Hi,
Looking for itinerary options for 4 nights in Switzerland.
Current option - Thinking of doing 2 nights in Zermatt to see Matterhorn and 2 nights in Interlaken.
a. Should I do Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen from Interlaken? Can I do both?
b. Cnsidering Im doing Matterhorn - Will the experiences be too similar?
c. Im taking a 4 day Swiss Pass - I don't mind taking a short trip to the nearby villlages. Which options do I have?
Should I do Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen from Interlaken? Can I do
both?
Yes, you can definitely do both. They’re close enough that it’s feasible to visit each in a day if you're based in Interlaken. To check train routes and schedules, use SBB.ch or download the SBB app.
Just keep in mind that there’s a lot to see in this region, and two days is quite short. That said, even after living in the Berner Oberland for many years, I still haven’t seen everything on my list. It’s all stunning—you really can’t go wrong.
Considering I’m doing Matterhorn—will the experiences be too similar?
Not at all. While both regions have mountains, the overall feel, scenery, and experiences are quite different. Zermatt (Matterhorn) has a very distinct vibe compared to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, so you’ll be getting a good variety.
I’m taking a 4-day Swiss Pass—I don't mind taking a short trip to
nearby villages. What options do I have?
With limited time, you may not be able to add much more, but a few nearby spots are definitely worth considering. From Lauterbrunnen, you can take easy trips up to Wengen or Mürren. Brienz is another nice option, and a boat ride on Lake Brienz can be a lovely, especially with a stop at Giessbach Falls. What’s realistic will also depend on the time of year you're visiting and how packed your days already are. You can also make choices depending on the weather - mountains on clear days, lake and waterfall when it is rainy and/or the mountains are not visible.
2 nights each in Zermatt and the Berner Oberland (you may decide to stay in the mountains, at least Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald rather than the transportation centre of Interlaken which is not in the mountains) that gives you one full day in each and transportation for hours between.
While they are different, the Matterhorn is a very shy mountain and you may see it or not in only one day.
If it were me I would put all my short time in one or the other, and as you see from just above, the Berner Oberland has lots of different things and easy weather choices.
But your vacation - your money - your choice
It will be very very different to your Dolomites segment.
Brienz is another nice option, and a boat ride on Lake Brienz can be a lovely, especially with a stop at Giessbach Falls.
I definitely second this idea. If time allows, you could take the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn to the mountain top for more beautiful scenery. It's right near the boat dock and train station.
With 4 nights split between two areas, time is tight. I agree with Nigel, you will actually enjoy your experience more if you stay in the Berner Oberland for all days. There is more than enough to do.
When are you going? In summer, the weather is nicer but the lines for cable cars and other forms of transit will be longer. In spring or fall, the chance of rain is slightly higher, but the crowd is much thinner.
Thanks for all the tips and recos!
I missed mentioning that I'm travelling this October
