10 Top Tourist Attractions in Interlaken, Switzerland

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is a picturesque town that serves as a gateway to some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. With its stunning mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and abundance of outdoor activities, Interlaken has become a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions that make Interlaken a must-visit destination.

Explore the sights of Interlaken in this captivating video.

1. Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm, often referred to as Interlaken’s local mountain, offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding Alps, lakes, and the town below. At 1,322 meters above sea level, it provides a stunning vantage point that captures the essence of the Swiss landscape.

How to Experience Harder Kulm

To reach the summit, visitors can take a funicular railway that departs from Interlaken Ost station. The journey takes about 10 minutes and is an experience in itself, offering beautiful views as you ascend. At the top, you’ll find the Two-Lakes Bridge, a viewing platform that extends out over the edge of the mountain, providing a thrilling perspective of the lakes and mountains. The Panorama Restaurant at the summit serves traditional Swiss cuisine, allowing you to dine while enjoying the breathtaking scenery[1].

2. Schynige Platte

Schynige Platte

Schynige Platte is a mountain ridge that offers some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the region. It’s known for its botanical alpine garden and panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

Exploring Schynige Platte

To reach Schynige Platte, take the historic cogwheel train from Wilderswil, just outside Interlaken. The journey itself is a nostalgic experience, as the railway has been in operation since 1893. Once at the top, you can explore the Alpine garden, which showcases over 600 plant species native to the Swiss Alps. The hiking trails offer various difficulty levels, catering to both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear traditional alphorn performances, which often take place at the summit during the summer months[1][2].

3. Höhematte Park

Höhematte Park

Höhematte Park is a 14-acre green space in the heart of Interlaken, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. It’s known for its flower gardens, open spaces, and unobstructed views of the Jungfrau massif.

Activities in Höhematte Park

The park is a hub of activity, especially during the summer months. It’s a popular landing spot for paragliders, offering spectators a chance to watch these colorful canopies descend from the sky. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. For those seeking a quiet moment, the well-maintained flower beds and walking paths provide a serene environment for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with a view of the Alps[1][4].

4. Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

Interlaken is uniquely positioned between two stunning alpine lakes: Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Each lake has its own character and offers a variety of activities for visitors.

Exploring the Lakes

Lake Thun, with its deep blue waters, is surrounded by picturesque towns and medieval castles. A boat cruise on Lake Thun allows you to visit charming lakeside villages like Spiez and Oberhofen, known for their beautiful castles. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing.

Lake Brienz, known for its turquoise waters, offers a more tranquil experience. A cruise on Lake Brienz takes you past dramatic mountain scenery and waterfalls. The Giessbach Falls, which cascade down into the lake, are a highlight of any trip on Lake Brienz. Both lakes offer swimming opportunities during the summer months, with numerous beaches and lidos along their shores[4][5].

5. Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

While not in Interlaken itself, the Jungfraujoch is one of the most popular day trips from the town. Often called the “Top of Europe,” it’s the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters above sea level.

The Journey to Jungfraujoch

The trip to Jungfraujoch is an adventure in itself. From Interlaken, you’ll take a scenic train journey through the Bernese Oberland, passing through charming mountain villages like Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. The final leg of the journey is on the Jungfrau Railway, which tunnels through the Eiger and Mönch mountains.

At the top, you’ll find an array of attractions including the Ice Palace, a network of ice tunnels filled with ice sculptures, and the Sphinx Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in Europe. On clear days, you can see as far as Germany’s Black Forest and France’s Vosges mountains[5].

6. St. Beatus Caves

St. Beatus Caves

Located on the shores of Lake Thun, the St. Beatus Caves offer a fascinating underground adventure. These limestone caves, steeped in legend, provide a unique glimpse into the geological history of the region.

Exploring the Caves

The caves are named after St. Beatus, a 6th-century monk who, according to legend, drove a dragon from the caves. Today, visitors can explore over a kilometer of illuminated walkways that wind through the cave system, showcasing stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams.

The site also includes a museum that details the history and geology of the caves, as well as a restaurant with panoramic views of Lake Thun. The approach to the caves is equally impressive, with a series of waterfalls cascading down the cliff face. The combination of natural beauty, geological interest, and mythical history makes the St. Beatus Caves a unique attraction in the Interlaken area[3][5].

