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Ultimate Interlaken Travel Guide

Ultimate Interlaken Travel Guide: The Adventure Capital of Switzerland

Interlaken: The Adventure Capital of Switzerland - Your Ultimate Travel Guide

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Introduction: Between Two Lakes

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken lives up to its name as the town "between lakes" – positioned perfectly between the crystal-clear waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This breathtaking location, framed by the majestic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, creates one of Europe's most spectacular natural amphitheaters. Interlaken isn't just a destination; it's a gateway to some of Switzerland's most iconic alpine experiences.

What makes Interlaken truly extraordinary is its unique combination of serene natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping adventure. Here, you can start your day with a peaceful cruise on turquoise waters and end it paragliding over those same lakes with snow-capped peaks as your backdrop. The town serves as the perfect base camp for exploring the Jungfrau Region, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on earth. From the highest railway station in Europe to some of the continent's most thrilling outdoor activities, Interlaken offers access to experiences found nowhere else.

The town's vibe is simultaneously adventurous, romantic, and cosmopolitan. Adventure seekers from around the world gather here for world-class skiing, hiking, and extreme sports, while couples find romance in the stunning landscapes and luxury hotels. The main street, Höheweg, buzzes with international energy while maintaining Swiss precision and cleanliness. Interlaken manages to be both an adrenaline junkie's paradise and a peaceful retreat, where the sound of cowbells from surrounding meadows mingles with the excited shouts of paragliders landing in the central park.

How to Get to Interlaken

Interlaken's excellent transportation infrastructure makes it surprisingly accessible despite its alpine location, with multiple options for reaching this mountain paradise.

By Air

The nearest international airports are:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH): Approximately 120km away - the largest international gateway with global connections
  • Geneva Airport (GVA): Approximately 200km away - excellent for international flights
  • EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL): Approximately 150km away - serving three countries
  • Bern Airport (BRN): Approximately 50km away - smaller but closest option

From these airports, you can reach Interlaken by:

  • Train: Switzerland's efficient rail system offers direct connections (2-2.5 hours from Zurich/Geneva)
  • Car Rental: Available at all airports (scenic drive but consider parking costs in Interlaken)
  • Private Transfer: More expensive but convenient with luggage

By Train

Interlaken has two main stations with excellent connections:

  • Interlaken Ost (East): Main station for regional trains and connections to Jungfrau region
  • Interlaken West: Closer to the town center and many hotels

Key train connections:

  • From Zurich: Direct trains via Bern (approx. 2 hours)
  • From Geneva: Direct trains via Bern (approx. 3 hours)
  • From Lucerne: Scenic GoldenPass Line (approx. 2 hours)
  • From Bern: Frequent regional trains (approx. 1 hour)

By Car

Interlaken is accessible via the A8 motorway. Approximate driving times:

  • Zurich: 2 hours
  • Geneva: 3 hours
  • Lucerne: 1 hour
  • Bern: 45 minutes
  • Basel: 2 hours

Local Transportation

Once in Interlaken, you'll find an integrated transportation system:

  • Walking: The town center is compact and easily walkable
  • Buses: Local buses connect both train stations and outlying areas
  • Trains: Frequent services between Interlaken Ost and West stations
  • Boats: Scenic boat services on both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
  • Bicycles: Rental available for exploring the flat valley floor
  • Mountain Railways: Essential for reaching higher elevations and nearby villages

Travel Tip: The Swiss Travel Pass offers excellent value if you plan extensive travel by train, bus, and boat throughout Switzerland. For shorter stays, the Jungfrau Travel Pass covers unlimited travel in the immediate region.

Where to Stay in Interlaken

Interlaken offers diverse accommodation options from luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses. The best location depends on your priorities – staying near the town center for convenience, by the lakes for tranquility, or in the surrounding villages for authentic alpine experiences.

Luxury Hotels

Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

This historic 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms with mountain views, an extensive spa, and exceptional dining. The perfect choice for those seeking classic Swiss elegance and world-class amenities.

Location: Höheweg

Price Range: €€€€

Beau-Rivage Hotel

A beautiful 4-star hotel with a prime location on the Aare River. Features modern rooms, excellent service, and stunning views of the Jungfrau massif from many rooms.

Location: Höheweg

Price Range: €€€

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Interlaken

One of Interlaken's oldest hotels, dating back to 1323, with modern comforts and traditional charm. Central location with beautiful gardens and excellent restaurant.

