How to get there

Journey to Lauterbrunnen: A Seamless Travel Guide from North America

Updated Apr 25, 2025

Fly to Zurich or Geneva, then take trains to Lauterbrunnen via Interlaken. The journey showcases Switzerland's efficient transport and scenic beauty.

Journey to Lauterbrunnen: A Seamless Travel Guide from North America

Overview

Ease of getting there

Reaching Lauterbrunnen from North America involves a multi-step journey. First, fly to a major Swiss airport like Zurich or Geneva. From there, hop on Switzerland's efficient train network. Take a train to Interlaken, then switch to a local train bound for Lauterbrunnen. The entire rail journey from Zurich takes about 3 hours, offering stunning views of the Swiss countryside. For a smoother trip, book flights and train tickets in advance. Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited train travel. Once in Lauterbrunnen, the compact village is easily explored on foot. The journey may seem complex, but Switzerland's punctual transportation system makes it surprisingly straightforward.

Customs and immigration

Switzerland uses an automated border control system for faster processing. US and Canadian passport holders typically don't need a visa for stays under 90 days. The process is usually quick, taking about 15-30 minutes. Have your passport and any required documents ready. Be prepared to state your purpose of visit and show proof of onward travel if asked.

Flights from the US / Canada

Major US and Canadian cities like New York, Chicago, Toronto, and Vancouver offer direct flights to Zurich and Geneva. Swiss International Air Lines, United, Air Canada, and SWISS typically operate these routes. Flights are usually daily, with increased frequency during peak tourist seasons.

From airport to city center

From Zurich or Geneva airports, take a train to Interlaken. At Interlaken, switch to a local train for Lauterbrunnen. The entire journey takes about 3 hours from Zurich or 3.5 hours from Geneva. Trains are frequent and reliable. Purchase tickets at the airport or book in advance online through the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) website.