The Bernese Oberland is a landscape straight out of a dream—towering Alps, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages that feel untouched by time. From the iconic Jungfrau to the serene beauty of Lake Thun, this Swiss region is pure magic for anyone craving adventure and tranquility. Having hiked these trails and soaked in the views, I can tell you this: the Bernese Oberland is a place that just stays with you. Let’s dive into the top 12 must-see attractions that will make your Bernese Oberland visit special!
Top Things to Do in the Bernese, Oberland
Exploring the Bernese Oberland? Hike the breathtaking trails of Lauterbrunnen Valley, ski the legendary slopes of Grindelwald, or soar above alpine peaks while paragliding in Interlaken. For a more relaxed experience, take the Jungfraujoch Railway to the Top of Europe, cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Thun, or wander through the charming streets of Spiez. Whether you’re here for adventure or scenic escapes, this stunning Swiss region offers an unforgettable alpine experience.
1. Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” is one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking attractions. It offers sweeping views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. Getting there is part of the adventure—the Jungfrau Railway, Europe’s highest train, tunnels through the Eiger and Mönch mountains, leading to the summit station. Once at the top, the Sphinx Observatory provides panoramic vistas, and the Ice Palace showcases ice sculptures inside a frozen cavern. The thin air takes some getting used to, but stepping out onto the snow-covered plateau is an unforgettable moment.
Beyond sightseeing, there’s plenty to do. The Snow Fun Park lets you sled, ski, or even zip-line at the summit. If you’re hungry, Restaurant Bollywood serves Indian cuisine with a view of the peaks. I grabbed a Swiss hot chocolate at Café 3,570, and it tasted even better with the crisp mountain air. Whether you’re snapping photos, walking through the tunnels, or just soaking in the views, Jungfraujoch is an Alpine experience you won’t forget.
2. Lake Thun
Lake Thun is a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and charming villages. Its turquoise waters are perfect for boat cruises, with stops at Spiez, Oberhofen, and Thun, each featuring lakeside castles and scenic promenades. The Thun Castle offers panoramic views, while Oberhofen Castle sits right on the water with beautifully landscaped gardens. The lake is also popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
For a more relaxed experience, hiking trails around the lake provide stunning viewpoints. I took a short hike up to Harder Kulm, and the view over the lake was worth every step. As the sun sets, lakeside restaurants serve fresh fish and Swiss specialties with breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, Lake Thun is a must-visit in the Bernese Oberland.
3. Lauterbrunnen Valley
Lauterbrunnen Valley is a storybook landscape, with 72 waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and lush meadows. Staubbach Falls, one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in Europe, is visible right from the village. A short walk or cable car ride leads to Trümmelbach Falls, a series of powerful waterfalls hidden inside a mountain. The valley also serves as a gateway to the car-free villages of Wengen and Mürren, both offering incredible alpine views.
For adventure seekers, Lauterbrunnen is a hotspot for paragliding, hiking, and mountain biking. The scenic Schilthorn cable car offers views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, while easy trails lead to panoramic picnic spots. I spent an afternoon just wandering the valley, and every turn revealed another postcard-perfect scene. Whether you’re after a peaceful escape or thrilling outdoor activities, Lauterbrunnen is pure Swiss beauty.
4. Grindelwald
Grindelwald is a charming mountain village that offers year-round adventure. In winter, its ski slopes attract skiers of all levels, while summer brings hiking, rock climbing, and scenic gondola rides. The First Cliff Walk is a must-visit, featuring a suspension walkway along the mountainside with incredible views. For a more laid-back experience, the gondola to First Mountain leads to alpine meadows, hiking trails, and a mountain cart track. The Eiger Express cable car also provides a fast and scenic route to the Jungfraujoch.
Beyond outdoor activities, Grindelwald has cozy cafés, Swiss bakeries, and scenic picnic spots. I grabbed a snack from a local bakery and enjoyed it with a view of the Eiger North Face towering above. The mix of thrill and tranquility makes this village a perfect destination, whether you’re here for an action-packed trip or a relaxing getaway.
5. Schynige Platte
Schynige Platte is a scenic mountain ridge known for its vintage cogwheel train, which takes visitors on a breathtaking ride through alpine meadows and forests. The journey alone is worth it, offering stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Once at the top, the Alpine Garden showcases over 650 species of mountain plants, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Hiking trails of varying difficulty lead to spectacular viewpoints, with the Panorama Trail being a favorite for its sweeping vistas.
This area is perfect for those who want a mix of adventure and tranquility. I spent the afternoon following an easy trail and found a quiet bench overlooking Lake Thun and Lake Brienz—a view I could have stared at for hours. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Schynige Platte is a must-visit.
6. Mürren
Mürren is a car-free alpine village perched high above Lauterbrunnen Valley, accessible only by cable car or cogwheel train. This peaceful retreat offers some of the best views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau without the crowds. Visitors can explore charming wooden chalets, scenic hiking trails, and cozy mountain inns. The Schilthorn cable car takes you to the Piz Gloria summit, famous for its James Bond 007 connection, where a revolving restaurant offers panoramic views.
