Top 28 Activities in Interlaken for an Unforgettable 2025

Best Things To Do In Interlaken

Interlaken is a hub for outdoor excitement. If you seek biking, Alpine climbing, rafting, paragliding, or indulgences of cheese and chocolate, you will feel right at home. The town may not boast many traditional landmarks, but it indeed offers countless activities that guarantee an unforgettable trip.

Best of Interlaken Quick Guide

• Must See: Jungfraujoch, Mount Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Thun Castle, Lauterbrunnen Valley, Lake Brienz, Harder Kulm
• Fun To Do: Paragliding, Rafting, Canyoning, Boat rides
• Must Try Foods: Fondue, Raclette, Rosti, Chocolate.

1. Walking Tour of the Town

First and foremost, consider booking a walking tour of Interlaken to familiarize yourself with this beautiful Swiss town. Guided tours typically span around 2 hours, with longer options that include a visit to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s iconic mountain.

A classic walking tour will guide you past the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel, through Hohematte Park, up to Interlaken Castle, and over the river into Unterseen. Local guides share fascinating stories about the town’s best landmarks and recommend favorite eateries.

Practical Information: Walking tours of Interlaken take approximately 1-2 hours.

2. Eat Copious Amounts of Cheese

Switzerland is renowned for its delicious cheeses, making a visit to Interlaken a fantastic opportunity to indulge. Enjoy cheese at every meal, from breakfasts to fondue cruises, showcasing the Swiss dedication to their dairy delights.

Local restaurants abound, serving all the staples of Swiss cuisine. Fondue is particularly noteworthy—consider starting your culinary exploration here. Dip toasted bread into bubbling, melted cheese while sipping on a dry white wine; it’s a culinary dream come true.

For the hands-on experience, participate in a fondue workshop at Fondue Villa in Unterseen. You’ll learn to make Switzerland’s national dish, and of course, savor the final product.

Practical Information: Fondue is usually shared, costing approximately 30-40 CHF per person, with cooking class fees around 99 CHF.

3. Stroll Around Grindelwald

Grindelwald, a picturesque village about 40 minutes from Interlaken, is easily reached by direct trains. In winter, this village transforms into a beloved ski resort, boasting luxury hotels and a vibrant après-ski scene, while also serving as a departure point for numerous hikes, with trails leading to First and Eiger.

Furthermore, trains to Jungfraujoch depart from here. It’s worthwhile to spare a couple of hours exploring Grindelwald after your mountain excursions. The village serves as a key base for winter skiers, with hundreds of kilometers of ski pistes in the Jungfrau Ski Region.

Practical Information: Grindelwald is a 40-minute train ride from Interlaken, with tickets priced around 11 CHF.

4. See The Waterfalls In The Lauterbrunnen Valley

With 72 waterfalls, the Lauterbrunnen Valley is famously known as the Valley of Waterfalls. Board a train at Interlaken, and 20 minutes later, you will arrive at Lauterbrunnen, commencing your exploration. Staubbach Fall, one of the valley’s most notable waterfalls, cascades dramatically down cliffs, visible from the train station.

Walking from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg takes just over an hour, passing many waterfalls, including the enchanting Trummelbachfalle—a cave waterfall system worth the detour. Buses are available for your return trip.

Insider Tip: The Staubbach Waterfall is most mesmerizing shortly after rain.

Practical Information: Lauterbrunnen is a 20-minute train ride from Interlaken, with full-priced one-way tickets around 7.80 CHF.

5. Tour Thun Castle

Thun Castle stands as the most well-known landmark in its namesake town, situated on Lake Thun’s western shore. It’s a prime day trip destination from Interlaken. You can reach it by bus, train, or boat; I highly recommend the boat for a scenic cruise experience.

This majestic castle towers over Thun’s Old Town, offering spectacular views of red rooftops and the lake. Inside, the museum reveals its fascinating 900-year history, spanning six floors and concluding with a breathtaking view from the towers.

Practical Information: Thun is a 30-minute train ride from Interlaken, with tickets around 15 CHF.

6. Enjoy The View From Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm, accessible by hiking trails and funicular rides, serves as Interlaken’s home mountain. While hiking offers a more immersive experience, the funicular is quick and efficient. A round trip hike from town typically takes around four hours.

