Murren, Switzerland Travel Guide

Experience the serene beauty of Mürren, a car-free Swiss alpine village offering breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences.

Nestled high in the Swiss Alps, Mürren is a picturesque village that offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. This charming destination is perched on a ledge above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, providing stunning vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. It is a car-free village, adding to its serene and unspoiled charm. Mürren is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, it transforms into a skier's paradise, with numerous slopes and trails for all skill levels. The Schilthorn, famous for its revolving restaurant and as a filming location for a James Bond movie, offers exciting skiing opportunities and panoramic views. During the summer, hikers can explore lush meadows, alpine flowers, and pristine mountain trails. The village is also rich in Swiss culture and tradition. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine in cozy mountain restaurants, visit traditional Swiss chalets, and participate in cultural events. Mürren's cable cars and funiculars make it easy to explore the surrounding areas, including the awe-inspiring Trümmelbach Falls and the charming village of Gimmelwald.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Murren.

Plan your visit outside of peak tourist seasons to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Wear comfortable shoes, as Mürren is a car-free village and involves a lot of walking.
Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as mountain weather can change quickly.
Take the cable car to the Schilthorn early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
Try local dishes like fondue and raclette at one of the village's cozy restaurants.

Explore Murren: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Murren

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Best Attractions

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Titlis Cliff Walk

Discover the breathtaking heights of the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe's highest suspension bridge, offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps and unforgettable adventures.

4.7

St. Beatus-Höhlen, Swiss Caves

Explore the enchanting St. Beatus-Höhlen, an extraordinary network of caves with stunning formations and rich historical significance in Switzerland.

4.6

Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum

Explore Switzerland's cultural heritage at Ballenberg, an open-air museum showcasing traditional buildings, crafts, and stunning natural landscapes.

4.7

Naturpark Blausee

Explore the stunning Naturpark Blausee, featuring a beautiful turquoise lake, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

4.5

Best landmarks in Murren

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Yash Chopra Statue

Discover the Yash Chopra Statue in Interlaken, a breathtaking tribute to cinema surrounded by stunning Alpine beauty.

4.4

Thrill Walk, Birg

Explore the Thrill Walk at Birg - where breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures meet in the Swiss Alps.

4.8

Panoramabrücke Sigriswil

Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating hikes at the Panoramabrücke Sigriswil, a stunning suspension bridge in Switzerland.

4.4

Mürren Viewpoint

Experience breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps at Mürren Viewpoint, an unforgettable scenic spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.7

Best restaurants in Murren

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Restaurant Weidstübli

Experience authentic Swiss cuisine amidst stunning alpine scenery at Restaurant Weidstübli in Lauterbrunnen.

4.5

Schilthorn - Piz Gloria 360°- Restaurant

Discover culinary delights and breathtaking views at Schilthorn - Piz Gloria, an iconic Swiss restaurant perched high in the Alps.

4.2

Hotel Eiger Muerren

Discover unparalleled comfort and stunning mountain views at Hotel Eiger Mürren – your perfect alpine getaway.

4.8

Restaurant Stägerstübli

Savor authentic Swiss dishes at Restaurant Stägerstübli while enjoying breathtaking views in beautiful Mürren.

4.5

Best bars in Murren

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Hotel Eiger Muerren

Experience the perfect blend of gourmet dining and wellness in the stunning Swiss Alps at Hotel Eiger Mürren, a haven for relaxation and culinary delight.

4.8

Restaurant Stägerstübli

Experience authentic Swiss dining at Restaurant Stägerstübli in Mürren, where local flavors and breathtaking views create a memorable culinary experience.

4.5

Hotel Alpenruh

Discover the charm of Hotel Alpenruh in Mürren - a perfect blend of cozy accommodation and exquisite Swiss cuisine in the Swiss Alps.

4.3

Tham Restaurant

Delve into authentic Chinese flavors at Tham Restaurant in Mürren, Switzerland, with breathtaking mountain views and warm hospitality.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Murren

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Jamming Corner

Discover the lively atmosphere and mixed drinks at Jamming Corner, Unterseen's top bar for tourists seeking a fun night out.

4.9

Sportchalet Mürren

Discover the alpine charm of Sportchalet Mürren, where adventure meets relaxation in the stunning Swiss Alps.

4.3

Hasenstall

Discover the lively charm of Hasenstall, Wengen's premier bar for locals and tourists to enjoy drinks and music in a cozy alpine atmosphere.

3.9

Balmers Bar & Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Balmers Bar & Club in Interlaken, where every night brings new adventures and unforgettable memories.

3.8

Best shops in Murren

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Coop

Discover the best of local Swiss products at Coop Supermarket in Mürren, your essential stop for quality food and treats in the heart of the Alps.

4.3

Café LIV

Discover the cozy charm of Café LIV in Mürren, where delicious breakfasts, brunches, and delightful cakes await amidst stunning alpine views.

4.7

Huggler Holzbildhauerei

Discover Huggler Holzbildhauerei in Brienz, where exquisite woodcraft meets Swiss craftsmanship, creating unique gifts and art pieces.

4.7

Intersport Mürren (Via Ferrata Rental & Outdoor Clothing)

Explore the Swiss Alps with top-notch gear from Intersport Mürren, your one-stop shop for outdoor adventures and via ferrata rentals.

3.7

Explore Murren on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Murren, mapped for you.

