Destination Guide··7 min read

10 Best Things to Do in Interlaken | The Ultimate Adventure Guide

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TravelTalk24 Team

Travel Experts

10 Best Things to Do in Interlaken | The Ultimate Adventure Guide

Interlaken is the beating heart of the Swiss Alps. Situated perfectly between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and overlooked by the iconic trio of peaks—the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau—it serves as the ultimate base for both adrenaline junkies and those looking for peaceful mountain vistas. It is a place where crystal-clear turquoise waters meet soaring granite cliffs.

Whether you are looking to jump off a mountain with a parachute or simply enjoy a quiet boat cruise across a glacier-fed lake, Interlaken offers an incredible variety of experiences. Based on the travel insights from 'Samuel and Audrey', we have compiled the top 10 things to do to make your Swiss adventure unforgettable.

Watch: 10 Things to do in INTERLAKEN, Switzerland

Must-See Attractions and Experiences

ActivityHarder Kulm
HighlightsPanoramic views of Interlaken and the Jungfrau region.
Pro TipTake the funicular up just before sunset for the best lighting.
ActivityLake Brienz Cruise
HighlightsTurquoise, glacier-fed waters and the Giessbach Falls.
Pro TipThe color of the water is most vibrant on a sunny day.
ActivityParagliding
HighlightsFlying over the town with 360-degree mountain views.
Pro TipInterlaken is one of the safest and most popular spots in the world for this.
ActivityUnterseen
HighlightsThe historic 'Old Town' with traditional Swiss architecture.
Pro TipIt is much quieter than the main tourist strip—perfect for a stroll.
ActivityLauterbrunnen Day Trip
HighlightsThe 'Valley of 72 Waterfalls' including Staubbach Falls.
Pro TipOnly a 20-minute train ride away from Interlaken Ost.

From Viewpoints to Hidden Gems

For the best view of the town, you cannot miss **Harder Kulm**. A steep funicular ride takes you to the 'Top of Interlaken' at 1,322 meters. From the Two Lakes Bridge, you can see both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun separated by the town, with the snow-capped giants of the Bernese Oberland standing tall in the background.

If you prefer to stay on the water, a cruise on **Lake Brienz** is a must. The water is a unique, milky turquoise color due to the glacial particles. You can take a boat all the way to Brienz, stopping at the Giessbach Falls, or head in the opposite direction on **Lake Thun** to explore medieval castles like Schloss Oberhofen.

If you are visiting in the summer, head to Höhematte Park. It's the large green space in the center of town where you can watch paragliders land and get a clear view of the Jungfrau peak on a sunny day.

Tasting the Local Flavors

  • Swiss Fondue: No trip is complete without dipping bread into a bubbling pot of Gruyère and Emmental.
  • Raclette: Melted cheese scraped over potatoes and pickles—the ultimate Swiss comfort food.
  • Swiss Chocolate: Visit a local chocolatier like Funky Chocolate Club for a tasting workshop.
  • Rösti: A crispy, buttery grated potato pancake that is a staple in the Berner Oberland region.

Quick Trip Summary

Expense/ItemHarder Kulm Funicular
Estimated Cost / Infoapprox. 40 CHF (return)
Expense/ItemLake Cruise
Estimated Cost / InfoFree with Swiss Travel Pass
Expense/ItemParagliding Flight
Estimated Cost / Infoapprox. 170 - 190 CHF
Expense/ItemTraditional Meal
Estimated Cost / Info30 - 50 CHF per person
Expense/ItemBest Time to Visit
Estimated Cost / InfoJune - September for hiking; Dec - March for snow

Interlaken isn't just a place you see; it's a place you feel. From the cold spray of a waterfall to the wind in your face while paragliding, it stays with you.

Samuel and Audrey

Simplify Your Swiss Itinerary

Organizing train connections to Lauterbrunnen, booking paragliding slots, and tracking funicular timings can be complicated. To plan your mountain routes effortlessly, check out the travel planning app, TravelTalk24.

Tags

InterlakenSwitzerlandSwiss AlpsTravel GuideAdventureHarder KulmLake Brienz

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