This trail is recommended for intermediate and experienced hikers, while beginners may prefer the funicular ride. The view from the top is simply magical, encompassing the entire town, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic Fondue dinner with sweeping views.

Practical Information: The funicular to Harder Kulm departs from Interlaken Ost train station, costing 38 CHF for a 10-minute ride.

7. Walk In The Footsteps Of James Bond At Piz Gloria

The Piz Gloria, a revolving restaurant atop Mount Schilthorn, gained fame as Blofeld’s lair in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The rush to complete the restaurant for filming led to the creation of a James Bond museum on-site.

Here, you can enjoy a 007 burger and a martini—shaken, not stirred! Experience a flight simulator or a simulated bobsleigh ride. Don’t miss the viewing platform that showcases over 200 peaks of the Swiss Alps.

Birg, the gondola’s only stop before Schilthorn, also offers magnificent views and the Birg Thrill Walk, which puts you on a glass platform above the abyss.

Practical Information: Travel from Interlaken to Schilthorn via Lauterbrunnen in about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with return tickets priced at 132.80 CHF.

8. Hike The Mannlichen Panorama Trail

The Mannlichen Panoramaweg is a fantastic easy hiking trail near Interlaken, taking approximately one and a half hours from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, allowing you to appreciate stunning views of the towering Swiss Alps.

The trail can be started in either direction, though it’s simpler from Mannlichen as the path descends. It’s mainly a wide gravel path, quite suitable for beginners and novices alike, making you want to return each weekend.

The trailhead is at the Mannlichen gondola station, which you can reach within an hour from Interlaken by taking a train to Grindelwald and then a gondola.

Practical Information: One-way tickets from Interlaken to Mannlichen cost 45 CHF, with the hiking trail stretching 4.5 kilometers in one direction.

9. Visit St. Beatus Caves

Found on Lake Thun’s northeastern shore, St. Beatus Caves is another stunning natural attraction close to Interlaken. Accessible via bus or walking and cycling paths, this cave system is one of Switzerland’s largest, featuring beautifully lit walkways through impressive chambers.

While only one kilometer of it is open for public tours, the caves’ splendor is sure to captivate any visitor.

Practical Information: Tours of St. Beatus Caves are seasonal, open typically from 9 AM to 6 PM, with tickets priced between 17-19 CHF for adults.

10. Discover Trümmelbach Falls

Trümmelbach Falls, located just 40 minutes from Interlaken, is a captivating cave system containing ten glacial waterfalls flowing inside the mountain. It’s recognized as one of the finest natural landmarks in central Switzerland.

Follow designated walking paths to experience all waterfalls, draining glacial waters from Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch—sometimes in torrents of up to 20,000 liters per second. Trümmelbach Falls is rightly honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its breathtaking natural beauty.

Insider Tip: The paths can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is essential.

Practical Information: The falls are open from 9 AM to 5 PM between April and November, with entrance fees at 14 CHF.

11. Paragliding Over The Lakes

Paragliding is a quintessential Interlaken activity, and the number of parachutes in the sky upon arrival will quickly convey its popularity. Hohematte Park serves as the main landing site and offers the best vantage point for spectators.

If you desire the exhilarating experience of soaring high above the town, Interlaken provides plenty of options. Paragliding Interlaken is the premier operator, allowing you to experience the breathtaking views of lakes from above. Departing from Beatenberg, enjoy a thrilling 10-20 minute flight before landing in Hohematte Park.

Longer flights are available at increased costs, though worth considering for those who revel in the altitude.

Practical Information: Paragliding experiences in Interlaken are available year-round, with average flight prices around 180 CHF.

12. Lake Oeschinen

Lake Oeschinen stands out as one of the prettiest mountain lakes in Switzerland, situated a 45-minute drive from Interlaken (though taking the train takes at least an hour). Treat yourself to the stunning beaches, hiking trails, and surreal scenery that whispers adventure in every direction.

Summer months allow for boating or thrilling toboggan rides from the gondola station, while winter activities include skiing, ice skating, and sledding.

Practical Information: Travelling from Interlaken to Lake Oeschinen by public transport takes about 2 hours (train to Kandersteg via Spiez and gondola to the lake), with full-priced tickets available for 52 CHF.

