28 Best Things to Do in Interlaken, Switzerland
We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences such as unique images and perspectives. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. Learn more ›
Written by Kyle Kroeger
If you’re looking for a charming town with plenty of activities, look no further than Interlaken, Switzerland. There are many hiking trails to explore, cruises on the lakes, and rides up to Jungfraujoch. You can also find great shopping and dining opportunities, fascinating museums, and beautiful temples.
Interlaken is a charming town that caters to multiple tastes, such as relaxing or adventurous vacations. If you’re looking for things to do in Interlaken, here are some of the best activities you can enjoy:
Things to Do in Interlaken, Switzerland
1. Hike the trails around Interlaken
There are many hiking trails to explore around Interlaken, and you can take in the stunning scenery by walking or biking. The route from Giessbach to Isellingwald has a variety of walking trails.
The longest, easiest, and arguably the best is the trail that runs along Lake Shore without taking you up steeper hills and through forests.
This is a great trail to take if you’re looking for exercise and fresh air while marveling at Switzerland’s natural beauty. The Lakefront Path from Giessbach to Iseltwald is a lovely stroll, unlike other spectacular paths on nearby mountains.
2. Take a boat tour of Lake Thun
Looking for a unique and relaxing way to spend a day in the Swiss Alps? Consider taking a boat tour of one of the area’s most stunning lakes, Lake Thun. This beautiful option offers enchanting views of the surrounding mountains.
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a sunny day, the colorful villages that line the shore will add extra beauty to the landscape.
Lake Thun is a popular destination for boat trips, and there are several different kinds of boats to select. If you’re searching for a genuine one-of-a-kind experience, try finding a boat driven by paddlewheels.
These boats are rare nowadays but offer a fun and exciting travel method. Plus, you might even get lucky and find one that is decked out in Belle Epoque-style decor! You will have a memorable and enjoyable experience on whichever boat ride you choose.
Are you not a fan of boat cruises? This incredible glacial lake offers many other outdoor activities, including some of the best Interlaken hiking or cafe hopping around the entire region.
See Related: Most Beautiful Towns in Switzerland
3. Take a boat tour of Lake Brienz
Another great option for boat tours is Lake Brienz, Interlaken. This lake is known for its clear blue waters and stunning views. And like Lake Thun, the villages that line the shore are quite picturesque.
If you’re interested in learning more about the area’s history, consider taking a boat tour that includes a stop at the Giessbach Falls. This waterfall is one of the oldest tourist attractions in Switzerland and will surely be a highlight of your trip.
See Related: Most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland
4. Ride the Cogwheel Railway up to Jungfraujoch, the Highest Railway Station in Europe!
The Jungfraujoch railway is one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s easy to see why. The cogwheel railway up to Jungfraujoch is an exciting experience you won’t miss. The train takes you from Interlaken to the Jungfrau mountain range, and the views are stunning along the way.
You’ll need to transfer to several spots from Interlaken West Station, but it’s a wild ride to the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe. To get the most out of your visit, make it a full-day trip. Once you reach the top, you can explore the glaciers and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
5. Visit the otherworldly Trummelbach Falls
Address: Trümmelbach 236, 3824 Stechelberg, Switzerland
If you are looking for an incredible Interlaken day trip, visit Lauterbrunnen. The Trümmelbach Falls are some of Switzerland’s most unique and breathtaking natural wonders. Carved into the side of a mountain, the falls are a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls that flow into a creek known as the Trümmelbach.
This creek is one of the largest glacial runoff systems in the world, draining water from the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau glaciers. Every year, the Trümmelbach carries more than 20,000 tonnes of boulders down from the mountains. When full, the waterfalls transport up to 20,000 liters per second.
Visitors to the Trümmelbach Falls can take a tunnel-funicular up to the falls or hike up a staircase carved into the mountain. Once they reach the top, they can see the falls illuminated by special lights, highlighting their beauty.
The Trümmelbach feeds into the Weisse Lütschine, which flows north through the valley and the hamlet of Lauterbrunnen before reaching its sister river, the Schwarze Lütschine, at Zweilütschinen. There, the two rivers combine to form the Lütschine.
