Things to do in Interlaken

Let me get straight to the point: Interlaken, nestled between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun in the Swiss Bernese Oberland, is one of those places where nature simply overwhelms you – with majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes and crisp mountain air. As for the weather in Interlaken: from mild summers to snowy winters. In summer, the average maximum temperature hovers around 22–24 °C, while winter temperatures drop to an average of 0 °C and nights can fall to −10 °C, with guaranteed snow between December and March. In short: from winter in Interlaken to sun-drenched summer days – you get it all!

Wondering what to do in Interlaken? I’ve compiled all the top activities and attractions for you, so you can make the most of your trip:

• E-bike tour with Baja Bikes
• Tandem paragliding tour above the Jungfrau region
• Adrenaline on the canyon swing in Grindelwald
• Jet boat ride on Lake Brienz
• Cable car to Harder Kulm
• Day trip to Jungfraujoch
• Winter hiking or snowshoeing
• Visit to Thun and castle
• Boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz

Bike tour in Interlaken with Baja Bikes

My personal favourite: the Interlaken bike tour by Baja Bikes. With an e-bike and local guide, you tour for around 2.5 hours past places including:
Unterseen, a medieval castle, and both lakes (Thun & Brienz). Along the way you’ll taste Swiss cheese, chocolate and a local beer (non-alcoholic is also an option). With a helmet, sunglasses and rain jacket, you’re good to go. Absolutely ideal for things to do in Interlaken with friends or family!

Summer activities in Interlaken

As soon as the snow gives way to green alpine meadows and bright blue skies, Interlaken truly comes alive. In summer, the lakes are perfect for a refreshing dip or a boat trip.
Tip: a panoramic cruise on Lake Thun at sunset is truly magical! I personally found rafting on the Lütschine a real highlight – you can book this excursion here. There are also countless outdoor adventures: go hiking to Schynige Platte, book an e-bike tour with Baja Bikes or reserve a canyoning tour for some extra adrenaline. And definitely don’t miss Harder Kulm for a summer sunset above the mountains. For families, there are treasure hunts, cable cars and children’s farms in the mountains.

In short: whether you love action, relaxation or family fun – summer in Interlaken never disappoints!

Winter activities in Interlaken

I’ve also visited Interlaken in winter: what a fairytale! The region offers:

• Winter hiking and snowshoe walks along snow-covered pine trees.

• Cross-country skiing, tobogganing, ice climbing and even winter kayaking on Lake Brienz.

• Paragliding above a snowy landscape – incredible views guaranteed!
  So if you’re wondering about winter in Interlaken: yes, it’s magical – even without skiing!

Fancy some extra adrenaline during your stay in Interlaken? Then you’ve come to the right place! This region is known as the outdoor capital of Europe – and believe me, that’s not an exaggeration. Whether you want to fly, glide, jump or race across the water: Interlaken is the place for unforgettable adventures. Below are my top 3 for the real daredevils:

1. Tandem paragliding

Do you dare? From Amisbühl you glide together with a pilot over the valley, with views of the Jungfrau and the two lakes. Pure adrenaline! You can buy tickets for tandem paragliding here.

2. Canyon swing in Grindelwald

Bungee? No way, much higher: you plunge into a canyon at speed. Laugh out loud (or scream)! Reserve your tickets for the canyon swing in Grindelwald via this link.

3. Jet boat experience on Lake Brienz

In a jet boat you race across Lake Brienz – scenic and thrilling. Water in your face? Check!

Breathtaking views from Harder Kulm

For those seeking peace, nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, Harder Kulm is a must. From the centre of Interlaken, you simply step into the funicular, which takes you up 1,322 metres in ten minutes. At the top, a fairytale view awaits over Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the iconic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau in the background – and believe me, that panorama platform (with glass floor!) is no unnecessary luxury. You feel completely on top of the world for a moment. There’s also a mountain restaurant where you can have lunch or simply enjoy a cappuccino with views that need no filter! Buy your ticket for the Harder Kulm funicular here.

