichenbach Falls is the tallest waterfall in Switzerland. Now, a plaque by the waterfall pays tribute to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, to whom the place owes much of its popularity, and a large white star marks the place where the final face-off took place.

The top of the waterfall can be reached by a hike, or a train ride along the slope. The scenic waterfall, dropping to a distance of about 250 meters, is a spectacle to watch out for, and is one of the most popular attractions in Grindelwald Switzerland.

Location: Hausenstrasse 34, 3860 Meiringen, Switzerland

7. Sherlock Holmes Museum
Only a short hike away from Grindelwald is Switzerland’s Sherlock Holmes Museum, in Meiringen. The Museum houses the world’s only reproduction of the parlor of 221B Baker Street, London, as described by Conan Doyle in his novels.

Attractions include Sherlock’s characteristic armchair, his pipe, the fireplace and much more. The Museum also houses a lifelike statue of the detective, engaged in his journal. Another fun new experience recently started by the Museum is the interactive detective experience, where one can get involved in a mystery and try solving it by searching for clues around the area and then piecing them together.

The Museum also has a lounge and a bakery of its own, selling specially made Sherlock-themed products that one must try out.

Location: Bahnhofstrasse 26, 3860 Meiringen, Switzerland
Timings: Thursday: 04.00PM-08.00PM | Weekends: 01.30PM-05.00PM | Remains closed on all other days of the week. 
Entry fee: For children under 12: CHF 3 | For everyone else: CHF 4

Which are the famous things to do in Grindelwald?

1. Experience the Grindelwald First Flyer
Taking off from the Grindelwald First, the First Flyer is an alpine zipline offering a downward ride of about 800 meters. Try out this adrenaline filled activity which goes at a speed of about 84 kilometer per hour, this ziplining experience, surrounded by the scenic Oberland peaks, is one of a kind. Strapped and harnessed, the zipliners are allowed to freefall along the line, until they reach the final point in Schreckfeld.

Location: First Flieger, Bergstation Firstbahn, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

2. Ride a trotti bike scooter in First
Unique to the Swiss Alps, the Trottibike is an interesting vehicle, exactly halfway between a scooter and a bicycle. Among the must try things, the rider must stand on the footboard of the Trotti Bike, and navigate his or her way with the handles and the brakes.

The Trotti Bike is also available as the Mini-trottibike, suitable for children. There are several scenic Trotti Bike trails between Grindelwald First and Bort, offering splendid sights of the meadows and farmhouses as one makes their way through the bumpy roads.

Location: First Flieger, Bergstation Firstbahn, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

3. Try your hand at Paragliding
Where better to have your first paragliding experience than in Jungfrau, the highest railway station in Switzerland. Although the attraction is especially tailor-made for beginners, the Paragliding opportunities here can also be availed by experienced paragliders looking forward to an absolutely stunning adventure.

The Paragliders are assisted by a guide, who not only instructs them on the safety tips and guidelines, but also assists them on the ride itself.

Location:  Dorfstrasse 187, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Price: Starting from CHF 190
Timings: 08.00AM-08.00PM on all days of the week.

4. Visit the Indoor Rope Center in Grindelwald Village
The Grindelwald Seilpark is the biggest indoor rope center in Europe. Offering the delights of high rope climbing in a safe and secure environment, the Seilpark has five different courses for its climbers- the Westgrat, the Medium Legigrat, the White Spider, the North Face and the Sightseeing Flight- each having varying levels of difficulty. 

Location: Dorfstrasse 110, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Timings: The Indoor Seilpark remains closed on Mondays. It operates between 10.00AM-05.00PM on all other days of the week.
Entry prices: Single entry: CHF 37 | Local residents: CHF 27.- (on presentation of ID card) | Up to 16 years: CHF 27

5. Take a hike along the Eiger Trail
Snaking along the Jungfrau ranges of the Bernese Oberland, the Eiger Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Grindelwald Switzerland. The hike starts from the Eiger Glacier Station, and ends at the Alpiglen. The scenic trail, set against the backdrop of the majestic mountain ranges and its green valleys, is an ideal way to explore the beauty of Grindelwald.

Moreover, the hike is of moderate difficulty, and can be availed by both beginners and expert hikers.

Location: Bernese Oberland

6. Try your hand at the Grindelwald Canyon Swing
An experience especially designed for the brave hearted, the Grindelwald Canyon Swing declares itself to be the scariest swing in the world. The riders, standing on a platform, 90 meters above the ground, are attached to a harness, and must jump off the platform and freefall their way between the gigantic canyon walls. The Swing operates at a speed of about 120 kilometer per hour, and is definitely not made for the faint hearted.

