Travelling from Interlaken to Grindelwald by train is one of the easiest and most scenic journeys in Switzerland.
The route connects Interlaken, one of the main gateways to the Jungfrau Region, with the mountain village of Grindelwald in just over half an hour.
I took this journey during my trip to Switzerland whilst staying in Interlaken and visiting Grindelwald for the day.
If you're still planning your route, my Switzerland Travel Guide brings together all of my itineraries, train guides and destination advice in one place.
If you're planning the same trip, here's everything you need to know about tickets, prices, journey times and what to expect.
Yes.
The R61 train runs directly between Interlaken Ost and Grindelwald without the need to change trains.
Services typically operate every 30 minutes throughout the day, making it one of the easiest day trips in the Jungfrau Region.
For most visitors, Interlaken Ost is the station you'll need.
Don't confuse this with Interlaken West, which is the town's other railway station.
The journey takes approximately 36 minutes.
Despite being relatively short, it's a scenic journey as the train leaves Interlaken and gradually climbs into the mountains towards Grindelwald.
I found the journey passed quickly and there was never really a need to consider First Class for such a short trip. If you're still deciding whether Grindelwald deserves a place on your itinerary, read my guide on whether Grindelwald is worth visiting
The typical stops are:
One thing that's worth knowing is that many visitors are tempted to get off at Grindelwald Terminal.
Unless you're specifically heading for the Eiger Express gondola or terminal facilities, stay on the train.
For the village centre, shops, restaurants and main station area, you should get off at Grindelwald station.
At the time of writing:
Personally, I don't think First Class is worth paying nearly double for on a journey that only takes around 36 minutes.
Second Class was perfectly comfortable and the journey is over before you know it.
Yes.
The following passes are accepted:
If you're already using a Swiss Travel Pass, you can simply board the train without purchasing an additional ticket.
You can buy tickets:
For the return journey, I found the SBB app particularly useful.
You can also purchase tickets from the machines at Grindelwald station before travelling back to Interlaken.
If you miss the final train, there is normally a bus alternative approximately an hour later.
As timetables can change, I'd always recommend checking the SBB app before travelling.
You can also purchase tickets from the machines at Grindelwald station before travelling back to Interlaken.
Yes.
While it isn't as famous as routes such as the Bernina Express or Glacier Express, the scenery is still beautiful.
As the train leaves Interlaken, you'll pass through traditional Swiss villages, forests and mountain scenery before arriving in Grindelwald beneath the imposing Eiger.
For many visitors, this journey is their first glimpse of the dramatic landscapes that make the Jungfrau Region so popular.
While it isn't as famous as the Bernina Express or GoldenPass routes, it's still one of the most scenic regional train journeys in Switzerland.
Absolutely.
I visited Grindelwald as a day trip from Interlaken and found it completely different in atmosphere.
While Interlaken feels like a practical base for exploring the region, Grindelwald feels much more alpine and surrounded by mountains.
If you're planning a day there, I've also put together a detailed One Day in Grindelwald Itinerary covering exactly how I'd spend my time.
If scenery is your priority, I'd choose Grindelwald over Interlaken every time.
The train from Interlaken to Grindelwald is quick, simple and one of the easiest journeys you'll make in Switzerland.
With direct services every 30 minutes, reasonable fares and stunning scenery along the way, it's an ideal day trip whether you're staying in Interlaken or exploring the wider Jungfrau Region.
Many visitors combine this journey with nearby Lauterbrunnen so it's also worth reading my guide to travelling from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen by train when planning your itinerary.
If you're debating whether to pay extra for First Class, I'd save the money and stick with Second Class.
For a journey of just 36 minutes, I didn't think the upgrade would be worth it.
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