Interlaken 2025 ๐จ๐ญ | Lakes, Mountains & Adventures
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Interlaken 2025 ๐จ๐ญ | Lakes, Mountains & Adventures
Interlaken 2025 ๐จ๐ญ | Lakes, Mountains & Adventures
Interlaken sits between two lakes and below some of the most famous peaks in the Alps. Itโs the adventure hub of Switzerland and a key stop in any 9-day Switzerland itinerary, whether youโre a family or a couple looking for big mountain views.
Why base yourself in Interlaken?
Interlaken is not the prettiest old town in Switzerland, but itโs one of the most practical bases: excellent train connections, easy access to lakes and valleys, and tons of activities for different ages.
- Perfect hub for Lauterbrunnen Valley, Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch.
- Sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
- Plenty of hotels, from budget to luxury, plus apartments for families.
- Ideal for 3โ4 nights within a 9-day Switzerland itinerary.
๐ก If you prefer quieter villages, you can still use Interlaken as a transport hub and sleep in nearby places like Lauterbrunnen or Wengen, but Interlaken is easier for first-timers.
What youโll find in this Interlaken guide
Interlaken at a glance
Interlaken literally means โbetween the lakesโ. Itโs located in the Bernese Oberland region and is one of the most popular bases for exploring the Jungfrau area.
- Region: Bernese Oberland, central Switzerland.
- Lakes: Lake Thun (deep blue) & Lake Brienz (turquoise).
- Main peaks nearby: Jungfraujoch, Harder Kulm, Grindelwald First.
- Best time to visit: late MayโOctober for green valleys and open lifts; winter for snow activities.
Top things to do in Interlaken (and around)
Interlaken itself is about views, parks and activities. The real magic is in the surrounding lakes, waterfalls and villages:
1) Interlaken town & Hohematte Park
The central green area where paragliders land, surrounded by hotels and views of the Jungfrau massif on clear days.
- Walk along Hรถheweg street with shops and cafรฉs.
- Relax in Hohematte Park and watch paragliders landing.
2) Lake Thun
Deep blue lake west of Interlaken, dotted with castles and small towns.
- Take a Lake Thun cruise from Interlaken West.
- Visit towns like Spiez or Thun.
3) Lake Brienz
Turquoise lake east of Interlaken, famous for its colour and quiet atmosphere.
- Join a Lake Brienz boat trip from Interlaken Ost.
- Combine the cruise with Giessbach Falls using the funicular.
4) Harder Kulm viewpoint
The classic viewpoint above Interlaken, reached by a short funicular ride.
- Take the Harder Kulm funicular for panoramic views over both lakes and the Jungfrau peaks.
- Enjoy the viewing platform and restaurant at the top.
5) Adventure activities: paragliding, jet boat & rafting
Interlaken is known for adrenaline activities, especially in summer.
- Paragliding in Interlaken โ launch from nearby hills and land in Hohematte Park.
- Jet boat tours on Lake Brienz.
- Rafting trips in local rivers (seasonal).
6) Day trips: Lauterbrunnen & Grindelwald
Two of the most scenic valleys and mountain villages in Switzerland, easily reached by train from Interlaken.
- Lauterbrunnen Valley โ waterfalls, green meadows and classic Swiss scenery.
- Grindelwald โ mountain village with access to First and other viewpoints.
7) Jungfraujoch โ Top of Europe
The most famous high-altitude excursion from Interlaken, with snow, ice and big glacier views.
- Take a train from Interlaken Ost via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch.
- Visit the Ice Palace, viewing platforms and snow areas (in season).
โ For small children: jet boats, rafting and some high-altitude hikes may not be suitable; always check age limits.
Where to stay in Interlaken
Interlaken has two main train stations: Interlaken West (closer to Lake Thun) and Interlaken Ost (closer to Lake Brienz and many mountain connections).
- Near Interlaken West โ good for Lake Thun cruises and slightly quieter streets.
- Near Interlaken Ost โ convenient for trains to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch.
- Close to Hohematte Park โ lots of hotels, easy access to shops and restaurants.
๐ Later you can create separate articles like family hotels in Interlaken and budget hotels in Interlaken.
Search hotels in Interlaken ๐จTransport & how to get around Interlaken
Interlaken is one of the easiest places in Switzerland to move around without a car.
- Trains connect Interlaken with Bern, Zurich, Lucerne and beyond.
- Local trains run from Interlaken Ost towards Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.
- Lifts and funiculars take you up to Harder Kulm, First, Mรคnnlichen and other viewpoints.
- Boats connect Interlaken to towns along Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
๐ณ Compare a Swiss Travel Pass with regional passes (like the Jungfrau Travel Pass) if you plan multiple mountain days.
Suggested 2-day Interlaken mini itinerary
Hereโs a simple way to fit Interlaken into your Switzerland itinerary:
- Day 1: Interlaken town, Hohematte Park, and a Lake Brienz cruise (optionally with Giessbach Falls).
- Day 2: Full-day excursion to Jungfraujoch or a combination of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, with First or Mรคnnlichen.
Interlaken FAQ โ common questions
How many nights should I stay in Interlaken?
For a first trip, 3โ4 nights in Interlaken works well. It gives you time for lake cruises, at least one full mountain day and a visit to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.
Is Interlaken good for families?
Yes. Itโs easy to reach by train, there are many hotel options and you can choose soft activities like Lake Thun cruises, Lake Brienz cruises and easy valley walks.
What about paragliding โ is it safe?
Tandem paragliding in Interlaken is run by licensed operators and is very popular. Always check age and weight limits and pick a well-reviewed company when you book.
Do I need a car in Interlaken?
No. Most visitors rely entirely on trains, buses, lifts and boats. A Swiss Travel Pass or a regional pass is often more convenient than renting a car.
Where to go after Interlaken?
After Interlaken, you can either stay in Switzerland for more lakes and cities, or combine your trip with another nearby country:
