Located at the foot of the Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch mountains, Lauterbrunnen is also known as the valley of 72 waterfalls. Dreamy, spectacular, and mesmerizing with a plethora of activities for visitors, it is described as the closest thing to heaven on Earth. Does that make you want to start packing and book a ticket immediately? Don’t worry, you are not alone.
Switzerland may be infamous as one of the most expensive countries in Europe, but if you are wise about your travel plans, you can enjoy Lauterbrunnen on a budget. Set aside money for your lodgings and food, and still have enough left to enjoy all the best things to do in the area.
One secret that travelers need to know if they want to save money, is to stay in hostels. Hostels are all over the world and not only are they cheaper than hotels, they are comfortable too. Who knows, you just might meet someone who’ll become a lifelong friend.
Before you head out, check out our favorite hostels in Lauterbrunnen.
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Lauterbrunnen
- Best Overall Hostel in Lauterbrunnen – Schutzenbach Backpackers and Camping
- Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Lauterbrunnen – Camping Jungfrau Alpine Lodge
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
What to Expect from Hostels in Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is a popular tourist destination that has a multitude of hostels. Geared towards adventure seekers and those who like exploring the wilderness, hostels in the area tend to be quiet and laid back. Travel desks are familiar sights, offering guests a variety of adrenaline-inducing activities.
Hostels in the area cater to all types of travelers, be it singles, couples, large groups, or families. You can always find something that fits your needs. HostelWorld is the best place to look for hostels. Filtering and booking are as easy as 1-2-3 on the platform. You can complete the transaction with just the click of a button!
How much can you expect to spend on hostels in Lauterbrunnen? It depends if you are comfortable sleeping with strangers in a room or if you’d like to be alone. Needless to say, sleeping in a shared room means spending a minimal amount.
- Dorm rooms – $40 to $80
- Private rooms – $60 to $180
Best Hostels in Lauterbrunnen
Here are some of the coolest hostels in Lauterbrunnen!
Schutzenbach Backpackers and Camping – Best Overall Hostel in Lauterbrunnen
Schutzenbach Backpackers and Camping is one of the best hostels in Lauterbrunnen for a comfortable stay. Catering to people aged 18 to 35, it’s the best place to meet backpackers who are into adventures. Believe us, there’s plenty of action in the area that you might just have to extend your stay to try them all.
Located in the Lauterbrunnen valley and open during summer and winter, the property is the ideal base to explore the nearby areas and all the adventure sports it has to offer. There are more than 70 majestic waterfalls nearby and the area is the perfect jumping-off point for those who would like to explore Jungfrau and Schilthorn.
Don’t forget to ask the travel desk about adventure bookings. If there are any that tickle your fancy, book them right away! You won’t regret it, we assure you. After a day of adventuring, you’ll be happy to come home to hot showers and a comfortable bed. Security lockers are available in the dorms for your peace of mind.
The area is safe and quiet, and although it’s a bit far from the city center, getting around is not difficult with a bus stop right next to the hostel. The staff is super friendly and more than happy to assist guests with their needs.
The good things don’t end there..
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Currency exchange
- Laundry facilities
All the cabins are cozy, and come with the most amazing views that belong in postcards. Wi-Fi is available and parking is free for those who are driving. The book exchange is the perfect way to get rid of books you have read, and switch them in for new ones.
Laundry facilities are available, as well as an ATM and currency exchange, so you don’t need to worry about not having enough cash. There are a range of different types of rooms for guests such as single, twin, and double rooms, as well as dormitories. Whatever budget you have, there is a perfect spot for you.
Camping Jungfrau Alpine Lodge – Best Hostel with Private Rooms
Situated at the foot of the renowned Staubbach Waterfall, Camping Jungfrau is where you should start your visit to the Top of Europe. If you’re into admiring Mother Nature, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. The hostel provides free biking and hiking maps to guests so you’ll know exactly where to go, and what to see.
Before heading out for your day’s adventure, don’t forget to grab some food at the traditional Swiss restaurant. They serve enviable Swiss fare such as rosti, Swiss cheese fondue, salads, raclette, and so much more. There is even a supermarket on the property where you can buy some snacks for your backpack.
A few sights that are close to the hostel and worth a visit are Interlaken and the Trümmelbach Glacier Waterfalls.
