Welcome to Interlaken, a picturesque Swiss Village nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This Swiss village invites you on an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and the charm of alpine towns. Let’s explore the 7 best things to do in Interlaken, ensuring your visit is nothing short of magical.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a culture buff, Interlaken offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences that cater to every taste and interest. From heart-pounding outdoor activities to strolls through charming streets, Interlaken beckons travelers from around the globe to explore its beauty and charm.
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Getting to Interlaken:
The nearest airports are Zurich and Geneva, with efficient train connections to Interlaken. The scenic train journey itself is an experience, offering glimpses of Switzerland’s picturesque countryside. Trains can be a great option if you don’t want any responsibility, but we highly recommend renting a car in Switzerland, especially if you have a group of 3 or more. The trains in Switzerland are crazy expensive, so you will save money renting a car, while having the freedom to go anywhere you’d like. We rented a car from the Zurich airport and it was a 90-minute drive to Interlaken.
Best Things to do in Interlaken:
1. Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Begin your Interlaken journey by starting with a visit to Jungfraujoch, often hailed as the “Top of Europe.” While it’s technically not in Interlaken, think of the village as an exciting prelude to your exploration. The journey itself is a visual treat, winding through stunning landscapes that set the stage for the alpine wonders awaiting you. When you arrive, you’ll be at an insanely high elevation of 11,362 feet! Arriving at Jungfraujoch, you’re greeted by a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and the opportunity to delve into the fascinating Ice Palace, an underground ice cave. Within the Ice Palace are also a few cool photo opps! After the Ice Palace, venture outside to witness the Aletsch Glacier. Atop, at the Jungfraujoch is also a Lindt Chocolate Shop to stock up on all your favorite chocolates! It’s pretty random having it up there, but it was still cool and tasty!
Though geographically a detour, Jungfraujoch introduces you to Swiss mountain charm, providing a taste of the natural wonders that characterize Interlaken. Also, it’s really cool because you’re at one of the highest peaks in all of Europe! Jungfraujoch is a bucket list destination, so consider adding it to your Interlaken itinerary.
2. Visit Harder Kulm
Within the heart of Interlaken, begin your journey to the Harder Kulm by taking the Harderbahn funicular. At an elevation of 1,322 meters, Harder Kulm offers an incredible view of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. The viewing platform, presenting the majestic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, provides a breathtaking panorama. The Two Lakes Bridge gives an incredible view, but also gives an adrenaline rush as there is nothing beneath you! Elevating the experience further is the Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant, which offers traditional Swiss Food such as Burgers and Cheese Fondue! While eating, a Swiss man was playing the Alphorn, which really made the experience even more surreal to remind you that you’re in Switzerland. We highly recommend the Harder Kulm at least once on your Interlaken trip!
3. Take a day trip to Grindelwald
Head on a seamless day trip from Interlaken to Grindelwald, where adventure and breathtaking landscapes await. You can either get there by train or car in less than 30 minutes and the views on your journey are beautiful! As you arrive in Grindelwald, gear up for an exhilarating experience at Grindelwald First. To get to Grindelwald First, you will need to take a gondola ride up to it, which takes you to an elevation of 7,165 feet! Grindelwald First offers an array of activities. One of the best things to do in Grindelwald was riding down the mountain on a trotti bike! Imagine coasting through the alpine meadows on a trotti bike, with breathtaking mountain views and the sound of cowbells. If you’re up for the ultimate rush, the First Flyer invites you to soar above the valleys on a zip line with friends and family, catching awe-inspiring glimpses of the surrounding peaks. You can also take a beautiful hike to Bachalpsee or walk on the First Cliff Walk! Our day in Grindelwald was a highlight for not only our trip to Interlaken, but our entire lives.
