20 Fun and Best things to do in interlaken switzerland

things to do in interlaken switzerland range from lakeside walks and mountain viewpoints to scenic rail trips and outdoor adventures. Set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this Swiss town is a handy base for exploring the Bernese Oberland.

Interlaken itself is compact, but many of its best-known experiences are in the surrounding mountains and villages. A little planning helps you choose what fits your budget, the weather, and the time you have.

This guide covers the top sights, local food, transport, seasonal advice, and practical details for first-time visitors. You can enjoy the town at a relaxed pace or use it as a launch point for busy day trips.

20 Things to Do in Interlaken Switzerland

Tip 1 – Walk through Höhematte Park

Höhematte is a broad central lawn with open views toward the Jungfrau massif. It is an easy place to pause between trains, watch paragliders land, or enjoy a picnic without paying for an attraction.

The park is especially pleasant in the morning and late afternoon, when the light changes across the mountains. Bring a layer even on a sunny day, since the weather can shift quickly in the region.

Tip 2 – Explore Interlaken’s center and Unterseen

Interlaken’s main streets are convenient for cafés, shops, hotels, and tour offices, while nearby Unterseen has a more historic small-town feel. Walk through its old streets and around the church square to see a quieter side of the area.

The two places are close enough to visit on foot. Give yourself time to browse rather than expecting a large historic city center: Interlaken’s appeal is its setting and its access to the surrounding landscape.

Tip 3 – Ride up to Harder Kulm

The funicular from Interlaken takes you to Harder Kulm, a viewpoint above town with sweeping views of both lakes and the surrounding mountains. At the top, the viewing platform is a popular spot for photos and a short break.

Check operating dates and the forecast before setting out, as services can be seasonal and clouds may hide the view. Walking uphill is an option for fit hikers, but the climb is steep and takes much longer than the funicular.

Tip 4 – Take a day trip to Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch, often called the Top of Europe, is a high-altitude excursion reached by mountain railways. Visitors come for the glacier scenery, viewing areas, and snow experiences, but the journey is expensive and takes a good part of the day.

Check the weather and rail conditions before booking. At this altitude, cold, wind, and thinner air can affect how you feel, even in summer. If the forecast is poor, consider saving the trip for another day rather than paying for a view that may be obscured.

Tip 5 – Visit Lauterbrunnen and its waterfalls

Lauterbrunnen sits in a dramatic valley surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls. It is an easy day trip from Interlaken by train, and the village makes a good starting point for gentle walks and further journeys into the mountains.

Staubbach Falls is visible near the village, while Trümmelbach Falls is a separate attraction inside the mountain. Check opening conditions for the latter before travelling, since access can be seasonal. Stay on marked paths and keep a safe distance from fast-moving water.

Tip 6 – Spend time by Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz is known for its striking blue-green water and mountain backdrop. Walk along an accessible stretch of shore, take a boat ride when services are running, or plan a stop in the lakeside village of Brienz.

Boat schedules vary by season, so check the timetable before building your day around a particular sailing. The water can look inviting, but it is cold for much of the year. Swim only where permitted and use designated access points.

Tip 7 – See Lake Thun from the water

A cruise on Lake Thun offers a slower way to enjoy the scenery, with views of villages, hillsides, and distant peaks. Depending on the route and timetable, you can combine a boat ride with a visit to a lakeside stop.

Boat trips are more enjoyable when you allow flexibility for delays or a longer stop. Check the current schedule and ticket options, and remember that a full lake excursion can take several hours.

Tip 8 – Make time for Giessbach Falls

Giessbach Falls drops through a wooded landscape above Lake Brienz. Paths and viewpoints let you experience the falls from different angles, and the area is a rewarding outing for travelers who want more than a quick town walk.

Depending on the season and route, you may combine the visit with a boat trip and a walk uphill. Wear shoes with good grip, especially after rain, and check transport connections before leaving Interlaken.

Tip 9 – Ride the historic train to Schynige Platte

The seasonal cogwheel railway to Schynige Platte is an experience in its own right, climbing through mountain scenery to high-altitude walking routes and panoramic viewpoints. On clear days, the ridge offers memorable views over the Bernese Alps.

