Interlaken: Snow-capped peaks and storybook Swiss towns

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25 Best Things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland

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Craving alpine thrills, lakeside serenity, and Swiss charm? Head to Interlaken! Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by the towering peaks of the Bernese Alps, Interlaken is Switzerland’s adventure capital. Whether you're skydiving with mountain views or taking a relaxing cogwheel train to a glacier, Interlaken blends adrenaline and awe in equal measure.

Interlaken, Switzerland Highlights:

For Adventurers: Go paragliding over the Jungfrau region – Soar above turquoise lakes and snowy peaks for a truly unforgettable view.
For Nature Lovers: Cruise Lake Thun or Lake Brienz – Explore tranquil alpine waters by boat with stops at castles and lakeside villages.
For Scenic Views: Ride the Jungfraujoch Railway – Visit the “Top of Europe” at 3,454 meters with snow year-round and panoramic vistas.
For Hikers: Trek the Harder Kulm Panorama Trail – Hike or take the funicular for epic sunset views over Interlaken and beyond.
For Winter Travelers: Ski or snowboard in Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen – World-class resorts are just a short train ride away.

Best Time to Visit Interlaken, Switzerland

The best time to visit Interlaken depends on your interests. For hiking, boating, and paragliding, May to October offers mild weather and clear skies. Winter sports lovers should visit from December to March for access to nearby ski resorts and snow-covered landscapes.

How to Get to Interlaken, Switzerland

By Train: Interlaken is easily reached via direct trains from major cities like Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, and Geneva.
By Car: Drive through scenic alpine highways, though train travel is often easier due to parking limitations.
By Air: The nearest international airports are Zurich (2 hours by train) and Bern (1 hour by train).

Where to Stay in Interlaken, Switzerland

Recommended for Couples: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – Luxurious 5-star hotel with stunning views and world-class wellness facilities.
For Adventurers: Hotel Interlaken – Historic hotel with modern touches and central access to adventure tours and train lines.
For Budget Travelers: Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof – Clean, well-run hostel with mountain views, free breakfast, and friendly vibes.

Best Things to Do in Interlaken, Switzerland

1. Meet the Wild Side at Alpenwildpark Interlaken

I like: "Spot ibex, marmots, and more in a charming alpine wildlife haven"

Meet the Wild Side at Alpenwildpark Interlaken

Q: What is Alpenwildpark Interlaken?
- A: Alpenwildpark Interlaken is a wildlife animal park located in Interlaken, Switzerland.
Q: Where is Alpenwildpark Interlaken located?
- A: The park is situated adjacent to the Valley Station along the Harder-Kulm cableway.
Q: Why was Alpenwildpark Interlaken originally constructed?
- A: The park was originally built to reintroduce the Alpine ibex back into Switzerland in the 19th century, after the species had been completely eradicated from the country in previous years.
Q: When was the first breeding pair introduced to the park?
- A: The first breeding pair of Alpine ibex was introduced in 1915.
Q: When were the first ibex offspring born in the park?
- A: The first offspring were born between 1917 and 1918.
Q: What is the current status of the Alpine ibex in Switzerland?
- A: The species has made a healthy return to the region, thanks to conservation efforts.
Q: Can visitors explore Alpenwildpark Interlaken?
- A: Yes, visitors can explore the enclosures that helped reintroduce the Alpine ibex free of charge.

Brienzstrasse 1, Interlaken, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-8-26-53-00

2. Step Into a Fairytale at Oberhofen Castle

I recommend: "Turrets, lake views, and historic elegance on the shores of Lake Thun"

Step Into a Fairytale at Oberhofen Castle

Q: What is Oberhofen Castle?
- A: Oberhofen Castle is a romantic Swiss castle known for its beautiful lakeside turret and distinctive medieval keep.
Q: Where is Oberhofen Castle located?
- A: The castle is situated on Lake Thun in Switzerland.
Q: How old is Oberhofen Castle?
- A: The castle dates back to the 13th century.
Q: Who purchased Oberhofen Castle in 1844?
- A: The castle was purchased by Prussian Count Albert de Pourtales from Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
Q: How did Count Albert de Pourtales change the castle?
- A: He converted the castle into a family summer residence, giving it its modern-day appearance.
Q: What can visitors see inside Oberhofen Castle?
- A: Since 1954, the castle has housed a museum that showcases the rich history of its previous residents.
Q: What historical artwork is found in Oberhofen Castle?
- A: Visitors can view impressive murals in the Castle Chapel that date back to the early 15th century.

Schloss Oberhofen, Oberhofen, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-2-43-12-35

3. Time Travel Through Swiss Traditions at Ballenberg Open-Air Museum

I love: "Over 100 historic buildings, live demos, and a deep dive into rural heritage"

Time Travel Through Swiss Traditions at Ballenberg Open-Air Museum

Q: What is the Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum?
- A: The Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum is an open-air museum established in 1968 that showcases historical rural buildings from across Switzerland.
Q: Where is the museum located?
- A: The museum is situated between Interlaken and Haslital Meiringen-Hasliberg in Switzerland.
Q: What makes the museum’s location special?
- A: The museum grounds are set in a wooded and hilly landscape outside of Brienz, offering spectacular mountain scenery that impresses visitors.
Q: What is the main purpose of the museum?
- A: The museum preserves historical rural edifices that have been gathered from all over Switzerland. These buildings are:
Q: Are there dining options at the museum?
- A: Yes, the museum features two welcoming restaurants:

Museumsstrasse 131, Hofstetten bei Brienz, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-9-52-10-30

4. Rise Above It All at Harder Kulm

I enjoy: "A funicular ride to sky-high views over Interlaken and the Jungfrau massif"

Rise Above It All at Harder Kulm

Q: What is Harder Kulm?
- A: Harder Kulm is a mountain in Interlaken, Switzerland, featuring a popular viewing platform at 1,322 meters above sea level.
Q: How can visitors reach Harder Kulm?
- A: Visitors can take a quick, 10-minute cable car ride up to the mountain’s platform.
Q: What can visitors find at the top of Harder Kulm?
- A: At the top, visitors will find the Two-Lake Footbridge, an idyllic vantage platform inaugurated in October 2011.
Q: What views does the Two-Lake Footbridge offer?
- A: The platform offers unobstructed panoramic views of:
Q: Why should visitors go to Harder Kulm?
- A: The platform provides the perfect opportunity to soak in unforgettable scenery and capture memorable photographs.

Marktgasse 1, Interlaken, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-8-26-53-00

For garden lovers:

5. Find Zen at the Japanese Garden of Friendship

I like: "A peaceful pocket of tranquility nestled in the heart of Interlaken"

Find Zen at the Japanese Garden of Friendship

Q: What is the Japanese Garden of Friendship?
- A: The Japanese Garden of Friendship is a picturesque garden located in Interlaken, Switzerland, designed to reflect the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens.
Q: Where is the Japanese Garden of Friendship located?
- A: The garden is situated along Hoheweg Street, next to Hotel Interlaken.
Q: Who designed the garden?
- A: The garden was designed and created in 1995 by a talented landscape gardener from Otsu, Japan.
Q: What elements make the garden unique?
- A: The garden features a harmonious blend of flora and water, inspired by traditional Japanese gardens.
Q: What can visitors see in the garden?
- A: The garden includes:
Q: Why should visitors explore the Japanese Garden of Friendship?
- A: The garden offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of Interlaken and provides an excellent opportunity to capture images of Switzerland’s magnificent beauty.

Hoheweg 7, Interlaken, Switzerland, Phone: +41-76-3-21-38-00

6. Stand in Awe of the Jungfrau

I Recommend: "Glaciers, peaks, and once-in-a-lifetime views from Switzerland’s iconic mountain"

Stand in Awe of the Jungfrau

Q: What is Jungfrau?
- A: Jungfrau is a 4,158-meter mountain summit that is part of the Bernese Alps, located between Fiesch and Interlaken, Switzerland.
Q: What makes Jungfrau historically significant?
- A: For over 100 years, the Jungfrau railway has been transporting visitors to the highest-altitude railway station in Europe.
Q: Is Jungfrau part of a UNESCO World Heritage site?
- A: Yes, Jungfrau is recognized as part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch region, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Q: How do visitors reach the summit of Jungfrau?
- A: Visitors can take the cog railway up through a steep tunnel from Kleine Scheidegg to the summit.
Q: What can visitors experience at the summit?
- A: At the summit, visitors will find a high-Alpine wonderland made of:
Q: What scenic views can visitors enjoy?
- A: From the Plateau and Sphinx platforms, visitors can see:

Kammistrasse 13, Interlaken, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-5-21-43-43

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

7. Explore Whimsy and Wonder at Jungfrau Park

I like: "A unique theme park where science, mystery, and mountains meet"

Explore Whimsy and Wonder at Jungfrau Park

Q: What is Jungfrau Park?
- A: Jungfrau Park is a unique amusement park located in Matten bei Interlaken, Switzerland. It was originally known as Mystery Park.
Q: What is Mystery World at Jungfrau Park?
- A: Mystery World is an attraction where visitors can immerse themselves in some of the world’s most incredible phenomena and greatest mysteries through six themed pavilions featuring multimedia presentations.
Q: What are the six shows featured at Mystery World?
- A: The six themed pavilions include:
Q: What is the 360 Degree Panorama Show?
- A: The 360 Degree Panorama Show Jungfrau-Aletsch is a spectacular panoramic experience that displays stunning views of the most beautiful peaks and valleys within the UNESCO World Heritage site, Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch.
Q: What family-friendly attractions does Jungfrau Park offer?
- A: Mysty Country is a fun-filled area for families featuring:
- These attractions provide guaranteed fun for the whole family.

