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Interlaken is your starting point for unforgettable excursions to the Bernese Oberland and a world leader in adventure sports. Lakes, mountain villages and the Bernese Alps with their glaciers await you here – all accessible all year round by rail, road and mountain railway.

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This is interlaken, discover interlaken, lakes thun and brienz, adventure sports in the interlaken region, around interlaken, experience interlaken for less.

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The picnic and paraglider meadow

Harder Kulm - Top of Interlaken

Interlaken’s mountain with panoramic view

Schynige Platte

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Jungfraujoch

Wonderland of ice, snow and rock

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Stalactite caves high above Lake Thun

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Experiences & Activities

Lake brienz gastro tour, quality and tradition – a perfect combination.

Raclette rafting

Kleine scheidegg, canyoning for beginners, jungfraujoch - top of europe, all-weather toboggan run at heimwehfluh, photo spot st. beatus caves, jetboat scenic ride, hotel chalet swiss 3 stars.

Interlaken, Bern Region

THE HEY HOTEL 4 Stars

1 Night, Price per double room

from CHF 274

Jugendherberge Interlaken

Backpackers villa sonnenhof.

from CHF 108

Carlton-Europe Vintage Adults Hotel 4 Stars

Victoria-jungfrau grand hotel & spa 5 stars.

from CHF 714

Hotel Derby Interlaken - Action & Relax Hub 3 Stars

Essential by dorint interlaken, hotel beausite 3 stars, hotel harder-minerva, current offers, belvédère strandhotel, spiez romantic stay.

Price per double room valid: 28.06.2024 - 31.10.2024

BEATUS Wellness- & Spa-Hotel, Merligen Wellness by the lake

Price per person in double room valid: 28.06.2024 - 31.08.2024

Faulensee Mini gorge experience in Saas-Fee

valid: 28.06.2024 - 15.10.2024

Hotel Landgasthof Kemmeriboden-Bad, Schangnau Bumbach Unique biking experience

Price per person/package valid: 28.06.2024 - 01.08.2024

Eiger Lodge, Grindelwald Unique biking experience

Price per person in double room valid: 28.06.2024 - 30.06.2024

Faulensee My first 4,000

Hotel landgasthof kemmeriboden-bad, schangnau bumbach walking through fantastic natural surroundings.

Price per person/package valid: 28.06.2024 - 31.08.2024

Hotel Eden Spiez, Spiez Relaxing offer

Price per person in double room valid: 28.06.2024 - 31.10.2024

Faulensee Gorge Alpine via ferrata in Saas-Fee

Hotel eden spiez, spiez wellness by the lake.

Price per double room valid: 28.06.2024 - 31.08.2024

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Scheidegg Hotels: Bellevue des Alpes

Ristorante e pizzeria sapori, la terrasse brasserie, chalet beizli, restaurant bab alhara, tom-yum-kung, grand café-restaurant schuh, restaurant brauistübli, salzano hotel - spa - restaurant, topoff restaurant.

• From 28 Jun International Trucker & Country Festival 2023 Interlaken, 28.06. - 30.06.2024
• From 26 Jul 19th International Jugglers' Festival Interlaken Interlaken, 26.07. - 28.07.2024
• 1 Aug August 1 - National Day 2024 in Interlaken Interlaken, 01.08.2024
• until 3 Nov Funfair Interlaken 2024 Interlaken, 07.04, 03.11.2024

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Discover Bern Region

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Interlaken

Written by Joni Sweet and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Interlaken is a fantastic base for seeing the best of central Switzerland's magnificent scenery while enjoying the comforts of a chic lakeside resort. Tourist attractions are all around it, with boat tours on Lakes Thun and Brienz at either side of the town and thrilling train and funicular rides to the spectacular surrounding mountain peaks.

Interlaken is one of the oldest, best known, and most popular summer holiday resorts in Switzerland. The first visitors arrived in the 17th century, and as transport facilities improved with the coming of the railroad, boat services on the lakes, and most recently the expressway, Interlaken became the major tourist center of the Bernese Oberland.

Day or night, you'll find plenty of things to do in and around Interlaken. Along with the almost endless variety of walks, climbs, and outdoor excursions, there are many other sports available for active travelers. On the right bank of the Aare, opposite the Kursaal, is a swimming pool, and visitors will find a golf course in Unterseen, as well as sailing and windsurfing on the lakes, paragliding, horseback riding, and tennis.

Above all, Interlaken is a perfect base for exploring the region and its spectacular mountains. You'll have no trouble finding places to visit using this handy list of the top attractions and things to do in Interlaken.

See also: Where to Stay in Interlaken

1. Harder Kulm

2. höhematte park & the höheweg, 3. hike the schynige platte trails, 4. cross the panoramabrücke sigriswil (sigriswil panorama bridge), 5. st. beatus caves and waterfalls, 6. unterseen, 7. paragliding, 8. swiss open-air museum ballenberg, 9. cruise on lake thun, 10. kayak on lake brienz, 11. giessbach falls, 12. niederhorn, 13. ride the historic brienzer-rothorn railway, 14. tourismuseum (museum of tourism), 15. walk to unspunnen castle, 16. interlaken monastery and castle, 17. day trip to jungfraujoch (top of europe), where to stay in interlaken for sightseeing, interlaken, switzerland - climate chart.

After making the journey to Interlaken, stretch your legs out on the Harder —a 1,322-meter mountain that overlooks the resort town and its sparkling lakes.

It's possible to hike to the summit via a steep path from the Harderbahn station, but unless you're an avid trekker, you might be better off saving your energy and zipping to the Harder Kulm station on a century-old funicular in just 10 minutes. The near-vertical railway incline will make you appreciate you took the ride instead of hoofing up on foot.

From there, you can start your walk on a short, uphill brick path with magnificent views of the scenery. It's hard not to smile when you see the whimsical wooden statues of people yodeling in traditional mountain garb and waving the red-and-white Swiss flags that flank the walkway. Plus, they make postcard-worthy photo subjects.

At the end of the brick path, bear right to begin the Harder Kulm Circular Path . The hour-long hike takes you through a shady mountain forest, where morning mist hovering over the moss and leaves creates a dreamy atmosphere. The trail eventually opens up to an expansive panorama of Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, and the Alps, before taking you back to the trailhead. It's the perfect introduction to the "Adventure Capital of Europe."

It's worth taking the hike shortly before lunchtime because the trail drops you off right in front of the castle-like Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant , where you can fuel up with cheese fondue, potato rosti, grilled meats, and Alpine-style macaroni.

From here, you can also stand atop the Zwei-Seen-Steg (Two Lakes Bridge) viewing platform and snap the perfect Interlaken selfie. Don't just look out, though—look down as well. The glass-bottomed floor will give you another vantage of the lakes below.

Want to see some of the local animals who make this landscape their home? Swing by the Alpine Wildlife Park near the base of their Harderbahn. The free zoo gives tourists the chance to get up close to stately ibex and fuzzy marmots.

An area of 14 hectares in the heart of Interlaken that belonged to the Augustinian convent was acquired in 1860 by a group of 37 hotel owners and private citizens to be left as an open space, a remarkable example of farseeing town planning.

Through its length runs the Höheweg, a splendid avenue between the east and west rail stations that affords a magnificent view of the Jungfrau , surrounded by hotels and flower beds. Alongside it is the Kursaal , with a theater and a café and beautiful gardens with a flower clock, as well as a number of hotels, including the 150-year-old Victoria Jungfrau Hotel , itself a local landmark.

Next to the Hotel Interlaken, you'll find the small Garden of Friendship , the first Japanese garden in Switzerland, a peaceful spot with flowering plants, water, and koi carp. The garden was a gift from Interlaken's Japanese sister city, Ōtsu.

The park is the preferred landing spot for hang gliders —one of the most popular of the many adventures you can enjoy in Interlaken. For the less adventurous, horse-drawn carriages park along the street in front of the park.

In the winter, the Höhematte transforms into Ice Magic , with five rinks connected by ice ramps. Rinks are for all levels of skater, with an ice-skating rink that's comfortable for beginners, but with plenty of space for faster skaters and a curling rink where you can try your hand at this sport that's very popular in Switzerland.

From Wilderswil, a five-minute walk from the Interlaken Ost railway station, you can take a rack-railroad that has been carrying sightseers up to the Schynige Platte—a mountain flank that gets its name from its reflective wall of slate—since it opened in 1893. The hour-long ride is a series of ever-changing Alpine panoramas, and at the top, you'll find one of the finest panoramic views of the Alps, encompassing the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks as well as Lake Thun.

The views get even better from the trails that begin at the top. The easiest of these, with a succession of spectacular views, is the 45-minute hike to the Daube Viewpoint . Lake Thun lies far below, surrounded by snowcapped peaks. Take a picnic and savor the moment before continuing the rest of the loop, bringing you back to the Schynige Platte station.

The Oberburghorn Trail continues from the Daube Viewpoint, making an even longer -- about three-kilometer - loop along a mountain ridge with 360-degree views. This easy-to-moderate trail is fairly level, and the views are even better than the shorter loop. There's a steep wooden staircase to the viewpoint at the very top, well worth the climb. A third loop, the Loucherhorn Trail , adds about three kilometers and more views, circling a bit lower past green Alpine meadows and grazing Brown Swiss cows.

Near the station is a beautiful Alpine Botanic Garden , with 600 species of flowers and other plants that can survive and thrive in this high-altitude environment. It puts 720 individual plants on display in 16 distinct habitats, ranging from lime-free soils and windy corners to little snowy valleys. If you're lucky there may be locals playing traditional Swiss Alphorns at the Schynige Platte station.

The view down into the Gummischlucht gorge, 182 meters (600 feet) below, as you cross the new suspension footbridge is one you won't forget. The bridge above Lake Thun is 330 meters (more than 1,000 feet) long, and is one of three suspension bridges on the popular Lake Thun Panoramic Circular Trail connecting mountain and shoreline paths around the lake.

Panoramic views from the bridge and trail include the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, and surrounding peaks of the Bernese Alps. The villages of Sigriswil and Aeschlen, at either end of the suspension bridge, are both charming places to visit, as well.

There's a lovely farm stand just over the bridge in Sigriswil, where you can pick up local snacks and fresh produce for a picnic.

More than one kilometer of walkways lead through the chambers and passageways of the hillside St. Beatus Caves , where legend holds that a dragon took shelter when hunted by the monk, Beatus, whose hermitage was nearby.

But the geology is no legend, and you can tour these underground caverns to see mirror lakes, underground waterfalls, stalactites, and stalagmites accompanied by a guide or at your own speed using a descriptive app. The entire area is quite beautiful, with a series of waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.

You can get here by bus from Interlaken (it's about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop) or by boat from Interlaken West station, but it's quite a steep climb from the lake to the caves.

St. Beatus Caves regularly hosts interesting events, like concerts and candlelit raclette dinners, so check the calendar to see what's coming up during your trip.

Address: Sundlauenen, Interlaken

The Marktgasse runs northwest from the Interlaken post office and across the Spielmatten islands and the river to the little hamlet of Unterseen, at the foot of Mt. Harder. This is one of several villages that form Interlaken, and in this old part of town is the 1471 parish church, with a Late Gothic tower.

In this neighborhood, you'll find some beautiful wooden chalets of the kind you'd expect to see in tiny mountain villages, not in a busy resort center like Interlaken. Set in green gardens, these may even have farm animals grazing on the lawns. Small restaurants around the pretty Stadthausplatz serve traditional Swiss dishes.

You won't be in Interlaken long before you'll see the bright-colored parachutes of paragliders in the sky or landing in Höhematte Park. Flying through the Alpine air with a 360-degree panorama of the snow-covered Alps above the lakes and lush green meadows is an unforgettable experience. It's no wonder it is one of the most popular things to do in Interlaken.

You'll have your choice of several paragliding outfitters, and if this is your first flight, you will be paired with an experienced guide. Try a Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken . Taking to the air is simple: from a mountainside slope, you simply run downhill until the wind lifts you off the ground. The mountains are all around, and Interlaken stretches below as you glide.

Those who prefer their aerial adventures a little closer to the ground can find thrills at Interlaken Ropes Park , where ziplines, swings, wooden bridges, and rope courses provide fun for families in a forest setting.

A 20-minute drive or 40-minute train ride from Interlaken is one of Europe's finest living history museums. Ballenberg spreads across 124 acres of alpine countryside in a series of village and farmstead groups representing different Swiss regions and their traditional ways of life.

Historic houses, barns, shops, and other buildings were brought here from their original sites, with their furniture, decorations, utensils, and implements. Old crafts and traditional customs are revived here, and in a visit, you may see everything from woodcarving and cooperage to lace- and cheese-making demonstrations.

The homes represent all styles from the most modest cabins and rustic farmhouses to elegant homes of the well-to-do, but the focus is on how people lived, how they produced their own goods, and how they traded and shared within their communities. Special exhibits may examine one facet of life in detail, such as child labor on farms or a particular craft and its evolution.

You could easily spend an entire day seeing all the buildings and exhibits in this fascinating look back in time. Ask at the Interlaken Tourist Office for information on packages that include boat and bus travel from Interlaken to Ballenberg.

Address: Museumsstrasse 131, Hofstetten bei Brienz

On the west side of Interlaken is Lake Thun, a long, narrow lake surrounded by mountains. The best way to explore the lake is on one of the cruise boats that operate from Interlaken year-round or in the summer on the beautifully restored historic paddle steamer.

At the western end of the lake, you can stop in Thun with its medieval Old Town and lakeside castle with a striking keep that overlooks the lake. It was built in 1191 and enlarged in 1492, and today houses a historical museum with 14th-century arms and armor, tapestries, furniture, and prehistoric and Roman artifacts.

Other castles and several Romanesque churches are in villages that dot the shore of Lake Thun. Schloss Shadau , easy to spot right on the water, is a smaller replica of Chateau Azay-le-Rideau, on the Loire in France.

On Interlaken's east side is Lake Brienz, a narrow body of water that's really an enlargement of the valley of the River Aare. Lying between the limestone ridge of the Brienzer Grat and the Faulhorn mountains, it is seven meters higher than Lake Thun, on Interlaken's west side.

Like Lake Thun, Brienz is popular with boaters of all sorts, and you can rent kayaks, row boats, and pedalos to explore the lakes on your own. Or you can see the lake from one of the five boats that connect Interlaken to towns around its wooded shores.

The most atmospheric of these boats is the restored steamer the Lötschberg, built in 1914; other boats offer special dining cruises with Swiss food specialties.

To reach Giessbach Falls, take the Lake Brienz boat to the Giessbach See landing stage and either climb for about 20 minutes or take the oldest funicular railway in Europe. The Giessbach tumbles down the beautifully wooded hillside to the lake from a height of 500 meters, in a series of 14 falls over successive rock ridges.

The best view is from the terrace in front of the historic Grand Hotel Giessbach, about 100 meters above the lake. There are footpaths up both banks to the highest of the three bridges, where the stream emerges from a narrow gorge and plunges into a rock basin 60 meters deep.

From the town of Beatenberg, a short bus ride from Interlaken, you can reach one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Bernese Oberland (which has plenty of them to offer). A cable car takes you up to a halfway station, where a funicular continues up the Niederhorn to a restaurant and view across Lake Thun and the Alps.

Along with its scenery, the Niederhorn is known especially for its nature and wildlife. It's home to ibex, marmots, mountain goats, golden eagles, deer, and even the rare cuckoo. Weekly wildlife tours guided by a local wild animal specialist include visiting wild ibex colonies. You can rent unique stand-up scooter-type bicycles for the descent, and the Niederhorn is a favorite place for hang gliding, as well.

The lakeside town of Brienz is the center of the Oberland craft of woodcarving, examples of which you can see in shops and studios and on houses with beautifully carved friezes on the facades. Above the town rises the 2,350-meter Brienzer Rothorn, reached in about an hour via Switzerland's oldest steam rack railway, the Brienz-Rothorn Railway .

From the top are views of the Appenzell, Uri, Engelberg, Berne, and Valais Alps extending from Säntis to the Diablerets. Wear hiking boots, and you can take a four-hour hike to the Brünig Pass , returning to Brienz by the Brünigbahn . Built in 1888, this is the smallest rack-and-pinion railroad of the Swiss network.

The history of tourism in the Jungfrau Region is shown at the Tourismuseum in three floors of exhibits that cover everything from early transport and hotels to travel clothing and skiing. Housed in a lovely restored 17th-century timbered house, the museum includes models of early postal coaches, rack railway locomotives, bicycles, and lake steamers, as well as actual historical carriages and vehicles.

Exhibits also use historical photos and art to show how tiny, often remote villages were able to develop and thrive by attracting tourists to experience their landscapes, folk traditions, geological wonders, and even local flora and fauna. Many of the exhibits are labeled in English.

Address: Obere Gasse 26, Unterseen, Interlaken

An easy walk of about 1.5 kilometers from Wilderswil train station, and only about three kilometers from central Interlaken, is the romantic ruin of Unspunnen Castle. Its history is recorded back to the early 1200s, and although its builder is unknown, it was the center of a baronial fief in the 13th and 14th centuries.

Along with the nearby Rothenfluh, Unspunnen guarded the medieval Lütschinenbrücke bridge at Gsteig. Some sources hold that these ruins inspired Lord Byron to write his poem Manfred , and it is true that much of it was written during his travels through the Bernese Alps in September of 1816.

You can walk on to Rothenfluh Castle , which was built into the side of a cliff. There is very little left of it, but signboards explaining its history are in English.

Interlaken's former Augustinian monastery dates to the 12th century. You can see the 14th-century bell tower along with a Gothic cloister and remains of a chapel dating from 1452. Notice especially the variety of window designs in the castle church.

Before the property was turned over to the state in the 16th century during the Protestant Reformation, the monastery was an important hostel for pilgrims headed to the former hermitage of Saint Beatus, believed to have been in the caves above Lake Thun. These caves were a stop for pilgrims on the Way of St. James , known in Switzerland as the Jakobsweg, leading to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Interlaken is just a short ride away from one of Switzerland's top attractions , Top of Europe (also called Jungfraujoch). Take the 45-minute train ride to Grindelwald (or opt for the Jungfruajoch Top of Europe Day Trip from Interlaken Tour ) to hop on the Eiger Express, a highly sustainable tricable gondola that opened in late 2020, to make your way to the highest railway station in Europe.

At the top, you can step out onto a snowy expanse more than 3,450 meters above sea level and gaze out upon the magnificent Swiss Alps and the Aletsch Glacier, just as tourists have done since the railway station opened in 1912.

Between the thin air and the awe-striking vistas, it's a dizzying experience that will stick with you. Don't miss out on other things to do at the Jungfraujoch, including slipping your way through the Ice Palace , which is frozen from floor to ceiling and filled with ice sculptures; and seeing the museum-like exhibitions on how miners built this railway using relatively simple handheld tools more than a century ago.

The best place to stay in Interlaken is along the Höheweg, the avenue that runs through expansive green space and connects Interlaken's East and West train stations. Many of the best hotels lie along this lovely stretch, which offers beautiful views of the Jungfrau. Within walking distance of the town of Interlaken, over a bridge across the Aare River, the little village of Unterseen also makes a popular base. Here are some highly-rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• In a prime position on the beautiful Höheweg and a short walk from Interlaken East train station and the town center, Hotel Royal St. Georges Interlaken - MGallery Collection occupies a beautiful old building.
• A lovingly preserved 1897 villa set in a romantic garden and stylishly decorated with a mix of antique, modern and contemporary furniture and artworks, Maison Bergdorf is a six-minute walk from the Höhematte and several restaurants.
• In Unterseen, a seven-minute walk from Interlaken West train station, Hotel Goldey is known for its friendly staff and lovely setting on the River Aare. Breakfast and parking are included in the rates.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the center of town and equidistant from two lake stations Hapimag Resort Interlaken has spacious rooms with large balconies and views of the Alps. Especially good for families traveling with children are the two-room suites, and the pool with water jets and a slide.
• On the Höheweg, the Hotel Interlaken sits a short walk from Interlaken East train station and the town center and offers cozy guest rooms behind its charming green-shuttered facade. Breakfast and parking are included.

Budget Hotels:

• Also on the Höheweg, the Art Nouveau-style Carlton-Europe Hotel is a short stroll away from Interlaken East train station, as well as many restaurants.
• Hotel Chalet Swiss in Unterseen is a few minutes' walk from Interlaken West station and close to several restaurants. Relax in the sauna/hot tub or explore Interlaken on the complimentary bicycles.
• Also in Unterseen, Hotel Roessli has helpful staff and clean, comfortable rooms, as well as complimentary breakfast and parking.

More on Switzerland

Things to do in Interlaken: 13 best Attractions

If you want to experience the heart of what Switzerland has to offer in terms of magnificent scenery, Interlaken is an excellent place to begin your journey with. Nestled neatly between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the Bernese Highlands, this spectacular town is surrounded by spectacular views wherever you look. 

To make it an all-around perfect destination, Interlaken is a haven for explorers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. From thrilling train rides and paragliding to adventurous trips to the waterfalls and the different hiking trails, there is no shortage of things you can do here. 

Whether you are visiting Switzerland for the first time or the 10 th , including Interlaken in your travel plans can do you no wrong. 

In this comprehensive guide to Interlaken, you will find the 13 best tourist attractions in this beautiful city to help you get the most out of your visit.

About Interlaken

With a central location in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, Interlaken is one of the oldest and best-known cities in the country, with tourists as well as Swiss locals flocking to the area.

It is located in the alluvial land of Bödeli between the lakes of Thun and Brienz, and alongside the Aare River that flows between them. In fact, the term “Interlaken” translates to “between lakes.” 

With plenty of mountain excursions at its core, Interlaken is home to the famous mountains of Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger. But the beautiful scenery is just one of the numerous amazing aspects of this great city. 

Blooming with an endless variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, canyoning, and most recently the expressway, Interlaken is one of those cities where you will always have something to do whether it’s day or night.

While the town itself is located in the plains, Interlaken is encompassed by the Bernese Alps from where you can easily view the famous Jungfrau peaks. 

Probably one of the best reasons why Interlaken serves as a great base for tourists to start with is due to its location. It is ideal for people who want to explore as much as they can without traveling long distances. Unlike many villages situated in or around mountains, Interlaken is not isolated. 

It has two main railway stations that cover a large region. You would have absolutely no difficulty reaching all the stunning neighboring locations. In fact, if you make it a day trip, you will be able to travel to fairly far-off locations  and come back in time as well. 

You might think that a town as nature-bound as Interlaken won’t provide the buzz of city life. However, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Interlaken is, in fact, a lively town with a wide array of shops, restaurants, and hotels containing world-class facilities. One would be remiss if they didn’t make the most out of this great city!

Things to do in Interlaken: Attractions and Activities

1. harder kulm.

Situated at an elevation of 1,322 meters, Harder Kulm is basically Interlakens “Home Mountain”. Standing above it, you will be able to experience the spell-binding views of the Bernese Alps, such as Jungfrau and Eiger, and the two surrounding lakes. 

Once at the top, you will also see an Art Nouveau-style building which is the Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant as it provides panoramic views of the surrounding areas. In addition, there is also a children’s playground, the Two Lakes Bridge, and several walking trails. 

How to Get to the Top

The mountain is easily accessible with a funicular that is located a short 5-minute walk from the Interlaken Ost Station. It will only take you mere 10 minutes to go from the plains to the summit via the funicular. In that short span, you will be able to climb more than 700 meters, allowing you to experience the stunning views before your eyes.

If you are the hiking type, it would take you no more than 2 hours to reach the heights of Harder Kulm. You can also opt to go up through a cable car during the summers, allowing you to take in the stunning sunset if you time it just right.

Returning Downwards

You can return from the Harder Kulm mountain via the Hardermannli lookout pavilion and the Hohbühl pavilion. Ensure to give the Harder Alpine Wildlife Park a quick visit to see the marmots and ibexes, with the latter being a beautiful mountain animal that was successfully reintroduced after extinction in this wildlife park.

2. Discover Interlaken and the Höhenmatte

Located centrally in Interlaken, Höhenmatte is a lush green park that offers impressive views to the Jungfraujoch while you stroll along it. It provides you with the perfect canvas to sit and have a relaxing day with your near and dear ones. 

Höhenmate serves as a connection between the Interlaken West and Interlaken East – both railway stations that afford you splendid scenery of the Jungfrau mountain decorated with quaint hotels and flowerbeds along its curves.

You will also find the Kursaal along Hohenmatte, which is a theater and a café accompanied by beautiful gardens. 

Furthermore, there are various hotels here, including the vintage Victoria Jungfrau Hotel that dates back 150 years and serves as a popular Swiss landmark. 

Along with the views, you can also fulfill your touristy desires to the fullest at Interlaken by getting your hands on Swiss souvenirs, chocolates, and much more in one of the many shops that the town features.  

Höhenmatte is also where you can enjoy one of the most popular adventures of Interlaken: paragliding. If, however, you appreciate the serene things in life, a horse-drawn carriage can take you along the streets of the park. 

If you visit during the winters, you will find an ice-skating rink called here “Ice Magic” that is ideal for both novice and expert skaters alike.

3. Heimwehfluh, Toboggan Run and the Rope Park

Another prominent attraction in Interlaken, that you should ensure not to miss, is the Heimwehfluh. 

Similar to Harder Kulm, Heimwehfluh can also be accessed via either a cable car or a funicular. The Heimwehfluh funicular has a significant history attached to it, with the railway car functioning since 1906. 

Only taking about 4 minutes to reach about 662 meters high, the funicular affords you plenty of entertainment once you reach the top. To accompany the great views, you can have great food at the panoramic restaurant above. There is also a children’s playground, and a toboggan run. 

While there, don’t forget to visit the High Ropes Adventure Park. With wooden bridges, ziplines, and Tarzan swings, this park is a must-visit for adults and children alike. The best part is, you won’t have to worry about the safety of you and your loved ones as ample care is taken by the staff to ensure nothing goes wrong. All you have to do is loosen up and let the fun begin!

4. Visit Unterseen

When you’re done with the exhilarating activities of the mountains, you can unwind by seeking out a much more relaxing experience in the medieval town of Unterseen.

Situated across the Aare River, Unterseen is a suburb of Interlaken. The quiet town consists of an old marketplace – known as Marktbrunnen – where you will find the rustic church building dating back to the 13 th century in addition to the Stadthaus. 

If you are a history buff, there is also a museum that you can pay a visit to that outlines the growth of Interlaken throughout the centuries. While taking a stroll, grab a bite at any one of the local bakeries or enjoy traditional Swiss dishes at any one of the quaint restaurants in Stadthauspatz. 

One of the significances of Unterseen is its charming wooden chalets that seem pleasantly out of place in a busy tourist place like the Interlaken. Surrounded by lush green gardens, you may even find farm animals having a grave on the lawns around these chalets. 

5. Fall in love with Lake Thun

One of the best things to do in Interlaken is to visit the mesmerizing lakes it is surrounded by, one of which is Lake Thun. Having one look at this lake, you will likely be left speechless by its stunning beauty and impressive color. 

At Lake Thun, you can engage in water activities, go on a boat cruise, or simply take a stroll along the beautiful lake. Our suggestion is to explore the lake by taking a cruise boat or opt for the historic paddle steamer if you like.

The east shore of Lake Thun gives you a chance to get away from central tourist spots and enjoy some quiet time to yourself. You won’t find many people visiting this side of the lake, allowing you to take a walk along the wooden walkway and admire the nature around you. 

At the west shore, you can stop in Thun and take a look at the lakeside castle. Built in 1191, this castle now houses a historical museum.

While here, don’t forget to visit one of the top attractions – the Weissenau Nature Reserve, which provides views of the Mönch, Jungfrau, and Eiger.

6. Discover the St. Beatus Cave and Waterfalls

Somewhat elevated above Lake Thun are the St. Beatus caves, which are just waiting to be discovered. A network of more than a kilometer of footpaths winds through various caverns and provides a view of underground streams, stalagmites and stalactites. Legend has it that a dragon lived there and was slain by the nearby monk Beatus. 

You can reach the caves by bus from Interlaken or by boat. From the lake it is a steep walk to the caves, but you can always enjoy beautiful views. From the bus station you can reach them in 10 minutes on foot. 

7. See Lake Brienz, Iseltwald and the Giessbach Falls

With its unique turquoise colored water (because it is fed mainly by sediment-laden glacier water), Lake Brienz is a feast for the eyes, especially on sunny days. The best thing to do is to make a short round trip on one of the many different course boats. The most impressive is probably the restored steamship “lötschberg”. With this, you can visit the small lakeside village of Iseltwald in style and enjoy freshly caught fish against an impressive backdrop.

Then hike along the lakeshore through fairytale forests towards the Giessbach Falls. If you have eaten a little too much, you can of course hop on a boat again and travel to the landing stage “Giessbach See” and from there reach the Giessbach Falls on foot or by funicular. The waterfalls can be explored on various hiking trails and bridges, one trail even leads behind the Giessbach Falls. Once you have discovered everything, it is best to end the day on the terrace of the impressive Historic Grandhotel Giessbach. From there you have a magnificent view of the waterfalls, Lake Brienz and in summer you can enjoy the sunset with a cool drink. 

8. Enjoy the outdoors sports capital of Europe, Interlaken

Interlaken is considered by many to be the outdoor sports capital of Europe– and rightfully so! Here are some of the best things you can do here:

Paragliding

Interlaken is arguably the best destination to go paragliding, especially if you are a beginner. While paragliding in Interlaken , you would be able to enjoy the amazing mountain views from the sky, giving you a sensation that is hard to beat.

You can also skydive at Interlaken. Given the spectacular views the town affords you, it only makes sense to skydive here. You can either jump from a plane or a helicopter – whatever tickles your fancy.

Kayaking 

Adding to the long list of outdoor sports in Interlaken, you can also test yourself against the rapids, thanks to the many lakes and rivers here. 

You will have an experienced instructor to guide you along the thrilling ride. However, that does not take away from the exhilarating experience of riding the currents.

Canyoning 

If you like more of a challenge, canyoning might be the ideal activity for you! You would be hard-pressed to find an activity that is as exciting as sliding down the impressive waterfalls of Switzerland and plunging into the icy pools. 

Boat Riding

Interlaken is a water-loving individual’s dream. Another great outdoors water activity here is the action-packed jet boat ride. Cruising across Lake Brienz, these boat rides last anywhere from 35 to 75 minutes.

Rest assured, your heart would be racing as you make your way across the highs and lows of the blue water before you. 

Rope Swinging

In Switzerland, you can experience new heights of beauty – both literally and metaphorically. To satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you, we suggest going to the Grindelwald Canyon Swing ­– considered by many as the world’s scariest swing.

You will start off with a platform that is 90 meters high, swinging towards a glacial river below with only a rope attached to you. The best (for some, the worst) part? You will be traveling at a speed of about 120 kilometers per hour, giving you an adrenaline rush like never before!

9. Explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley

The Lauterbrunnen valley floor only stands at about 800 meters with 4,158 meters of Jungfrau stretching directly above it. This staggering 3358 meter (11’000 feet) difference and the huge rock walls that rise up hundreds of meters and surround the valley, both contribute to the impressive scenery and make it one of the most beautiful valleys in Switzerland. Some even call it the small Yosemite Valley of Switzerland.

The Lauterbrunnen valley features over 72 waterfalls, for which it is famous, a place you have to see to believe it.

Mountain Excursions near Interlaken

Probably the only downside that comes with visiting Interlaken is deciding which beautiful mountain to visit first. Every mountain is unique in its own right and brings with it something special. 

To make it a little easier for yourself, read on below to get a brief summary of the most popular mountain excursions of the region.

10. Reach the Top of Europe – Jungfraujoch

A trip to the Jungfrau region would not be complete without a trip up to the Jungfraujoch. One of the most popular Swiss peaks, Jungfraujoch does definitely not disappoint.

It is situated at an altitude of 3,434 meters in the Bernese Alps. A cable car ride and cogwheel train journey can take you there in around 90 minutes. The railway track leads through the mountains of Eiger and Mönch up to the highest railway station of Europe, therefore the name “Top of Europe”.

Jungfraujoch neatly sits between the Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, in the center of the UNESCO Natural World Heritage site “Jungfrau – Aletsch – Bietschhorn.” It affords its visitors some of the most spectacular views, making the trip to the summit well worth it. 

Once at the top, there are numerous activities waiting for you to take part in. There is an ice palace, the Sphinx Observatory, shops, restaurants, and snow activities to indulge in.

11. Feel like James Bond on Piz Gloria – Schilthorn

Schilthorn is a summit 2790 meters above the ground that provides exquisite views of the Swiss Skyline ­- Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. The top is reached through cable cars or a combination of train and cable car. Doing so provides ample opportunity to get a nice view of the passing waterfalls and the jagged rock faces.

The Schilthorn peak is the place where an original 007 James Bond movie was filmed back in 1969 from where it got its name, Piz Gloria. You will find James Bond memorabilia here along with other Bond-themed activities. 

If you’re the adventurous type, take a stop at Birg while on your way to Schilthorn. You can also take a walk on the Thrill Walk, which is a 200-meter-long cliff pathway that is built into the side of the mountain range. Walking on a wire mesh is surely not something for the faint of heart!

At the base of Mount Schilthorn, in Mürren, is the Stechelberg Gondola Station through which you can reach all the way up to the Piz Gloria.

12. Hike the Schynige Platte Trails

Schynige Platte is a small mountain ridge that stands at an impressive 2,076 meters above sea level. It is one of the best attractions of Interlaken with some of the most outstanding views. 

What sets Schynige Platte apart is the contrasting viewpoints it offers on either side. 

On the one hand, you have the amazing Swiss Skyline (Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau), which doesn’t require a hike – only a funicular. On the other end, you have the views of Thun and Brienz lakes that require a short 20-minute hike from the funicular station. 

The funicular ride begins in Wilderswil, which is a 5-minute walk from the Interlaken Ost railway station. This railway runs on locomotives that date back to the 1800s. 

As you move up the Schynige Platte Trails, the views tend to get more and more stunning. If hiking, enjoy a relaxed picnic in the middle as you head up to make sure that you are able to savor the beauty around you.

13. Ride the Historic Brienzer-Rothorn Railway

Above the lakeside town of Brienz rises the 2,350-meter Brienzer-Rothorn. It can be reached by traveling on one of Switzerland’s oldest steam rack railways for an hour or so.

As you reach the top of Brienzer-Rothorn, you will witness spectacular sceneries of the Appenzell, Engelberg, Berne, Uri, and Valais Alps stretching along the Säntis to the Diablerets. 

Hikers will find this location ideal as they can engage in a 4-hour hike towards the Brünig Pass and return to Brienz via the Brünigbahn, the smallest rack-and-pinion railroad in Switzerland.

From Interlaken to Brienz, it is a 20-minute ride by train.

Where to stay in Interlaken

Apart from a vast abundance of beautiful mountains, Interlaken also calls itself home to a number of prestigious and stunning hotels. 

Actually we have a guide about the Best Hotels in Interlaken

In fact, the hotels themselves make a part of one of the best attractions in Interlaken. One of the more luxurious hotel options that you will find in this city is the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. If you are the fancy type, this would be the lodging space for you. 

Another option that you cannot go wrong with is the beautiful 4* Grandhotel Giessbach. Its not situated in Interlaken itself but at the shore of Lake Brienz about 20 minutes from Interlaken. This hotel sits at the foot of the Giessbach Waterfalls and offers views that are hard to beat in their beauty and uniqueness.

For those of you on a budget, staying at one of the many hostels in Interlaken would be a great choice. You may find that the hostels here have a higher price tag here than usual. However, considering the beauty around you, it will be quite worth it.

Another great place to stay in Interlaken is along the Höheweg, the stretch that connects the east and west train stations. You will find some of the best hotels with unbeatable views of the Jungfrau along this expanse.

How to get to Interlaken

The city is situated in the Canton of Bern towards west-central Switzerland, which makes Interlaken easy to reach from all corners of the country through transportation. 

For perspective, here are travel times from some of the major Swiss cities to Interlaken:

• Zurich to Interlaken – 120 kilometers | 1h:58 by train
• Lucerne to Interlaken – 70 kilometers | 1h:51 by train
• Bern to Interlaken – 45 kilometers | 1h by train
• Geneva to Interlaken – 216 kilometers | 2h:20 by train 

Surrounding mountainous villages are also easily accessible from Interlaken, thanks to Switzerland’s state-of-the-art railway system. Most intercity trains function from the Interlaken Ost (East) Station. 

If you do need to use the Interlaken West stations, a quick journey of 3 minutes from Interlaken Ost or a 25-minute walk is all that will be needed.

How to get around Interlaken

People without access to a car don’t have to worry about getting around in Interlaken. The public transportation in and around Interlaken is one of the best in the world with buses and trains traveling frequently and punctually. 

Often, you even get access to an Interlaken Guest Card that provides you with free bus rides within and around Interlaken. 

Interlaken’s roads and streets are well-paved, making driving safe and easy. A little caution should be practiced while driving on mountain roads. However, even the mountainous roads are wide enough to take a stop and admire the scenery before you.

I'm an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for Switzerlandical. Let's go on this adventure together as we explore Switzerland. We'll conquer epic trails, soak in jaw-dropping vistas, or stroll down a cobbled street in one of the many beautiful cities. I'll do my best to curate an unforgettable travel experience that leaves you with memories you'll cherish forever.

Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 15 Best Things to Do in Interlaken (Switzerland)

15 Best Things to Do in Interlaken (Switzerland)

Couched between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the Bernese Highlands is the fabled resort of Interlaken. With a whole network of trains, funiculars, boats, cable-cars at your disposal, Interlaken can be your springboard for journeys into the formidable Bernese Alps, ruled by three immense peaks: Jungfrau, Eiger and Mönch.

You can ride the highest railway in Europe up to Jungfraujoch to see these monsters and the Aletsch Glacier in all their majesty. And in the resort there’s a mountain of things to do like steamboat trips to waterfalls, hikes, kayaking, swimming, canyoning and even paragliding, all in front an awe-inspiring backdrop.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Interlaken :

1. Harder Kulm

Interlaken’s own mountain can be ascended in little more than ten minutes via a funicular.

In that short space of time you’ll climb more than 730 metres in a car with large windows showing the full beauty of the mountainous landscapes.

At the upper station, at an elevation of 1322 metres an exhilarating scene will be laid out before you, from Lake Brienz and Lake Thun far below to the nearby Emmental Alps and the sky-scraping Bernese Alps like Eiger and Jungrau in the distance.

The viewing platform projects over the slope and has a glass floor, and there’s also a panoramic restaurant up here in a Romantic medieval style.

2. Schynige Platte

Wilderswil on the southern fringe of Interlaken is the northern terminus for a 115-year-old rack railway that winds into the Bernese Alps.

Despite its age the Schynige Platte Railway is still one of the highest lines in Switzerland, and needless to say the vistas of peaks and mountain pasture are breathtaking.

The end goal is Schynige Platte, a ridge at 2,000 metres on the Schwarzhorn mountain.

There are ample reasons to make the trip: To come to look down on Interlaken, which seems tiny from up here, and to view mountains like Schreckhorn, the northernmost European peak over 4,000 metres.

There’s also an Alpine garden, with 650 flowering plants, another panoramic restaurant, and the ridge is the trailhead for short and long hikes to see more of Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch.

3. Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz to the east of Interlaken has a turquoise tone and mountain views.

Steamboats have been chugging across this lake since the 1830s and there’s now a small armada of five vessels from the first decades of the 20th century.

These set off for destinations around the lake, like Giessbach, site of the castle-like Grand Hotel Giessbach and a waterfall that plunges 500 metres to the lake.

The hotel is served by a funicular that goes back to 1879. And if you’re feeling fresh you could take a memorable walk or bike ride back along the southern shore of Lake Brienz in a few hours, or cross to Oberried and catch the train to Interlaken.

4. Lake Thun

In the west is Lake Thun, which has a deep blue colour and catches the prevailing breeze.

So no wonder this lake is favoured by windsurfers and sailors, while the shore, enveloped by woodland, is dotted with bathing areas to entice you in summer.

Out on the water, free of any obstruction you can bask in the superb panorama of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

This is a sight that needs to be contemplated slowly, so catch a steamboat over the lake and spend some time in Thun.

There’s much to love about this historic town, from the stately Schadau Park and Thun Castle to the cute Altstadt around a town hall from the 1500s.

5. Jungfraujoch

Interlaken Ost railway station is the departure point for a train ride of epic scope.

Amazingly, the Interlaken Line is more than 100 years old, and will lift you in stages through landscapes that almost beggar belief, up to the Jungfraujoch saddle at 3,466 metres.

This final railway station is the highest in Europe, at the culmination of a seven-kilometre tunnel through the mountain.

From there you can enter the Top of Europe Building, which overlooks the permanently frozen expanse of the Aletsch Glacier in the UNESCO Natural World Heritage property of Jungfrau – Aletsch – Bietschhorn.

There are restaurants and attractions inside, and you can then ride the elevator to the Sphinx Observatory for jaw-dropping 360° indoor and outdoor views.

6. St Beatus Caves

Right above the northeastern of Lake Thun is a karst cave system that got its name from the 6th-century Irish monk, Beatus.

He is claimed to have lived here, and according to legend ousted a dragon when he moved in.

The caves have a kilometre-long walkway, impressive chambers where you’ll come across strange concretions, dark chasms and underground waterfalls.

Also on the site is the Cave Museum, documenting the history of the caves, how they were explored in modern times and explaining their wildlife and geology.

The restaurant is in a loggia gazing out over Lake Thun and its mountain backdrop.

7. Unterseen

West of Interlaken and on the shore of Lake Thun is this pretty medieval town, which has a quieter, less touristy character.

Unterseen is essentially a suburb of Interlaken, across the Aare by Interlaken West Train Station.

On Marktbrunnen, the old market place, stands the rustic tower of a 13th-century church, as well as the Stadthaus.

Now a restaurant, this used to be the town hall, but actually started as an inn for cattle drivers in the 15th century.

Also on the square is a museum about the birth and growth of tourism in Interlaken from the 18th century on.

Amble around the streets for a while, checking out the chalets and their exaggerated eaves and calling in at local amenities like bakeries.

8. Summer Activities

Come to Interlaken from June to September and there’s a dizzying amount of things to do outside.

Top of your list should be to rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for Lake Thun or Brienz, and there are lots of companies to consult for this.

On land you might be ready for something more exciting than a simple hike.

The terrain around the lakes couldn’t be better suited to canyoning: You’ll don safety gear and a neoprene suit and rappel down waterfalls and gorges.

The sharp drops that encircle Interlaken’s lakes are a launch pad for paragliders, whose colourful chutes are a common sight in summer.

This isn’t an activity for the faint of heart but is worth every penny if you can muster the courage for a tandem flight.

This street and promenade is like the backbone of Interlaken, diagonal and parallel to the Aare as it flows from Lake Brienz to Lake Thun.

Walking in the direction of Unterseen, the left side of Höheweg has been kept free of construction.

There’s a line of flower gardens and parks like Höhematte which leaves clear views to the Bernese Alps.

And on the right side is a string of high-class hotels interspersed with boutiques, bars and cafes, as well as Interlaken’s casino.

10. Ice Magic

In winter it’s normal for towns to set up temporary ice rinks, but Interlaken goes way beyond that.

On Höheweg from the middle of December to the end of February, Ice Magic is a small world of ice.

There are five rinks at Ice Magic, all interconnected by 450 metres of ice ramps.

In the evenings you can hire a lane at the Bavarian curling rink.

Unlike the Olympic sport this game is easy to pick up and more like bowling on ice.

After a fun couple of hours zipping around the ice you can warm up with hot chocolate or mulled wine, or share fondue at the chalet-style eatery.

11. Weissenau Nature Reserve

Away from the tourist trail and souvenir shops you find a moment of peace and solitude on the east shore of Lake Thun, just outside Unterseen.

The Weissenau Nature Reserve is a wetland site blessed with sumptuous views of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Not many people make it to this corner of the lake, so when it’s warm can trail over the wooden walkway and admire the lake, birdlife and wildflowers in your own time.

The reserve also holds the ruins of Weissanau Castle, a Swiss national heritage site, dating back to the 1200s and which you can scale to survey the tree canopy and Lake Thun.

12. Justistal Alpine Dairy

Get up bright and early and take the twisting mountain road to Beatenberg for a tour of an authentic Alpine dairy.

Tours are only given first thing in the morning, starting at 07:15. You’ll strike out on an invigorating walk in the pasture to view the herd with a guide, before meeting the “dairyman”. He’ll show you behind the scenes of a real Emmental dairy, and the cheese made here will be waiting for you on the table for a communal breakfast at the end of the tour.

Visits takes place on Tuesdays from June to September, and Fridays on request.

13. Winter Sport

Now, Interlaken isn’t a ski resort per se, but its amenities, location and transport connections make it a good place to plant yourself for day or two of skiing or snowboarding in winter.

The Jungfrau Ski Region is on the radar and incorporates Grindelwald First, Kleine Scheidegg-Männlichen and Mürren-Schilthorn.

Even closer is Beatenberg-Niederhorn to the north of Interlaken, which has slopes that will suit families and newcomers to skiing.

Here on the north side of Lake Thun and at Spiez to the south there are also cross-country trails, many overlooking the lake.

If you’re willing to go the extra mile there’s an awesome 15-kilometre toboggan run from the Faulhorn peak down to Grindelwald.

On Lake Thun’s south shore, Spiez is a picturesque town wrapped in vineyards and reached by car, train or boat in a matter of minutes from Interlaken West.

The town is crested by the powerful square keep of its castle, which was first built in the 13th century and gained its current appearance in the 1600s.

This is well worth a visit, along with the 1,000-year-old Romanesque church, and has information in three languages about the succession of noble families that owned the castle under the Kingdom of Burgundy and Habsburg Empire.

There’s also a museum about Spiez’s winemaking history, and trails begin right in the town and wind off into the Niederhorn Range.

15. Panoramabrücke Sigriswil

This new panoramic footbridge on the above Lake Thun is part of a plan to make the lakeshore even more accessible for pedestrians.

Three of seven bridges have been constructed so far, and Panoramabrücke Sigriswil is the most impressive to date.

It soars 180 metres over the Gummi Gorge and is 330 metres in length.

You’ll never tire of the view of the Bernese Alps looming over the deep blue of Lake Thun, no matter how many times you admire it, and this bridge is the one of the best spots to do exactly that.

The bridge is on a path that will carry you down to the charming town of Oberhofen, which has a beach and a castle on the water.

15 Best Things to Do in Interlaken (Switzerland):

• Harder Kulm
• Schynige Platte
• Lake Brienz
• Jungfraujoch
• St Beatus Caves
• Summer Activities
• Weissenau Nature Reserve
• Justistal Alpine Dairy
• Winter Sport
• Panoramabrücke Sigriswil

Interlaken Day Trip: Where to Go & What to See (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Are you thinking of visiting Interlaken in Switzerland and wondering how to plan your Interlaken day trip ? Or maybe you’re looking for suggestions on what to see and do in Interlaken in one day or a sample Interlaken 1 day itinerary ?

This article features all the nicest places you can visit near Interlaken and will give you a good idea of how to spend a day in Interlaken . Find out!

TIP: If you only have one day for Interlaken in your Switzerland itinerary and don’t know where to start or don’t feel like planning everything, there are also nice day tours that you can consider instead. The most popular tours depart either from Zurich or from Lucerne and visit Interlaken and Grindelwald on the same day.

Visiting Interlaken – OVERVIEW

• What to know when planning a trip to Interlaken
• Lake Brienz vs. Lake Thun
• What to see and do on Interlaken day trip
• Additional suggestions
• 4 different Interlaken itineraries for 1 day
• Map of best places to see in Interlaken area
• Where to stay
• Practical information for visiting Interlaken

What to Know Before You Visit Interlaken

The first thing you may want to know when planning to visit Interlaken is that the town itself isn’t big. You can easily see all there is to see in Interlaken town in just an hour or so.

The second thing you should know is that Interlaken – just as the name suggests – is located between two amazingly beautiful lakes.

These lakes and the proximity to many natural landmarks offer countless sightseeing options when visiting Interlaken… However, it might get really overwhelming trying to decide where to go. Especially if you only have one day in Interlaken…

There is so much to see and do in the Interlaken area that you could create many different itineraries. And I’m not even talking about visiting Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Grindelwald, or Jungfraujoch…

This article focuses solely on visiting Interlaken town and the lakes , but if you have at least one day extra, I highly recommend visiting the nearby Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe as well.

We spent a wonderful day in Interlaken this summer. Below, you can read about our experience when visiting Interlaken and how we planned our Interlaken 1 day itinerary.

Further below you can also find the best alternative suggestions for a one day itinerary in Interlaken. As you will see, there is a lot to choose from!

At the bottom of this post, you can find a map and practical information for planning your visit to Interlaken.

Lake Brienz vs. Lake Thun (Brienzersee or Thunersee)

When researching what to see and where to go in Interlaken, you’ll find the two lakes – Brienzersee and Thunersee – mentioned all the time. It’s because a boat trip on one of the two lakes is an absolute must-do in Interlaken! Since the lakes are big and have more sightseeing options than you could possibly see in a day, you’ll have to decide which of the two lakes – Lake Brienz or Lake Thun – you will want to see.

Good to know: It is also possible to tour both lakes on the same day. While I don’t think it’s a good idea to try to see it all in a very short time, I understand that some people want to make the absolute most out of their Interlaken day trip. So if you really want to see the two lakes in one day, you can. In that case, I recommend that you start as early as possible and plan just one or two stops along the route.

There are regular boat trips on both lakes and they both have something different to offer. If you decide to visit just one lake, it might be hard to choose which one to explore. Here’s some info that might help you decide.

Round trip on the Brienzersee is about 2,5 hours , whereas round trip on the Thunersee , is about 3,5 – 4 hours , depending on the boat. You can choose to hop off and hop back on the boat at every stop along the way.

Boats for Brienzersee depart at Interlaken Ost , just near the Interlaken railway station. Harder Kulm funicular is also located just nearby. Whereas boats for Thunersee depart from Interlaken West , on the other side of town.

Both lakes can be visited the whole year-round, but in winter , there are just very few boat rides. For example, in December, Brienzersee boats only run on Sundays, whereas Thunersee has just one daily departure (two on Sundays).

We were told that a boat ride on Thunersee is a bit more varied than on Brienzersee and there is more to see. It’s mostly known for its castles: Schloss Oberhofen , Schloss Hünegg , Schloss Thun , Schloss Schadau , and Schloss Spiez .

You can visit (some of) the castles by hopping off and back on the Thunersee boat, but keep in mind that you’ll probably need the whole day for this and will be able to visit two or maybe three castles.

Brienzersee is a bit smaller and there are fewer attractions along the way. However, it’s really beautiful and more tranquil. It also has the amazing Giessbach Waterfall that’s well worth a visit.

Lake Thun is still on our bucket list, but for our Interlaken day trip this time, we opted to explore Lake Brienz . Since we visited Interlaken for just one day and wanted to see the town, visit Harder Kulm, and tour one of the lakes, this looked like a more relaxing option. And it was – we had an amazing day in Interlaken area. Further below, you can read about our experience.

Interlaken Day Trip – Our Experience & One Day Itinerary

If you are looking for a nice way to spend a day in Interlaken, then I can really recommend a combination of visiting the town, touring one of the lakes, the villages, and enjoying the views from Harder Kulm.

I have to admit that we didn’t know how to best spend one day in Interlaken and so we asked local guides for the best recommendations. The trip we ended up doing in Interlaken was recommended to us by two different people and it turned out to be a great choice. The scenery along Lake Brienz is amazing and this itinerary has lots of variation.

Below you can find our detailed one day Interlaken itinerary that includes visiting Harder Kulm – Top of Interlaken , a boat trip on Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) , a visit to the beautiful Giessbach Waterfalls , an easy lakeshore hike to the very picturesque village Iseltwald , and Interlaken town itself. Read on to find out how to see it all in one (relaxing) day.

This is a relatively easy Interlaken day trip that starts and ends in Interlaken town center. Further below, you can find some tips for alternative Interlaken itineraries that also start and end in Interlaken. Take a look!

Harder Kulm – Top of Interlaken

We started our day in Interlaken with a short ride on a steep funicular to Harder Kulm . This is one of the most popular Interlaken attractions. In my opinion, visiting Harder Kulm is one of the best things to do in Interlaken!

Harder Kulm is a viewpoint at 1,321 m height overlooking the towns of Interlaken and Unterseen and the two lakes of Interlaken – Thunersee and Brienzersee. The view is amazing and well worth visiting.

No matter how much time you have in Interlaken, make sure to go up to Harder Kulm!

Because it’s one of the best things to do in Interlaken and because it’s so easy to visit, Harder Kulm can get extremely busy. Especially if you come here in summer. We visited at 10 am on a weekday in August and it was already quite lively at the top…

On top of the mountain, there is a souvenir shop and a restaurant with a beautiful terrace. Phenomenal views included. This is a very popular place for sunset, but if you want the views without the crowds, it’s best to come early in the morning.

Practical info: Harder Kulm can be best reached by the funicular that’s located across the river, just near the railway station in the center of Interlaken. The funicular ride takes 10 minutes with departures every 30 minutes… It’s only operating from approximately mid-April till mid-December. In season, you can book your tickets for this funicular here .

You could also hike to Harder Kulm . It’s a short hike of just 4km (2,5 miles), but it’s very steep. It takes about 2.5-3 hours one way. You can choose to ride the funicular one way and hike back, but that would take you a good part of the day.

Boat ride on Lake Brienz

A boat trip on Lake Brienz is a nice experience in itself – the azure blue water and the surrounding mountains are a treat for the eye. Colorful picturesque villages along the lake make the scenery complete.

Accidentally, the boat we took was a historic paddle steamer. It goes a bit slower than the modern boats, but it’s an experience in itself. It was fun to see that some passengers were even dressed in Belle Époque-style clothing…

Below you can read about the places along the lake which we chose to include in our Interlaken one day itinerary after visiting Harder Kulm. Take a look!

Giessbach Waterfalls

Following advice from the locals, we took a boat from Interlaken to Giessbach where we disembarked. This part of the journey takes approximately 1 hour.

Giessbach is just a tiny place by the lake, there isn’t even a village here, just the beautiful historic Grandhotel Giessbach with a restaurant. You can have lunch on the terrace of the hotel or have a picnic on a beautiful lawn next to the hotel, as most people do.

When you arrive in Giessbach by boat, you’re at the lake level which is much lower than the hotel or the waterfall. The easiest way to get to the top is to take a steep funicular. A ride on this historic Giessbach funicular is an attraction in itself! Kids loved it and it saved us a steep walk uphill.

The main reason to visit Giessbach is the famous Giessbach waterfalls . It’s a really impressive waterfall, one of the best ones I’ve seen in Switzerland, that tumbles down in 14 stages till it reaches the lake below.

My pictures don’t do it justice because the sun made it impossible to get a really good shot of all the waterfalls at once, so you’ll just have to take my word for it. Giessbach waterfalls are really beautiful!

It is also possible to walk behind the Giessbach waterfall and that makes a visit even more special! Prepare to get a bit wet – no big deal, just a refreshing splash of water on a warm summer day.

Unless you go hiking in the area, you don’t need more than 30-45 minutes to visit Giessbach, maybe a bit longer if you also have lunch there.

Afterwards, you have several options. You can take a boat to Brienz, take a boat back to Interlaken, or to one of the smaller towns along the lake (more suggestions below).

We opted for yet another option and walked to the nearby village Iseltwald, following the scenic hiking path along the shore of the lake. From there we would take a boat back to Interlaken. Read on!

Giessbach to Iseltwald – Lakeshore Trail

There are several hiking paths connecting Giessbach with Iseltwald. The shortest, the easiest, and the most scenic one is the trail that follows the shore of the lake (so not the one higher up the hill that goes through the forest). It should take you 45-60 minutes to walk between the two places.

Now, I have to be honest with you, the lakeshore trail between Giessbach and Iseltwald is a really nice walk, but it’s not comparable to any other amazing hiking trails in the nearby mountains. So it’s something that is nice to do if you have an hour or two to spare when visiting Interlaken, but it’s definitely not a must if you are short on time.

The first part of this hike is quite boring, actually, but then about halfway, it gets really beautiful. The hiking trail follows a stunning coastline with the azure blue lake on one side and impressive rock formations on the other side. The closer you get to Iseltwald, the better the scenery… Take a look at the pictures below!

Iseltwald itself is a very picturesque village. In summer and weather permitting, you can go swimming in the lake, rent a boat or a kayak, and spend at least half a day just enjoying the ‘beach’.

We made this day trip to Interlaken at the beginning of August, but it wasn’t really swimming weather that day. Our kids took a quick dip in the water and quickly came out. Swimming at the mountain lakes in Switzerland is really only doable with air temperatures of at least 25° C and lots of sunshine…

Because of this short swim, we missed our boat from Iseltwald to Interlaken. This meant that we had about an hour extra in the village. Luckily, Iseltwald is not the worst place to be stuck in for a few hours, that’s for sure. We found a beautiful restaurant terrace near the harbor and enjoyed some drinks and ice cream. When the next boat came, we didn’t feel like leaving…

From Iseltwald, it takes about 35-45 minutes to get back to Interlaken, depending on which boat you take. In summer, there are boats running every hour during the day.

We have been to the Interlaken area so many times in the past but never heard of Iseltwald or Giessbach before.

I’m really glad that this time we took some time to explore these places. They are both really nice, so typically Swiss, and have little crowds. In any case, not much compared to the busy Interlaken town itself or the nearby towns of the Jungfrau region…

There isn’t that much to do in Interlaken town itself, but it’s a very pleasant place. Beautiful buildings, grand hotels built over a century ago, busy little streets lined with shops and restaurants, flowers everywhere, and horse-pulled carriages with tourists… This is what you can expect to find in Interlaken.

We decided to take a walk in town, have a drink, and just take it easy. It was the perfect way to end our day in the Interlaken area. Afterwards, we took a train back to our hotel in Wengen.

So, this is how our Interlaken day trip looked like. Below you can find some alternative recommendations for things you could do when visiting Interlaken. Further below, you can find four different Interlaken one day itinerary suggestions. Read on!

Alternative Sightseeing Options for Visiting Interlaken

As already mentioned, there are so many different ways to spend your day in Interlaken. Below are a few alternative suggestions for you.

Interlaken – Lake Brienz – Giessbach – Brienz

If you are not keen to go hiking or swimming in the lake, we have an alternative suggestion for your day from Interlaken.

In the morning, follow our trip itinerary up to Giessbach. After you visit the waterfall, get back down to the lake and take the next boat to Brienz. That way you can see the entire lake and also pay a visit to Brienz town .

If you take a boat all the way to Brienz, it will take you about 1,5 hours to get back to Interlaken. This would be another good option for your Interlaken day trip.

Lake Brienz – Giessbach – Interlaken – Thunersee

First, follow the same itinerary and visit Harder Kulm in the morning. Then take a boat on Lake Brienz and visit the waterfalls (same as above).

Then afterwards, take a boat from Giessbach back to Interlaken. Have lunch on the boat (to save time) and then take a boat trip on Thunersee in the afternoon.

If you want to see both lakes, I advise to start your day in Interlaken as early as possible and take the very first boat in the morning. Otherwise, just pick one stop on each lake and maybe don’t travel the entire length.

Interlaken – Thunersee

Thunersee is the second one of the two lakes of Interlaken. Just like at Brienzersee, there are also boat tours on Thunersee. In addition, there is a beach area close to the hotel Neuhaus in Unterseen as well. In summer, it’s a busy place…

Just as with Brienzersee, you could spend the whole day just exploring Lake Thun . There are some really nice castles along the shores of Thunersee: Oberhofen Castle, Hünegg Castle, Thun Castle, Schadau Castle, and Spiez Castle. If you take a boat, you can hop off and back on and visit several of these castles along the way.

Thun town is also a very nice place to visit if you have more time…

Good to know: If you decide to visit Thun, you should know that it’s also possible to return to Interlaken (or wherever you’re staying at) by train. This is a faster option than the boat.

Interlaken 1 Day Itinerary Suggestions

As you can see, there are countless ways to plan a day in Interlaken. To make it easier for you to plan your own day trip to Interlaken, I created some sample itineraries based on the suggestions above.

Pick any of these itineraries and you’ll have a great day in Interlaken area. Alternatively, use this for inspiration and create your own unique Interlaken day trip.

To not complicate things even more, all my suggested itineraries for one day in Interlaken start and end in Interlaken town. Take a look!

Option 1: Harder Kulm – Giessbach – Iseltwald – Interlaken (our itinerary)

• 10 AM Harder Kulm
• 11.07 AM Boat from Interlaken to Giessbach (Brienzersee)
• Visit Giessbach waterfall and have lunch in Giessbach
• Hike from Giessbach to Iseltwald
• Swim in Iseltwald
• 4.08 PM Boat from Iseltwald to Interlaken
• Interlaken town

Option 2: Harder Kulm – Giessbach – Brienz – Interlaken

• Harder Kulm (or leave it for in the evening)
• Boat from Interlaken to Giessbach
• Visit Giessbach waterfall
• Boat from Giessbach to Brienz
• Visit Brienz
• Boat from Brienz to Interlaken

Option 3: Brienzersee – Thunersee – Harder Kulm – Interlaken

• Boat trip on Brienzersee without any stops
• Lunch on the boat or in Interlaken
• Boat trip on Thunersee with 1 stop
• Harder Kulm

Option 4: Brienzersee – Giessbach – Thunersee – Harder Kulm – Interlaken

• Boat from Giessbach to Interlaken
• Boat trip on Thunersee
• Interlaken and Harder Kulm

Map of Interlaken Area

To help you get a better idea of where all these places are located, I created this map indicating all the places in the Interlaken area mentioned in this article. Take a look below.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to Stay

Interlaken has many nice hotels and other accommodation options. If you are looking for a really nice place to stay in town, one of the best luxury hotels is the historic Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa .

Here are some of the best-rated Interlaken hotels for all budgets:

$$$$ The HEY HOTEL . $$$ Hotel Interlaken . $$ Hotel Lötschberg .

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in Interlaken . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

Practical Information for Visiting Interlaken

• Boat: Here you can find timetables for boat trips on Brienzersee as well as Thunresee . On this website, you’ll also find more information about ticket prices. The holders of the Swiss Pass can travel on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz for free (in the same class as your pass).
• Tickets: If you have a Jungfrau Travel Pass of 5 days or more, boat tickets for both lakes, as well as Harder Kulm funicular fees are included. Since we were staying in the region longer, we bought this pass; it’s an amazing value and saves you so much money if doing lots of sightseeing.
• Discounts: There are discounts available for the holders of the Swiss Travel Pass and several others. Kids under 6 years old travel for free. For kids between 6 and 16, I really recommend getting Junior Travelcard .
• Harder Kulm: Funicular only runs from mid-April till the end of November. If you don’t have a Travel Pass and you need tickets, you can normally get them on the spot. If you want to get tickets in advance, you can also book them here . Booking in advance might save you a long wait if there’s a queue at the ticket desk.
• When to visit: Interlaken is a year-round destination and you can see most places in any season. However, there is much more to see and do if you come between April and November.
• Boats in the low season: There are many more boats in summer than in winter, so make sure to check the schedules when planning your visit. The high season is from the end of June till the beginning of September, shoulder season is June and September to mid-October. In the low season, there are daily boats on Thunersee, but not on Brienzersee.

READ ALSO: Swiss Travel Pass: Complete Guide

So, this is our guide to visiting Interlaken and the best way to plan your own perfect Interlaken day tour. I hope that you find this guide useful and that it will help you make the most of your trip to this beautiful part of Switzerland .

If you have any questions about visiting Interlaken that have not been covered in this article, don’t hesitate to leave a reply below and I’ll try to help.

TIP: If you have one more day in Interlaken area in the summer season, don’t miss Schynige Platte ! It’s one of the most beautiful and somewhat lesser-known mountain destinations in Switzerland, and just a short trip from Interlaken. Check it out!

READ ALSO: 10 Days in Switzerland – First-Timer’s Itinerary

Interlaken town is quite small and the biggest attraction that you have to see here is Harder Kulm which can be reached via the funicular. So you can easily visit Interlaken town center and Harder Kulm in 2-3 hours. So, one day is enough to see in Interlaken and also take a boat trip on one of the lakes.

There is so much to see and do near Interlaken that you can easily spend a week or even two weeks here and never get bored. However, as a minimum, try to plan 3 days in the area: 1 day for Interlaken town and one of the lakes, 1 day for a trip to Jungfraujoch in combination with Wengen and Lauterbrunnen, and 1 day for visiting Grindelwald and the Grindelwald-First area.

The best time to visit Interlaken is during the summer, from mid-May to September. That’s when everything is open and accessible in the mountains and the temperatures are pleasant for all the outdoor activities that this area has to offer.

Interlaken is a charming town, but what makes it special and worth visiting is its spectacular location and the stunning mountain scenery of the surrounding Bernese Oberland region. So while the town itself is worth an hour or two of your time, the real reason to visit Interlaken are the lakes and the mountains around it.

Interlaken town can easily be explored on foot or by bike. The two lakes of Interlaken are best explored by boat. The nearby mountain resorts of the Jungfrau Region can easily be accessed by train or by car, and once you are in the mountains, you can also go hiking!

Interlaken is centrally located for visiting many places in central Switzerland. It’s easy to get to by car and it also has excellent railway connections. So yes, depending on what you are planning to see in the area, Interlaken can be a good place to stay for exploring the Berner Oberland region.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Lucerne

More tips for your trip to Switzerland:

• Must see: Visit Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe and Mount Titlis
• But which one is better? Mt Titlis vs Jungfraujoch
• Grindelwald: Best Things to Do in Grindelwald-First
• Winter in this region: Jungfrau Region in Winter and Skiing in Wengen
• Skiing in other regions: Skiing in Switzerland on a Budget & Skiing in Engelberg
• Best cities: Things to Do in Geneva & Things to Do in Bern & Best Things to Do in Lucerne
• Zermatt area: Things to Do in Zermatt & One Day in Zermatt & Klein Matterhorn & Gornergrat
• Lucerne area: Best Day Trips from Lucerne & How to Visit Mt Pilatus from Lucerne & Pilatus Golden Round Trip

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

Some of our favorite hikes in Switzerland:

• Matterhorn Glacier Trail (Zermatt)
• Hiking at Schynige Platte  (near Interlaken)
• Oeschinen Lake & Hike  (close to Interlaken)
• Four Lakes Hike in Engelberg  (near Lucerne)
• Bachalpsee Lake  (Grindelwald)
• Stoos Ridge Hike  (close to Lucerne or Zurich)
• Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge Hike  (near Zermatt)

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Tuesday 26th of March 2024

Hello. Thank you for sharing such wonderful information in your blog. In the Interlaken itinerary you shared, you said you visited Harder Kulm at 10:00 AM. Was that the time you took the funicular? How long did you spend at Harder Kulm? What time did you take the funicular back down to make the 11:07 boat on Brienzersee? Thank you.

Wednesday 27th of March 2024

Hi Brenda, we went up around 10 AM and were back down in town and already on the boat around 11 AM. I can't remember the exact schedule; this is based on the timestamp in my photos. The journey by funicular is just a few minutes and the walk from the funicular station to the viewing platform is also very short. Half an hour is plenty at the top, unless you want to do some extra hiking or sit down for some coffee at the restaurant. If you want to spend more time at Harder Kulm and take it easier, simply arrive a bit earlier than we did. Also, we didn't have to wait long for funicular, but you never know how busy it is on the day when you visit, so if you can foresee some extra time, you may want to do that. Hope this helps.

Sunil Chawla

Saturday 23rd of March 2024

Thanks for sharing such a informative blog with so many alternatives to travel. We have planned for 11 Nights in Switzerland from 21.06.2024 to 02.07.2024 Will be staying in Intelaken (Six Nights), Montreux (Three Nights) and Zurich (Two Nights) Information provided by you will be very much useful to us. We wish to make one day trip to Gstaad & Saanen. Please advice that we should plan this trip from Interlaken or Montreux ? We are senior citizens and will avoid hiking. Plan to do only one mountain trip i.e. Jungfrau from Interlaken. Also please suggest best day trips from Montreux. Thanks and Regards Sunil

Sunday 24th of March 2024

@Jurga, Thanks for your quick reply We will buy 15 days Swiss Travel Pass ( First Class ) and as advised by you we will visit Gstaad from Montreux. Since we have plenty of time in Interlaken and Montreux, please suggest more day trips Thanks

Hi Sunil, you didn't say how you travel - by car or public transport. Gstaad/Saanen can be visited from both places and by car there's not much difference. By train is a bit easier from Montreux. As for excursions from Montreux, you can visit Geneva, take a boat ride on the lake, and visit Lausanne, Vevey, etc. You can also drive to Chamonix in France or visit Glacier 3000. You can also find some nice guided tours from Montreux. Enjoy your trip!

Saturday 24th of February 2024

Hello Jurga Big fan of your blogs !! Need your guidance to plan one day in Lauterbrunnen with the train routes and bus routes/ numbers/stoos We will be coming from Lucerne or Interlaken.

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Hi Snehal, there are dozens of ways to plan a day in the area around Lauterbrunnen, so you'll have to do it yourself based on your interests. Decide what you absolutely want to visit and then see how to fit it all in. My advice would be to not visit two different mountain peaks in one day or you'll spend more time in transit than actually exploring AND it will cost you a fortune. So concentrate on one area - either Mürren/Schilthorn, or Wengen/Kleine Scheidegg/Jungfraujoch, or Grindelwald-First, or Schynige Platte. If you visit either Mürren or Jungfraujoch, you can also spend some time in Lauterbrunnen Valley and visit the waterfalls there (don't miss Trümmelbach Falls). We also have detailed guides for most of the top places in this area on our blog. So once you decide which place you want to visit, you can find more information on our blog (all except Mürren). See the overview in our Switzerland travel page. Hope this helps.

Friday 9th of February 2024

We only have 4 nights and three days in Zurich. We were thinking of doing Interlaken, Lucerne and ending in Zurich. Leaning towards renting a car. Does this seem doable? Would you suggest staying in Lucern and daytripping to Interlaken and then ending last two nights in Zurich? I really enjoyed stumbling on your blog, so much great information. Thank you, Liz

Saturday 10th of February 2024

Hi Liz, if you are mostly interested in cities and popular mountain destinations, then you don't really need a car - a train will likely be much easier. But if you want to visit many smaller places and villages, a car might be nice to have, but it's definitely not a must. As for how to plan the itinerary, there are so many ways. If you just want to stay in one central location, then Lucerne is likely the best option. You can just take a train to/from Zurich airport to Lucerne (via the city but you can skip it altogether). With just 4 nights in Switzerland, there are many better places to visit than Zurich ;). You may want to take a look at our guide to the best day trips from Lucerne. Even if you decide not to base yourself there and stay in Interlaken for a few nights, it will give you plenty of ideas of the best places to visit in that area. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Saturday 4th of November 2023

Scary. Holiday means for us to relax and don‘t have a look at the clock.

Everyone travels differently, Stephi... For many international visitors, a day is all they have in one or the other area. Most people only have a few weeks holidays per year and if they take an expensive trip to the other side of the world, they want to see as much as they possibly can in the time that they have... Our 1-day itineraries are written for those people and not for the locals who have weeks to spend in one place. Think of it this way - if you spend thousands of dollars to travel to the USA or Australia and you only have a week or two, you'll also visit some of the best national parks or cities in just a day or two and try to pack in as much as you can, while most locals will book a longer holiday in just one place and explore it to the fullest. PS There is no need to comment on every 1-day itinerary on our website saying that you could stay a week there and go back every year :). I know you can, even a few weeks. We usually do that too when we have the time and we have been to all these areas multiple times too. Once again, these articles are written for those people who don't have the luxury of time and want to see the best that each place has to offer in a day. Happy travels!

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Foolproof Visitor’s Guide to Interlaken Switzerland

An Ultimate travel Guide for Interlaken, Switzerland!

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The stunningly pristine alpine village of Interlaken, Switzerland is one that visitors to Central Europe must add to their destination bucket list. Nestled between two alpine water lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and epic views of snow capped Alp mountains, this area of the Canton of Bern, Switzerland continues to be a breathtakingly beautiful stop for visitors. It is also home to one of the world’s thrill-seeking capitals. Imagine having access to turquoise waters for windsurfing and kayaking, and being in proximity to major Alp mountains like the Jungfrau, for extreme sports. With so much to see, do and explore in Interlaken I guarantee you’ll leave wanting to come back to this paradise in central Switzerland.

How to get to Interlaken

No matter what destination you are coming from, getting to Interlaken is quite easy. By taking one of Switzerland’s timely and efficient trains, you can arrive to the center of the town of Interlaken and begin your exploring soon after.

There are two train stations in Interlaken – Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West. Interlaken Ost is closer to the Old Town part of the city, while the Interlaken West station is closer to Lake Thun. I visited Interlaken after a long weekend in Zurich , and with one easy to make connection in Bern , found ourselves at the Interlaken Ost train station (as it was closer to our AirBnb ) marveling at the beautiful mountains right behind the train station. Which were dripping in natural waterfalls and springs. You can look up Swiss train schedules here .

There is also an airport in the area called Belp Airport. However, it is typically much cheaper to fly into a major airport, like Zurich International, and take a train, rather than spend an exorbitant amount on a flight to a smaller airport like the Belp Airport.

And of course you can reach Interlaken by car. Depending on where you are staying this may be a great option so that you don’t have to rely on public transportation (however, public transportation in Switzerland is very reliable). You can utilize the Sepp app to find and pay for parking in Switzerland, and here is a map of where you can find parking in the central part of Interlaken.

Where to Stay in Interlaken

Deciding on where to stay can be a challenging feat for any trip. You want to have balance between great location, price, value and more. Since Interlaken is known for more beyond its city lines, such as outdoor adventure sports, there is an overwhelming amount of options. Here are quite a few options for travelers on different budgets visiting Interlaken:

Looking for traditional Swiss architecture?

Stay in Interlaken City. This is the urban part of Interlaken, and is very walkable. This is also where a lot of the adventure sport companies will have visitors meet near.

Lodging in Interlaken City

Looking for lake views?

Stay on one of the lakes that hug Interlaken, Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. We stayed at a beautifully renovated AirBnb that had stunning views of Lake Thun (and heated bathroom floors, second best feature next to the lakeside views!)

Looking to stay outside of Interlaken?

Here are a few options for wanting to stay somewhere that isn’t in the main part of Interlaken:

• Lauterbrunnen- only a few kilometers south of Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen is best known for its quintessential Swiss chalet style homes, and beautiful landscape views.

Lodging in Lauterbrunnen

• Grindelwald- the mountain village of the Eiger mountain, there are lots of activities to participate in here for both summer and winter months.

Lodging in Grindelwald

• Thun- the main town that Lake Thun was named after. Thun felt much more traditional Swiss than the (quite frankly) over touristed area of Interlaken City. It also felt like there was much more to see if you weren’t doing outdoor adventure activities during your entire time to this area of Switzerland.

Lodging in Thun

Looking for convenience to travel elsewhere?

Stay near Interlaken Ost, which is the east side of the town. It is close to the larger train station. It is also near the touristy areas; meaning lots of souvenir shops and over-priced/under value eateries.

While I could link to multiple different hostels, hotels and B&Bs, I understand that it’s important to look at all of your options, so instead I would suggest making your own independent decision (as you know your travel style better than I ever could). I typically book through AirBnb or Booking.com.

Hafen Lodge, AirBnb

Where to stay in Interlaken, Switzerland

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When should you go to interlaken.

The best Time of Year to visit Interlaken

The best part about Interlaken is that it’s always a good time to visit! It really depends on what you want to do while you are there. If you’re looking for winter sports, then you can’t beat skiing or snowboarding in the Swiss Alps. If you want to be able to casually walk around and enjoy the european charm and beautiful landscapes then springtime and summer are great. And yes, it does warm up in Interlaken, even though it is near the Swiss Alps. It can get up to the mid-70s during the summer months.

I would suggest that you keep your budget in mind when deciding when to visit Interlaken (or any part of Switzerland for that matter). It is a fairly expensive country, and can become even more expensive during busy seasons such as mid-summer months and major holidays like Christmas.

How many days should you stay/visit Interlaken?

Similar to the best time of year to visit Interlaken, the number of days you should spend in this area is dependent on what you want to while there and your preferred travel style. You could spend a solid three days there and be able to explore Interlaken, have an adventurous excursion, like paragliding, and enjoy half a day on a boat cruise of one of the lakes.

If you prefer a slower paced travel experience, then I would suggest taking a week here. That way you can enjoy going to the top of Jungfrau (which you would want to wait to do until the sky is clear, see more about this below). As well as be able to spend an entire day exploring the town of Thun (my favorite place during my trip to Interlaken). You would also have time to go on a few hikes, and feel as if you have experienced all that Interlaken city has to offer.

How to get around Interlaken & the surrounding areas

Interlaken is conveniently compact so exploring the city center is easily done so on foot. However if you are staying outside of the city center you will be able to take their local bus lines.

In order to find which route/s to take I would suggest using Google Maps or Rome2Rio . For all of our travels we use these two options. The best part is that most hotels will have free bus cards for their visitors, so be sure to ask the front desk when you check in. Even our AirBnb host had bus cards for us to use. There are of course taxis you can take around as well, but the buses were always on time, and conveniently close to everything we needed.

Don’t forget that Interlaken is situated between those two shockingly turquoise watered lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. There are boats that you can take around the entirety of the lakes with multiple stop off points that I would highly recommend (keep reading to find those below!). You can purchase tickets for the boats at the tourist office or at their docks. Here is a map of the stops on both lakes.

• If you want to explore Lake Thun, then you would board near the Interlaken West train station
• It takes about two hours to get to the town of Thun
• Best stop off points: Oberhofen Castle, St. Beatus Caves, Spiez
• Not every boat that departs from Interlaken West will be a multi-stop boat, so be sure to ask which one will stop at each spot
• Map of Lake Thun boat docks here
• Boats operate year round, so you can enjoy a round about boat trip on Lake Thun even in the winter

LAKE BRIENZ

• If you want to explore Lake Brienz, then you would board near the Interlaken Ost train station
• It takes about one and a half hours to get to the town of Brienz
• Not every boat that departs from Interlaken Ost will be a multi-stop boat, so be sure to ask which one will stop at each spot
• Map of Lake Brienz boat docks here

Why should I go to Interlaken?

Check out this blog post that includes

Eight Reasons why you NEED to visit Interlaken, Switzerland

Things to do in & around Interlaken

Interlaken is known as an adventure seekers destination, so there is no shortage of things to do in this area of Switzerland.

• Spend time outdoors on a scenic hike

Hiking is an all time favorite travel activity of mine, and an excellent way to burn off those vacation meal calories when traveling. Interlaken has so many options when it comes to their hikes. You can find ones that are range in length and difficulty. Wherever I’m traveling to, I almost always use the All Trails app to research and choose which hike/s I want to go on. Download the app here !

Cost: Free!

Each morning you’ll be able to see paragliders swinging lightly through the clouds down to the center of Interlaken. So, why not be one of them? This fairly carefree adventure is great for those just beginning to go outside of their comfort zone (which I can say from experience, as I’ve tended to lean towards the safe side until I went paragliding in Interlaken).

After reviewing a few companies (based on price, reviews, years in service & level of professionalism) we chose to book with Paragliding Interlaken . Their staff were very accommodating and we loved our guides. Push past those fears of heights and enjoy a birds eye view of Interlaken!

Cost: 170 CHF

Step up your game & be a daredevil

While paragliding is a wonderful activity, if you’re feeling up for an even greater adrenaline rush, Interlaken also has companies that offer skydiving, canyoning, white water rafting, ice climbing and bungee jumping. Luckily Paragliding Interlaken has lots of options for the adventurous type. *Add in Tripadvisor link if approved for their affiliate program

Cost: depends on activity, ranges from 40 CHF to 400+ CHF

See if the legend is true, by visiting St. Beatus Caves

There is a legend that says Saint Beatus defeated a dragon that was living inside of these caves. You’ll have to see for yourself if you believe it to be true, but either way you’ll be greeted with stunning waterfalls both in and outside of the caves. The caves are open from March to November. Find more details about visiting here .

Cost: 18 CHF

Take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz

Interlaken is great for providing ways to view this beautiful country from both above the clouds and on the shorelines. A lake cruise is a wonderful way to spend your day and they offer plenty of hop on/off stops for further exploring.

Lake Thun cruises depart from the ferry dock near the Interlaken West station, while the Lake Brienz cruises depart of the ferry dock near the Interlaken Ost station. Both are easy to find once you’re at the train stations. You can find the timetables here . The more difficult decisions you’ll make is which lake to cruise on. Both feature turquoise waters and stunning views of the Alps. If you have time consider going on both! Cruises are offered April through October, and there are winter cruises on Lake Thun (only).

COST: starting at 35 CHF

Since you’re already going to take a Lake Cruise (which is my number one suggestion for those visiting Interlaken!), you might as well stop off from the Lake Thun cruise to explore the Oberhofen Castle.

My standards for visiting a museum and castle have become somewhat particular … after plenty of travels, I’ve seen quite a few and have decided to spend my money wisely when visiting, as not all are created equal … and I would definitely recommend walking through Oberhofen Castle.

We found this 13th century castle and museum to be informative, engaging and loved the way the interior has been maintained. There are also English gardens outside that you can walk around in, for picture perfect moments with loved ones (unlike these hilarious attempts we made here… not quite sure what we were trying, but sleep deprivation probably had something to do with us thinking it was a good idea, haha).

Overall it is an enchanting lakeside with beautiful architecture, and remains one of my favorite stops while we were in Interlaken, Switzerland.

Cost: 10 CHF, Oberhofen Castle Visitor Information

Put your fancy pants on & enjoy a cocktail at Interlaken’s finest hotel, the Victoria Jungfrau Hotel. In between all of your outdoor adventures, be sure to treat yourself to a high class atmosphere. The Victoria Bar offers traditional English tea times on the weekends as well.

Cost: depends on what you order

Walk around Interlaken Old Town

There are two sides to Interlaken’s town centre, the main street and the streets north of the main street leading to the river.

The Main street is strictly shopping and mostly for tourists. I wouldn’t skip past it too quickly but you don’t need to spend too much time here. If you’re looking to buy some Swiss chocolate, Swiss Army Knives or souvenir type items then this is where to go.

After you’ve finished with your shopping, head north through the small collection of streets that lead to the river. Here you will find more traditional buildings decorated with baskets of flowers and colourful window shutters, including the Interlaken Monastery and castle.

Cost: free!

Explore the top of a lesser known Swiss Alp, the Neiderhorn

Below are the top Swiss Alps to visit when you’re near Interlaken, Switzerland. However, I’ve come to love exploring the lesser known places while traveling and you will not be disappointed by taking half a day (or a full day if you want to hike up) experiencing the top of the Niederhorn. This was suggested to us by our AirBnb host, as was the restaurant that is located at the midway point.

You can either hike from the bottom to the top, or take the funicular. In fact, you can ride the funicular to different heights of the mountain. So if you want to ride halfway up and hike the rest (or vice versa) you can!

Cost: the cost has varied since we visited, I would ask your local lodging to find this for you

Soak up another breathtaking view at Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm is a viewpoint in Interlaken. People call it Interlaken’s own mountain as the view looks down directly over the town. Visitors take a quick ten minute cable car up to the top, and can walk out over the extending platform to spectacular views of Interlaken and Unterseen from above.

*The cable car cost is a bit pricey, so be sure to plan to go only on a clear sky day. I would suggest visiting around sunset is best. There is also a panoramic restaurant with a glass viewing platform.

Cost: (for the funicular) 38 CHF

Visit the beautiful Giessbach Waterfalls

On the south side of Lake Brienz are the Giessbach Waterfalls. Arrive either by ferry or bike, then take the funicular to the Grand Hotel Giessbach, which has incredible views. Of course you can always hike up or down instead of taking the funicular, if you want to spend more time outside enjoying Switzerland’s hikes.

For more details on the hike, check out this blog post .

Cost: 10 CHF

Day Trips from Interlaken

Just as it’s smart to have a somewhat planned out itinerary for things to do in Interlaken, there are so many beautiful places around the area that you should consider as well.

Be enthralled with Thun Switzerland

Enjoy your lake cruise on Lake Thun over to the town that the lake was named after, Thun. You can enjoy your time walking through the colorful town, and the uphill walk to the Sleeping Beauty-esque castle, Thun Castle. You may even catch some surfers riding the structured tides at the wooden bridges in the town center. Yes, that’s right, Thun has wooden bridges just like Lucerne !

Step back in time at Unterseen

This medieval town is walkable from Interlaken, and worth half a day trip for those who enjoy meandering through charming European towns.

Explore the famous mountain of Jungfrau

Visitors can hop into a cogwheel train all the way to the top of the mountain and take in breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. There is a Snow Park open during the summer months, which is great for snow tubing, skiing or snowboarding.

It takes two hours to get to Jungfrau from Interlaken, and I don’t believe there are any restrooms on the trains. It’s accessible 365 days a year. There is also a Jungfrau pass that’s great for those who want to explore more than one mountain town near Interlaken, as it will save you money if you want to participate in many of those activities. You can purchase the Jungfrau Travel Pass HERE .

Battle your adventure fears in Grindelwald

No, I don’t mean the J.K. Rowling (author of the Harry Potter novels) evil Grindelwald, I mean the outdoorsy, very popular mountain town, Grindelwald. Not only is the main town of Grindelwald postcard worthy for Switzerland, there are also lots of outdoor activities for both summer and winter months. Here are more details on what to do in Grindelwald .

Take postcard worthy images in Lauterbrunnen

You’ve probably seen snapshots of this Swiss town with its iconic waterfall falling near the main town. Visitors can easily take a train or car from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, and capture pictures you will cherish for years.

Take a scenic train ride

There is something magical about train rides that weave you through the countryside, especially a countryside as adorably picturesque as Switzerlands. Take the Schynige Platte cogwheel train from Wilderswil. Only a ten minute drive or bus ride from Interlaken. *Be sure to check the weather forecast before choosing which day to do this, because if it’s cloudy outside then you won’t see the wonderfully beautiful scenery, which makes this trip worth it.

FUN FACTS about Interlaken, Switzerland

Both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are turquoise and blue due to glacial particles. These tiny particles drip down the Swiss Alps and sink to the bottom of the lake, purifying the water as they go on their descent.

Hi! I’m Laura, a sustainable travel blogger, as well as freelancing online brand strategist. I share real & honest information about traveling, how to do so sustainably, and ways to earn an income while working remote.

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I visited Interlaken when I was in college and your post and beautiful photos make me eager to return!

I’ve heard Interlaken is beautiful! Definitely on my to-do list!

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28 Best Things to Do in Interlaken in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Switzerland

Published On: March 30, 2024

Centrally located between lakes Thun and Brienz, Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s home to tall mountains, lovely lakes, and endless hiking trails that allow you to explore some of Central Switzerland’s best landscapes. These are just a few of the reasons we have returned to Interlaken three times. We can’t get enough of it.

One of the first things you will notice is that you don’t go to Interlaken for the tourist attractions and landmarks. You come here for outdoor activities and once-in-a-lifetime adventures to the best and tallest summits in the Swiss Alps. And if that sounds like a trip you would enjoy, then you’ll enjoy all of these superb things to do in Interlaken! 

This guide takes you from the best chocolate shops in Interlaken to the most charming Alpine lakes in the mountains high above it. Climb to Jungfraujoch so you can say you’ve visited Top of Europe, or head to Schilthorn to experience a gondola ride straight out of a James Bond movie. All the while, you’re traveling on mountain trains and cable cars, some of which are several centuries old. 

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s explore all the top things to do in Interlaken and its surroundings!

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Interlaken

Interlaken is an excellent town for outdoor fun. If your idea of a good time includes biking, Alpine climbing, rafting, paragliding, and indulging in cheese and chocolate, you’ll love it here. The town doesn’t have many traditional landmarks and attractions, but it offers so many fun things to do that it’s impossible not to enjoy your trip. 

Best of Interlaken Quick Guide

• Must See: Jungfraujoch, Mount Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Thun Castle, Lauterbrunnen Valley, Lake Brienz, Harder Kulm 
• Where To Stay: Interlaken Youth Hostel , Metropole Swiss Quality Hotel , Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
• Fun To Do: Paragliding, Rafting, Canyoning, Boat rides
• Day Trips: Thun, Grindelwald , Lucerne, Bern
• Must Try Foods: Fondue, Raclette, Rosti, Chocolate. Make sure to check out our Swiss food guide .

1. Walking Tour of The Town 

First things first – book a walking tour of Interlaken and get acquainted with the lovely Swiss town. Guided tours of the town usually take up to 2 hours, although longer tours are available. The main difference is that the longer tours include a trip to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s home mountain. 

A classic walking tour of Interlaken will take you past the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel and the Hohematte Park, to the Interlaken Castle, and over the river into Unterseen. Local guides will tell you the history of the town’s best landmarks and offer inside information on their favorite places to eat. 

Practical Information: Walking tours of Interlaken usually take 1-2 hours. 

2. Eat Copious Amounts of Cheese

Switzerland is famous worldwide for its delicious cheeses, and a trip to Interlaken is an excellent opportunity to see what the hype is about. You can eat cheese for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus you can book fondue cruises and even raclette rafting experiences. The Swiss don’t joke around with their cheeses!

Interlaken has loads of local restaurants that serve all the staples of Swiss cuisine . Raclette and fondue are the best-known cheese dishes, and I highly recommend you begin your culinary exploration with the latter. Dip pieces of toasted bread into a bucket of hot, melted cheese, as you sip on a dry white wine. It’s what dreams are made of. 

You can even take it a step further and attend a fondue workshop if you want. Fondue Villa is a local cooking class in Unterseen, where you can learn how to make the Swiss national dish. And when you’re done, you get to eat the fondue, which is by far the best part of the workshop. 

Practical Information: Fondue is a dish meant to be shared, and it’s usually 30-40 CHF per person. The fondue cooking class lasts two and a half hours and costs 99 CHF. 

3. Stroll Around Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a picturesque village roughly 40 minutes from Interlaken, accessible by direct trains. We have visited Grindelwald three times and absolutely love it. In the winter, it is a popular ski resort with countless luxury hotels and a fabulous apres-ski scene. Grindelwald is also the starting point for many hikes in the region, the most notable of which are the trails leading up to First and Eiger. 

On top of that, the trains to Jungfraujoch depart from here, and I highly recommend you take at least a couple of hours when returning from the mountain saddle to explore the charming village. Grindelwald is also a popular base for skiers in the winter. No surprises there, as it offers hundreds of kilometers of excellent ski pistes in the Jungfrau Ski Region. 

Practical Information: Grindelwald is a 40-minute train ride from Interlaken. Tickets are 11 CHF. 

4. See The Waterfalls In The Lauterbrunnen Valley 

With 72 waterfalls, it’s no surprise that the Lauterbrunnen Valley is better known as the Valley of Waterfalls. Board a train at Interlaken, and in about 20 minutes, you will arrive at the Lauterbrunnen village, where the discovery tour begins. Staubbach Fall is one of the valley’s best-known waterfalls, dramatically rushing down the cliffs in the backdrop of the village, and you’ll spot it as soon as you exit the train station. 

It takes a little more than an hour to walk from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg . During the walk, you’ll see dozens of waterfalls and even pass by Trummelbachfalle. This system of cave waterfalls, which I’ll tell you more about later, is absolutely a worthy detour. Buses can take you back to Lauterbrunnen from Stechelberg. 

Insider Tip: Staubbach Waterfall is the most spectacular shortly after rain. 

Practical Information: Lauterbrunnen is a 20-minute train ride from Interlaken. Full-priced one-way tickets are 7.80 CHF. 

5. Tour Thun Castle 

Thun Castle is the most famous landmark in the namesake town. Situated on the far west shore of Lake Thun, the town is one of the best places to visit on a day trip from Interlaken. You can travel there by bus, train, or boat – I highly recommend that last mode of transport because it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a cruise on Lake Thun. 

The castle towers over Thun’s Old Town, offering epic views of the city’s red rooftops and the lake in the background. Visit the castle museum to learn more about its more than 900-year history. 

The museum exhibit spans six floors, beginning at the castle cellar. The tour ends at the towers, which offer the best panoramic view in the city. When you’re done touring Thun Castle, head down to the Old Town to wander around the cobblestone alleys before you need to return to Interlaken.  

Practical Information: Thun is a 30-minute train ride from Interlaken. Tickets are around 15 CHF. 

6. Enjoy The View From Harder Kulm 

Harder Kulm is Interlaken’s home mountain, accessible by hiking trails and funicular rides from the town. The funicular is quicker and easier, but hiking is better if you don’t want to overspend in Switzerland. It takes roughly four hours to hike up the mountain and back. 

The trail is steep and challenging, so it’s recommended only for intermediate and experienced hikers. Beginners should stick to the funicular and maybe attempt to hike back down the mountain and into Interlaken. 

The view from Harder Kulm is magical. You can see the entire town, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and many surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent spot for a romantic Fondue dinner with a wonderful panoramic view, Dave and Deb approved! 

Practical Information: The funicular to Harder Kulm departs from Interlaken Ost train station. Tickets are 38 CHF, and the ride is 10 minutes. 

7. Walk In The Footsteps Of James Bond At Piz Gloria

Piz Gloria is a revolving restaurant at the top of Mount Schilthorn. The place is famous for serving as Blofeld’s lair in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service . In fact, the restaurant’s construction was rushed for filming purposes, and nowadays, there’s an entire museum dedicated to James Bond at the top of the mountain. 

Eat a 007 burger and get a martini – shaken, not stirred, of course! You can even try the flight simulator that will make you feel like the man himself for a couple of moments, and even experience a simulated bobsleigh ride. Don’t forget to go outside onto the viewing platform, to enjoy the sight of 200+ peaks in the Swiss Alps. 

I must also mention Birg, the only station where the gondola stops before Schilthorn. It’s absolutely worth it to get out here for the views and the Birg Thrill Walk, which will have you standing on a glass platform above the abyss. 

Practical Information: Interlaken to Schilthorn via Lauterbrunnen takes about an hour and 20 minutes. Return tickets are 132.80 CHF. 

8. Hike The Mannlichen Panorama Trail

Mannlichen Panoramaweg (panorama trail) is one of the best easy hiking trails near Interlaken. Hike from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg for roughly an hour and a half while you enjoy captivating views of the Swiss Alps towering above you. 

The hike can be done in either direction, but it’s easier if you start at Mannlichen because you will be walking downhill (this is the way we did it). The trail is mostly a wide gravel path that is very easy to follow and features no technical difficulty. It’s suitable even for total hiking newbies, and it will make you wish you could be at this majestic mountain every weekend. 

The trailhead is at the Mannlichen gondola station, which is accessible in about an hour from Interlaken. First, you take a train to Grindelwald, where you board a gondola that takes you to the Mannlichen summit. 

Practical Information: One-way tickets from Interlaken to Mannlichen are 45 CHF. The hiking trail is 4.5 kilometers long in one direction. 

9. Visit St. Beatus Caves

Situated on the northeastern shore of Lake Thun, St. Beatus Caves is another spectacular natural landmark close to Interlaken. The place is accessible by bus, but also by various walking and cycling paths from the heart of the town. 

Lit walkways guide you through the caves as you wander from one chamber into the other. This is one of the ten largest cave systems in Switzerland, spanning an area of roughly 14 kilometers. Only one kilometer is open for public tours, but it’s enough to impress visitors with its magnificence. 

Practical Information: Tours of St. Beatus Caves are available seasonally, usually from 9 AM to 6 PM. Tickets are 17-19 CHF for adults.  

10. Discover Trümmelbach Falls

I’ve already mentioned Trümmelbach Falls briefly, but this is such a great attraction that it deserves its own entry on the list. Situated just some 40 minutes from Interlaken, this cave system of glacial waterfalls is one of the best natural landmarks in central Switzerland. 

Ten glacial waterfalls are hidden inside the mountain, and you can discover all of them by following the dedicated walking paths. Glacial waters from Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch are drained in these waterfalls, and sometimes as much as 20,000 cubic liters per second rush through the mountain. It’s no surprise that Trummelbach Falls is designated a UNSECO World Heritage Site, as they’re truly one of the most captivating natural landmarks near Interlaken. 

Insider Tip: The walking paths at Trummelbach Falls are often slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. 

Practical Information: Between April and November, Trummelbach Falls is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The entrance fee is 14 CHF. 

11. Paragliding Over The Lakes

Interlaken is very popular for paragliding. I don’t think most travelers understand just how popular until they arrive at the town and notice the amount of parachutes constantly visible in the sky. Hohematte Park is the usual landing spot in the town and the best place to hang out if you want to watch the paragliders in action. 

If, on the other hand, you want to experience the adrenaline rush that can only come from soaring high above a town, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Interlaken. The best operator in town is Paragliding Interlaken. Arrange a flight with them to soar over the lakes and experience a birds-eye view of this picturesque town. You’ll depart from Beatenberg and spend 10-20 minutes in the air before you land at Hohemate Park.

Longer flights are also available, but they’re usually double the price of regular ones. It’s worth the money if you enjoy being in the air because hardly anyone does tandem paragliding, as well as the Swiss. 

Practical Information: Paragliding in Interlaken is available in the summer and winter. The average price of a 10-20-minute flight is 180 CHF.  

12. Lake Oeschinen

Lake Oeschinen is one of the prettiest mountain lakes in Switzerland and probably the only reason to rent a car in Switzerland. It’s only a 45-minute drive from Interlaken to the gondola’s bottom station in Kandersteg, but traveling by train takes at least an hour.

Oeschinensee features beaches, hiking trails, and surreal views all around. In the summer, you can ride boats or rush down the toboggan from the top gondola station. There are so many ways to stay busy at this lake, even if you’re traveling with children. And if you happen to be at Oeschinensee in the winter, you can enjoy skiing, ice skating, and sledding. 