See Related: Most Beautiful Towns in Switzerland
6. Enjoy splendid vistas at the Harder Kulm Viewpoint
Address: Harder Kulm, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland
Harder Kulm is a great place to take in the views of the two lakes surrounding the city and get some fresh air. Harder Kulm is over 1,000 meters high and overlooks the villages of Interlaken and Unterseen and the two lakes of Therma-Turner See and Brizersee (Lake Brienz and Lake Thun).
The views are incredible. Take a trip to Harder Kulm no matter what time of day or night it is! The journey down the incline funicular is simple and fantastic for people of all ages.
Once you arrive at Harder Kulm, there are plenty of places to take pictures, buy souvenirs, and have a bite to eat before heading back down the mountain. Taking a trip to Harder Kulm is a must-do when visiting Interlaken.
Harder Kulm is an amazing getaway, but it may become clogged if everyone wants to go there simultaneously. It happens every year, especially during the summer when it’s peak season.
See Related: Best Hidden Gems in Switzerland
7. Take a Cable Car ride up to the summit of Mt. Pilatus
Address: Mount Pilatus, 6010 Alpnach, Switzerland
This is an adrenaline-pumping experience that you won’t want to miss if you’re looking for thrills. Mt. Pilatus was an out-of-world experience that is hard to describe.
The journey on the Golden Round Trip features a ride on the steepest cogwheel train in the world. You can take the easy route via the Golden Round Trip to the summit, or if you’re an experienced hiker, you can climb your way to the top.
If you like incredible mountain peak views, take the top of the Mt. Pilatus hiking trail for a one-of-a-kind experience—it’s the natural Swiss way.
Regardless of how you get to the top, you are bound to enjoy the journey, which includes hotels, bars, restaurants, and plenty of sweeping views of incredible scenery.
Mount Pilatus is close to Lucerne, so you’ll need a train ride, cogwheel, and cable car to get there, which will cost you a full-day trip experience. It’s so worth it if you want that entire experience – and Lucerne is one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland.
With a Swiss travel pass, it won’t cost you much more, as you’ll have the train to get you from this gorgeous lakeside town to another fantastic place to visit. With so many mountains, it’s hard to prioritize, but this trip is worth it.
See Related: Where to Stay in Lucerne
8. Visit nearby Lauterbrunnen
Staubbach Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Switzerland, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in the area. It is located in Lauterbrunnen Valley, home to 72 other waterfalls.
Staubbach Falls is often referred to as the valley’s signature waterfall, and it’s one of the most iconic features of the area.
The waterfall is 930 feet tall and fed by the River Staubbach, one of the three main rivers in the valley. The Staubbach flows down from the Grimmselwald forest and eventually joins the Aare River.
See Related: Day Trips from Lake Como to Switzerland
9. Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Traveling to Interlaken in the winter is a great way to enjoy the winter weather and hit the slopes! Interlaken is not a ski resort per se, but it is a lovely place to get some skiing or snowboarding done in winter. The Jungfrau Ski region is on the radar, comprising Grindelwald, First, Kleine Scheidegg, and Mürren-Schilthorn.
A little farther is Beatenberg-Niederhorn north of Interlaken, with steep slopes to welcome families or newcomers to skiing. Here on the north shore of Lake Thun, as well as in Spiez south, are cross-country tracks, many with views over the lake.
See Related: Things to Do in Zurich
10. Visit Hoheweg Street for Shopping and Dining
Hoheweg is the main street in Interlaken and is a great place to find souvenirs and try the local cuisine. Hoheweg is also known as the backbone of Interlaken, as it runs through the center of town. The street runs parallel to the Aare River, which flows from Lake Brienz into Lake Thun.
Walking down Hoheweg, you will pass by many high-end resorts, boutique bars, cafes, and some casinos. If you are looking for a more scenic route, Hoheweg also has a number of flower gardens that offer beautiful views of the Bernese Alps.
See Related: Best Hotels in Lucerne
11. Walk through the Old Town Center
If you’re looking to get a feel for the true atmosphere of Interlaken, one of the best things to do is take a walking tour of the Old Town. This is where you’ll find some of the most historic buildings in the town, as well as a number of quaint shops and cafes.
You can also get a great view of the mountains from here. You can wander around alone if you don’t have time for a walking tour. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy exploring all that Interlaken provides.
12. Visit the Interlaken Monastery and Abbey
Address: Schloss 1, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken Monastery was an Augustinian Canons convent in Interlaken from about 1133 until 1528. It was founded in the early 12th Century by Duke Berthold IV of Zähringen and is a national monument of great significance to Switzerland.