Allow time for the train journey and check the latest operating dates. Some trails are exposed and can be challenging in changing weather, so choose a route that matches your fitness and bring suitable layers.

Tip 10 – Try an outdoor activity with a qualified operator

Interlaken is a popular base for paragliding, canyoning, rafting, and other guided activities. These experiences can be exciting, but they have different fitness, age, and weather requirements.

Book with an established operator, ask what is included, and check the cancellation policy and insurance terms. Do not choose solely by the lowest price. If conditions change, follow the guide’s advice rather than pressuring them to proceed.

Tip 11 – Take an easy walk along the Aare

The Aare River flows through Interlaken between the two lakes, creating a pleasant route for a relaxed stroll. Follow the riverside paths and bridges for local views without needing a car or a mountain excursion.

Keep to marked paths and be cautious near the water’s edge. River currents can be strong, and the water temperature is often cold. This is a simple, low-cost activity that fits well around train arrivals or a busy sightseeing day.

Tip 12 – Sample Swiss food in town

Look for Swiss staples such as rösti, fondue, raclette, and regional cheeses on local menus. A hearty meal can be a welcome treat after a day outdoors, though central restaurants may be costly compared with simple takeaway options.

Ask about seasonal dishes and portion sizes, and check whether a service charge is included. If you have dietary needs, contact a restaurant in advance where possible, as menu choices can vary between venues.

Tip 13 – Find a quiet picnic spot

A picnic is a practical way to keep meal costs down while enjoying Interlaken’s scenery. Pick up bread, cheese, fruit, or ready-to-eat food from a grocery store, then use a public park or permitted lakeside area.

Pack out all rubbish and respect signs about access or open fires. The weather can change quickly, so carry a light waterproof layer and avoid leaving food unattended around wildlife.

Tip 14 – Plan a family-friendly day

Families can combine a town walk, a lakefront stop, and a short rail or boat journey without trying to fit in every major attraction. Höhematte gives children room to move, while nearby viewpoints can make a memorable outing for older kids.

Check minimum ages, height limits, and equipment requirements before booking adventure activities. Strollers may not suit steep paths or mountain trails, so confirm accessibility and transport arrangements in advance.

Tip 15 – Choose free and low-cost activities

Not every day needs a costly mountain excursion. Walking through Höhematte, exploring Unterseen, following the Aare, and enjoying public viewpoints can fill a relaxed day at little cost.

For paid attractions, compare the cost of individual tickets with any regional travel pass you are considering. Pass benefits and coverage differ, so read the terms and check whether the journeys you actually plan to take are included.

Tip 16 – Pick the right season for your plans

Summer generally offers longer days and a wide choice of hiking and lake activities, while winter brings snow sports and a different mountain atmosphere. Spring and autumn can be quieter, but some routes and attractions may operate on reduced schedules.

Do not assume that every mountain railway, boat, or trail runs year-round. Check conditions for the exact dates of your visit and keep a flexible backup plan for rainy or cloudy weather.

Tip 17 – Use trains, buses, and boats thoughtfully

Interlaken is well connected by Swiss public transport, and trains make it straightforward to reach many nearby destinations. Local buses and lake boats can help complete an itinerary, but connections and service frequency vary by route and season.

Use the official SBB timetable and ticket information to check connections before you travel. Leave some buffer time for transfers, especially when combining different forms of transport or travelling with children and luggage.

Tip 18 – Book popular trips and check the forecast

Some excursions, guided activities, and high-season hotel rooms can sell out or become expensive close to the date. Reserve key experiences in advance if your schedule is fixed, but read the change and cancellation conditions carefully.

Check weather and operating updates the evening before and again on the day. For local ideas and current visitor information, browse the Interlaken tourism website.

Tip 19 – Pack for changing mountain weather

Bring comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sun protection, and an extra warm layer, even if the forecast looks mild in town. Mountain temperatures and conditions can differ sharply from those around the lakes.

For higher-altitude outings, carry water and snacks, and check whether your route has exposed sections. Download or save essential transport details before leaving reliable Wi-Fi, and tell someone your plan if you are heading onto a longer trail.