7. Schilthorn

Schilthorn

The Schilthorn, rising to 2,970 meters, offers one of the most spectacular panoramas in the Alps. It’s famous for its revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, which was featured in the 1969 James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.”

The Schilthorn Experience

The journey to the Schilthorn is an attraction in itself. From Interlaken, you’ll travel through the beautiful Lauterbrunnen Valley, known as the “Valley of 72 Waterfalls.” A series of cable cars takes you up to the summit, offering breathtaking views along the way.

At the top, the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant completes a full rotation every 45 minutes, providing diners with a 360-degree view of over 200 mountain peaks. The “Bond World” exhibition celebrates the mountain’s connection to the 007 franchise, while the Skyline Walk and Thrill Walk offer adventurous visitors heart-pounding views of the surrounding peaks and valleys[5].

8. Unterseen

Unterseen

Unterseen, a charming old town adjacent to Interlaken, offers a glimpse into the area’s history and traditional Swiss architecture. This often-overlooked gem provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling tourist center of Interlaken.

Exploring Unterseen

Wander through the narrow streets of Unterseen to admire the well-preserved wooden chalets, some dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The town’s central square, Stadthausplatz, is particularly picturesque, with its historic buildings and the 14th-century town church.

Don’t miss the opportunity to cross the old wooden bridge over the Aare River, which offers beautiful views of the rushing water below. Unterseen is also home to several cozy restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner away from the crowds[4].

9. Paragliding

Interlaken Paragliding

For thrill-seekers and those looking for a unique perspective on the landscape, paragliding is one of the most popular activities in Interlaken. The town is considered one of the best places in Europe for this exhilarating sport.

Taking to the Skies

Tandem flights with experienced pilots are available for beginners, allowing you to soar over the lakes and mountains without any prior experience. Flights typically take off from nearby peaks like Beatenberg or Niederhorn and land in Höhematte Park in the center of Interlaken.

During the flight, you’ll have unparalleled views of the turquoise lakes, lush valleys, and snow-capped peaks of the Bernese Oberland. The sensation of floating silently above this stunning landscape is truly unforgettable. Many operators offer video and photo packages, allowing you to relive your adventure long after you’ve returned to solid ground[4][5].

Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg

10. Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg

Located just a short distance from Interlaken, the Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg offers visitors a fascinating journey through Switzerland’s rural past. This living museum showcases traditional Swiss architecture, crafts, and ways of life.

Experiencing Swiss Heritage

Spread over 66 hectares, Ballenberg features over 100 original, centuries-old buildings that have been carefully relocated from all over Switzerland. These include farmhouses, barns, workshops, and other rural structures, each furnished to reflect its original time period and region.

Visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts such as cheese-making, weaving, and blacksmithing. The museum also houses a variety of native Swiss livestock breeds, adding to the authentic rural atmosphere. With its beautiful natural setting and wealth of historical information, Ballenberg provides a unique and immersive look at Swiss cultural heritage[5].

Where to Stay

Interlaken offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences.

  • Luxury: The Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa offers 5-star amenities and stunning views of the Jungfrau.
  • Mid-range: Hotel Interlaken, one of the oldest hotels in town, and Hotel Bellevue, which offers comfortable rooms with mountain views.
  • Budget: Budget travelers can consider the Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof or the Happy Inn Lodge for affordable and social accommodation.

How to Get There

Interlaken is well-connected to major Swiss cities by train. Direct trains run from Zurich, Basel, and Geneva, with the journey taking about 2-3 hours. The town has two main railway stations: Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West. For those arriving by car, Interlaken is accessible via well-maintained highways from all directions. The nearest airports are in Bern (45 minutes by car) and Zurich (2 hours by train).

Best Time to Visit

Interlaken is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm.

  • Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, ideal for hiking, paragliding, and lake activities. The weather is warm and sunny, but it can get crowded.
  • Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Winter (December to March) transforms Interlaken into a winter wonderland, ideal for skiing and winter sports in the nearby Alps. However, some attractions may have limited operations during this time.

In conclusion, Interlaken offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and Swiss charm. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful nature experiences, this Alpine paradise has something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes and diverse attractions, Interlaken truly deserves its reputation as one of Switzerland’s most captivating destinations.

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