Location: 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Timings: Operates between April to November.
Ticket price: Starts from CHF 149.

7. Take a walk along the Cliff Walk by Tissot
Offering a stunning view of the green valleys with the magnificent snow-clad ranges rising behind them, the First Cliff Walk by Tissot is an observation platform jutting from a mountain terrace in Grindelwald First. To reach the Walk, climbers must first make their way across the west side of the First Summit.

The observation platform extends at least 45 meters beyond the mountain land, offering the thrilling sensation of being suspended in the air with nothing below it. 

Location: 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

8. Take a flight with the First Glider
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to soar through the skies like an eagle? The First Glider will answer all your questions! A uniquely crafted experience, a ride on the Glider involves being harnessed to a gigantic artificial eagle.

Carrying at least 4 riders along, the eagle soars along 800 meters at a speed of about 83 kilometers per hour. As you fly along on your stomach, experience the best view of the beautiful landscape from an unparalleled vantage point.

Location: 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

9. Explore the beauty of the Alpine Sensations
Located between the Sphinx Observatory and the Ice Palace on the Jungfrau ranges, the Alpine Sensations is a special hall dedicated to the miners who lost their lives during the construction of the ice corridor. While her one can witness this 250-meter long corridor boasting of a fantastic audiovisual panorama, through a play of light and music that offers a befitting tribute to the lost miners.

Besides that, the highlight of the Alpine Sensations is the animated life-sized snow globe, that contains a life-like model of the entire Jungfrau region.

Location: 3801 Fieschertal, Switzerland

What are the most romantic things to do in Grindelwald?

1. Take a walk along the Mannlichen Romantic Trail
Making its way through an enchanting landscape between Mannlichen and Alpiglen, the Mannlichen Romantic Trail is best experienced with a partner. Make your way through the snaking pathway as you and your partner enjoy some quality time, alsong with the surrounding sights of meadows and pasturelands with a boastful growth of buttercups, gentians, anemones and much more.

Location: Mannlichen-Alpiglen
Timings: June-October.

2. Take a cable car ride to Grindelwald First
There is nothing quite like taking a cable car ride with a loved one as you scale unprecedented heights of the Grindelwald First mountain. The picturesque surroundings of the towering peaks as you make your way through the air and the serenity of travelling between the Swiss Alps, is all quite unmatched by any other experience, making it one of the most romantic things to do in Grindelwald Switzerland. 

Location: Grindelwald First

3. Hike along the Faulhorn
The Faulhorn Hike Trail is one of the most popular and scenic trails in Grindelwald. Surrounded by glittering blue lakes on all sides, the trail invited awe and admiration from all travelling through it. To heighten its beauty, you can choose to take a partner along, and enjoy the beautiful trail together. 

Location: Bernese Oberland

4. Take a boat ride on Lake Brienz
One of the best ways to take in the beauty of the city is to go on a boat ride at Lake Brienz. Sail through the turquoise waters of the little lake with your partner, and make the best of the ride as it makes its way through the beautiful green ranges towering along the shores.

Location: Interlaken, Switzerland

5. Have a candlelight dinner on the Pfingstegg cable car
Imagine a romantic dinner with your partner, while suspended at a height of several hundred feet from the ground, as the open sky twinkles with stars in the backdrop. The candlelight dinner at Pfingstegg is one of the most beautiful and unique romantic experiences one could possibly have here, and is an ideal experience for both unmarried and married couples alike.

Location: Rybigässli 25, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Price: Starting from CHF 499.

What is Grindelwald famous for?

With its beautiful mountains and vast green valleys, the city of Grindelwald is best known for its range of outdoor sport activities. The city boasts of a number of uniquely designed rides and experience, with the Trotti Bike, Glider, Summer Sleds and Cable cars only being some of them. The city is also known for its beautiful blue lakes, with its cruises and flower-clad surroundings.

What is the best time to visit Grindelwald?

The best time to visit Grindelwald is between the months of June to September. Grindelwald in Switzerland experiences cold weather throughout the year. However, the period between June to September has a more pleasant, dry weather, with little to negligible rainfall.

Since most of the attractions in Grindelwald are outdoor experiences, it is best to visit the city during this time. The average highest temperature recorded between these months is fifteen (15) degree Celsius, although it may rise higher between July and August.

What currency is used in Grindelwald?

