How to Get to Interlaken

Interlaken is settled in the mountainous Bernese Oberland between Lake Thun & Lake Brienz. The city embodies the mountainous surroundings with timber houses and you feel the magic of the area as you stand looking at the Aare River

Interlaken is the perfect location for the outdoor enthusiast.

The closest city to fly into is Berne, with a 1 hour train ride to the Interlake Ost station. Zurich is another option, but is a 2.5 hour train ride (through Berne) to Interlaken.

Train travel in Switzerland is efficient and easy. It is the most convenient way to travel in Switzerland and especially to/in Interlaken. Many of the mountain towns you can explore on your visit are only accessible by train, as well.

Where to Stay in Interlaken

Airbnb: This is my favorite way to travel. You can immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle while pricing to your budget and getting a variety of amenities.

Click here for $40 off your first stay when you join Airbnb.

Hotel Krebs: Midrange hotel that is convenient and centrally located. Many options come with free breakfasts well.

Hostel: Backpacker’s Villa Sonnenhof is a great budget friendly alternative, while staying centrally located. Offers both shared dorms and private rooms.

Tip: Use Booking.com here for $25 refund after you book and stay

What to Do in Interlaken

1. Get Busy Living

This is Outdoor Interlaken’s motto, and a great fit to all they offer. With activities for all seasons and experiences for adrenaline junkies and the casual adventurist alike, there is plenty to choose from.

2. Journey to Harder Kulm

The mountain deemed the top of Interlaken quite lives up to its name. Sitting 1,322 meters above sea level with a viewing platform jutting out over the rock face, you will not be disappointed with the views. To get here you can take the 10 minute cable car up to the top or conquer the 2.5 hour hike to the top. This hike is quite steep and requires a certain level of fitness. However, there is another opportunity to hike once at the top. You can take the circular trail by the restaurant for a relatively easy 1 hr stroll through the woods.

3. Visit Jungfraujoch

The highest train station in Europe is only about a 2 hours journey from Interlaken and the journey itself is beautiful! You may start in the sun and green fields, but you’ll end in the snow capped peaks of the Alps. The ultimate journey.

You can buy tickets online or locally at the visitor center. If you are traveling between May and October and you want to beat the crowds I suggest getting the “Good Morning” ticket for (these tickets are cheaper than the regular tickets). You must start your journey at 8 or 8:30am and return by the 1pm, but having the station, nearly, all to yourself adds to the experience. Once at the top, there are several restaurants, shops, and activities to enjoy. Not to mention the views!

4. Take a Train Ride

From Interlake, there a several different day trips you may chose to explore by train. For the initial ascent, you can choose between two train routes. One will take you towards Lauterbrunnen and the other towards Grindelwald. These two routes meet back up at Kleine Scheidegg, where the final train to Jungfraujoch. I don’t recommend attempting Jungfraujoch and these Swiss villages. Take your time at each and explore!

Immerse yourself in the Bernese Alps

Lauterbrunnen: Staubbach Falls, Trummelbach Falls, Lauterbrunnen Village, Cable car up to Murren

Grindelwald: Hiking, Zip lining, Skiing, The first cable car, biking, Grindelwald First Cliff Walk

Kleine Scheidegg: Small Alpine village, Hiking

5. Try Fondu

A trip to Switzerland would not be complete without trying authentic Swiss fondue. It can be pricey in many places, but it’s an experience worth having!