10 Best Things to Do in Grindelwald With Kids

Looking for the best things to do in Grindelwald with kids? This post is a great place to start.

We spent four days in this stunning village, surrounded by charming chalets, incredible mountain scenery, breathtaking gondola rides, and delicious Swiss cuisine.

Grindelwald is nestled in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, surrounded by the iconic Eiger and beautiful mountain landscapes.

Grindelwald is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. We made several day trips during our stay, so be sure to check out our guide to the best day trips from Grindelwald.

In this post, I share the best things to do in Grindelwald with kids, along with tips and recommendations for your trip.

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Is Grindelwald Good for Kids?

Grindelwald is one of those places that’s perfect for our family. The village feels calm, safe, and easy to get around, which makes traveling with kids incredibly stress-free.

One of the things I loved most is how easy it is to enjoy the mountains without being an experienced hiker. Many of the beautiful spots are reachable by gondola or cable car, so you can enjoy those incredible views without having to walk uphill with little ones.

The village itself is compact and easy to walk around, with cafés, restrooms, and places to stop for a break. We found it really easy to take things slow, grab a snack, and enjoy the day without feeling rushed.

Whether you visit in summer for hiking and mountain adventures or in winter for skiing and snow fun, kids will have plenty to enjoy, too. Honestly, Grindelwald is a great choice if you want a beautiful mountain getaway that doesn’t feel too complicated with kids.

What is Grindelwald, Switzerland, Known For?

Grindelwald is a beautiful mountain village in the Jungfrau region of the Bernese Oberland, known for its incredible scenery, hiking trails, and winter sports.

It’s also a popular base for exploring some of Switzerland’s most famous mountain attractions, including Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) and Schilthorn.

Best Things to Do in Grindelwald With Kids

Visit First Mountain

Visiting First is easily one of the best things to do in Grindelwald with kids. The gondola ride up is an experience in itself, with incredible mountain views the whole way.

Once you get to the top, there’s plenty to do. You can take an easy walk, enjoy the viewpoints, or try more adventurous activities. We loved that there are options for different ages and comfort levels, so you can make the day as relaxed or adventurous as you want.

You can purchase your gondola tickets online or at the station. Tip: Ride the gondola all the way to the top—you won’t want to miss the views!

Walk the First Cliff Walk

The First Cliff Walk is one of the most popular things to do at First and an easy stop when you’re visiting with kids. It’s just steps from the gondola station, so you don’t have to walk far.

Plan about 20–30 minutes for the walk. It’s a metal walkway along the side of the mountain, with incredible views of the valley below. Take your time, stop for photos, and enjoy the views along the way.

The First Cliff Walk is open year-round, although a clear day will give you the best views. You don’t need an additional ticket once you have your gondola ticket.

Good to know: The walkway is fenced, but if your kids are afraid of heights, they may find parts of it a little intimidating.

Best for: School-age kids and up.

Hike the Bachalpsee Lake 

Bachalpsee Lake is at the very top of my list of places to visit in Grindelwald with kids. It’s often described as an “easy” 50-minute hike each way, but honestly, that timing feels a little optimistic when you’re hiking with kids. However, I would absolutely include it in your itinerary.

The trail is wide, well-marked, and easy to follow, but it’s definitely not completely flat. We hiked with a child, and it took patience and plenty of breaks.

The scenery is absolutely stunning. You’ll walk through beautiful mountain scenery, see cows grazing along the trail, and come across plenty of spots where you’ll want to stop and take photos. We found it took closer to 65–75 minutes each way, but it was worth every extra minute.

I wouldn’t recommend this trail with a lightweight stroller. If you’re bringing one, you’ll want something sturdy with large wheels. Once you reach the lake, though, there’s plenty of space to relax and enjoy the scenery, even when it’s busy.

The views at Bachalpsee Lake are breathtaking and honestly hard to put into words. We loved it so much that we completely lost track of time and accidentally missed our toddler’s nap. He eventually fell asleep in our arms on the walk back (which he never does), and carrying him downhill was… not ideal. But it was still worth it!

Best for:  Kids who enjoy walking, especially school-age children
Not ideal for: Lightweight strollers. A Baby carry-on is recommended for a hands-free hike for small toddlers.

Other Activities on the First Mountain

If you have extra time or kids who love a little adventure, you can add several activities to your visit to First.