13. Ride A Cogwheel Train To Schynige Platte

Cogwheel trains have ferried passengers from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte since the late 1800s, available only in summer. The ride up the mountain is a quintessential Swiss experience. Wilderswil, just 5 minutes from Interlaken by train, serves as your starting point.

Schynige Platte is popular for its hiking trails and paragliding opportunities. Additionally, a free entry to an Alpine Botanical Garden awaits those purchasing tickets for the train ride. Enjoy daily performances by Alphorn players, showcasing an iconic element of Swiss culture.

Practical Information: The journey from Interlaken to Schynige Platte takes around an hour, with tickets priced at 71.2 CHF.

14. Visit Jungfraujoch, The Top of Europe

Jungfraujoch, a mountain saddle roughly 90 minutes from Interlaken, is one of Switzerland’s premier attractions and a must-visit in the region. It’s known as the Top of Europe due to housing the continent’s highest train station and post office.

While ascending the mountain, soak in stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The train makes a five-minute stop to witness the Aletsch Glacier from a dedicated viewpoint.

Top of Europe features an observation deck, an ice palace, and an Alpine fun park offering summer skiing. Visitors can also explore shops and restaurants, including the highest Lindt store in Europe, with chocolatiers in action.

Insider Tip: Bring postcards to send from Europe’s highest post office.

Practical Information: The journey to the Top of Europe takes approximately 90-120 minutes with full-priced return tickets (including Eiger Express Gondola) at 224 CHF, alongside discounts available with various travel passes.

15. Day Trip To Bern

Bern, Switzerland’s de facto capital, is a charming city just one hour from Interlaken by train, featuring a UNESCO World Heritage designated old town. Bern is rich in traditional landmarks, museums, and cobblestone alleys, making it a worthwhile visit for those eager to explore.

Notable sights include fountains, the Zytglogge clock tower, the bear park, and the rose garden. A visit to Einsteinhaus, where the famed scientist once lived, offers a glimpse into history.

Taking a walking tour is an excellent way to discover Bern’s top attractions during your day trip from Interlaken.

Practical Information: Traveling to Bern takes about one hour by train, with one-way tickets priced at 31.2 CHF.

16. Ride Mountain Carts At First

First can be accessed by train and gondola from Grindelwald, offering several fun activities including an exhilarating zipline and the iconic First Cliff Walk.

The mountain carts available at Schreckfeld station provide one of the most thrilling experiences. Navigate the curved mountain road down to the gondola’s base. This activity is safe even for children and may even be more economical than purchasing the gondola ride down.

Practical Information: Mountain carts at First are available from May to October, with adult rentals priced at 21 CHF per cart.

17. Make Chocolates At The Funky Chocolate Club

The Funky Chocolate Club is a delightful artisan shop in Interlaken offering chocolate-making workshops. You’ll learn from experienced chocolatiers and participate in crafting delicious treats, which you can devour after puttering through the process.

This is an extraordinary activity for those eager to learn a new skill, and you’ll leave with handmade chocolates that can serve as adorable gifts—or personal indulgences!

Practical Information: The Funky Chocolate Club hosts chocolate-making workshops three times daily, charging 69 CHF per participant.

18. Scenic Boat Ride On Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque lakes, famous for its stunning turquoise hue which results from glacial runoff. Boat rides on Lake Brienz offer not only a fantastic sightseeing experience but also an efficient mode of transport between lakeside towns.

Head to Interlaken’s harbor to board a BLS-Schiff boat. You can sail to Brienz for the full experience or get off early to explore quaint towns like Iseltwald or Giessbach, known for its remarkable waterfall.

Practical Information: Boat rides are available year-round, with more frequency in summer. Travelers with the Interlaken Guest Card can receive a 20% discount on day cruise passes.

19. Skiing In The Jungfrau Ski Region

While Interlaken shines in warm weather thanks to its hiking trails and water activities, the Jungfrau Ski Region draws winter sports enthusiasts from afar. This region encompasses three resorts: Grindelwald-Wengen, Grindelwald-First, and Mürren-Schilthorn, offering over 200 kilometers of ski pistes.

Whether you’re a beginner navigating gentle blue runs or seeking the thrill of black runs, the ski resorts cater to all skill levels. Notably, the famous Lauberhorn ski pistes are part of the Jungfrau Ski Region, hosting the Ski World Cup.

