Interlaken, nestled in Switzerland's Bernese Oberland, is a sought-after vacation destination for both international travelers and Swiss residents alike.
Located between the crystal-clear lakes of Thun and Brienz, the city is framed by three iconic mountains—the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
With its variety of hotels and mountain tours, Interlaken serves as a gateway to the stunning Jungfrau region. Our guide to Interlaken Switzerland will help you make the most of your visit to this world-class destination.
Surrounded by majestic mountains, Interlaken offers year-round attractions and activities for all types of travelers.
The completion of the Bernese Oberland Railway in 1890 helped boost the city's popularity, and today, visitors have access to over 45 mountain railways, cable cars, chair lifts, and ski lifts.
Nearby mountain destinations like Jungfraujoch, Mt. Schilthorn, and Schynige Platte promise breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Whether exploring the region by water, mountain, or scenic train route, Interlaken is the perfect starting point for a wealth of excursions and memories in the beautiful Bernese Oberland.
Things to Do in Interlaken
Interlaken is a renowned vacation destination and resort, offering an array of shops selling traditional Swiss goods like watches, chocolates, and souvenirs.
The scenic Höheweb promenade connects Interlaken West with Interlaken East, allowing visitors to stroll along a park with breathtaking views of the Jungfrau mountain range.
Hiking
Interlaken and its surrounding region boast over 500 km (310 mi) of marked hiking trails, making it a hiker’s paradise. The area features an extensive network of routes on Mount Niederhorn, where hikers can spot wildlife such as ibexes, chamois, and marmots. For more detailed maps and hiking route suggestions, visit Interlaken’s local tourist office.
Biking
Biking in and around Interlaken offers some of Switzerland's most scenic routes. The city is bike-friendly, with easy access to cycling paths and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can rent a 7-gear country bike or a 21-gear mountain bike, depending on their preferred trail difficulty and adventure level.
Rafting
Interlaken’s Lütschine River is known for its rapid currents, offering one of the best rafting experiences in Switzerland. Originating from the glaciers of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, this alpine river provides an exciting adventure for thrill-seekers.
City Tours from Interlaken to Other Swiss Cities
Berne
The Swiss capital, Berne, is less than an hour from Interlaken. Its medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, with highlights including shopping under arcades, the famous clock tower, and the new bear park, home to Berne's heraldic animals.
Lucerne
Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most popular destinations, is just under two hours from Interlaken by the scenic Golden Pass train. Nestled between mountains and lakes, Lucerne boasts a beautiful Old Town, the iconic Chapel Bridge, and opportunities for cruises on Lake Lucerne, along with excellent shopping.
Rail Tours from Interlaken
Zermatt
A full-day excursion from Interlaken, Zermatt is a charming mountain village at an elevation of 1,620 m (5,310 ft). Take a scenic train ride from Brig along the sunny side of the Lötschberg Mountain, eventually arriving at the Matterhorn Mountain. For an extended adventure, take a cogwheel railway to the Gornergrat peak at 3,089 m (10,134 ft).
Montreux
Montreux, located on Lake Geneva, is 1.5 hours west of Interlaken by train. This journey crosses the border between the German and French-speaking parts of Switzerland, offering stunning views along Lake Thun, Zweisimmen, and Gstaad before arriving at the shores of Lake Geneva.
INTERLAKEN, SWITZERLAND | 14 Cheap & Free Things to do in Interlaken | Switzerland on a Budget
Video by Aplins in the Alps