Tip 20 – Avoid the most common planning mistake

The most common mistake is trying to fit too many far-apart mountain excursions into a short stay. Interlaken is a convenient base, but travel time, weather, and seasonal timetables can take more of the day than expected.

Choose one main excursion each day and leave room for a nearby walk, a meal, or a change of plan. For another outdoor-focused trip on a separate itinerary, you can also browse these 20 Fun and Best things to do in dubois pa for ideas in Pennsylvania.

Quick Reference for Visiting Interlaken

Plan	What to know
Best for	Lake scenery, mountain day trips, walking, and guided outdoor activities
Getting around	Walk in town; use trains, buses, and boats for nearby destinations
Budget tip	Mix free town walks and picnics with one or two paid excursions
Weather planning	Check forecasts and operating schedules for each mountain and lake activity
Useful phrase	“Grüezi” is a polite Swiss German greeting; “Danke” means thank you
Emergency number	In Switzerland, call 112 for the general European emergency number; 144 for an ambulance and 117 for police

Visa & Entry Requirements

Entry rules for Switzerland depend on your passport, the purpose of your visit, and the government policies in effect when you travel. Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, but that does not mean the same visa or stay rules apply to every traveler. Check the Swiss government’s State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) information and contact the relevant Swiss embassy or consulate if you need clarification.

Before departure, confirm how long your passport must remain valid, whether it needs blank pages, and whether you need a visa or an electronic travel authorization. Rules can differ by passport and may change, so check official guidance well before booking. If you are visiting other Schengen countries, review how your full itinerary affects the permitted length of stay.

Be ready to explain your travel plans if asked at the border. Depending on your circumstances, an officer may request details such as a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, or evidence that you can support yourself during the visit. These documents are not a guarantee of entry, and requirements can vary.

Travel insurance is a sensible safeguard for medical care, cancellations, and activities such as hiking or paragliding. Check that your policy covers the specific activities you plan to do. Vaccination or health-document requirements, if any, depend on current policy and your travel history, so verify them with official government sources before departure.

Customs rules for items such as food, alcohol, tobacco, medicines, and goods purchased abroad also depend on current allowances and your situation. Review the Swiss Federal Office for Customs and Border Security guidance if you are carrying goods that may need to be declared. Keep important documents accessible, and recheck official information shortly before travel. This is general travel guidance, not legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should I spend in Interlaken?

Two or three days gives many visitors time to explore the town, enjoy one lake or mountain outing, and take a day trip to a nearby village. Add more days if you want to visit several mountain areas or build in time for weather changes.

What are the best things to do in Interlaken Switzerland on a budget?

Walk through Höhematte, explore Unterseen, follow the Aare, and enjoy public lakeside areas. A grocery-store picnic can also help keep costs down. Mountain transport and guided activities can be expensive, so choose the paid experiences that matter most to you.

Is Interlaken a good base for first-time visitors to Switzerland?

Yes. It has convenient transport connections, visitor services, and access to lakes and mountain destinations. It is also a busy tourist hub, so travelers looking for a quieter village stay may prefer to sleep elsewhere in the region and visit Interlaken as needed.

When is the best time to visit Interlaken?

The best time depends on what you want to do. Summer is popular for hiking and lake trips, while winter suits snow activities. Spring and autumn may feel calmer, but check attraction schedules because some services are seasonal.

Can you visit Jungfraujoch from Interlaken in one day?

Yes, it is commonly visited as a day trip, but allow a large part of the day for the rail journey and time at the top. Check the forecast and current railway information before you go, and consider the cost and high altitude when deciding.

Is Interlaken safe for travelers?

Interlaken is generally straightforward to explore, but use normal travel awareness. Watch your belongings in busy areas, follow trail and water-safety advice, and take changing mountain weather seriously. For an emergency in Switzerland, use the appropriate local emergency number.

Conclusion

Interlaken is a rewarding base for combining easy town walks with lake scenery, mountain railways, and outdoor adventures. The best things to do in Interlaken Switzerland depend on your interests, budget, and the conditions during your visit.

Plan one major excursion at a time, check transport and weather updates, and leave room for a slower afternoon by the river or in a park. With a flexible itinerary, you can enjoy the region without turning every day into a race between attractions.