What to Do in Interlaken: Outdoor Adventures and Tours

Nestled between Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) and Lake Thun (Thunersee), surrounded by the mighty peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, Interlaken is a dream destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re here for hiking, paragliding, chocolate workshops, or simply soaking in the views, there’s something for every traveler. And since Interlaken is also one of the most popular bases when deciding where to stay in Switzerland, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring both lakes and the Jungfrau region.

If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in Interlaken, this guide covers all the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences so you can make the most of your visit.

Explore the Lakes: Brienz vs Thun

Both lakes give Interlaken its magical setting, but each has its own charm.

1. Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) → famous for its turquoise waters, swimming spots, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours. Don’t miss the Giessbach Falls tumbling straight into the lake.
2. Lake Thun (Thunersee) → larger and dotted with castles (Oberhofen, Spiez, Thun). Perfect for a lake cruise, sailing, or relaxing at lakeside cafés.

Scenic Mountain Excursions

No trip to Interlaken is complete without riding a cogwheel train or cable car into the Alps.

1. Harder Kulm – Take the funicular up for the best panorama of Interlaken, Brienz, and Thun.
2. Schynige Platte – A vintage cogwheel train leads to alpine gardens and hiking trails with views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
3. Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe – Europe’s highest railway station, glaciers, ice palace, and 360° views.
4. Schilthorn – Famous for James Bond’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Rotating restaurant + views of over 200 peaks.
5. Niederhorn – A quieter option, with wildlife spotting (ibex, marmots) and scenic hikes.

Best Hikes Around Interlaken

Interlaken is a paradise for walkers. Some top hikes include:

1. Eiger Trail – Up close with the north face of the Eiger.
2. Via Alpina – Cross the Alps through lush valleys and high passes.
3. Lauterbrunnen Valley Walk – 72 waterfalls, alpine meadows, Tolkien’s inspiration for Rivendell.
4. Axalp Woodcarving Trail – A hidden gem above Lake Brienz with carved wooden sculptures along the path.

Adventure Sports Capital of Switzerland

If you came for the thrill, here’s what to do in Interlaken for pure adrenaline:

1. Paragliding – Soar over lakes and valleys.
2. Skydiving – Jump with the Eiger and Jungfrau in sight.
3. Canyoning – Slide, jump, and rappel down waterfalls.
4. Bungee Jumping – From Stockhorn cable car.
5. Rafting & Jetboating – Rush down the Lütschine River or speed across Lake Brienz.

Relaxing Activities & Hidden Gems

Not everything has to be about thrill rides. For slower days:

1. Unterseen – A charming old town with quiet streets and historic vibes.
2. St. Beatus Caves – Explore stalactites, waterfalls, and Swiss legends.
3. Aare Gorge (near Meiringen) – A walkway through narrow canyon walls.
4. Wellness & Spas – Try Hotel BEATUS Spa or Victoria Jungfrau Hotel for world-class relaxation.

Swiss Food & Drink in Interlaken

Eating in Interlaken is as much an experience as sightseeing.

1. Cheese Fondue & Raclette – Classic Alpine dining.
2. Funky Chocolate Club – Make your own Swiss chocolate.
3. Hüsi Bierhaus – Rustic pub with hearty meals and great beer.
4. Rugenbräu Brewery – Local Swiss beer.
5. Top o’Met (Hotel Metropole) – A panoramic restaurant overlooking the town.

Culture & History

• Swiss Folklore Shows – Traditional music, alphorns, and flag-throwing.
• Unterseen’s Stadtkeller Museum – A glimpse into local history.
• J.R.R. Tolkien’s Inspiration – Lauterbrunnen Valley is believed to have inspired Rivendell in Lord of the Rings.

How to Get Around

Getting to and around Interlaken is part of the adventure:

1. Interlaken Ost & West Stations – Main hubs for trains and excursions.
2. GoldenPass Line – Scenic train route from Lucerne to Montreux via Interlaken.
3. Swiss Travel Pass – Unlimited trains, boats, and buses.
4. Cogwheel Trains & Funiculars – Harder Kulm, Schynige Platte, Jungfraubahn.

Where to Stay in Interlaken

• Luxury: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa.
• Mid-range: Hotel Metropole with rooftop views.
• Budget: Backpacker hostels in Interlaken West.
• Unique: Lakeside stays near Brienz or Thun.

Seasonal Things to Do

• Summer – Hiking, paragliding, lake swimming, kayaking.
• Autumn – Golden forests and fewer crowds.
• Winter – Skiing, sledding, snowshoeing in nearby Wengen, Grindelwald, or Kleine Scheidegg.
• Spring – Wildflowers and fresh waterfalls.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

• Morning: Funicular to Harder Kulm.
• Afternoon: Lake Brienz cruise + Giessbach Falls.
• Evening: Dinner at Hüsi Bierhaus.

Day 2:

• Morning: Jungfraujoch excursion.
• Afternoon: Lauterbrunnen Valley walk.
• Evening: Chocolate workshop + sunset by Lake Thun.

Final Thoughts:

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline with paragliding, canyoning, or skydiving, wandering through Unterseen’s cobbled streets, cruising across Lake Brienz and Lake Thun two of the most stunning lakes in Switzerland or indulging in Swiss chocolate and cheese fondue, Interlaken offers endless experiences.

So, if you’re still wondering what to do in Interlaken, the real answer is simple: from mountain adventures to lake escapes, cultural gems to culinary delights, this Swiss town has it all.

FAQs About What to Do in Interlaken