Dream alpine destination between turquoise lakes, famous for its adventure sports and its proximity to Switzerland's most iconic peaks.
About Interlaken - Culture, History & Character
The official language is German, although the local dialect is Swiss German. English is spoken fluently by almost everyone in the tourism sector.
Explore the fascinating past of Interlaken and discover how it has developed over the centuries.
Its origins date back to an Augustinian convent founded in 1133. For centuries, the area was a strategic religious and agricultural center due to its location between the two great lakes of the Bernese Oberland.
In the 19th century, Interlaken became an elite tourist destination. The arrival of the railway and the construction of large luxury hotels attracted the European aristocracy, consolidating it as a center of health and fresh air.
In 2026, Interlaken remains a global hub for nature and adventure tourism. It has led the transition towards sustainable tourism in the Alps, integrating electric transport and rigorously protecting its natural environment.
The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of Interlaken through the centuries.
Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system
One of the safest cities in the world.
One of the safest cities in the world.
Small, flat city, ideal for exploring on foot.
Small, flat city, ideal for exploring on foot.
Legendary Swiss efficiency. Trains, boats and funiculars perfectly synchronized.
Legendary Swiss efficiency. Trains, boats and funiculars perfectly synchronized.
Among the priciest destinations: book ahead and watch daily costs.
Among the priciest destinations: book ahead and watch daily costs.
Quiet and focused on hotel bars or backpacker pubs.
Quiet and focused on hotel bars or backpacker pubs.
Culture focused on alpine traditions and mountain life.
Culture focused on alpine traditions and mountain life.
Excellent quality of local products, focused on cheeses, chocolates and alpine cuisine.
Excellent quality of local products, focused on cheeses, chocolates and alpine cuisine.
The ideal place for luxury watches, Swiss army knives and chocolate.
The ideal place for luxury watches, Swiss army knives and chocolate.
Variable alpine climate; beautiful when the sun shines, but unpredictable.
Variable alpine climate; beautiful when the sun shines, but unpredictable.
City designed by and for the visitor.
City designed by and for the visitor.
A paradise for families who love nature and outdoor activities.
A paradise for families who love nature and outdoor activities.
Switzerland is a very progressive and respectful country.
Switzerland is a very progressive and respectful country.
The locals are polite and very accustomed to international tourism.
The locals are polite and very accustomed to international tourism.
Possibly one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
Possibly one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
A charming mix of grand Belle Époque hotels and traditional wooden chalets.
A charming mix of grand Belle Époque hotels and traditional wooden chalets.
Important as a pioneer of modern alpine tourism.
Important as a pioneer of modern alpine tourism.
The city itself is a green space surrounded by wild nature.
The city itself is a green space surrounded by wild nature.
Impeccable Swiss cleanliness standards in streets, parks and transport.
Impeccable Swiss cleanliness standards in streets, parks and transport.
Small ecosystem, focused mainly on tourism technology and sports.
Small ecosystem, focused mainly on tourism technology and sports.
Good infrastructure but very high cost of living for long stays.
Good infrastructure but very high cost of living for long stays.
Comprehensive assessment of this destination
Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar Interlaken y qué esperar durante todo el año.
Variable alpine climate; beautiful when the sun shines, but unpredictable.
Fresh and pure air.
Four very marked seasons.
Rain or fog can ruin mountain views.
The weather can change quickly in the mountains. It is always recommended to dress in layers.
Summer is the peak season for adventure, while winter attracts snow lovers.
Spectacular melting snow, waterfalls in their maximum splendor and green meadows.
Ideal climate for hiking, paragliding and lake activities.
Vibrant autumn colors and crystal clear air. Fewer tourists.
Magical snowy landscape. Perfect base for skiing in the nearby resorts.
Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas
Daily spending per person
Interlaken is an expensive destination, in line with the Swiss standard of living. Transportation and mountain activities are the main expenses.
per day
per day
per day
Best Areas
2 areas
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2 areas
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2 areas
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Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer
The official viewpoint of Interlaken. A funicular takes you to the top to see the two lakes and the trio of peaks Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
A huge meadow in the center of the city used as a landing zone for paragliders and with unobstructed views of the mountains.
Famous for its intense turquoise color. Ideal for steamboat rides and visiting the Giessbach Falls.
A larger lake surrounded by medieval castles and charming villages. Perfect for water sports.
The most historic and picturesque part of Interlaken, with wooden buildings and a quiet medieval square.
Accessible by historic cog railway, it offers an alpine botanical garden and classic views of the Alps.
Impressive caves with stalactites and interior waterfalls, located above Lake Thun.
A nostalgic leisure park with a funicular, a mountain slide and a large model train.
An icon of luxury hospitality since 1865, the ultimate example of Belle Époque architecture.
The river with emerald waters that connects the two lakes and runs through the city.
Discover fascinating destinations near Interlaken perfect for day getaways
The highest train station in Europe at 3,454 meters. A world of glaciers and eternal snow.
The valley of the 72 waterfalls. A landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale, inspiration for Rivendell.
Famous for its Cliff Walk and adventure activities such as the First Flyer.
Car-free town and the hilltop where James Bond was filmed, with Piz Gloria revolving restaurant.
Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.
Commercial, luxury hotels and the center of the action.
Historic, quiet and with medieval charm on the other side of the river.
More local atmosphere, adventure hostels and craft breweries.
Very traditional adjacent village, ideal for walkers.
Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year
Interlaken is the most popular place in the world for paragliding. You will take off from Beatenberg to land in the city center with views of the Jungfrau.
A unique ice skating experience in the city center, with several rinks connected by ice tunnels and food stalls.
Sailing around Lake Brienz on a restored historic steamboat is the most romantic way to see the Alps.
Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals
One of the largest rock and metal festivals in Switzerland, with the mountains as a backdrop.
Classical music festival that attracts young talent and world-renowned orchestras.
Considered one of the most beautiful and toughest marathons in the world, with a finish line at the foot of the Eiger.
Traditional mask parade to scare away the bad spirits of winter.
Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe
Mountain Safety
Always check the weather report before climbing the peaks. The weather changes in minutes.
Appropriate Equipment
Even in summer, bring something warm if you are going up Jungfraujoch, where temperatures are always below zero.
Adventure Insurance
If you are going to do extreme sports, make sure your travel insurance covers risky activities.
Try the Local Cheese
Look out for 'Hobelkäse' cheese from the Bernese Oberland, it's a much-loved local delicacy.
Alpine water
Don't buy bottled water. The water from public fountains is one of the best in the world and free.
Reserve for Fondue
In high season, popular fondue restaurants fill up quickly. Reserve in advance.
Swiss Travel Pass
If you are going to move around Switzerland a lot, this pass is essential. Includes trains, boats and discounts on funiculars.
Interlaken Guest Card
Your accommodation will give it to you for free. Includes local bus transportation and discounts on some attractions.
Two Seasons
Interlaken has two stations: West and Ost. Most trains to the mountains leave from Interlaken Ost.
Punctuality
In Switzerland, 5 minutes late is too late. The trains leave exactly on time.
Night Silence
From 10:00 p.m., silence is greatly respected in residential areas and hotels.
Tourist Tax
You pay per night per person (approx. 3.50 CHF). In exchange you receive the Guest Card.
Drones
There are strict restrictions on flying drones in protected natural areas and near heliports.
Sun Protection
In the mountains the sun is much stronger due to the altitude and the reflection of the snow. Use high protection.
Sunset at Harder Kulm
Hop on for the last turn of the funicular to watch the sunset over the lakes; It is less crowded and more magical.
Hidden Towns
Visit Iseltwald on Lake Brienz for a quiet, authentic Swiss village experience.
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