Location: Central Interlaken

Price Range: €€€

Hotel Chalet Swiss

Modern chalet-style hotel with comfortable rooms and balconies offering mountain views. Includes breakfast and convenient access to both train stations.

Location: Central Interlaken

Price Range: €€

Budget Accommodations

Balmer's Hostel

Interlaken's most famous hostel, popular with young travelers and adventure seekers. Offers both dormitory and private rooms with a lively social atmosphere.

Location: Hauptstrasse

Price Range: €

Hotel Lotschberg

Family-run hotel offering excellent value with comfortable rooms and homemade breakfast. Known for warm hospitality and central location.

Location: General Guisan Strasse

Price Range: €€

Unique Stays

Schloss Hotel Oberhofen

Stay in a fairytale castle on the shores of Lake Thun. This historic hotel offers luxurious rooms with lake and mountain views, just a short drive from Interlaken.

Location: Oberhofen am Thunersee

Price Range: €€€€

Mountain Hostel

Located in Gimmelwald, this rustic hostel offers breathtaking alpine views and access to some of the region's best hiking. Perfect for mountain enthusiasts.

Location: Gimmelwald

Price Range: €

What to See: Main Attractions

Interlaken's attractions showcase the stunning natural beauty of the Bernese Oberland while providing access to some of Switzerland's most iconic mountain experiences.

Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe

This legendary mountain excursion takes you to the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters above sea level. The journey itself is spectacular, passing through the Eiger and Mönch mountains before emerging at the Sphinx Observatory with panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier (Europe's longest). At the top, you can walk through the Ice Palace carved into the glacier, visit the Alpine Exhibition, and stand on the snow-covered plateau with views stretching to neighboring countries on clear days. This is arguably Switzerland's most famous mountain experience and worth every Swiss franc.

Harder Kulm

Interlaken's own mountain, reached via a funicular railway that climbs steeply from the town center. At 1,322 meters, the viewing platform offers what's often called the most beautiful panoramic view in Switzerland – Interlaken nestled between its two lakes with the entire Jungfrau massif as a backdrop. The Two Lakes Bridge extends from the restaurant for unobstructed photography, and evening visits offer stunning sunset views. This is the most accessible mountain viewpoint from Interlaken and perfect for those with limited time.

St. Beatus Caves

According to legend, these spectacular limestone caves were once home to St. Beatus, who drove out a dragon in the 6th century. Today, visitors can explore over a kilometer of illuminated pathways past dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls. The caves extend deep into the mountain above Lake Thun, and the visit includes a multimedia presentation about the legend and geology. The location itself is breathtaking, with pathways clinging to cliffs above the lake and offering stunning views.

Unterseen Old Town

Just across the Aare River from Interlaken lies Unterseen, the historic core of the area founded in 1280. This beautifully preserved medieval town features narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Swiss houses with flower boxes, and the impressive Town Hall Square. The 14th-century church and remaining fortifications give a sense of the area's long history. It's a peaceful alternative to Interlaken's more tourist-centered atmosphere and offers authentic restaurants and cafes frequented by locals.

Mystery Park

Created by Erich von Däniken, this unique theme park explores mysteries of the ancient world and unexplained phenomena. The seven pavilions cover topics from the Nazca Lines and Maya civilization to UFOs and ancient astronauts. While controversial, the park is beautifully designed and thought-provoking, offering an unusual alternative to mountain excursions, particularly on rainy days. The architecture alone, with its pyramid and futuristic structures, makes for interesting photography.

Höheweg Promenade

Interlaken's main boulevard stretches between the two train stations and serves as the town's social and commercial heart. Lined with hotels, shops, and restaurants, it also features the magnificent Höhematte Park – a 35-acre green space where paragliders land and visitors relax with uninterrupted mountain views. The promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, people-watching, and enjoying the spectacular scenery that makes Interlaken famous.

Things to Do: Activities & Experiences

Interlaken offers an incredible range of activities that leverage its spectacular natural setting, from gentle lake cruises to extreme alpine adventures.

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking: Endless trails from gentle lakeside walks to challenging alpine routes
  • Lake Cruises: Scenic boat trips on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
  • Paragliding: Tandem flights with experienced pilots offering bird's-eye views
  • Skydiving: Jump from 4,000 meters with the Eiger as backdrop
  • Canyoning: Explore mountain gorges with rappelling, sliding, and jumping
  • Rafting: Whitewater adventures on the Lütschine and Simme rivers

Tours & Guided Experiences

  • Guided Hikes: Expert-led walks to hidden alpine locations
  • Chocolate Factory Tours: Visit local producers like Schuh in Interlaken
  • Cheese Making Demos: Learn about traditional Swiss cheese production
  • Photography Tours: Guided sessions to capture the best landscapes
  • Wine Tasting: Sample Swiss wines from nearby vineyards
  • Via Ferrata: Guided climbing routes with fixed cables and ladders

Seasonal Activities

  • Spring: Waterfall viewing as snow melts, wildflower hikes
  • Summer: All adventure sports, open-air concerts, swimming in lakes
  • Autumn: Spectacular foliage, harvest festivals, quieter trails
  • Winter: Skiing in Jungfrau region, Christmas markets, snowshoeing

Nightlife & Entertainment

  • Casino Interlaken: Gaming, restaurants, and shows in historic building
  • Balmer's Pub: Legendary hostel bar popular with international crowd
  • Music & Folk Evenings: Traditional Swiss entertainment at various hotels
  • Stargazing: Clear mountain skies perfect for astronomy
  • Night Hikes: Guided walks with headlamps for different perspectives
  • Fine Dining: Romantic restaurants with mountain views

Food & Drink: Swiss Alpine Cuisine

Interlaken's culinary scene combines traditional Swiss dishes with international influences, reflecting its global visitor base while maintaining alpine authenticity.

Traditional Dishes to Try

  • Fondue: Melted cheese dip with bread – the ultimate Swiss experience
  • Raclette: Melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions
  • Rösti: Crispy potato pancake, often served with meat or eggs
  • Älplermagronen: Alpine macaroni with potatoes, cheese, and onions
  • Berner Platte: Meat platter with various sausages and cured meats
  • Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: Veal in creamy mushroom sauce

Recommended Restaurants

Restaurant Cuisine Price Range Special Features
Schuh Swiss & International €€€ Historic tea room with chocolate factory and mountain views
Restaurant Laterne Traditional Swiss €€ Cozy atmosphere, excellent fondue and raclette
Goldener Anker Swiss & Mediterranean €€ Popular with locals, lively atmosphere
Husi Bierhaus Pub Food €€ Traditional beer hall with Swiss and German dishes
Migros Restaurant International € Self-service, budget-friendly, supermarket-based

Local Specialties & Drinks

Don't miss trying local cheeses from the surrounding alpine pastures, particularly from the Justistal valley. Swiss chocolate is essential – visit the Schuh confiserie for handmade creations. For drinks, sample Rivella (unique Swiss soft drink), local beers from Rugenbräu, and Swiss wines which are rarely exported but excellent quality. The region's alpine herbs are used in various schnapps and teas worth trying.

Shopping in Interlaken

Shopping in Interlaken ranges from traditional Swiss crafts to outdoor adventure gear, with something for every taste and budget.

Shopping Areas

  • Höheweg: Main boulevard with souvenir shops and watch stores
  • Central Interlaken: Streets around the train stations with diverse shops
  • Unterseen: More authentic boutiques and local crafts
  • Jungfraustrasse: Outdoor gear and sports equipment

Local Boutiques & Specialties

  • Swiss Watch Shops: Multiple stores offering famous Swiss brands
  • Chocolate Shops: Schuh, Laderach, and local confiseries
  • Swiss Army Knives: Victorinox flagship store with engraving
  • Wood Carvings: Traditional craft from the Brienz region

Markets

  • Weekly Market: Tuesday morning in Unterseen (local produce)
  • Christmas Market: Seasonal market with crafts and food (December)
  • Farmers' Markets: Occasional markets in surrounding villages

Souvenir Ideas

  • Swiss chocolate from local confiseries
  • Swiss watches or army knives
  • Cowbells and traditional wood carvings
  • Local cheeses and wines
  • Alpine herb products and teas
  • Mountain sports clothing and equipment

Culture & Local Life

Beyond the tourist attractions, Interlaken maintains strong local traditions and a vibrant community life that reflects its unique position between urban convenience and alpine wilderness.

Festivals & Events

The Interlaken Music Festival brings classical performances to various venues each summer. The Greenfield Festival attracts rock music fans with international acts. Traditional events include Alpine cattle drives in spring and autumn when cows move to and from high pastures, decorated with flowers and bells. The Christmas markets in Interlaken and surrounding villages create magical winter atmospheres with local crafts and food.

Art & Music Scene

While Interlaken isn't known as an arts capital, it offers cultural experiences rooted in alpine traditions. The Touristik Museum explores the history of tourism in the region. Local artisans continue wood carving traditions from nearby Brienz. Music is ever-present, from alphorn players performing in the Höhematte park to yodeling demonstrations at cultural events. The stunning natural scenery has inspired artists for centuries, with several galleries showcasing landscape paintings and photography.

Local Stories & Legends

The legend of St. Beatus and the dragon is the area's most famous folk tale, telling how the saint drove a dragon from the caves above Lake Thun. Stories of early alpine explorers and mountaineers who first conquered the Eiger's north face are part of local lore. The history of tourism itself is fascinating – Interlaken transformed from a small monastic settlement to an international resort destination in the 19th century, attracting famous visitors from Mark Twain to Queen Victoria.

Practical Information

Understanding the practical details of visiting Interlaken will help you make the most of your Swiss alpine adventure.

Safety & Local Laws

  • Interlaken is very safe with low crime rates
  • Emergency number: 112 for all emergencies
  • Mountain safety: Check weather conditions before hiking
  • Adventure sports: Use reputable companies with proper insurance
  • Drinking age: 16 for beer/wine, 18 for spirits

Transportation Passes

  • Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited travel on trains, buses, boats
  • Jungfrau Travel Pass: Regional travel including some mountain railways
  • Half-Fare Card: 50% discount on all Swiss travel for one month
  • Boat passes: Day passes available for lake cruises
  • Bike rental: Approximately CHF 25-40 per day

Weather & Best Times to Visit

  • Spring (Apr-Jun): Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, some rain
  • Summer (Jul-Aug): Warmest weather, all activities available, most crowded
  • Autumn (Sep-Oct): Cooler, beautiful foliage, fewer crowds
  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Cold, snow sports, Christmas markets

Money Matters

  • Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
  • Credit cards widely accepted
  • Average meal: CHF 25-50 (mid-range restaurant)
  • Mountain excursion: CHF 50-200 (depending on destination)
  • Hotel (mid-range): CHF 150-300 per night

Hidden Gems: Beyond the Tourist Trail

While the major attractions are spectacular, discovering Interlaken's lesser-known corners provides a more intimate experience of this alpine paradise.

Secret Viewpoints

Instead of only visiting Harder Kulm, hike to the Augstmatthorn for breathtaking views over Lake Brienz – the effort is rewarded with fewer crowds and possible ibex sightings. The Justistal valley above Sigriswil offers stunning panoramas of Lake Thun rarely seen by tourists. For a unique perspective, take the postbus to Iseltwald and walk the forest path back toward Interlaken for constantly changing lake views.

Quiet Parks & Gardens

While the Höhematte is beautiful, it can get crowded. For more tranquility, visit the Japanese Garden near the Kursaal, a gift from Interlaken's sister city. The parks along the Aare River between the two lakes offer peaceful walking paths with mountain views. The forest above Unterseen provides shaded trails with occasional clearings offering stunning vistas.

Lesser-Known Museums

Skip the more commercial attractions and visit the Touristik Museum to understand how Interlaken became a world-famous destination. The Museum of Swiss Chivalry in Thun Castle makes an excellent day trip combining history with beautiful views. The Ballenberg Open-Air Museum near Brienz showcases traditional Swiss architecture and crafts in a stunning setting.

Local Eateries & Cafés

Venture into Unterseen to discover authentic local favorites like Restaurant Bären with its traditional Swiss cuisine and cozy atmosphere. For coffee, try Crêperie Bistrot de la Gare near Interlaken West station, popular with locals. The farm restaurants in surrounding villages like Matten and Wilderswil offer homemade dishes with ingredients from their own farms.

Suggested Itineraries

These carefully planned itineraries will help you experience the best of Interlaken whether you have just one day or a full week to explore.

24-Hour Guide

Morning: Harder Kulm for panoramic views, explore Höheweg and Höhematte

Afternoon: Lake Brienz cruise to Giessbach Falls, return via train

Evening: Traditional Swiss dinner, evening stroll along Aare River

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Jungfraujoch excursion, evening in Interlaken with fondue dinner

Day 2: Lake Thun cruise with visit to St. Beatus Caves, afternoon adventure activity

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Harder Kulm, Interlaken exploration, lake cruise

Day 2: Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn excursion

Day 3: Adventure activity (paragliding/canyoning), visit to surrounding village

Family Itinerary

Morning: Harder Kulm funicular, easy walk with panoramic views

Afternoon: St. Beatus Caves or Mystery Park, chocolate shopping

Evening: Family-friendly dinner, evening walk to see paragliders land

Romantic Itinerary

Morning: Private boat tour on Lake Brienz, picnic at Iseltwald

Afternoon: Cable car to Schynige Platte for alpine gardens and views

Evening: Fine dining with mountain views, sunset at Harder Kulm

Nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Interlaken's central location makes it the perfect base for exploring the wider Bernese Oberland region and beyond.

Lauterbrunnen Valley

This spectacular U-shaped valley features 72 waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls. The villages of Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Mürren offer classic alpine scenery and access to incredible hiking trails.

Distance: 15km

Travel Time: 20 minutes by train

Grindelwald

Known as the "Glacier Village," Grindelwald sits at the foot of the Eiger North Face and offers numerous outdoor activities year-round. The First cliff walk and Bachalpsee lake are highlights.

Distance: 20km

Travel Time: 35 minutes by train

Thun

This beautiful medieval city at the western end of Lake Thun features a spectacular castle, charming old town, and excellent shopping. The walk along the river and through the old town is particularly picturesque.

Distance: 30km

Travel Time: 30 minutes by train or boat

Brienz

Famous for wood carving and the steam-powered Brienz Rothorn Railway, this village on Lake Brienz offers a more tranquil alternative to Interlaken with equally stunning scenery.

Distance: 15km

Travel Time: 20 minutes by train or boat

Schilthorn

Famous as the filming location for a James Bond movie, this peak offers 360-degree views of the Alps. The rotating restaurant Piz Gloria makes for a memorable dining experience.

Distance: 25km

Travel Time: 1.5 hours by train and cable car

Bern

Switzerland's capital features a beautifully preserved medieval old town (UNESCO World Heritage), bear park, and excellent museums. A perfect contrast to the alpine scenery.

Distance: 50km

Travel Time: 1 hour by train

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Interlaken too touristy compared to other Swiss destinations?

While Interlaken is undoubtedly popular with tourists, it serves as an essential transport hub and gateway to the Jungfrau Region. The tourist infrastructure means excellent services and accessibility. To escape crowds, visit nearby villages like Iseltwald, Brienz, or explore the many hiking trails that quickly leave the crowds behind. Early mornings and evenings in Interlaken itself are also much quieter.

What's the best way to manage costs in expensive Interlaken?

Consider staying in surrounding villages like Wilderswil or Matten for lower accommodation costs. Purchase food from supermarkets like Migros or Coop for picnics. The Swiss Half-Fare Card offers significant savings on transport. Many natural attractions like hiking trails and lake beaches are free. Visit in shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for lower prices and fewer crowds.

How do I choose between Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn?

Jungfraujoch offers glacier experiences and Europe's highest railway station, making it more unique but also more expensive and crowded. Schilthorn provides 360-degree panoramic views and James Bond theming at a lower cost. Jungfraujoch is better for those wanting glacier access, while Schilthorn offers superior all-around mountain views. Consider weather conditions as both require clear days for the best experience.

Is Interlaken suitable for visitors with mobility issues?

Interlaken's town center is relatively flat and accessible, but mountain excursions present challenges. Boat cruises on the lakes are wheelchair accessible, and some mountain railways like Harder Kulm can accommodate mobility devices. However, higher altitude destinations like Jungfraujoch involve significant walking and stairs. It's best to contact specific attractions in advance about accessibility needs and consider travel insurance that covers any limitations.

What should I pack for Interlaken in different seasons?

Layered clothing is essential year-round as mountain weather changes rapidly. In summer, pack hiking boots, rain jacket, sunscreen, and sunglasses alongside summer clothes. Spring and autumn require warmer layers and waterproof gear. Winter demands thermal layers, proper winter boots, and cold-weather accessories. Regardless of season, bring comfortable walking shoes and a daypack for excursions.

How does the weather affect mountain excursions?

Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable and can differ significantly from conditions in Interlaken. Always check specific mountain forecasts rather than valley weather. Cloud cover can obscure views at higher elevations even on clear days in the valley. Many excursions offer partial refunds if views are completely obscured, but it's better to reschedule if possible. Early mornings often provide clearer conditions before afternoon clouds develop.

What makes Interlaken better than other Swiss mountain bases?

Interlaken's unique advantage is its location between two stunning lakes with immediate access to the Jungfrau Region's iconic mountains. The town offers the perfect balance of tourist infrastructure and natural beauty, serving as an ideal base rather than just a destination. The flat valley floor provides easy cycling and walking, while the efficient transport network makes exploring effortless. No other Swiss location offers such diverse landscapes and activities in such close proximity.

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