How to Spend a Day in Lauterbrunnen & Mürren, Switzerland
Lauterbrunnen | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Fresh air, Swiss cows, epic views, and cozy mountain cafés—what more could you want?
If you’re planning a trip to the Swiss Alps and looking for an unforgettable mix of jaw-dropping scenery and quiet alpine charm, let me introduce you to Lauterbrunnen and Mürren. These two picture-perfect villages in the Bernese Oberland region feel like they were plucked straight from a postcard (or maybe a Sound of Music daydream).
Lauterbrunnen | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, petting friendly cows, or sipping tea with a view, this alpine escape is one you’ll never forget. Here’s how to spend a magical day exploring Lauterbrunnen and Mürren, Switzerland.
Start in Lauterbrunnen: The Valley of 72 Waterfalls
Lauterbrunnen is one of the most iconic spots in Switzerland—and with good reason. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush green meadows, this valley is home to 72 waterfalls and views that’ll stop you in your tracks.
Staubbach Falls is the showstopper here, plunging nearly 300 meters (984 feet) from a sheer rock face just outside the village. You can walk up to a viewing platform behind the waterfall for a misty, magical experience—don’t forget your camera!
After soaking in the waterfall vibes, take a peaceful walk along the Lütschine River, where you’ll pass flower-filled meadows, traditional wooden chalets, and the soothing sound of cowbells in the distance.
Charming Churches & Classic Swiss Architecture
Lauterbrunnen is also a dream for architecture lovers. The quaint white church with its pointed steeple, set against dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, is one of the most photographed spots in town.
The village is filled with storybook-style Swiss chalets, window boxes overflowing with flowers, and tidy paths perfect for a stroll. Every corner feels like a scene from a fairytale.
Lauterbrunnen | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Say Hello to the Swiss Cows
If there’s one thing that made me audibly squeal with delight—it was meeting the famous Swiss cows. You’ll spot them grazing peacefully in the valley, their bells echoing softly across the mountainside. It’s the kind of scene that makes you want to pause and breathe it all in (and maybe take 47 photos).
Lauterbrunnen | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Journey to Mürren: A Car-Free Village in the Clouds
Ready for more adventure? From Lauterbrunnen, hop on the cable car to Grütschalp, then take the scenic train ride to Mürren—a traffic-free village perched high on a cliff. The views on the way up are absolutely stunning, and Mürren itself feels like a peaceful mountaintop retreat.
This is one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets. There are no cars here, just crisp alpine air, breathtaking scenery, and the cozy hum of village life.
Murren | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Hike Mürren’s Epic Trails (and Meet a Cat?)
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just here for the vibes, Mürren has trails for every level. One favorite is the Northface Trail, which offers panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
My own hike came with a bonus: I met an adorable trail cat who clearly owned the mountains. Alpine magic? Confirmed.
Murren | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Warm Up with Tea, Gelato & Mountain Charm
After your hike, reward yourself with something warm (or sweet!) at Alti Metzg Bistro & Dorfladen. This cozy spot is perfect for a coffee break, tea with a view, or a scoop of homemade gelato while you admire the surrounding peaks. Mürren may be small, but its charm is mighty.
Murren | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Bonus: Watch (or Try!) Paragliding in Mürren
One of the most unique things about Mürren is the paragliding scene. You’ll see adventurous souls gently floating above the valley—and if you’re feeling brave, tandem paragliding is available for first-timers! Even just watching them soar across the sky is a peaceful and inspiring sight.
How to Get to Lauterbrunnen and Mürren
Getting here is easy and scenic (because, Switzerland).
From Interlaken, take a quick 20-minute train to Lauterbrunnen.
From there, take the Grütschalp cable car followed by a short train ride to Mürren.
Both villages are walkable and well-marked, so you can explore at your own pace.
Lauterbrunnen | Photo by Kelly Bowman
Don’t miss this iconic part of Switzerland.
Lauterbrunnen and Mürren are more than just beautiful places—they’re experiences. From the sound of cowbells in the valley to the stillness of a mountain café, these villages invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and fall in love with the Swiss Alps.
Planning a trip? Don’t forget to pack layers, your hiking shoes, and an appetite for fresh air and fondue.
Save this blog post for your Switzerland bucket list!
#SwitzerlandTravel #Lauterbrunnen #Mürren #SwissAlps #SwissViews #StaubbachFalls #ParaglidingSwitzerland #SwissCows #HikingSwitzerland #VisitSwitzerland #AlpineAdventure