After spending two days in the historic city of Lucerne, we checked out of our accommodation and made our way to the train station. We will be heading to Lauterbrunnen, where we will use it as base for exploring Jungfrau's top sights. Check out our 11D10 Switzerland Trip Itinerary + Overview post.

There is no direct train from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen. To get to Lauterbrunnen from Lucerne, you will need to change to a connecting train in Interlaken Ost. The journey from Lucerne to Interlaken is connected by the Luzern-Interlaken Express on the panoramic Golden Pass Line. 

The Golden Pass Line is one the most famous scenic train routes in Switzerland, connecting Lucerne and Montreux. Unlike the Bernina Express and Glacier Express, the Golden Pass Line is not one direct train. The train route consists of three sections: Lucerne to Interlaken Ost, Interlaken Ost to Zweisimmen and Zweisimmen to Montreux. 

Direct trains from Lucerne to Interlaken departs every hour, starting at 6.06 am. There are also other trains running from Lucerne to Interlaken during these intervals. However, I would really recommend that you wait for a direct train as it is easier, quicker and more convenient. 

You can check the train timetable and information on SBB app. To search for the train timetable from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen, you have to enter Luzen, Bahnhof as the departure point and Lauterbrunnen as the arrival point.

As the journey from Lucerne to Interlaken is part of a panoramic train ride, the train tickets are a little more expensive than regional trains. Tickets can be purchased from the ticket machines at Lucerne Main Station. 

We decided to get first class tickets for this journey. A one-way, first class ticket from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen costs 35.70 CHF with a half fare card. If you hold a Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel on the Golden Pass train for free.

The journey from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost will take 1 hour 49 minutes. You will need to transfer to a connecting train at Interlaken Ost Station in order to get to Lauterbrunnen. Trains to Lauterbrunnen usually leave from Platform 2A at Interlaken Ost Station, and departs every 30 minutes. It will take 20 minutes to get from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen by train. Although the train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen is not part of the Golden Pass Line route, the train ride is still wonderfully scenic.

 The Luzern-Interlaken Express trains are air-conditioned and equipped with oversized panoramic windows that stretch up to the ceiling. The seats in the first class cabin are comfortable and spacious with sizeable tables. There are also adequate space for us to store our large luggage.

Riding a scenic train in Switzerland is an experience in itself. As the train weaves its way into the Swiss countryside, the view from the windows changes from concrete buildings to rolling hills carpeted in lush greenery, azure lakes and glacier-fed streams. Every corner of the country makes you feel like you have stepped into a postcard. 

I would recommend sitting on the right side of the train to get the best view on the Luzern-Interlaken Express. Throughout the scenic ride, the picturesque landscapes kept our eyes glued to the large panoramic windows. I was trying to take pictures of the stunning landscapes during the train ride, but it was quite challenging due to the glare and reflections on the glass. Unlike regional trains, the windows on scenic trains cannot be opened, which create a terrible glare and reflection that makes photographing the landscapes incredibly hard. That was really frustrating!

Upon arriving at Lauterbrunnen Station, we loaded up Google Map on my phone and headed straight to the Valley Hostel for check in. For budget travelers, the Valley Hostel is probably one of the cheapest accommodation options that you can find in Lauterbrunnen. 

As the front desk has limited service hours, the hostel has implemented a self check-in process for guests. Although the standard check in time is 4 pm, we are allowed to check-in at 12 pm.  

Due to its popularity, the hostel is often booked out quickly. I would really recommend you to book your stay at least 6 months in advance to secure your preferred room. 

Each of the chalet has three floors. On the ground floor, you will find a communal kitchen and dining area. There is a separate toilet on the ground floor as well. The rooms are located on the second and third floors. 

Guests are free to use the shared kitchen to prepare their own meals. This is also one of the main reason why we decided to stay in a hostel. The shared kitchen will be cleaned extensively every day, so it is spotless despite being used by so many people.

The river has a beautiful whitish blue color as it is fed by the melt waters from the glacier. 

We enjoyed strolling along the picturesque river. The path was almost empty, and the only sound we heard was the gushing of the river and the chirping of birds.

There were very few benches along the promenade, and all of them were occupied when we were there. So, we headed back to the main trail after taking some photos. 

Surrounded by gigantic cliff faces, roaring waterfalls and traditional wooden chalets, Lauterbrunnen is exactly what most people picture when they think of Switzerland. It is a destination that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty.