Things to Do in Interlaken

Switzerland is famous for its picture perfect alpine villages, turquoise coloured lakes and towering snow-capped mountains. These are the reasons why people visit Switzerland and why so many fall in love with it.

One of the most easily accessible of these villages is Interlaken in the heart of the Bernese Oberland region. It’s the perfect place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding Alps and lakes and attracts a big backpacker crowd, as well as those looking to hike up the mountains.

Situated between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is surrounded by some of the Alps highest peaks, Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.

Known as the second most popular place for travelling thrill seekers around the world, Interlaken offers the opportunity to throw yourself off cliffs or planes, thrash through rapids or glide over the spectacular mountain scenery.

But this charming traditional village in the Alps is more than just a thrill seekers paradise. The scenery is just as good with your two feet planted firmly on the ground or from a sedate train, boat or funicular.

With such an abundance and varied list of things to do in Interlaken, I guarantee that no matter how long you stay, you will leave wanting more. Interlaken isn’t just another Swiss village, it is THE ultimate Swiss village.

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Awaken Your Inner Thrill Seeker

Interlaken offers multiple opportunities for those who like a bit of action and adventure in their life and travels. Choose from water based activities like white water rafting and canyoning or stay dry and get up in the sky with a jump from a plane or paragliding in Switzerland over the mountain peaks and lakes. In the winter time your right in the action for skiing (not so thrill seeking), night sledding and ice climbing. What ever activity gets your blood pumping the most, you’ll find in Interlaken or somewhere nearby.

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Day Trip to Jungfrau

The Top of Europe is the term used to describe the highest railway station in Europe, Jungfraujoch, at 3,454m. The journey to Jungfraujoch is a long one, but well worth the time and cost.

The scenic train journey itself, via three different trains, is the biggest attraction, but once you reach the top there are a few things to do too.

Firstly make sure you head to the open air viewing platform to get the best view of the glacier and craggy peaks. You can also visit the Ice Palace, walk out on the snow or go sledging and skiing if you have more time to spare.

The journey to Jungraujoch can be done independently, or you can book a guided tour. Pre-purchasing tickets here instead of buying them when you arrive will save you money.

Address: The first train leaves from Interlaken Ost station to either Gridelward or Lauterbrunnen, the second train is to Kleine Scheidegg and last train takes you to Junfraujoch. Return journey is the same.

Cost: Return Fare for all three trains – Second Class from CHF200, First Class CHF220 – Half fare is available to children as well as students with a valid student card.

Hours: Trains run all year round with a journey time of about two and a half hours each way. First departure from Interlaken Ost is around 06:30 and the last train back to Interlaken Ost form Jungfrujoch is around 17:45.

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Take a Cruise on Lake Thun & Lake Brienz

Interlaken is home to two of the finest lakes in Switzerland.  And what better way to enjoy them than with a cruise on one or both of them. A cruise through the crystal clear glacier waters of Lake Thun or Lake Brienz takes you past picturesque fishing villages and castles steeped in history. Towering mountains surround the lake making for some of the most jaw dropping scenery.

Address: Lake Thun cruises depart from the ferry dock near Interlaken West Station and Lake Brienz cruises depart from the ferry dock near Interlaken Ost.

Cost: One day ticket includes unlimited hop on hop off on both lakes and train travel between Interlaken West and Ost stations. Adult CHF68.00, Child/Concession CHF15.00

Hours: Cruises run roughly from 08:30 until last light depending on the time of year. Check out the timetables in the link below.

More Information: http://bls.ch/e/schifffahrt/schifffahrt.php

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Ride the Funicular up Harder Kulm

For the best view of Interlaken, Lakes Thun and Brienz and the surrounding mountains including the big three, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, take the funicular up Harder Kulm. In just eight minutes you reach 1,322m above sea level and from the restaurant and viewing area you are met with views that are simply breathtaking.

This is also a perfect place to start many great hikes through the surrounding mountains with information boards available near the restaurant.

Address: Funicular departs from Brienzstrasse on the other side of the river from Interlaken Ost station.

Cost: One Way – Adult CHF32.00 | Child CHF16.00

Hours: Operates everyday from later April to October | First departure is around 09:00 and last return around 21:00

More Information: http://www.jungfrau.ch/

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Wander the Town Centre

There are two sides to Interlaken’s town centre, the main street and the streets north of the main street leading to the river.

The Main street is strictly shopping and mostly for tourists. I wouldn’t skip past it too quickly but you don’t need to spend too much time here. If you’re looking to buy some Swiss chocolate, Swiss Army Knives or souvenir type items then this is where to go.

After you’ve finished with your shopping, head north through the small collection of streets that lead to the river. Here you will find more traditional buildings decorated with baskets of flowers and colourful window shutters.

When you get to the bridge crossing the river, enjoy the view of the turquoise glacier waters moving rapidly towards the lake.

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Where to Stay in Interlaken

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget

Hirschen
Modern comfort in a 16th century landmark building which has been restored to its original splendour. All 20 guest rooms feature private bathrooms, TV and radio. The garden terrace provides views of Mount Virgin. Book Now

Mid Range

Hotel Alphorn
This family owned hotel is quietly situated 200 m from Interlaken West Station. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV and small bathrooms with showers. Free Wi-Fi and free parking are also available. Buffet breakfast is on offer every morning. Book Now

Luxury

Hotel Interlaken
Located in the heart of Interlaken near the Eastern Train Station, this 4-star hotel next to the Japanese Gardens dates back to the 14th century. Rooms offer free internet access, cable TV, a safe, and a work desk. There is also a onsite restaurant and bar. Book Now

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Over to you!

What’s top of your list of things to do in Interlaken? Or have you been already, what did you love about it?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.