Interlaken -- Adventure Capital of the Bernese Oberland

TL;DR: Interlaken is Switzerland's adventure sports hub, dramatically set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz at the foot of the Jungfrau massif. It is the gateway to the Jungfraujoch (3,454 m, the highest railway station in Europe), world-class paragliding, and some of the most iconic Alpine scenery on Earth. Reach it from Zurich in 1 hour 55 minutes or from Bern in just 50 minutes by direct train.

Quick Facts

Top 5 Things to Do in Interlaken

1. Ride to the Jungfraujoch -- Top of Europe

The Jungfraujoch railway station at 3,454 m is the highest in Europe and one of Switzerland's most iconic experiences. The journey from Interlaken Ost takes approximately 2 hours each way, passing through Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen and climbing via the Eiger and Monch tunnels. At the summit, explore the Sphinx observation terrace, the Ice Palace carved into the Aletsch Glacier, and the Alpine Sensation exhibition. Round trip from Interlaken costs approximately CHF 240 (2026 prices); Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a 25% discount. Book early-morning departures (the "Good Morning Ticket" before 08:00 saves approximately CHF 30) and check the webcam at jungfrau.ch for clear conditions before going. Allow 5-7 hours for the full excursion.

2. Take the funicular to Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm (1,322 m) is Interlaken's local mountain and offers the most photographed viewpoint in the Bernese Oberland. The panoramic platform extends over a cliff edge, framing the Eiger (3,967 m), Monch (4,107 m), and Jungfrau (4,158 m) with Lake Thun and Lake Brienz on either side. The funicular departs from a station just across the Aare River from Interlaken Ost and takes 10 minutes. Round trip: CHF 38 (25% discount with Swiss Travel Pass). Operates mid-April to late November. Allow 2-3 hours including time at the summit restaurant.

3. Go paragliding over the lakes

Interlaken is one of Europe's premier tandem paragliding destinations. Flights launch from Beatenberg or Amisbuel above the town and glide over the lakes and town center before landing on the Hohematte, the large green park in the middle of Interlaken. No experience needed -- you fly in tandem with a licensed pilot. Flights last 15-20 minutes and cost CHF 180-220 depending on the operator (2026 prices). Multiple operators run flights daily from March to November, weather permitting. Book at least one day in advance in peak season. Minimum age is typically 5 years.

4. Hike to Schynige Platte and the Alpine Garden

The Schynige Platte railway (1,967 m) is one of the Bernese Oberland's hidden treasures. A charming 50-minute cog railway ride from Wilderswil (one stop from Interlaken Ost) climbs through alpine meadows to a panoramic summit with 360-degree views of the Jungfrau massif, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz. The Alpine Garden at the summit displays over 700 species of Swiss alpine plants. The Panoramaweg (Panorama Trail) is a gentle 45-minute loop walk suitable for all fitness levels. Round trip: CHF 68 (25% discount with Swiss Travel Pass). Operates early June to late October. Allow 4-5 hours.

5. Cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz

Interlaken sits between two stunning lakes. Lake Thun (to the west) is larger and features castle-lined shores including the iconic Spiez Castle and Oberhofen Castle. Lake Brienz (to the east) is known for its turquoise water color and the Giessbach Falls, a 500-meter waterfall accessible by the oldest funicular in Europe (built 1879, free with lake boat ticket). BLS boat cruises are free with the Swiss Travel Pass. A full Lake Thun circuit takes approximately 4 hours; Lake Brienz approximately 2.5 hours. Boats depart from Interlaken West (Lake Thun) and Interlaken Ost (Lake Brienz).

History & Culture

Interlaken's name literally means "between the lakes" -- a reference to its location on the narrow strip of land between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, where the Aare River connects the two bodies of water. The town grew around an Augustinian monastery founded in 1133, and the Unterseen district (now part of Interlaken) received its town charter in 1279.

Tourism arrived in the early 19th century when Romantic-era writers and artists -- including Lord Byron, Felix Mendelssohn, and J.M.W. Turner -- began visiting the Bernese Oberland for its dramatic scenery. The first grand hotels opened in the 1830s and 1840s, and the railway reached Interlaken in 1872, connecting it to Bern and the Swiss rail network. The Jungfrau Railway, an extraordinary feat of engineering, opened in 1912 after 16 years of construction.

