Brienz(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Brienz, the top choice for families is Hotel Brienzersee, a family-run Alpine-style hotel with lake views and spacious family suites. It features a kids' playroom, free bike rentals, and a restaurant serving local cheese fondue and Swiss chocolate. Located just steps from the Brienz Lake shoreline, it offers easy access to hiking trails and the Brienz railway station, making it ideal for multi-generational travel in the Bernese Alps.

The town center of Brienz is the best area for staying, offering walkable access to Brienz Church, the lakeside promenade, and the Brienz railway station. This central location provides proximity to shops, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints. Stay at cozy guesthouses like Brienzersee Chalet, which offer traditional Swiss charm and panoramic mountain views—perfect for travelers seeking quiet, authenticity, and seamless access to nature and local culture.

Visitors to Brienz should experience the annual Alpabzug (Alpine Cattle Drive) festival, where herders lead cattle down from high pastures in traditional costumes, playing wooden horns. You can also join hands-on workshops at Brienz Craft Workshops, learning local skills such as wood carving, cheese-making, and embroidery. These immersive activities provide deep insight into the region’s alpine heritage and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

Hotel Alpenblick is a premier lakeside hotel in Brienz, situated on the western shore of Lake Brienz with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies overlooking the lake and Eiger Mountain. Built with local stone and timber, it features an on-site spa, organic restaurant serving fresh trout and seasonal vegetables, and guided night-time stargazing tours. Guests can enjoy sunrise over the glacier-laced peaks and sunset reflections on the still waters—ideal for a serene alpine retreat.

Photographers love Lake Brienz at dawn, when mist rises off the glass-like surface, reflecting the Eiger and Mönch peaks. The Lakeside Path (Lakeside Trail) offers perfect compositions of fishing boats and alpine silhouettes. For dramatic shots, climb the Brienz Church tower for panoramic views. In winter, the snow-covered rooftops and frozen lake create striking contrast—especially during the Golden Hour. Capture the magic of the Alps in every frame.

For couples seeking romance, stay at Brienzersee Hideaway Cottage, a secluded wooden cabin nestled beside Lake Brienz. It features a private hot tub, fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows facing the mountains. The hotel arranges custom candlelit dinners with regional wines and handmade chocolates. Enjoy morning walks along the lake and evening sunsets over the glaciers—perfect for creating unforgettable memories in a peaceful alpine setting.

From Brienz, take a train to Lauterbrunnen, then transfer to the Jungfrau Railway heading to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, passing through tunnels and valleys with breathtaking alpine scenery. Book your Jungfraujoch summit tickets in advance. Alternatively, hike the Brienz to Eiger Trail, a 4-hour route through forests and meadows, offering close-up views of the Eiger's north face—ideal for adventurous travelers.

Must-try dishes in Brienz include Brienz Lake Trout, freshly caught and grilled over charcoal, served with herb butter. Another highlight is the Alpine Cheese Platter, featuring locally produced Wälder Cheese and Lavod Cheese, paired with rye bread and honey. Don’t miss the Swiss Chocolate Molten Cake at Brienzer Altstadt Café, a rich dessert made with regional dark chocolate and served warm with vanilla cream—perfect after a day in the mountains.

Yes, Brienz is a hiker’s paradise. The Brienz Lake Loop Trail (7 km) winds around the lake, passing forests, meadows, and waterfalls, with views of the Eiger and Mönch. Another popular route is the Brienz to Eiger Trail, a 4-hour trek through alpine terrain with rewarding vistas of the Eiger’s north face. All trails are well-marked, with rest stops and viewpoints. Suitable for all levels, these routes offer immersion in pristine alpine landscapes and rare flora.

Winter transforms Brienz into a snowy wonderland. The Lake Brienz freezes partially, allowing ice fishing and skating. Nearby Alpine Ski Area offers slopes for all skill levels, with modern lifts and rental services. Each evening, the Brienz Square hosts a festive Christmas light display, accompanied by live music and warm Glühwein stands. Stay at a log cabin with a fireplace to enjoy cozy evenings with mountain views—ideal for a magical alpine escape.