Best Things to Do in Wengen Switzerland 2023
Things to Do in Wengen: Your Ultimate Guide for a Memorable Family Vacation
If planning a family vacation, consider visiting the charming village of Wengen in the heart of the Swiss Alps. With its idyllic mountain setting and various activities for all ages, Wengen is the perfect destination for families who want to create lasting memories together. This guide will provide a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Wengen, from hiking and skiing to sightseeing and exploring the local culture.
We spent four days in Wengen on our recent Switzerland trip and found some of the best scenery we’ve ever seen!
Best Things to Do in Wengen
Take a Train Ride to Kleine Scheidegg, then Junfraujoch
One of the most scenic train rides in the world is the one that takes you from Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg. This 50-minute journey takes you through the Lauterbrunnen Valley and up to the foot of the Jungfrau, the highest mountain in the Swiss Alps. The views from the train are breathtaking, and you can enjoy them from the comfort of your seat.
Continue Past Kleine Scheidegg & to Jungfraujoch & Sphinx Observatory
After arriving at Kleine Scheidegg, continue the journey up to the top of Jungraujoch for an unforgettable day trip.
Click here to read our complete guide to Jungfraujoch. Note: Junfraujoch features snow year-round. This picture was taken in June!
The Sphinx Observatory is located on the Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe. You can enjoy the surrounding mountain ranges from here and even see Mont Blanc on a clear day. The observatory is also home to an ice palace, a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
Explore the Jungfrau Region
The Jungfrau region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a good reason. It is home to some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the world, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy here. Whether you want to hike, ski, or take in the views, you will find something to suit your taste.
Enjoy the Best Views in Wengen
If you want the best views in Wengen, head to the Schynige Platte. This alpine meadow is a popular destination for hikers, but you can also reach it by taking the cogwheel train. You can enjoy the panoramic Bernese Alps and Lake Brienz views from here.
Or enjoy the amazing views from in town. Here’s the view from our rooftop VRBO in Wengen!
Walk Along the Main Street
The main street of Wengen is a charming pedestrianized road lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is the perfect place to stroll and take in the local culture. You can also stop at one of the cafes and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the world go by.
Go Mini Golfing
If you are traveling with young children, playing mini-golf is one of the most popular things to do in Wengen. The Lauberhorn Crazy Golf is a fun course that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Take a Cable Car Ride
One of the best ways to see the Bernese Oberland is to take a cable car ride. Several options include the cable car to the Schilthorn or the gondola to Mürren. No matter which one you choose, you will enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
For an unforgettable experience, take a modern cable car up to Mannlichen from downtown Wengen. This cable car has a fenced-in viewing platform that allows you to stand on the roof! See our complete Mannlichen review here.
Go Hiking
The Bernese Oberland is a paradise for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you want to take an easy stroll through the alpine meadows or tackle a challenging hike in the Jungfrau Massif, there is a hiking trail. Wengen’s most popular hiking trails include the Eiger and Panorama Trails.
Ski in the Jungfrau Ski Region
For winter sports enthusiasts, the Jungfrau Ski Region is a must-visit destination. With over 200 kilometers of ski slopes, there is something for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The ski resort is easily accessible from Wengen, and there are plenty of ski areas, including Kleine Scheidegg, Männlichen, and Grindelwald.
Explore the Trümmelbach Falls
The Trümmelbach Falls are a series of ten waterfalls located inside a mountain. The melting glaciers of the Jungfrau feed the falls and are a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. You can reach the falls by taking a short bus ride from Lauterbrunnen.
Visit the Local Swimming Pool and Ice Rink
If you visit Wengen in the summer, you can cool off at the local swimming pool. The pool is located in a scenic location and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In winter, you can hit the ice rink and try ice skating.
Take a Guided Tour of the Village
The village of Wengen is steeped in history and culture, and there is much to explore here. A guided tour is a great way to learn about the village’s history and most famous landmarks, including the Lütschine River and the suspension bridge.
Go Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a popular winter activity in Wengen, and there are plenty of trails to choose from. The trails wind through the snow-capped mountains and mountain pines, offering some of the region’s best views.
Enjoy a Great View from the Panorama Trail
The Panorama Trail is a scenic hiking trail that offers some of the best views in the region. The trail winds through alpine meadows and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great way to see the region and get some exercise at the same time.
Best Places to Stay in Wengen
If you plan a trip to Wengen, you will want to stay in a comfortable and convenient hotel. Here are some of our top picks for the best places to stay in Wengen:
Hotel Silberhorn
The Hotel Silberhorn is a family-run hotel that offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The hotel is located in the heart of Wengen and is a great place to stay.
Hotel Edelweiss
The Hotel Edelweiss is a charming hotel in Wengen. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great place to stay to relax and unwind.
Hotel Schönegg
Hotel Schönegg is a 3-star charming hotel located right in the center of Wengen.
With its stunning mountain views, comfortable accommodations, and excellent amenities, the hotel is a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and unforgettable vacation.
Best VRBOs and Other Hotels in Wengen:
Swiss Travel Pass
The Swiss Travel Pass and the Regional Pass Bernese Oberland are excellent options for travelers planning to explore Switzerland using public transportation. Each pass offers a range of benefits and discounts, making it easy to decide which one suits your itinerary best.
Swiss Travel Pass
The Swiss Travel Pass is a convenient, all-in-one ticket granting unlimited access to Switzerland’s public transportation network, including trains, buses, and boats. It also includes free admission to over 500 museums and discounts on mountain excursions. The Swiss
- Unlimited
travel on trains, buses, and boats in Switzerland - Free admission to over 500 museums
- Discounts on mountain excursions, such as Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi
- Free
travel for children under 16 when accompanied by a parent with a Swiss Family Card
Regional Pass Bernese Oberland
The Regional Pass Bernese Oberland is designed specifically for travelers exploring the Bernese Oberland region, including popular destinations like Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen. The pass offers unlimited
- Unlimited
travel on select trains, buses, boats, and cable cars within the Bernese Oberland region - Discounts on mountain excursions, such as the Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn
- Flexible
travel days within one month
Ultimately, the choice between the Swiss Travel Pass and the Regional Pass Bernese Oberland depends on your
However, if your focus is solely on the Bernese Oberland region, the Regional Pass Bernese Oberland could provide better value for your trip.
We ultimately went with the Oberland pass for our recent Switzerland trip, which focused mainly on Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Lucerne, with day trips to places like Jungfraujoch.
Swiss Trains
Switzerland is known for having one of the world’s most efficient and extensive train systems. The train network is a great way to get around the country and an excellent option for families traveling with kids. One of the main benefits of traveling by train in Switzerland is that it is safe, reliable, and eco-friendly. Additionally, many trains are equipped with features that make them especially kid-friendly.
Switzerland is known for having one of the world’s most efficient and extensive train systems. The train network is a great way to get around the country and an excellent option for families traveling with kids.
One of the main benefits of traveling by train in Switzerland is that it is safe, reliable, and eco-friendly.
Additionally, many trains are equipped with features that make them especially kid-friendly.
For example, some Swiss trains have playgrounds on the upper levels, which provide a fun and safe environment for kids to play and burn off energy during long journeys.
In this picture, the upper deck had a slide that our kids spent the whole two-hour ride playing with other kids on.
These play areas often contain slides, swings, and other toys to entertain children.
Some trains also have family compartments, which offer extra space and privacy for families traveling with young children.
Another great feature of Swiss trains is that they offer stunning views of the countryside and mountains.
Kids will love watching the changing scenery from the comfort of their seats, and parents will appreciate the opportunity to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Additionally, many Swiss trains offer onboard dining options, which are convenient for families traveling with kids who may need to eat or snack during their journey.
On this journey from Interlaken to Lucerne, the train featured a dining car, though full meals weren’t served.
FAQs
What is the best way to get to Wengen?
The best way to get to Wengen is by train. You can take a train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen and then transfer to the Wengernalp Railway.
What are some great day trips from Wengen?
Some great day trips from Wengen include visiting the nearby villages of Mürren and Grindelwald, taking a boat ride on Lake Thun, and exploring the city of Interlaken. On our trip, we also spent a day in Lucerne on the way back from Wengen.
What is the average temperature in Wengen?
The average temperature in Wengen varies depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), while temperatures can drop below freezing in the winter.
What should I do on a rainy day in Wengen?
On a rainy day in Wengen, you can visit the Trümmelbach Falls, explore the local museums, or take a guided tour of the village. You can also enjoy indoor activities like ice-skating or visiting the observation deck at the Sphinx Observatory.
What should I do on a clear day in Wengen?
On a clear day in Wengen, you should take advantage of the stunning views and go hiking or skiing. You can also take a cable car ride or visit one of the observation decks for even better views.
What are some travel tips for visiting Wengen with small children?
Bring warm clothing when traveling with small children, as the weather can be unpredictable. You should also bring snacks and water, as many options may not be available on the hiking trails. You may also want to consider purchasing a Swiss
Conclusion
Wengen is a small town with a big heart, and there are plenty of things to do for families with children of all ages. From hiking and skiing to sightseeing and exploring the local culture, there is something for everyone here. Whether you are visiting in the summer or winter, you will find that Wengen is an ideal starting point for exploring the heart of the Swiss Alps. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable family vacation in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world!