Practical Information: It takes about 2 hours to travel to Oeschienen Lake from Interlaken by public transport (train to Kandersteg via Spiez and gondola to the lake). Full-priced tickets are 52 CHF, and various discounts are available. 

13. Ride a Cogweheel Train to Schynige Platte 

Cogwheel trains have transported passengers from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte since the late 19th century. They operate only in the summer, and riding the train up the mountain is a fabulous experience in Switzerland. Widlerswil is a village south of Interlaken, just a 5-minute train ride away. 

The mountain plateau is most popular for hiking and paragliding. There’s also an Alpine Botanical Garden with an interesting collection of plants native to the region. The entrance is free for anyone who buys tickets for the cogwheel train. 

Also, Alphorn players entertain the travelers daily. The instrument is a crucial element of Swiss culture, especially in the mountains, so the free concert is an excellent opportunity to better understand the local traditions. 

Practical Information: It takes roughly an hour to travel from Interlaken to Schynige Platte. Tickets are 71.2 CHF. 

14. Visit Jungfraujoch, The Top of Europe

Jungfraujoch is a mountain saddle roughly 90 minutes from Interlaken. It is one of Switzerland’s best-known attractions and a fabulous place you need to visit if you’re already in Interlaken. The mountain saddle is best known for Top of Europe, a visitor’s complex that’s home to the highest train station and post office on the continent. 

As you ride the trains up to Jungfraujoch , you will get to experience magical views of the Swiss Alps. Before you arrive at the destination, the train makes one five-minute stop, so you can see the Aletsch Glacier from a viewing room. 

Top of Europe features an observation deck, an ice palace, and an Alpine fun park with summer skiing. The visitor’s center also has shops and restaurants, including Europe’s highest Lindt store, where you can observe expert chocolatiers at work. Also, the views of Jungfrau, Eiger, and Monch from the visitor’s center are out of this world. 

Insider Tip: Bring postcards so you can mail them to friends and family from Europe’s highest post office. 

Practical Information: It takes 90-120 minutes to travel from Interlaken to the Top of Europe. Full-priced return tickets (with Eiger Express Gondola ride) are 224 CHF, and discounts are available with various travel passes. 

15. Day Trip To Bern 

Bern is a wonderful city just an hour from Interlaken by train. It is the de facto capital of Switzerland, and its old town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, Bern offers many traditional landmarks and tourist attractions, and it’s a great place to visit if you want to tour museums, walk around cobblestone alleys, and see some classic Swiss landmarks. 

Bern’s top landmarks include fountains scattered throughout the old town, the Zytglogge clock tower, the bear with (with actual bears), the rose garden, and the Käfigturm tower. Einstein House is the best museum in town; it’s the flat where the famous scientists once lived and still features many of its original furnishings. 

A walking tour of Bern is the best way to get acquainted with the city and discover all the top sights on a day trip from Interlaken. 

Practical Information: Bern is roughly a one-hour train ride from Interlaken. One-way tickets are 31.2 CHF.

16. Ride Mountain Carts at First

First is a mountain summit accessible by train and gondola via Grindelwald. There are quite a few fun things to do at the top of the mountain, including a thrilling zipline and the iconic First Cliff Walk. 

But the mountain carts at the Schreckfeld station are by far the most fun. You’ll follow the curvy mountain road down the mountain to the gondola’s bottom station. It’s a perfectly safe activity suitable even for children, and I think renting the carts might be cheaper than paying for the gondola ride down the mountain. 

Practical Information: Mountain carts at First are available from May through October. The cost for adults is 21 CHF per mountain cart. 

17. Make Chocolates At The Funky Chocolate Club

Funky Chocolate Club is an artisan shop in Interlaken that organizes workshops. Experienced chocolatiers teach you the ins and outs of their craft. You can participate in the chocolate-making process, and at the end of it, you can eat the fruits of your labor. 

If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, this is one of the most fun things to do in Interlaken. You’ll learn a new skill, and you’ll have handmade chocolates to bring home as gifts for friends and family. Well, if you can stop yourself from devouring them on the spot. Even if you don’t like the idea of making chocolates, stop by the Funky Chocolate Club for coffee and dessert.

Practical Information: The Funky Chocolate Club offers a chocolate-making workshop thrice daily. The cost is 69 CHF per participant. 

18. Scenic Boat Ride on Lake Brienz

The picturesque Lake Brienz is my favorite in Switzerland, thanks to its gorgeous turquoise color. The lake actually owes its color to glacial waters that drain from the nearby mountains, which also means that its water is always on the chilly side. 

Boat rides on Lake Brienz are not only a fabulous tourist experience but also a legit way to travel from one town on the shore to the next. So, head to the harbor in Interlaken and board a BLS-Schiff boat.

Ride it all the way to Brienz to see as much of the lovely lake as possible, or get off at one of the earlier stations. Iseltwald is a lovely little town on the shore with a castle and lots of walking paths. Giessbach is also a worthy detour, thanks to the impressive Giessbach Waterfall. 

Practical Information: Boat rides on Lake Brienz are available throughout the year but are most common in the summer season. Travelers with the Interlaken Guest Card can get a 20% discount on day passes for cruises. 

19. Skiing in The Jungfrau Ski Region

Although Interlaken is best experienced in warm weather when you explore all the hiking trails and embark on fun water adventures, the region is immensely popular even in the winter months. That’s because of the Jungfrau Ski Region, which is one of the best in the entire country. 

It encompasses three resorts: Grindelwald-Wengen, Grindelwald-First , and Mürren-Schilthorn. That’s more than 200 kilometers of ski pistes, with everything from easy blue runs to extremely challenging black runs. Even the Lauberhorn ski pistes are part of the Jungfrau Ski Region, and that’s one of the most popular events of the Ski World Cup. 

A ski bus is available to transport passengers from the villages and towns to the pistes in the Alps. Anyone who buys the Jungfrau Ski Pass gets to ride the bus for free. 

Practical Information: The Jungfrau Ski Region ski pass starts at 75 CHF for a daily pass and goes up to 428 CHF for a weekly pass.  

20. Attempt the Mürren-Gimmelwald Via Ferrata

This summer adventure is reserved only for experienced climbers, so skip to the next activity if you don’t have lots of experience with rock climbing. The Mürren-Gimmelwald Via Ferrata is a three-hour trail over the cliffs of Murren. 

It’s a very challenging climbing route with some of the best views in central Switzerland. You’re treated to interrupted vistas of the Swiss Alps and the tiny villages in the valley. Just ensure you’re not distracted by those panoramic views because you can’t afford to take one wrong step. 

If it’s your first via Ferrata, it’s best to do it with an experienced local guide. Otherwise, feel free to attempt the climb on your own; it’s actually not that difficult if you know what you’re doing, and much of the path is just hiking through the forest. 

Practical Information: Gear rental is available at Intersport Murren for 30 CHF. 

21. Oberhofen Castle

Oberhofen Castle is another grand chateau on the shore of Lake Thun. It dates back to the 13th century and features opulent rooms with period furnishings. The castle’s highlight is the oriental smoking parlor on the top floor, which was inspired by Count Albert de Pourtalès’s time in Istanbul. 

Touring the castle is a wonderful experience that offers insight into Bernese culture. The Castle Park is equally impressive, with beautifully landscaped gardens and waterfront walking paths. The park is also accessible longer, as it only closes for visitors in the winter months. 

Practical Information: Oberhofen Castle is open for tours from May to October, usually from 11 AM to 5 PM. Admission to the castle museum is 14 CHF. 

22. Go Canyoning 

Canyoning is another classic Interlaken adventure that will get your blood running. The local operators offer three different canyoning experiences depending on skill levels. Canyoning in Interlaken is easiest, Grimsel Canyon is for adventurers with some previous experience, while Chli Schliere Canyon can increase the heart rate of even the most experienced canyoners. 

In Interlaken, canyoning is done with the help of local guides who provide all the necessary gear. You will jump, slide, and rappel down the rock faces as you traverse through the narrow gorges. This activity is suitable even for complete beginners, and it’s an excellent way to spend an afternoon if you want to try something new and exciting in Interlaken. 

Practical Information: Canyoning in Interlaken is available between April and October. The price for a three-hour adventure is 150-230 CHF, depending on the canyoning destination.  

23. Try Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting is the best thing to do in Interlaken for travelers who love having fun on the water. It might not be as thrilling as canyon swings or via Ferratas, but it’s certainly an exciting experience that you’ll remember forever. 

Rafting on the Lütschine River is even suitable for families, so it’s a lovely way to spend a day if you’re traveling with kids in Switzerland and you can’t exactly take them paragliding. Rafting adventures usually include 2 hours of time on the water, plus the transport to and from Interlaken. 

And for those of you who aren’t really looking for an adrenaline rush, it’s worth noting that even Raclette Rafting is a thing in Interlaken. It’s exactly what it sounds like – you charter a boat for eight people and you’re treated to a Raclette dinner as you slowly glide along the water from Bönigen to Interlaken.  

Practical Information: Rafting in Interlaken is available from May to September. The prices start at 135 CHF per person. 

24. Excursion To Lucerne

Lucerne is my favorite city in Switzerland , and if you’ve never been before, this is the perfect opportunity. It’s only a two-hour train ride from Interlaken, but the landscapes you see through the window are captivating enough to make that time pass in the blink of an eye. 

When you exit the train station in Lucerne, cross the iconic Chapel Bridge into the old town. Admire the pastel buildings and stand at the square in front of the Rathaus. Head west to climb onto Museggmauer – the old city wall with towers that offer epic panoramic views of Lucerne’s skyline. 

Don’t miss out on the Lion Monument, either, as it’s one of the city’s most famous landmarks. It’s close to the Glacier Garden and the Bourbaki Panorama, both fabulous museums that will keep you busy for an hour or two. 

Practical Information: Lucerne is a two-hour train ride from Interlaken. One-way tickets are 34 CHF. 

25. Hike The Eiger Trail 

Head to the Eigergletscher station to set out on one of the best hikes in central Switzerland . Follow the path along the north face of the Eiger mountain, enjoying mesmerizing vistas as you descend towards Alpiglen. 

The trail can be walked in either direction, but it’s much easier to do it from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen because it’s almost entirely downhill. Avid hikers will be glad to know that they can combine this hike with the Mannlichen Panorama Trail for an epic afternoon full of adventure. 

Practical Information: The easy version of the trail is 6 kilometers long and takes roughly 2-3 hours to complete.

26. Dip Your Toes in Fallbodensee

Lake Brienz and Lake Thun are both stunning, but they lack the charm of quaint Alpine lakes. This is precisely why you should visit Fallbodensee, a tiny mountain lake at the foot of the Eiger. 

Enjoy the view of the tall summits reflected in the lake’s still surface, and dip your toes in the cold water if you dare. I say pack a picnic and secure a spot on the shore because the majestic scenery of the Alps makes any food taste a thousand times better. 

Also, if you’re someone who enjoys hiking a lot, you should know that you can easily hike from Kleine Scheidegg to Fallbodensee in roughly 30 minutes. If you continue towards Eigerglestcher, you can even do the Eiger Trail in the same afternoon. 

Practical Information: Fallbodensee is accessible by hiking trails from Eigergletscher and Kleine Scheidegg. 

27. Discover The Allmendhubel Flower Trail

The Allmendhubel Flower Trail is an easy hike from Murren. Accessible from Interlaken by train in roughly an hour, the village is tucked away in the mountains above Lauterbrunnen and Stechelberg. 

The trail begins at the Mürren train station and follows the path up the mountain for about three kilometers. It’s an easy hike that takes an hour to complete and with minimal elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll spot fields of wildflowers, but only if you do this hike in late spring or summer. 

There’s a playground at Allmendhubel, making this hike a wonderful family-friendly activity. There’s also a restaurant where adults can sit down to enjoy some Swiss delicacies while their little ones play around. 

Practical Information: The Allmendhubel Flower Trail is a moderately difficult hike doable in spring and summer. It takes about an hour to reach the trailhead in Mürren from Interlaken, and train tickets are 20 CHF. 

28. Cross The Sigriswil Panoramic Bridge

Suspension bridges are quite common in Switzerland, and of course, there’s one near Interlaken. The Sigriswil Panoramic Bridge stretches for 340 meters, connecting Sigriswil with Aeschlen. It offers fabulous views of the surrounding mountains, and the vista includes Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. 

However, if you’re not comfortable with heights, you might want to skip this activity. The bridge allows you to cross the Gummischlucht Gorge, and the sight of the abyss below might be terrifying for some. As you walk across the bridge, you can see the bottom of the gorge roughly 180 meters below. 

Practical Information: The Sigriswil Panoramic Bridge is open year-round. There is a fee of 8 CHF to cross it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 2 Days Enough In Interlaken? 

In two days it’s possible to explore the town of Interlaken, visit Harder Kulm, go on a boat ride, and do one excursion to a nearby village or mountain. But it’s not enough for a thorough exploration of the Jungfrau region. 

Is Interlaken Worth Visiting?

Yes, Interlaken is absolutely worth visiting. Thanks to its abundance of outdoor activities, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland. 

Why Is Interlaken So Famous?

Interlaken is famous because of its proximity to some of Switzerland’s best-known tourist attractions. Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, Trummelbachfalle, and Schynigge Platte are all close to Interlaken, and the town is an excellent base for exploring central Switzerland. 

What is the prettiest part of Interlaken?

Harder Kulm is the prettiest part of Interlaken. The mountain offers a magical view of the town, lakes Thun and Brienz, and countless mountain summits in the backdrop. 

Where To Stay In Interlaken

Interlaken is a small town, and no matter where you stay, the top attractions and things to do will be close. What you need to consider the most when choosing a hotel in Interlaken is your budget. Switzerland is very expensive , and a night at one of the cheapest hotels in Interlaken is comparable to at least a mid-range hotel elsewhere in Europe. 

There’s no shortage of luxury hotels in this town, and you’ll be spoiled for choice if you want to be pampered during your stay. Here are some of the best hotels in Interlaken for all budgets: 

• Interlaken Youth Hostel is one of the most affordable options in the town, situated right next to the Interlaken Ost train station. 
• Metropole Swiss Quality Hotel is an excellent mid-range hotel on Höheweg, the main street in Interlaken.
• Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is the city’s best five-star hotel with luxury rooms and premium service. 

Tips And Information For Visiting Interlaken

Best Time to Visit

Summer is the best time to visit Interlaken, especially if you want to hike in the Swiss Alps. In the winter, much of the region is covered with snow, making the trails inaccessible. Mountain trains also stop running for the winter, drastically reducing the number of things to do in Interlaken and its surroundings. 

Late spring and early fall are also good times to travel to Interlaken, especially if you want smaller crowds. Just double- and triple-check that everything you want to visit is open, and accept that you likely won’t be able to swim in the lake. 

Getting There

Zurich Airport is the busiest one in Switzerland but also the closest to Interlaken. It’s roughly a two-hour train ride from the airport to the town, and this is by far the best and most convenient way of arriving at Interlaken. Direct trains to Interlaken depart from the airport and a one-way ticket costs 77 CHF. 

The second-best option is to fly into Geneva airport, which is the second busiest in the country. The standard travel time from Geneva to Interlaken is 3 hours. This is a good option if you want to explore the towns on the shore of Lake Geneva over a couple of days. 

Getting Around

Swiss trains are legendary for their efficiency and punctuality and they’re by far the best ways of traveling in the region. Several villages near Interlaken are entirely car-free, plus driving is often much slower than taking the train, so car rental rarely makes sense in Switzerland. 

Also, the region around Interlaken is home to many wonderful mountain trains, gondolas, and funiculars. Riding in those is often an incredible experience, so just stick to public transport in Switzerland. Get yourself a Swiss Travel Pass to save money on train tickets, and use the SBB app to check for upcoming train connections. Interlaken is serviced by two train stations – Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost, both of which offer connections to many other towns and cities in Switzerland. 

Additionally, you should know that anyone who stays in accommodation registered with the Interlaken Tourist Board (hotels, hostels, some apartments, etc.) should get the Interlaken Visitors Card. This grants you free rides on the regular trains and busses in the region, as well as discounts for mountain trains and boat rides.  

How Much Time Do You Need

How long you should stay in Interlaken depends largely on what you want to do in the region. A shorter stay of 3-5 days is enough to visit the major tourist attractions. 

But if you want to thoroughly explore the Jungfrau region and all of its thrilling hiking trails, you need at least a week. The same goes for ski trips, especially if you want to go to multiple resorts and check out as many pistes as possible. Overall, it doesn’t matter if you book a stay of three days or three weeks in Interlaken as you’ll have plenty of things to do in the region. 

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Interlaken Tourist Information Office

The official tourist office of Interlaken Tourism in Interlaken

The highlights in interlaken tourist information office.

• Train, boat tickets and ski passes
• Hotel, hostel, holiday apartment and campsite bookings
• Interlaken souvenirs
• Personal, individual advice
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• January 3, 2022 May 14, 2024

Last Updated on May 14, 2024 by Darla

There is a debate about whether Interlaken is even worth visiting. Some people think it’s a great place overall, but others think it’s a tourist trap with overrated shops and hotels. So which is it? Is it worth visiting Interlaken, Switzerland? Here’s what you need to know about whether Interlaken is worth a visit. 

Interlaken, Switzerland is an incredibly popular tourist hub in the Bernese Oberland . It’s perfect – situated between two lakes, near the Jungfrau Mountain Range, and accessible from Zurich. In fact, its Latin name is Inter Lacus , which means between lakes. As one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist spots, Interlaken is also a hot spot for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

Is Interlaken Worth Visiting?

Does Interlaken’s town even deserve a visit?  Yes ,  Interlaken is worth visiting for its majestic scenery between two stunning Alpine lakes, wide range of thrilling activities such as skydiving and paragliding, extensive mountain trails, proximity to the Jungfrau Region, and traditional Swiss architecture and customs.

Interlaken is more than just a single street with hotels and jewelry stores. There’s a lot to see than that, including boat trips to Lakes Thun and Brienz on both sides of the city, as well as train and cable car rides to the mountains nearby. Try an adventure, admire the views from Harder Kulm , or shop too. 

High winter peaks, beautiful scenery with sailing opportunities on Lake Thun , and the opportunity to walk, hike, and bike make Interlaken a real gem. 

The following article will detail the 8 reasons   why Interlaken is a good place to visit  in Switzerland.

1. Interlaken Has Exciting Adventure Experiences on Offer

For those who are into fun adventures, below are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Interlaken :

• Tandem Paragliding (GetYourGuide): Experience pure serenity as you float weightlessly alongside an experienced pilot and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Jungfrau region from the sky.
• Adventure Park (GetYourGuide): Conquer 9 thrilling rope courses and zip lines soaring up to 23 meters above the ground, with the assurance of a comprehensive safety briefing and top-notch safety gear.
• Kayak Tour of Lake Brienz (GetYourGuide): Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Lake Brienz with the guidance of an experienced coach, as you soak in the stunning views, including the picturesque Rinngenberg Castle. You may also book this activity in winter (GetYourGuide).
• Canyoning (GetYourGuide): Dive into the ultimate adrenaline rush with a canyoning expedition in Chli Schilere , featuring challenging rappelling, high jumps, fast slides, and an unforgettable adventure in one of the region’s top canyons.
• Scenic Jetboat Ride (GetYourGuide): Experience an exhilarating 45 to 50-minute jetboat ride on Lake Brienz near Interlaken, culminating at Giessbach Falls .

2. You Can Enjoy Fantastic Views From Harder Kulm

Right above Interlaken and Unterseen, 1,321 meters above sea level, is Harder Kulm .

Harder Kulm can be reached from Interlaken by walking through the English Garden and crossing the bridge to the Interlaken Harderbahn. Interlaken Ost railway station is only six minutes away from Harder Kulm Valley Station. In 10 minutes, the funicular will take you from Interlaken to Harder Kulm. There is one departure per half hour.

Near the funicular mountain station, there is a viewing platform that provides a fantastic view of the Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz. There is also a view of Interlaken itself right in the middle. Harder Kulm is also a great place to hike – one to Augstmatthorn, and one through the forest to Interlaken.

You can also get delicious food at the Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant . On the last Sunday of every month, they have a Sunday brunch.

Harder Kulm is open from April until the end of October. From mid-April to mid-October, they also offer evening trips. You can book tickets to Harder Kulm on GetYourGuide .

Alternative: Heimwehfluh, Interlaken

If you would like to try another viewpoint, you can also check out Heimwehfluh . Heimwehfluh offers a captivating alternative to Harder Kulm, conveniently located just a few minutes away from Interlaken West station. The nostalgic car ride up the mountain takes you to a place that not only offers breathtaking views but also provides a host of exciting adventures suitable for all ages.

From exhilarating toboggan runs to a captivating model railway, Heimwehfluh offers diverse activities to engage in. Additionally, you can savor delicious meals at their panoramic restaurant while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Children can also delight in the dedicated playground designed just for them. While perhaps not as widely recognized and as well-maintained as Harder Kulm, Heimwehfluh is definitely a destination worth exploring.

3. You can visit Lake Thun from Interlaken

Interlaken  is a beautiful town between the lakes of Thun and Brienz . Both lakes are very accessible and you can see mountains and cities reflected in their crystal clear waters. 

Lakes Thun and Brienz are easily accessible and well worth a visit for their incredibly crystal clear waters and the reflections of mountains and cities in the lakes. These, along with castles and nostalgic train rides, make Interlaken a must-see.

In the Jungfrau Region,  passenger boats  run on  Lake Thun  from April to October.  The regular service enables guests to visit other destinations along the lake by boat. 

Boats on Lake Thun are behind Interlaken West train station. Ride the boat Blümlisalp if you want to ride a steamer. Boats in Lake Thun stop in Neuhaus (Unterseen), Beatushöhlen-Sundlauenen, Leissinge, Beatenbucht, Merlingen, Faulensee, Spiez , Gunten, Einigen, Gwatt Deltapark, Längenschachen, Oberhofen am Thunersee, Hilterfingen, Hünibach, and Thun.

Regular service allows guests to visit other destinations along the lake by boat. From April to October, passenger boats run on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the Jungfrau Region. 

Besides riding the boats (steamer or not) and stopping at towns, you can also swim at places like the Thun Lido.  

Among Switzerland’s largest pool complexes is Thun Lido. In addition to the 50-meter and 10-meter pools, there is a 25-meter training pool, a pool for non-swimmers, a large slide, a 10-meter springboard (also with lower springboards), and a beach volleyball court.

If you would like to read more about Lake Thun , you can check out our article 8 Best Things to Do in Lake Thun, Switzerland .

4. T ake a Steamer across Lake Brienz

Like Lake Thun, the shores of Lake Brienz also have attractions worth visiting from Interlaken. In the Jungfrau Region,  passenger boats  run on Lake Brienz  from April to October.  The regular service enables guests to visit other destinations along the lake by boat. 

The boats in Lake Brienz can be seen behind Interlaken Ost train station . In Lake Brienz, boats stop in Böningen, Ringgenberg, Niederried, Iseltwald , Oberried, Giessbach , and Brienz. You can also visit the towns where the boats stop.

If you want to ride a steamer, you can ride the Lötschberg on Lake Brienz.

If you wish to see the list of steamer boats, check out our article   Ultimate List of Steamboats in Switzerland’s Lakes .

5. You can explore Interlaken

Located in the Bernese Oberland, Interlaken is a beautiful city that is an ideal base for exploring this region. It is surrounded by the Aare River and offers views of nearby mountains like the Grosse Rugen. 

Interlaken in the Bernese Oberland, by the River Aare. There’s a main street called the Höheweg that connects the train stations –  Interlaken Ost  and  Interlaken West . This street is full of hotels, cafes, souvenir shops, and watch shops. Along this street are the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel and the Casino Kursaal.

The Japanese Garden is another pretty spot in Interlaken. It’s close to the old monastery and the church.

6. You can shop a lot

The main shopping area in Interlaken is  Höheweg . There are several Kirchhofer, souvenir, and chocolate shops. There are also other watch shops such as Bucherer.

There are Swiss, Korean, Italian, and Indian restaurants in Interlaken. There are also Migros and Coop restaurants, which are cheaper. 

7. You can walk along the Aare River

You can see the Jungfrau mountains from Höheweg . You can cross the bridge leading to Harder Kulm after passing through Höhematte and the Japanese Garden. It’s a beautiful promenade along the Aare River. You can follow this path to Unterseen. 

8. You can visit the Historic Village of Bönigen and the Village Museum

Almost all of Bönigen has been built up around Interlaken, a resort town nearby. The town of Bönigen is situated in the Bernese Oberland on the southwest shore of Lake Brienz, near the point where the Lütschine empties into the lake.

