by Jessica Howell
Switzerland – in all of its epic mountain glory – is known for one primary challenge when it comes to family travel: cost as steep as some of those peaks. And while a vacation in the Alps isn’t nearly as frugal as many other destinations, we found that by booking a family-friendly vacation rental and dining at home, our trip expenses were surprisingly reasonable.
Here, I’m sharing the VRBO that we stayed in during our time in Lauterbrunnen (see our full Switzerland family travel itinerary here!), as well as several others I’ve wish-listed for our next visit. Scroll to the bottom to see our stay!
NOTE: Some of the below properties are based in Wengen, an alpine village up the mountainside, near Lauterbrunnen. It’s worth a big asterisk that this is a car-free village. Meaning, you can either travel by train into Lauterbrunnen (the train system is lovely in Switzerland and easy to use!), or park your car in town before heading up toward Wengen. Once you’ve arrived, taxis are available, but mostly, you’ll walk to and from your accommodation to the train, cafes, etc.
LOCATION: Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 8
BEDROOMS: 3 bedroom
In the same residential block that our own VRBO was located, this condo differs only slightly – with upper floor balcony views and a more modern aesthetic, plus an additional bedroom meaning it sleeps up to 8. We adored this location, just at the edge of town, quiet and scenic as ever.
LOCATION: Beatenberg, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 4
BEDROOMS: 2 Bedrooms
A quaint and cozy apartment outside of Interlaken that looks like it’s been pulled straight from the pages of a magazine. With two bedrooms (one with a king, one with two twins) and the prettiest window and balcony views. Plus, it’s location makes for easy access to nearby castles, caves and exploration!
Mod Wegen Ski StyleLOCATION: Wengen, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 8
BEDROOMS: 3 Bedrooms
Chic ski decor, a wraparound balcony, and three bedrooms (queen bed, bunk and twins) allow up to 8 guests in this Wengen vacation rental that offers stunning views at every turn – this one was even featured in a decor magazine when it became a vacation rental!
This vacation rental gets good marks for it’s clean and modern vibes, commented on by reviewers. It’s a private escape with outdoor space, one queen bedroom and one with two twin beds.
LOCATION: Wengen, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 4
BEDROOMS: 2 bedroom
What this two-bedroom chalet lacks in space (it’s cozy close knit!), it makes up for in soft charm and jaw-dropping views. You’ll find a queen bedroom, a bunk bedroom, small living space, and – likely everyone’s favorite spot – a patio dining table overlooking the most dramatic views. (Who’s planning to stay stuck inside here anyway?)
Three-Bedroom Chic Hotel ApartmentLOCATION: Grindelwald, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 6
BEDROOMS: 3 Bedrooms
Technically, this apartment is part of a managed hotel, making it ultra convenient with on-site staff and easy proximity to Main Street. In addition to modern aesthetic, every bedroom also has a balcony, with views of the towering mountains surrounding this activity-packed city.
LOCATION: Grindelwald, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 4
BEDROOMS: 2 Bedrooms
If you’re looking for a calm and peaceful getaway, with space for the kids to run, this is your spot. A playset and lawn accompany this top-floor apartment, which is within a (steep) walk to the bus terminal. As you’d imagine, the price is right!
LOCATION: Wengen, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 4
BEDROOMS: 2 Bedrooms
The sweetest, petite set up with gorgeous mountain views and delicate (feminine) features throughout. A lovely garden and patio dining table, all within walkable distance to town in this village, which is technically a car-limited resort. You can hire a taxi, but not bring a rental car.
LOCATION: Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
GUESTS: Up to 5
BEDROOMS: 2 Bedrooms
At the edge of town, this two-bedroom condo sits on the lower floor with access to a grassy lawn nearby, and the most picture-perfect valley views. We watched paragliders land in the fields before us, dipped toes into the glacial creek at the edge of the grass and walked to the playground and town daily. Inside, it’s a basic European set up, with a queen in one room and a bunk bed and twin bed in another, sleeping a total of five.