The first monks were brought here from Hauterive Abbey, near Fribourg. Interlaken became a pilgrimage center, and the monastery’s church was consecrated in 1134. In the following centuries, the monastery played an important role in Switzerland’s religious and political life.
Today, Interlaken Monastery is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can learn about its rich history and beautiful architecture.
See Related: Lake Lucerne Travel Guide
13. Heimwehfluh
Address: Heimwehfluh, 3800 Matten bei Interlaken, Switzerland
Heimwehfluh is a funicular cable car servicing passengers to the summit at Heimwehfluh, 662 meters above sea level. The Heimwehfluh Museum is at the top of the Heimwehfluh funicular, and ferries passengers to and from the summit. The trip takes about five minutes; you’ll find more than enough entertainment at the top.
There is a panoramic restaurant, a playground for kids, and even a 250-meter-long model railway. The Heimwehfluh funicular operates daily between March and April and is just a 7-minute walk from Interlaken West Train Station.
See Related: Most Scenic Road Trips in the World
14. Sample local cuisine at one of Interlaken’s superb Restaurants
Swiss cuisine is notoriously delicious, and Interlaken is no exception. You’ll find plenty of great food, from chocolate and fondue to roasted meats and fresh produce. If you love chocolate, you’ll need to hit the Funky Chocolate Club, which offers some of the best Swiss chocolate in town!
For something more filling, try one of the many great restaurants or something along Lake Brienz or Lake Thun, which offer incredible views.
While in town, consider going on a food tour or visiting many local small eateries for dinner in the Alps like no other. You’ll enjoy tasty sweets, savory snacks, local schnapps, beer, and wine while getting fabulous photos of your Interlaken adventure.
15. Explore St. Beatus Caves
Address: Staatsstrasse 30, 3800 Sundlauenen, Switzerland
The St. Beatus Caves are a series of caves in Beatenberg, Switzerland, and are an easy trip from the Interlaken city center via bus. Ensure you have your Swiss Travel Pass, and getting there is free.
The caves are known for their natural beauty and their historical significance. The tale of the cave is centered on St. Beatus, a monk who lived around 100 AD and chose the cave to establish his devout heritage.
Meanwhile, in the mountain cave, he discovered that a horrible dragon was already living there. The dragon had flames shooting from his burning eyes – creepy stuff!
Today, St. Beatus Caves are open to the public. They feature a kilometer-long walkway and several chambers with concretions, dark holes, and underground waterfalls.
The caves are located on the side of a mountain and are accessible by tunnels and stairways. A series of limestone formations form the caves, containing various interesting features, including stalactites and stalagmites.
The St. Beatus Caves are a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The caves are open to the public year-round, and there is a small admission fee, which includes entrance to a small cave museum.
These caves are a must-see for anyone traveling to Switzerland and offer a unique look at some of the country’s most impressive natural formations.
See Related: Minimalist Travel Accessories
16. Go on an Interlaken Pub Crawl
Interlaken is known for its nightlife; there’s no better way to experience it than on a pub crawl. With a guide, you’ll visit four different watering holes, each with its specialty.
You can choose from a variety of tequilas at one spot or find the largest assortment of drinks at another. You’ll also get a free shot and a special offer at each place you visit!
See Related: How to Find Mistake Fares
17. Stroll around neighboring Unterseen
Address: Unterseen, 3800, Switzerland
Unterseen is a great option if you’re looking for a quieter, less touristic town near Interlaken in the Bernese Alps. It’s across a railway track from Interlaken West Train Station (Interlaken Ost Railway Station), so you’d hardly know it was a different town!
It’s right near Interlaken and is only separated by the Aare River. Take photos of the picturesque wooden bridges separating these two towns.
This is a quaint town largely dominated by the main square, which features a rustic church tower, an old city hall, and a museum about tourism development and the area’s history.
Unterseen is also home to a great restaurant that was once the city hall – it’s been serving up food to cattle drivers (and others) since the 1500s!
See Related: Best Winter Travel Clothes
18. Check out nearby Iseltwald
Address: Iseltwald, 3807, Switzerland
Iseltwald is a small town located in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, on a mountain lake. The town is situated on the banks of the Isel River and is known for its picturesque landscapes and stunning mountain views.
