There are many transportation options available when searching for ways to get from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen. You can get there by train, by car, and by bus.
I have put together this complete guide with all the details you need, such as the train schedule and prices, the distance by car between Zurich and Lauterbrunnen, and much more.
OVERVIEW – TRAVEL FROM ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN
Here is a brief overview to travel to Lauterbrunnen from Zurich that you will find in this post:
- Zurich to Lauterbrunnen train
- Zurich to Lauterbrunnen by bus
- Zurich to Lauterbrunnen by car
GETTING AROUND SWITZERLAND
When planning a trip to Switzerland, one of the best and most popular ways to get around the country is by using the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass which includes the majority of train services, buses, and boats throughout the whole of Switzerland.
Once you have purchased the Swiss Travel Pass online, you’ll receive an email with your tickets that you will have to print and keep with you at all times.
I also recommend downloading the SBB Mobile app from the App Store. You can use this app to check all train, bus, and boat timetables in Switzerland when you’re on the move.
HOW TO GET FROM ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN
When visiting Lauterbrunnen, if you are arriving from another country, it’s quite likely that you will first fly into the city of Zurich.
So the next journey to plan on your agenda is how to get to Lauterbrunnen from Zurich.
There are three main transportation options and they are: catching the bus, renting a car, or taking the Zurich to Lauterbrunnen train.
Trains and buses to Lauterbrunnen run from Zurich, and you can book in advance online to lock in a time that fits your schedule. This is the best way to travel to Lauterbrunnen.
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Get unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!
Simply show your Swiss Travel Pass e-ticket on your smartphone to instantly start your rail adventure.
ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN BY TRAIN
There are two routes to travel by train from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen: one via Lucerne and one via Bern. Both routes require two train changes, first in Lucerne or Bern, and then again in Interlaken.
TRAVEL BY TRAIN FROM ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN THROUGH LUCERNE
This is the more scenic route, especially with the stretch through the Brünig Pass. The journey takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes.
You’ll need to change trains in Lucerne and again in Interlaken Ost before reaching Lauterbrunnen.
The first train from Zurich is at 01:02 AM, and the last one departs at 12:08 AM. I don’t recommend night routes as they take much longer to get to Lauterbrunnen. Trains run regularly throughout the day and are much quicker.
TRAIN FROM ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN THROUGH BERN
This is the fastest train, taking just over 2 hours. You’ll change trains in Bern and Interlaken Ost. It’s a more direct line with fewer mountain views but a quicker option overall.
The first train on this route leaves Zurich at 01:02, and the last train departs at 00:42. Again, I recommend taking the train during the day as night routes take much longer.
There are over 30 connections per day, so you’ll have plenty of flexibility.
Train ticket prices cost between $70 to $100 USD, depending on when you travel and how early you book.
It’s best to book your train tickets in advance to lock in the cheapest prices. If you’re traveling on a budget, look out for cheap train tickets, especially during off-peak hours.
You can buy a ticket online via the SBB website or app, but I ultimately recommend getting the Swiss Travel Pass, and you save money on train tickets too.
BUS FROM ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN
If you prefer to travel from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen by bus, you will travel the same roads as you do in the car, via Lucerne.
However, you will need to get train transfers at the end of your journey. You’ll first catch a bus from Zurich Airport (Kloten) to Interlaken. This ride takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
From Interlaken, it’s a short 20-minute train ride to Lauterbrunnen, with departures every hour. The bus follows the same road route as driving, via Lucerne, and requires a final train transfer at the end.
If I had to choose between the bus and train, though, I would personally go for the latter.
RELATED GUIDE: Where to Stay in Zurich
ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN BY CAR
If you have a car or are hiring one, then your best route through the mountains is via Lucerne.
You can also pass by Bern if it’s on your itinerary for Switzerland, but it will take longer, about 2 hours and 15 minutes. It’s a twisty drive with some narrow roads, but you’ll get great views and can stop whenever you like.
