Interlaken is located between the crystal-clear waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, making it one of Switzerland’s most beautiful destinations. Framed by the towering peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, Interlaken offers something for every traveler. There are so many fun things to do in this region, from gentle hikes and boat tours to adrenaline-pumping activities like paragliding!
For those eager to delve into the breathtaking Swiss Alps, soak up the vibrant local culture, or unwind beside serene lakes, Interlaken is the ideal gateway to the captivating Bernese Oberland region.
We hope this guide offers you plenty of inspiration for your travels. If you’d like to enjoy a guided tour experience while in Switzerland, be sure to consider booking a place on one of our Switzerland Day Tours from Lucerne.
A visit to Harder Kulm is a must. This viewpoint is accessible by a funicular and offers breathtaking views of the town, lakes, and surrounding Alps. At the top, you’ll find a panoramic restaurant and observation platform for unbeatable photo opportunities.
The lakes themselves are major attractions. Lake Thun and Lake Brienz offer boat cruises that showcase the surrounding alpine beauty. Lake Brienz, known for its turquoise waters, is perfect for a peaceful, scenic experience. On Lake Thun, you can visit medieval castles along the shore, blending history with the natural beauty of the region.
Interlaken also offers numerous parks, such as Höhematte, a large open space perfect for relaxing, with views of the paragliders landing nearby. With its combination of natural beauty and cultural sites, Interlaken offers an excellent starting point for exploring the Bernese Oberland.
Our Swiss Alps Private Tour, Lucerne, Interlaken, and Lauterbrunnen, will give you a real taste of the magic of this area.
Interlaken is known as the adventure capital of Switzerland, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails around Harder Kulm are a great option for light hiking, offering easy paths with rewarding views of the town and lakes.
Another popular spot is the Schynige Platte, where a gentle alpine hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and wildflower meadows during the summer.
For those looking for more excitement, Interlaken is famous for its adventure sports. Paragliding is one of the most popular activities, where you can soar over the lakes and valleys with an experienced guide. If you’re interested in water sports, kayaking on Lake Brienz provides a peaceful yet exhilarating way to explore the lake’s clear waters and surrounding scenery.
In winter, nearby ski resorts like Grindelwald and Wengen offer skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The town’s proximity to these resorts makes it easy for travelers to enjoy alpine sports while staying in Interlaken.
Interlaken’s central location makes it an excellent base for day trips to some of Switzerland’s most iconic destinations. A trip to Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe, is a highlight. Take the train to the highest railway station in Europe and experience panoramic views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and the Aletsch Glacier. Another must-visit destination is Lauterbrunnen, a picturesque valley famous for its 72 waterfalls, including the towering Staubbach Falls.
For travelers seeking alpine views, Grindelwald offers easy access to beginner-friendly hikes and cable cars that take you to the Bernese Alps’s heart. Each of these day trips offers stunning scenery and is easily accessible by train from Interlaken, making it a perfect hub for exploration.
Many of these destinations are covered by our selection of Switzerland Day Tours.
Interlaken offers a glimpse into traditional Swiss alpine culture. The town regularly hosts folk festivals featuring Swiss music, yodeling, and traditional alpine dances. During autumn, visitors can witness the cherished tradition of alpine cattle descents, as farmers bring their cattle down from the mountains adorned with flowers and bells. In addition to these cultural events, visitors can also participate in Swiss crafts such as wood carving and watchmaking through workshops or by exploring local artisan markets. Throughout the town, traditional Swiss architecture is on display in the form of chalets and wooden houses, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the region’s heritage while taking in the stunning beauty of the surrounding Alps.
When you visit Interlaken, it’s important to pack appropriately for the season. Even in summer, temperatures in the mountains can drop, so it’s a good idea to bring layers and sturdy walking shoes. If you plan to explore the nearby mountains, you can use the Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited train and bus rides, as public transportation is very efficient.
Interlaken is a multilingual town, with most people speaking German, although English is widely understood. The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), and credit cards are commonly accepted. Lastly, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Swiss customs, such as keeping noise levels down in public and respecting nature by sticking to marked paths.
Interlaken is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, offering countless opportunities to connect with nature. For peaceful experiences, you can explore the tranquil lakesides of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Here, you can enjoy serene walks or rent a boat for a relaxing day on the water. Nature enthusiasts should make a trip to the Giessbach Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls near Lake Brienz, which can be accessed by a short boat ride. To enjoy panoramic views of the region, visit Schynige Platte, renowned for its beautiful alpine gardens and easy hiking trails.
This brings an end to our guide to the Interlaken region. If you have preferred destinations or travel experiences not covered by our Day Tours from Lucerne, you may wish to consider one of our Multi-Day Tours of Switzerland or even a Custom Switzerland Trip tailored just for you.