Bönigen still keeps its rural character by keeping its traditions alive. A complex of wooden houses & chalets dates back to the 16th century in the idyllic village of Bönigen on the lower shore of Lake Brienz. The village center lies in the northwest part of the municipality along the Lütschine and up to the lake.

The entire village of Bönigen is designated as part of the inventory of Swiss heritage sites.

Alte Pinte Village Museum

A chalet has been converted into a museum called Alte Pinte . This village museum emphasizes the culture, the crafts, and the simple life of Bernese Oberland. Part of the museum is reserved as a showroom exhibiting locals’ artworks.

Admission to the museum is free from May to October.

Summary: 8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is one of the best travel destinations in Switzerland, with its high peaks offering some of the best winter activities, beautiful scenery, cruising opportunities on Lakes Thun and Brienz, and many other outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and biking. Many mountain activities can be enjoyed all year round in this region.

In addition to being one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations, Interlaken is also a popular destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Interlaken is not only a fantastic place to base yourself , but it is also a great place to visit with its activities and beautiful location.

Is Interlaken not suitable for all tourists?

It might not be the best place if you only want to focus on mountains or hiking. Perhaps the mountain villages of  Wengen  or  Mürren  would be a better choice for you. And if you would rather explore Central Switzerland,  Lucerne  might be a better option.

If you would rather visit a pretty town with historic buildings, then nearby Thun is a better option. And for those who want a larger city, then the federal city of Bern is a better place to visit.

Is Interlaken the right place for you?

Interlaken is an excellent option if you want to experience more than just the mountains of the Bernese Oberland. It is perfect for those who want an adventure or want to buy something from one of the tourist or jewelry shops in town.

I hope you will find Interlaken as charming as I do. Have fun!

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Darla is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country. Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

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Tourist Information Interlaken

Description.

The Tourist Information Office team is here to help you on the Postplatz in the centre of Interlaken: It can help you find the accommodation or restaurant you are looking for. It can advise you if you’re looking for excursions, activities and experiences. Train and boat tickets, ski passes and a variety of other offers are on sale in the office. The well-informed team can, of course, also tell you what particular local events will be happening during your stay and suggest special offers that might be of interest to you.

The highlights in Interlaken Tourist Information Office

Train, boat tickets and ski passes

Hotel, hostel, holiday apartment and campsite bookings

Interlaken souvenirs

Personal, individual advice

Extensive information and brochures

• Switzerland

59 Fun Things to Do in Interlaken, Switzerland

• 13 Pinterest

With sights of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, and the towering, snow-capped mountains of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau – Interlaken will completely captivate you with its everlasting beauty and outstanding alpine landscape.

Known as the adventure capital of Switzerland, Interlaken is the perfect destination for those seeking a vacation filled with adrenaline. From bungee jumping and paragliding to rafting or skiing, the list of thrilling activities is endless and will keep you entertained throughout the whole year.

Of course, other than skiing and winter sports, Interlaken is also known as a hot spot for Swiss delicacies! Sample the best Swiss cheeses, fondue, bread, chocolate, and other rich Swiss dishes on a food tour!

Lastly, don’t miss your chance to see the world’s tallest fountain at Jet d’Eau, a perfect spot to feel refreshed after walking around the city’s Old Town and scenic parks and trails.

Let’s get inspired, and dive deeper into why Interlaken should be on your bucket list of places to see at least once in your life with this list of 53 fun things to do in Interlaken , Switzerland.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Interlaken tours

1 – Take a picture under your flag at the Palais des Nations

Visit the historic and charming old town of Interlaken called Unterseen, and get away to a sight of medieval buildings, and old-world food markets, surrounded by dramatic and enchanting mountains, as you walk along the Aare river.

Take a look at some of the sights in the center, such as the Stadtkeller, a small yet charming performing arts theater with a restaurant inside, and the Tourismuseum, which showcases the history of tourism in Interlaken from learning about Alpine tourism, to learning about the souvenir business and the hotel industry and more.

If you’re looking for a nature escape while in Unterseen, you can’t miss visiting Höhematte, a beautiful and large open park, with incredible views of the mountains, and the town’s architecture, and colorful hang gliders above.

• walking tours in Interlaken

2 – Pack a picnic and head to Höhematte Park

Take advantage of the 35-acre Höhematte Park, situated in the heart of historic Unterseen, to plan a picnic, gather with friends, play some football, or simply lay out and stretch on the grassy fields while looking up at the majestic Swiss Alps.

Only an 18-minute walk from city center Interlaken, Höhematte Park also has local coffee shops with terraces offering a great seat to catch the adventurous hang glides dropping to the earth, making for an amazing afternoon plan.

Enjoy a scenic walk, passing beautiful gardens, and even a flower-made clock that tells time. Take a moment to visit the bronze statue of the Hindi filmmaker Yash Chopra inaugurated in 2016, attracting the attention of curious travelers.

3 – Share the love for Interlaken with the Statue Of Yash Chopra

Located inside the idyllic Höhematte Park is the statue of Yash Chopra, built to honor the filmmaker’s efforts in popularizing Alpine tourism through his films to the Indian population.

The bronze statue weighing 350 kilograms is a replica of the original statue situated in Mumbai and is only one of the ways in which Chopra has been honored in Switzerland.

Chopra’s love and fascination for the Swiss Alps were always well known in his films, with productions like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge featuring the iconic Swiss countryside, recognized as one of the most successful Bollywood films to date.

He is seen in Switzerland as an ambassador of sorts, receiving honors from the Swiss government throughout his life, and even after his death.

Make sure to stop by, and bond with the love and appreciation that Chopra had for Interlaken.

4 – Catch 12th-century architecture and incredible natural colors at Lake Brienz

Found northeast of Interlaken is the picturesque Lake Brienz, a turquoise blue-colored river surrounded by jagged moss-covered mountains, adding a beautiful contrast of bright natural colors.

Aside from the stunning natural sights, Lake Brienz is great for an abundance of water activities, from stand-up paddleboarding and jet tours to quaint boat tours allowing you to enjoy every minute on the water, in different ways.

Consider looking through our list of the best kayaking tours in Interlaken , and soak up the sun and views of the 12th-century Ringgenberg Castle, with a small group of kayakers, as you’re led by a professional.

For something a bit faster, hop on one of the most thrilling jet boat tours in Interlaken, to really take your adventurous self for a spin!

• Lake Brienz tours

5 – Get a glimpse of the unique Alpine animals at Wild Park

Have you ever imagined what Alpine animals look like? These are animals that are typically from the Alpine region of Switzerland, and situated at the bottom of the Interlaken mountains is their home, Wild Park.

Home to animals like Ibexes and Marmots amongst other incredible wild animals, Wild Park offers people of all ages an amazing connection with nature and animals, and a connection to the local natural scenery of Interlaken.

While you’re visiting the Wild Park, stop by Hohbühl Pavilion to get lavish views of Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, and the peaceful mountains.

Entrance to Wild Park is free.

6 – See the stunning painted ceilings at St. Peter’s Cathedral

Surrounded by extreme natural beauty is one of the top observation points in Interlaken called Harder Kulm.

Perched up 1,322 m above sea level, get privileged views of stunning blue waters of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, as your eyes climb up to view the famed Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains via the viewing platform, where you can bravely walk across the safe glass bridge to see the true vastness around you.

Also located on top of Harder Kulm is Panorama Restaurant, literally offering incredible views from virtually any seat, perfect for catching a romantic sunset with your partner.

The best and most scenic way to get to Harder Kulm is via the Harderbahn Funicular from the Harder Kulm Railway valley station at the bottom of the mountain.

The Funicular famously passes by the stunning lakes via the Two Lakes Bridge, before arriving at the top in 10 minutes.

• Harder Kulm day trips from Interlaken

7 – Bravely walk across the Panoramabrücke Sigriswil

Also known as the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge, the pedestrian suspension bridge attracts the adventurous traveler who willingly decides to walk the 340-meter-long distance while looking at the deep ravine below known as the Gummischlauch gorge.

Along with the intense views of the gorge below, catch sight of the beautiful Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps up ahead, further beautifying the views around you.

If you’re looking for a scenic trail to catch even more stunning lake and mountain views, then definitely consider circling the Lake Thun Panoramic Circular Trail, taking you through valleys, incredible river shorelines, and panoramic viewpoints of snow-capped mountains.

The Panoramabrüke Sigriswil is located 31 minutes west of Interlaken driving, and keep in mind to bring cash (CHF 8) to pay to cross the bridge.

8 – Bring the kids to Jungfrau Park Interlaken

Want to bring on the fun for all those in your family? Look into visiting Jungfrau Park Interlaken , located only 5 minutes away driving from city center Interlaken.

Covering over 100,000 square meters, and offering an abundance of games and activities for all ages, enjoy everything from the fun arcade games to simulation games, and even theatrical shows.

Keep an eye out for the Swiss Alps Show, an all-immersive experience for the whole family that brings everyone on a fun “magic carpet ride” using advanced technology to take you through scenes of the outstanding Alps. Think of it as an iMax experience, but better.

Get into the mysteries with the performances of the Erich von Däniken, a theater experience that involves the audience untangling riddles and mysteries together.

9 – Raft through the glacial waters of Interlaken’s rivers

Don’t miss your chance of booking a rafting tour while visiting Interlaken, where you’ll experience the rush of rafting through the rapid white waters of the Simme River and Lütschine River.

Along with a small group of people, live together the thrill of paddling under the towering mountains, and taking in the virtually untouched natural areas along the rivers, while even catching a few animal sightings.

Rafting tours usually last between 1.5 hours – to half a day, prices start at around $97 USD. In the price, equipment, safety briefing, changing room facilities, and guide are included. Some tours may include a celebratory beverage at the end of the adventurous ride.

Make sure to bring a spare change of clothes, waterproof shoes, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure.

• rafting in Interlaken

10 – Gear up for an eventful Mt. Pilatus escapade

Mountain lovers get excited to visit Mt. Pilatus , where you’ll get a chance to choose between many activities ranging from hiking, climbing, dining, cycling, and even attending a live concert up there, all at 2,132 meters above sea level.

No matter your specific interest or age, there is bound to be something fun for each to enjoy on Mt. Pilatus.

Kids will love playing in the “sky” at the Pilu-Land playground, joining their families for a thrilling scavenger hunt game, or gliding down the exciting Fräkigauid toboggan.

Adventure seekers will enjoy the Dragon Glider zip line game, and trail running, and curious travelers will enjoy walking through the mysterious Dragon Trail, engaging in the Dragon World, and checking out Astronomy Evening for an evening under the bright stars.

Mt. Pilatus is located a little over 1 hour north of Interlaken.

11 – Enjoy some skiing and snowboarding on the magical slopes of Interlaken

Skiing and snowboarding are some of the top winter activities to do in Interlaken, with 5 different slopes designed perfectly for families or advanced skiing and snowboarding professionals.

Families will enjoy the kid-friendly Beatenberg-Niederhorn skiing area , situated near Lake Thun, offering pristine views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

Offering both families and professionals the perfect slopes is Axalp, sharing stunning views of Lake Brienz, and the beautiful snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the largest ski slopes of them all, Wiriehorn, offering not only powdery white slopes, but also incredible dining options, helpful skiing classes, and of course, expanded magical views of the mountains on the horizon.

Whether you’re a professional winter sports athlete, or not, all levels are welcome.

12 – Book a canyoning experience in the Swiss Alps

Adventure-seekers make sure to book your canyoning tour experience in Interlaken, where you’ll descend into the canyons of the Swiss Alps, and slide through natural streams of water, combining both extreme adrenaline and complete peacefulness.

Ranging from 2-hour trips to half-a-day experiences, be guided by professionals who will take you exactly to the best and safest canyoning spots, taking in spectacular sights of the mountains and lakes on the way there, with your group, and getting a safety briefing.

Prices for canyoning start at $175 USD and include equipment like a wetsuit, lockers, a hot shower afterward, and a warm beverage.

This experience is not exclusive to professionals, anyone with a sense of adventure is welcome to create some of the best memories canyoning in Interlaken.

• canyoning in Interlaken

13 – Stop to smell the flowers at Japanese Garden Interlaken

Relax and refresh your senses at the Japanischer Garten Interlaken, nestled between an old monastery and catholic church, with views of the emblematic Interlaken castle, in the heart of Interlaken.

The garden known locally as the Friendship Garden was a gift from the Japanese twin town of Ōtsu, which carries a lot of varying examples of Japanese influence, and symbolism that details the relationship between both towns.

Enjoy walking through the scent of budding flowers in the spring, listen to the calming sounds of the small waterfall, check out the pavilion, and the pond, said to reflect the beautiful mountains nearby, and if you look closely, you can also view orange fishes swimming around.

You can find the garden next to the Interlaken Hotel.

14 – Feel like you’re on top of Europe at Jungfraujoch

Stand above a staggering 3,454 meters above sea level at the incredible Jungfraujoch mountain viewpoint, considered the first ever UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Alpine region for its views of the impressive glacier alps, and views of Germany, France, and Italy.

With guaranteed snow 365 days out of the year, rest assured that you will see tons of icy white all around, and in the air, as it blows from the mountain peaks nearby.

A must-see on your list is the Ice Palace, showcasing incredible ice sculptures that you have to see to believe.

One of the ways to get to Jungfraujoch is to take the impressive and exhilarating Cogwheel Railway, a steep railway adventure that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat, as you safely traverse the iconic mountain.

• Jungfraujoch day trips from Interlaken

15 – Visit the Swiss Heritage Sites of the Interlaken Monastery and Castle

Situated near the Japanischer Garten Interlaken, about a 1-minute walk, is the Interlaken Monastery and Castle, dating back to the 14th century, and today, offering a quaint escape from the tourist hustle and bustle on the main streets.

Take in the sight of the Medieval architecture, and make sure to stop by the Gothic cloister gallery.

Another not to miss sight is the impressive Japanese garden nearby, with scenic trails to walk, and simply enjoying the quaint grounds for a moment of peace and tranquillity.

Though today it is no longer a functioning Augustinian monastery, but rather serves the town’s administrative business, the space is open to the public for free, so make sure not to miss this sight.

16 – Check out the infinite types of fun at Heimwehfluh

Located not too far from the city center Interlaken is Heimwehfluh, a local mountain brimming with various activities, attractions, and fun not to miss.

Discover the magical views from the tops of the mountain, after riding on the Nostalgic Funicular, running since the early 1900s, and taking around 3-4 minutes to get to the top of Heimwehfluh.

Once the views greet you, take a panoramic walk to keep basking in the views of the mountains and Lake Thun. After walking and working up an appetite, make your way to Panorama Restaurant, serving up even more views and delicious Swiss classic dishes.

Afterward for a dose of extra fun, slide down to the bottom on the Toboggan run, taking control of your own speed as you slide down, and taking in the sights at your own quick pace.

17 – Gaze down at the Alps from a hot-air balloon

Like a vehicle from some other, enchanted world, hot-air balloons will take you on an aerial tour that’s unlike any other!

Enjoy the brisk air and the unique sensation of hovering over the breathtaking lakes and mountain ranges, with the sun rising alongside you to further paint the scene.

Going up some 1,320 meters up high, and seeing not only Interlaken but the town of Unterseen, the scenes will truly take your breath away, so bring your best camera for the perfect shot!

Some tours include ground transport that will pick you up at your hotel, for your convenience. Upon arriving back on the ground, enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne and snacks!

You’ll feel like a proper adventurer!

• hot air balloon ride in Interlaken

18 – Visit the historic ruins of Weissenau Castle

Tap into the explorer within and check out the Weissenau Castle, a castle that has records dating back to the 13th century, and currently holds a space on the Swiss Heritage Sites of National Importance.

Though the castle is in ruins today, the Weissenau Castle is still considered a lesser-known gem to visit in Interlaken, where you can still see portions of the castle intact such as the bedrooms, tower, and curtain wall.

The castle is open 24 hours a day and is free to enter. To get there, it’s an 8-minute drive, and the castle itself is situated along the iconic Aare river.

Pro tip: Visit during the day to admire the site, to admire the stunning nature as well!

19 – Get to know the work behind the scenes of Alpine tourism at the Touristik-Museum

Ever wonder what the history of tourism consisted of in the Alps? If so, then definitely check out the Touristik-Museum (Museum of Tourism) located in the historic center of Unterseen.

Browse through the interesting history of almost 500 years of Alpine tourism, going behind the scenes of the pretty sights to learn more about how building the railway helped attract tourism, how winter tourism started to boom, and a behind-the-scenes look at the souvenir industry.

Take your time making your way through the 3 floors, viewing the ways in which the tourism boards prepared the city for the waves of visitors that stroll through Interlaken.

The museum is open every day during the months of April – October, from 10 am – 5 pm. Ticket entry starts at CHF 5.

20 – Paraglide through the skies of Interlaken

Maybe you’ve been looking up at the mountains as you’ve walked through the pretty historic center, but have you looked at them from above yet?

Be sure to book a paragliding experience to catch the impressive and memorable views of the historic Unterseen town, the rest of Interlaken, and truly opulent views of the mountains and rivers.

Rest assured that you will fly with an experienced pilot who will steer the direction, and prepare you for landing – all you have to do is glide down and feel the sensation of utter exhilaration.

Paragliding experiences are a must add to your list of things to do in Interlaken, just look up to see how many travelers also take to the skies.

Paragliding tours start at $176 USD.

• paragliding in Interlaken

21 – Tap into your adventurous spirit at Interlaken Ropes Park

Visit the hub for amusement in the mountains, full of obstacle courses, laughter, and fun challenges at Interlaken Ropes Park.

Located only a 4-minute drive away from the city center Interlaken is the joy-filled ropes and adventure park, welcoming families and friends to spend some time going through zip lines, climbing through wooden steps in the air, walking amongst the trees via a rope bridge, all the while testing their balance.

The park opens all year round, even during the winter, so make sure to add it to your itinerary if it’s an activity that calls out to your adventurous side.

Rest assured safety is taken seriously and into consideration, so feel free to cut loose and have fun.

General admission tickets start at CHF 21.

• Interlaken Ropes Park tours

22 – Learn about the Reformation Wall at Bastions Park

In order to really appreciate the many angles and moods of the mountains, you have to get up and above them – especially in a plane!

These small, versatile machines will show you sweeping views of the famous peaks and valleys, with vantage points you’d never get from the ground.

With visitors as young as 5 years old allowed on board, and multilingual pilots available to retell fascinating facts, this is a great adventurous activity to do in Interlaken, whether you’re traveling with family or friends!

Typically the standard package includes a 30-minute long flight experience, while a private one can go up to 1.5 hours, depending on the experience you want.

Your spirits will lift as high as the plane itself!

• scenic flights in Interlaken

23 – Applaud a cultural dance performance at the Geneva Contemporary Art Center

Explore the streets of the Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum , admiring the traditional Swiss architecture and get to know the traditions happening right before you, dating back to the earlier, formative years of the country.

Located only half an hour’s drive from Interlaken, on the other side of Lake Brienz, the open-air museum has a daily schedule available online where you can check out, and see what workshops, events, and activities will take place.

Everything from cooking and baking classes, to embroidery and weaving activities, typically take place, plus or minus a few bonus activities throughout the day.

If you’re visiting during the last week of September and the first week of October, check out the Swiss traditional “Fest der Feste” where you’ll be able to absorb more Swiss culture, in real-time.

24 – See frozen lakes when you go snowshoeing

Take the scenic journey through the Schynige Platte, a small mountain range consisting of 3 peaks, and exuding tremendous views of snow-capped mountains, dramatic valleys, and beautiful wilderness.

A trip to the Schynige Platte means a stop at the gorgeous Schynige Platte Alpine Garden where you’ll be able to find some of the native flora that thrives 1,967 meters above sea level, on the soils of the mountains,

See the beauty come alive with a ride on the Schynige Platte railway, and when you arrive at the top of the Schynige Platte, if it’s anywhere between 11:00 – 14:00 hours, a live alphorn performance may greet you, for free.

The Schynige Platte is located a 24-minute drive from the city center of Interlaken.

• Schynige Platte tours

25 – Swim around the Rhone and Arve rivers at Pointe de la Jonction

Grindelwald is a stunning little Swiss town just 28-minutes outside of Interlaken, known mostly for its all-year fun from hiking to skiing, and the stunning mountains surrounding the quaint town in the Bernese Alps.

Take a hike through Eiger Trail, around a 6-kilometer stretch taking you to the north side of the mountain, or check out Bachalpsee to see a beautiful Alpine Lake.

Take an exciting Luftseilbahn Grindelwald Pfingstegg cable car ride to reach the heights of Alp Pfingstegg nearby, traversing forested mountains, deep valleys, and stunning mountain views that get closer every minute you’re inside.

Enjoy various activities from toboggan rides to a fun zip line, and of course, don’t miss the stunning nature views of mount Eiger and the rolling clouds from up above.

26 – Learn to climb up ice – really!

With your tools and gear in hand, you can start your latest climb … but this time, you’ll be tackling a frozen waterfall!

This amazing adventure is part of a full, multi-day training that will let you get to know the wintry landscape in-depth… then conquer it!

Enjoy the fascinating experience of ice climbing alongside a professional and a small group of like-minded travelers, all with some experience under their belt. With so much physical endurance required for this experience, you’ll be fueling up with local delicacies, sure to increase the uniqueness of the experience!

Due to the nature of the experience, the experience may be a few days long.

So bundle up and get excited – these mountain adventures are all about the ice!

27 – Witness and listen to the 70+ waterfalls at Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls

Plan an exciting day trip to Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls, a gushing cascade of water created by melting glaciers, providing one of the most Swiss and scenic backdrops you can experience in the country.

The two main waterfalls are Trümmelbach and Staubbach Falls, but in total there are around 70+ waterfalls within the region, only 18-minutes away from Interlaken.

After taking a moment to contemplate the beauty of the waterfalls, consider a refreshing hike to get to see the natural wonderland up close, or take a bike tour to get a slightly different experience.

Other than looking up at the stunning waterfalls, appreciate the charming little town right beside the waterfalls, traditional Swiss alp architecture, rolling green hills speckled with wildflowers, and the occasional cow.

• Lauterbrunnen Waterfalls day trips

28 – Soak up the natural Alps beauty as you sip on some wine at the best rooftops

Take in the magnificence of the sunset sliding down behind the mountains, adding gentle grades of colorful yellows and oranges from the best rooftops in Interlaken.

Check out Panoramic Restaurant Top o’Met , offering to-die-for views of the mountains, lake, and city down below. Enjoy a wide selection of Swiss classic dishes, specializing in seasonal ingredients and locally sourced products. Visit during the early evening to see the sun descend, and the colors of the mountains change colors.

Carlton Panorama Rooftop Terrace invites you into its swanky restaurant, and rooftop on the 6th floor of Hotel Carlton. Enjoy a fresh selection of cuisines from the world, starting with Swiss cuisine, to tapa-style bites and fine wine, as you take in the stunning sights of the valley and lakes.

29 – Use the fabulous sports facilities inside Bödelibad Interlaken

Who says that traveling meant sacrificing your exercise routine? Bödelibad Interlaken is the place for all exercise lovers and sports enthusiasts who want to keep their regimes plus, have fun doing it inside the wonderful installations of Bödelibad Interlaken.

Whether it’s swimming indoors or outdoors, using the complete gym inside, playing a fun game of golf to keep up with your form, or fully going into relaxation mode and checking into the Wellness Oasis, there is this and more waiting for you at this sports complex.

Those traveling with children can also bring them along to enjoy the kid’s indoor/outdoor pool with a fun slide, making sure that everyone in your family is taken care of.

The Bödelibad Interlaken is located an 11-minute walk from the city center of Interlaken.

30 – Enjoy the wildlife inside the Weissenau Nature Reserve

Get up close and personal with the abundant wildlife native to the Alps at Weissenau Nature Reserve, where you’ll see an impressive variety of birds like the goosander, kingfishers, and water rail as well as frogs, toads, newts, and more.

Only an 8-minute drive from the city center of Interlaken, you can visit this beautiful natural reserve via the Thun-Interlaken bus line.

The park is situated along Lake Thun, offering a unique influence on the wildlife and specific plants native to the land, that you must experience yourself.

Take a hike under the shady walking paths, get a fresh breath of air, and rest from the hustle and bustle of sightseeing for a while.

The Weissenau Nature Reserve is open 24 hours a day.

31 – Bungee jump into the beauty of Stockhorn

Are you ready for the adrenaline rush of your life? Check out the unique bungee jumping experience at Stockhorn , where you’ll be able to take the leap from a 134-meter tall mountain, onto the mountain lake of Stockensee, and then safely spring back up to where you started.

