Posted by The Bernese Oberland in Switzerland is one of the most beautiful mountain regions in the world. Its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, turquoise lakes, waterfalls and easy access to mountain transport make it a magnet for first-time visitors. But if you are planning your first trip to the region, one of the most important decisions you’ll make before booking flights or hotels is this: Where should I stay?
This guide compares the three most popular bases for visitors in the Bernese Oberland:
Each of these has its strengths and appeals to different travel styles. We’ll break down what each base offers, who it is best for, and practical tips to help you decide where to stay on your first Bernese Oberland trip.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Interlaken | Grindelwald | Lauterbrunnen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for first-timers | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Scenic mountain views | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Access to hikes | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Quiet/small village feel | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Easy transport links | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Family-friendly | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Best for budget travelers | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
⭐ = one star (lower emphasis), ⭐⭐⭐ = highest emphasis within topic
Interlaken: Best All-Around Base
Interlaken is the most popular base for first-time travelers to the Bernese Oberland — and for good reason.
Where It Is
Interlaken sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz at the entrance to the Bernese Oberland valley system. Its location makes it a perfect hub for exploring nearby regions in all directions.
Why First-Timers Like It
- Excellent transport connections: Interlaken Ost has fast train links to major Swiss cities and regional connections to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald and beyond.
- Easy access to tours: Day trips — from boat cruises on the lakes to guided hikes in the Alps — often start in Interlaken.
- Lots of accommodation options: You’ll find everything from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury stays.
- Good for families: Shops, cafes and gentle walking paths make it comfortable for travelers with kids.
What to Expect
Interlaken has more of a “market town” atmosphere than the other two bases. It’s not a mountain village per se — instead, it is a small town that serves as a gateway to the mountains.
This can be a good thing if you want:
- Easy access to trains and buses
- A base for multi-day trips
- More restaurant and nightlife options
It is worth noting that the views of surrounding peaks from town are not as dramatic as in the mountain villages, but they are still beautiful, and boat excursions or short hikes can quickly bring you closer to the scenery.
Grindelwald: Mountain Views and Outdoor Focus
Grindelwald is a classic Alpine village — quieter than Interlaken, a bit larger than Lauterbrunnen, and extremely scenic.
What Makes Grindelwald Special
- Mountains right at your doorstep: The north faces of the Eiger and other peaks rise steeply above the town.
- Excellent hiking access: Trails of all difficulty levels start near town or at nearby mountain stations like First Mountain.
- Great for adventure activities: First Cliff Walk, mountain biking and via ferrata routes are local highlights.
Why It Works for First-Time Visitors
Grindelwald balances accessibility with scenery. It’s perfect if you want:
- A strong “Alpine village” feel
- Views from your hotel or balcony
- Plenty of outdoor activities without driving
- Good base for scenic day hikes
Best Time of Year
Grindelwald is fantastic all year. In summer, hiking and lake trips are popular. In winter, the village becomes a gateway to the ski region and winter hiking trails.
Lauterbrunnen: Valley Drama and Village Atmosphere
Lauterbrunnen is arguably the most iconic setting of all three bases. Nestled in a dramatic U-shaped valley with towering cliffs and waterfalls, it feels like “Alpine Switzerland” in a postcard.
What You’ll Love
- Waterfalls: You can walk to Staubbach Falls or take the bus to Trümmelbach Falls.
- Car-free villages nearby: Take the mountain railway up to Wengen or cable car combinations up to Mürren.
- Quiet and scenic: The valley floor is green and peaceful, without busy roads.
Who It’s Best For
Lauterbrunnen is ideal if you want:
- A standout scenic base
- Access to dramatic waterfalls and valley walks
- Easy connections to mountain villages
- A quieter Alpine experience
Transport links are good, but not as frequent as Interlaken. For restaurants and nightlife, options are more limited — but the location truly delivers on “Swiss mountains” vibes.
Practical Comparison for First-Time Visitors
Ease of Transport
- Interlaken: Best (easy train connections, buses and tour departures)
- Grindelwald: Very good (regional trains, mountain cabins)
- Lauterbrunnen: Good (trains into the valley, buses to trailheads)
Scenery
- Interlaken: Moderate mountain views, lakeside charm
- Grindelwald: Outstanding mountain scenery
- Lauterbrunnen: Dramatic valley walls and waterfalls
Family Friendliness
- Interlaken: Excellent (easy walks, boat trips, town comforts)
- Grindelwald: Excellent (activities for kids and teens)
- Lauterbrunnen: Very good (nature walks, quieter pace)
Best for Adventure Travelers
- Grindelwald (most options right from town)
- Lauterbrunnen (valley hikes, base for mountain villages)
- Interlaken (good hub for excursions)
How to Choose Based on Trip Style
Here are simple recommendations based on what type of trip you want:
- If you want convenience and options: Interlaken
- If you want classic mountain village and hiking: Grindelwald
- If you want dramatic scenery and quiet valleys: Lauterbrunnen
All three bases connect easily with trains and mountain transport, making multi-day explorations simple. You can even base yourself in Interlaken and do day trips to both Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen in the same trip.
Sample 3-Day Itineraries
Interlaken Base – Best for Variety
- Day 1: Walk lakes, take Harderbahn viewpoint trip
- Day 2: Day trip to Jungfraujoch (full-day excursion)
- Day 3: Grindelwald + First Mountain day trip
Grindelwald Base – Best for Mountain Immersion
- Day 1: Explore First Mountain and easy hikes
- Day 2: Kleine Scheidegg valley hike
- Day 3: Day trip to Lauterbrunnen valley waterfalls
Lauterbrunnen Base – Best for Waterfalls & Villages
- Day 1: Walk to Staubbach Falls + valley views
- Day 2: Ride to Wengen + village exploration
- Day 3: Mürren + Schilthorn or cable car day
Final Recommendation
All three bases — Interlaken, Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen — are excellent choices for first-time visitors. Your best base depends on what you value most:
- Interlaken = best for convenience, transport and variety
- Grindelwald = best for dramatic Alpine views and outdoor activities
- Lauterbrunnen = best for waterfalls, quiet valleys and classic Swiss scenery
If this is your first trip to Switzerland, many travelers choose Interlaken as their home base and do day trips to both Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. That gives you the best of all worlds without changing hotels.