Non-stop, the journey from Lauterbrunnen to Zurich by car should take you around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
The distance between Zurich and Lauterbrunnen is 129 km via Lucerne and 194 km via Bern.
Pro tip: Make sure to compare the hotels in Lauterbrunnen and book one with a parking lot, as not all of them have one.
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JOIN A TOUR FROM ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN
The best option to visit Lauterbrunnen on a day trip is to join a tour from Zurich, which is more organized, hassle-free and includes other great stops on the way.
You’ll depart early in the morning by bus, which allows you to take in all the views over the mountains and landscapes. On the way, you’ll see Lucerne, Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch, before taking a stop in Lauterbrunnen.
It’s a great option because you won’t need to take trains from Lauterbrunnen back to Zurich, which is quite convenient.
You’ll take the bus back to Zurich, and I’m confident you’ll have plenty of memories to take back home with you!
BEST TOUR IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
The BEST way to visit is to join a Guided Day Trip to Jungfraujoch with Lauterbrunnen!
It includes transportation, the cable car ride, the train to Jungfraujoch and Lauterbrunnen, and a fun guide!
BEST LAUTERBRUNNEN TOURS
There are so many sights and experiences to take in. From the gorgeous valleys, the glacial waterfalls, and the beautiful mountain ranges, it can be hard to decide where to start.
Guided tours can be a perfect way to see the local area and have the on-hand experience from a knowledgeable guide to make your experience one to remember.
I have put together a separate blog post that you might also like to check out.
FULL BLOG POST: TOP TOURS IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
If you’re looking for places to eat, check out my guide to the best restaurants in Lauterbrunnen.
THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
Now that you know all the details on how to get from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen, you might like to check out my complete guide on the Best Things To Do In Lauterbrunnen.
My Lauterbrunnen travel guide includes epic waterfalls, thrill-seeking activities, hiking and cycling, the best day trips from Lauterbrunnen, and lots more!
READ NOW: BEST THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
WHERE TO STAY IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
Most people stay in Interlaken, just 20 minutes from Lauterbrunnen by car or train.
I’ve picked a few top places to stay for every budget, from hostels to luxury hotels, all easy to reach after the Zurich to Lauterbrunnen trip.
Luxury: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
Mid Range: Hotel Interlaken
Budget: Valley Hostel
FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY, SEE MY COMPLETE GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN TRAIN FAQ
Here are the most common questions travelers ask before booking their trip. Make sure to go through these before heading to Zurich and eventually Lauterbrunnen.
HOW LONG IS THE TRAIN FROM ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN?
The train from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes via Bern, which is the fastest route. If you go via Lucerne, the journey is a bit longer, around 3 hours and 15 minutes, but it’s also more scenic.
Both options require you to change trains twice, in Interlaken and either Bern or Lucerne. Trains are reliable, clean, and run frequently throughout the day, so it’s a smooth transfer.
WHAT IS THE CHEAPEST TICKET PRICE?
The cheapest train ticket from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen starts around $70 USD if you book early or travel during off-peak hours. Prices can go up to $100 USD depending on when and how you book.
For the best deals, buy your ticket in advance or check for discounts using the SBB app or website.
The best option is the Swiss Travel Pass, which covers this route and will save you money if you plan to travel around Switzerland by train.
ARE THERE DIRECT TRAINS TO LAUTERBRUNNEN?
No, there’s no direct train from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen. You’ll need to change trains twice at Bern or Lucerne and then at Interlaken Ost.
Even though you’ll need to switch trains, the connections are well-timed and smooth, with clear signs and announcements. It’s a very common trip, so everything’s set up to make it stress-free, even if you don’t speak the language.
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FINAL THOUGHTS – ZURICH TO LAUTERBRUNNEN TRAIN
I hope you found this article useful, and if you have any questions about how to go to Lauterbrunnen from Zurich, please drop me a comment below this post, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
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THANKS FOR READING
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