Interlaken - Discovering Switzerland

Travelling to Interlaken

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Interlaken, a pretty good destination in Switzerland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Interlaken and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Interlaken, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Switzerland, here's everything to know about Interlaken for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Interlaken

Interlaken is a small town located in the heart of Switzerland, surrounded by the Swiss Alps and situated between two beautiful lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. With its breathtaking scenery and numerous outdoor activities, Interlaken is a popular destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxing vacation. Visitors can indulge in activities like hiking, skiing, paragliding, kayaking, and more. The town also offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions, including the Jungfrau Railway and the St. Beatus Caves. With its welcoming hospitality and picturesque landscapes, Interlaken is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Switzerland.

What to visit in Interlaken

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Interlaken, Switzerland: 1. Jungfraujoch - It is the highest point in Europe accessible by train with an elevation of 3,454 meters. The journey to Jungfraujoch offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Once you reach the top, you'll find the Ice Palace, shops, and restaurants.
2. Lake Brienz - This turquoise blue lake is a popular spot for boating, swimming, and fishing during the summer months. The lake is surrounded by mountain peaks, making it a picturesque location for a picnic.
3. Harder Kulm - The Harder Kulm is a mountain peak that offers stunning panoramic views of Interlaken and the surrounding mountains. You can reach the top of the mountain by taking a funicular railway from Interlaken.
4. Schilthorn - The Schilthorn is a mountain peak that was made famous by the James Bond movie "On Her Majesty's Secret Service." The peak offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and a rotating restaurant at the top.
5. St. Beatus Caves - The St. Beatus Caves are a series of underground caves that are open to tourists. The caves feature underground waterfalls and lakes, making for a unique and exciting experience.
6. Grindelwald - Grindelwald is a charming Swiss village located in the foothills of the Alps. It offers various hiking trails and skiing opportunities during the winter months.
7. Interlaken Monastery - The Interlaken Monastery is a historic monastery that is open to the public for guided tours. The monastery dates back to the 12th century and features beautiful artwork and architecture.
8. Unterseen - It is a charming village located on the banks of the Aare River. Unterseen boasts colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and a beautiful Gothic-style church. It is also a great starting point for exploring the region by bike or hiking. These are just a few popular tourist attractions in Interlaken, Switzerland. There are many more beautiful places to see and explore in this stunning region.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Switzerland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Interlaken.

When to go on holiday to Interlaken

The best time to go on holiday to Interlaken depends on your preferences and interests. If you enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, the best time to go is from December to February when the slopes are open and there is plenty of snow.
If you prefer milder weather and outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking, the best time to go is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is breathtaking.
Overall, Interlaken is a great holiday destination all year round, but it's recommended to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Interlaken

Interlaken is located in the heart of Switzerland and can be easily reached by various means of transportation. Here are some options: 1. By plane: The nearest international airports are Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA). From there, you can take a train to Interlaken.
2. By train: Interlaken is well-connected by train from major Swiss cities, including Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, and Lucerne. You can take a direct train to Interlaken or change trains at one of these cities.
3. By car: Interlaken is accessible by car, but keep in mind that Switzerland has strict driving laws and a vignette (toll sticker) is required to drive on Swiss motorways.
4. By bus: There are also bus services available to Interlaken from various cities in Switzerland and neighboring countries.
Once you arrive in Interlaken, the town's central location makes it easy to explore the surrounding areas by public transportation.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Interlaken, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Interlaken

Interlaken is a beautiful town located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Here are some typical foods you can try in Interlaken with a short description for each of them: 1. Rösti: This is a popular Swiss dish made of grated potato that is fried until crispy. It can be served plain or with various toppings such as cheese, bacon, or fried egg.
2. Raclette: This dish features melted cheese that is scraped off a heated wheel and typically served with boiled potatoes, pickles, and onions.
3. Fondue: This is a staple of Swiss cuisine, a melted cheese dip that is served with chunks of bread for dipping. There are also variations such as chocolate fondue for dessert.
4. Zurchergeschnetzeltes: This dish is made with sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce and served with rösti or noodles.
5. Berner Platte: A hearty meat plate featuring various smoked and cured meats such as ham, sausages, and bacon, served with boiled potatoes and sauerkraut.
These are just a few of the delicious dishes you can enjoy in Interlaken, but be sure to taste some of the local chocolates and Swiss cheese as well!
You can find general info about typical foods in Switzerland here.

