Switzerland

Interlaken

True to its name, Interlaken sits 'between lakes' (Thun and Brienz). It serves as the world's 'Adventure Capital' and the primary gateway to the massive peaks of the Jungfrau region, offering a perfect blend of charm and adrenaline.

Destination Overview

Best Time

June–September or December–February

Length of Stay

3–4 days

Budget Range

Mid-range / Luxury

Top Things to Do

Harder Kulm

Funicular ride to a viewing platform with panoramic views of both lakes and the high peaks.

CHF 34–40

Sunset

Paragliding

Take off from Beatenberg and land in the heart of town at Höhematte Park.

Approx. CHF 170–190

Morning

Lake Brienz or Thun Cruise

Relaxing way to see lakeside castles, emerald waters, and the Giessbach Falls.

Day pass approx. CHF 74 (Free with Swiss Travel Pass)

Lunch cruise

Where to Stay

Budget

Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof

Highly rated, clean, free breakfast, and includes a Guest Card for free local buses.

Mid-Range

Hotel Interlaken

Historic hotel next to the Japanese Garden and Interlaken Ost station.

Luxury

Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Prestigious hotel with world-class spa facilities and iconic Jungfrau views.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Lake & Heights

Morning: Boat cruise on Lake Brienz to Giessbach Falls
Afternoon: Funicular up to Harder Kulm for sunset
Evening: Dinner and drinks at Husi Bierhaus

Adventure Day

Morning: Tandem Paragliding flight
Afternoon: Explore St. Beatus Caves or visit Thun
Evening: Swiss Fondue feast in the Old Town

Gateway to Peaks

Morning: Train to Lauterbrunnen (72 waterfalls)
Afternoon: Continue to Mürren or Grindelwald for hiking
Evening: Sunset walk along the Aare River

How to Get There

Nearest AirportZurich Airport (ZRH) or Bern Airport (BRN)
Transportation from AirportDirect Train (IC 81) from Zurich Airport (2h 10m) or the panoramic Luzern-Interlaken Express.
Visa Requirements Schengen Area rules. ETIAS required for visa-exempt countries from 2026.

Getting Around

Public TransportExcellent local buses (Free with Interlaken Guest Card)
Transportation Apps
SBB Mobile
Daily Transport Budget$0–$60

Daily Budget

Accommodation$45–$500+

Food$40–$90

Transportation$15–$80

Activities$40–$250

Total Per Day~$140–$900+

Where to Eat

Husi Bierhaus

Vast beer selection and hearty local specialties ($$)

Velo Café

Trendy, bike-themed spot for brunch and specialty coffee ($)

Must Try Dish

Cheese Fondue (try it at Des Alpes or Restaurant Taverne)

What to Pack

Clothing: Layers (mountain peaks are cold), windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes
Documents: Passport, ETIAS approval, Swiss Travel Pass
Gadgets: Action camera (GoPro) for adventure sports

Essential Tips

🛡️ Safety: Check live webcams before buying high-altitude tickets.

💡 Money: Shop at Coop Supermarket for high-quality, affordable picnic supplies.

🤝 Etiquette: Don't stand in the middle of Höhematte Park; it's a paraglider landing zone!

Important ReminderKnow the difference between Interlaken Ost (mountains) and West (old town) stations.

Top Photo Spots

Two Lakes Bridge at Harder Kulm
Höhematte Park with paragliders and the Victoria-Jungfrau
Iseltwald (the 'Crash Landing on You' filming location)