But wait, there’s more…
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Children’s play area
- Supermarket on site
- Near cable car station and railway
Free Wi-Fi is accessible in all common areas, as well as in the rooms. The hostel is family-friendly, too. Smoking is not allowed, and there’s a dedicated area where children can play. The beds are very comfortable and outfitted with pillows, sheets, and blankets for your warmth and comfort.
If you’d like to try skydiving and paragliding, you’ll be happy to know that the hostel has local partners and can help you arrange adventure sports. During the ski season, a free ski shuttle is available.
You don’t have to walk far to catch public transportation as the hostel is near the railway and cable car stations. You can spend most of your time enjoying everything Lauterbrunnen has to offer instead of wasting your time on transport.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodations
Aside from hostels, Lauterbrunnen has other rental properties that are within the same price range as hostels, but with a few extra amenities thrown in. Let’s take a look at them!
Valley Hostel – Great Dorm for Couples in Lauterbrunnen
Highly rated by couples, Valley Hostel boasts an excellent location. Different types of rooms are available for guests to choose from such as twin, double and triple rooms, as well as quadruple and family rooms. Most of them feature stunning mountain views of the surroundings, get ready to whip out your camera!
The hostel is close to the train station, making it easy to hop on a train for a day trip. There is a shared kitchen if you want to prepare your meals and save some money. A tour desk, ski storage, and luggage storage are also free to use, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
There are a wide array of activities to be enjoyed on-site or in the surrounding areas, including hiking and cycling. Those driving to the area can take advantage of the free parking. Restaurants, bars, and cafes are all nearby for big evening meals and a few nightcaps.
Don’t forget some of the most popular attractions nearby such as Staubbahc Falls, Innerwengen, Figeller, Mürrenbahn, Mount Eiger, and Schilthorn.
Apartment in a Swiss Chalet – Hostel for Large Groups in Lauterbrunnen
Located in a quiet part of town, this apartment is in a charming Swiss chalet which is not only cozy but wonderfully equipped for a large group. It is only five minutes’ walk to the train station for easily getting from one place to another. Get an early start, and you will have a 25% discount on your ticket!
The world-famous Staubbach Falls is just a 10 minute stroll away. You can wake up in the morning, prepare breakfast in the kitchen and take a stroll to the falls, and make it back to the apartment in time to prepare lunch!
The variety of things to do around the home will keep you entertained. As a matter of fact, you just might need to extend your stay to fit everything in.
Private Room in a Family Chalet – Best Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Traveling alone doesn’t always mean blowing your budget on a place to stay. You can still stay within your budget! You just need to know where to look for suitable and economical lodgings, and this private room in a family’s home is ideal.
A small breakfast is included in the daily rate, for a great start to your day. There are also a few amenities in the room such as a mini-fridge where you can stash food, microwave, coffeemaker, and kettle.
The stunning view outside the room is something that you won’t forget. There are chairs and a little table where you can sit with your cup of coffee in the morning. Just take in the beauty of the surroundings before you head out.
What to Pack for your Lauterbrunnen Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Lauterbrunnen Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Lauterbrunnen cost?
Lauterbrunnen hostels are in the same price range as other hostels in Switzerland. Dorm rooms cost from $40 to $80 per bed on average, while private rooms cost $60 to $180 per room.
What are the best hostels in Lauterbrunnen for couples?
With stunning mountain views and great outdoor gardens/terrace, Valley Hostel is the best hostel to book with your partner.
What is the best hostel in Lauterbrunnen near the airport?
The nearest airport that caters to Lauterbrunnen is Belp Airport. Both Camping Jungfrau Alpine Lodge and Schutzenbach Backpackers and Camping are the same distance from the airport. It takes about an hour’s drive from both hostels to get to the airport.
Travel Safety Tips for Lauterbrunnen
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts
Quaint villages, glacial waterfalls, ski slopes, and hiking trails are just some of the many things you will see and enjoy when in Lauterbrunnen.
If you want to get away from the demands of work and life, as well as have some time to enjoy nature, whether by yourself, with family, or with friends, Lauterbrunnen is a must-visit.
If you want nothing but the best experience, stay at Schutzenbach Backpackers and Camping. Not only does the hostel offer adventure bookings, but it is also ideally located and has currency exchange on-site for your convenience.
- Check out where to stay in Switzerland for some dope accommodation
- Plan your road trip around the most beautiful places in Switzerland to visit.
- Get yourself covered with travel insurance for Europe.
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking in Switzerland.
- Don’t forget the essentials with our in-depth backpacking packing list.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
