Overview
Interlaken is a small town of roughly 5,000 residents situated on a narrow glacial plain between Lake Thun to the west and Lake Brienz to the east, in the canton of Bern. Its name literally means 'between the lakes,' which describes its geography precisely. Despite its modest size, it functions as one of Switzerland's most-visited tourism hubs, drawing visitors who use it as a base for exploring the surrounding Bernese Oberland.
The town sits at an elevation of around 570 metres and is framed on the south by the iconic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau — a trio of mountains that define the skyline and draw mountaineers and sightseers alike. The central open meadow known as the Höhematte, once protected from development under a 19th-century agreement, remains a defining feature of the town's layout.
Interlaken's tourism infrastructure is well-developed and internationally oriented, with signage, menus, and staff in the hospitality sector typically comfortable in multiple languages. The town has historically attracted visitors from across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, and this is reflected in its range of restaurants, shops, and services.
Before You Go
Visas
Switzerland is not an EU member but participates in the Schengen Area, which affects entry requirements for many nationalities. We do not publish specific visa rules here, as requirements change. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) website for current requirements applicable to your passport.
Health
No vaccination certificates are required for entry into Switzerland from most countries under standard conditions, but verify this before travel. Switzerland has high-quality medical facilities; however, healthcare costs are significant. Travel health insurance with adequate coverage is strongly recommended. Confirm details with your insurer before departure.
Money
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Major credit and debit cards are accepted widely in Interlaken, though some smaller vendors, mountain huts, and rural cable car stations may prefer or require cash. ATMs are available in the town centre. Be aware that Switzerland is a high-cost destination — accommodation, dining, and activities all tend to be priced above Western European averages. Budget carefully and verify prices on official operator websites before booking.
Weather and packing
- Summer (June–August): Warm days (often 20–27°C in the valley), but mountain weather changes rapidly. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection.
- Winter (December–March): Cold, with snowfall at altitude. Thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, and appropriate footwear are essential.
- Shoulder seasons: Spring and autumn can bring unpredictable weather; fog is common in the valley in autumn.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest major international airports are Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA). Both have direct rail connections to Interlaken; travel times vary — verify current schedules on the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) website. Bern Airport (BRN) is smaller with limited international routes but is geographically closer.
By Train
Interlaken is well served by rail. The town has two main stations: Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost (East). Interlaken Ost is the key hub for onward journeys into the Jungfrau region via the Bernese Oberland Bahn (BOB). Direct and connecting intercity trains link Interlaken to Bern, Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva. The Swiss Travel Pass, if valid for your journey, covers many of these routes — check inclusion details on the Swiss Travel System website.
By Road
Interlaken is accessible by car via the A8 motorway. A Swiss motorway vignette (toll sticker) is required for driving on Swiss highways; verify current purchase options and fees before travel. Parking in central Interlaken can be limited in peak season.
Getting Around
Interlaken's town centre is compact and walkable. The main pedestrian and commercial spine runs between Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost stations, a distance most visitors cover on foot in around 20 minutes.
Local and regional buses connect Interlaken to nearby villages. The region's mountain railways, aerial cable cars, and funiculars are operated by Jungfraubahnen and other operators — schedules and fares should be verified directly on their official websites, as prices vary significantly by destination and season. Many passes (Swiss Travel Pass, Jungfrau Travel Pass, Berner Oberland Pass) offer discounts or inclusions; compare options before purchasing.
Bicycle rental is available in town and is a practical way to explore the lakeside paths between Interlaken and surrounding communities. Verify availability and current rental providers locally or through your accommodation.
Things to See & Do
Jungfrau Region Excursions
The most popular day trip from Interlaken is the journey to Jungfraujoch (3,454 m), marketed as the 'Top of Europe.' The journey involves multiple trains departing from Interlaken Ost via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. The round trip is time-consuming and expensive; check current fares, weather conditions, and advance booking requirements on the Jungfraubahnen website before committing. Cloud cover can obscure views — flexible itineraries are advisable.
Lakes Thun and Brienz
Both lakes offer boat services operated by BLS and the Lake Brienz shipping company respectively. Cruises range from short hops to full-circuit journeys stopping at lakeside towns. Verify current timetables and fare inclusions with travel passes on operator websites.
Harder Kulm
A funicular departs from near Interlaken Ost and ascends to Harder Kulm (1,322 m), offering a viewpoint over the town and the surrounding lakes and mountains. Operating season and hours vary — check the Jungfraubahnen website.
Adventure Sports
Interlaken has a well-established adventure tourism industry offering activities including paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, white-water rafting, and bungee jumping. Multiple operators are based in town. Prices, age restrictions, and safety standards vary by operator — research and book through reputable companies, confirm what safety certifications they hold, and read terms carefully.
Hiking
- The Jungfrau region has an extensive marked trail network graded by difficulty.
- Popular routes include trails around Grindelwald, the Lauterbrunnen valley, and Mürren — all reachable by train or cable car from Interlaken.
- Trail conditions vary by season; consult SchweizMobil (the national trail network) and local conditions reports before setting out.
Schynige Platte
A rack railway from Wilderswil (one stop from Interlaken Ost) climbs to Schynige Platte, a ridgeline offering panoramic views and an alpine botanical garden. Operating season is limited roughly to summer months — verify dates and fares on the Jungfraubahnen site.
Food & Drink
Interlaken's dining scene reflects its international visitor base. You will find Swiss restaurants serving regional Bernese cuisine alongside Japanese, Indian, Thai, and other international options concentrated along the main thoroughfares between the two stations.
Swiss and Regional Dishes to Try
- Rösti: Pan-fried grated potato, a Bernese staple
- Fondue and raclette: Cheese-based dishes prevalent throughout the region, especially in cooler months
- Älplermagronen: Alpine macaroni with cheese, cream, and onions
- Berner Platte: A substantial platter of meats and sausages on sauerkraut or beans — a traditional Bernese speciality
Supermarkets (Migros and Coop have branches in or near the town centre) are practical options for self-catering or picnic supplies and considerably more budget-friendly than restaurants. Tap water in Switzerland is of high quality and safe to drink throughout the region.
Practical Information
Emergency Numbers
- Emergency (general): 112 (European standard)
- Police: 117
- Ambulance: 144
- Fire: 118
- Mountain rescue / REGA (air rescue): 1414
Always verify these numbers are current before travel.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage is generally good in the town and on main transport routes. Coverage in remote mountain areas may be limited or absent. Check roaming arrangements with your provider; Switzerland is not in the EU, so EU roaming rules do not apply for travellers from EU countries.
Electricity
Switzerland uses Type J plugs (3-pin, distinctive to Switzerland) and 230V/50Hz. Most hotels provide adaptors or have compatible sockets — confirm with your accommodation. Universal travel adaptors generally work.
Tipping
Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland, as service is typically included in prices by law. Rounding up a bill or leaving small change is appreciated but not expected.
Useful Resources
- Official tourism information: MySwitzerland.com and the Jungfrau region tourism site (jungfrau.ch)
- Rail and transport planning: sbb.ch
- Trail information: SchweizMobil (schweizmobil.ch)
Safety
Interlaken town is generally considered safe for travellers. Petty crime occurs as in any tourist-heavy destination — keep standard precautions with valuables, particularly at train stations and busy pedestrian areas during peak season.
The primary safety considerations in this region are mountain-related. Weather in the Alps changes rapidly, and conditions at altitude can be severe even in summer. Before undertaking any hiking, climbing, or high-altitude excursion:
- Check official weather forecasts (MeteoSwiss: meteoswiss.admin.ch)
- Consult local trail condition reports
- Carry appropriate gear regardless of forecast
- Inform someone of your planned route and return time
Adventure sports carry inherent risks. Use only operators with verifiable safety records and certified equipment. Do not feel pressured into activities you are not physically prepared for. If you have pre-existing health conditions, consult a physician before participating in activities at high altitude or with significant physical demands.