Practical Information: A Jungfrau Ski Region ski pass starts at 75 CHF for a daily pass, with weekly passes reaching up to 428 CHF.

20. Attempt The Mürren-Gimmelwald Via Ferrata

This adventurous activity is suitable only for experienced climbers, so if you’re a beginner, you might want to skip ahead. The Mürren-Gimmelwald Via Ferrata is a three-hour trail traversing the cliffs of Mürren.

This challenging route offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, showcasing the beauty of the pristine landscape. If it’s your first via Ferrata experience, consider climbing with a local guide; otherwise, experienced climbers can navigate the path solo, as much of it merely involves hiking through the forest.

Practical Information: Gear rental is available at Intersport Mürren for approximately 30 CHF.

21. Oberhofen Castle

Oberhofen Castle, a stunning chateau on the shores of Lake Thun, dates back to the 13th century and features sumptuous rooms with period decor. The highlight is its Oriental smoking parlor, reminiscent of Count Albert de Pourtalès’s time in Istanbul.

Tours of the castle offer rich insight into Bernese culture, while the Castle Park invites nature walks along beautifully landscaped gardens.

Practical Information: Oberhofen Castle is open for tours from May to October, generally from 11 AM to 5 PM, with admission costing 14 CHF.

22. Go Canyoning

Canyoning makes for an exhilarating experience in Interlaken. Local operators cater to canyoning experiences suited for different skill levels, from easy options to more demanding routes. The thrilling adventure is open to beginners, ensuring a delightful afternoon of jumping and sliding through stunning gorges.

Experienced guides will accompany you, providing all necessary gear. It’s an outstanding way to embrace your adventurous spirit while relishing the magnificent surroundings.

Practical Information: Canyoning in Interlaken operates from April to October, with prices for a three-hour adventure ranging from 150-230 CHF, depending on the chosen destination.

23. Try Whitewater Rafting

For those yearning for aquatic excitement, whitewater rafting on the Lütschine River offers thrills. While it may not match the adrenaline rush of canyon swings or climbing, it promises an exhilarating experience you’ll treasure.

Rafting is family-friendly, making it a wonderful day out for those traveling with kids. Adventures typically involve two hours on the water, including transport to and from Interlaken.

You might also be intrigued by Raclette Rafting, a unique experience where you can savor Raclette while floating from Bönigen to Interlaken.

Practical Information: Rafting in Interlaken is available from May to September, with prices starting at 135 CHF per person.

24. Excursion To Lucerne

Lucerne is a picturesque city often dubbed the most beautiful in Switzerland, located just two hours away by train. The stunning scenery along the route makes the trip enjoyable.

Upon arrival, cross the iconic Chapel Bridge and explore the old town, admiring its vibrant pastel buildings. For breathtaking views, climb the Museggmauer—an old city wall featuring towers.

Make sure to visit the renowned Lion Monument, located near the Glacier Garden and Bourbaki Panorama, both of which are excellent museums to explore for an hour or two.

Practical Information: The train ride to Lucerne takes around two hours, with one-way tickets priced at 34 CHF.

25. Hike The Eiger Trail

Begin your adventure at the Eigergletscher station and immerse yourself in one of central Switzerland’s top hikes. This trail weaves along the majestic north face of the Eiger mountain, offering captivating views as you descend toward Alpiglen.

Although you can hike in either direction, the route from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen is predominantly downhill, making it more manageable. Combine this with the Mannlichen Panorama Trail for an epic hiking day.

Practical Information: The easier version of the trail stretches 6 kilometers and takes around 2-3 hours to complete.

26. Dip Your Toes In Fallbodensee

While Lake Brienz and Lake Thun are breathtaking, they can’t quite compete with the charm of the tranquil Fallbodensee, located at the foot of the Eiger. Enjoy the breathtaking reflections of peaks in its calm waters, and if you’re brave enough, dip your toes in.

Pack a picnic to savor by the lake, as the surrounding Alps enhance every meal just by being present. For avid hikers, the trail from Kleine Scheidegg to Fallbodensee is a mere 30 minutes, and you can continue toward Eigergletscher to extend your day in nature.

