Grindelwald First
An adventurer's paradise atop the Swiss Alps, offering thrilling rides, scenic hikes, and the iconic First Cliff Walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Grindelwald First
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An adventurer's paradise atop the Swiss Alps, offering thrilling rides, scenic hikes, and the iconic First Cliff Walk.
"Spectacular views and an adventurer's playground, but be prepared for the cost and potential queues."
🎟️ Book Activities Online
Skip queues and secure your spot for popular adventure activities by booking tickets in advance.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, including a jacket, even in summer for cool alpine air.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
First Cliff Walk by Tissot
Grindelwald First Summit
A thrilling metal walkway clinging to the cliff face, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Eiger and surrounding peaks.
+1
Bachalpsee Hike
From Grindelwald First
A relatively easy, scenic 2-hour roundtrip hike to a stunning alpine lake reflecting the majestic mountains.
Adventure Activities
Various points from Grindelwald First
Experience adrenaline-pumping rides like the First Flyer zipline, First Glider, and thrilling Mountain Carts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Adventure
Activity Tickets & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Activities Online
Skip queues and secure your spot for popular adventure activities by booking tickets in advance.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, including a jacket, even in summer for cool alpine air.
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for hiking to Bachalpsee or exploring the summit area. Good grip is recommended.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for incredible photo opportunities of the Alps and the unique cliff walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Activities Online
Skip queues and secure your spot for popular adventure activities by booking tickets in advance.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, including a jacket, even in summer for cool alpine air.
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for hiking to Bachalpsee or exploring the summit area. Good grip is recommended.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for incredible photo opportunities of the Alps and the unique cliff walk.
⏰ Arrive Early
To maximize your day and minimize wait times for activities, aim to be at the gondola station before opening.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Grindelwald First is celebrated for its spectacular alpine scenery and array of adventure activities, offering something for everyone from hikers to thrill-seekers. Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views from the First Cliff Walk and the scenic hike to Bachalpsee. However, the high cost of activities and potential for long wait times, especially in the afternoon, are common drawbacks mentioned by travelers.
"Expensive but also very beautiful scenery. Cost almost $200 U.S. dollars for two people. Cable car ride is 25 minutes and you can hike to the lake or do the cliff walk. I spent about a total of 4 hours here including the cable car ride."
Allen Lin
"Nice weather when we went up and we spent quite a while marvelling at the beauty of the place. Spent a long time walking around, taking pictures and just enjoying the cool weather."
Julius Tan
"Season summer/ Perfect for hiking and viewpoints, a lot of cows. Approximately 25 minutes the cable car route. Winter Jacket, and sunglasses too 😅. But be careful. If you want to do extra activities there, you have to be there early because at 14:00 there was a waiting list of 150 , 190 minutes .."
katerina gkoyma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Grindelwald First is by taking the Grindelwald-Firstbahn gondola from Grindelwald village. The scenic ride takes about 25 minutes and offers stunning views as you ascend.
There is no parking directly at the Grindelwald First summit. You'll need to park in Grindelwald village and take the gondola up. Parking garages are available in Grindelwald.
No, you cannot take a bus directly to Grindelwald First. The primary access is via the Grindelwald-Firstbahn gondola from the village.
Grindelwald is accessible by train, often involving a change in Interlaken Ost. Many visitors combine their trip with a stay in Grindelwald village.
The gondola ride from Grindelwald to Grindelwald First takes approximately 25 minutes, offering panoramic views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The First Cliff Walk by Tissot has no entrance fee and is accessible with your gondola ticket. However, adventure activities like the First Flyer, Glider, and Mountain Carts require separate tickets.
Gondola ticket prices vary, but expect around 68 CHF for a round trip for adults, with half-fare options available. Booking online can sometimes offer savings or skip-the-line benefits.
Yes, you can purchase tickets for activities like the First Flyer and Mountain Carts at Grindelwald First. However, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out.
Some visitors opt for adventure packages that bundle several activities for a set price, which can offer good value. Check the official Grindelwald First website for current offerings.
Opening hours for activities vary by season and specific attraction. It's best to check the official Grindelwald First website for the most up-to-date information, as some activities may close earlier than the gondola.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the First Cliff Walk, hiking to Bachalpsee, and adventure activities like the First Flyer, First Glider, and Mountain Carts.
The First Cliff Walk involves a metal walkway suspended from the cliff face, which can be daunting for those with a fear of heights. It offers spectacular views but requires a steady nerve.
The hike to Bachalpsee from Grindelwald First is a popular 2-hour roundtrip, offering beautiful alpine scenery.
The First Flyer is a thrilling zipline that allows you to soar through the air at high speeds, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
Mountain Carts are a fun, gravity-powered ride down a 3km natural road, combining elements of go-karts and sleds for an exhilarating descent.
📸 📸 Photography
The First Cliff Walk offers dramatic perspectives, Bachalpsee provides iconic reflections, and the various adventure activities offer dynamic action shots. The gondola ride itself also presents stunning photo opportunities.
Mornings generally offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for landscape photography. Late afternoon can also be beautiful with golden hour light, but be mindful of activity closing times.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Grindelwald First. However, if you plan on action shots, a GoPro or similar action camera can be beneficial.
Generally, photography is encouraged. However, be mindful of other visitors and safety regulations, especially on adventure rides.
Photos from the First Flyer will be dynamic shots of you soaring through the air with epic mountain backdrops. Some providers may offer photo packages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger adventurers, the playground area offers a place to burn off energy. Consider purchasing an adventure package if your children are old enough and eager for more thrills. 💰 Budget Travelers
The Bachalpsee hike is also free and offers incredible scenery for the cost of your transport up. Focus on enjoying the views and the hiking trails rather than purchasing every adventure activity. 💑 Couples
A leisurely hike to Bachalpsee provides a tranquil setting for conversation and enjoying nature's beauty. For a touch of adventure, consider a shared ride on the First Flyer or Mountain Carts for an adrenaline-filled experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Adventure Activities
For a different kind of aerial thrill, the First Glider pulls you backward up to a station before releasing you to glide back down like an eagle. +1For those who prefer to stay closer to the ground but still crave excitement, the Mountain Carts offer a fun descent down a 3km natural road. These gravity-powered carts are a cross between a go-kart and a sled, making for a playful and scenic ride.
Trotti Bikes (scooters) are another option for a downhill adventure, allowing you to cruise back to Grindelwald. It's important to note that these activities are ticketed separately from the gondola ride and can have significant wait times, especially during peak hours. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Hiking to Bachalpsee: A Scenic Gem
The roundtrip journey typically takes about two hours, making it an accessible option for most visitors. Starting from the Grindelwald First summit station, follow the signs for Bachalpsee. The trail is generally wide and not overly strenuous, though some uphill sections exist. Along the way, you'll encounter picturesque meadows, often dotted with grazing cows, adding to the quintessential Swiss alpine experience.
The First Cliff Walk: An Unforgettable Experience
+1 It's a fantastic way to experience the dramatic alpine scenery up close, with panoramic vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Access to the Cliff Walk is included with your gondola ticket to Grindelwald First, making it a must-do for all visitors.
The walk itself is not overly long, typically taking about 15-20 minutes to complete, but the views are immense. Be prepared for the height, as the walkway is suspended high above the ground, which can be exhilarating for some and a bit daunting for others. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit