Welcome to Interlaken🇨🇭
Interlaken, a place that feels like a deep breath. From the moment I arrived, everything felt open and expansive, wrapped in mountains and fresh alpine air. It didn’t feel busy or overwhelming, even though it’s one of Switzerland’s most popular destinations. Instead, it felt calm, grounded, and beautifully alive.
The moment that stayed with me most was standing at the top of Harder Kulm. Looking down at Interlaken from above, with Lake Thun and Lake Brienz stretching out on either side, I felt completely mesmerized. The view was unreal, layers of green valleys, distant peaks, and tiny rooftops tucked between the lakes. Paragliders floated effortlessly through the sky, colorful dots drifting in silence, adding movement to an already breathtaking scene.
Despite its popularity, Interlaken felt surprisingly peaceful. The air was crisp and pristine, the kind that makes you slow down without trying. There were people around, but it never felt crowded, just a quiet hum of travelers sharing the same sense of awe. Everything felt balanced: adventure and stillness, energy and calm.
Interlaken doesn’t demand your attention, it invites it. Its beauty unfolds slowly, in moments that make you pause and simply look. Standing there, high above the town, I felt present in a way that’s hard to describe. Interlaken wasn’t just beautiful; it was grounding, humbling, and quietly unforgettable.
Quick Facts to get you around
Currency : Swiss Franc (CHF)
Cards are widely accepted, but keep some cash on hand for small local shops.
Visa : Schengen
You need to get an ETA if you do not need schengen visa
Public transport : SBB (Swiss Federal Railways)
SBB operates Interlaken’s regional and long-distance trains, connecting the town to major Swiss cities, mountain villages, and alpine destinations across the Bernese Oberland.
Language : German (Swiss German)
English is widely used.
“Grüezi” (Hello), “Danke” (Thank you), “Bitte” (Please)
Climate : Alpine / Temperate with Seasonal Shifts
(Dec–Feb): 30–45°F (–1 to 7°C) cold, with occasional snow
(Mar–May): 45–65°F (7–18°C) crisp, fresh, and gradually warming
(Jun–Aug): 65–80°F (18–27°C) warm, sunny, and comfortable
(Sep–Nov): 45–60°F (7–16°C) cool, colorful, and calm
Airport : Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Zurich Airport is the most convenient airport for reaching Interlaken, located about 120 km away. Trains run frequently, with travel time of approximately 2–2.5 hours.
Alternate Airports:
Geneva Airport (GVA): Takes 3 hrs
Basel EuroAirport (BSL): Useful for European and low-cost flights. Takes 2.5–3 hours by train.
Train station : Interlaken Ost & Interlaken West
Interlaken has two main stations: Interlaken Ost, the hub for mountain routes like Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Jungfraujoch, and Interlaken West, which connects to major Swiss cities such as Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, Basel, and Geneva.
Quick Apps:
SBB Mobile, Berner Oberland Pass App, Moovit, Google Maps
🚍 Transportation Details
Interlaken is one of the easiest places in Switzerland to navigate without a car. While smaller than major cities, its public transportation system is incredibly efficient, scenic, and well connected, perfectly designed for travelers heading to lakes, mountain villages, and alpine viewpoints. Transport in the region is operated primarily by SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) and regional railways, with boats and cable cars seamlessly integrated.
🚆 Trains (The Backbone of Interlaken Travel)
Trains are the main way to get around Interlaken and explore nearby destinations.
Interlaken has two main stations: Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost
Interlaken Ost is the primary hub for mountain routes and alpine villages
Trains are punctual, frequent, and extremely scenic
💡 Most major excursions in the region start from Interlaken Ost.
🚞 Regional Trains & Mountain Railways
Interlaken is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland, with direct connections to:
Lauterbrunnen: ~20 minutes 🌸
Grindelwald: ~35 minutes 🏔️
Wengen & Mürren: via mountain railways 🚠
Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe): ~2–2.5 hours ❄️
These routes often involve cogwheel trains and cable cars, making the journey part of the experience.
🚢 Boats on Lake Thun & Lake Brienz
Boat cruises operate on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, offering one of the most scenic ways to explore the region.
Connect Interlaken with lakeside villages and viewpoints
Ideal for relaxed sightseeing, especially in summer 🌊
Covered under certain travel passes or purchasable separately
🚌 Buses
Local buses serve areas not directly connected by train.
Useful for short local routes and nearby villages
Reliable and well-coordinated with train schedules
Limited late-night service compared to big cities
🚠 Funiculars & Cable Cars
Cable cars and funiculars are essential for accessing viewpoints and hiking areas.
Popular connections include:
Harder Kulm Funicular: Interlaken’s best viewpoint 🌄
Firstbahn (Grindelwald First): Adventure & hiking hub
Schilthorn Cable Car: Iconic mountain views
🎟️ Most rides are included or discounted with travel passes.
🚄 Trains to Other Swiss Cities
Interlaken is well connected to major Swiss cities via scenic rail routes.
Direct travel times:
Lucerne: ~2 hours 🚞
Bern: ~1 hour
Zurich: ~2 hours
Geneva: ~3 hours
Basel: ~2 hours
Interlaken makes an ideal base for exploring central Switzerland.
🎟️ Tickets & Travel Passes
Buy tickets via SBB Mobile app, ticket machines, or stations
Many routes use a zone + route-based system
Swiss Travel Pass is highly recommended for Interlaken-based trips
Berner Oberland Pass is excellent for regional travel
💡 Always check what’s included, mountain rides can add up quickly.
🌍 Getting Around & Beyond
Interlaken is perfectly positioned for day trips and alpine adventures. From here, you can easily reach Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Mürren, Jungfraujoch, and lakeside villages, all without driving.
✈️ Flights to Interlaken
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the main international gateway for travelers heading to Interlaken and the Bernese Oberland. It is served by major airlines such as SWISS, Lufthansa, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Delta, United, KLM, and Air France, offering direct flights from major cities across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia. From Zurich Airport, Interlaken is easily reachable by train in about 2–2.5 hours, making ZRH the most convenient arrival point.
Geneva Airport (GVA) is another strong option, especially for travelers combining Interlaken with other Swiss destinations. It offers extensive long-haul and European connections, with direct trains to Interlaken taking approximately 3 hours.
Basel EuroAirport (BSL) can be a good alternative for European and low-cost carriers like easyJet and Ryanair. While smaller and less connected internationally, it’s still accessible by train, with travel time to Interlaken around 2.5–3 hours.
Best Tip: Fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH) for the easiest and most efficient route to Interlaken. Trains run frequently from the airport with smooth connections, making the journey scenic and stress free, no car needed.
Cheapest Months: January, February, and November typically offer the lowest airfare to Switzerland, including routes to Zurich and Geneva. These months also mean fewer crowds and better accommodation deals in Interlaken, especially outside peak summer and ski seasons.
🏔️ Best Things to Do in Interlaken
Interlaken was one of those places that didn’t feel real at first. The kind where you step off the train, look around, and immediately think, there’s no way this is real life. Mountains rising in every direction, turquoise lakes on both sides, and the quiet hum of adventure in the air, Interlaken felt like the heart of Switzerland’s wild side.
I spent my days here moving slowly and quickly at the same time, slow mornings by the lakes, fast moments chasing views, cable cars, and adrenaline. Here’s what made Interlaken unforgettable.
🌿 Walk Through Interlaken & Höhematte Park
My first stop was Höhematte Park, the wide open green space right in the center of town. It’s where paragliders land, mountains frame the skyline, and people sit quietly just soaking it all in.
This is where Interlaken introduces itself, calm, scenic, and dramatic all at once. I grabbed a coffee and just sat there, watching the clouds move across the peaks.
📍 Perfect for: slow mornings, first impressions, and grounding yourself.
🪂 Go Paragliding Over Interlaken (The Ultimate Experience)
Paragliding in Interlaken is exactly as incredible as it looks, maybe even better. Floating silently above Lake Thun, with the mountains below and the town slowly shrinking beneath you, was one of those moments where time completely stopped.