Surrounded by pine trees, the dark emerald green lake below, and the dramatic mountains and Swiss countryside, get the best photo-op while you’re jumping off, included in your ticket price, to keep the treasured memory forever.

Tickets start at CHF 219 per person, and it includes all safety equipment, guides, transportation, your entrance, and a celebratory drink to salute your bravery.

When preparing for this unforgettable experience, make sure to wear closed-toe shoes, warm clothes, and cash.

• bungee jumping in Interlaken

32 – See a two-headed turtle at the Museum of Natural History

Meaning “High Way” in English, Höheweg is the premiere street in Interlaken buzzing with life with its boutique shops, souvenir stores, enticing restaurants, and relaxing terraces, not to mention the cultural events that take place in the streets – it is the place where you want to go.

Aside from the charming street and all it has to offer, it’s also the perfect place to catch the impending view of the Jungfrau mountain, as well as the incredible sight of paragliders dropping and gliding through the sky in style.

Don’t miss the beautiful Swiss architecture of local homes, the beautiful gardens, lovely fountains, and the warm hospitality centered at Höheweg.

The Höheweg is located in the heart of the city center Interlaken.

33 – Plan a day at the lake at Burgseeli Lido at Lake Burgseeli

Dip your toes in the beautiful and peaceful Lake Burgseeli at Burgseeli Lido, just a 5-minute drive outside of the city center Interlaken in Naturstrandbad Burgseeli.

Whether you’re coming with friends or family, Burgseeli Lido offers everything from luxurious natural baths, surrounded by stunning mountains, ample open fields of flowers and grass, and much more.

Prepare a picnic or barbeque, using the barbeque facilities, play a rousing game of table tennis, or catch up on your suntan on the wide-open wood deck.

For children, games, and activities from the kiddie pool and mini waterslides, to larger jumping platforms are available to practice and show off their cannonball jumps.

Admission starts at CHF 5 for adults and CHF 3.50 for children.

34 – Feel the fairytale effects of Lake Thun

Considered to be the largest lake in the Bernese Highlands, Lake Thun is also adored by its locals for the picturesque towns surrounding the lake, each offering its own charming sights.

One of those impressive sites in Lake Thun is the 12th-century Thun Castle, situated in the area of Lauitor on the other side of Lake Thun from Interlaken. Enter the castle after taking its beautiful exteriors, and wander inside the museum exhibits retelling its history, and the history of the surrounding area and lake.

For those who want to get on the water, consider booking a boat tour , offering optimal views of the little towns surrounding the lake, and the pristine mountains, all feeling like it’s a picture taken out of a storybook.

• Lake Thun tours

35 – Make your way around the Castles on Lake Thun

Existing for over 8 centuries, the Oberhofen Castle sparkles bright with its renovated appearance, both inside and out. Stroll through the colorfully manicured gardens of the castle, and enjoy the fascinating exhibits inside detailing specific historical and interesting topics.

Dating back to the early 1600s, the Schadau Castle stands proudly today as a premiere hotel and restaurant, offering the classic charm of its yesterday years, coupled with the conveniences of modern times.

Have a lovely coffee at the Castle Café inside Hünegg Castle , and don’t forget to explore the castle’s museum inside, showcasing the grandeur of the castle in its heyday, and the many influences that made it what it is today.

Enjoy the historic views from Spiez Castle , offering plenty to do and see, from its historical museum that dates back to its prehistoric records to its glamorous visitors and more!

36 – Visit the national hub for wood carving at the Schweizer Holzbildhauerei Museum

Bask in the ornate and fascinating wood carving works inside the Schweizer Holzbildhauerei Museum , located in the center of Brienz.

Showcasing the history and reasons why wood carving became a major activity in the region, all the way to showcasing stunning works of wood carving art, appreciate the artists behind the crafts, only found in Brienz.

Check out the calendar online to see when workshops are held, where you can witness this artisanal work in real-time, and see contemporary works of art, adorning the homes of many woodcarving enthusiasts.

If you’d like to, you can also book a guided tour with a professional guide inside, sharing and answering any questions that pop up.

Entrance into this museum starts at CHF 5 for adults.

37 – Take a ride on the Historic Brienzer-Rothorn Railway

Hop on board one of the longest-running cog trains in Interlaken, the historic Brienzer-Rothorn Railway , taking passengers on the most memorable rides since 1892.

Steam through incredible mountainside sights, from lush green rolling hills, yellow dotted fields, high views of the turquoise Lake Brienz, and the snow-capped, jagged mountain. If you plan your trip in the summer, you will be greatly gifted with ongoing views of mountains and lakes on the horizon.

The hours of operation for the historic cog trail are from June – October, and a good tip to consider is to book your tickets in advance, as this is a very popular attraction. Also, a good idea is to arrive 30 minutes before your train departure time to avoid any timing issues.

38 – Take a scenic ride on the Bodeli Tourist Train and Bodeli-Tram

Take a scenic journey through the natural wonderland near Interlaken on the Bodeli Tourist Train and Bodeli-Tram.

Take in sights of the turquoise lake waters, smaller streams, and rivers, while taking in the towering mountains above, and passing through the “Bödeli” – the name of the strip of land that crosses and divides Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and parts of the historic district of Unterseen.

Continue along the journey and stop by the famed Weissenau nature reserve with the option to stop by for a while.

The circular journey takes around 1.5 hours to complete. If you’re planning on adding this activity to your list of things to do in Interlaken, the best seasons to do it are between April-September, offering the best, clear, and warm days.

39 – Glow in neon lights at OMEGA next-level minigolf

Mini golf fans get ready to plan a fun day at OMEGA next-level minigolf , offering a unique and fun mini golfing experience involving neon lights and colors that glow in the dark, in a 17-hole minigolf setting.

Make yourself stand out by drawing on yourself and your clothes without ruining them with washable neon paint, and stand under the blacklight where you’ll glow like never before.

Whether you’re a golfing pro, or you’re a beginner, all this game and experience requires out of its players is a good playing mindset and an open mind.

OMEGA next-level minigolf requires its visitors to schedule ahead of time your visit, and how many will come with you to better accommodate you, which can do on their website.

40 – Observe a Eurasian Lynx in the wild at Bioparc Geneve

Cascading some 400 meters from above is the astonishing Giessbachfälle falls , a waterfall and river located on the other side of Lake Brienz, around 50 minutes from Interlaken.

Experience for yourself the multi-tiered waterfall, and feel its refreshing mist as you walk through the metal bridge directly in front of it, or take a hike nearby and feel its presence that way.

Book a half-day Giessbachfälle tour from Interlaken, stop by the beautiful Lake Brienz along the way, and experience a hike in your group, taking in the incredible mountainside, and stopping for photos along the way. Part of the trip also includes a stop to explore the local Brienz village.

Take the Giessbach Standseilbahn Funiculaire (Grandhotel Giessbach), slowly taking you to the top of the mountain, and close to the falls in a unique way you cannot miss.

41 – Feel the rush of the cool air on a helicopter skydiving experience

Feel the adrenaline pump through your veins as you elevate into the sky on a helicopter tour , gliding across the Interlaken sky for maximum views!

Glide through the Swiss Alps, and make your way through the skies of the quaint villages down below, as you’re being saluted by the people down below. The helicopter can reach a height of 15,000 feet in the air, the height at which you’ll see a grand portion of Interlaken’s beauty.

Your pilot will share insider facts on all the sites, while also making a few stops to get off and enjoy the secluded scenery yourself! From the outstanding Swiss Alps to the blue and green lakes, and picture-perfect villages, helicopter tours start at $275 USD.

• skydiving in Interlaken

42 – Don’t miss out on one sledding in Interlaken

One of the activities not to miss out on while visiting this winter wonderland is sledding through the various slopes and mountainsides throughout Interlaken. From romantic sledding with your partner to family and even beginner friendly, there is an opportunity to slide through the powder white snow.

Those looking for a romantic moment with their partner should consider Saxeten, offering sights like the Alp Nessleren, passing frozen lakes, white-covered pine trees, and more. Afterward cozy up with each other with some mulled wine at the local wine bars.

For families, don’t miss the over 70 kilometers worth of easy to challenging slopes and sledding opportunities, helping you make amazing memories together. After viewing the cool snow glide from the Axalp mountains, and breathing in some of the purest air, enjoy some hot beverages like hot chocolate and other kid-friendly hot drinks to warm back up.

You can also sled through the winter landscape on the Niederhorn by day or night. Take the glass-sided funicular railway from Beatenbucht – the view is magical and imposing, and you can relax and enjoy the snow-capped mountains and lakes.

43 – Visit one of the highest mountain peaks at Schilthorn

To get a truly beautiful view of the Swiss Alps, and multiple valleys below in one place, check out Schilthorn, one of the tallest peaks in Switzerland.

Consider a Schilthorn tour to better accommodate your experience to arrive at the peak of the mountain, and experience the unique attractions there from dining at the rotating restaurant Piz Gloria, to talking through the Thrill Walk on the Big Terrace, a glass-floor bridge overlooking other mountain peaks and valleys, not to mention the pure sights of snow all year long.

Also not to miss is the Bond World exhibition and 007 Walk of Fame, paying homage to the James Bond spirit of adventure with a replica of the journey that James Bond performed in one of his movies filmed there.

• Schilthorn tickets

44 – Refresh your palate with a beer tasting

Indulge in the local craft beer scene in Interlaken, with a beer tasting experience along with old friends, and new.

Check out Hüsi Bierhaus , just a 10-minute walk from the city center Interlaken, a chic bar and restaurant serving up incredible Swiss dishes paired with the best beers on tap, locally crafted. Get incredible views of the Swiss Alps from the restaurant, as you’re being served with incredible hospitality.

Another place to consider is Haarige Kuh Brauerei for an authentic brewery experience, where you’ll be able to step behind the scenes and check out how the Swiss make their beer. Offering tours and tastings, consider booking your experience with your friends, only a 15-minute walk from the city center of Interlaken.

45 – Have an afternoon of cheese and chocolate tastings

Book a delicious cheese-tasting experience, to sample some of the most delectable and creamy cheeses typical of Switzerland.

As part of many food tours in Interlaken, a cheese shop or two is a required stop, to taste cheeses such as creamy Gruyère and hard Sbrinz cheese.

For the chocolate lovers, make sure to check out our list of the best chocolate tours in Interlaken , offering a one-of-a-kind experience.

If you take a chocolate-making class, you must consider Funky Chocolate Club Switzerland , where you’ll be able to learn the basics of chocolate-making, while unleashing your inner chocolatier imagination.

On a chocolate and cheese tour, stop by the town of Gruyères and see the majestic La Berra and Le Gibloux mountains nearby.

• cheese tasting in Interlaken

46 – Conquer the currents with a bit of riverboarding

If you want to push the envelope in terms of watersports, why not try surfing… in the middle of a river ?

Head down to the mighty Rhône with your board, and jump straight into the rapids for a wild ride that rivals any rollercoaster.

Worried you don’t know enough to try this activity? No worries! Riverboarding is a great sport to be a beginner at, especially doing it in one of the sunniest places in Switzerland, and with the guidance of a professional riverboard guide. You’ll receive all the proper techniques and safety information, your gear, and then you’ll be on your way.

It’s part surfing, part rafting, and all amazing! The experience will typically last around 2.5 hours.

47 – Take a scenic hike in Augstmatthorn

With sweeping views of Lake Brienz, and housing an extraordinary home to wildlife, particularly birds, consider a trip to the mountain of Augstmatthorn.

The journey, which takes a total of 5-6 hours to complete, will gratify you with incredible views of lakes, emerald-colored mountains filled with forest greenery, and beautiful birds graciously flying through the valleys.

Although the hike is pretty long, on the way back, there are buses that you can take to give your legs a bit of a much-needed break.

If hikes like these or a bit less intense interest you, but you don’t know how to do one yourself, consider booking a hiking tour of this mountain, or a few others near Interlaken where you’ll be guided, informed, and well-prepared for your day out hiking.

• hiking in Interlaken

48 – Live the magic of winter at ICE MAGIC Interlaken

Enjoy the magic of winter at ICE MAGIC Interlaken , a one-stop shop for fun winter and snow activities, from skating to local sports like Bavarian curling, all while being surrounded by the majestic mountains and beautiful lakes.

Whether by day or evening, there’s always some fun to be had at ICE MAGIC, or even stepping inside the warm restaurants, serving cozy hot beverages and filling meals, while looking at the outdoor scenery.

ICE Magic caters to both young and adults, with ice skating rinks specified for different ages, as well as rides geared towards children.

Entry tickets to ICE MAGIC start at CHF 9 for adults, with multiple discounts offered depending on the day you’d like to stop by. ICE MAGIC is located only a 4-minute drive from the city center of Interlaken.

49 – Practice your swing at Interlaken Golf Club

Located between the Thun and Brienz lakes, the Interlaken Golf Club is the perfect place to spend some time practicing your golfing skills, or meeting like minded people for a little while.

Uniquely located beside a stunning park, you’ll get to enjoy jaw-dropping views of snow-dusted pine trees, frozen lakes, snow-capped mountains, in the winter, and verdant trees, stunning mountains, and local flora in bloom during the water months.

No matter what the season, you’ll have so much to look at and appreciate as you’re doing your thing on the golf course!  Even if you’re new to the sport, there are specific practice facilities to help improve your golfing skills, so don’t hold back.

Make sure to reserve your golf time slot online.

50 – Day trip to other charming towns near Interlaken

Forming part of the mountainside is the stunning St. Beatus Cave , cascading down below with a majestic waterfall, completely stopping every passerby in their tracks for its pure beauty, and raw enchantment.

Make the 15-minute hike towards the Beatus Cave, rewarding you with countless scenic sights of moss-covered mountains, and the sound of multiple waterfalls from all different directions. Locals recommend bringing a picnic and taking advantage of the picnic areas on the way.

Once reaching the cave, visitors can explore either on their own or with an English-speaking guide, or enter the museum to learn about the fascinating legend that circles around this emblematic wonder.

The St. Beatus Cave and waterfalls are located only an 11-minute drive from Interlaken, right along Lake Thun.

51 – Unwind at The Beach, the open-air pool of Bönigen

Freshen up with a cool dip in the pools of The Beach – Standbad Bönigen, or cozy up and enjoy the steam from the hot baths in cooler months – regardless of the season, there are many reasons to add visiting The Beach to your list of places to visit in Interlaken.

Located near Lake Brienz, The Beach also provides a great variety of food options in their multiple restaurants on site geared for children and adults, as well as other forms of exploration and adventure.

Rent a kayak or canoe to be one with the natural surroundings, or book a group stand-up paddleboarding experience, and explore different parts of the lake with others.

52 – Snap a selfie with Frankenstein

Spiez enchants all its visitors from sports lovers to history buffs, and all in between with its charming architecture, historic city center, and beautiful natural landscape, only a 19-minute drive away from city center Interlaken.

If you visit during the summer months, enjoy splashing around at the Spiez Outdoor Pool and cove, or take a cruise of Lake Thun, taking notice of the centuries-old castles nestled on the sides of the mountains.

If you’re visiting in the winter, consider partaking in the local winter sports activities, ice skating under a magical ambiance of string lights, or inviting your partner for a cozy walk along the chilly promenade.

Spiez also offers incredible hiking opportunities, a pleasant activity to be on the list of many nature lovers.

53 – Tread through the ancient Unspunnen Castle

Visit the old ruins of the 12th century Unspunnen Castle, situated only a 5-minute drive away, in the Bernese Highlands.

Free to enter and explore, feel the enchantment of the castle, nestled in the forested mountains, with views of the lakes to imagine what life must have been like in the middle ages, and who lived there.

From there, enjoy a stroll around the quaint village nearby, or simply stay at the castle, carefully treading the paths that people did many years ago.

Since this is a free activity, there are no tours or people at the castle to register with. So tread at your own risk if you go when it’s rainy or snowing, as the paths can be a bit slippery.

54 -Hit the powder in a whole new way while snowkiting

Another unique activity taking shape in the region, snowkiting takes the winter sports field to the next level!

The basic premise is simple: head to the slopes on a modified snowboard with a large sail attached, and let gravity and the wind take you downhill.

But the unique skills and special blend of elements at play are what make this so unforgettable – and so exciting!

The experience will take anywhere between 4-8 hours and will take you to the snowy mountains of the Simplon Pass. Admire this commonly known “snowkiting paradise” as you start to gear up to shred the slopes.

Pro tip: the season to go snowkiting is between December and March, so plan accordingly and bring a good jacket!

55 – Heat up inside a HotTug

A HotTug is a unique Swiss experience only to be had in Lake Brien in Interlaken, where essentially, you can rent out a boat that has a hot tub inside, with you and your best friends, and cruise along the majestic lake, while keeping inside the warm waters.

The HotTug can be booked at any time throughout the year, and you can purchase snacks for yourself and your group. Enjoy cruising inside the lake at a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius, created through a wood-fired system, while directing the boat yourself. Whether you’re booking the experience with your friends, or family, this experience is most popular to do between couples.

Make sure to book your HotTug experience online on their website, and take advantage of this amazing opportunity, locally situated in the famed Lake Briezen.

There are two sections inside Lake Briezen where this opportunity takes place, so rest assured you’ll be able to book a slot.

56 – Stop into the best restaurants

La Terrasse is the restaurant to make dinner reservations if you are celebrating a birthday, or want to impress your partner. Lavishly welcoming its guests, La Terrasse is on the luxurious side of fine dining in Interlaken, offering exquisite French cuisine.

For classic Swiss dishes, head over to Goldener Anker , offering the best in cozy dishes to keep you warm during the winter especially, such as warm fondue, Älplermagronen (potato gratin with other sides), and an assortment of delicious cheeses, and more.

Husi Bierhaus is an excellent choice if you’re wanting to go to a place that offers both great food and even greater drink selections. Indulge in a wide variety of beer on tap, craft beers, and classic Swiss beers, along with cozy Swiss dishes.

57 – Get ready to run when you experience the Longest New Year’s Eve

A celebration you won’t want to miss is the Longest New Year’s Even, bringing to life an age-old tradition (one of the many in Interlaken) that involves local lore and insight into the local culture.

Starting from December 31st to January 1st, the town comes out to celebrate New Year’s with plenty of traditions, many of which include a parade where you’ll witness the Hardermannli (the spirit of the Harder Kulum mountains) and his wife and followers all over the city.

Running around the city, the local legend humanized in a costume, runs around the town, gently spooking everyone in its path. It’s a unique celebration, and one to learn more about by being there while enjoying a few local snacks too.

58 – Try to win the jackpot at Casino Interlaken

Looking for some casino fun? Check out Casino Interlaken, where you’ll find everything from slot machines, to gambling games, an expansive bar to freshen up after a few games, and a spectacular garden worth strolling through.

Situated in the heart of the city, the casino is very accessible and open all year round, no matter what time of year you may be in town. Make sure to check the opening hours for the days you’ll be there, as they may change.

Check out their website to learn about the different packages they offer, and what they include. The basic package is called First Touch and includes admission, a welcome drink, lucky chips, a small gift, and free parking. This package is only available to those who visit for the first time.

59 – Snowshoe your way around a snowy forest

Get ready to experience a true winter wonderland when you book your slot for a snowshoe experience, nestled between the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, overlooking the hardly touched nature.

From frozen lakes, snow-capped mountains, and even a few quaint mountain villages in sight, you’ll fall in love with the panoramic sites as much as you will fall in love with this snow sport, which for thousands of years, was a common way for the locals to travel through the snow.

You’ll take the cable car to your official starting point, which will be a beautiful experience all on its own! Some tours are combined with sledding, so consider how much you want to experience during the fun outing, and book the perfect tour!

• snowshoe tours in Interlaken

How to get to Interlaken?

If you are flying internationally into Interlaken, the closest airport to the city center is Bern Airport BRN/LSZB).

The most common ways to get to the city center of Interlaken are via the train or the bus, however, to cut in half the time public transport takes to arrive at the city center, check out the best airport transfers in Interlaken !

Where to stay in Interlaken?

NO8 Boutique Hotel is a great, boutique hotel to stay in and take advantage of all its amenities, and services like purchasing ski tickets right from the hotel. Situated in the historic district of Unterseen, rest assured you will be staying in the heart of the history of Interlaken, and close to everything.

Admire the beautiful, traditional, and clean aesthetic of the Jungfrau Hotel , showcasing amazing views of the Jungfrau mountain from virtually every room in the hotel. Inside, indulge in some of the best Swiss cuisine with the in-house restaurants.

Enjoy a night or two at Swiss Inn & Apartments , located in the heart of Interlaken, and close to all the must-see sights. Take advantage of the cool rooms in the summer, or the warm and cozy rooms in the winter, as well as high-speed wifi – great for those traveling and working.

Seiler au Lac offers the beauty and serenity of Lake Brienz right beside them, as well as great Swiss restaurants on-site. Enjoy the free bus shuttles that can take you into the city center, exclusive for their guests, and free parking for those driving to Interlaken.

• best hotels in Interlaken

Traveling on a budget?

Consider purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass , a great option for those traveling and wanting to visit the most major sites in Interlaken.

Save money and see more with the pass, offering quick entrance into certain museums, discounted entrances into most sites, and even a few discounts towards meals at certain restaurants.Considering spending your time exploring the mountains? Grab the Jungfrau region travel pass, offering a boat, train, bus, and gondola to truly experience the stunning Swiss Alps in all their splendor, for one payment.

Where to go next?

Now that you’ve seen what awaits in Interlaken, consider checking out Switzerland’s other incredible and major cities, including all the amazing things to do in Geneva, known for its beautiful cultural scene, best restaurants, opera and theater, and many museums. Begin your adventures with a stunning Geneva boat tour, and then witness the color changes at the point where two rivers meet at Pointe de la Jonction.

Make sure to check out all the incredible things to do in Zurich, known for its luxurious shopping scene, and must-try chocolate creations. From finance hot spots to historical and charming Old Towns, you’ll get the best of both worlds in this multi-dimensional city! Looking for some outdoor activities? Read through our list of the best things to do in Lucerne and explore the stunning mountains surrounding this unique medieval city.

Hop on the quick rail to get breathtaking views from Mount Pilatus, and then refuel at the best restaurants in Lucerne.

Final thoughts

Interlaken is a city that offers priceless beauty and nature, all year round, and has managed to invite its locals and visitors to discover it in multiple ways.

Rest assured that no matter which season you decide to visit the city known as one of the oldest holiday resorts in Switzerland, you will find more than a couple of things to add to your Swiss bucket list.

We hope you enjoyed our complete list of the 53 fun things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland.

Happy travels!

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Incredible Experiences In Beautiful Interlaken, Switzerland

• Destinations
• Switzerland

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz lies picturesque Interlaken — a town between two lakes. This charming Swiss resort village offers guests incredible activities like skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, a scenic boat cruise, delicious Swiss food, decadent Swiss chocolate, and exciting adventures. The surrounding mountains make this beautiful town even more breathtaking.

Anchored by a center green used for picnics, parasail landings, and special events, the town is hemmed in by massive mountains and lakes. The town is pedestrian-friendly; you can easily walk from the town center to shopping, dinner, evening entertainment, and the train stations. With East and West train stations, you have quick access to transportation to the mountains and nearby Swiss towns.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. Stand On The Top Of Europe

Perched atop the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe , you find yourself standing at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level. The spectacular view from this UNESCO World Heritage Site shows off the rugged Swiss Mittelland towards the Vosges on one side and the bright white Aletsch Glacier on the other. Looking down on the surrounding mountains is a balance-bending sensation. Far below, birds fly circles around jagged snow-covered peaks and floating clouds look like soft, pillowy floors. More than simply being at the top of a mountain, you feel like you are on top of the world.

There is more to see and do at the Top of Europe. The Ice Palace is a sparkling cave carved through the ice flow in the 1930s. Today, visitors can enjoy a slippery walk on ice while viewing stunning carved ice sculptures along the pathway. The ever-changing exhibit includes ice bears, ice penguins, and other frozen creatures.

Shops and restaurants join various exhibits to entertain and nourish you on your frozen quest. The magnificent Lindt Chocolate store has a sweet selection and kitchen display to top off your visit.

Pro Tip: Getting to the Jungfraujoch requires a little train and gondola juggling. You will find sales offices in Interlaken’s town center offering tickets and guidance for your panoramic journey.

2. Take A Funky Chocolate Club Class

Perfectly roasted cocoa beans and sweet milk from happy cows produce the world’s most decadent milk chocolate. Why buy Swiss chocolate when you can join a hands-on class to make and design your very own bars? At the Funky Chocolate Club , you can explore the world of delicious chocolate, taste-test samples, and craft your own personalized chocolate bars — not to mention the adorable photo opportunity of you wearing a bright red chef’s hat.

The young and young at heart love chocolate, and the 75-minute chocolate class is designed for all ages and dessert crafting experiences. Learn chocolate techniques like tempering while taste testing different types of chocolate. Once you have filled your molds, you can decorate with abandon — sprinkles, nuts, candies, melted chocolate, and more. One of the best parts of the class: licking the spatula after your molds are filled.

Pro Tip: The chocolate bars need to set up, so you will need to leave them at Funky Chocolate and pick them up a few hours later.

3. Parasail Over The Mountains

Does floating gracefully over the evergreen forest with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop sound like your ideal adrenaline kick? Paragliding Interlaken will float you down the mountainside with winds and thermals to power your exciting tandem paragliding experience. Paragliding Interlaken provides you with all the gear you need including cold weather protection for your tandem jump with one of their expert paragliders. After a short demonstration and a ride to the top of the mountain, you are strapped to your guide, and essentially run until there is no ground left under your feet.

After sailing high above the beautiful cliffs and forests surrounding Interlaken, your guide gently lands in the town center green. After you catch your breath, you’ll be ready to go again.

Not ready to jump? No problem. Grab a bench along the center green and live vicariously through the steady stream of experienced and newbie jumpers as they navigate the skies above Interlaken.

Pro Tip: Paragliding Interlaken offers GoPro videos of your adventure. For a small extra fee, you can relive your jump and have great Instagrammable photos and videos.

4. Experience 007’s Majesty

Schilthorn – Piz Gloria is where the iconic mountain scene from the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was filmed. The movie was shot in Schilthorn from October 1968 to May 1969 and made the area famous. In the movie, Piz Gloria was the headquarters of Blofeld (Bond’s arch-enemy) and his secret Spectre organization.

Experience the movie scenery firsthand at the James Bond Brunch, which is served in the 360-degree Restaurant Piz Gloria with amazing mountain views as your backdrop. The cable car ride up to Schilthorn is an adventure on its own. The views are so beautiful, it’s difficult to decide which direction to focus your attention.

Pro Tip: Restaurant Piz Gloria also offers an afternoon meat and cheese platter to satisfy those midday cravings.

5. Cruise Lake Thun

Lake Thun is the largest lake in the Bernese Oberland and a leisurely cruise is a must for any visitor. The mountain scenery will take your breath away. It is incredibly beautiful. Not to be outshined, charming small towns and villages line the lake and beckon you to disembark and explore.

The lake is a mirror of brilliant shades of blue, sometimes with soft gray hues and other times a brilliant Caribbean turquoise. The changing seasonal landscape from snow-capped mountains to verdant hillsides is reflective of nature’s whims. While you are cruising, enjoy a beverage, a delicious nibble, or an elegant meal while moving from port to port.

Once in Thun, wander the old city and explore the wonderful shops and cafes. The boat docks just a few blocks from all the action.

Pro Tip: Book the cruise from Interlaken West train station and after touring take the quick train ride back.

6. Eat Raclette

Raclette, the ooey-gooey cheese of Switzerland, is best eaten melted with potatoes and pickles. Sounds odd, but it is amazing. Restaurant Baren serves up cast-iron plates filled with bubbling cheese and accouterments for your heavenly indulgence.

Restaurant Baren is known for classic Swiss mountain dishes delivered in their rustic chalet. The short walk from Interlaken center will help you work up an appetite. You will be sure to find a fun bar for a nightcap on the walk back to your hotel.

Pro Tip: Baren is a popular local restaurant; reservations are recommended.

7. Shop For Watches

Swiss watch shops are ubiquitous in Interlaken. Watches of Switzerland is one good option if you are in the market for a new timepiece. From Rolex to Tissot, you will find a watch at your price point. The hunt for the perfect watch is fun and it makes the perfect souvenir from Interlaken.

Pro Tip: It’s easy to overspend. Set your budget before you enter the store so you won’t be distracted by all the bling and pretty things.

8. Ski The Jungfrau Region

Spectacular mountains make up the Jungfrau Ski Region and offer stunning views of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau mountains. Ski, snowboard, sled, and hike along the snow-covered trails in the trio of resort areas. Grindelwald-Wengen, Grindelwald-First, and Murren-Schilthorn offer on and off-piste trails for all levels of downhillers. From the uber black diamond runs at the top of Schilthorn mountain to the gentle lower slopes of Grindelwald, there is a run for everyone.

If you don’t downhill or need a break from skiing, grab your trekking poles and hike the many trails designed for walkers and sledders. It is a wonderful way to get some fresh air and enjoy the winter wonderland.

Pro Tip: The ski areas are not immediately accessible from the city center. You will need to take a bus and/or train to hit the slopes. When you purchase your lift ticket, add the train ticket too for a smooth transition to the beautiful ski areas.

9. Hike The Mountains

When the snow melts, the mountains offer visitors hiking trails that offer awe-inspiring panoramic views.

AllTrails lists 35 different scenic hikes near Interlaken. There are plenty of options to get out and view the mountains on foot. Beginners will enjoy the 2.7-mile Harder-Kulm point-to-point hike that ends at the Aare River. Experts can test their skills with the Hardergrat: Interlaken – Brienzer Rothorn , a 14.5-mile point-to-point option, one of the most popular hikes in the region.

If you’re not interested in hiking, jump on the train and enjoy the view while you sit back and relax.

Pro Tip: Nearby Lauterbrunnen is a great spot to begin your hiking expeditions. Our destination guide will get you started with this pretty village as a base.

Explore Interlaken And The Swiss Alps

Visiting Interlaken is a wonderful way to explore all the great experiences you can have in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland. This charming town between two lakes makes a convenient headquarters for enjoying outdoor activities, stunning scenery, delicious Swiss food, shopping, and their world-famous chocolate.

Check out the Interlaken Tourist Office for the latest information and seasonal happenings to make the most of your trip to Switzerland.

Before your next Swiss adventure, explore these articles:

• Take A Peek Inside This Luxurious Fairytale Hotel In Switzerland
• 9 Delicious Foods You Must Try When Visiting Switzerland
• 4 Quaint Mountain Towns To Visit Near St Moritz, Switzerland

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

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Travel tips, budget travel guides, volunteering stories, more!

10 Incredible Things To Do In Interlaken, Switzerland

From skiing in the Swiss Alps, to kayaking on Lake Brienz, to tasting local chocolate and fondue, here are the 10 best things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland. 

This past weekend, I had my first gig as an international tour guide in Switzerland.

I helped lead a weekend trip to Interlaken with Smart Trip, the student tour company I work for in Rome .

Aside from dealing with long overnight buses, the responsibility of helping 60 students plan their weekend, and organizing the events, I had an unforgettable weekend visiting Interlaken, Switzerland’s Adventure Capital .

So based on my own experience and a little bit of research, I’ve written this article about the best things to do in Interlaken to help future travelers plan their visit !

What is Interlaken Switzerland known for?

As the Adventure Capital of Switzerland, Interlaken is known for exciting sports and activities like skiing, snowboarding, skydiving, paragliding, bungy jumping, and more.

Due to its breathtaking scenery surrounded by the Swiss Alps and the glacial turquoise waters of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, Interlaken is also know for its gorgeous views.

These top things to do in Interlaken Switzerland will help you make the most of your time in this adventurous and beautiful place!

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Interlaken Switzerland.

10 Incredible Things To Do In Interlaken Switzerland

From skiing in the Jungfrau Region, to other fun outdoor activities, to taking day trips to all the sights nearby, there are endless exciting Interlaken attractions.

The town of Interlaken is nestled in between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the peaks of the Swiss Alps standing tall in the distance. It’s an incredibly scenic spot with lots of natural beauty and opportunities for adventure.

Here are the best activities to do when you visit Interlaken!

Interlaken is expensive – see it on a budget using my 50 best budget travel tips !

1. Explore Interlaken Town Center

Interlaken is a charming village filled with shops, restaurants, green spaces, and unique architecture.

The souvenir shops draw in tourists like magnets. Be sure to take a moment to admire the organized displays of Swiss army knives, thick wool socks, and handmade crafts.

So many mountains and the beautiful two lakes surround the town center, so the scenery is amazing wherever you walk.

2. Try Canyoning

Canyoning is when you strap yourself to a harness and some sturdy ropes and climb up, down, and all around the landscape.

That means you’ll be rappeling down waterfalls, climbing up gorges, sloshing through rivers, and just getting down and dirty in nature.

This is a super fun thing to do in Switzerland if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s similar to rock climbing, and is on the bucket list of many thrill-seekers!

Canyoning in Interlaken is usually only available in the summer. You should always go with a reputable tour company that knows what they’re doing. It’s usually a full-day affair, so consider it an exciting Interlaken day trip.

Also consider a Canyon Swing for an extra boost of adrenaline!

3. Indulge in Plenty of Swiss Food

Swiss cuisine is heavy and heartwarming. Indulging in plenty of cheese and chocolate is one of the best things to do in Interlaken Switzerland!

We stayed at the Mattenhof Hotel in the town center, which served freshly baked bread with local cheese for breakfast.

My cheese adventures continued with the most mind-blowing Mac n’ cheese at Hüsi Bierhaus . I also enjoyed a decadent dinner of melty cheese fondue at Balmers Hostel .

Other popular restaurants in Interlaken are Ox , which serves modern Swiss cuisine, and Goldener Anker , a cozy joint with delicious home-cooked meals.

You also have to eat chocolate at any possible opportunity when you visit Interlaken. The town is full of chocolate shops selling adorable little truffles and interesting chocolate-themed gifts.

Funky Chocolate Club is a necessary stop in Interlaken. Here you can buy thick hot chocolate and life-changing chocolate-covered strawberries. You can also do a chocolate workshop there to learn more and make your own chocolate.

4. Go Paragliding

Paragliding is easily one of the best things to do in Interlaken.

It allows you to soar over the surrounding mountains and the stunning lakes, and it’s much more relaxing than sky diving.

I didn’t have the time to go paragliding. But I spoke to many friends and students who did and they absolutely loved it. It is often a highlight of visiting Interlaken!

Here is the link to a top-rated paragliding tour company in Interlaken.

5. Ski or Snowboard In The Swiss Alps

With the world-famous Swiss Alps right around the corner, you can’t pass up the opportunity to ski or snowboard while visiting Interlaken.

The easiest way to reach the mountains is to take the train from Interlaken West Station to Grindelwald . It’s an easy Interlaken day trip, and the short train ride will take you into the heart of the Bernese Alps.

Grindelwald is an adorable ski town that acts as a gateway to the Jungfrau Region of the Alps . You can rent your gear from  Buri Sport  which is right next to the train station.

Then, take another train up the mountain to Kleine Scheidegg . This mountain pass sits at 2,061 meters above sea level.

I was lucky to have a few hours of skiing in Interlaken before I had to resume my tour guide duties. It was some of the best skiing of my life!

6. White Water Rafting

With so many mountains, lakes, rivers, and canyons surrounding Interlaken, the water rapids are perfect for rafting.

If you want an adrenaline rush outside in nature, this is one of the best things to do in Interlaken.

This company is great for white-water rafting on the Lütschine River is suitable for all experience levels. Even if you’ve never gone white water rafting before, the rapids aren’t too intense and the local guides will ensure you are safe at all times.

This is a fun half-day activity that lasts about 4 hours.

7. Kayaking on Lake Brienz

For a different perspective of Interlaken’s natural beauty, go kayaking on the sapphire waters of Lake Brienz .

I took a few students with me to  HighTide Kayak School . Once there, we received heavy-duty wetsuits, kayaks, and paddles. Then the local guide took us around the lake! ( Here is the link to the tour company I used )

Halfway through paddling around the glassy lake, we beached our kayaks and hiked up a Bronze-Age stone castle.

Then our group of seven shared tea and chocolate while admiring the views that looked like they came straight out of a snow globe.

It’s a beautiful experience to get out on the water in winter. With the right gear, you’ll stay warm and get to enjoy the winter wonderland.

You can also go stand up paddleboarding on Lake Brienz or Lake Thun for a different experience, though this one is better in summer when the weather is warm.

8. Enjoy a Boat Cruise on Lake Thun

Interlaken’s two lakes are honestly so beautiful that you have to get out on the water. Even when it’s freezing.

If you don’t want to go kayaking, consider a boat cruise. You’ll stay nice and dry, but still get to absorb the picturesque lake scenery of Lake Thun.

Admire the green forests, charming villages, jagged mountains, and crystal clear water of Lake Thun.

You can book fancy boat tours that include food and drinks, or just book a cheap boat day pass that allows you to hop and off the local ferries while you explore Lake Thun.

A boat tour is more relaxing, but the boat day pass allows you to explore at your own pace.

9. Sky Dive

Another one of the best things to do in Interlaken is Skydiving, an activity that has a place on the bucket list of many travelers. There’s no better place to accomplish this goal than Interlaken!

Interlaken is one of the top sky diving sites in the world because of the scenery of the Jungfrau Mountains and the nearby Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Switzerland is very expensive, and sky diving here will cost you hundreds of dollars.

But honestly, sky diving in Interlaken is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so go for it if you’re feeling bold!

10. Bungee Jump

I did mention that Interlaken is the Adventure Capital of Switzerland, right?

The adventurous activities here are endless. So if you’re not planning on skydiving or paragliding, you might as well go bungee jumping!

Again, Interlaken is expensive but it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world to try some of these adrenaline-pumping sports. So book that bungee jumping tour and relive it in your head until the day you die.

Thanks for reading my list of the best things to do in Interlaken Switzerland.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities and adventures, this is the perfect place in Europe to visit.

From the Funky Chocolate Club, to boat cruises or a kayak tour on Lake Brienz or Lake Thun, to all the stunning scenery near Interlaken, you’re sure to have a blast!

Travel Tips for Interlaken Switzerland

After planning all the best things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland, you may have some other questions. Here are some travel tips for visiting this gorgeous corner of Central Europe!

Which month is best for Interlaken?

The best month to visit Interlaken depends on what you’re looking for! It’s a beautiful place year-round, so it just depends if you prefer warm weather, lots of snow for winter sports, or cheap prices.

June, July, and August have the nicest weather. You’ll have warm temperatures and sunny days for hiking and exploring outdoors.

December, January, and February are the best for winter sports. If you want to ski or snowboard in Interlaken, the winter months are perfect. December also has Christmas markets and decorations! But some activities like canyoning and hiking may be unavailable.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn have great prices if you’re looking to explore Europe on a budget .

How many days in Interlaken is enough?

3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Interlaken if you want to experience lots of fun activities but also avoid spending a fortune.

Switzerland is quite expensive, so staying for a week or more can be pretty costly. Especially if you’re staying in a hotel and eating out!

People often ask, “Is 2 days enough in Interlaken?” and it definitely can be! Just make sure you have enough time for all the adventure activities that you want to try. Interlaken is so stunning and you can’t miss things like skiing in the Alps or bungy jumping if you want.

I would say 1 day in Interlaken isn’t enough. 2 days in Interlaken is decent, but 3 days is ideal. You can spend 1 full day on the mountains skiing or snowboarding, then still have 2 more days for exploring town and doing some other activities like kayaking or cruising on Lake Brienz.

Flights and Transport to Interlaken Switzerland

Here are my favorite websites for finding cheap flights and transport around Europe.

Skyscanner : Amazing for finding cheap flights.

Rome2Rio and Bookaway : Great for comparing ground transportation options.

Find more tips in my article: Travel Hacks For Europe

Travel Insurance for Interlaken Switzerland

You should always consider travel insurance for a trip abroad.

But if you plan on doing anything crazy in Interlaken, like canyoning, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or sky diving, you should 100% have insurance just in case you have an accident.

I personally recommend Squaremouth Insurance . They have affordable plans and a helpful live chat for asking questions!

Visas for Switzerland

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to visit Switzerland.

Visit iVisa.com to check visa requirements before you leave for your trip.

For more travel tips and stories around Europe , check out these articles!

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Budapest Budget Travel Guide

London: The Ultimate Budget Travel Guide

12 Best Things To See In Barcelona, Spain

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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Places to Visit in Interlaken

• Switzerland
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in Interlaken

Here are some of the best places to visit in interlaken:.

Harder Kulm

Ever wondered what would give you the best panoramic view of the Swiss Alps? Switzerland teems with such viewpoints but the one that tops the list is the Harder Kulm mountain in the beautiful city of Interlaken!

Top Experiences To Do in Harder Kulm

Widely held for its amazing historical significance as well as imposing architectural marvels, Unterseen is a township in the Interlaken district of Switzerland. The city of Unterseen is also home to numerous heritage sites of national significance.

Nestled amidst the two Bernese Oberland towns called Thun and Interlaken, Lake Thun is a beautiful Alpine Lake brimming with deep blue water. Cuddled on the northern periphery of the majestic Mount Alps, the lake possesses a beautiful backdrop which is reflected vividly on its crystal clear surface.

Hohematte Park

Hohematte Park is a scenic open space spread over 35 acres of land, nestled in the heart of the town of Interlaken. If you are in the area and looking to spend time in the midst of breathtaking natural beauty without having to leave your comfort zone, then this park is the place for you.

Jungfraujoch

Famous for being one of the highest accessible points in Europe, Jungfraujoch lies at a height of 3,463 meters above sea level. This iconic destination in Switzerland is a must visit for the state of the art rail ride, some of the most spectacular views, and lovely ice sculptures at chilling temperatures.

Top Experiences To Do in Jungfraujoch

Heimwehfluh

You can take a cable car from the Interlaken West station to reach the mountain of Heimwehfluh. This is a fun place to visit in Interlaken for the whole family as you can enjoy a plethora of activities at the top. The summit also has an adventure playground where your kids can run around while you enjoy a delicious meal at the Panorama restaurant.

Schynige Platte

Schynige Platte, a small mountain ridge and a viewpoint are another of Switzerland's most attractive tourist destinations. Based out in the Bernese Highlands, this has three peaks - Gumihorn (6886 ft), Tuba (6811 ft), and Geiss (6781 ft). Well, Geiss is the nearest peak to the viewpoint. Right at the viewpoint, you will be at an altitude of 7000 ft and can enjoy the serene and natural beauty around.

Seilpark (Adventure Park Interlaken)

Seilpark Interlaken is a ropes adventure park which contains nine rope courses of varying heights and difficulty. This makes it a fun tourist place in Interlaken for people of all ages, experience and proficiency.

Iseltwald Dorf

Iseltwald is a charming village situated next to Lake Brienz in Switzerland. It offers astounding views of turquoise waters and lush greenery and is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps. You can stroll on the lakefront walkway here, go on boat tours, or discover the local hiking paths, too. This Village is famous for its traditional Swiss charm, cosy guesthouses, and peaceful atmosphere.

Top Of Europe Ice Magic

If you happen to be in Interlaken between December and February, you can easily choose to spend a day ice skating at the literal Top of Europe. It is one of the most popular tourist places in Interlaken and for a reason! When here, you can spend time honing your skills at any one of the three practice ice rinks or try your hand at the main ice rink if you feel up to the challenge.

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Schlosskirche

Schlosskirche is perhaps one of the oldest buildings in the town. This ancient castle church, built in the year 1133, is one of the must-visit tourist places in Interlaken if you admire history. Around the time of its construction and a long time afterwards, the place was in use as a monastery.

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Lake Brienz

Situated in the Canton of Berne, Lake Brienz is a wonderful lake in the north of the Alps spread over an area close to almost 29.8 square kilometres. The lake is about 14 kilometres long, 2.8 kilometres wide and 260 meters deep. Lake Brienz is one of the deepest lakes in Switzerland.

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Oberhofen Castle

This picturesque castle is located in the heart of a beautiful park on Lake Thun and is considered one of the most romantic places in the country. It offers a magnificent view of the surrounding areas and where you can discover the museum residing in the castle, with an enriching history of the former natives.

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Unspunnen Castle

Unspunnen Castle can definitely be counted amongst the top places to see in Interlaken when you are in the town. This 12th-century castle stands at a noteworthy height, towering the town of Interlaken.

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If you travel northwards along the Brienz Lake, you will reach a relatively small, quieter lake which has not been discovered by many tourists yet. Burgseeli offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Alps along with solitude and privacy.

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Weissenau Castle

Weissenau Castle falls in the canton of Bern and is one of the lesser-known places to visit in Interlaken. Its historical importance has landed the castle a place in the list of Swiss heritage sites of national importance.

Best of Switzerland

St. Beatus Caves

Imagine your most beautiful screensavers coming to life; that’s what the St. Beatus Caves look like. Situated majestically on the shore of Lake Thun, these caves are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, located close to Interlaken in Switzerland.

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Touristik Museum (Museum Of Tourism)

Touristik Museum or the Museum of Tourism is a great place to spend your afternoon when in Interlaken. The place offers a deep insight into the history of tourism in the entire region and how different factors came together to make it one of the world's most sought-after tourist destinations.

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Interlaken Monastery And Castle

Step into a world of medieval splendor. Explore the rich history of the monastery, wander through picturesque gardens, and admire the architectural grandeur of the castle. 

Best of Zurich

Rugenbraeu Brewery

The Rugenbrau Brewery had humble beginnings and was started by Christian Indermühle in the year 1866. Generations later, this is still a family-owned business today and is run through a partnership with the Bavarian brew-master Joseph Hofweber.

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Trümmelbach Falls

Trummelbach Falls are a series of spectacular falls that have been made accessible through a tunnel funicular built in the year 1913. The funicular allows you to walk several steps through the mountain to observe these glacier-fed waterfalls up-close.

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Weissenau Nature Reserve

The Weissenau Nature Reserve is a protected area situated on an old delta by the same name. It sits on the landscape of Aare and Lombach at the upper end of Lake Thun.

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Nestled in the heart of Switzerland along the lake Thun, Spiez is an extravagant location that is untarnished by urbanisation. This quaint town is a nature’s den of beauty seated on an elevation of 628 meters above sea level. The official language spoken here is German but the natives are also familiar with other languages like English, French, and others.

Once you have spent your day sightseeing, visiting the many places to see in Interlaken, you can unwind at the Interlaken Casino. The place is a lively local casino which offers top-notch hospitality and a wide range of games to choose from!

People Also Ask About Interlaken

What are the best places to visit in interlaken in winters, what are the famous places to visit in interlaken for couples, which part of switzerland is the most beautiful.

Switzerland is considered to be heaven on earth and all of its cities are beautiful and worth exploring in one or the other way. The beautiful places to visit in Interlaken and other major cities make Switzerland even more beautiful. However, the most beautiful parts of Switzerland that you cannot miss out on your visit to this country include Interlaken, Zurich, Geneva, and Basel.

What is the best time to visit Switzerland?

The best time to visit Switzerland and enjoy all the places to visit in Interlaken in the best way possible is from the month of June to September. Switzerland experiences summer during this period along with pleasant and breezy weather which allows you to experience the natural beauty of the country in a beautiful way.

Is Switzerland famous for honeymoons?

Yes, Switzerland is amongst one of the best honeymoon destinations in the entire world due to its natural beauty, amazing weather, and great hospitality. Apart from that, the beautiful Interlaken attractions, boasting their rich history, culture, and architecture, further make Switzerland a beautiful place for honeymoons.

How much does a trip to Switzerland cost?

For a solo traveller, a 7 day trip to Switzerland, including visit to all the Interlaken attractions, along with other major cities would cost approximately $1642. However, if you are planning a honeymoon to this beautiful destination with your better half, it would cost approximately $ 2423 for the duo.

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Your holiday home in the heart of Switzerland

Find your favourite place between lakes Thun and Brienz

Discover beautiful holiday spots ringed by mountain peaks in a peerless location between lakes Thun and Brienz. With the breathtaking backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau forming part of a stunning natural landscape, picture-perfect holiday times are assured. Enjoy an unforgettable stay in a spruce mountain village with fabulous views, a rural setting amid lush green meadows or lively Interlaken. The towns and villages around Interlaken make ideal bases for all manner of excursions in the holiday region and the Jungfrau area, and the rest of the Bernese Oberland. Scores of sights, day-trip destinations, tourist highlights and unique hideaways are there to be discovered. Find your favourite place in and around Interlaken.

Experience the magical blend of lakes and mountains

Breathtaking views and mountain adventures close to your holiday base

Ideal starting points for excursions around the Jungfrau region and the Bernese Oberland

Discover an incredible diversity of hidden natural gems

Central location in the heart of Switzerland

Explore cosmopolitan Interlaken and picturesque holiday towns and villages in the heart of the Swiss countryside:

Enjoy the mountain panorama high above the lake

Discover the traditional mountain village

Interlaken – Matten – Unterseen

Discover the variety of nature, adventure and hideaways

Wilderswil – Gsteigwiler – Saxeten

This is where you experience true nature