How to Spend ONE or TWO DAYS in Grindelwald, Switzerland: 1 or 2-Day Itinerary

Dreaming of snow-capped mountains and some of the most spectacular scenery in central Europe? Then Grindelwald is the place for you! 

Nestled beneath the mighty Eiger North Face, Grindelwald is one of our absolute favorite destinations in the Swiss Alps. Just being there feels like you’re inside a real-life postcard, and it’s easy to see why it’s a bucket-list destination for so many people. 

We know most travelers only have a day or two in Grindelwald, so if you’re short on time, don’t worry! We’re covering all of the best things to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of Switzerland.

Itinerary Overview

One of the best things about Grindelwald is just how easy it is to get around. The village itself is pretty compact. And most of the restaurants, cafes, bars, and activities in this itinerary are within easy walking distance of the village center (and main train station), so you shouldn’t need a car during your stay. 

Even the gondola stations are fairly close, with both Grindelwald-First and Grindelwald Terminal only around a 10-minute walk away from the center. Local buses also run frequently along the main Dorfstrasse, and they’re incredibly easy to use if you’d rather save your energy for the mountains! 

What really makes Grindelwald stand out, though, is its incredible setting beneath the iconic Eiger North Face. The village also sits in the heart of the Jungfrau region, putting world-famous attractions like Jungfraujoch, Mt. First, and Männlichen all within easy reach, making it one of the very best places to base yourself for a Swiss Alps adventure.

We know that everyone’s idea of a mountain escape is different, so we designed this itinerary to be as flexible as possible, with afternoons on both days offering different options to suit your energy levels and interests.

But before we get to that, here’s a quick overview of what you can do each day: 

Day 1: Ride the gondola up to Mt. First for incredible views and an Alpine hike, then choose between a relaxed afternoon in the village or a thrilling canyon swing into the Grindelwald Glacier before a hearty dinner.

Day 2: Take this guided half-day trip to the spectacular Jungfraujoch, relax at a local Alpine spa, and toast to your trip with traditional Swiss fondue.

Day 1

Breakfast – Barry’s Restaurant, Bar & Lounge

For your first morning in Grindelwald, we’re sending you to one of our favorite breakfast spots, Barry’s Restaurant. It’s right on Dorfstrasse and is part of the beautiful Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort, making it the perfect place to ease into your first day in the Swiss Alps.

We love this spot because it opens bright and early at 7 am every day, and the breakfast buffet is available until 10:30 am from May onwards and until 11 am during the rest of the year. Non-hotel guests are more than welcome to join, and no reservation is required for breakfast, so it’s nice and easy! 

Even though the buffet is open until later in the morning, we do recommend getting here as early as possible. The Mt. First gondola station is only about a 10-minute walk away, and you’ll want to be there right when it opens at 8:30 am. Not only will you beat the crowds, but you’ll also have a much better chance of enjoying the trails and viewpoints before they get busy later in the day. 

Morning/Early afternoon – Ride the gondola up to Mt. First

After breakfast, it’s time to take the gondola up to Mt. First.

The Grindelwald-First gondola runs daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm, and we strongly recommend arriving between 8:30 and 10 am to beat the crowds. Trust us, the early start is worth it, as queues for the mountain’s most popular attractions can quickly climb to one or even two hours from around 11 am onward during peak season.

As the gondola climbs out of the valley, you’ll be treated to incredible views of alpine meadows and the mighty Eiger dominating the landscape above Grindelwald. The journey takes around 25 minutes each way, and you’ll definitely want to keep your camera handy! 

Once you reach the 7,109-foot (2,168-meter) summit, you are free to explore at your own pace. Here are just a few things you can do: 

• First Cliff Walk by Tissot: Head here first before the crowds arrive. This suspended metal walkway clings to the cliffside, offering spectacular views across the Bernese Alps. The viewing platform at the end is one of the best photo spots on the mountain, and access is included with your gondola ticket. 

• Bachalpsee Lake Hike: This easy, well-marked trail takes around an hour and a half round-trip and leads to one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Switzerland. Along the way, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Eiger, and on a calm day, you can even see the surrounding peaks reflected in the water.

• Adrenaline Activities: If you’re looking for a thrill, you can book the First Flyer zipline, First Glider, Mountain Cart (summer only), or scooter bike (summer only) separately. We recommend heading straight to these attractions when you arrive, as the queues can become very long later in the day.

No matter what you decide to do, our advice is to plan on staying up here until at least early afternoon so you don’t have to rush. 

Lunch – Berggasthaus First

After a busy morning exploring Mt. First, you’ll definitely have worked up an appetite! Thankfully, Berggasthaus First is located right beside the summit gondola station, making it the perfect lunch spot with both self-service and à la carte dining options available. 

If the weather is cooperating, we highly recommend grabbing a table on the terrace. Trust us, lunch tastes even better when it’s served with uninterrupted views of the Bernese Alps stretching out in every direction.

For the food, the menu is packed with all the hearty Swiss mountain classics. We loved the crispy rösti topped with melted mountain cheese, while the traditional Swiss cheese fondue is always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re after something a little lighter, you also can’t go wrong with the beef goulash soup. 

Whatever you do, though, save some room for dessert. Their apple strudel is the best of the best, and after a morning of hiking, you’ve definitely earned it!

Afternoon – Explore Mt. First and Grindelwald village

After lunch at Berggasthaus First, you have a choice to make. You can either head back down on the gondola to explore the village or stay up on the mountain a little longer before descending.

Here are a few options: 

• Spend more time on Mt. First: If you want to spend more time on Mt. First, this is a great opportunity to tick off any adrenaline activities you missed in the morning, like the First Flyer or Mountain Cart. The Bachalpsee Lake hike is also lovely to do at a quieter time of day, once the morning crowds have thinned out. Just keep an eye on the time, as the gondola stops running at 5 pm. 

• Walk through Glacier Canyon (Gletscherschlucht): If you’d like to see a different side of Grindelwald, head over to Glacier Canyon. It’s just a 30-minute walk on foot (or a quick 5-ish minute drive) from the village center, and you’ll find a wooden walkway that winds through the canyon past waterfalls and stunning rock walls. The route is suitable for all fitness levels and takes around 45 to 60 minutes to complete; just bear in mind that adults must pay CHF 21 (about €22) and children aged 6 to 16 pay CHF 11 (~€12) to enter.

• Wander Dorfstrasse: If you’re in the mood for a slower-paced afternoon, it’s definitely worth spending some time exploring Grindelwald village. The main street, Dorfstrasse, is lined with lovely little cafes, souvenir shops, and local boutiques, all set against the backdrop of the Eiger. A few spots we love are KALTE LUST for ice cream and Swiss Chocolate Chalet for incredible chocolate!

Honestly, there isn’t really a wrong choice here. Just go with what feels right and enjoy! 

Afternoon – Optional extra: Take the plunge on a canyon swing

If you’re craving even more adventure, this canyon swing experience is one of the most thrilling things you can do in Grindelwald. We recommend booking the 4:15 pm slot if it’s available, as it fits perfectly into this itinerary!

One of the best things about this activity is that it’s located inside Glacier Canyon, so you can easily combine the two. After spending some time exploring the gorge, just head up to the platform, and your guide will walk you through a quick safety briefing before it’s time to take the leap.

Trust us, this one is not for the faint of heart! But if you can work up the courage to take that first step, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable rush and a completely unique perspective of the canyon below. 

I’d also like to add that the guides are incredibly professional and take plenty of time to explain exactly what will happen before you jump. You don’t even need to have any prior jumping or skydiving experience, and all safety equipment is provided. Once you’ve completed the swing, you’ll even get a complimentary drink to celebrate your achievement. 

This is definitely not your average sightseeing activity, and in our opinion, it’s a must-do if you love a good adrenaline rush! 

Dinner – BaseCamp Restaurant

After a full day of mountain adventures, it’s time to treat yourself to a fantastic dinner at BaseCamp Restaurant. Open daily from 11:30 am to 10 pm, this cozy yet stylish restaurant is located just a short walk from Grindelwald Station and is one of our favorite dinner spots in the village.

The real star of the show here is the terrace. If the weather is nice, we highly recommend requesting a table outside, where you’ll be treated to incredible views of the Eiger North Face and the surrounding mountains. 

The menu focuses on high-quality local Alpine ingredients with international influences, and it absolutely delivers. We went with the restaurant’s signature dish, the secret cut rib-eye steak, as well as the burrata as a starter, and both were absolute perfection! 

It’s important to note here that BaseCamp is one of the most popular restaurants in Grindelwald, so you’ll definitely want to make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re hoping to snag a table on the terrace during the summer months.

Evening – Enjoy a golden hour walk through the village

After a full day of sightseeing and mountain adventures, we recommend keeping things nice and relaxed this evening. 

One of our favorite ways to end the day is with a stroll along Dorfstrasse toward the First gondola station as the village begins to settle down for the night.

Golden hour is especially beautiful in Grindelwald. As the sun drops behind the surrounding peaks, the Eiger catches the last light of the day and glows in soft shades of gold, pink, and orange. Trust us, this is one of the best times to have your camera handy!

If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, stop by QRAFTwerk for a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. This cozy cafe stays open until 9 pm most evenings and is the perfect place to unwind before heading back to your hotel. After all, you’ve got another incredible day in the Alps ahead of you tomorrow! 

Day 2

Morning – Take a half-day trip to Jungfraujoch

You simply can’t visit the Jungfrau region without making the journey to Jungfraujoch, better known as the “Top of Europe”. While it’s certainly possible to visit Jungfraujoch independently, we think this small-group tour is the best way to experience the journey without worrying about the planning. 

The tour begins at 9 am and lasts around five hours, bringing you back to Grindelwald at approximately 2 pm. We recommend grabbing a quick breakfast at your hotel before you set off, so you can head straight to the meeting point without feeling rushed. If your hotel doesn’t offer breakfast, Bistro Grindelwald Terminal is right at the meeting point, though it’s fairly basic.

You’ll meet your guide at the mechanical clock inside Grindelwald Terminal before boarding the impressive Eiger Express gondola. The ride to Eigergletscher station takes just 15 minutes, but the views of the Eiger North Face, surrounding peaks, and valley below are absolutely incredible! 

Once you reach Jungfraujoch, you’ll have time to explore some of its most famous attractions, including the breathtaking Aletsch Glacier and the Ice Palace, a network of tunnels carved directly into the glacier itself. 

This is one of the most popular excursions in the Jungfrau region, so we recommend booking your spot as early as possible if you have a specific date in mind. 

Lunch – Restaurant Pinte Grindelwald

After spending the morning at Jungfraujoch, there’s nothing better than settling in for a hearty Swiss lunch. And for that, we’re sending you to Restaurant Pinte Grindelwald, a cozy local favorite tucked inside Hotel Pinte right on Dorfstrasse.

One of the oldest gathering places in Grindelwald, it still retains plenty of traditional Alpine character with warm wooden interiors and an outdoor terrace with fantastic views of the Eiger. 

The menu itself offers everything you’d ever want from a cozy Alpine hotel. We cannot recommend the truffle cheese fondue enough; it’s rich, indulgent, and absolutely worth ordering! If fondue isn’t your thing, the Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (Zurich-style sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce) is another local favorite!

One thing to keep in mind is that this place is popular with both visitors and locals, so we definitely recommend making a reservation ahead of time. 

Afternoon – Recharge at the Eiger Spa

By now, we think you’ve earned a little downtime. That’s why we’re recommending a relaxing afternoon at the Eiger Spa, located inside the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort right in the heart of Grindelwald.

This is one of the most accessible spa options for non-hotel guests. And if you’re really looking to treat yourself, the Private Spa experience is the way to go. This is an exclusive wellness package that includes a soothing mountain herb bath, a mountain cocoon sauna, and a foot bath treatment, plus drinks and snacks to enjoy throughout your session. 

If you’d rather keep things simple, you can also access the spa’s regular wellness facilities, which include saunas, steam baths, and relaxation areas. Massages are available too if your muscles are in need of some TLC!

The wellness area is open daily from 2 pm until 9 pm, while massages and private spa treatments are available from midday onwards with advance booking. Just note that admission fees apply, so it’s worth checking the latest pricing and availability before your visit.