Practical Information: Fallbodensee is reached through hiking trails from Eigergletscher and Kleine Scheidegg.

27. Discover The Allmendhubel Flower Trail

The Allmendhubel Flower Trail begins in Mürren and offers a leisure hike accessible from Interlaken by train. The path winds up the mountain for about three kilometers and is characterized by minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for families.

As you hike, admire fields of wildflowers, especially if visiting in late spring or summer. At Allmendhubel, a playground invites little ones to explore while adults relax at the restaurant, sampling delightful Swiss delicacies.

Practical Information: Hiking the Allmendhubel Flower Trail takes about an hour to complete and is easy enough for most visitors, with train tickets from Interlaken costing 20 CHF.

28. Cross The Sigriswil Panoramic Bridge

The Sigriswil Panoramic Bridge, stretching 340 meters, connects Sigriswil and Aeschlen, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. Yet, if heights aren’t your comfort zone, this may be a challenging experience.

Walking the bridge allows you to gaze into the Gummischlucht Gorge below, about 180 meters deep. Take in the dramatic views from this impressive engineering feat.

Practical Information: The Sigriswil Panoramic Bridge is open year-round, charging an 8 CHF crossing fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 2 Days Enough In Interlaken?

With two days, it’s certainly feasible to experience Interlaken’s highlights, visit Harder Kulm, embark on a boat ride, and take a brief excursion. However, a deeper exploration of the Jungfrau region warrants more time.

Is Interlaken Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Interlaken is famed for its abundance of outdoor pursuits, positioning it as one of Switzerland’s most sought-after tourist locales.

Why Is Interlaken So Famous?

Interlaken gained fame due to its close proximity to well-known attractions like Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, and Schynigge Platte, making it an ideal hub for exploring central Switzerland.

What is the prettiest part of Interlaken?

Harder Kulm undoubtedly ranks as the most beautiful area in Interlaken, providing an enchanting vista of the town, including lakes Thun and Brienz alongside stunning mountain peaks.

Where To Stay In Interlaken

Interlaken may be small, but lodging options are abundant and located near key attractions. Focus on your budget, as accommodation tends to be pricey throughout Switzerland.

The town is home to luxury hotels that promise pampering during your stay. Here are some recommended options:

• Interlaken Youth Hostel is an affordable option conveniently located next to Interlaken Ost train station.
• Metropole Swiss Quality Hotel offers a fantastic mid-range stay situated on Höheweg, Interlaken’s main street.
• Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa features luxurious rooms and premium services as the town’s top five-star accommodation.

Tips And Information For Visiting Interlaken

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Interlaken is during the summer, especially for hiking in the Swiss Alps. In winter, the region is often blanketed in snow, rendering many trails impassable.

Late spring and early fall present excellent travel windows, offering smaller crowds; however, verify open attractions, as swimming in the lake may not be feasible during these times.

Getting There

Zurich Airport is Switzerland’s busiest airport, located roughly two hours by train from Interlaken. This is the most convenient arrival option, with direct trains available.

Another option is Geneva Airport, the country’s second-busiest hub; travel duration is around 3 hours from Geneva to Interlaken, ideal for those wishing to tour towns by Lake Geneva.

Getting Around

Swiss trains are synonymous with efficiency and punctuality, making them the best means of travel in the Interlaken region. Many nearby villages are car-free, and often, using a train proves faster than driving.

Additionally, numerous mountain trains, gondolas, and funiculars in the area promise unforgettable experiences, reinforcing the benefits of public transportation in Switzerland. A Swiss Travel Pass can save you money on train tickets, and utilize the SBB app for train schedules. Interlaken is serviced by two train stations—Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost—both providing connections to various towns and cities.

Moreover, don’t forget that accommodation registered with the Interlaken Tourist Board grants access to a Interlaken Visitors Card, which allows free travel on local trains and buses, alongside discounts for mountain trains and boat rides.

How Much Time Do You Need

The duration of your stay in Interlaken hinges on your intended activities. A short trip of 3-5 days suffices to cover major tourist attractions, while a week or more allows for comprehensive exploration of the Jungfrau region.

For ski trips, particularly if you plan to visit multiple resorts and experience a variety of pistes, a similar duration is recommended. Regardless of how long you stay, Interlaken provides a wealth of activities to engage in.