Mürren is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. In winter, it’s a ski haven, while summer brings opportunities for hiking, paragliding, and the thrilling Thrill Walk, a glass-bottomed walkway along the cliffs. I stopped for a coffee at a mountainside café, and the view alone made it one of the most memorable moments of my trip. If you’re looking for peace, scenery, and adventure, Mürren has it all.
7. Oeschinensee
Oeschinensee is a glacial lake near Kandersteg that feels straight out of a postcard. A gondola ride from the village brings you close to the lake, followed by a short scenic hike. The lake’s turquoise waters, framed by rugged cliffs and alpine forests, make it a paradise for hiking, swimming, and rowboating. In winter, it transforms into a frozen wonderland perfect for ice skating and sledding.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Oeschinensee. I rented a rowboat and paddled across the crystal-clear water, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. For those who love hiking, trails around the lake lead to panoramic viewpoints. After a day of exploring, the nearby Berghotel Oeschinensee serves hearty Swiss dishes with unbeatable mountain views. Whether you’re here to relax or adventure, this hidden gem is worth the trip.
8. Ballenberg Open-Air Museum
Ballenberg Open-Air Museum is a living history exhibit that transports visitors back in time to experience traditional Swiss life. Set on 163 acres, it features over 100 historic buildings, from farmhouses to workshops, relocated from different Swiss regions. Artisans demonstrate cheese-making, woodworking, and textile weaving, giving a hands-on look at how people lived centuries ago. The farm area, complete with cows, goats, and horses, is a favorite for families.
Walking through Ballenberg feels like stepping into a different era. I watched a baker make traditional Swiss bread in a wood-fired oven, and the smell alone was worth the visit. The museum offers interactive workshops where visitors can try their hand at old crafts. Whether you’re a history lover or just curious about Swiss culture, Ballenberg is a fascinating place to explore.
9. Harder Kulm
Harder Kulm is Interlaken’s best viewpoint, offering a panoramic look at Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Jungfrau region. A quick funicular ride takes you from Interlaken to the summit at 1,321 meters, where a castle-like viewing platform provides breathtaking scenery. The highlight is the Two Lakes Bridge, a glass-floored walkway that makes you feel like you’re floating above the landscape.
For hikers, trails leading up or down from Harder Kulm offer a rewarding challenge. I took the funicular up and hiked down, enjoying quiet forest paths and occasional glimpses of the lakes. The restaurant at the top serves Swiss specialties with a view that makes every bite taste better. Whether you’re here for a quick scenic trip or a longer outdoor adventure, Harder Kulm is one of the best spots in the Bernese Oberland.
10. Gimmelwald
Gimmelwald is a tiny, car-free village tucked into the cliffs above Lauterbrunnen Valley. Unlike its more touristy neighbors, this alpine retreat is a place where life moves slowly. Wooden chalets with flower-filled balconies line the quiet paths, and friendly locals sell homemade cheese and dried meats from roadside stalls. The views of the surrounding peaks are spectacular, making it feel like a hidden paradise. The best way to explore is on foot, as every turn offers a new breathtaking view of the valley.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do, from hiking to Sprutz Waterfall to following scenic trails toward Mürren. I stopped at the Mountain Hostel, where travelers swap stories over coffee with the Alps as their backdrop. If you’re looking for authentic Swiss mountain life without the crowds, Gimmelwald is the perfect escape. It’s one of those places you visit once and never forget.
11. Trümmelbach Falls
Trümmelbach Falls is Europe’s largest subterranean waterfall, hidden inside the cliffs of Lauterbrunnen Valley. These glacier-fed falls, carrying meltwater from the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, thunder through twisting rock tunnels. A tunnel lift takes visitors up inside the mountain, where a series of platforms reveal ten powerful cascades, each with its own unique shape and sound. The experience is both thrilling and humbling, as you witness nature’s raw force in action.
The sheer force of the water is incredible—I could feel the spray as I stood near the edge of one of the viewing points. The dim lighting and roaring sound make it a surreal experience. It’s a quick but unforgettable stop that showcases the raw power of nature. I left completely in awe of how the falls have shaped the rock over thousands of years. If you’re in Lauterbrunnen, don’t miss this hidden wonder tucked inside the valley’s cliffs.
12. Wengen
Wengen is a postcard-perfect mountain village, sitting high above Lauterbrunnen Valley. Accessible only by cogwheel train, this car-free retreat is known for its classic Swiss chalets, scenic meadows, and stunning mountain views. It’s a gateway to the Jungfrau region, offering access to incredible hiking trails, ski slopes, and alpine excursions. The Männlichen cable car provides a short but scenic ride to breathtaking viewpoints. Even just wandering through the village feels magical, with its peaceful atmosphere and friendly locals.
I visited in the summer and took a leisurely hike through flower-filled meadows, with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau towering in the distance. In winter, the village transforms into a ski paradise, hosting the famous Lauberhorn downhill race. The combination of adventure and relaxation makes Wengen special. Whether you’re here to explore or just unwind, Wengen is a peaceful, picture-perfect escape in the Bernese Oberland.