Obere Bonigstrasse 100, Matten bei Interlaken, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-8-27-57-57

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

8. Taste Swiss Perfection at the Kambly Experience

I enjoy: "Watch buttery biscuits come to life—and sample to your heart’s content"

Taste Swiss Perfection at the Kambly Experience

Q: What is the Kambly Experience?
- A: The Kambly Experience is a fun and informative tour that takes visitors through the creative process of making Kambly’s famous biscuits.
Q: Where is the Kambly Experience located?
- A: The factory is located in Trubschachen, Switzerland, approximately an hour’s drive north of Interlaken.
Q: What can visitors expect to learn during the tour?
- A: Visitors will discover the secrets and artistry behind making some of the finest biscuits in the world.
Q: What does the tour include?
- A: The tour offers:

Muhlestrasse 8, Trubschachen, Switzerland, Phone: +41-34-4-95-02-22

9. Experience Local Creativity at Kunsthaus Interlaken

I like: "Swiss art, rotating exhibits, and a cultural hub in the Bernese Oberland"

Experience Local Creativity at Kunsthaus Interlaken

Q: What is Kunsthaus Interlaken?
- A: Kunsthaus Interlaken is a modern art gallery in Interlaken, Switzerland, featuring live music, rotating exhibits, and workshops.
Q: What types of events and programs does Kunsthaus Interlaken offer?
- A: The cultural program at Kunsthaus Interlaken is extensive and diverse, including:
Q: What can visitors expect when they visit Kunsthaus Interlaken?
- A: Visitors can expect high-quality professional events and exhibitions in a space that promotes art and cultural exchange from around the world.
Q: What are some notable exhibitions that have been featured at Kunsthaus Interlaken?
- A: Some of the most impressive exhibits that have passed through the gallery include:

Jungfraustrasse 55, Interlaken, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-8-22-16-61

10. Cruise the Turquoise Waters of Lake Brienz

I like: "Boat rides, cliffside villages, and unreal alpine reflections await"

Cruise the Turquoise Waters of Lake Brienz

Q: What is Lake Brienz?
- A: Lake Brienz is a shimmering lake located north of the Alps mountain range in the Canton of Bern, Switzerland.
Q: What are the dimensions of Lake Brienz?
- A: The lake is approximately:
Q: How did Lake Brienz get its name?
- A: The lake is named after the village of Brienz, which lies on the eastern end of the lake along its north shore.
Q: What is the geographical significance of the lake's western end?
- A: The western part of the lake ends at the Bodeli, a narrow strip of land that separates it from neighboring Lake Thun.
Q: What activities can visitors enjoy at Lake Brienz?
- A: Visitors can:

Hauptstrasse 143, Brienz, Switzerland, Phone: +41-33-9-52-80-80

Where to Eat in Interlaken, Switzerland

Recommended for Families: Ox Restaurant & Grill – Local meat and Swiss classics in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
For Swiss Cuisine: Restaurant Laterne – Rustic and traditional, serving cheese fondue, rösti, and alpine specialties.
For Global Tastes: Husi Bierhaus – Casual eatery with a wide beer selection and international pub-style dishes.

If you are interested in local events:

For Music Lovers: Greenfield Festival (June) – Rock and metal music festival in nearby Interlaken airport grounds.
For Folklore Fans: Unspunnen Festival (held every 12 years) – Celebrates Swiss traditions with yodeling, alphorns, and stone-throwing.
For Winter Magic: Christmas Markets in Interlaken (December) – Festive stalls, mulled wine, and snowy surroundings light up the town.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Interlaken:

For Waterfall Views: Lauterbrunnen (20 min) – Home to 72 waterfalls, including Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls inside a mountain.
For Glacier Views: Grindelwald (35 min) – Outdoor paradise for hiking, skiing, and the scenic Eiger Express cableway.
For History: Thun (30 min) – Lakeside castle, old town charm, and boutique shopping.
For Lake Adventures: Brienz (25 min) – Beautiful lake village known for woodcarving and the Brienz Rothorn Railway.
For a Scenic Train Ride: Schynige Platte (90 min round-trip) – Vintage cogwheel train ride with alpine gardens and panoramic trails.

I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

Q: What is Interlaken?
- A: Interlaken is a beautiful resort town located in the mountainous Bernese Oberland region of central Switzerland.
Q: Where is Interlaken situated?
- A: The town is located on a small stretch of land between the emerald-colored waters of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.
Q: What kind of natural surroundings does Interlaken have?
- A: Interlaken is surrounded by:
- This makes it a true haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Q: What activities can visitors enjoy in Interlaken?
- A: Visitors have an endless list of fun activities, including:

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