The official currency used in Grindelwald Switzerland is the Swiss Francs, abbreviated as SFR or CHF. Currency notes are available in the denomination of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1000 francs.

Do you need a visa to travel to Grindelwald?

Residents from certain countries will require a visa to travel to Grindelwald Switzerland. EU Nationals and US residents do not require a visa for short-term stay (less than 90 days), but require a valid passport to gain entry. Furthermore, All Indian nationals will require a business or a tourist visa to enter Switzerland.

How much does a trip to Grindelwald cost?

An average cost for a solo trip to Grindelwald might cost around CHF 129, while the average cost for a couple’s trip would cost around CHF 257. However, rates and prices may vary depending upon the choice of accommodation, travel, time of visit and activities opted for.

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Is Grindelwald worth a visit?

Yes. Grindelwald is definitely worth a visit, whether you want to simply bask amidst the beautiful surroundings, or want to try your hands at adventure sports. With its unparalleled beauty and scenic sights, a visit to Grindelwald is a must-try for all.

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How far is Grindelwald from Interlaken to travel?

Grindelwald is about 21 kilometers away from Interlaken. It would take around 30 minutes to travel between the two places in a bus or car, and around 4 hours and 30 minutes to hike between them.

What is there to do in Grindelwald in september?

Travelers can avail the best of Grindelwald during the month of September. The scenic trails of Eiger, Jungfrau and Männlichen; outdoor sports like paragliding, skiing, or hiking; adventure rides such as the Grand Canyon Swing, the First Flyer or the First Glider- one can try their hand at anything during this month.

How do you travel around Grindelwald?

The most common way to travel around the city of Grindelwald is on foot. Most of the important places here are connected by fairly accessible hiking trails. Apart from this, there are bikes, bicycles and other mountain-based vehicles. Apart from that, The heights can be scaled either on foot, or by trains and cable cars.

How far is Grindelwald from Zurich?

Grindelwald is about 260 kilometers away from Zurich. It would take around 2 hours to travel between the two places by car, along the A8 Highway.

Which place is better, Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald?

It would be Grinderwald. Although both Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald boast of their own unique natural beauty, and take pride in their beautiful landscapes. Grindelwald is home to a larger variety of hiking trails and outdoor activities. Being situated at a higher height, the city invites more skiers during winters, and more hiking enthusiasts during the summer months, than Lauterbrunnen.

Which airport is closest to Grindelwald?

The closest international airport to Grindelwald is the Zurich-Kloten Airport. It takes around 2.5 hours to travel from Zurich-Kloten to Grindelwald by car along the A8 Highway. Alternatively, one can also choose to avail Basel-Mulhouse Airport, which is only a little further away. It takes around 3 hours to travel between Basel-Mulhouse and Grindelwald.

Which are the best places to enjoy shopping in Grindelwald?

1. Eiger
A modern shopping mall set against the backdrop of the rising mountains, Eiger+ is the city’s newest addition to its retail facilities. The Mall, designed and fitted with the best modern amenities, offers banking, pharmaceutical and shopping services. The Supermarket here is equipped with a wide range of items, ranging from eatables to fresh goods, to clothing items and others.

Location: Dorfstrasse 101, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Timings: Monday-Fridays: 08.00AM- 06.30PM | Saturday: 08.00AM-05.00PM
- The Mall remains closed on Sundays.

2. Grindelwald Main Street
One of the most popular places for shopping in Grindelwald is at Hauptstrasse, the main street of the city. A number of little shops cluster around the street, selling local items at a budget friendly rate. Items sold here include jewelry, swiss watches, grocery items and much more. A number of small cafes and bakeries can also be found here. These shops generally open in the morning, and operate till late hours.

Location: Grindelwald, 3818, 3818, Switzerland

3. Montbell
Montbell in Grindelwald is one of the most popular sports goods stores of the city. Items sold here include sportswear for both men and women, backpacks, water bottles, ropes, sleeping bags and much more. If you’re looking to buy items to help in your hiking or trekking expeditions, Montbell is the best place to go. 

Location: Dorfstrasse 107, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Timings:
- Between 21st September to 30th September: 8:30AM - 10:30PM
- Between 1st October to 31st October:  9:30AM – 07.00PM
- Between 1st November to 6th December: 9:30AM - 06:30PM
- Between 7th December to Mid-June: 9:30AM - 07:00PM
- Between end of June to End of August: 8:30AM – 10.30PM

Where are the places To hike in Grindelwald?

