Holiday in Interlaken

City in Switzerland — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇨🇭

Country

Switzerland

Type

City

Best time to travel

Jun–Sep (adventure), Dec–Mar (skiing in Grindelwald)

Budget/day

150–240 €

Getting there from Germany

By train from Bern in 1h, from Zurich in 2h. By car via the A6/A8. Nearest airport: Bern (1h) or Zurich (2h).

What makes Interlaken special as a destination?

Interlaken, nestled between the emerald green Lake Thun and the deep blue Lake Brienz, is the gateway to the majestic Jungfrau region and one of the most spectacular alpine panoramas in Switzerland. The Höhematte, a large meadow in the city center, offers an unobstructed view of the snow-covered Jungfrau (4,158 m), the Mönch, and the Eiger — a backdrop that has attracted travelers from all over the world since the 19th century. The Jungfraujoch, at 3,454 meters the highest railway station in Europe, is the highlight of the region: The cogwheel train travels through the interior of the Eiger up to a viewing platform overlooking the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. The Harder Kulm, Interlaken's local mountain, offers a viewing platform that hovers 1,322 meters above the two lakes — particularly breathtaking at sunset. Interlaken is the adventure capital of Switzerland: paragliding over the lakes, canyoning in gorges, bungee jumping from the Stockhorn Bridge, or white-water rafting on the Lütschine are all part of the standard program. The nearby Lauterbrunnen Valley, with its 72 waterfalls, inspired Tolkien for the Elven realm of Rivendell. Grindelwald provides access to the First Cliff Walk and the Eiger Trail. In winter, the region transforms into a top-notch ski area. A boat trip on Lake Thun with views of medieval castles like Oberhofen and Spiez is the relaxed alternative.

Safety
95
Nature
90
Adventure
90
Urban
85
Winter
80

What are the top highlights in Interlaken?

The top highlights in Interlaken include Jungfraujoch, Höhematte, Paragliding, Thuner- und Brienzersee, Harder Kulm.

The places you absolutely must not miss.

1

Jungfraujoch

The 'Top of Europe' at 3,454m is accessible by cogwheel train and offers views of the Aletsch Glacier (UNESCO).

2

Höhematte

The large meadow in the center of Interlaken offers the legendary view of the Jungfrau – this is where paragliders land.

3

Paragliding

Interlaken is the paragliding hotspot of Europe – tandem flights with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

4

Thuner- und Brienzersee

Two completely different lakes: the turquoise Lake Brienz and the picturesque Lake Thun with castles.

5

Harder Kulm

Interlaken's local mountain (1,322m) offers the best view of both lakes and the trio of peaks.

Hotels in Interlaken

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Reise-SIM für Interlaken

Günstig surfen im Urlaub mit travSIM

Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen

Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie

When is the best time to visit Interlaken?

The best time to visit Interlaken is Jun–Sep (adventure), Dec–Mar (skiing in Grindelwald). 18–26 °C In winter: -3–5 °C

Recommended travel time

Jun–Sep (adventure), Dec–Mar (skiing in Grindelwald)

Summer

18–26 °C

Winter

-3–5 °C

How much does a holiday in Interlaken cost?

Budget travellers: 90–130 €/day, mid-range: 150–240 €/day, luxury: 270–480 €/day.

Average costs per person per day

Budget

90–130 €

Hostel, Street food, Public transport

Mid-range

150–240 €

Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions

Luxury

270–480 €

Boutique hotel, Fine dining

How do I get from Germany to Interlaken?

By train from Bern in 1h, from Zurich in 2h. By car via the A6/A8. Nearest airport: Bern (1h) or Zurich (2h).

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What travel tips are there for Interlaken?

Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.

Jungfraujoch ticket is very expensive (about 220 CHF) – Morning first ticket or evening ticket is cheaper.

Grindelwald-First Cliff Walk: Free with mountain railway ticket and spectacular views.

Swiss Travel Pass covers many mountain railways or offers a 50% discount.

Lake Brienz is colder but more turquoise – perfect for photos.

Schynige Platte: Botanical alpine garden with panoramic views – insider tip!

What should you eat in Interlaken?

Typical specialities in Interlaken: Berner Rösti, Fondue, Raclette, Älplermagronen, Meringue with double cream from Gruyères, Berner Platte.

These specialties you must try!

Berner Rösti
Fondue
Raclette
Älplermagronen
Meringue with double cream from Gruyères
Berner Platte
Suitable for:AdventureMountainsLakesParaglidingJungfrau

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