• First Glider: A thrilling ride that feels a bit like flying. It’s 800 meters long and reaches speeds of up to 83 km/h, so it’s definitely one for the adventure lovers.
• First Flyer: Similar to the First Glider, but without the bird design. It’s fast, fun, and offers incredible mountain views.
• First Mountain Cart: A three-wheeled cart that you ride downhill along a specially designed track. It’s fun and exciting without feeling too extreme and is a popular choice for families with older kids.
• First Mountain Restaurant: A great place to stop for food or drinks and take in the panoramic mountain views.

Visit Jungfraujoch

A trip to Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe, is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have while staying in Grindelwald.

At 3,454 meters (11,332 feet), Jungfraujoch is home to Europe’s highest railway station. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you have the budget, I think it’s worth it. The views and the experience are something you’ll remember long after the trip.

If you want to know what the journey is like and how to plan your visit, check out our day trip to Jungfraujoch guide.

Tips for visiting Jungfraujoch

• Check the weather before booking. A clear day makes a huge difference for the views.
• Dress in layers. Even in summer, it can be very cold at the top.
• Give yourself plenty of time. There’s more to see and do than just the train ride and the views.

Once you reach the top, you’ll find restaurants, shops, snow activities, and plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces to explore. It’s an experience both kids and adults will remember.

Jungfraujoch Activities

Here are some of the highlights you can check out while you’re there:

• Mönchsjoch Hut: If conditions are good and you’re up for a hike, you can walk to Mönchsjoch Hut. Even if you skip the hike, step outside to enjoy the snow and mountain views.
• Alpine Sensation: An indoor walkway with music, displays, and icy surroundings.
• Ice Palace: Walk through ice tunnels and see ice sculptures carved into the glacier.
• Sphinx Observatory: Head out to the viewing deck for incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Snow Fun Park: A fun option for snow activities, including during the summer months when available.

Walk Through Gletscherschlucht

Gletscherschlucht is another great place to visit in Grindelwald and an easy addition to your itinerary. Unlike First or Jungfraujoch, you don’t need to spend half a day here. It’s a shorter experience, but still really impressive.

The canyon is close to the village center and can be reached by walking, driving, or taking the bus. The walk takes you through the canyon along a curved walkway, with towering rock walls on both sides and the rushing river below.

One highlight, especially for kids, is the suspended “spider web” net. You can walk or bounce on the net several meters above the Lütschine River. It’s definitely a fun experience and something a little different from the usual mountain views.

Explore Grindelwald Village 

With so many things to do in Grindelwald, it’s easy to overlook the village itself—but spending some time here is definitely worth it. Grindelwald is incredibly charming, with postcard-perfect streets and beautiful mountain views in every direction.

The village has plenty of restaurants, cafés, and small shops, so it’s a nice place to slow down between activities. We especially loved taking relaxed evening walks through the cozy streets and stopping for hot cocoa. It was the perfect way to end a busy day of sightseeing.

Take a Gondola Ride 

If you don’t have time for a half-day or full-day mountain excursion, taking a gondola ride in Grindelwald is still a great way to enjoy the scenery. It’s easy, relaxing, and especially nice when you’re traveling with kids.

Even a short ride offers incredible mountain views and a chance to experience the Swiss Alps with little planning or effort.

Go Hiking Near Grindelwald

One of the things that makes Grindelwald so special is that it has snowy mountain peaks, green valleys, and a charming village all in one place. Hiking is a big part of the experience, and trails suit different ages and fitness levels.

• Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg: An easy, mostly downhill hike with beautiful alpine views. A great option for families.
• Eiger Trail: A scenic trail with incredible views of the Eiger and surrounding mountains. Best for families with older kids who are comfortable hiking.
• First to Bachalpsee Lake: One of the area’s most popular hikes and well worth doing if your kids enjoy walking. I talk more about this hike above.
• First to Schynige Platte: A much longer and more challenging hike that takes around 6 hours. I’d recommend this one for experienced hikers and older teens rather than younger children.

Take Day Trips From Grindelwald

Grindelwald is an excellent base for exploring some of Switzerland’s most beautiful places. With convenient train and cable car connections, you can easily visit several nearby destinations.

