10 Best Things to Do in Interlaken | The Ultimate Adventure Guide
TravelTalk24 Team
Travel Experts

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
| Activity | Highlights | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Harder Kulm | Panoramic views of Interlaken and the Jungfrau region. | Take the funicular up just before sunset for the best lighting. |
| Lake Brienz Cruise | Turquoise, glacier-fed waters and the Giessbach Falls. | The color of the water is most vibrant on a sunny day. |
| Paragliding | Flying over the town with 360-degree mountain views. | Interlaken is one of the safest and most popular spots in the world for this. |
| Unterseen | The historic 'Old Town' with traditional Swiss architecture. | It is much quieter than the main tourist strip—perfect for a stroll. |
| Lauterbrunnen Day Trip | The 'Valley of 72 Waterfalls' including Staubbach Falls. | Only 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.
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/Item | Estimated Cost / Info |
|---|---|
| Harder Kulm Funicular | approx. 40 CHF (return) |
| Lake Cruise | Free with Swiss Travel Pass |
| Paragliding Flight | approx. 170 - 190 CHF |
| Traditional Meal | 30 - 50 CHF per person |
| Best Time to Visit | June - 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.
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