Murren Essentials

Mürren is a charming village located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), about 185 kilometers away. From Zurich, take a train to Interlaken Ost, then transfer to another train to Lauterbrunnen. From Lauterbrunnen, you can take a cable car to Grütschalp and then a train to Mürren. Alternatively, you can reach Mürren by taking a bus from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg and then a cable car up to the village.
Mürren is a car-free village, so transportation is primarily via trains, cable cars, and on foot. The village is small enough to walk around easily. For exploring the surrounding areas, the Swiss Travel Pass is highly recommended as it covers trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland. Local transport within Mürren and connections to nearby attractions are frequent and reliable.
The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case you visit more remote areas where card payments might not be possible. ATMs are available in Mürren, but withdrawing cash beforehand is advisable.
Mürren is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and the village is known for its peaceful atmosphere. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Mürren.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Mürren has a local medical facility for minor health issues, but for more severe cases, you may need to be transported to a hospital in Interlaken or Bern. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the village for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. Layering is advisable due to the alpine climate. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Dress modestly and remain quiet. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as Swiss public transport runs on a strict schedule. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüezi' (hello in Swiss German). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Swiss dishes such as fondue and raclette. Don’t rush meals; dining is often a leisurely experience.
To experience Mürren like a local, take the time to enjoy the stunning natural scenery. Hiking is a popular activity, and there are numerous trails suitable for all levels. Visit the local festivals and markets to get a taste of Swiss culture and traditions. Engage with locals at community events or in cafes; they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the village. For a unique experience, take the Schilthorn cable car to enjoy panoramic views and visit the James Bond exhibition at the summit.

When is the best time to visit Murren?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Murren

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Murren. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGrüezi
  [groo-ay-tsee]
- GoodbyeAdieu
  [ah-dyuh]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bih-tuh]
- Thank youDanke
  [dahn-kuh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee gayt es een-en]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und Ihnen?
  [goot oont een-en]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-leesh]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fair-shtay-uh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [ikh merkh-tuh dee shpy-zuh-kahr-tuh zay-en, bih-tuh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ess-uh kine fly-sh]
- Cheers!Zum Wohl!
  [tzoom vohl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bezahlen, bitte
  [ikh merkh-tuh buh-tsah-len, bih-tuh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-fuh]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [gay vekh]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee poh-lee-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee iyn-en ahrts]
- I'm lostIch bin verloren
  [ikh been fair-loh-ren]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been krunk]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh merkh-tuh kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shou-uh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel koh-stet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [kuh-nen zee den price sen-ken]
- What time is it?Wie viel Uhr ist es?
  [vee feel oor ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
- Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsayn]
- MorningMorgen
  [mohr-ghen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahk-mit-tahk]
- EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [geh-stern]
- TodayHeute
  [hoy-tuh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-ghen]
- 1eins
  [ynes]
- 2zwei
  [tsvay]
- 3drei
  [dry]
- 4vier
  [feer]
- 5fünf
  [foonf]
- 6sechs
  [zeks]
- 7sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8acht
  [ahkt]
- 9neun
  [noyn]
- 10zehn
  [tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [voh ist iyn/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-dreh-seh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [kuh-nen zee meer tsay-gen (ouf dehr kahr-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr nikh-stuh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [iyn-uh fahr-kahr-teh (nahkh)]

History of Murren

Mürren’s history dates back to the 13th century when it was first mentioned in historical records. The village, located in the Bernese Oberland region, was originally settled by Walser migrants from the Valais, who brought with them their unique cultural and architectural traditions. These early settlers established Mürren as an alpine farming community, utilizing the fertile meadows for grazing livestock.
The late 19th century marked the beginning of Mürren's transformation into a tourist destination. The construction of the Lauterbrunnen-Mürren Mountain Railway in 1891 made the village more accessible, attracting visitors drawn by its breathtaking alpine scenery. The opening of the first hotels soon followed, catering to the growing number of tourists who came for the fresh mountain air and stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
Mürren played a pivotal role in the development of winter sports, particularly skiing. In 1924, the Kandahar Ski Club was founded here by Sir Arnold Lunn, a British ski pioneer. The village hosted the first Alpine Ski World Championships in 1931, solidifying its reputation as a premier skiing destination. The Inferno Race, one of the oldest and longest downhill races in the world, has been held annually in Mürren since 1928, attracting ski enthusiasts from around the globe.
During World War II, Switzerland remained neutral, and Mürren was no exception. The village saw a significant decrease in tourism, but it became a haven for those seeking refuge from the war-torn regions of Europe. Mürren's remote location and tranquil environment provided a safe retreat, and the local community extended hospitality to those in need.
Following the end of World War II, Mürren experienced a resurgence in tourism. The 1960s and 1970s brought further modernization, including the construction of the Schilthorn cable car, which opened in 1967. This cable car provided access to the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant, famously featured in the James Bond film 'On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.' This exposure significantly boosted Mürren's international profile.
Despite its modernization, Mürren has retained much of its traditional charm and cultural heritage. The village is car-free, with transportation primarily by foot, bicycle, and cable car, preserving its serene alpine atmosphere. Local festivals, such as the annual Alpabzug, celebrate the transhumance of cattle and showcase traditional Swiss customs, music, and cuisine. Mürren’s well-preserved wooden chalets and picturesque landscapes continue to attract visitors seeking an authentic alpine experience.