Although Interlaken, Switzerland is the main transportation hub and gateway to the Jungfrau Region, I opted to stay in Grindelwald as it was a quieter, more picturesque base for exploring the area. Grindelwald is surrounded by stunning mountain views and charming Swiss village vibes and offers the perfect balance of nature, adventure, and relaxation. But that doesn’t mean I skipped out on experiencing Interlaken’s top attractions with a day trip! There’s so much to see and do as it’s much larger than Grindelwald, and in this post, I’ll share why Interlaken needs to be visited, even if you’re staying elsewhere.
Interlaken is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and offering visitors adrenaline-pumping experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. It is also the economic and cultural center of the Jungfrau Region and is located at the entrance to the most important attractions in this area of Switzerland. From adventure sports to scenic boat rides and panoramic mountain viewpoints, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Interlaken and making the most of your time there.
When To Visit Interlaken, Switzerland
The best time to visit Interlaken depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for:
Summer (June – August) is the most popular time to visit and perfect for outdoor adventures. You should expect warm temperatures (18-30°C), long daylight hours and peak tourist crowds.
Fall (September – November) is a great time for fewer crowds and beautiful autumn colors. Hiking trails are still open and prices for accommodations start to drop. By late October, higher-altitude areas may see the first snowfall and some mountain lifts begin to close for the season. I visited in early September and the weather was still warm – perfect for dresses, t-shirts, and shorts, while also comfortable enough for long pants if you’d prefer.
Winter (December – February) is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports in nearby resorts like Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. The town itself is quieter but still offers Christmas markets and scenic winter landscapes.
Spring (March – May) is a mix of seasons – the lowest altitudes being to thaw, flowers bloom, and waterfalls are at their fullest. However, higher mountain trails may still be snow-covered and some attractions remain closed until late spring.
How To Get To Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken has excellent national and international connections, making it an easy destination to reach by train. Trains arrive every half hour from major Swiss cities like Bern (50 minutes), Zurich (2 hours), Geneva (3 hours), and Basel (2 hours), providing seamless public transport links to Swiss airports. Additionally, Interlaken is well-connected to other European cities such as Paris, Berlin, Vienna, and Milan via high-speed and regional train networks.
If you’re staying in Grindelwald like me, getting to Interlaken is simple – it’s just a 30-minute scenic train ride with frequent departures throughout the day. The train route also passes through Lauterbrunnen and offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys along the way.
You can check the SBB Online Portal to find the specific time and date you’d want to visit and plan your trip accordingly. I also have detailed information on how you can choose the best transportation pass for you in A Complete Guide To Exploring Geneva And Tips For Visiting Switzerland blog post.
For those arriving by car, Interlaken is easily accessible via Switzerland’s well-maintained highway system. However, parking can be limited in the town center and some areas require paid parking or have time restrictions, so using public transportation is often the more convenient option.
Once you’ve arrived in Interlaken, Switzerland, getting around is very easy. The town is compact and walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a short distance. For longer distance or trips to nearby villages, you can take advantage of buses, boats, and trains, all of which are very well-connected and run frequently.
Where To Stay In Interlaken, Switzerland
If you decide to stay overnight or use Interlaken as your home base when visiting the Jungfrau region, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and travel styles. From luxury hotels with panoramic mountain views to cozy boutique stays, and budget-friendly hostels, there’s something for everyone.
Many visitors choose to stay in Interlaken Ost, which is close to the main train station and offers easy access to transportation for day trips. Interlaken West is another popular option with plenty of restaurants, shops, and beautiful lake views.
If you’re looking for a quieter or more scenic alternative, consider nearby villages like Unterseen (5 to 10-minute walk), which has a more local feel or Wilderswil (5 minutes by train or 10 minutes by car), which provides quick access to both Interlaken and mountains while offering a more peaceful atmosphere.
Tips For Visiting Interlaken, Switzerland
- Adventure Activities Get Booked Fast – Interlaken is the adventure capital of Switzerland, with activities like paragliding, canyoning, skydiving, and bungee jumping. If you’re planning to do any of these, it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season in the summer.
- The Best Views Aren’t In Town – While Interlaken itself is scenic, the most stunning views are from nearby mountain viewpoints like Harder Kulm, Schynige Platte, and Niederhorn. Consider taking a funicular, cable car, or hiking up for breathtaking panoramic views.
- Weather Can Change Quickly – like most of Switzerland, Interlaken’s weather can be unpredictable. Even in summer, you might need layers, a rain jacket, and sunscreen on the same day. Always check the forecast before heading into the mountains or check the live webcams to make sure you’re properly prepared.
Top Things To Do Interlaken, Switzerland
Ruggenbräu Brewery
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This small, family-run brewery offers craft beer tastings and specializes in small-batch handcrafted Swiss beer, brewed using pure Alpine water from the region. With a focus on quality over quantity, these flavorful brews use natural ingredients and traditional Swiss brewing techniques. This stop is perfect for beer enthusiasts and is a hidden gem just outside of the central Interlaken area.
