Things to Do in Interlaken Switzerland: The Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re searching for the best things to do in Interlaken Switzerland, you’re about to discover one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Swiss Alps. Nestled between the turquoise waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, the charming alpine town of Interlaken offers a perfect combination of adventure, scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
Surrounded by towering peaks of the Bernese Alps, Interlaken has become one of Switzerland’s most popular destinations for travelers who want to explore the mountains, enjoy thrilling outdoor activities, and experience authentic Swiss landscapes.
In this guide, you’ll discover the top things to do in Interlaken Switzerland, the best viewpoints, day trips, and unique adventures that make this alpine town truly special.
Why Interlaken Is One of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
Interlaken sits in the heart of the famous Bernese Oberland, a region known for its dramatic mountain scenery and charming alpine villages. Thanks to its central location, Interlaken acts as a gateway to some of the most iconic destinations in the Swiss Alps.
Travelers come here for many reasons. Some visit for peaceful lake cruises, others come for mountain excursions, while adrenaline seekers arrive to try paragliding, canyoning, or skydiving. The town also provides easy access to world-famous alpine destinations like Jungfraujoch, often called the “Top of Europe.”
Whether you’re an adventure lover or simply want to enjoy breathtaking mountain views, there are countless things to do in Interlaken Switzerland that will make your trip unforgettable.
Best Things to Do in Interlaken Switzerland
Visit Harder Kulm – The Best Viewpoint in Interlaken
One of the most popular things to do in Interlaken Switzerland is visiting Harder Kulm, a stunning panoramic viewpoint overlooking the town and both lakes.
A short funicular ride takes you from Interlaken to the summit in less than ten minutes. At the top, you’ll find a spectacular viewing platform offering one of the most famous views in Switzerland. From here, you can see the turquoise lakes stretching across the valley while the snow-covered peaks of the Alps rise dramatically in the background.
Sunset is considered the best time to visit Harder Kulm, when golden light paints the mountains and creates an unforgettable alpine landscape.
Take the Jungfraujoch Train – Top of Europe
No travel guide about things to do in Interlaken Switzerland would be complete without mentioning the famous trip to Jungfraujoch.
Located at an altitude of 3,454 meters, Jungfraujoch hosts the highest railway station in Europe. The scenic train journey takes visitors through tunnels carved into the mountains before emerging into breathtaking glacier landscapes.
At the summit you can explore:
- The Ice Palace
- Glacier observation decks
- Snow fields and panoramic viewpoints
- Views of the massive Aletsch Glacier
For many travelers, this is the highlight of their Swiss Alps adventure.
Jungfraujoch Day Trip from Interlaken
Walk Through Höhematte Park
Located in the center of town, Höhematte Park is one of the most relaxing places to visit.
This large green meadow offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. It’s also the landing zone for paragliders who soar above the Alps before touching down in the park.
Watching dozens of colorful parachutes glide across the sky while surrounded by alpine scenery is one of the most unique things to do in Interlaken Switzerland.
Adventure Activities in Interlaken
Interlaken is often called the adventure capital of Switzerland. If you enjoy adrenaline-filled activities, you’ll find plenty of exciting experiences here.
Popular activities include:
- Paragliding over the Alps
- Skydiving above Interlaken
- Canyoning in alpine waterfalls
- Jet boat rides on Lake Brienz
- River rafting in the mountains
Many travelers say paragliding is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Interlaken Switzerland, because it offers breathtaking aerial views of the lakes and mountains.
Interlaken Paragliding Experience
Best Day Trips from Interlaken
Lauterbrunnen Valley
Just 20 minutes away lies the beautiful village of Lauterbrunnen, famous for its valley of waterfalls.
With more than 70 waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is often described as one of the most beautiful valleys in Europe. The towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a landscape that looks straight out of a fairy tale.
Grindelwald
Another fantastic destination near Interlaken is Grindelwald, known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor adventures.
From here, visitors can explore the famous First Cliff Walk, hike alpine trails, or ride cable cars to panoramic viewpoints.
Grindelwald First Cliff Walk Tour
Best Time to Visit Interlaken
The best time to explore the many things to do in Interlaken Switzerland depends on what type of experience you want.
Summer is ideal for hiking, lake cruises, and outdoor adventures. During this season the lakes shine in bright turquoise colors and mountain trails are fully accessible.
Winter transforms the region into a snowy paradise, attracting skiers and snowboarders to nearby resorts such as Wengen and Grindelwald.
Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and peaceful alpine scenery, making them perfect for travelers who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Travel Tips for Visiting Interlaken
When planning your trip, there are a few helpful tips to keep in mind.
First, always check mountain weather conditions before heading to high-altitude destinations. Alpine weather can change quickly, especially in the afternoon.
Second, book popular excursions such as Jungfraujoch in advance during peak travel seasons. These tours often sell out quickly.
Finally, bring comfortable walking shoes and a good camera. With so many scenic landscapes, you’ll likely find yourself taking photos everywhere you go.
Conclusion
There are countless incredible things to do in Interlaken Switzerland, from exploring alpine viewpoints and visiting glacier peaks to experiencing thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you’re admiring the panoramic views from Harder Kulm, traveling to Jungfraujoch, or paragliding above the lakes, Interlaken offers a travel experience that few places in the world can match.
For travelers exploring Switzerland, this beautiful alpine town is more than just a destination—it’s a gateway to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Swiss Alps.
FAQs
Is Interlaken worth visiting?
Yes. Interlaken is one of the most scenic destinations in Switzerland thanks to its lakes, mountains, and adventure activities.
How many days should you spend in Interlaken?
Most travelers spend 2 to 3 days exploring the town and nearby alpine destinations.
What is Interlaken famous for?
Interlaken is famous for adventure sports such as paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, and its proximity to Jungfraujoch.
Can you visit Jungfraujoch from Interlaken?
Yes. Interlaken is one of the main starting points for trips to Jungfraujoch via scenic mountain trains.
Is Interlaken expensive?
Switzerland is generally expensive, but planning ahead and booking tours early can help reduce travel costs.