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Things to do in Interlaken go far beyond adrenaline-packed adventures—this alpine town offers a rare mix of soaring mountain views, turquoise lakes, peaceful hikes, and authentic Swiss culture. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland and one of Switzerland’s most unforgettable destinations.
Whether you want to paraglide over the Alps, explore waterfall-filled valleys, or uncover local food and scenic viewpoints most tourists miss, this guide covers the very best experiences Interlaken has to offer.
Interlaken is often called the adventure capital of Europe, but it is so much more than just a jumping-off point for adrenaline junkies. Nestled between the emerald waters of Lake Thun and the turquoise depths of Lake Brienz, this Swiss gem is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland.
Whether you are looking to soar over the Alps, dive into J.R.R. Tolkien’s inspiration for Rivendell, or simply find the best fondue in town, this guide covers it all. We’ve analyzed the top travel experiences to bring you a definitive list that blends the "must-dos" with hidden gems most tourists miss.
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The "Big Three": Essential Interlaken Experiences
If you only have one day, start here. These are the heavy hitters that define an Interlaken trip.
1. Paragliding Over the Lakes
Every guide mentions this for a reason: it is arguably the best place in the world to paraglide. Unlike skydiving, you don’t "jump" off a cliff; you run down a gentle slope until the wind catches your chute.
Insider Tip: Book a morning slot (around 8:00 or 9:00 AM). The air is clearer, there is less thermal turbulence, and the lighting on the Jungfrau massif is spectacular for photos. Most flights land in the Höhematte park in the center of town—a perfect entrance to your day.
Sunset at Harder Kulm
At 1,322 meters, the "Top of Interlaken" offers a bird’s-eye view of both lakes and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. While the funicular ride up is thrilling (an incline of 64%!), the real secret is the timing.
Beat the Crowds: Most tourists go for lunch. Instead, head up one hour before sunset. The crowds thin out, and you can watch the alpenglow turn the snowy peaks pink while enjoying a beer on the panoramic deck.
3. Cruise Lake Brienz and Lake Thun
● Lake Brienz (Turquoise): The water is glacier-fed and strikingly blue. Take the ferry to Iseltwald (famous for the Crash Landing on You filming location) or visit the thundering Giessbach Falls.
● Lake Thun (Deep Blue): Larger and often windier, ideal for sailing. This lake is home to the St. Beatus Caves and fairytale castles like Oberhofen.
● Recommendation: Use your Swiss Travel Pass or Guest Card for free or discounted boat rides.
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Adventure & Hiking
Switzerland is best explored on foot, with trails ranging from gentle walks to epic climbs.
4. Schynige Platte Ridge Hike
Take the historic cogwheel train (dating back to 1893) up to Schynige Platte. From here, the Panorama Trail offers views that rival any in the country.
The Route: It’s a 6km loop that takes you through alpine gardens and past jagged ridges. If you are fit, hike the full 16km trail from Schynige Platte to First—it's a bucket-list trek for hikers.
5. Explore the St. Beatus Caves
Logistics: Don't drive here; parking is a nightmare in summer. Take the bus (Line 21) from Interlaken West or the ferry to the "Beatushöhlen-Sundlauenen" stop.
6. Kayak on Lake Brienz
For a calmer adventure, rent a sea kayak (or book a guided tour with Hightide Kayak). Unlike the ferry, a kayak lets you touch the vertical cliffs and paddle underneath the overhangs. Winter kayaking is also available—dry suits included!
7. The Canyon Swing or Bungy Jump
If paragliding was too tame, head to the Stockhorn Bungy (jumping from a gondola) or the Canyon Swing in Grindelwald, where you free-fall into a narrow gorge.
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Day Trips: The "Rivendell" Region
Interlaken is the hub, but the magic lies in the valleys just 20 minutes away.
8. Lauterbrunnen(Valley of 72 Waterfalls)
This valley inspired Tolkien’s Rivendell. Walk to the Staubbach Fall(one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe) or take the elevator inside the mountain to view the Trümmelbach Falls, which drain the mighty glaciers.
9. Grindelwald-First "Top of Adventure"
Take the gondola from Grindelwald to "First." Here you can find the Cliff Walk (a metal walkway clinging to the mountain), the First Flyer zip line, and Trottibike scooters to ride back down to the village.
10. Mürren and the Schilthorn
For James Bond fans, the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant at the top of the Schilthorn is a must (featured in On Her Majesty's Secret Service). On your way down, stop in the car-free village of Mürren for a quintessential Swiss village vibe without the cars.
11. Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe
Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s touristy. But standing at 3,454 meters on the Aletsch Glacier is unforgettable.
Budget Tip: If the ticket price makes your eyes water, the trip to Kleine Scheidegg offers 80% of the views at a fraction of the cost, and you can hike down to Wengen from there.
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Relaxation & Culture
When your legs are tired from hiking, slow down with these options.
12. Hot Tubs and Spas
● Boat Sauna: You can rent a "Hot Tug" (a hot tub boat) on Lake Brienz. Floating in 38°C water while surrounded by snow-capped peaks is a surreal experience.
● Wellness: For a luxury soak, visit the Hotel BEATUS Victoria-Jungfrau in Interlaken for world-class spa treatments.
13. Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg
A short bus ride away, this massive open-air museum showcases over 100 historic Swiss buildings relocated from across the country. It’s living history with cheesemaking, woodcarving, and farm animals—perfect for families.
14. Chocolate & Cheese
● Funky Chocolate Club: Take a workshop and make your own chocolate bars.
● Chalet Fondue: For an authentic dinner, head to Restaurant Laterne or Hirschen for cheese fondue and raclette.
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Local Secrets (Rank Higher with These Gems)
These are the spots the other blogs often miss.
15. The "Other" Viewpoint: Hardergrat
While everyone goes to Harder Kulm, experienced hikers should look at the Hardergrat Trail. Even walking just the first section away from the restaurant offers solitude and sharper ridge views without the selfie sticks.
16. Aare Gorge (Aareschlucht)
Located near Meiringen, this narrow gorge features a walkway built into the limestone walls just inches above the rushing milky-blue river. It’s cooler on hot days and incredibly photogenic.
17. Rugenbräu Brewery
Interlaken has its own brewery! Visit the Rugenbräu taproom to try the local lager or their single malt whisky. It’s a great rainy-day activity.
18. Burgseeli
Skipping the freezing lakes? Burgseeli is a small natural moor lake near Interlaken. Because it’s smaller and sheltered, the water gets much warmer (up to 26°C) than the big glacial lakes. It’s where the locals go to swim.
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Practical Logistics
● The Guest Card: When you check into a hotel or hostel in Interlaken, you receive a Visitor's Card. This gives you free public transport in Interlaken and discounts on the Harder Kulm funicular.
● Jungfrau Travel Pass: If you plan on doing Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald-First, and Schynige Platte, buy this pass. It usually pays for itself after 2-3 mountain excursions.
● Parking: Interlaken is strict on parking. Use the designated P-lots or park at the Interlaken Ost train station for the day. Avoid street parking in the residential zones.
● Water: You can drink from almost any fountain you see in the town or on hiking trails unless marked "Kein Trinkwasser."
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Final Thoughts
Interlaken is the rare destination that lives up to the hype. Whether you are drinking a Rugenbräu after a paragliding flight or silently watching the waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen, the scenery is unparalleled.
Ready to go? Check the weather cams before booking mountain excursions—Swiss weather changes fast!
