Brienz is on the Zentralbahn Brünig line, the scenic route between Lucerne and Interlaken, which also serves Meiringen. Trains between Interlaken Ost and Brienz run through the day, and the ride takes roughly 20 minutes. Interlaken Ost is the main hub, with connections from Bern, Zurich and Basel. Because Brienz is on a through line, you can do it as a day trip from almost anywhere in Switzerland, but give the Rothorn trip at least 2.5 hours on its own (timetable).
From Interlaken
The simplest option: take any Zentralbahn train towards Meiringen or Lucerne from Interlaken Ost and get off at Brienz. Check the departure on sbb.ch; we did not read the current timetable page. If you use the lake boat in summer, allow more time: it is slower, but it arrives in the middle of the scenery.
From Lucerne and Zurich
From Lucerne the Brünig line climbs over the pass to Meiringen, then down to Brienz. We did not verify the journey time here, so confirm it on sbb.ch. From Zurich you usually change at Lucerne or Interlaken. A day trip with transport arranged can be easier if you do not want to plan connections.
By car
Brienz is on the main road along the lake. The railway lists paid parking near the valley station, signposted, at CHF 8 per full day (checked November 2026), plus free long-term coach parking opposite the boat station. Parking near the station fills quickly on summer weekends, so arriving by train removes that worry.
Combine it with the lake. Take the train out and the boat back, or the reverse, so you see both. The boats run in the summer season only, so check the dates when you plan.
Getting around on arrival
The village is compact. The valley station of the Rothorn railway is by the Zentralbahn station, and the old village street is a short walk away; see Brienz village. If you are staying overnight, our where to stay page has a live map.
Planning to stay overnight? Compare rooms in Brienz.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from Interlaken to Brienz?
Around 20 minutes from Interlaken Ost on the Zentralbahn. Aggregators list between 17 and 22 minutes depending on the departure.
Can I get to Brienz from Lucerne by train?
Yes. Brienz is on the Zentralbahn Brünig line between Lucerne and Interlaken. We did not check the exact duration, so look it up on sbb.ch.
Where do I park for the Brienz Rothorn Bahn?
The operator lists paid parking near the Brienz valley station, signposted, at CHF 8 per full day, and free long-term coach parking opposite the boat station.
Do I need a car?
No. Brienz has a station on the main Interlaken to Lucerne line, and the Rothorn railway starts by the village.
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