This is a popular destination for tourists who enjoy its natural attractions, including hiking and skiing in the winter. The town is also home to a number of historical buildings and monuments, making it an interesting place to explore if you’re a history buff.
When the weather is good in the summer, you can swim around the lake or hire a yacht or raft and enjoy the scenery. There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore the mountains.
Iseltwald is a great place to go skiing or snowboarding in the winter. Several ski resorts are nearby, so you can find one that suits your experience level.
See Related: Most Famous Landmarks in Switzerland
19. Go Paragliding around the Bernese Alps
Paragliding is necessary if you’re in Interlaken and seeking something to quicken your pulse! You’ll be able to soar high above the stunning Swiss landscape and take in views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. With experienced instructors, you can be sure you’ll be in safe hands as you enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
20. Go Bungee Jumping in Interlaken
If you’re looking for another adrenaline rush while traveling in Switzerland, bungee jumping off the bridge at the Interlaken Outdoor Center is definitely worth considering.
At a height of nearly 200 feet, it’s one of the highest bungee jumps in Europe. The views of the Bernese Alps from the bridge are stunning.
Of course, this isn’t for everyone. It requires a certain amount of physical fitness and mental toughness. But if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with an experience you’ll never forget!
Plus, the Interlaken Outdoor Center staff are some of the most experienced bungee jumpers in the world, so you can rest assured that you’ll be in good hands.
See Related: The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List
21. Enjoy libations at the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
Address: Höheweg 41, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland
The Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is one of the most luxurious hotels in Interlaken. Its lobby bar is perfect for enjoying tea or a cheeky cocktail while viewing the stunning Swiss Alps.
If you’re looking for a truly special experience, the hotel also offers a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. So whether you’re looking to relax or celebrate a special occasion, the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to do it.
22. Explore Thun Castle
Address: Schlossberg 1, 3600 Thun, Switzerland
Thun Castle is a must-see for those passionate about history visiting Interlaken. This well-preserved castle dates back to the 12th Century and was once the seat of the powerful Counts of Thun. The castle grounds also have a beautiful garden perfect for a stroll.
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the resident peacocks! Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to step back in time and explore one of Switzerland’s most fascinating historical landmarks.
See Related: Best Day to Book Flights
23. Take in the whole Jungfrau region at Grindelwald
If you are journeying to Jungfraujoch, you’ll end up in Grindelwald for a bit – but make it a point to stay there for a while. The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon, which features both the Upper and Lower Grindelwald Glaciers, makes up the backdrop of the Grindelwald town center and is unlike anything on this planet.
It’s an actual Swiss skyline that I bet you are looking for. Your Interlaken day trip should rightfully turn into a weekend getaway. During our trip to Interlaken, I remember leaving Grindelwald saying… “we should have stayed here.”
During your visit to the Top of Europe, aka Jungfraujoch, make it a point to take in the Aletsch Glacier from the Sphinx Terrace. The Aletsch Glacier is the longest in the Alps, and from this vantage point, you’ll be able to see how the glacier extends to Italy, Germany, and France.
In addition, at Jungfraujoch, take a moment to enjoy the indoor ice palace featuring some incredible ice sculptures and ice caves. Also, step outside to take in the views and fresh mountain air.
The Jungfrau region is one of the world’s most impressive ecosystems and ranges of mountains. There are cable car rides to access it, and it’s near enough to Interlaken, making it an easy day trip destination.
If you are not a fan of heights or outdoor adventures, you will love the town center of Grindelwald. It’s a quaint and lovely town with an old-world feel.
24. Climb the mighty Eiger
The Eiger is one of the most iconic mountains in Switzerland and one of the most popular climbing destinations in the world. Located just outside of Interlaken, the Eiger offers a variety of challenging routes for climbers of all levels.
So, whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a beginner looking to test your skills, the Eiger is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. Just be sure to come prepared with the proper gear and equipment, and be aware of the risks involved before embarking on your climb.
25. Relax in the Höhe Matteo
Höhe Matte is a large park in Interlaken with an excellent view over the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks and valleys in the Jungfrau regions. It’s a popular place to fly for paragliders in the summer, and you can often see them landing there.
Höhe Matte is an excellent location in Interlaken where you can watch Paraglider return to Earth. Other traveling amenities, such as a small cafe and public restroom, are nearby. Höhe Matte is free to the public and open year-round, so you can always enjoy the wonderful view.
