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Interlaken
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🇨🇭 Switzerland

Interlaken

Adventure Capital of Switzerland — Nestled between two stunning turquoise lakes and cradled by the majestic Swiss Alps, Interlaken is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its dramatic scenery and central location make it the perfect base for exploring the Jungfrau region and beyond.

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  • 📍Top places to visit: Harder Kulm, Höhematte, Aare River
  • 🍽️What to eat: Rösti, Fondue, Raclette
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, while…

Good to know

Best time to visit
Summer (June-August) offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, while winter (December-March) provides a snowy wonderland for skiing and snowboarding. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.
Getting around
Interlaken is easily navigable on foot, with most attractions and accommodations concentrated in the town center. Local buses and trains are efficient for reaching surrounding areas.
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for smaller purchases or remote areas.
Language
German is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
Safety
Interlaken is a very safe city with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions are sufficient.
Daily budget
Budget: $150-200, Midrange: $200-350 per day
💶 Travel money in InterlakenCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Interlaken
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Top places to visit

1Viewpoint

Harder Kulm

Take a funicular up to this iconic viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

2Park

Höhematte

This large central park is the heart of Interlaken, offering open green spaces, stunning mountain vistas, and a popular spot for paragliders to land.

3Activity

Aare River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Aare River, or for the brave, take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear, albeit cold, waters during summer.

4Museum

Tourism Museum

Discover the rich history of tourism in the Jungfrau region and learn about the development of mountaineering and adventure sports.

5Landmark

St. Beatus Caves

Explore fascinating underground caves with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, located on the shores of Lake Thun.

6Activity

Lake Thun

Take a scenic boat trip on Lake Thun, visit charming lakeside villages, or enjoy watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

7Activity

Lake Brienz

Experience the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Brienz with a boat tour or by visiting picturesque villages like Iseltwald.

8Activity

Jungfraubahnen

This is the railway network that takes you to the 'Top of Europe', offering incredible journeys through the mountains.

9Activity

Paragliding

Experience the thrill of flying over Interlaken and its stunning landscape with a tandem paragliding flight.

10Activity

Canyoning

For adrenaline junkies, try canyoning in the surrounding gorges, involving rappelling, jumping, and sliding down waterfalls.

11Restaurant

The Taquería

Enjoy delicious and authentic Mexican tacos in a vibrant and casual setting.

12Restaurant

Husi Bierhaus

A popular spot for traditional Swiss cuisine and a wide selection of beers in a cozy atmosphere.

13Shopping

Chocolat Frey

Indulge in the finest Swiss chocolates and souvenirs at this renowned chocolate shop.

14Market

Coop

A large supermarket chain offering a wide variety of local produce, snacks, and essentials for picnics.

15Café

Alpenrose

Sip on coffee and enjoy Swiss pastries while soaking in the charming alpine atmosphere.

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Things to do

Take the funicular to Harder Kulm

Ascend for unparalleled panoramic views of the lakes and mountains.

Go paragliding over Interlaken

Experience the ultimate thrill with breathtaking aerial views.

Cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz

Enjoy the serene beauty and charming villages from the water.

Explore the St. Beatus Caves

Discover fascinating natural formations within the mountainside.

Hike in the Jungfrau region

Embark on scenic trails for all fitness levels amidst stunning alpine scenery.

Visit the Tourism Museum

Learn about the history of adventure and mountaineering in the region.

Where to stay

Central Interlaken

Ideal for first-time visitors, offering easy access to attractions, restaurants, and transport links.

Unterseen

A charming, historic district with traditional Swiss architecture, offering a quieter, more authentic experience.

Matten

Suits budget travelers and adventure seekers, located slightly outside the main center but close to activity providers.

Along the Aare River

Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking scenic views, with many hotels offering river or mountain panoramas.

What to eat

Rösti

A classic Swiss dish made from grated potatoes, fried until golden brown and crispy.

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a communal pot, perfect for dipping bread and other accompaniments.

Raclette

Melted cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles, and onions, a hearty and delicious meal.

Swiss Chocolate

Indulge in the world-renowned smooth and rich Swiss chocolate, available in countless varieties.

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, often served with rösti.

Meringues with cream

A light and airy dessert made from whipped egg whites and sugar, often served with fresh cream.

Day trips

Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe

Take a scenic train journey to the highest railway station in Europe for glacier views and snow activities (approx. 2-3 hours one way).

Grindelwald

A picturesque alpine village offering hiking, adventure sports, and stunning views of the Eiger North Face (approx. 30-40 minutes by train).

Lauterbrunnen

Visit this valley of 72 waterfalls, including the impressive Staubbach Falls, and explore charming mountain hamlets (approx. 20-30 minutes by train).

Insider tips

  • Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited public transport and museum access.
  • Book popular activities and train tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Pack layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
  • Enjoy picnics with local produce from Coop or Migros supermarkets.
  • Take advantage of the numerous free hiking trails in the surrounding Alps.
  • Learn a few basic German phrases, though English is widely understood.

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
A
Anna K.
Germany
★★★★★
last summer

Interlaken was a dream! We took the train up to Jungfraujoch and the views were absolutely breathtaking. The air was so crisp and clean. Loved exploring the charming town afterwards and grabbing some Swiss chocolate.

D
David C.
United States
★★★★☆
in February

We visited Interlaken for some winter sports. The skiing nearby was fantastic, and the snow was perfect. It was a bit crowded in town, but the scenery more than made up for it. Definitely a great base for adventure.

I
Isabelle M.
France
★★★★★
a few weeks ago

C'était magnifique! The lakes, Thun and Brienz, are stunningly beautiful. We enjoyed a leisurely boat trip on Lake Thun and admired the castles. Interlaken is the perfect starting point for exploring the Bernese Oberland.

K
Kenji S.
Japan
★★★★★
last autumn

Interlaken provided an unforgettable experience. The paragliding over the valley was exhilarating, offering unparalleled views of the Alps. The local cheese fondue was also a delicious highlight after a day of hiking.

M
Maria G.
Brazil
★★★★★
in July

Absolutely loved Interlaken! We hiked to Harder Kulm for sunset, and the panorama was incredible. The town itself is so picturesque, and the sheer natural beauty surrounding it is awe-inspiring. A truly special place.

Good to know — FAQ

What is Interlaken famous for?
Interlaken is renowned as the adventure capital of Switzerland. It's famous for its stunning natural beauty, situated between two turquoise lakes and surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, making it a hub for outdoor activities like paragliding, hiking, and canyoning.
How do I get to Interlaken?
Interlaken is well-connected by train. The main train station, Interlaken Ost, receives direct trains from major Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Bern. It's also accessible by car, though parking can be limited in the town center.
Is Interlaken expensive?
Switzerland, in general, is known for being a relatively expensive destination. Interlaken is no exception, especially for accommodation and dining. However, you can manage costs by utilizing public transport passes, enjoying picnics, and choosing budget-friendly activities.
What are the must-do activities in Interlaken?
Must-do activities include taking the funicular to Harder Kulm for panoramic views, experiencing the thrill of paragliding, taking a scenic boat cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, and visiting the 'Top of Europe' at Jungfraujoch for an unforgettable alpine experience.

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