✦ Quick answer
Interlaken is the main base for exploring Switzerland's Bernese Oberland, set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz beneath the Jungfrau massif. Come for paragliding, lake cruises, and rail day trips to Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald, and eat hearty Swiss food like cheese fondue, rosti, and raclette. Stay near Interlaken Ost station or along the Hoheweg for the easiest access to trains, lakes, and the mountains.
Interlaken sits in a flat green valley between two lakes, Thun and Brienz, with the snow-capped trio of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau filling the horizon to the south. The name literally means 'between the lakes,' and the town has spent more than 150 years as the gateway to the high Alps, ever since Victorian tourists arrived by paddle steamer and railway to gawk at the Jungfrau from the lawns of the Hoheweg.
Today it is Switzerland's adventure capital. Paragliders drift down over the rooftops most afternoons, rafts run the glacial Lutschine, and the world's highest railway station climbs to Jungfraujoch at 3,454 meters. But it is also a comfortable, walkable base: two train stations, lakeside promenades, and a parade of Swiss watch shops and chocolate windows along the main drag.
Most travelers use Interlaken as a launchpad for the storybook villages above it, Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Wengen, and Murren, then come back down to a fondue dinner and a lakeside stroll. Two or three days here is enough to scratch the surface; a week barely exhausts the day trips.
Best time to visit
June through September is peak season, with long days, running mountain railways, and reliable hiking weather; July and August are busiest and priciest, so book lodging well ahead. Late May, early June, and September are the sweet spot: green valleys, fewer crowds, and most lifts open. Winter (December to March) shifts the focus to skiing in Grindelwald and Wengen, with Interlaken itself quiet and snow-dusted. Note that the highest peaks can be cloud-covered any time, so build in a flexible day to catch a clear Jungfraujoch run.
Getting around
Most visitors arrive by train: Interlaken is roughly two hours from Zurich Airport and about three from Geneva, with easy connections via Bern or Spiez. The town has two stations, Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost, and Ost is the hub for trains into the mountains and boats on Lake Brienz. The center is small and flat, so walking covers most of it, and the local bus is free with a guest card from your hotel. Skip a rental car; trains, boats, and cable cars reach almost everything, and a Swiss Travel Pass or regional Berner Oberland Pass often pays off.
✦ Where to stay
Neighborhoods & hotels
Hoheweg and the town centerThe main promenade between the two stations, lined with hotels, watch shops, and restaurants, with the Jungfrau framed across the Hohematte lawn. Best for first-timers who want everything walkable and the classic Interlaken view.
Interlaken Ost (Eastern end)Around the eastern station, the launch point for trains to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch and boats on Lake Brienz. Ideal if you plan daily mountain excursions and want to roll out of bed onto a train.
UnterseenThe quieter old-town side across the Aare river, with a medieval square, local cafes, and a more residential feel. Suits travelers who want character and value a short walk from the action.
Bonigen and the Lake Brienz shoreA calm lakeside village just east of town, with turquoise water and a slower pace. Good for families and anyone prioritizing swimming, kayaking, and lake views over nightlife.
Hotel Interlakenmidrange Google
One of the oldest hotels in town, near Interlaken Ost station and the Hohematte lawn, with updated rooms and a well-regarded restaurant. A reliable, characterful mid-range base within walking distance of trains and boats.
Hotel Blumemidrange Google
A family-run hotel in the center with classic Swiss styling and a solid breakfast, walkable to both the Hoheweg and Unterseen. Good value for the location and a comfortable choice for couples and solo travelers.
Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spaluxury Google
The grande dame of Interlaken, a 19th-century landmark on the Hoheweg with a vast spa, multiple restaurants, and direct Jungfrau views. The iconic splurge if you want old-world Swiss luxury at the center of town.
Vacation rentals in Interlakenfamily friendly
Apartments and chalets around Interlaken and the lake villages suit families and groups who want a kitchen and more space. Book early for summer, when the best-located units go fast.
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✦ Eat & drink
Best Coffee in Interlaken
Swiss coffee culture leans toward strong espresso and long, lake-view sit-downs. These spots do both.
Velo Cafe Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
A relaxed bike-themed cafe near the center pouring proper espresso and flat whites, with homemade cakes and a young, local crowd. A good morning stop before catching a train, with coffee around 4-5 CHF. Friendly to laptops and lingering.
Cafe De Paris (Schuh) Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
A historic confiserie and cafe on the Hoheweg with a terrace facing the Jungfrau, open since the 19th century. Come for coffee and a slice of Swiss patisserie or house-made chocolate; it leans touristy but the view and pastries deliver. Expect to pay a premium for the location.
Brasserie 17 Google
A casual all-day spot known locally as much for ribs as for its coffee and relaxed bar vibe. Handy for an afternoon caffeine break with a sunny terrace. Espresso drinks run 4-5 CHF.
✦ Eat & drink
Where to Eat Breakfast & Brunch
Little Thai (and bakeries along Hoheweg) Google
Many travelers fuel up at hotel buffets, but for a quick morning bite the bakeries along the Hoheweg sell fresh Gipfeli (Swiss croissants), nussgipfel, and bircher muesli. Grab one with a coffee for under 10 CHF and eat on the Hohematte lawn with the mountains in front of you.
Sapori Cafe Bar Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
A small, friendly spot serving generous breakfast plates, fresh juices, and good espresso in a casual setting. A solid sit-down option if your hotel rate skips breakfast. Plates run roughly 12-20 CHF.
Goldener Anker Google
Closed Mondays & Tuesdays
Opening hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 2:00 - 11:30 PM
- Thursday: 2:00 - 11:30 PM
- Friday: 2:00 PM - 12:30 AM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM - 12:30 AM
- Sunday: 2:00 - 11:30 PM
A long-running Unterseen institution that does brunch-style plates and hearty fare in an old-school pub setting. More a place for a leisurely late morning than a quick grab-and-go. Expect rustic Swiss cooking and a local crowd.
✦ Eat & drink
Best Restaurants in Interlaken
This is fondue, rosti, and raclette country, with a few international options for variety. Reserve on summer evenings.
Restaurant Taverne (Hotel Interlaken) Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 7:00 - 11:00 AM, 2:00 - 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 - 11:00 AM, 4:00 - 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 - 11:00 AM, 2:00 - 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 - 11:00 AM, 2:00 - 11:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 - 11:00 AM, 2:00 - 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 - 11:00 AM, 2:00 - 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 - 11:00 AM, 2:00 - 11:00 PM
A warm, wood-lined dining room serving polished Swiss classics: cheese fondue, rosti, and seasonal local dishes. One of the more reliable sit-down dinners in the center, with mains around 28-45 CHF. Book ahead in high season.
Husi Bierhaus Google
Closed Tuesdays
Opening hours
- Monday: 1:30 - 11:30 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 1:30 - 11:30 PM
- Thursday: 1:30 - 11:30 PM
- Friday: 12:30 PM - 12:30 AM
- Saturday: 12:30 PM - 12:30 AM
- Sunday: 12:30 - 11:30 PM
A lively beer hall and grill popular with adventure-sports crowds, doing burgers, ribs, and Swiss comfort food alongside a long beer list. Good for a casual, hearty dinner after a day on the river. Mains around 22-35 CHF.
Schuh Restaurant Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
The dinner counterpart to the famous confiserie, with a Jungfrau-facing terrace and classic Swiss and international plates. Touristy but dependable, and the view at sunset is hard to beat. Mains run 30-45 CHF.
Sapori Restaurant Google
Closed Sundays
Opening hours
- Monday: 4:00 - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
A friendly Italian spot for wood-fired pizza and pasta when you need a break from cheese and potatoes. Reliable, well-priced, and good for families. Pizzas around 18-26 CHF.
✦ Top experiences
Top Things to Do in Interlaken
Interlaken is built for the outdoors. These are the experiences worth your time and money, from gentle to heart-in-throat.
Tandem Paragliding over Interlaken
The signature Interlaken experience: launch from Beatenberg on rising thermals and float over town and the two lakes with the Jungfrau as backdrop. Flights last roughly 10-20 minutes airborne with about 1.5 hours total, and no experience is needed since a certified pilot does the flying. Expect to pay from around $240 per person.