Dinner – Restaurant Adlerstube

For your final dinner in Grindelwald, we’re sending you to Restaurant Adlerstube, a cozy, rustic restaurant inside the Sunstar Alpine Hotel. It’s located near the First gondola station, so you shouldn’t have to venture too far if you’re staying in the center. 

Menu-wise, you’ll find classic Swiss and European dishes made with fresh local ingredients. The beef tenderloin and entrecôte are standout favorites, while the T-bone steak and steak tartare also receive glowing reviews. And of course, there’s the cheese fondue—this is your last chance if you haven’t indulged in this Swiss classic yet! 

Reservations are strongly recommended here, especially during the peak summer and winter seasons, so be sure to book ahead of time by phone or online so you do not miss out! 

Evening – Toast to your trip

After two unforgettable days in the Alps, we think you’ve earned a celebratory drink before calling it a night! 

If you’d like to end your trip somewhere fun and social, head to Avocado Bar. This laid-back, Australian-owned spot sits right on Grindelwald’s main street, where its terrace looks directly toward the Eiger. It’s one of the town’s most popular places to unwind, with local draft beers, affordable cocktails, a super-friendly atmosphere, and even live music on select evenings. It’s also a great place to strike up conversations with fellow travelers.

For something a little more romantic, make your way to the Seven Spirits Bar at Bergwelt Grindelwald. This cocktail bar was recently named “Hotel Bar of the Year” by Falstaff, and it’s known for its creative drinks and super-talented bartenders who tailor their cocktail recommendations to your preferences. We absolutely love this option for a final night, because it’s just so special!

Whichever spot you go to, you’re certain to find great company and plenty of reasons to start planning your next visit to Grindelwald! 

Where to Stay in Grindelwald

For this itinerary, we recommend staying in Grindelwald’s Village Center. Not only will you be surrounded by incredible mountain views, but you’ll also be within walking distance of the train station, the First gondola, and the village’s best restaurants and shops. It makes getting around the Jungfrau region quick and hassle-free.

To help you choose the perfect place to stay, we’ve picked three of our favorite hotels for every budget.

Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort – $$$

For our first hotel in the Village Center, we cannot recommend Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort enough! This is a super-stylish 4-star resort with spacious, beautifully designed rooms with incredible mountain views.

What we love most about this hotel, though, is the on-site wellness facilities, which include a private spa, a fitness area, and a few relaxing saunas that will definitely come in handy after a day of skiing or hiking! The location also couldn’t be more perfect, as you’re just a 5-minute walk from Grindelwald’s main train station and only steps away from the village’s shops and restaurants. 

In terms of pricing, you can expect rates to start from around €250 per night and climb to €500+ per night, depending on the room type and season. Check availability and book your relaxing stay at Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort here!

Hotel Spinne Grindelwald – $$

For our mid-range pick, we absolutely adore Hotel Spinne Grindelwald. This is a family-run hotel that feels both modern and traditional. 

There are two restaurants on-site: one leans more toward Italian, while the other serves more traditional local dishes. However, the real star of the show here is the heated infinity outdoor pool, which offers stunning, unobstructed views of the Eiger. 

Like other central hotels, you’re within walking distance of the main train station, and in terms of pricing, you can expect rooms to fall between €200 and €450+ per night. See the latest room rates and book your stay here!

Hotel Tschuggen – $

For our budget-friendly pick, you really can’t go wrong with Hotel Tschuggen. This hotel has such a warm, welcoming atmosphere and offers some seriously cozy rooms just a 5-minute walk from Grindelwald’s main train station. 

It’s also worth noting that every guest of the hotel receives a 50% discount on admission to Grindelwald’s sports center, where you’ll have access to the indoor swimming pool and ice rink, which is honestly such a great perk! 

Price-wise, you can expect rates starting at around €160 per night, depending on the room type and season. Browse current prices and secure your stay here!

Want more options? Check out all the hotels listed for Grindelwald here!

Thanks for reading!

There’s a reason Grindelwald is one of the most famous destinations in the Swiss Alps. Between the dramatic mountain scenery, world-class hiking, and endless opportunities for adventure, it’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve gone home.

We hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your visit! And if you’re exploring more of Switzerland, be sure to check out our other Switzerland travel guides for plenty more tips, itineraries, and must-do experiences. We’ve also linked some of our most popular guides below for even more inspiration!

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