Discover Interlaken – A Complete Visitor’s Guide

Arrival and Getting There

By Air

Zurich Airport (ZRH) as Your Gateway

Most international travelers arrive via Zurich Airport, Switzerland’s busiest and best-connected airport. From Zurich, reaching Interlaken is easy with direct and scenic train connections.

Quick Transfer: Take a direct train from Zurich Airport to Interlaken Ost via Bern. The journey takes about 2 hours and offers spectacular views of the Swiss countryside.

By Train

Interlaken is well-connected to Switzerland’s extensive rail network. Major cities like Zurich, Geneva, Bern, and Lucerne offer frequent connections to Interlaken Ost (the main train station) and Interlaken West.

Scenic Routes: Consider taking the GoldenPass Line from Lucerne to Interlaken for an unforgettable train journey through stunning landscapes.

By Car

Driving to Interlaken is a fantastic option for those wanting flexibility to explore the surrounding regions. The town is easily accessible via the A8 motorway.

Parking Tip: Parking in the town center can be limited. Public parking garages, such as those near Interlaken West or Ost, provide convenient options for visitors.

Getting Around Interlaken

Interlaken has a well-organized public transport system, including buses, ferries, and mountain railways, making it easy to explore both the town and its surroundings.

• Buses: Efficient and frequent bus services connect different parts of Interlaken, as well as nearby villages and hiking trails.
• Boats: Ferry services on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz offer a scenic and leisurely way to explore the region.
• Mountain Railways: The Jungfraubahn and other regional train lines provide access to stunning alpine destinations.

Walking and Cycling

Interlaken is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for exploring on foot. For those who love cycling, bike rentals are widely available, allowing for scenic rides along the lakes or into the mountains.

Where to Stay – Accommodation Options

Interlaken offers a variety of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

• Luxury Hotels: Stay at prestigious hotels like Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa for ultimate comfort and breathtaking views.
• Boutique and Mid-Range Hotels: Cozy accommodations such as Hotel Interlaken and Stella Hotel provide charm and great locations.
• Budget Options: Backpacker hostels and guesthouses, such as Balmers Hostel, offer affordable stays for adventure travelers.

For the best experience, choose accommodations near Interlaken Ost for easy access to train connections and major attractions.

Must-See Attractions and Things to Do

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

• Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: Take the scenic train ride to Europe’s highest railway station for stunning glacier views and year-round snow activities.
• Harder Kulm: The local mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of Interlaken, the lakes, and the surrounding peaks.
• Schynige Platte: A historic cogwheel train leads to this stunning alpine viewpoint, famous for its hiking trails and botanical gardens.
• Lake Thun & Lake Brienz: Enjoy a boat cruise on these crystal-clear lakes or take a leisurely walk along their shores.

Adventure and Sports

Interlaken is a global hotspot for outdoor activities. Some must-try adventures include:

• Paragliding: Experience a thrilling tandem flight over Interlaken with stunning aerial views.
• Skydiving: Jump from a plane over the Swiss Alps for the ultimate adrenaline rush.
• Canyoning: Explore hidden waterfalls and rock formations through an exciting canyoning adventure.
• Hiking: Trails like the Eiger Trail and Panorama Trail offer breathtaking scenery.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

• Hohematte Park: A beautiful green space in the heart of Interlaken, perfect for relaxing and watching paragliders land.
• Unterseen Old Town: A charming historic district with traditional Swiss houses and quaint cafes.
• St. Beatus Caves: Explore mystical limestone caves with underground waterfalls and stunning rock formations.

Arts, Shopping, and Culinary Delights

Shopping

Interlaken is a great place to buy Swiss souvenirs, watches, and traditional crafts.

• Swiss Watches: Visit renowned watch boutiques to find high-quality Swiss timepieces.
• Chocolate Shops: Indulge in locally made Swiss chocolate at Läderach or Schuh.
• Souvenir Markets: Explore shops selling Swiss army knives, handmade crafts, and regional delicacies.

Local Cuisine

Experience authentic Swiss flavors at Interlaken’s best eateries.

• Traditional Swiss Fondue: Enjoy a classic cheese fondue at Restaurant Laterne.
• Rösti: Try this delicious Swiss potato dish, a must-have for food lovers.
• Fresh Alpine Fish: Savor fresh fish from the lakes at Restaurant Goldener Anker.

Entertainment and Nightlife

While Interlaken is more famous for outdoor adventures, there are several great spots for a relaxed evening.

• Casino Kursaal Interlaken: Try your luck at this elegant casino with stunning decor.
• Local Pubs & Bars: Enjoy a drink at The Barrel or Husi Bierhaus, offering craft beers and a lively atmosphere.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Interlaken enjoys a temperate climate with distinct seasons:

• Summer (June to August): Warm and perfect for hiking, paragliding, and lake activities, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F–82°F).
• Autumn (September to November): Cooler and less crowded, with stunning fall foliage.
• Winter (December to February): Snowy landscapes make it ideal for skiing and winter sports.
• Spring (March to May): Blooming flowers and mild temperatures make it a great time to visit before peak tourist season.

For the best experience, visit during summer for outdoor activities or winter for a magical snowy escape.

Additional Tips for Visitors

• Plan Ahead: Book mountain excursions and adventure activities in advance, especially in peak season.
• Local Etiquette: Swiss culture values punctuality and politeness. A simple “Grüëzi” (hello) goes a long way.
• Currency: The Swiss Franc (CHF) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for smaller shops.
• Explore Beyond Interlaken: Consider visiting nearby Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Mürren for even more alpine beauty.

In Summary

Interlaken is the ultimate Swiss destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience breathtaking alpine scenery. Whether you’re exploring the lakes, hiking through the mountains, or enjoying traditional Swiss cuisine, Interlaken offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Switzerland.

Embrace the beauty of the Bernese Alps, soak in the charm of the town, and create memories that will last a lifetime in Interlaken!

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. If you book through them, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my work!