1. From Grindelwald to Bachalpsee
The hike from Grindelwald First (a minor summit) to Bachalpsee is a fairly easy one, and can easily be attempted by beginners. The trail takes you across a grassy hill surrounded by tall peaks, and takes less than an hour to complete.

Best time: July- September

2. From Bachalpsee to Grosse Scheidegg
Once at Bachalpsee, the climb turns a bit difficult, and the trail travels through multiple saddles and ridges before it reaches Grosse Scheidegg. The trek between these two places is fairly difficult, and is best suited for expert hikers. That said, the trail takes its trekkers across multiple little lakes and beautiful floral growth along the way. 

Best time: July- September

3. Walk to Wengen
The trek starts from Grund in Grindelwald, and makes its way to Wengen in the Alpiglen. The trail snakes its way along the daunting North Face of the Eiger peaks, and offers a stunning vantage of the surrounding mountains of Monch and Jungfrau. Also, the trail to Wengen is moderately easy, and can be availed by all.

Best time: July-August

Which are best places for scenic views in Grindelwald ?

1. The Sphinx Observatory Deck
Situated at a dizzying height, the Sphinx observatory Deck offers the best possible view of the surrounding majestic peaks of Jungfrau, Monch and Eiger in Grindelwald. 

2. The Tissot Walk
The Tissot Walk in Grindelwald is known for the beautiful view it commands of the surrounding green valleys and the snow-clad mountains. 

3. Bachalpsee Lake
The Bachalpsee Lake offers one of the most picturesque views in Grindelwald. The shining, clear lake, nestled amidst an abundant wildflower growth, is one of the most scenic places to visit in Grindelwald.

4. The Bernese Oberland Railway
The Bernese Oberland Railway takes travelers from Interlaken to the Jungfrau Peak. As it makes the steep climb to about 3,500 meters above sea level, the train ride offers some of the most stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Which are the adventure activities to do in Grindelwald?

1. Skiing
What better way to explore the ice-packed slope than to ski across them. The Jungfrau region of Grindelwald offers the best skiing experience in Switzerland. The Jungfrau Ski Region offers skiing trails with all levels, and can be tried by beginners as well as the experts.

Location: Jungfrau Region
Price: Starting from CHF 59
Best Time: Winter months, between November to March.

2. Snowboarding
The Jungfrau region also offers some of the best snowboarding adventures in the country. Being clad with snow throughout the year, snowboarding here is a perennial experience. Moreover, the snowboarding trails available here can be charted by both experts and beginners.

Location: Jungfrau Region
Price: Starting from CHF 59
Best Time: Winter months, between November to March.

3. Toboggan Ride
The summer Toboggan is a special attraction unique to Grindelwald. The experience involves riding down the slopes of Pfingstegg, whether in a pair or alone, and then making your way back up to the starting point. Travelling at a speed of about 45 kilometer per hour, the toboggan takes you through lush green alpine fields, boasting of the rich Alpine beauty.

Location: Rybigässli 25, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Price: For adults: CHF 5.50 | For children up to the age of 15: CHF 3.50
Best Time: Summer months, between June to October.

4. Mountain Cart
To find an alternative to the winter sleds, the people of Grindelwald came up with the ingenious idea of the mountain cart- a cross between a sled and a go-kart. These Mountain Carts provide a fun sled-like experience during the summers. Operating on wheels, these carts can be easily navigated by both adults and children, and offer fun rides through the open green valleys.

Location: Egg Boden, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
Price: For adults: CHF19 | For children: CHF 10
Best Time: Summer months, between June to October.

Which are the famous nightlife places in Grindelwald?

1. The Disco Mescalero
A part of the Hotel Spinne, the Disco Mascellaro is a prolific nightlife hub in Grindelwald. The Disco serves delectable Mexican snacks and food, and has a dance floor that remains open till almost dawn. Occasionally, they also organize live gigs and events here.

Location: Dorfstrasse 136, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

2. The Challi Bar
Housed within the Hotel Kreuz and Post, Challi Bar is known for its selection of blues and rock music. Along with a comprehensive selection of beverages, the Bar also offers delicious finger food that properly complements the charged atmosphere at Challi.

Location: Dorfstrasse 85, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

3. Gepsi Bar
A trendy Gastro bar in Eiger, the Gepsi Bar and Smoker’s Lounge boasts of a splendid variety of food, gin and cocktail creations. The bar regularly hosts music shows and gigs, and boasts in its selection of country music.

Location: Dorfstrasse 133, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland

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