See Related: Beautiful Gardens in Europe to Visit
26. Admire Swiss wildlife at Weissenau Nature Reserve
Address: Weissenaustrasse, 3800 Unterseen, Switzerland
Weissenau Nature Reserve is a beautiful and peaceful spot on the eastern side of Lake Thun, just beyond Unterseen. The reserve has extensive wetland areas with magnificent views of Eiger Mönch and Jungfrau and is home to various bird and plant life.
The reserve has several historical buildings dating from the 1600s that you can explore, as well as a wood pathway that leads down to the lake. If the weather is warm, you can dip in the lake or enjoy the views. Either way, Weissenau is sure to provide a memorable experience.
27. Summit Schilthorn Mountain
Address: Schilthorn, 3826 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Schilthorn Mountain is home to one of the first revolving restaurants on the planet, Piz Gloria – the star of the 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The summit (2,970 m) can be reached from Interlaken within about 90 minutes by bus or via cableway.
Schilthorn is open to the public all year round except during an occasional maintenance period. Schilthorn is a great place to get away from it all and experience some of the best views in the world.
The summit offers 360-degree views of nearly 30 mountain peaks, including the Matterhorn and Eiger. Visitors may also depart from Birg Intermediate Station, which has glass-floor viewing terraces, or go on 200-meter thrill walks around the cliff edge. The station also has a number of awesome James Bond-themed attractions.
See Related: Schönbrunn Palace Tour
28. Take a trip to Spiez
Spiez is a picturesque village on the South Coast of Lake Thun, covered with vineyards. It is easily accessible by car, ferry, or boat, and is an approximate 15-minute drive from Interlaken West.
Despite its height, Spiez is dominated by the strong square keep of the Spiez Castle (or Schloss Spiez). The castle’s initial construction began in the 13th Century, but the current structures were laid down in 1603.
Spiez is a beautiful place to visit, with an ancient Romanesque church, Schlosskirche Spiez. The church has information on the succession of royal families who owned the castle during both Kingdoms of Burgundy.
Tours in Interlaken
Looking for an adrenaline-pumping skydiving experience? Then look no further than the Interlaken Helicopter Skydiving 2-Hour Experience. You'll enjoy a free fall from the helicopter while admiring the stunning mountain scenery.
Looking to explore the stunning Interlaken countryside at a leisurely pace? Then this 3-hour ebike tour is perfect for you! You'll hop on an easy-to-ride electric bike and follow your guide through beautiful lakesides, pastures, and villages.
Looking for something special to do during your stay in Milan? Why not take a day trip to the beautiful Swiss Alps? You'll ride aboard the Green Train of the Alps, crossing Lake Thun on a cruise boat while admiring the stunning scenery. You'll also have time to explore the enchanting village of Interlaken at your own pace. Your friendly and knowledgeable English-speaking tour leader will be there to provide commentary and answer any questions you may have.
What to Know Before You Visit Interlaken
If you’re visiting Interlaken, you may need to know it’s not a huge city. The best sights can be seen in less than an hour, so be prepared for a day trip or two if you plan on an extended stay in the area.
The other thing to note here is that you have Lake Thun and Lake Brienz to work with, so if you love water sports, you’ll be in good hands staying near Interlaken to make the most of your trip.
During your trip, many attractions in Interlaken can be easily reached by foot, car, bus, or train. Despite its modest size, there are many places to stay in and around Interlaken, which can be overwhelming. Shop around and see what suits your plans, taste, and budget.
Subscribe to our free travel newsletter, and we’ll send you the best tips, tricks, and advice for your next trip to your next bucket list destination. You’ll be able to explore the town like a pro and make the most of your time in this charming Swiss town.
See Related: Things to Do in Zermatt
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Interlaken?
The best time to visit Interlaken is between June and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, remember that peak tourist season falls during July and August, so expect large crowds and higher prices.
What are some of the most popular things to do in Interlaken?
Some of Interlaken’s most popular activities include hiking, taking a cruise on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, riding the Jungfraubahn railway up to Jungfraujoch, and shopping or dining in the town center.
What are some of the underrated things to do in Interlaken?
In addition to the more popular activities, there are plenty of less well-known things to do in Interlaken. These include visiting the local museums and temples, exploring the old town, or taking a cable car ride up to Harder Kulm for stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Lake Brienz, and Lake Thun.
Related Resources
Please sign in to leave a comment.