It’s surprisingly peaceful, not scary at all, and easily the most unforgettable thing I did here.
✨ If you do one adventure in Interlaken, make it this.
🚣♀️ Explore Lake Brienz or Lake Thun
Interlaken sits perfectly between two lakes, and each has its own personality.
Lake Brienz 💎 is unreal, bright turquoise, dramatic cliffs, and very serene
Lake Thun 🌊 feels softer and more open, with castles and villages along the shore
I spent a lazy afternoon by the water, hopping between viewpoints, boat docks, and quiet spots to just breathe.
📸 Bring your camera, these colors don’t feel real.
🚡 Ride the Harder Kulm Funicular (Best Viewpoint)
For the best panoramic view of Interlaken, take the Harder Kulm funicular. At the top, the view opens up to both lakes and the snow capped Alps behind them, a full 360° moment.
I went up close to sunset, and it was absolutely worth it. Golden light, quiet awe, and that feeling of this is why I travel.
💡 Go early evening for the best light and fewer crowds.
🚶♀️ Take a Scenic Walk Along the Aare River
One of my favorite, underrated moments was walking along the Aare River. The water is impossibly clear, the path is peaceful, and the mountains feel closer than ever.
This walk felt very “local”, no rush, no crowds, just nature and quiet beauty.
🌿 Sometimes the simplest moments are the best.
🏔️ Use Interlaken as a Gateway to the Alps
Interlaken isn’t just a destination, it’s a launchpad.
From here, day trips to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and even Jungfraujoch are effortless. Trains glide through valleys, cable cars lift you into the clouds, and every journey feels like a movie scene.
🚆 Interlaken makes Switzerland feel accessible.
🍽️ Wind Down With a Cozy Dinner
After full days outdoors, evenings in Interlaken are calm and cozy. I loved ending the day with a warm meal, watching the sky change colors behind the mountains, and replaying the day in my head.
Swiss food is comforting, simple, and exactly what you want after adventure.
🫕 Fondue hits different after a mountain day.
✨ Final Thoughts
Interlaken isn’t loud or flashy, its magic lives in movement. In cable cars rising above valleys, in lakes that look painted, in quiet walks and heart-pounding moments all in the same day.
It’s a place where adventure and stillness coexist, where every view feels earned, and where Switzerland truly shows off.
If you’re planning a trip here, don’t rush it. Let Interlaken surprise you.
🏔️ Interlaken Itinerary: The Perfect 1, 2 & 3 Day Guide for First Time Visitors
Interlaken feels like the heart of Switzerland’s postcard dreams, turquoise lakes, towering mountains, fresh alpine air, and just enough adventure to keep your heart racing. Whether you’re short on time or planning a slow, scenic stay, this itinerary helps you experience Interlaken without rushing, while still covering the absolute highlights.
🗓️ 1 Day in Interlaken: Best Highlights
Perfect if Interlaken is a stop on a larger Switzerland trip.
☀️ Morning: Arrive & Explore the Town
Start your day at Höhematte Park, Interlaken’s wide green space framed by mountain views 🏞️
Watch paragliders land while soaking in your first alpine views — it’s peaceful and surreal.
🚶♀️ Take a gentle walk through the town center toward the Aare River, where the water is impossibly clear.
📸 Best light is in the morning.
🚡 Midday: Harder Kulm Viewpoint
Take the Harder Kulm funicular for Interlaken’s most iconic view 🌄
From the top, you’ll see:
Lake Thun 💙
Lake Brienz 💎
Endless Alpine peaks 🏔️
✨ Paragliders floating through the sky make this view unforgettable.
💡 Tip: Go before 3 PM for fewer crowds.
🍽️ Afternoon: Lunch + Lakeside Time
Enjoy lunch in town or near Interlaken West 🍽️
If time allows, relax by Lake Thun or Lake Brienz even a short walk along the shore feels magical.
