Interlaken City Guide

This Interlaken City Guide explores the hub between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Ride the Harder Kulm funicular, paraglide the valley, and shop on the Höheweg.

Interlaken serves as the adventure capital of Switzerland, perfectly positioned between the emerald waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. For the ultimate perspective of the Bernese Alps, take to the skies on a tandem paragliding flight or navigate the glacial waters of the Lütschine River on a rafting excursion. Those seeking a rush on solid ground can tackle the challenging courses at the Ropes Park Interlaken or descend through rugged gorges on a canyoning trip to Chli Schliere or Grimsel.

Beyond the high-octane thrills, the region offers serene ways to soak in its dramatic landscapes. A kayak tour on the turquoise Lake Brienz provides a peaceful escape, while a funicular ride up to Harder Kulm reveals panoramic vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. For a deeper look at the valley's natural wonders, explore the subterranean wonders of St. Beatus Caves or take an e-bike tour through the Lauterbrunnen Valley, home to the roaring Trummelbach Waterfalls and the majestic Jungfraujoch.

While most visitors head straight for the Harder Kulm funicular, those in the know find their way to Burgseeli in the nearby village of Ringgenberg. This naturally warm moor lake is tucked away in a protected rock basin, making it the perfect spot for a swim when Lake Brienz or Lake Thun remain too chilly for comfort.

For a peaceful escape from the bustling Höheweg, take a gentle walk to the Weissenau Ruins. Situated at the mouth of the Aare river on Lake Thun, these 13th-century remnants offer a quiet sanctuary and a stunning perspective of the surrounding mountains without the crowds.

Cap off an active day with a visit to Rugenbräu AG. This local brewery and distillery has been a fixture at the foot of the Rugen mountain for generations. Sampling a cold beer or a Swiss Highland Single Malt Whisky here provides an authentic taste of Interlaken’s craft heritage.

Interlaken is remarkably safe and remains one of the most secure destinations for international travelers. Violent crime is nearly non-existent, and even solo travelers can feel comfortable exploring the town and its surroundings at any hour. While petty theft like pickpocketing is rare, it is still wise to remain vigilant in crowded areas such as the Interlaken Ost train station or during major festivals. Standard travel precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings, are usually more than sufficient.

The primary safety considerations in Interlaken involve the surrounding natural environment. When venturing into the Bernese Oberland for hiking or skiing, always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before departing. Mountain weather can shift rapidly, making proper footwear and layered clothing essential. For those engaging in adventure sports like paragliding or canyoning, ensure you book with reputable, certified operators. If exploring the lakes, be mindful of cold water temperatures even in summer. In case of an emergency, dial 117 for police or 144 for medical assistance.

Interlaken is a remarkably easy town to navigate, largely thanks to its compact size and efficient public transportation system. Most visitors find that walking is the best way to soak in the mountain views between the two main hubs, Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost. For those staying in local accommodations, the Interlaken Guest Card is an essential benefit, providing free travel on local buses and regional trains within the immediate zone.

For journeys beyond the town center or when carrying heavy luggage, taxis are readily available at both train stations, though they are quite expensive. While ride-sharing services like Uber are generally not available in the region, the local bus network is exceptionally reliable, connecting the town to the shores of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Bicycles and e-bikes are also popular choices for exploring the flat valley floor at a more personal pace.

Reaching Interlaken from major international gateways is most convenient by train. A one-way ticket from Zurich Airport typically costs around 75 CHF and takes approximately two hours. Locally, a short taxi ride within the town center generally costs between 20 and 30 CHF. For those without a Guest Card, a single local bus fare is approximately 3.80 CHF, though most tourists will find the complimentary card covers all their urban transit needs.

Interlaken offers a shopping experience as varied as its Alpine landscape. The primary artery for retail is the Höheweg, where luxury seekers will find an impressive concentration of high-end watch boutiques and jewelry stores showcasing world-famous Swiss craftsmanship. From prestige brands at Kirchhofer to boutique jewelry, the selection is curated for the discerning international traveler.

For those seeking quintessential Swiss treasures, the town is filled with specialty shops offering finely crafted wood carvings and the iconic Swiss Army knives from the Victorinox Store Interlaken. Chocolate enthusiasts should not miss Läderach, where artisanal bars and truffles provide a sweet taste of the region.

Budget-conscious shoppers can find high-quality local cheeses and chocolates at the Coop supermarket, which offers an accessible way to bring home a piece of Switzerland. Additionally, the town is a hub for outdoor gear, with numerous sports shops catering to those preparing for mountain adventures. Whether looking for a luxury timepiece or a simple souvenir, Interlaken’s retail scene is both diverse and charming.

The ideal time to visit Interlaken depends on your thirst for adventure. For hiking and paragliding, the summer months of June through August offer the warmest weather and the most accessible trails, though this peak period brings higher prices and larger crowds. Alternatively, winter sports enthusiasts should aim for December to February, when the town serves as a cozy base for world-class skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Jungfrau Region.

For those seeking a more tranquil escape, the shoulder seasons of May and September provide a perfect compromise. During these months, you'll encounter fewer tourists and more favorable accommodation rates. Spring greets visitors with blooming alpine flora and powerful waterfalls, while autumn offers crisp, clear air and a stunning tapestry of golden foliage across the mountainsides.

Language: Swiss German

• Grüezi — Hello
• Guete Morge — Good Morning
• Guete Abig — Good Evening
• Uf Wiederluege — Goodbye
• Merci — Thank You
• Wo isch ______? — Where is ______?
• Bitte — Please
• Wo isch d'Toilett? — Where is the bathroom?
• Chuchichäschtli — Kitchen cupboard (The ultimate Swiss tongue-twister to prove your local credentials!)