Some of the most popular day trips from Grindelwald include:

• Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe): Incredible glacier and mountain views.
• Lake Brienz: Turquoise water, boat cruises, and beautiful lakeside scenery.
• Schilthorn: A mountain excursion with incredible panoramic views.
• Interlaken: A lively town with plenty of outdoor activities and restaurants.
• Lauterbrunnen: A beautiful valley famous for its waterfalls and mountain scenery.
• Wengen and Mürren: Two charming, car-free mountain villages with spectacular views.
• Bern: Switzerland’s capital, perfect for exploring the historic Old Town.

For more details, including what to do and how to get there, check out my complete guide to the best day trips from Grindelwald.

Best Time to Visit Grindelwald With Kids

You can visit Grindelwald in any season, but I think spring and summer are best if you’re traveling with kids and want to enjoy hiking, mountain views, and outdoor activities.

July and August are the busiest months, so expect more crowds and higher prices. If you want a quieter trip, consider visiting in June or September when the weather can still be great, and there are usually fewer people.

If you’re visiting in winter for snow, skiing, or other winter activities, Grindelwald is beautiful then too.

Where to stay in Grindelwald With Kids?

You can easily find accommodations in Grindelwald, Switzerland, in a traditional chalet or a Boutique hotel.

We wanted to stay at a boutique hotel, a quiet place overlooking Grindelwald Village, and a family-friendly Hotel. Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald was a perfect combination of both. It offered a range of services and activities for adults and kids. If we are back in Grindelwald in the future, we would certainly consider staying here again, with or without the kids.

You can learn more about the hotel by reading my ultimate Belvedere Grindelwald Hotel Review.

How many days do you need in Grindelwald?

I’d recommend spending at least three days in Grindelwald to really enjoy the area without feeling rushed. This gives you enough time for bigger experiences like Jungfraujoch and the Bachalpsee Lake hike, while still leaving time to enjoy the village.

We spent five days in Grindelwald and used it as a base for several day trips, and honestly, it worked out perfectly. If you want to explore more of the surrounding area, I’d definitely recommend staying a little longer.

How to get to Grindelwald?

You can easily get to Grindelwald by train or car. The nearest major international airport is Zurich Airport, about 2.5–3 hours away by train, depending on your connections.

Taking the train is one of the easiest ways to get to Grindelwald, especially if you’re traveling with kids. The journey is scenic, and you won’t have to worry about parking once you arrive.

If you’re renting a car, driving is also an option, but keep in mind that parking in Grindelwald can be limited and expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Grindelwald

Is Grindelwald good for kids?

Yes, Grindelwald is a great destination for families. The village is safe, walkable, and well-organized, with gondolas, easy hikes, and plenty of outdoor space. Many of the top attractions are accessible without long or difficult walks, which makes visiting with kids much easier.

Is Grindelwald stroller-friendly?

Grindelwald is stroller-friendly by alpine standards, especially around the village center and main walking paths. Some hikes and mountain trails (like Bachalpsee) suit sturdy strollers with larger wheels, while others are best done with kids walking or in a carrier.

Is Jungfraujoch worth it with kids?

Yes, visiting Jungfraujoch can be a memorable experience for kids, especially school-age children. The train ride, snow activities, Ice Palace, and panoramic views make it feel exciting and unique. Just dress warmly and choose a clear-weather day.

How many days should you spend in Grindelwald?

Plan to spend at least three days in Grindelwald. This allows time to visit major highlights like First Mountain and Jungfraujoch. If you plan day trips to nearby destinations, staying 4 to 5 days works well.

What is the best time to visit Grindelwald with kids?

Summer (June–September) is ideal for hiking, gondola rides, and outdoor activities. Winter is great for snow play and skiing. Late spring and early fall can be quieter, but may have limited access to some mountain attractions depending on the weather.

Final Thoughts on Best Things to Do in Grindelwald With Kids

Grindelwald really is one of those places that lives up to the hype. The mountain views, gondola rides, charming village, and all the fun things to do make it such a special place to visit.

We spent five days here and loved having Grindelwald as our base. From hiking to Bachalpsee and riding the gondolas to exploring the village and taking day trips, we never ran out of things to do.

If you’re planning a family trip to Switzerland, I definitely recommend adding Grindelwald to your itinerary. It’s beautiful, easy to explore, and a place the whole family can enjoy.

Don’t forget to check out my other Switzerland posts below for more tips and inspiration!

• Best day trips from Grindelwald
• Staying in Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald (Review)
• How to spend a day in Lucerne
• A day trip to Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe)

If you are ready to plan further, download my Simple Travel Planning Template, the exact one I use to plan all our family trips.