From Zürich: Interlaken and Grindelwald Day Trip by Coach

From Zürich: Interlaken and Grindelwald Day Trip by Coach

This guided coach tour from Zurich to two of the most iconic Swiss mountain towns—Interlaken and Grindelwald—offers a full day of breathtaking scenery, charming streets, and the chance to experience the Bernese Oberland. For $121 per person, you get roughly 11.5 hours of scenic travel, local exploration, and optional adventures, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts.

What we particularly love about this trip is the comfortable, climate-controlled coach that takes you through some of Switzerland’s most mesmerizing landscapes. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the views without the hassle of driving or navigating public transport. Also, the ample free time at each stop means you can soak in the atmosphere at your own pace—whether that’s snapping photos, browsing shops, or simply soaking up the mountain air.

One consideration we’d mention is that the schedule can be tight, especially if you want to indulge in additional activities like the Mount First cable car ride. The time in each town is enough to enjoy a leisurely stroll, but if you’re craving a full-day adventure or multiple activities, you might find yourself wishing for more hours.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic landscapes, want the comfort of a guided day trip, and prefer a balance of structured travel with independent exploration. It’s especially good for those who are new to the region and prefer not to worry about logistics but still want authentic Swiss mountain experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation ensures stress-free travel through the Swiss Alps.
• Flexible free time in Interlaken and Grindelwald allows personalized exploration.
• Scenic coach ride offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lakes.
• Optional activities like the Mount First cable car can add adventure.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with helpful commentary and local insights.
• Good value considering transportation, guide, and sightseeing options.

A Closer Look at the Experience

We loved the way this tour combines scenic beauty with practical convenience. Leaving from Zurich’s centrally located Sihlquai bus terminal, the comfortable coach whisks you away through Swiss landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a postcard.

The Journey

As you settle into the coach, you’ll begin a scenic drive that showcases the snow-draped peaks of the Bernese Oberland. During the ride, your guide shares interesting tidbits about the area, helping you understand what you’re seeing. The coach itself is praised for being clean and comfortable, making the long hours more enjoyable.

Interlaken: Lakeside Charm

Your first stop is Interlaken, the gateway to the Alps. Situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this town boasts a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. You’ll have plenty of free time here to explore on your own. Reviewers frequently mention how beautiful the lakes and mountain views are, and how easy it is to lose yourself in the peaceful surroundings.

Fred describes the trip as “one of the most beautiful experiences in my life,” emphasizing the stunning scenery and attentive customer service. We love that you can stroll along the lakes, browse local shops for souvenirs, or find a cozy café to relax.

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Grindelwald: The Glacier Village

Next, you’ll head to Grindelwald, known affectionately as the “Glacier Village.” This charming town offers a quintessential Swiss mountain experience with its alpine architecture and crisp mountain air. Reviewers consistently praise the authentic village feel and scenic streets.

Here, you can wander freely or opt for an extra cable car ride to Mount First, which reaches 2,168 meters. This optional ride promises panoramic views of the Bernese Alps that are truly unforgettable. One reviewer mentioned that the cable car ride is “costly,” so it’s worth considering whether the extra expense fits your budget and interests.

Flexibility and Extra Adventures

The optional Mount First cable car ride is a highlight for many, offering spectacular vistas of peaks, glaciers, and sun-drenched terraces. It’s an excellent way to add a bit of adventure to an already scenic day.

However, as several reviews point out, there’s a limited amount of time in each location. Some travelers felt that the “visit time is a bit short,” especially if you want to indulge in additional activities or take extensive photos. The tour primarily focuses on getting you between points efficiently, which suits those eager to see as much as possible in one day.

Returning to Zurich

The return journey is equally scenic and comfortable, rounding out a full day of mountain vistas and charming towns. The guide and driver are praised for their punctuality and professionalism, ensuring a smooth trip back to Zurich.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently commend the knowledgeable guides—particularly mentioning Kid, who was described as “funny and helpful”—and the friendly driver. Many highlight the stunning scenery and how the trip alleviates the stress of planning transport, making it ideal for first-timers or those short on time.

Some reviews note that the “trip is run alongside other excursions,” which means focus on certain parts like Jungfrau may overshadow the free time in Interlaken or Grindelwald. Still, most agree that the experience offers excellent value considering transportation, guide, and sightseeing.

Practical Details: What to Expect

• Duration: 11.5 hours—most of your day is dedicated to traveling and exploring.
• Meeting Point: Zurich Central Bus Station, at the Sihlquai bus terminal—easy to find with GPS.
• Start Time: Varies, so check availability.
• Inclusions: Guide and bus transportation—no hotel pickup, so plan accordingly.
• Price: $121 per person, which many reviewers feel is reasonable given the scenic value and convenience.
• Not Included: Optional cable car rides, meals, and personal expenses.
• Weather: Rain or shine, the trip proceeds—be prepared for the Swiss weather with appropriate clothing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is ideal if you want a stress-free way to see the Alps without the fuss of driving or navigating public transit. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want to enjoy authentic Swiss mountain towns and stunning scenery in a single day. If you appreciate comfort, guided commentary, and free time to explore, this tour will suit you well.

However, if you’re hoping for a full-day of activities or more time in each town, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. It’s a good option for those who value scenic drives and authentic towns, rather than extensive activities or hikes.

The Sum Up

For those dreaming of Swiss mountain scenery, this coach trip from Zurich to Interlaken and Grindelwald offers a comfortable, scenic, and budget-friendly way to experience the Bernese Oberland. You’ll enjoy stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lakes, while having the flexibility to explore at your own pace in each charming town.

The guides and driver are consistently praised for their warmth and professionalism, which helps make the long day feel smooth and enjoyable. While the schedule can be tight, the overall experience balances scenic beauty with practical convenience—making it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those short on time.

If you love mountain vistas, authentic Swiss villages, and ease of travel, this trip will likely leave you with treasured memories. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a guided, scenic introduction to the Bernese Oberland without the complexity of planning everything independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, many reviews mention that the experience is great for families. The coach is comfortable, and the towns are perfect for wandering with children. Just be aware of the schedule and optional activities.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during your free time in Interlaken or Grindelwald.

Can I do the Mount First cable car ride?
Yes, this is an optional extra you can purchase. It offers a fantastic panoramic view but does come at an additional cost and requires some time management.

What if it rains?
The trip runs rain or shine. Be prepared with appropriate clothing, as Swiss weather can change quickly in the mountains.

How long do we stay in each town?
Typically, the free time in Interlaken and Grindelwald provides a few hours in each, enough for a leisurely stroll, shopping, or photos. Time is somewhat limited, so plan your priorities.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Pets are not allowed on this tour. Also, at higher elevations like Mount First, some travelers might feel unwell—be cautious if you have health concerns.

How do I meet the guide?
At the Zurich Central Bus Station, in the Sihlquai bus terminal, near the “Gray Line” check-in booth. Using GPS with the address Limmatstrasse 5, 8005 Zürich, helps find it easily.

You can check availability for your dates here: