Interlaken Switzerland sits between two stunning lakes and draws over one million visitors every single year. This small town in the Bernese Oberland region packs more natural beauty into a tiny area than most countries can claim. Mountains, waterfalls, and crystal clear lakes surround you from every direction the moment you arrive.
If you want to plan a trip to Interlaken Switzerland without wasting time or money, this guide covers everything you need. You will learn where to go, what to do, where to eat, and how to get around. Let us walk through the details so you can make the most of your visit.
Why Interlaken Switzerland Deserves a Spot on Your List
The location is the biggest reason travelers keep coming back year after year. Interlaken Switzerland sits right between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, which gives you water views on both sides of town. The famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau tower above the valley and create a backdrop that looks almost unreal.
Getting there is also surprisingly easy for a mountain town. Direct trains connect Interlaken Switzerland to major cities like Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne. The Swiss rail system is clean, punctual, and simple to use even if you have never been to Europe before.
Outdoor activities fill every season with exciting options for all skill levels. You can ski in the winter, hike in the summer, and paraglide in the spring or fall. Few places on Earth offer that much variety in such a compact area.
The Best Things to Do in Interlaken Switzerland
Riding the train to Jungfraujoch is the single most popular activity in the region. This railway takes you to the highest train station in Europe at over 11,000 feet above sea level. The views from the top include massive glaciers and snow covered peaks that stretch as far as your eyes can see.
Paragliding over the lakes gives you a perspective that no photo can truly capture. You launch from a hillside above the town and float gently above Lake Brienz and the green valleys below. The entire flight lasts about 15 minutes and costs around 170 Swiss francs.
Hiking trails surround Interlaken Switzerland in every direction and suit all fitness levels. The Harder Kulm trail is a short climb that rewards you with a panoramic view of both lakes. Longer routes take you deep into the Lauterbrunnen Valley where 72 waterfalls cascade down sheer cliff faces.
Boat cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are relaxing and affordable ways to see the scenery. The boats run several times a day during the warmer months and stop at charming lakeside villages. You can hop on and off at your own pace to explore small towns along the shore.
Where to Stay in Interlaken Switzerland
Budget travelers can find clean hostels starting around 40 Swiss francs per night. Places like Balmers Hostel and Backpackers Villa offer dorm beds and private rooms at fair prices. These spots also have kitchens where you can cook your own meals and save even more money.
Mid range hotels in Interlaken Switzerland typically cost between 120 and 200 francs per night. The Hotel Interlaken and Hotel Bernerhof sit close to the train station and put you within walking distance of most attractions. Booking a few months in advance during peak season will get you the best rates.
Luxury options include the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel, which has been welcoming guests since 1865. The rooms are spacious and the spa is one of the finest in all of Switzerland. Expect to pay 400 francs or more per night for this level of comfort and service.
How to Get Around Interlaken Switzerland
Walking is the easiest way to explore the town center and the area between the two train stations. The main strip called Höheweg is flat, wide, and lined with shops and cafes. You can walk from one end of town to the other in about 20 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Local buses connect Interlaken Switzerland to nearby villages like Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. The buses run frequently and accept the same tickets as the trains. A Swiss Travel Pass covers most of these routes and can save you a significant amount of money over several days.
Renting a bicycle is a fun and cheap way to ride along the lake shores. Several shops near the train station rent bikes for about 25 francs per day. The paths along Lake Brienz are flat and scenic, making them perfect for casual riders of any age.
What to Eat in Interlaken Switzerland
Swiss food is hearty, simple, and deeply satisfying after a long day outdoors. Rösti is a crispy potato dish that shows up on almost every local menu. It pairs perfectly with melted cheese, fried eggs, or a thick slice of ham.
Fondue and raclette are the two cheese dishes you absolutely must try during your visit. Fondue involves dipping bread into a pot of melted cheese at your table. Raclette features melted cheese scraped over boiled potatoes and pickled onions.
Chocolate and pastries are everywhere in Interlaken Switzerland and hard to resist. Local bakeries sell fresh croissants, fruit tarts, and meringues piled high with whipped cream. A stop at Funky Chocolate Club lets you taste and even make your own Swiss chocolate.
When to Visit Interlaken Switzerland
Summer from June to August brings the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours. Temperatures hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for hiking and lake activities. This is also the busiest season, so expect larger crowds and higher hotel prices.
Fall from September to October offers cooler air and stunning golden colors on the hillsides. The summer crowds thin out quickly, and hotel rates drop by 20 to 30 percent. This is a great time to visit if you prefer quieter trails and shorter lines at popular attractions.
Winter from December to March transforms Interlaken Switzerland into a snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders. The nearby resorts of Grindelwald and Mürren offer world class slopes just a short train ride away. The town itself gets a cozy feel with holiday markets and warm fireside dinners.
Spring from April to May is the quietest season and the most affordable time to visit. Snow still covers the highest peaks while wildflowers begin to bloom in the lower valleys. Some hiking trails may still be closed due to snow, so check conditions before you go.
Day Trips from Interlaken Switzerland
Lauterbrunnen Valley is just 20 minutes away by train and feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The valley floor is flat and green, with towering cliffs on both sides and dozens of waterfalls pouring down the rock faces. Staubbach Falls drops nearly 1,000 feet and is visible right from the village center.
Grindelwald sits on the other side of the mountains and serves as a gateway to the Eiger glacier. The village is charming and compact, with wooden chalets and flower filled balconies lining every street. A cable car ride to First gives you access to a cliff walk and a mountain cart track.
Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and sits just one hour away by direct train. The old town is a UNESCO site with medieval arcades, a famous clock tower, and a bear park along the river. A day trip to Bern adds a nice cultural contrast to the outdoor activities around Interlaken Switzerland.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, so budget carefully before you go. A basic lunch at a restaurant costs around 25 to 35 francs per person. Grocery stores like Coop and Migros sell sandwiches and salads for about 8 to 12 francs if you want to save money.
The Swiss franc is the local currency, and most places do not accept euros. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants. Carry some cash for small shops, bus tickets, and mountain huts that may not take cards.
Here is a quick overview of average costs to help you plan your budget:
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Hostel bed per night | 40 to 60 francs |
| Mid range hotel per night | 120 to 200 francs |
| Restaurant lunch | 25 to 35 francs |
| Jungfraujoch train ticket | 200 to 240 francs |
| Paragliding flight | 170 to 190 francs |
| Local bus day pass | 12 to 15 francs |
Safety and Health in Interlaken Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the safest countries on the planet for travelers of all ages. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the streets are clean and well lit at night. You can walk around Interlaken Switzerland after dark without worrying about your personal safety.
Altitude sickness can affect some visitors who take the train to Jungfraujoch or hike above 8,000 feet. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath that usually pass within a few hours. Drink plenty of water and take it slow if you feel dizzy at higher elevations.
Tap water is safe and delicious throughout Interlaken Switzerland and all of Switzerland. You can refill your water bottle at public fountains found in nearly every village square. This saves money and reduces plastic waste during your trip.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Interlaken Switzerland
Interlaken Switzerland offers a rare combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and easy access from major European cities. The lakes, mountains, and valleys give you a fresh reason to explore every single day of your trip. Whether you want adrenaline or relaxation, this small town delivers both in a big way.
The costs are higher than many other European destinations, but the experience is worth every franc. Clean trains, safe streets, and friendly locals make traveling here smooth and stress free from start to finish. A few days in Interlaken Switzerland will give you memories that last a lifetime.
Start planning your trip today by checking train schedules on the SBB website and comparing hotel prices for your travel dates. Book your Jungfraujoch tickets early to get the best discount, and pack layers for the unpredictable mountain weather. Interlaken Switzerland is waiting for you, and the Alps will not disappoint.