Interlaken Monastery And Castle
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – One of Interlaken’s most historic landmarks, the former Augustinian monastery and Interlaken castle dates back to t1133 and offers a glimpse into the town’s medieval past. The 14th-century steeple of the former abbey church also towers over the complex with its striking architecture. After the Reformation in 1525, the monastery was turned into a hospital and later became the administrative seat of the Interlaken-Oberhasli district.
Japanese Garden Interlaken
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit –This Japanese-inspired garden symbolizes the sister-city bond between Interlaken and Otsu, Japan. It is designed in the traditional Japanese style and is a peaceful escape and offers a serene atmosphere, beautiful floral displays, and tranquil lake views. You can find a koi pond, bonsai trees, stone lanterns, and a wooden bridge which creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Höhematte Park
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This park offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is perfect for a relaxing stroll. It’s also an ideal spot for a picnic or just to unwind while enjoying the serene surroundings. The flowers are beautiful from spring to summer and this area makes for really great people watching and the activity in the sky as you can see the many paragliders in the sky, landing right in the park as well.
Interlaken’s Main Street (Höheweg)
Time Spent – 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – If you want to experience the local culture and pick up some souvenirs, stroll down Interlaken’s main street where you can find boutiques, cafés, and Swiss chocolate shops that offer a mix of relaxation and shopping with beautiful views of the mountains nearby.
Top Of Europe Flagship Store
Time Spent – 30 minutes to 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This is Switzerland’s most exclusive souvenir shop, offering a variety of Swiss gifts like chocolates, watches, pocket knives, and other unique keepsakes with over 5,000 items to choose from. It’s your one-stop shop for authentic Swiss mementos and you can even find exclusive items that aren’t available anywhere else!
Aare River Walk
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
How To Get There – Accessible from the town center, just follow the riverwalk starting from Interlaken Ost or West
Why You Should Visit – This walk offers beautiful views of the turquoise river and surrounding Alps and provides a peaceful experience outside of the hustle and bustle of the town. It’s the perfect way to soak in Interlaken’s natural beauty and along the way, you’ll pass lush greenery, and unique bridges, and can even spot paragliders soaring above. For a long stroll, you can follow the path towards Lake Thun or Lake Brienz.
Funky Chocolate Club
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – For chocolate enthusiasts, this chocolate and pastry shop offers a fun, interactive experience where you can craft your own chocolate creations while learning about the Swiss art of chocolate-making. In addition to their delicious handmade chocolates, you can enjoy a variety of sweet treats paired with drinks like hot chocolate, coffee, or even wine, cider, and craft beer (they have 7 craft beers on tap and over 50 beers and ciders in their fridge). It’s the perfect spot to take a break from exploring Interlaken, with savory snacks like fries, onion rings, chicken wings, and nachos to complement your chocolate experience if you want something a little more filling.
Adventure Tourism – Paragliding
As Switzerland’s adventure capital, Interlaken offers some of the most thrilling outdoor experiences, from paragliding over stunning landscapes to canyoning through rivers and waterfalls.
Many paragliding and canyoning companies provide pick-up services from Interlaken Ost train station and you can get your adventure started right from the start!
Simply book your excursion at one of these Get Your Guide Paragliding Tours.
For a full list of adventures you can embark on in Interlaken, check out my Instagram reel.
Lake Thun Boat Cruise To St. Beatus Caves
Time Spent – 3 hours
How To Get There – From Interlaken West, take a boat cruise on Lake Thun (which takes about 30 to 45 minutes) and get off at the Beatushöhlen-Sundlauenen stop. From there, you will walk from the dock uphill towards the main street. Then you can walk 20 minutes to the caves or take the STI Bus Line 21 and get off after 2 stops.
Why You Should Visit – This boat cruise offers breathtaking panoramic lake views of Lake Thun’s turquoise waters, framed by the Swiss Alps and lakeside villages. You will find gentle hills and even vineyards along the way. You can choose from general boarding or First Class, where you can get access to the top balconies and better views. You can also order food and drinks as it may be a longer ride depending on where you plan to get off. It’s a relaxing way to experience the natural beauty of the region before heading to one of Switzerland’s most legendary cave systems. St. Beatus Caves is a mystical network of limestone caves, shaped over millions of years by the flowing waters of the Aare River. According to legend, Saint Beatus, a 6th-century monk, drove a fire-breathing dragon out of the cave, allowing early settlers to live there safely. This story has made the caves a popular pilgrimage site. Inside, you’ll explore over 1 kilometer of tunnels, featuring dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, underground waterfalls, and different rock formations. The visitor center and museum also offer insights into the geological history of the caves, while the outdoor terrace café provides stunning lake views. For a full tour of my St. Beatus experience, watch this Instagram reel.
Beatus Wellness & Spa Hotel
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
How To Get There – The Beatus Hotel Spa is a luxurious lakeside retreat with world-class wellness treatments. Set against the backdrop of Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps, this 5-star spa provides everything you need to unwind, including thermal saltwater pools, panoramic saunas, steam baths, and a relaxation lounge with breathtaking views. You can indulge in a soothing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or one of their signature wellness treatments, all designed to restore your body and mind. The outdoor infinity pool also stays heated year-round and lets you soak in warm waters while admiring the stunning alpine scenery.
Oberhofen Castle
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
How To Get There – Instead of getting off at St. Beatus caves, you will continue to take the boat cruise until you reach the Oberhofen stop. From there, it’s just a short walk to the castle entrance.
Why You Should Visit – Nestled on the shores of Lake Thun, Oberhofen Castle is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque medieval castles, featuring a stunning lakeside tower that seems to float over the water. Originally built in the 13th century, the castle has passed through the hands of powerful noble families over the centuries, each leaving their mark on its architecture and interiors. Today, the castle is a living museum, showcasing centuries of Swiss history through its well-preserved rooms, grand halls, and intricate frescoes. The castle also houses an armory, a chapel, the unique Ottoman Smoking Room that was designed by its former Prussian owners, and even an exquisite lakefront garden.
Lake Brienz Boat Cruise
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
How To Get There – From Interlaken Ost, board a scenic boat cruise on the striking waters of Lake Brienz. The boat stops at charming villages like Iseltwald and Geissbach, allowing you to explore new places along the way.
Why You Should Visit – You may be wondering if it’s worth taking 2 boat cruises during your time in Interlaken and the answer is, if you have time, absolutely! Lake Brienz is smaller, quieter, and more dramatic, with steeper mountains. Lake Brienz is one of the most breathtaking lakes in Switzerland, known for its vibrant turquoise color, which comes from glacial meltwater rich in minerals. This lake is also surrounded by majestic mountains, and its turquoise waters are perfect for boating, kayaking, or a peaceful lakeside stroll. You can choose to hop off at Iseltwald, a fairytale-like village famous for its lakeside setting and historic Seeburg Castle. Another highlight is the Giessbach Falls, a spectacular multi-tiered waterfall that cascades 500 meters down into the lake.
Must-Visit Nearby Trips To Take In Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken is a stunning base for exploring the best natural wonders of Switzerland and if you’re looking to venture beyond the town, there are plenty of breathtaking day trips to choose from. Whether you want to hike through dramatic gorges, visit hidden alpine gems, or take in unforgettable landscapes, these nearby destinations offer awe-inspiring scenery and unique experiences just a short ride away.
Aare Gorge
Time Spent – 45 minutes to 1 hour
How To Get There –Take a train from Interlaken Ost to Meiringen, which takes about 40 minutes. From there, you can take a bus to the Aareschlucht West entrance. You can also enter from the Aareschlucht East entrance, which has a train stop nearby.
Why You Should Visit – This 1,400 meter long, 200 meter deep gorge is carved by the Aare River over thousands of years, is one of Switzerland’s most impressive natural wonders. As you make your way through the gorge on footbridges and tunnels, you’ll be surrounded by massive limestone cliffs with the Aare River rushing below. It’s an easy, relaxed walk for most people, but some walls get as tight as 1 to 2 meters apart.
Harder Kulm
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
How To Get There –Take bus line 103 from Interlaken to the Harderbahn funicular station, which has been running since 1908. From there, hop on the funicular for a quick 10-minute ride to the summit. Fun Fact: this historic railway is one of the steepest in Switzerland!
Why You Should Visit – Known as the “Top of Interlaken”, this viewpoint offers unparalleled views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the surrounding Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks in the distance. It is especially beautiful at sunset and offers hiking trails leading back down to Interlaken if you’d rather walk than ride the funicular. The highlight is the famous Two Lakes Bridge, a glass-bottom platform that stands out over the cliff. There’s also a cozy mountaintop restaurant designed like a fairytale castle where you can grab a coffee, traditional Swiss dishes, or even a glass of wine with a view.
Schynige Platte
Time Spent – 3 to 4 hours
How To Get There – Take a 10-minute bus ride from Interlaken to Wilderswil, where you’ll board the cogwheel train for a scenic 50-minute journey to the summit. This train, operating since 1892, offers one of Switzerland’s most scenic train rides.
Why You Should Visit – Known for its scenic beauty, sitting at 1,967 meters above sea level, Schynige Platte offers amazing views, alpine meadows, and a famous botanical garden with around 800 alpine flowers. It’s one of the most picturesque train rides in Switzerland, making it a must-do for nature lovers. The top also features a variety of hiking trails that cater to different levels, with routes leading to scenic overlooks, alpine meadows, and glacial streams. What makes it extra special is that they also have daily alphorn concerts!
Looking to discover even more of this beautiful country, dive into my other Switzerland blog posts for insider tips, must-see spots, hidden gems, and everything you need to make your trip unforgettable!