Tandem Paragliding with Transport Included
Same exhilarating flight from Beatenberg with hotel-area transport included, ideal if you want logistics handled. Pilots are highly experienced and the alpine scenery is the same showstopper. From about $240 per person.
Kayak Tour on Turquoise Lake Brienz
Paddle the famously turquoise glacial water of Lake Brienz past cliffs, waterfalls, and forested shores on a guided tour suited to all skill levels. A calmer, postcard-perfect alternative to the adrenaline sports. From around $158.
Whitewater Rafting the Lutschine
The glacial Lutschine delivers continuous class III-IV rapids straight off the mountains below the Eiger, one of the best whitewater runs in the Alps. Wetsuits and guides provided; expect a wet, fast, exhilarating couple of hours. From about $194.
Canyoning in the Swiss Alps
Rappel waterfalls, jump into pools, and slide through narrow gorges on a guided canyoning trip; the local OUTDOOR canyon is a great half-day introduction, while the Grimsel trip ups the ante with a 50m abseil. From around $194, with all gear included.
Jetboat Interlaken
A fast, funny, spin-heavy ride on the lake with a captain who mixes safety talk with showmanship. A short, family-friendly adrenaline hit that doesn't require getting soaked head to toe. From about $150.
Bungy Jump from Stockhorn
One of the world's more dramatic bungy sites: you ride a gondola 134m up a mountain and leap from the open doorway over an alpine lake. Strictly for thrill-seekers. From around $302.
Fondue Cooking Class & Cheese Workshop
Learn the history and technique of Swiss cheese fondue, then cook and eat your own beside one of the country's biggest fondue pots. A fun rainy-day or evening activity, and a tasty introduction to Switzerland's national dish. From about $176.
✦ Top experiences
Sights & Viewpoints
Harder Kulm Google
Interlaken's local mountain, reached by a steep funicular in about 10 minutes from near Interlaken Ost. The 'Two Lakes Bridge' viewing platform at 1,322m delivers the classic photo of both lakes and the Jungfrau trio. Round-trip funicular runs roughly 38 CHF, less with rail passes; there is a restaurant at the top.
Hohematte and the Hoheweg Google
Opening hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
The wide green meadow at the heart of town, kept open since the 19th century so the Jungfrau view stays unobstructed. Watch paragliders land here in the afternoons and stroll the promenade past grand hotels and casino gardens. Free and central.
St. Beatus Caves Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
A network of dramatic caves and underground waterfalls in the cliffs above Lake Thun, a short bus or boat ride from town. Guided walkways lead past illuminated chambers and rushing water. Combine it with a lake cruise; entry is around 18 CHF.
Unterseen Old Town Google
Closed Mondays, Saturdays & Sundays
Opening hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 - 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 - 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 - 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 - 6:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
The medieval quarter across the Aare, with a cobbled square, a 17th-century church, and the timber houses that predate Interlaken's tourist boom. A quiet, photogenic stroll away from the souvenir shops. Free to wander.
✦ Beyond the city
Day Trips Worth Taking
The real magic is in the villages and peaks above Interlaken. Buy a regional pass if you plan several of these.
Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe
The bucket-list rail journey to the highest train station in Europe at 3,454m, with an ice palace, glacier views, and snow year-round. The full trip from Interlaken takes most of a day; guided coach-and-train options handle the logistics. Pricey at around $347, so pick a clear day for the views.
Lauterbrunnen & Murren Small-Group Tour
Lauterbrunnen is the valley of 72 waterfalls, with the Staubbach Falls tumbling beside cliff-edge villages. This small-group tour pairs the valley with a cable-car ride up to car-free Murren for jaw-dropping Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau views. From around $327.
Lauterbrunnen & Trummelbach E-Bike Tour with Picnic
A six-hour guided e-bike ride through the Lauterbrunnen Valley to the thundering Trummelbach Falls, the glacier waterfalls hidden inside the mountain, finished with a Swiss picnic. A scenic, active way to see the valley at your own pace. From about $327.
Beatus Caves, Panorama Bridge & Lake Thun Cruise
A small-group loop combining the Beatus Caves, the dramatic Sigriswil suspension bridge, the Blausee nature park, and a Lake Thun cruise. A varied, gentle day mixing scenery and light walking. From around $357.
Lake Thun & Lake Brienz Cruise Day Pass
A flexible day pass to hop the paddle steamers and boats across both lakes, stopping at lakeside villages and castles. A relaxed, low-cost way to see the region from the water. From about $105 for second class.
Interlaken Valley E-Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Castles
A guided ride around the valley floor past rivers, both lakes, woodlands, and two medieval castles, with an easygoing pace suited to most fitness levels. A good half-day way to orient yourself before bigger excursions. From around $150.
✦ Good to know
Before you visit
Getting aroundThe town is walkable and the local bus is free with the guest card your hotel issues at check-in. Use Interlaken Ost station for mountain trains and Lake Brienz boats, and Interlaken West for Lake Thun and Bern connections.
MoneySwitzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF), and it is expensive: budget accordingly. Cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but carry a little cash for small cafes, mountain huts, and the occasional cash-only spot.
Rail passesIf you plan multiple mountain trips, a Swiss Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass can save real money and includes discounts on the Jungfrau railways. Compare the cost against your planned excursions before buying.
Weather and timingHigh peaks like Jungfraujoch can be socked in with cloud at any time. Keep your big-mountain day flexible and check the live webcams before committing to the expensive ticket.
LanguageThis is German-speaking Switzerland (Swiss German locally, standard German in writing), but English is widely spoken in tourism. A simple 'Gruezi' (hello) goes a long way.
TippingService is included by law, so tipping is modest: round up the bill or leave a few francs for good service. No 15-20 percent expectation here.
Power & SIMSwitzerland uses the Type J plug at 230V, slightly different from the standard Europlug, so bring an adapter. Prepaid SIMs and eSIMs from Swisscom, Salt, or Sunrise give good alpine coverage.
✦ Before you go
Plan-ahead checklist
Reserve summer accommodation in Interlaken early; July and August book out and prices climb. book 2-4 months ahead
Buy Jungfraujoch tickets ahead and pick a clear-weather day, as the trip is long and pricey. book a few days ahead
Book paragliding and rafting in advance for peak season; popular slots and good-weather windows fill fast. book 1-2 weeks ahead
Decide on a Swiss Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass before you arrive if you plan several mountain trips.
Check whether your hotel rate includes breakfast and the free guest card for local buses.
Interlaken packs a lifetime of alpine bucket-list moments into one walkable valley: float down on a paraglider, ride a train into the clouds at Jungfraujoch, and end the day with fondue and two lakes glowing at sunset. Whether you come for adrenaline or just the views, this is the easiest place to fall for the Swiss Alps. Start planning, and save room for the chocolate.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Interlaken?
Two to three days is enough to enjoy the town, do one adventure activity, and take a major day trip like Jungfraujoch or Lauterbrunnen. With four or more days you can add lake cruises, more villages, and serious hiking without feeling rushed.
Where should I stay in Interlaken?
First-timers do best along the central Hoheweg or near Interlaken Ost station, which puts trains, boats, and the Jungfrau view within walking distance. Unterseen is quieter and more characterful, while the Lake Brienz shore suits families who want swimming and calm.
Is Interlaken expensive?
Yes, Interlaken is expensive even by Swiss standards, with high prices for hotels, restaurants, and mountain railways. You can save by self-catering, using regional rail passes, and eating at casual spots away from the main promenade.
What is Interlaken known for?
Interlaken is Switzerland's adventure capital, famous for tandem paragliding, canyoning, and rafting, and as the gateway to Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald. It sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz with classic views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau.
Is Interlaken worth visiting?
Absolutely, especially if you want both adrenaline sports and easy access to some of the most dramatic alpine scenery in Europe. Even non-adventurers enjoy the lake cruises, the Harder Kulm viewpoint, and the storybook villages a short train ride away.
How do you get to Jungfraujoch from Interlaken?
Take the train from Interlaken Ost via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen and connect to the Jungfrau Railway, or join a guided day trip that handles transfers. The full round trip takes most of a day, so start early and go on a clear day for the views.
Top-Rated Places to Eat, See & Stay
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