Nestled between the lakes Thun and Brienz, Interlaken is a gem in the heart of Switzerland, that’s why we’re today talking all the things to do in Interlaken. While we’ve previously discussed the Jungfrau region and Jungfraujoch on this blog, let’s dive in to this beautiful town today.
Top things to do in Interlaken
Interlaken is located in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, within the Bernese Overland region of the Swiss Alps. To translate that, Interlaken is located in the central Switzerland, sits at 566 meters above the see level, and is positioned between to lakes: Thun and Brienz. Its name translates to between lakes.
The town is situated along the Aare River, which flows from Lake Brienz to Lake Thun, and serves as a major transport hub for accessing the surrounding mountains, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Interlaken is approximately 56 km (35 miles) south of Bern, 122 km (76 miles) from Zürich, and 217 km (135 miles) from Geneva, making it easily accessible by train and car from major Swiss cities. More on that below.
Go to the Top of Europe – Jungfraujoch
One of the obvious answers on the topic of things to do in Interlaken, is taking the train around the Jungfrau region, or to go to the Top of Europe – Jungfraujoch. I’ve already written two very extensive articles about my experience and recommendation but to some it up – it is definitely worth exploring the region for couple days and you shouldn’t miss the Jungfraujoch – it is a one-in-lifetime kind of experience.
Cruise Lakes Thun and Brienz
As I’ve already mentioned, Interlaken is located in between two lakes – Thunersee and Brienzersee. While visitors come here mainly to get to the highest located train station, the lakes are also worth while and I personally enjoyed it. Plus it’s included in the Jungfrau Pass, so if you’re already sick of the mountain and trains (as if), it’s a nice alternative to see the region from a little different point of you. Personally, I recommend, it takes about an hour to get to the other side of the lake.
Top things to do in Interlaken: Outdoor Adventures
For outdoor enthusiasts, paragliding, canyoning, skiing or hiking are very top things in Interlaken. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular among beginners and if you’re staying in any of the camping sites by the sea, chances are that they’ll offer you to lend a paddle board for free.
Höhematte Park
This expansive park is perfect for picnics and relaxation, featuring beautiful flowerbeds and views of the Jungfrau mountains. It’s also a great spot to watch paragliders to land.
St. Beatus Caves
Located just a short distance from Interlaken, these impressive caves feature stunning rock formations and a fascinating history. Guided tours are available.
Giessbach Falls
A beautiful waterfall located near Lake Brienz, accessible by a historic funicular. The area also features charming hiking trails and picnic spots.
Panoramabrücke Sigriswil
This pedestrian suspension bridge offers breathtaking views of Lake Thun and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot for photography and enjoying the scenery
Interlaken Monastery and Castle
A historical site that showcases the architectural heritage of the region. The castle grounds are open to the public and provide lovely views of the area.
Things to do in Interlaken: Cultural Experiences
Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg: This museum features traditional Swiss houses and exhibits showcasing Swiss culture and history. It’s a great way to learn about the region’s heritae
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Swiss specialties such as cheese and chocolate. Consider joining a food tour for a more immersive experience.
Weather Interlaken
Interlaken experiences a temperate climate, making it an all-year-round destination. Summers are warm and inviting, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). This is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding.
Winter brings a different charm. The snow-capped mountains create a breathtaking backdrop as temperatures drop to around -2°C (28°F). It’s the ideal time for skiing or simply enjoying cozy evenings by the fire.
Spring and autumn are transitional seasons that showcase stunning scenery. Spring blooms with vibrant flowers, while autumn paints the landscape in rich hues of orange and gold.
Keep in mind that weather can change rapidly here due to its mountainous terrain. Always check forecasts before your adventures. I checked the Jungfrau webcams and highly recommend anyone doing the same! Especially if you’re going into the mountains, the weather may look significantly differ than on the ground.
Interlaken Ost
Interlaken Ost is more than just a train station; it’s a gateway to adventure or to be more specific – all the trains you can think off. The station itself features quaint shops and cafes where you can grab a quick bite or souvenir before heading out on your next journey. To be completely fair, it’s not the nicest train station you’ll be on in your life but it does the trick. There are free toilets situated there, a coffee shop and souvenir shop as well as massive coop.
If you’re planning day trips to Jungfraujoch or Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken Ost is your launchpad. It’s convenient and well-connected, making traveling easy and enjoyable so that every moment counts when exploring this Swiss gem.
Zurich to Interlaken
Traveling from Zurich to Interlaken is a scenic journey that showcases the beauty of Switzerland. The distance is about 120 kilometers, making it a comfortable trip for day travelers.
Trains run frequently between these two cities, taking approximately two hours. Be sure to grab a window seat; the views are nothing short of breathtaking.
If you prefer driving, renting a car gives you flexibility to explore along the way. The drive will be also around two hours, and I highly recommend buying the Swiss highway – you’ll pay once and choose the from different type of tickets. We were travelling with a car and caravan, so it really helped, because let’s be completely honest, whether you’re travelling from Zurich to Interlaken, or from Bern, the mountain roads can be tricky to navigate.
Is Interlaken worth the visit?
Interlaken serves as a central hub for exploring the Bernese Oberland region. It has excellent transport links, including trains and buses, making it easy for visitors to access nearby attractions and towns. While the town gives spa vibes and is definitely worth visiting by its own, I wouldn’t go out of my way to get here if you’re not staying for couple days to properly explore the Jungfrau region.