🌙 Evening: Golden Hour & Dinner
End your day with a calm stroll through town at sunset 🌅
Enjoy a cozy Swiss dinner, fondue or rösti hits differently after a mountain day 🫕
🗓️ 2 Days in Interlaken: Lakes & Alpine Villages
🌸 Day 2 Morning: Lauterbrunnen Valley
Take a short train ride to Lauterbrunnen (≈20 minutes) 🚞
Walk through the valley, admire waterfalls, and breathe in the quiet beauty.
✨ This is one of Switzerland’s most photogenic places.
🚡 Midday: Wengen or Mürren
From Lauterbrunnen:
Head to Wengen for charming alpine village vibes 🏡
Or Mürren for dramatic cliffside views 🌄
Both are car-free and incredibly peaceful.
🌊 Afternoon: Lake Brienz
Return toward Interlaken and spend the afternoon at Lake Brienz
The color of the water alone makes this stop worth it 💙
🚢 Optional: Short boat ride for scenic views.
🌙 Evening: Relax in Interlaken
After a full day, Interlaken evenings feel calm and quiet, perfect for resting or a slow dinner.
🗓️ 3 Days in Interlaken: Iconic Peaks or Adventure
🏔️ Day 3 Option 1: Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe ❄️
One of Switzerland’s most famous experiences.
🚆 Travel via scenic trains to Europe’s highest railway station
See snow and glaciers year-round, even in summer.
💡 Tip: Expensive but unforgettable, check weather before going.
🪂 Day 3 Option 2: Adventure Day
Interlaken is Switzerland’s adventure capital.
Choose from:
Paragliding 🪂
Kayaking on Lake Brienz 🚣♀️
Canyon swing or skydiving
Scenic hikes with mountain views 🥾
✨ Even one adventure makes this day unforgettable.
🌿 Day 3 Option 3: Slow & Scenic
If you prefer calm travel:
Coffee with mountain views ☕
Scenic river walks
Boat cruise on Lake Thun or Brienz 🚢
Shopping for Swiss souvenirs
🎟️ Helpful Tips for First-Timers
🚆 Trains are punctual, don’t be late
🎫 Consider Swiss Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass
🕰️ Start mountain days early
📱 Use SBB Mobile app for live schedules
🌦️ Weather changes fast, dress in layers
✨ Final Thoughts: Interlaken is where Switzerland feels most alive. Adventure and calm coexist effortlessly, one moment you’re floating above lakes, the next you’re walking quietly through valleys and villages. Give it time, move slowly, and let the mountains do the talking.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Interlaken (Seasons, Weather & Crowds)
Interlaken is beautiful year round, but when you visit completely changes the experience. From lush green summers and adventure sports to snowy winters and quiet alpine charm, each season offers something different. Here’s how to choose the best time based on weather, crowds, and activities.
☀️ Summer in Interlaken (June–August)
Best for: Adventure, hiking, lakes, and iconic views
Summer is Interlaken’s most popular season and for good reason.
🌡️ Weather Temperatures: 65–80°F (18–27°C), Warm days, cool nights, Long daylight hours ☀️
🎯 What to Do:
Harder Kulm viewpoints 🌄, Paragliding 🪂, Hiking in Grindelwald & Lauterbrunnen 🥾, Kayaking on Lake Brienz 🚣♀️, Boat cruises on Lake Thun & Brienz 🚢
👥 Crowds : Peak tourist season, Busy trains, viewpoints, and villages
💡 Tip: Start early in the morning to beat crowds and get the best light.
🌸 Spring in Interlaken (April–May)
Best for: Fewer crowds & fresh scenery
Spring is quieter and more relaxed, with valleys turning green and waterfalls at their strongest.
🌡️ Weather Temperatures: 45–65°F (7–18°C), Cool mornings, mild afternoons, Snow still visible on higher peaks ❄️
🎯 What to Do:
Waterfall walks in Lauterbrunnen 🌊, Scenic train rides 🚞, Old town strolls & lake walks
👥 Crowds: Low to moderate, Peaceful atmosphere
💡 Tip: Some high-altitude hikes may still be closed, check before planning.
🍂 Fall in Interlaken (September–October)
Best for: Golden landscapes & fewer tourists
Fall is one of Interlaken’s most underrated seasons.
🌡️ Weather Temperatures: 45–60°F (7–16°C), Crisp air and clear skies, Stunning autumn colors 🍁
🎯 What to Do:
Scenic hikes with fall foliage 🍂, Harder Kulm and alpine viewpoints 🌄, Photography & peaceful walks 📸
👥 Crowds: Moderate to low, Calm, slower pace
💡 Tip: Cable cars may reduce hours later in the season.
❄️ Winter in Interlaken (December–March)
Best for: Snow lovers & winter charm
Winter turns Interlaken into a quiet alpine town, surrounded by snow covered peaks.
🌡️ Weather Temperatures: 30–45°F (–1 to 7°C), Snow in the mountains, colder evenings
🎯 What to Do:
Snow excursions to Jungfraujoch ❄️, Winter walks & cozy cafés ☕, Ski trips to nearby resorts 🎿
👥 Crowds: Fewer crowds in town, Busier at ski areas
💡 Tip: Some hiking trails and boat services may pause in winter.
🗓️ So… When Is the Best Time to Visit Interlaken?
✨ Best Overall: June & September (great weather + manageable crowds)
🌿 Best for Fewer Crowds: May & October
❄️ Best for Snow: January – February
🪂 Best for Adventure: July – August
✨ Final Thoughts
Interlaken changes wxith the seasons and that’s part of its magic. Whether you’re chasing summer adventure, autumn calm, or winter snow, there’s no wrong time to visit. The best time truly depends on how you want to feel when you’re there.
🪂 Interlaken Adventure Activities (Adrenaline Capital of Switzerland)
Interlaken isn’t just scenic, it’s one of Europe’s top adventure hubs. With mountains, lakes, and wide valleys, this is where thrill meets unreal views. If you’re searching for unforgettable experiences, these are the activities everyone comes to Interlaken for.
🪂 Paragliding (Most Popular)
Floating above Interlaken with Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Alps below is pure magic. It’s peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly not scary, perfect even for first timers.
✈️ Skydiving (Ultimate Thrill)
For full adrenaline, skydiving over the Swiss Alps is unbeatable. Free fall with snow capped peaks and turquoise lakes in every direction.
🪢 Canyon Swing (Heart Stopping)
Jump into a deep alpine canyon with a massive free fall before the swing kicks in. Not for the faint hearted, but incredibly popular online.
🚣♀️ Kayaking (Scenic + Calm)
Kayak across Lake Brienz or Lake Thun for a slower adventure. Crystal-clear water, mountain reflections, and peaceful vibes.
🎟️ Where to Book Interlaken Adventure Activities (+ Discounts)
✅ Best Places to Book (Trusted & Popular)
GetYourGuide
The most popular platform for booking paragliding, canyon swing, kayaking, and skydiving in Interlaken.
✔️ Easy cancellation
✔️ Verified reviews
✔️ Often has small discounts or promo codes
Viator (by TripAdvisor)
Great for comparing operators and seeing detailed reviews.
✔️ Reliable
✔️ Occasionally offers bundle deals
Official Local Operators (On Arrival)
You’ll see many adventure shops around Interlaken.
✔️ Sometimes last-minute availability
❌ Usually more expensive in peak season
💡 Best option for first timers: book online in advance.
💸 How to Get Discounts & Save Money
🎫 Swiss Travel Pass / Berner Oberland Pass
While most adventure sports aren’t fully included, some providers offer small discounts for pass holders always ask before booking.
📅 Book Early (Especially in Summer)
June–August prices go up fast. Booking early helps you:
Lock in availability
Avoid peak day surcharges
Choose ideal time slots (morning light is best 📸)
👥 Bundle or Group Deals
Some operators offer:
Paragliding + photos bundle
Group discounts
Off-peak time slots at lower prices
📱 Promo Codes & Seasonal Sales
GetYourGuide & Viator occasionally run seasonal discounts
Look for deals in May, early June, September, and October
💡 Pro Booking Tips
Always check weather cancellation policy 🌦️
Confirm if photos/videos are included 🎥
Choose morning slots for clearer skies ☀️
Wear layers, it’s colder in the air 🧥
✨ Final Thought:
Interlaken adventures are worth every franc, but booking smart makes a big difference. A little planning can save money, secure the best views, and make the experience completely stress free.
❄️ Jungfraujoch from Interlaken (Top of Europe Guide)
Jungfraujoch, often called the “Top of Europe,” is one of Switzerland’s most iconic and expensive experiences. Sitting at 3,454 meters (11,332 ft), it’s the highest railway station in Europe, offering snow, glaciers, and panoramic Alpine views year round. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it, how to get there, and how much it really costs, here’s the honest breakdown.
🤔 Is Jungfraujoch Worth It?
Short answer: Yes, if it fits your travel style and budget.
Jungfraujoch is not about quiet villages or slow travel. It’s about dramatic scenery, engineering marvels, and once in a lifetime views. Standing above the clouds, surrounded by glaciers, feels surreal, especially if it’s your first time in Switzerland.
✔️ Worth it if:
It’s your first Switzerland trip
You want snow even in summer ❄️
You love panoramic viewpoints & bucket-list experiences
❌ Maybe skip if:
You’re traveling on a tight budget
You prefer peaceful villages like Mürren or Wengen
🚆 How to Get to Jungfraujoch from Interlaken
Starting point: Interlaken Ost
Route options:
Interlaken Ost → Grindelwald → Eiger Express → Jungfraujoch
Interlaken Ost → Lauterbrunnen → Wengen → Kleine Scheidegg → Jungfraujoch
⏱️ Travel time: ~2–2.5 hours one way
🚞 The journey itself is incredibly scenic, trains, cable cars, glaciers, and mountain views the entire way.
💡 Tip: The Grindelwald route is faster and more modern.
❄️ What You’ll See at Jungfraujoch
Aletsch Glacier (largest in the Alps) 🧊
Snow year round ❄️
Ice Palace carved into the glacier
Observation decks with sweeping Alpine views 🌄
💰 Jungfraujoch Cost Breakdown (Important)
This is where most travelers hesitate and understandably so.
Regular ticket: CHF 190–250 (round trip)
Swiss Travel Pass: 25% discount
Berner Oberland Pass: Partial discounts (varies by route)
💡 Prices depend on season, route, and starting point.
💸 How to Save Money on Jungfraujoch
Use a Swiss Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass
Book early during peak summer 📅
Go on a clear weather day, check webcams before booking
Start early to avoid crowds and clouds ☀️
🎟️ Booking Tips
Book tickets online via Jungfrau Railways or trusted platforms
Weather matters more than season 🌦️
Dress warmly, even in summer 🧥
✨ Final Verdict
Jungfraujoch is expensive, yes, but it’s also unforgettable. If your budget allows, it’s one of those experiences that truly shows Switzerland at its most dramatic. The key is planning smart, checking weather, and knowing exactly what you’re paying for.
🏨 Where to Stay in Interlaken (Hotels, Hostels & Best Areas)
Interlaken is small but choosing the right side, West vs Ost can shape your entire trip. Whether you’re traveling on a budget, looking for luxury, or chasing adventure, here’s how to pick the best base.
📍 Interlaken West vs Interlaken Ost
🚆 Interlaken West
Best for: First-timers, train access, cafés & calm evenings
Closer to Lake Thun 🌊
Easy connections to Zurich, Bern, Lucerne
More dining options and walkability
🍽️ Local bites nearby:
Ox Restaurant & Grill, cozy Swiss-European comfort food
Velo Café, great for breakfast & coffee ☕
Bebbis Restaurant, traditional Swiss dishes
🏔️ Interlaken Ost
Best for: Mountain routes & adventure lovers
Main hub for Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch
Close to Höhematte Park & Harder Kulm funicular 🌄
Slightly quieter at night
🍽️ Local bites nearby:
Restaurant Taverne : classic Swiss plates
Laterne Pub : casual food & lively vibes
Hüsi Bierhaus : local beers 🍺
✨ Luxury Hotels in Interlaken
Perfect for comfort, views, and special occasions.
Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa 🌟 Iconic, elegant, and centrally located with spa access
Hotel Interlaken 🏛️ Historic charm with a peaceful courtyard
Grand Hotel Beau Rivage 🌊 Lakeside setting near Interlaken Ost
💡 Tip: Book early in summer, luxury hotels sell out fast.
🌟 Mid-Range Hotels (Best Value)
Ideal balance of comfort, location, and price.
Hotel Du Nord : Great views & central location
Hotel Krebs :Walkable and reliable
Hotel Beausite : Quiet, scenic, and comfortable
💰 Budget Hotels & Hostels
Interlaken is a backpacker favorite : budget options are excellent.
Balmers Hostel 🎒: Social, fun, very popular
Youth Hostel Interlaken : Clean & scenic
Hotel Rössli : Affordable private rooms
💡 Tip: Hostels often offer private rooms at lower prices.
🎟️ Booking Tips
Stay near Interlaken West if you’re arriving by train
Choose Interlaken Ost if you’re doing Jungfraujoch or Grindelwald early
Book 2–3 months ahead for summer travel
Look for hotels with breakfast included 🥐
✨ Final Thought
Interlaken proves you don’t need to splurge to stay well. Whether you wake up near the lakes, the mountains, or the train station, the views and adventures are never far away.
🚞 Best Day Trips from Interlaken
One of Interlaken’s biggest strengths is how effortlessly it connects you to some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking places. With scenic trains, cable cars, and boats, you can explore waterfalls, alpine villages, and turquoise lakes, all as easy day trips.
🌸 Lauterbrunnen (≈20 minutes)
Best for: Waterfalls & fairytale valley vibes
Often called the Valley of 72 Waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen feels unreal. Walk through the valley, visit Staubbach Falls, and take in the quiet beauty.
✨ Don’t miss: Valley walks & waterfall viewpoints
💡 Tip: Early mornings are peaceful and less crowded
🏔️ Grindelwald (≈35 minutes)
Best for: Dramatic mountain scenery & adventure
Surrounded by towering peaks, Grindelwald is a mountain lover’s dream. Even without hiking, the views alone are worth the trip.
✨ Don’t miss: Grindelwald First & scenic village walks
💡 Tip: Perfect base for cable cars and short hikes
🚤 Lake Brienz (≈15 minutes)
Best for: Turquoise water & relaxed moments
Lake Brienz’s color looks almost unreal. Spend time by the shore, take a boat cruise, or kayak for a calm, scenic experience.
✨ Don’t miss: Boat ride or lakeside viewpoints
💡 Tip: Midday light shows the water’s best color
🌊 Lake Thun (≈25 minutes)
Best for: Castles, towns & wide open lake views
Lake Thun feels grand and spacious, with charming towns and historic castles along the shore.
✨ Don’t miss: Spiez or Thun Old Town
💡 Tip: Combine with a boat cruise for variety
🏡 Wengen (≈45 minutes)
Best for: Peaceful alpine village & views
Car-free and perched above the valley, Wengen feels calm and timeless.
✨ Don’t miss: Village strolls & panoramic viewpoints
💡 Tip: Great alternative to busier destinations
🌄 Mürren (≈1 hour)
Best for: Cliffside drama & epic scenery
Mürren sits on a dramatic ledge above Lauterbrunnen, offering some of the most jaw-dropping views in the region.
✨ Don’t miss: Village walks & Schilthorn views
💡 Tip: One of the best spots for sunset
🎟️ Travel Tips for Day Trips
🚆 Trains run frequently and on time
🎫 Swiss Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass can save money
⏰ Start early for popular spots
🌦️ Check weather before heading to higher elevations