Day trip to Jungfraujoch

And then there’s the absolute queen of all day trips: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. This bucket-list experience begins at the station in Interlaken, where you board via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen for a spectacular train journey right through the Alps. Along the way, you pass picturesque villages, steep mountain walls and green alpine meadows, before making the impressive climb upwards via the cogwheel railway.

After a journey of about 2.5 hours, you’re standing at Europe’s highest train station, at no less than 3,454 metres altitude. There unfolds an ice-cold world of glaciers, snow and unprecedented views. You can explore the Ice Palace – carved entirely from ice – or breathlessly enjoy the view over the Aletsch Glacier, Europe’s longest, outside on the Sphinx terraces. Don’t forget your sunglasses, because that snow reflects everything.

I found it almost surreal myself: there you suddenly are in the middle of summer in the snow, with a view you normally only see on postcards. Whether you come for the snow fun, the view or simply to say you’ve done it: a day trip to Jungfraujoch is a unique experience you mustn’t miss during your holiday in Interlaken.

Book your tickets to Jungfraujoch here.

Walking & hiking in the region

During summer and winter: there are endless hiking routes:

• Along lakes, through forests. Routes to Mürren, Schynige Platte, Lauterbrunnen

• Winter trails are well marked, hiking without a car is easily possible with Swiss public transport.
  My tip: follow hiking paths along Lake Brienz.

Perfect accommodations

Tip: Looking for accommodation with parking or close to the station (handy for getting to Interlaken by train)? Then choose accommodation near Interlaken Ost or West. For a romantic stay, the boutique hotels in Interlaken are highly recommended.

Handy tips & good to know

• Interlaken often serves as a base camp for excursions to Jungfrau, Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen.

• Public transport: trains and buses are super efficient. Golden Pass Express and Glacier Express are highly recommended. Tickets via SBB.

• Parking in Interlaken is available at P+R facilities and station garages; park & ride is cheaper than city centre garages.

• Best time to visit? Summer for hikes, winter for snow activities. But it’s truly versatile in spring or autumn, outside high season. If you’re looking for something quieter with better light, choose May/June or September.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Interlaken

Is one day in Interlaken enough?
For a quick impression, yes, but for the best experience: plan on 2–4 days to truly experience the highlights and surrounding area.

Can I visit Interlaken with children?
Absolutely! Paragliding, boat trips, E-bike tours (from age 16), winter hikes, Harder Kulm — ideal for Interlaken with kids.

What should I pack for winter in Interlaken?
Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, thermal underwear, gloves, winter boots and sunglasses. Cable car rides higher up: bring extra warm clothing.

What’s the weather like in Interlaken?
Summers mild (22–24 °C), winters cold down to −10 °C. Precipitation: 70 mm in February, up to 146 mm in July/August. Snow definitely present from December to March en.wikipedia.orgweather-atlas.commyswissalps.com.

Where can I find boutique hotels, apartments or B&Bs?
In the old town, near the station, or between the lakes. Often with free breakfast and parking. Book early, especially during holiday periods.

Where’s the best place to park in Interlaken?
In Interlaken you can park in one of the covered car parks, at the station or in public parking areas. Popular options are Parkhaus Zentrum (near Höheweg), Parkhaus Metropole, and P+R Interlaken Ost. These are all within walking distance of the centre and various attractions.

Is parking in Interlaken expensive?
Parking rates vary between CHF 1.50 and CHF 3.00 per hour. For day rates you usually pay between CHF 10 and CHF 25, depending on location and season. Weekends or peak periods can be busier.

Can I park for free in Interlaken?
Free parking is limited. In some suburbs of Interlaken you’ll find free parking spots, but these often have no guarantee of availability and are further from the centre. Consider a P+R option with public transport connection to the centre.

Whether you’re coming for the highlights of Interlaken, want to walk, hike, mountain bike, seek adventure for young and old, or simply enjoy Swiss air and views – Interlaken offers it all. Take the train, drive, walk or book a bike tour with Baja Bikes, and let yourself be amazed by the versatility of this magical destination.