Today, Interlaken is one of Switzerland's most internationally diverse destinations, drawing visitors from across Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas alongside European tourists. The town has reinvented itself as the country's adventure sports capital, offering paragliding, canyoning, skydiving, bungee jumping, and white-water rafting alongside its traditional mountain excursions. Despite its small permanent population of approximately 5'800, Interlaken welcomes over 2.5 million overnight guests per year (source: Interlaken Tourism / Swiss Federal Statistical Office).

Top Attractions

Jungfraujoch -- Top of Europe

The highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 m is Switzerland's single most-visited paid attraction. The Jungfrau Railway (Jungfraubahn) runs through a 7-kilometer tunnel bored through the Eiger and Monch mountains, with two intermediate stops at Eigerwand and Eismeer offering windows carved into the rock face with glacier views.

At the summit:

• Sphinx Observation Terrace (3,571 m): 360-degree views of the Aletsch Glacier (23 km long, the longest in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Bernese and Valais Alps, and on clear days, the Black Forest and the Vosges mountains
• Ice Palace: Galleries carved 20 meters into the glacier ice, with ice sculptures illuminated in blue light
• Alpine Sensation: Multimedia exhibition on the history of the Jungfrau Railway and Alpine tourism
• Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven: Chocolate shop and exhibition at 3,454 m
• Snow Fun Park: Year-round snow activities including sledging and zip-lining (Summer only)

Practical information:

• Round trip from Interlaken Ost: ~CHF 240 (2026 prices)
• Swiss Travel Pass discount: 25% off
• Good Morning Ticket (first departures before 08:00): ~CHF 210
• Travel time: ~2h each way (Interlaken Ost -- Grindelwald Terminal / Lauterbrunnen -- Kleine Scheidegg -- Jungfraujoch)
• Eiger Express gondola: The new V-Cableway from Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher reduces travel time by approximately 45 minutes compared to the classic route via Kleine Scheidegg
• GPS: 46.5474, 7.9856
• Best time: Clear mornings; check the live webcam at jungfrau.ch before booking. Afternoon clouds are common in Summer
• What to bring: Sunglasses, sunscreen, warm layer (temperatures at the top range from -15 to 0 C year-round), water

Harder Kulm

Interlaken's "home mountain" rises directly above town and offers a panoramic viewpoint that is hard to match anywhere in Switzerland. The Two Lakes Bridge (Zwei-Seen-Steg) viewing platform extends dramatically over the cliff edge, providing an unobstructed view of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau with both lakes flanking Interlaken below.

• Elevation: 1,322 m
• Funicular: 10-minute ride from the valley station near Interlaken Ost
• Round trip: CHF 38 (25% discount with Swiss Travel Pass)
• Operating: Mid-April to late November
• Summit restaurant: Panorama-Restaurant Harder Kulm with terrace dining
• GPS (summit): 46.6960, 7.8573
• Hiking option: Walk up via the forest trail in approximately 1.5 hours (well-marked, moderate difficulty)

Lake Thun (Thunersee)

Lake Thun stretches 17.5 km from Interlaken to the city of Thun. Its northern shore is dotted with castles, vineyards, and picturesque villages.

Key stops on the BLS boat route:

• Spiez: Medieval castle on a peninsula, wine-growing region. Castle entry CHF 15
• Oberhofen: Fairy-tale lakeside castle with gardens. Castle entry CHF 16
• Thun: Charming medieval city with the imposing Thun Castle (12th century). Entry CHF 10
• Hilterfingen/Huttenen: Quiet village stops ideal for swimming in Summer

Boat information:

• Operator: BLS (Berner Oberland Schifffahrt)
• Full lake circuit: ~4 hours
• Price (Interlaken West to Thun): CHF 42 one way (free with Swiss Travel Pass)
• Departure point: Interlaken West boat pier
• GPS (pier): 46.6835, 7.8478

Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)

Lake Brienz is smaller but arguably more dramatic than Lake Thun, with steep mountain walls rising directly from turquoise-green water. The color comes from glacial meltwater carrying finely ground rock particles.

Key stops on the BLS boat route:

• Giessbach Falls: Spectacular 500-meter waterfall plunging in 14 stages directly into the lake. Accessible by a free historic funicular from the boat landing. The Grandhotel Giessbach (1873) sits directly beside the falls
• Brienz: Traditional woodcarving village at the eastern end of the lake. Home to the Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg (CHF 32 entry, free with Swiss Museum Pass). The Brienz Rothorn Railway (steam-powered cog railway to 2,350 m) departs from Brienz

Boat information:

• Full lake circuit: ~2.5 hours
• Price (Interlaken Ost to Brienz): CHF 32 one way (free with Swiss Travel Pass)
• Departure point: Interlaken Ost boat pier
• GPS (pier): 46.6898, 7.8700

Schynige Platte

A scenic cog railway from Wilderswil (one stop from Interlaken) climbs to 1,967 m through alpine meadows.

• Railway: 50-minute ride, operates early June to late October
• Round trip from Wilderswil: CHF 68 (25% discount with Swiss Travel Pass)
• At the summit: Alpine Garden (700+ plant species), Panoramaweg loop trail (45 min), classic hiking trail to First above Grindelwald (6 hours, experienced hikers)
• GPS (summit): 46.6553, 7.9081
• Ideal for: Families, flower enthusiasts, photographers

Activities & Experiences

Adventure Sports

Interlaken is Switzerland's undisputed adventure capital. The most popular activities:

All prices are 2026 estimates. Multiple operators compete in Interlaken -- ch.tours recommends booking through established companies affiliated with the Swiss Adventure Sports Association.

Hiking

The Jungfrau region offers over 300 km of marked hiking trails. Top trails accessible from Interlaken:

1. Harder Kulm Panorama Trail: Easy, 45 min loop at the summit. Stunning views
2. Schynige Platte to First (Grindelwald): Challenging, 6 hours, one of Switzerland's most famous ridge walks with views of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau
3. Lauterbrunnen Valley floor walk: Easy, 1.5 hours from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg through the valley of 72 waterfalls
4. Mannlichen Royal Walk: Easy, 35 min from the Mannlichen gondola station to the viewpoint. Spectacular Jungfrau views
5. Eiger Trail (Eigergletscher to Alpiglen): Moderate, 2 hours, following the base of the Eiger North Face

Winter Sports

The Jungfrau Ski Region (Grindelwald-Wengen-Murren) offers:

• 213 km of ski runs
• Altitudes from 796 m (Grindelwald) to 2,970 m (Schilthorn)
• Season: Mid-December to mid-April (higher areas through May)
• Day pass: CHF 75 adults (2026 prices)
• Equipment rental: From CHF 45/day in Interlaken

Getting Around

Train Connections from Interlaken

Interlaken has two train stations: Interlaken West (closer to town center, Lake Thun boats) and Interlaken Ost (main hub for Jungfrau region, Lake Brienz boats). The two stations are connected by a 3-minute train ride or a 20-minute walk along the Hohematte.

Tip from ch.tours: The Brunig Line train from Interlaken Ost to Lucerne is one of Switzerland's most scenic regular rail routes -- and it is completely free with the Swiss Travel Pass. Sit on the left side (heading toward Lucerne) for the best views over Lake Brienz.

By Bus

PostBus (PostAuto) connects Interlaken to smaller villages in the region. Key routes:

• Interlaken to Beatenberg (for paragliding launch sites): 25 min
• Interlaken to Iseltwald (lakeside village on Lake Brienz): 20 min
• All PostBus routes are covered by the Swiss Travel Pass

By Boat

• Lake Thun boats: Depart from Interlaken West pier
• Lake Brienz boats: Depart from Interlaken Ost pier
• Operator: BLS Navigation
• Swiss Travel Pass: Free on all regular boat services

On Foot and By Bike

The town center is small and walkable. Interlaken West to Interlaken Ost is a 20-minute flat walk along the Hoheweg, Interlaken's main boulevard with unobstructed Jungfrau views. Bike rentals are available at Interlaken Ost station (SBB Rent a Bike, from CHF 35/day for e-bikes).

Where to Eat

Traditional Swiss

International & Modern

Budget Options

• Co-op Restaurant (Interlaken West): Self-service, CHF 10-16 per meal
• Migros Restaurant (Interlaken Ost area): Self-service, CHF 10-15 per meal
• Funky Chocolate Club: Chocolate-making workshop + all-you-can-eat chocolate, CHF 29
• Kebab stands on Bahnhofstrasse: CHF 10-14 for a doner kebab
• Balmers Herberge (hostel restaurant): Open to non-guests, burgers and pizza, CHF 14-20

Where to Stay

By Budget

Where to Stay: Neighborhood Guide

• Hoheweg / Town Center: Best for first-time visitors. Walking distance to both stations, restaurants, and shops. Jungfrau views from many hotels
• Unterseen: Quieter, more authentic village atmosphere adjacent to Interlaken. Cobblestone center with local restaurants. 10-minute walk to Interlaken West
• Matten: The other adjoining village, between Interlaken Ost and the town center. Budget-friendly options
• Bonigen / Iseltwald (Lake Brienz): For those who want lakeside tranquility. Bus connections to Interlaken (15-20 min)

Day Trips from Interlaken

Interlaken's position at the heart of the Bernese Oberland makes it an ideal base.

Practical Information

Getting to Interlaken by Train (SBB)

Important: The Jungfrau Railway (Interlaken Ost to Jungfraujoch) is operated by Jungfrau Railways, not SBB. It is not fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, but pass holders receive a 25% discount.

Swiss Travel Pass in Interlaken

The Swiss Travel Pass provides significant value in the Interlaken region:

• Free: All SBB/BLS trains to and from Interlaken, all BLS boats on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, PostBus connections, Ballenberg museum entry
• 25% discount: Jungfraujoch, Harder Kulm, Schynige Platte, First gondola, Schilthorn, Mannlichen
• Not covered: Adventure activities (paragliding, canyoning, etc.), Trummelbach Falls entry

Weather by Season

Weather data: MeteoSwiss climate normals for Interlaken (station 3800)

Emergency & Practical Numbers

• Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 112
• Police: 117
• Ambulance: 144
• Rega (helicopter rescue): 1414
• Tourist Information: Interlaken Tourism, Marktgasse 1 (Interlaken Ost area), +41 33 826 53 00
• Opening hours: Mon-Fri 08:00-18:00, Sat 08:00-16:00 (Summer: Mon-Fri 08:00-19:00, Sat 08:00-17:00, Sun 10:00-16:00)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Interlaken worth visiting?

Yes, Interlaken is one of Switzerland's most exciting destinations, combining world-class mountain scenery with a unique adventure sports culture. Whether you want to ride the Jungfraujoch railway to 3,454 m, paraglide over two lakes, or simply hike through alpine meadows, Interlaken delivers. It consistently ranks among the top five most-visited destinations in Switzerland (source: Switzerland Tourism).

How many days do you need in Interlaken?

Three to four days is ideal to experience the highlights. Day one: Harder Kulm viewpoint and town exploration. Day two: Jungfraujoch excursion (full day). Day three: Lauterbrunnen Valley, Murren, or Schilthorn. Day four (optional): adventure activity (paragliding, canyoning) or lake cruise. If you only have one day, prioritize either the Jungfraujoch or Harder Kulm depending on your budget and weather conditions.

How do you get to Interlaken from Zurich?

Take an IC (InterCity) train from Zurich HB to Bern (56 min), then change to a direct IR (InterRegio) train to Interlaken Ost (50 min). Total journey: approximately 1 hour 55 minutes. Trains run every hour. A second-class ticket costs CHF 68 (free with Swiss Travel Pass). Alternatively, the scenic route via Lucerne and the Brunig Line takes approximately 2 hours 50 minutes but offers panoramic views.

What is the best time to visit Interlaken?

June to September is the best time for hiking, adventure sports, and mountain excursions, when all railways and trails are fully operational. For skiing, December to March offers excellent conditions in the Jungfrau Ski Region (up to 2,970 m). July and August are peak season with the highest prices and largest crowds -- consider June or September for better value and smaller queues at the Jungfraujoch.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass valid for the Jungfraujoch?

The Swiss Travel Pass is not fully valid for the Jungfraujoch, but it provides a 25% discount on the round trip ticket. The standard round trip from Interlaken Ost costs approximately CHF 240 (2026 prices), so the pass saves approximately CHF 60. The Swiss Travel Pass does cover all SBB and BLS trains to Interlaken, boats on both lakes, and provides 25% discounts on most other mountain railways in the region.

Can you visit Interlaken as a day trip from Zurich?

Yes, but it is a long day. With a 1h 55min train ride each way, you will have approximately 6-7 hours in the area if you depart Zurich by 08:00 and return by 20:00. This is enough for either the Jungfraujoch excursion or a visit to Harder Kulm plus a short lake cruise, but not both. ch.tours recommends staying at least two nights to make the most of the region.

Is Interlaken expensive?

Interlaken is moderately expensive by Swiss standards, with mountain excursions being the biggest cost. A budget traveler can manage on CHF 100-150 per day (hostel, self-catering, hiking). A mid-range budget is CHF 250-400 per day (3-star hotel, restaurant meals, one paid excursion). The Jungfraujoch alone costs approximately CHF 240 round trip, so factor that into your budget. Free activities include hiking in Lauterbrunnen Valley, exploring the town, and enjoying the Hohematte park views.

Where should you stay in Interlaken?

For first-time visitors, ch.tours recommends the Hoheweg area between the two train stations. Hotels here offer direct Jungfrau views, and both stations are within walking distance. Budget travelers should consider Balmers Herberge (Switzerland's oldest private hostel, dorms from CHF 35) or the Interlaken Youth Hostel. For a quieter experience, the neighboring village of Unterseen offers a more authentic atmosphere.

Is paragliding in Interlaken safe?

Yes, tandem paragliding in Interlaken has an excellent safety record. All commercial operators must be licensed by the Swiss Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SHV), and pilots hold professional tandem licenses with hundreds of hours of flight time. Flights are weather-dependent and will be cancelled if conditions are unsafe. Approximately 50'000 tandem paragliding flights take place in the Interlaken area each year (source: Interlaken Tourism).

What is the difference between Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost?

Interlaken has two train stations connected by a 3-minute train ride or 20-minute walk. Interlaken West is closer to the town center and the Lake Thun boat pier. Interlaken Ost is the main hub for the Jungfrau region (trains to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch) and the Lake Brienz boat pier. Most intercity trains stop at both stations. If arriving from Zurich or Bern, stay on the train until Interlaken Ost unless your hotel is near Interlaken West.

Can you see the Jungfraujoch without going up?

Yes. The Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau are visible from many locations around Interlaken for free. The best viewpoint is Harder Kulm (CHF 38 funicular round trip, 25% off with Swiss Travel Pass). The Hohematte park in the center of town also offers a clear view of the Jungfrau massif on clear days. For a budget alternative to the Jungfraujoch, take the train to Kleine Scheidegg (approximately CHF 78 round trip from Interlaken, 25% off with Swiss Travel Pass) -- you will be at the foot of the Eiger North Face at 2,061 m.

Insider Tips from Locals

1. The Good Morning Ticket to Jungfraujoch: Departing on the first trains before 08:00 not only saves approximately CHF 30 on the ticket, but you will arrive at the top before the tour groups. The summit is noticeably less crowded before 10:00, and morning light on the Aletsch Glacier is spectacular.

2. Sunset at Harder Kulm: The last funicular down departs at approximately 21:30 in Summer. Having dinner at the summit restaurant and watching the Jungfrau turn golden-pink at sunset is one of Interlaken's best-kept experiences.

3. Free Jungfrau views from the Hohematte: The large park in the center of Interlaken is where paragliders land, and it offers a clear view of the Jungfrau massif. Bring a picnic from the Co-op and watch the paragliders come in -- free entertainment with a world-class backdrop.

4. Giessbach Falls by boat: Take the Lake Brienz boat to the Giessbach stop and ride the free historic funicular up to the falls. The Grandhotel Giessbach terrace is open to non-guests for coffee -- one of the most spectacular café settings in Switzerland.

5. The Brunig Line window seat: The train from Interlaken Ost to Lucerne crosses the Brunig Pass and runs along Lake Brienz at water level. Sit on the left side (heading toward Lucerne) for the best views. This is a regular SBB service -- free with the Swiss Travel Pass -- but the scenery rivals any premium panoramic train.

6. Unterseen Old Town: Most tourists never leave the Hoheweg strip, but the medieval village of Unterseen -- technically a separate municipality that has merged with Interlaken -- has a charming town square, the oldest church in the region (built 1452), and several excellent restaurants at lower prices than the tourist center. It is a 10-minute walk from Interlaken West.

7. Weekday mountain visits: The Jungfraujoch and other popular mountain excursions are significantly less crowded on weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) compared to weekends and Mondays. If your schedule is flexible, avoid Saturday and Sunday for the best experience.

Source: ch.tours | Last updated: March 2026 | Data from MySwitzerland.com, SBB (sbb.ch), Jungfrau Railways (jungfrau.ch), BLS (bls.ch), MeteoSwiss, Interlaken Tourism (interlaken.ch), Swiss Federal Statistical Office (bfs.admin.ch)