Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen

Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen

Updated Apr 25, 2025
Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Overview

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Lauterbrunnen is a breathtaking valley that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. Known as the 'Valley of 72 Waterfalls,' it boasts stunning cascades, including the famous Staubbach Falls. The village itself exudes traditional Swiss charm, with wooden chalets and flower-filled balconies. Beyond the tourist hotspots, explore hidden trails leading to secluded mountain huts, or join locals for a cheese-making workshop. For an authentic experience, visit a family-run alphorn workshop or enjoy a fondue night at a centuries-old inn.

Best time to visit. Visit Lauterbrunnen from June to September for warm weather and outdoor activities. The waterfalls are at their most impressive, and hiking trails are fully accessible. For winter sports and a magical snowy landscape, December to February is ideal. Avoid April and November, as many attractions may be closed.

Month
January34°F - 23°F
30°F - 18°F
Partly Cloudy8:12 am5:02 pm12 days
2.9 in
11 days
23.3 in
7 mph
February37°F - 24°F
33°F - 19°F
Partly Cloudy7:39 am5:47 pm11 days
2.7 in
9 days
18.8 in
7 mph
March45°F - 31°F
41°F - 26°F
Partly Cloudy6:46 am6:32 pm13 days
3.1 in
5 days
9.3 in
7 mph
April52°F - 37°F
49°F - 33°F
Partly Cloudy6:42 am8:17 pm14 days
3.4 in
2 days
2.1 in
7 mph
May60°F - 45°F
58°F - 42°F
Partly Cloudy5:54 am8:58 pm15 days
4.0 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
June66°F - 51°F
65°F - 49°F
Partly Cloudy5:34 am9:24 pm15 days
4.6 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
July70°F - 55°F
70°F - 54°F
Partly Cloudy5:53 am9:16 pm14 days
4.4 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
August69°F - 54°F
69°F - 53°F
Partly Cloudy6:30 am8:36 pm14 days
4.5 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
September63°F - 49°F
62°F - 47°F
Partly Cloudy7:09 am7:38 pm11 days
3.3 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
October54°F - 41°F
52°F - 38°F
Partly Cloudy7:51 am6:37 pm11 days
3.0 in
1 days
0.5 in
4 mph
November42°F - 32°F
39°F - 28°F
Partly Cloudy7:38 am4:52 pm12 days
3.2 in
5 days
7.4 in
4 mph
December35°F - 25°F
31°F - 20°F
Partly Cloudy8:10 am4:40 pm12 days
3.0 in
9 days
18.0 in
4 mph

NameDateDescription

Travel rating

Closure rating

Recommendation
New Year's DayJanuary 1Celebrated nationwide to mark the beginning of the new year with fireworks and festivities.
Avoid travel, most places closed.
Good FridayVaries (March/April)Christian holiday commemorating crucifixion of Jesus. Many businesses close for long weekend.
Limited services, plan accordingly.
Easter MondayVaries (March/April)Public holiday following Easter Sunday. Families gather for meals and egg hunts.
Some closures, but tourist areas open.
Labour DayMay 1Celebration of workers' rights. Parades and demonstrations occur in major cities.
Expect crowds at events, plan ahead.
Ascension DayVaries (May/June)Christian holiday marking Jesus' ascension. Many Swiss take long weekend for short trips.
Popular travel time, book in advance.
Whit MondayVaries (May/June)Christian holiday celebrating descent of Holy Spirit. Often marks start of summer activities.
Busy day, but most attractions open.
Swiss National DayAugust 1Celebration of Swiss Confederation's founding. Fireworks, bonfires, and parades nationwide.
Festive atmosphere, but crowded.
Christmas EveDecember 24Evening celebration of Christmas. Families gather for meals and gift exchanges.
Limited evening services, plan ahead.
Christmas DayDecember 25Christian holiday celebrating birth of Jesus. Nationwide holiday with family gatherings.
Avoid travel, most places closed.
St. Stephen's DayDecember 26Public holiday following Christmas. Extended Christmas celebrations and shopping sales.
Some closures, but sales attract crowds.

NameDateDescription

Travel rating

Closure rating

Recommendation
Lauterbrunnen Valley Folk FestivalMid-JuneLocal festival celebrating Swiss folk music, traditional dances, and regional cuisine
Great time to experience local culture
Swiss National Day CelebrationsAugust 1Fireworks, bonfires, and parades to celebrate Swiss independence in scenic valley
Festive atmosphere, but crowds expected
Jungfrau MarathonEarly SeptemberChallenging mountain marathon from Interlaken to Kleine Scheidegg via Lauterbrunnen
Exciting event, but expect some disruptions
Lauterbrunnen Autumn MarketLate SeptemberLocal artisans and farmers showcase regional products, crafts, and seasonal goods
Great opportunity to explore local products
Winteregg Snowshoe RaceLate JanuaryAnnual snowshoe race through scenic winter landscapes above Lauterbrunnen Valley
Unique winter event with minimal disruption

1
Learn basic Swiss-German phrases like 'Grüezi' (hello) and 'Merci' (thank you). While many Swiss speak English, locals appreciate efforts to use their language.
2
Be punctual. Swiss culture values timeliness, so arrive on time for appointments, tours, and public transportation. Trains and buses run like clockwork in Switzerland.
3
Respect quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 7 AM. Swiss people value peace and quiet, especially in residential areas. Avoid loud conversations or noisy activities during these times.
4
Recycle diligently. Switzerland has strict recycling laws. Familiarize yourself with local recycling practices and use designated bins for different types of waste.
5
Tipping is not expected in Switzerland as service charges are usually included. However, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.
6
Remove your shoes when entering someone's home. It's polite to ask if you should take off your shoes, but many Swiss households have a no-shoes policy indoors.
7
Don't litter. Switzerland prides itself on cleanliness. Always dispose of trash properly and keep public spaces tidy. Fines for littering can be hefty.
8
Respect Sunday as a quiet day. Many shops and attractions are closed on Sundays. Plan accordingly and be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.