Is Interlaken an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Interlaken can be considered an expensive destination for tourists as Switzerland is known for its high cost of living. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities can be quite high in Interlaken. However, there are ways to save money such as staying in hostels, cooking your own meals, and participating in free outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. It's important to plan carefully and budget accordingly to make the most of your trip to Interlaken.

Where to find accomodation in Interlaken

Interlaken is a small town surrounded by the Swiss Alps and there are a few areas where it's best to find accommodation to make the most of your visit. 1. Interlaken Ost: This is the main train station in Interlaken and a good place to stay if you plan to visit nearby attractions such as Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It's also within walking distance of the town center.
2. Interlaken West: This area is closer to the Harder Kulm funicular, which offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains. It's also within walking distance of the town center.
3. Lauterbrunnen: Often described as the gateway to the Alps, Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque village located a short train ride from Interlaken. It's surrounded by waterfalls and mountains and is a great place to stay if you plan to go hiking or skiing.
4. Grindelwald: Another picturesque village located near Interlaken, Grindelwald is a popular skiing destination and a good place to stay if you plan to hit the slopes. It's also a good base for hiking in the summer and offers stunning views of the Eiger mountain. Overall, it really depends on what you plan to do during your visit to Interlaken, but any of these areas would provide a great base for exploring the town and the surrounding area.
You can check hotel prices at Interlaken here:
Booking.com

Is Interlaken a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Interlaken is generally a very safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Switzerland is relatively low compared to other countries in the world and Interlaken is no exception. However, as with any tourist destination, visitors should always take reasonable precautions to protect their valuables and avoid any potential hazards. It is also important to stay aware of your surroundings and take note of any potential safety hazards, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Switzerland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Interlaken.

What type of travelers will enjoy Interlaken the most?

Interlaken is a destination that caters to a variety of travelers, including couples, young people and families. The town is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps and offers stunning scenery, picturesque mountain views, and a plethora of outdoor activities suitable for all ages. Couples will appreciate the romantic atmosphere of the town, surrounded by beautiful mountains, lakes, valleys, and waterfalls. They can enjoy activities such as hiking, paragliding, skiing, ice skating, or simply relaxing at one of the many spas and wellness centers in the area.
Young people will enjoy the lively nightlife in Interlaken, with bars, clubs, and live music venues. The town also offers several adrenaline-fueled adventures such as bungee jumping, canyoning, and white water rafting.
Families with children will find that Interlaken provides a great starting point for many outdoor adventures, such as hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. There are also several family-friendly attractions such as the Jungfrau Park and the Trummelbach Falls. Overall, Interlaken is a destination that offers something for everyone and is an excellent choice for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Switzerland.

How to get around Interlaken

Interlaken is a relatively small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance from each other. However, if you want to explore surrounding areas or have limited mobility, you can use public transport, such as buses or trains. The local bus network in Interlaken is reliable and convenient, and you can buy tickets at the bus station or directly from the driver. Additionally, the trains are a great transportation option, with regular services to nearby towns and other major destinations in Switzerland. If you plan to visit the mountains, you may also consider taking the cable car or cogwheel train to reach your destination.

What to see around Interlaken

Sure, here are some ideas for day trips from Interlaken: 1. Grindelwald: A picturesque Alpine village with great views of the mountains. Take the cable car to First for even more stunning views.
2. Lauterbrunnen: A valley with 72 waterfalls and some great hiking trails. The Trümmelbach Falls, accessible by a lift, are particularly spectacular.
3. Lake Brienz: A crystal-clear lake surrounded by forests, mountains, and charming villages. Take a boat ride for optimal views.
4. Harder Kulm: A mountain peak with a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of Interlaken and the surrounding region. You can take a funicular to reach the top.
5. Thun: A charming medieval town on the shores of Lake Thun. The castle, old town, and lake promenade are all worth a visit.
6. Jungfraujoch: One of the most famous day trips from Interlaken, this is the highest train station in Europe, located on the saddle between the Jungfrau and the Mönch mountains. You'll see spectacular ice formations and glaciers along the way.
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