Reichenbach Falls Tours

Reichenbach Falls which includes a waterfall


Immortalized in a Sherlock Holmes novel, these falls in Bern are as dramatic and memorable as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s ingenious detective.

The famous fictional detective Sherlock Holmes faked his death at the top of Reichenbach Falls. Even if you’re not a fan of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s books, you’ll find these 394-foot-high (120-meter) falls a remarkable sight. Visit Reichenbach Falls, nestled in some of central Switzerland’s most beautiful scenery, in the canton of Bern.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a regular visitor to the area. He chose Reichenbach Falls as the setting for the climactic final scene in The Final Problem. Following a fight on a ledge overlooking the falls, Sherlock Holmes and his nemesis Professor Moriarty apparently both plummet to their deaths.

A great way to experience the falls is via the Reichenbachfall funicular. The cable car station is located about a 20-minute walk outside of Meiringen. From here, the funicular takes you up the valley to the lower part of the falls. Get out and make a short hike to the top of the falls.

Look for the ledge that Holmes and Moriarty fell from. From the funicular’s viewing platform, try to spot a star painted on the cliffs marking the ledge. To get closer, hike down the other side of the falls to the marked path. A plaque denotes the fatal spot.

The area is open from May through October. In spring the falls are the most dramatic with strong flow from melting snow from nearby mountains.

The funicular has a fee. Arrive early. Tickets are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis and they tend to go quickly in summer.

Reichenbach Falls are 1.5 hours from Bern and 3.5 hours from Geneva by train. If you drive, use the car park at the foot of the falls. After your visit, explore Meiringen. Look for homages to Sherlock Holmes throughout the town, including a small museum and a statue of the detective. This town first became famous as the birthplace of meringues. Sample one of the airy desserts while you’re here.

Plan a trip to see Reichenbach Falls

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Moxy Rapperswil
Romantik Hotel Beau Rivage
Grand Hotel Belvedere, a Beaumier Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Reichenbach Falls

Hotel Rebstock

Hotel Rebstock

3 out of 5
Bahnhofstrasse 21, Meiringen
Hotel Rebstock
Das Hotel Sherlock Holmes

Das Hotel Sherlock Holmes

3 out of 5
3 Alpbachallee, Meiringen, BE
Das Hotel Sherlock Holmes
Spring Inn Apartments

Spring Inn Apartments

3.5 out of 5
87G Aareschluchtstrasse, Schattenhalb, BE
Spring Inn Apartments
Holiday apartment Schattenhalb for 1 - 10 persons with 4 bedrooms - Holiday apartment in one or mult

Holiday apartment Schattenhalb for 1 - 10 persons with 4 bedrooms - Holiday apartment in one or mult

Schattenhalb
Holiday apartment Schattenhalb for 1 - 10 persons with 4 bedrooms - Holiday apartment in one or mult
Holiday apartment Schattenhalb for 1 - 6 persons with 2 bedrooms - Holiday apartment

Holiday apartment Schattenhalb for 1 - 6 persons with 2 bedrooms - Holiday apartment

Schattenhalb
Holiday apartment Schattenhalb for 1 - 6 persons with 2 bedrooms - Holiday apartment
Victoria - Alpine Boutique Hotel & Fine Dining

Victoria - Alpine Boutique Hotel & Fine Dining

4 out of 5
Bahnhofplatz 9, Meiringen, BE
Victoria - Alpine Boutique Hotel & Fine Dining
Hotel Dakota

Hotel Dakota

4 out of 5
Amthausgasse 2, Meiringen
Hotel Dakota
Parkhotel du Sauvage

Parkhotel du Sauvage

4 out of 5
30 Bahnhofstrasse, Meiringen, BE
Parkhotel du Sauvage
SWISSPEAK Resorts Meiringen by Interhome

SWISSPEAK Resorts Meiringen by Interhome

Meiringen
SWISSPEAK Resorts Meiringen by Interhome
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Reichenbach Falls

At Reichenbach Falls, you can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking trails that offer breathtaking views, an exciting funicular ride up to the falls, and opportunities for skiing, canoeing, and rock climbing nearby. For accommodation, there are hotels conveniently located near the funicular, making it easy to access the stunning natural attractions in the area.

Shopping

For a unique shopping experience in Reichenbach Falls, explore local shops and boutiques. If you're up for a drive, Hertensteinstrasse offers a vibrant shopping area 24 miles away, perfect for a family outing with a mix of city vibes and charming local businesses.

Recreation

Experience family-friendly fun at Sportzentrum Grindelwald, an aquatic center 9 miles from Reichenbach Falls, featuring pools and recreational activities. For a blend of sports and outdoor vibes, head to Fluehli-Soerenberg Golf Club, located 13 miles away, or enjoy a refreshing swim at Aquacenter Obwalden, also 13 miles away.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Meiringen-Hasliberg Cable Car, located 1 mile from Reichenbach Falls, offering stunning views and family-friendly adventure. For a unique ride, try the Gelmer Funicular, 9 miles away, or the Grindelwald Grund Gondola, 10 miles away, perfect for skiing and outdoor thrills.

Nightlife

In Reichenbach Falls, the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory offers stunning night sky views, creating an enchanting atmosphere. For thrill-seekers, Jungfrau Park provides an exhilarating arcade adventure. Meanwhile, Tell-Spiele theater combines culture and romance, perfect for a cozy family night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Reichenbach Falls

Reichenbach Falls, located in Schattenhalb, Canton of Bern, offers breathtaking scenery and thrilling outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the stunning waterfall itself, the Reichenbach Falls funicular, and nearby lakes and mountains. This picturesque destination caters to those seeking adventure and beautiful views, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to discover nearby sights and attractions that enhance your experience at this iconic Swiss landmark.

  • Lake Brienz: Located 10 miles from Reichenbach Falls, Lake Brienz offers stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Enjoy romantic beach vibes while taking in the breathtaking turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming or picnicking.
  • Aare Gorge: Just 1 mile away, Aare Gorge is a dramatic canyon that provides an adventurous escape. Walk along the pathways carved into the rock, enjoying the awe-inspiring views and the rush of the river below.
  • Ballenberg Open Air Museum: Situated 5 miles from Reichenbach Falls, this cultural gem showcases traditional Swiss architecture and rural life. Wander through the open-air exhibits and experience the rich heritage of Switzerland.

Best time to go to Reichenbach Falls

The best time to visit Reichenbach Falls is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.1°F (-2.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
February28.2°F (-2.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March33.6°F (0.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
April40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
May47.7°F (8.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June56.8°F (13.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July60.3°F (15.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August59.9°F (15.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
October45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November36.5°F (2.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December29.7°F (-1.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Reichenbach Falls

To save money on your trip to Reichenbach Falls, visit during the cheaper months of March to April or November, and book your hotel about a month in advance. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Tuesdays, when rates are typically lower. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package for added savings, and consider joining their One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for affordable, eco-friendly hotels and look for refundable room reservations to maintain flexibility.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Reichenbach Falls are March to April and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Reichenbach Falls is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Reichenbach Falls is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Reichenbach Falls is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can organize your results by price to see the most affordable hotels at the top of your list. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Reichenbach Falls with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia