Day Trip from Zurich: Grindelwald First Mountain Adventure

Planning a trip to Switzerland often means dreaming of towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages. If you’re short on time but want to experience the majesty of the Bernese Oberland, this day trip from Zurich to Grindelwald First might just be the perfect choice. It offers a little bit of everything—spectacular scenery, adrenaline-pumping activities, and peaceful hikes—all packed into a 12-hour window.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines comfortable transportation with breathtaking views. The cable car ride up to Mount First is a highlight, offering stunning panoramas you’ll want to take in from the First View vantage platform. Plus, the opportunity to walk the First Cliff Walk—a suspension bridge along a steep cliff—adds that perfect dash of thrill. The other big win? The chance to hike to Lake Bachalpsee, a picture-perfect alpine lake that’s as postcard-worthy as it gets.

That said, there are a few considerations. Because the tour is quite full and packed with activities, it might feel rushed if you want lots of time at each stop. Also, some adventure activities on Mount First, like the zip line or mountain carts, are optional and can involve long wait times—so don’t count on fitting everything in if it’s busy. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and fun-filled day with knowledgeable guides, this trip is likely to suit travelers who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and adventure.

This tour tends to work best for those with a sense of adventure—and a love for stunning mountain vistas. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a solid way to see some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views from the cable car, First View platform, and scenic hikes.
• Variety of activities: cliff walk, hikes, optional zip line, mountain carts, and scooters.
• Comfortable transportation with a professional, multilingual guide.
• Good value: includes cable car, train, and guided commentary, making it a full-day experience.
• Moderate physical activity: the main hike to Lake Bachalpsee takes around 1.5-2 hours.
• Potential for long wait times for adventure activities during busy periods.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting from Zurich

Your adventure kicks off bright and early from Zurich’s Sihlquai Bus Station, with a comfortable coach ride to the Bernese Oberland. The route is as scenic as it gets, passing by five different mountain lakes and giving you a gentle preview of what’s to come. Our guides are multilingual and informative, sharing stories and facts about the region, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

The Charm of Grindelwald

Soon, you arrive in Grindelwald, a picturebook Swiss village famous for its alpine charm. It’s the perfect base for exploring the surrounding peaks. Here, you’ll have some free time to wander, soak in the atmosphere, or grab a quick coffee before heading up to Mount First.

Cable Car to Mount First

The highlight of the day is riding the cable car up to Mount First. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds into sweeping views of jagged peaks, lush valleys, and snow-capped summits. Once at the top, you’ll encounter the First Cliff Walk by Tissot, a suspension bridge that clings to the mountainside, offering a true adrenaline rush and unforgettable scenery.

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The First View Vantage Platform

Recently inaugurated, the First View platform elevates the experience further, giving you a panoramic perspective of the Alps. It’s an ideal spot for those quick photo moments, or just to stand in awe of where you are.

Scenic Hike & Lunch

After soaking up the views, you can enjoy a meal (food isn’t included, but the restaurant Berggasthaus First offers a sun terrace with impressive vistas). Post-lunch, a leisurely 6 km hike takes you to Lake Bachalpsee—a mirror-like lake surrounded by mountain peaks, perfect for photos and relaxing amidst nature.

Adventure Options

For thrill-seekers, optional activities are available. The First Flyer zip line is a standout—the gigantic line lets you fly over 800 meters at speeds of up to 84 km/h. Mountain carts and Trottibike scooters are also available if you prefer to stay on the ground. Keep in mind, long waits can occur, especially during peak times, so plan accordingly.

Return Journey & Grindelwald

For a more relaxed descent, you can take the cable car back down to Grindelwald, passing grazing cows and Swiss chalets along the way. You’ll have some free time to explore the village before catching the train back to Interlaken and then returning to Zurich.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at Zurich Sihlquai Bus Station, with a scenic drive to Bernese Oberland.
• Photo stop at Interlaken, a bustling gateway to the Alps.
• Explore Grindelwald and take the cable car to Mount First.
• Experience the Cliff Walk and enjoy the views from the First View platform.
• Eat at Berggasthaus First (food not included) with a sun-drenched terrace.
• Hike to Lake Bachalpsee, a gentle trek with rewarding scenery.
• Optional activities such as zip lining, mountain carts, or scooters.
• Descend via cable car and enjoy some free time in Grindelwald.
• Return to Zurich via train and coach, completing a full, rewarding day.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour costs $217 per person, which includes transportation, cable car, and guided commentary. It’s a good value considering the extent of the scenery and activities packed into the day. The tour lasts around 12 hours, so it’s a full day but well-planned to maximize your experience.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and food and beverages are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch might be wise. Also, since activities can sell out, arriving early and planning ahead for optional activities is advisable.

Authentic Tour Feedback

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides—not only for their storytelling but also for their safety and professionalism. One reviewer shared, “Our guide was absolutely brilliant, informative and funny! He really made the tour.” Others appreciated the stunning views that made every moment memorable.

Some travelers did mention that long waits for activities like the zip line or mountain carts can diminish the experience during busy periods. One reviewer noted, “The wait time exceeded 3 hours for some activities, so plan accordingly.” Weather can also influence the experience—fogs or rain might obscure the views, but even then, many still found value in the overall trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure-packed day trip suits travelers who want to see iconic Swiss scenery without committing to multi-day hikes or expensive train rides. It’s ideal for those who enjoy moderate physical activity—like a scenic hike—and are open to a bit of adrenaline at the same time.

If you’re traveling with friends or a solo traveler wanting a taste of the Alps, this tour offers a fantastic mix. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, relaxed day or those with mobility issues, given the activities and walking involved.

For anyone looking to capture stunning photos, experience Swiss mountain culture, and enjoy some fun adrenaline rushes, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of the Bernese Oberland.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. There are options to buy food at the restaurant Berggasthaus First, but it’s up to you to bring snacks or lunch if you prefer.

How long is the hike to Lake Bachalpsee?
The hike is about 6 km round trip, roughly 1.5 to 2 hours moving at a leisurely pace. It’s a gentle walk with amazing scenery.

Are the optional activities guaranteed?
No, activities like the zip line or mountain carts depend on availability and wait times, which can be long during busy periods.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, some warm layers (it can get cold up top), and your printed or digital voucher. Food and drinks are not allowed on the coach.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll travel comfortably in a coach with a professional guide, and the tour includes the cable car, train, and other scenic transportation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is mostly suitable for adults, the activities involve some physical effort and height, so they might not be ideal for very young children.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip can be affected by weather conditions like fog or rain, which might obscure views. However, the guides will adapt the day as best they can, and generally, the experience is still worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day that blends breathtaking landscapes, a touch of adventure, and the charm of Swiss mountain villages, this Grindelwald First tour offers a lot for its price. It’s well-organized, with friendly guides who help you make the most of the day, and the scenery truly lives up to the hype.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—long waits and weather dependencies are worth noting—it’s an excellent way to see a stunning corner of Switzerland without the need for complex planning or overnight stays. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this trip delivers a solid dose of Swiss mountain magic in just one day.

Enjoy your trip to Switzerland’s awe-inspiring Alps—they don’t disappoint!

You can check availability for your dates here: