Discover Interlaken | A Visitor's Introduction to Interlaken

Why is Interlaken Worth a Visit?

Interlaken is worth visiting for its unmatched accessibility to the Swiss Alps, spectacular natural surroundings, and the sheer range of activities on offer. With two lakes, a river running through the town, and towering mountains in every direction, it’s a landscape that feels both grand and serene.

The town is an adventure hub, known for its paragliding, skydiving, hiking, and lake cruises, but also caters to travellers seeking tranquillity, scenic train rides, and cultural experiences. Interlaken is also well-connected by rail, making it an ideal base for visiting highlights like Jungfraujoch, Schynige Platte, Harder Kulm, and villages such as Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Wengen.

Whether you're here for heart-pounding sports or peaceful alpine views, Interlaken's central location, natural beauty, and tourist-friendly infrastructure make it one of the most rewarding places to visit in Switzerland.

Interlaken Highlights: Things to See and Do in Interlaken

Harder Kulm – Interlaken’s Local Mountain

A quick ride on the Harderbahn funicular takes you to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s nearest panoramic viewpoint at 1,322 metres. From the viewing platform (which juts out over the valley), you’ll get incredible views of Interlaken, Lakes Thun and Brienz, and the Eiger-Mönch-Jungfrau trio.

There’s a restaurant with panoramic terraces, and it’s a popular spot for sunset dining. The trip only takes 10 minutes, making it an easy must-do.

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Accessible from Interlaken via the Jungfrau Railway, Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe (3,454 metres) and offers a full day of unforgettable scenery. Journey through Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Kleine Scheidegg, then ride through tunnels carved into the Eiger to reach the top.

Enjoy snow activities, glacier views, the Ice Palace, and the impressive Aletsch Glacier. The newly constructed Eiger Express cableway from Grindelwald has shortened journey times, but many still begin the trip in Interlaken.

Lake Thun (Thunersee)

To the west of Interlaken lies Lake Thun, a deep-blue alpine lake surrounded by castles, vineyards, and mountains. From Interlaken West, you can board a historic paddle steamer or modern cruise boat to explore lakeside towns like Spiez, Oberhofen, and Thun.

This lake is perfect for sailing, stand-up paddling, swimming, or enjoying lunch by the shore. Visit Oberhofen Castle, perched right on the water, or take a dip at Neuhaus beach just outside of town.

Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)

To the east, Lake Brienz is known for its turquoise water, peaceful villages, and dramatic cliff-lined shores. You can take a boat from Interlaken Ost to Brienz, Iseltwald, or the Giessbach Falls, where a vintage funicular leads to a grand 19th-century hotel.

Lake Brienz is slightly quieter than Thun and perfect for kayaking, fishing, and photography. The boat trip is especially stunning in autumn, when the surrounding forests turn golden.

Paragliding and Adventure Sports

Interlaken is Switzerland’s adventure capital. If you've ever wanted to try:

• Paragliding (take-off from Beatenberg, landing in Höhematte park),

• Skydiving,

• Canyoning,

• Hang gliding,

• Bungee jumping, or

• White-water rafting,

—this is the place to do it.

The thrill of flying over two lakes with the Alps in the background is an experience you'll never forget. Several reputable companies operate daily flights, and it’s suitable for first-timers too.

Höhematte Park

Right in the centre of Interlaken, Höhematte Park is a large open green space offering clear views of the Jungfrau. It’s the landing area for paragliders, and a great place to relax with an ice cream, watch the action, and admire the peaks.

The park is flanked by grand hotels like the Victoria Jungfrau, and nearby you'll find chocolate shops, cafés, and tourist boutiques. In winter, a small ice rink is set up, and during summer, it’s used for open-air events and concerts.

Schynige Platte

This old-fashioned alpine experience begins with a vintage cogwheel train from Wilderswil (5 minutes from Interlaken by train). At the top, Schynige Platte offers:

• Alpine flower trails,

• The Edelweiss Garden,

• Jaw-dropping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau,

• Traditional mountain huts and music.

Perfect for a half-day excursion, particularly from June to October when the alpine garden is in bloom.

Unterseen – Old Town Charm

Interlaken itself is quite modern, but the Unterseen neighbourhood, across the river from the main station, retains a more traditional feel. With historic wooden buildings, a peaceful town square, and a pretty church, Unterseen is a lovely place for a stroll or meal at a more local pace.

Visit Restaurant Stadthaus for Swiss dishes in a cosy, authentic setting.

Interlaken Monastery and Castle

A lesser-known historic site, the Augustinian Monastery and castle ruins are among the oldest buildings in the area. Located near the Interlaken Castle Church, it offers a glimpse into the region's mediaeval past before Interlaken became a tourist hotspot.

Heimwehfluh Funicular

This retro funicular railway, dating back to 1906, climbs a small hill west of town. At the top, you’ll find a panoramic viewpoint, model railway, and a small summer toboggan run. It’s especially nice for families and offers a quieter alternative to the more famous peaks.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Interlaken is extremely well-connected by rail and road:

• From Bern: 1 hour by train.

• From Zurich: Around 2 hours by train.

• From Geneva: About 3 hours by train.

There are two main train stations:

• Interlaken West (for access to Lake Thun and the town centre),

• Interlaken Ost (for connections to the Jungfrau region and Lake Brienz).

Parking

If arriving by car, Interlaken has several well-signposted public car parks:

• Parkhaus Zentrum (near the Promenade),

• Parking Jungfraupark (on the outskirts, with shuttle bus),

• Hotel car parks, usually available to non-guests for a fee.

Be aware that the town can be busy in summer—public transport is often more convenient.

Accommodation

Interlaken offers accommodation for all budgets:

• Luxury: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel, Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage

• Mid-range: Hotel Interlaken, Hotel Royal St Georges

• Budget: Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof, Alplodge, and several youth hostels

• Apartments: Plenty of self-catering flats and holiday homes

For a quieter stay, consider Wilderswil, Bönigen, or Iseltwald, all close by with good transport links.

Dining

Interlaken’s dining scene is broad and international, with Swiss classics and global cuisine:

• Restaurant Laterne: Swiss specialities like raclette and schnitzel.

• Ox Restaurant & Grill: Popular for burgers and steaks.

• Husi Bierhaus: Rustic tavern with hearty food and craft beer.

• Spice India and Layaly Beirut: Good options for international flavours.

Street food stalls and lakeside cafés offer casual meals and great people-watching spots.

Shopping

You’ll find a mix of:

• Souvenir shops (Swiss army knives, chocolate, cuckoo clocks),

• Watch and jewellery boutiques,

• Outdoor gear stores for hiking and skiing equipment.

Swiss chocolate shops and farmers’ markets (especially in Unterseen) are great for gifts.

When to Visit

• Spring (April–May): Waterfalls, wildflowers, and fewer crowds.

• Summer (June–September): Peak season for hiking, lake activities, and adventure sports.

• Autumn (October): Golden landscapes, quiet trails, and crisp air.

• Winter (December–March): Great for day trips to ski resorts, snowy walks, and festive charm.

Local Events

• Greenfield Festival (June): Major rock music festival near Interlaken.

• International Trucker & Country Festival (July): A quirky and popular weekend of trucks, country music, and barbecue.

• Unspunnen Festival (held every 12 years): Celebrates Swiss traditions with yodelling, wrestling, and folk music.

• Christmas Market (December): Cosy wooden stalls and lights along the river.

Exploring Beyond Interlaken

Interlaken is perfectly positioned for day trips:

• Lauterbrunnen (20 mins): The famous valley of waterfalls.

• Grindelwald (30 mins): Mountain village with dramatic scenery and access to First and the Eiger.

• Wengen and Mürren: Car-free alpine villages reachable by train and cable car.

• Thun (30 mins): A lively town with a castle and beautiful old town.

• Brienz (20 mins): Lakeside town with woodcarving tradition and access to the Brienzer Rothorn railway.

Interlaken is more than a tourist base—it's a destination in its own right. With its unique setting between lakes and mountains, range of activities from calm to extreme, and easy access to Switzerland’s most iconic natural wonders, Interlaken offers something for everyone. Whether you're here to paraglide off a cliff, cruise on a lake, or simply sip coffee with a view of the Jungfrau, Interlaken is the perfect launchpad into the heart of the Swiss Alps.