4. Paragliding
Experience the exhilarating freedom of paragliding in Interlaken, where the Swiss Alps truly become your playground. As you soar through the crisp mountain air, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of the majestic landscapes below – a panorama that includes the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The thrill of gliding above the lakes and charming villages creates a sense of freedom and fun. The expert tandem paragliding instructors ensure a safe and unforgettable journey, allowing you to fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply seeking a unique perspective of the stunning Swiss scenery, paragliding in Interlaken promises an adventure to all of those who have the courage to take flight!
5. Boat cruise on Lake Thun
Hop on board for a chill boat cruise on Lake Thun. The boat gently glides over the calm waters, treating you to laid-back vibes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Take your pick – either soak up the sun on the deck or relax inside with panoramic windows framing the alpine scenery. Passing by charming villages and reflecting peaks, it’s a low-key, scenic journey that lets you unwind and enjoy the easygoing beauty of Switzerland. Something that also impressed us was the unique turquoise color of the water in both Lake Thun and Brienz. It was so beautiful and we have never seen anything like it.
6. Chocolate Making Class
Head over to The Funky Chocolate Club in Interlaken, a cool spot for chocolate lovers looking to get hands-on with their sweet tooth cravings! This laid-back experience lets you play chocolatier for a day, creating your own mouth watering Swiss chocolates. The workshop is led by friendly guides who make sure it’s as fun as it is delicious. You’ll dive into the world of chocolate-making, from picking out top-notch ingredients to designing and decorating your treats. The vibe is relaxed, the chocolate is top-notch, and you get to take home your tasty creations – a sweet souvenir from your time in Interlaken. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves a good, fun-filled chocolate adventure.
7. Stroll through the Village of Interlaken
Taking a stroll through the village of Interlaken is a casual and relaxing experience. You’ve got cozy little shops and cafés, and the whole village looks beautiful against the stunning Swiss Alps backdrop. Smells of chocolate and freshly baked goodies in the air lure you in one of their many bakeries for a treat. We also recommend going into various cheese shops and trying a few samples to take home! The streets are lined with flowers, and you might catch a hint of an alpine horn playing in the distance. While we were there they also had a market set up of local vendors selling food, souvenirs, handmade crafts, and much more! It’s a laid-back experience, and the locals are very friendly. Walking around Interlaken feels like a storybook and gives off a small town vibe that we just love!
More Day Trip Ideas
Depending on how much time you have in Interlaken, we have a few other easy day trips! If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful places on Earth, head over to Lauterbrunnen and visit the iconic Staubbach Falls. The village lies in a valley of 72 waterfalls, so it truly is a beautiful place. For the best views of the valley, take a short train ride up to Wengen, which offers the best views in all of Switzerland! If you’re looking for a beautiful, laid-back village, we also recommend Iseltwald! Sit on a bench adjacent to Iseltwald castle and take in the beautiful views of the turquoise waters and towering mountains. There’s also a few swans that swim around, which makes the experience even more magical!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):
When is the Best Time to Visit Interlaken?
Interlaken is captivating throughout the year, but consider visiting in spring or summer for outdoor activities. Winter brings a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets.
What are the Must-Try Swiss Dishes?
Indulge in Swiss classics such as fondue, raclette, and rösti. Don’t forget to try Swiss chocolate and local cheeses!
How do you get around Interlaken?
Navigating Interlaken is easy, with its compact size allowing for exploration on foot. Public transportation, including buses and boats, offers convenience for longer distances. There’s also ample parking if you drive a car.
Should I book attractions in advance or be spontaneous? Booking Attractions: Plan or Spontaneity?
While some attractions allow spontaneous visits, consider booking in advance for popular sites like Jungfraujoch to skip the lines and ensure a seamless experience.
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Author Bio:
This is a guest post by Dylan and Maddy from Zutell Travels, a travel-loving couple from Buffalo, NY, always on the lookout for new adventures. When we’re not exploring, we’re hanging out with our pups, Cali and Winston, or indulging our Harry Potter obsession. Join us on our journey as we share stories from the road and inspire others to embark on their own adventures. Thanks for joining us!
