From Zürich: Interlaken and Grindelwald Day Trip by Coach

If you’re dreaming of Swiss mountain vistas but don’t want to spend hours planning your own itinerary, a guided day trip from Zürich might be just the ticket. This particular tour, offered by Gray Line Zurich, takes you on a scenic 11.5-hour journey through some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes—think snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes, and charming alpine towns. From the comfort of a climate-controlled coach, you’ll get to see a lot without the hassle of navigating public transport or driving yourself.

Two things we genuinely like about this trip are the scenic coach ride itself, which offers stunning views along the way, and the freedom to explore Interlaken and Grindelwald at your own pace. Plus, the option to add on a cable car ride up Mount First adds that extra bit of adventure for those craving a panoramic view of the Bernese Alps. However, a consideration worth noting is that the day is quite packed—some may find the short time in each location limits how much they can see or do.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a well-organized overview of the region without the need to self-guide or book multiple tickets. If you love beautiful scenery, appreciate comfortable transportation, and don’t mind a fairly full schedule, this trip could be a great fit. But if you prefer multiple days of exploring or detailed guides at each stop, you might want to look at more in-depth, local excursions.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation in a climate-controlled coach makes for a relaxed day.
• Flexible free time in Interlaken and Grindelwald allows you to explore at your pace.
• Stunning scenic views during the coach ride provide plenty of photo opportunities.
• An optional cable car ride offers an exhilarating way to see the Alps from Mount First.
• The tour starts early and lasts about 11.5 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Good value for the price, with many travelers praising the guide and organization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

This guided coach tour from Zürich is designed for travelers who want to soak in the Swiss Alpine beauty without the stress of planning each detail. It begins early at Zurich’s Sihlquai bus terminal, about 200 meters behind Zurich’s main train station. Once onboard, you’ll settle into a comfortable coach, ready for the scenic journey ahead.

The Scenic Coach Ride

The journey itself is one of the highlights. As you leave the city behind, the landscape quickly transforms into postcard-worthy Swiss scenery. Expect sweeping views of snow-draped peaks, lush valleys, and shimmering lakes as you wind your way through the Bernese Oberland region. Several reviews mention how the coach ride feels like part of the experience, with many noting the driver’s skill in navigating the winding mountain roads.

One traveler, Fred, captures this well: “It was one of the most beautiful trips in my life,” highlighting how the scenery alone can make this trip worthwhile. The coach is described as comfortable and clean, which adds to the enjoyment of such a long day.

Interlaken: Lakeside Charm and Free Exploration

Interlaken is your first stop—at the foot of towering mountains and between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Bienne. It’s a small town packed with charm, shops, and cafes. Many reviews praise the free time here, allowing visitors to stroll along the lakeshore, snap photos, or browse local souvenirs.

While the town is picturesque, some mention that the time here is a bit limited, which can make it challenging to fully soak in everything. That said, the flexibility to wander at your own pace is a definite plus for many travelers.

Grindelwald: The Glacier Village

Next up is Grindelwald, known as the “Glacier Village.” This quaint town exudes authentic Swiss alpine atmosphere, with wooden chalets and stunning mountain views. You’ll have ample free time here too—great for wandering, grabbing a snack, or just sitting back and enjoying the crisp mountain air.

Many reviews speak highly of this stop; Gulzar notes that the guide and driver were both fabulous, with the coach arriving on time and making the experience smooth. Savoring local delicacies or taking photos of the dramatic peaks are popular activities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Cable Car to Mount First

For those wanting a bit more adventure, there’s the option to purchase a cable car ride to Mount First’s terrace at 2,168 meters. The panoramic views of the Bernese Alps are breathtaking, and many find this extra trip well worth the cost. However, it’s an extra expense, and since the tour doesn’t include it, travelers should plan accordingly.

Return Journey

Later in the day, you’ll reboard the coach for the return to Zürich, reflecting on a day filled with incredible scenery and memorable moments. The reviews praise the punctuality and professionalism of the guides and drivers, making the long day more comfortable.

What Sets This Tour Apart

While many tours cover similar regions, this trip’s value is in its balance of guided convenience and free exploration. The scenic coach ride is a major highlight—it’s not just transportation, but part of the experience, offering spectacular views from your seat. The stops in Interlaken and Grindelwald give you the freedom to wander and experience these iconic Swiss towns on your own terms, which many travelers appreciate.

The knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers are often highlighted as a strength. As one reviewer put it, “The guide Kid was very funny and helpful,” which helps make the long hours more enjoyable.

The Cost and Value

Priced at $121 per person, this tour is considered quite reasonable given the length, transportation, and the regions covered. The inclusion of guide and bus transportation means you won’t have to worry about navigating or booking separate tickets, which adds value for travelers who want a hassle-free experience.

However, the short amount of time in each location means you’re primarily capturing the essence of Interlaken and Grindelwald rather than exploring them in depth. For many, that’s perfectly fine—it’s a taste of Switzerland’s beauty rather than a full immersion.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Be punctual for the meeting point at Zurich’s Sihlquai bus terminal, as the tour starts early.
• Bring layers—weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• Consider purchasing the cable car ride if panoramic mountain views are a priority.
• Be prepared for a full day; comfortable shoes and snacks are a good idea.
• Check the availability of starting times to fit your schedule.

Who Is This Tour Best for?

This day trip is especially good for first-time visitors who want a straightforward way to see some of Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes without the stress of planning. It suits travelers who appreciate comfortable transportation, scenic views, and the flexibility to explore towns on their own. It’s also ideal for those traveling with a group or family, as the coach provides ample space and a relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re someone who loves to spend hours exploring every detail or wants a guided tour with in-depth commentary at each stop, you might find this trip a bit rushed. But for those seeking an overview with a touch of adventure, it hits the mark.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour begins at the Zurich Sihlquai bus terminal, about 200 meters behind Zurich HB (main station).

How long is the tour? Approximately 11.5 hours, with the trip starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, with a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for rain? Yes, it takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Are pets allowed? No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

What language is the guide? The tour is conducted in English.

Is there an option to do activities like ziplining or slides? The tour focuses on sightseeing; additional activities like ziplining are available but are not part of this package.

Will I have enough time at each stop? The stops are designed for free exploration, but the time may feel a bit tight, especially if you want to do specific activities or take lots of photos.

Is the coach comfortable? Yes, reviews say the coach is well-maintained, comfortable, and clean.

Can I upgrade or add extra experiences? The cable car to Mount First is an optional purchase; other upgrades are not specified.

Final Thoughts

This Zurich to Interlaken and Grindelwald day trip offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, comfortable travel, and free time to explore two of Switzerland’s most renowned alpine towns. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a straightforward, well-organized way to experience the Swiss Alps without the hassle of multiple bookings or complex logistics.

While the schedule is full and the time in each location brief, many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the stunning scenery as key highlights. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, scenic overview of the Bernese Oberland with the convenience of guided transportation, this tour certainly delivers on that front.

For those wanting a quick taste of Switzerland’s mountains, or for travelers with limited time, this trip is a practical and enjoyable choice.

Hopefully, this detailed look helps you decide if this Swiss Alps day trip fits your travel style. Whether you’re after iconic views, charming towns, or just a break from city life, it could be a memorable part of your journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: