Top Things To Do in Interlaken, Switzerland

Dive into the top things to do in Interlaken and discover why this Swiss mountain town captures so many hearts. From riding up to Harder Kulm to drifting across Lake Brienz, every day here comes with a view and a bit of magic.

It’s no surprise that Interlaken is on everyone’s bucket list. With its turquoise lakes, snow-dusted peaks, and postcard-perfect alpine charm, this small Swiss town packs in some of the most unforgettable experiences in the country. 

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen or paragliding over Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, the best tours and experiences in Interlaken make it easy to fall in love with this alpine gem. If you’re still in the planning stage, explore the biggest selection of Interlaken travel packages to find the right fit for your trip.

Ready to fill your bucket list with unforgettable experiences? Keep reading for the top things to do in Interlaken. And when you’re ready to go, don’t forget to browse affordable flights to Switzerland!

13. Discover the Giessbach Waterfalls Near Interlaken

Tumbling in tiers down a forested cliffside into the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz, the Giessbach Waterfalls are one of the best places to visit near Interlaken. Visiting the falls is not only a beautiful nature experience; it’s also one of the top things to do in Interlaken if you want to explore beyond the usual routes.

Most visitors start in Brienz, just 20 minutes by car from Interlaken. A short ferry ride from Brienz, followed by a funicular ride or gentle hike, brings you to the falls, which crash through 14 cascades before reaching the lake. It’s a peaceful escape with panoramic lake and mountain views, yet still close enough for a half-day trip from town. 

The historic Grandhotel Giessbach, perched above the falls, adds to the fairytale setting. You can even walk behind one of the cascades on a hidden trail for a close-up view. 

The waterfalls are often included as a stop on a private day tour of Interlaken’s highlights, especially when pairing scenic Lake Brienz views with visits to quiet alpine villages. With a private tour, you can move at your own pace, skip the crowded spots, and enjoy more time in places like Giessbach and Staubbach Waterfalls.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Bring hiking shoes with good traction if you plan to hike; the trail behind the falls can get slippery.
• The best light for photos is in the morning or late afternoon, when the falls catch the sun.
• Check ferry times in advance, especially outside summer. Giessbach is best reached by boat.
• Grab a coffee or cake at the Grandhotel terrace for an unbeatable view.

12. Explore St. Beatus Caves From Interlaken

Just 15 minutes by car from the center of Interlaken, the St. Beatus Caves are one of the most fascinating natural landmarks near the city. Set high on a forested cliffside overlooking Lake Thun, the caves stretch more than a kilometer into the mountain and are filled with otherworldly rock formations, underground streams, and softly lit walkways. 

Outside, the views over the lake and surrounding peaks are just as stunning. Visiting these caves is often ranked among the top things to do in Interlaken, not just for the natural beauty but for the legend too.

According to local folklore, a dragon once lived in the cave until it was banished by St. Beatus, a monk who made the site his sanctuary. Today, you can visit the small museum at the entrance and then explore at your own pace. 

For a convenient and well-paced experience, consider joining a small-group tour from Interlaken to Beatus Caves, Blue Lake, and Lake Thun. Day tours often include guided insights, comfortable transport, and enough time to enjoy the cliffside trails, lakeside views, and hidden gems along the way.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Drive or take the bus early to avoid the midday crowds. Mornings are quieter and cooler, especially in summer.
• Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, as some parts inside the cave can be slippery or uneven.
• Don’t skip the outdoor terrace by the entrance cafe. It’s one of the best lake viewpoints near Interlaken.
• Bring a jacket. Even in summer, cave temperatures hover around 46 to 50 F (8 to 10 C).
• Consider a private day tour of Interlaken’s highlights for a curated and time-efficient experience if you’re short on time.

11. Relax at the Scenic Hohematte Park

Hohematte Park is the green heart of Interlaken—an open meadow in the center of the town, offering stunning views of the Jungfrau Massif. Unwinding here is one of the top things to do in Interlaken for a slow-paced break after city sightseeing tours or between mountain adventures. 

Paragliders often land right here, their colorful chutes floating down in front of snow-covered peaks, adding to the already cinematic vibe. There are benches, flower beds, and walking paths throughout, and on sunny days, both locals and visitors come here to picnic, read, or simply people-watch.

This space isn’t just for relaxation. If you’re visiting Switzerland in June to August, you might catch outdoor events like Summer Stage Interlaken or open-air yoga sessions. In winter, there’s a small ice skating rink that pops up, surrounded by twinkling lights and a warm drinks stand. 

Visiting this park is truly one of the top things to do in Interlaken year-round. Whether you're winding down after a hike or waiting for a train, Hohematte is one of those rare places that feels both peaceful and alive at the same time. 

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Visit at golden hour for incredible photo ops with soft light hitting the Jungfrau Mountain.
• Bring a snack or picnic. The Coop across the street makes it easy to grab something fresh.
• Check for pop-up Christmas stalls and the ice rink on the east side of the park when visiting Switzerland in December.
• Sit near the Victoria Jungfrau Hotel to see paragliders land right in front of you. It's one of the park’s most iconic views.

10. Join Canyoning or Rafting Near Interlaken

If you're looking for a thrill, canyoning and white-water rafting are easily among the top things to do in Interlaken, especially in the summer months. The city sits between fast-moving rivers and glacier-fed gorges, making it a natural hub for high-thrill water adventures.

One of the most popular routes is the Lutschine River, which runs through a spectacular alpine valley with Class III–IV rapids. Lutschine white-water rafting offers a thrilling descent from the glaciers of the Eiger Region, perfect for adrenaline lovers looking to tackle fast, icy waters just outside Interlaken.

For something a bit more mellow, guided rafting in the Simme River is ideal. It’s great for first-timers or those who just want a scenic splash. Transport from Interlaken takes around 30 minutes one way by car or group transfer.

Canyoning takes the adventure up a notch. In places like Grimsel, about 37 miles (60 km) southeast of Interlaken, you’ll rappel down waterfalls, leap off cliffs, slide through smooth rock chutes, and swim in icy pools carved into granite. A Grimsel canyoning trip is a full-body experience in some of the most dramatic alpine gorges near Interlaken.

For more experienced adventurers, Chli Schliere canyoning offers the most advanced canyoning in the region. It’s roughly 35 miles (56 km) from Interlaken, and the experience is intense, technical, and incredibly rewarding.

Whether you're rafting or canyoning, these tours are led by certified guides who provide all gear and safety briefings. They’re among the top things to do in Interlaken if you want to experience the raw, wild side of the Bernese Alps.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Book at least two weeks in advance in summer (June–September) when the weather is ideal for water adventures. Popular time slots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
• Wear a swimsuit under your clothes and bring a towel. Changing facilities are often basic or outdoors.
• Don’t bring valuables. Many tours offer lockers, but it’s best to leave anything non-essential behind.
• Listen carefully to your guides. The rivers here are no joke, and safety comes first.
• Bring a GoPro or rent one if you want footage of your adventure (check if your helmet has a mount).

9. Stroll the Old Town of Unterseen

Tucked beside the more famous Interlaken center, Unterseen offers a quieter, more historic charm that many travelers overlook. With cobbled streets, centuries-old chalets, and views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau peaks, wandering this old town is easily one of the top things to do in Interlaken.

Along the Marktgasse, you’ll find cozy cafes, a historic clock tower, and traditional shops selling Swiss goods. It’s a great spot to grab a slice of fruit tart or sip coffee while taking in the charming view.

Guided city walking tours often lead you through Unterseen, Casino Interlaken, and the Japanese Garden. If you want a chance to slow down, notice the old town’s details, and hear the stories that shaped this riverside settlement, a private walking tour in Interlaken is highly recommended. 

For a more active way to explore, an e-bike tour of Interlaken Valley lets you cover more ground. You’ll ride along the Aare River, passing meadows and small farms, and gliding into Unterseen with fresh mountain air in your lungs. It’s scenic, breezy, and ideal for those who want to see both nature and neighborhoods.

If you're after something more immersive, a private city tour of Interlaken with Harder Kulm excursion blends the town's rich history with breathtaking panoramic views. You’ll spend time in both historic quarters and ride up to a summit lookout, connecting the valley’s cultural and alpine sides in one slow-paced, insightful outing.

Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just in need of a break from the adrenaline, strolling through Unterseen is one of the top things to do in Interlaken.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Visit in the morning when the streets are quiet and the mountain light is perfect for photos.
• Drop by the Stadtkeller museum if you’re interested in local history.
• Grab a coffee at one of the family-run bakeries. They often serve seasonal specialties you won’t find elsewhere, like Nidelkuchen (a creamy caramel tart), Zwetschgenwahe (plum tart in late summer), or buttery Grittibanz bread figures around Christmas.

8. Learn To Make and Enjoy Swiss Cheese Fondue

If you’re looking for one of the top things to do in Interlaken that mixes culture, food, and fun, consider joining a Swiss fondue cooking class and cheese workshop that goes beyond just eating. These interactive cooking experiences often take place in cozy chalet kitchens where you can watch how the famous dish is made using traditional techniques and sample local cheese. 

More than just a recipe, experiences like this are about the stories, the smells, the first swirl of bread through bubbling cheese, and the laughter shared around the table.

If cooking classes aren’t your thing, consider joining a cheese and chocolate food tour in Interlaken. You’ll pair your fondue tasting with visits to local artisans and indulge in some of Switzerland’s sweetest treats. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, it’s one of the top things to do in Interlaken.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Book your learning experiences in Interlaken in advance. Spots are often limited, especially in high season (mid-June to early September).
• Bring a light sweater, even in summer, as classes are usually held in traditional-style chalets for that cozy alpine vibe.
• Ask about vegetarian or lactose-free options. Some workshops can accommodate dietary needs.
• Check if the workshop provides recipe cards or sells their signature cheese blends. You might be able to recreate the experience back in your own kitchen.

7. Enjoy Scenic Ski Trips Around Interlaken

If you’re visiting in winter, skiing in the Interlaken region is one of the top things to do in Interlaken. With just a short train or bus ride, you can access the Jungfrau Ski Region—home to over 124 miles (200 kilometers) of pistes ranging from gentle beginner slopes to thrilling descents beneath the Eiger’s north face.

Ski trips in Interlaken offer more than just great snow. From the town center, it's about a 30-minute drive to Grindelwald, where you can hop on the gondola and ski beneath the dramatic north face of the Eiger Mountain. 

Wengen, accessible by a 20-minute drive followed by a scenic cogwheel train from Lauterbrunnen, is perfect for long, scenic runs and that classic Swiss mountain village vibe. 

For a quieter experience, Murren sits high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley. You can reach it in about an hour via a combination of train and mountain lift. 

The region also makes a great base for an extended winter break, like an 8-day ski holiday in Lauterbrunnen that gives you time to explore multiple resorts at your own pace. With efficient transport and easy day access to multiple resorts, it's no surprise that skiing in the Jungfrau Ski Region ranks high among the top things to do in Interlaken during winter.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Book ski rentals in advance, especially during peak season (December to February).
• Use the Bernese Oberland Pass if you plan to visit multiple resorts. It covers trains, gondolas, and buses.
• Take an early train to beat the lift lines, especially for popular areas like Grindelwald First.
• Check avalanche reports and weather conditions daily. Use resort info boards, install the White Risk app for avalanche reports, or check the Swiss weather forecast for up-to-date mountain conditions.

• Not skiing? Many resorts offer winter hiking trails and sled runs with equally stunning views.

6. Take a Day Tour to Lauterbrunnen 

Taking a day trip to Lauterbrunnen is one of the top things to do in Interlaken, especially if you’re drawn to dramatic scenery and charming alpine villages. Just 9 miles (14 km) from Interlaken, this stunning U-shaped valley is lined with sheer cliffs and dotted with waterfalls.

One of the highlights is the iconic Staubbach Falls, plunging nearly 300 meters (984 feet) from a cliff above the village. Another must-see is Trummelbach Falls—Europe’s largest subterranean waterfalls—where glacial meltwater thunders through a series of tunnels inside the mountain.

For a scenic and hassle-free outing, you can join a small-group day tour from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen and Murren. It’s a great option if you want to explore without worrying about train connections or parking. After walking through Lauterbrunnen’s postcard-worthy village, continue uphill to the car-free village of Murren. 

Whether you’re after natural beauty, fresh air, or peaceful alpine vibes, a day in Lauterbrunnen easily ranks among the top things to do in Interlaken.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Start early if you're coming from Interlaken, especially in summer—morning light on the cliffs is stunning and you'll beat the mid-day crowds.
• Wear waterproof gear if you plan to visit Trummelbach Falls. There's a good chance you'll get sprayed by the glacial water inside the caves.
• Bring snacks or pack a picnic, especially if you plan to hike. While there are restaurants in Lauterbrunnen and Murren, they can get busy or close early.
• Walk beyond the main village toward Stechelberg for a quieter, more scenic experience. This flat path takes you past lush meadows, grazing cows, and multiple lesser-known waterfalls.

5. Uncover the Alpine Beauty of Grindelwald

Located just 12 miles (19 kilometers) from Interlaken, Grindelwald is a picture-perfect mountain village set beneath the dramatic peaks of the Bernese Alps. It’s one of the best day trips you can take from town and easily ranks among the top things to do in Interlaken if you're chasing big mountain views, outdoor fun, and classic Swiss charm. 

From the village, you can ride the gondola with a Grindelwald First ticket that takes you up to panoramic viewpoints high above the valley. At the top, don’t miss the famous Cliff Walk—a narrow metal walkway clinging to the mountainside with sweeping views of the Eiger and surrounding peaks. You can also hike, zipline, or simply soak in the alpine scenery.

To experience even more of the region, consider a small-group day tour through Grindelwald, Kleine Scheidegg, and Lauterbrunnen. This route takes you along some of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine paths, starting in Grindelwald’s glacier-carved valley. 

Then, you’ll climb by cogwheel train to the mountain saddle of Kleine Scheidegg, where you’ll stand in the shadow of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau—an absolute highlight and one of the top things to do in Interlaken for mountain lovers.

From there, descend into Lauterbrunnen’s dramatic U-shaped valley, dotted with over 70 waterfalls, including the plunging Staubbach Falls.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Travel by train if you can. Grindelwald has excellent connections from Interlaken, and the journey itself is incredibly scenic.
• Go early if you're visiting Grindelwald First, especially in summer or ski season, when lines for the gondola get long.
• Dress in layers even in warmer months. Weather in the mountains can shift quickly.
• Grab lunch at the top of Grindelwald First. There are terrace restaurants with unforgettable views.
• Use the Bernese Oberland Pass if you're planning multiple train or gondola rides—it often saves money over single tickets.

4. Sail on Lake Brienz or Lake Thun

Taking to the water is one of the most relaxing ways to explore the region, and a scenic boat ride across Lake Brienz or Lake Thun is easily among the top things to do in Interlaken. 

Lake Brienz, known for its deep turquoise color, is perfect if you want a more peaceful and dramatic route. The ride from Interlaken to Brienz passes charming lakeside towns like Iseltwald and the stunning Giessbach Waterfalls, where you can hop off and explore. 

For something more active, you can join a guided kayak tour of Lake Brienz. It’s a quiet, immersive way to experience the lake up close. 

Or, if you're feeling adventurous, a jetboat ride on Lake Brienz is a fast, fun option that takes you across the water with high-speed spins and incredible views. During the chilly months, a winter jetboat ride adds a frosty twist, combining thrill with snow-covered scenery.

Lake Thun, on the other hand, has a slightly more elegant and historic feel. Cruising from Interlaken to the town of Thun, you'll pass lakeside castles, vineyards, and sweeping mountain backdrops. 

Whether you're after quiet beauty or something more action-packed, spending time on the water is one of the top things to do in Interlaken for travelers of all kinds.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Buy a day pass for Lake Thun and Lake Brienz boat cruises. It offers great value if you plan to explore multiple stops.
• Bring swimwear in summer. Some villages like Iseltwald and Bonigen have public swim spots right by the lake.
• Visit in shoulder season. Spring and autumn offer quieter rides, beautiful colors, and fewer crowds.
• Plan stops in lakeside villages and combine with other activities. Get off at places like Spiez, Brienz, or Thun for castle visits, lakeside cafes, and short hikes.

3. Go on a Day Trip to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Sitting at 11,332 feet (3,454 meters) above sea level, Jungfraujoch is known as the "Top of Europe." You’ll find yourself standing between the famous Monch and Jungfrau peaks, surrounded by permanent snow and ice.

A day trip to Jungfraujoch is easily one of the top things to do in Interlaken, especially if you're after epic views and a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

The journey there is part of the magic. From Interlaken, take a scenic train ride through the Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald valleys, connecting to Europe’s highest railway station. The ride alone is packed with postcard-worthy views. 

On arrival, explore the Ice Palace, step onto the Sphinx Observatory viewing deck, and walk across the Aletsch Glacier—Europe’s longest.

For those who prefer everything taken care of, a guided day trip to Jungfraujoch from Interlaken offers a seamless experience. You’ll benefit from expert commentary, stress-free train connections, and insider tips along the way—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to make the most of their day.

You can also pre-book your admission to Jungfraujoch with a round-trip train ticket to save time and avoid ticket queues, especially during summer. If you're traveling with family or friends, a private tour to Jungfraujoch and Lauterbrunnen is a great way to experience the area at your own pace with a local guide.

No matter how you get there, this glacier adventure is among the top things to do in Interlaken, offering a day of lovely mountain views, fascinating exhibits, and fresh alpine air.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Book your tickets 1 to 3 days in advance. Jungfraujoch is popular year-round. Seats on the cogwheel trains often sell out, and seat reservations are mandatory in peak season, from May to August.
• Go early in the day. Mornings usually have clearer skies, making for better views from the Sphinx Terrace.
• Check the live webcams. Visibility can change quickly in the mountains. Look at the Jungfrau webcams before you leave.
• Dress in layers. Even in summer, it can be below freezing at the top. Bring a windproof jacket, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Bring water and snacks. Food is available at the summit, but pricey. Pack light snacks, especially if traveling with kids.
• Combine with other stops. Make the most of your trip by stopping in Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, or Kleine Scheidegg.
• Use the locker storage. If you're hiking part of the way or traveling light, lockers are available at key stations.

2. Ride the Harder Kulm Funicular for the Best Views

Harder Kulm is often called the "Top of Interlaken"—and for good reason. Just a quick 10-minute funicular ride from the town center takes you 4,337 feet (1,322 meters) above sea level to one of the most stunning viewpoints in the region. 

At the top, a glass-floored platform juts out over the valley, offering sweeping views of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the snow-capped trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

The ride itself is part of the experience. The historic red funicular, in service since 1908, climbs steeply through the forest, making the sudden reveal of the summit all the more breathtaking. 

Once you arrive, you can grab lunch or a drink at the castle-style Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant, which offers equally impressive views from its terrace. 

Harder Kulm is easily one of the top things to do in Interlaken, especially if you want a quick yet unforgettable alpine experience with minimal effort. But if you’re feeling active, there’s also a forest trail that takes you to the summit in around 2.5 hours. You can join a hike to the Harder Kulm summit with a Swiss triathlete for a more challenging (and rewarding) way up.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Go early or late. Mornings and just before sunset are best to avoid crowds and catch soft light over the lakes.
• Book your Harder Kulm funicular ticket ahead. Especially in the summer months, the line for the funicular can get long.
• Bring a jacket. Even on warm days, the summit can be noticeably cooler and breezy.
• Photographers, bring a zoom lens. The views of Jungfrau from the top are worth a close-up.

1. Paraglide Over Interlaken’s Lakes and Mountains

If there’s one experience that captures the magic of the Swiss Alps, it’s paragliding in Interlaken. Floating high above the emerald lakes and rugged peaks, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of everything that makes this town so special. It’s no wonder that paragliding has become one of the top things to do in Interlaken.

Most flights take off from Beatenberg, a launch site perched high above the town. From there, you’ll gently glide over the rooftops of Interlaken, past the turquoise waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the mighty Jungfrau massif rising in the distance. 

A paragliding flight with a pilot over the Jungfrau Region is perfect for beginners. You don’t need any experience, just a sense of adventure and a head for heights.

Paragliding here isn’t just a thrill; it’s a new perspective on one of the most scenic regions in Switzerland. If you're chasing big views and unforgettable moments, this is easily one of the top things to do in Interlaken you won’t want to miss.

Local Tips When Visiting:

• Book in advance. Paragliding tours in Interlaken fill up quickly, especially in summer. Morning flights often have the smoothest conditions.
• Dress in layers. It can get chilly up there, even on warm days. A windbreaker and closed shoes are essential.
• Bring sunglasses. The sunlight reflecting off the lakes and snow-capped peaks can be intense.
• Ask about photos/videos: Most pilots offer in-flight photo and video packages—worth it for the views alone.

Best Time To Visit Interlaken

Though this alpine gem is a year-round destination, the best time to visit Interlaken depends on what kind of trip you're after.

• Spring and Summer (April to early September) are perfect for hiking, lake cruises, and paragliding—some of the top things to do in Interlaken during the warmer months. Switzerland in May is especially stunning, with wildflowers blooming in the valleys. Meanwhile, most mountain trails are fully open by June.
• Autumn (October to November) brings crisp air, golden forests, and far fewer tourists. It's a peaceful time for scenic train rides or relaxing by the lakes.
• Winter (December to March) is magical for snow lovers. Interlaken becomes a base for skiing in nearby resorts like Grindelwald and Wengen, plus it lights up with festive decorations and cozy mountain vibes.

For a broader look at seasonal travel, check out the best time to visit Switzerland based on your interests and preferred weather.

Where To Stay in Interlaken

Choosing the right area to stay in can really shape your Swiss experience. The best hotels and accommodations in Interlaken are spread across several distinct areas, each with its own charm.

If you're here for the lake views and easy access to boat rides or walking trails, stay near Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. 

For a more central base with shops, cafes, and quick transport links to the mountains, Interlaken West or Interlaken Ost are ideal. These make a great base if you're planning to check off multiple top things to do in Interlaken, like hiking to Harder Kulm or exploring Unterseen.

If you prefer a quieter, more local atmosphere, nearby villages like Wilderswil, Lauterbrunnen, or Iseltwald offer peaceful surroundings with quick train or bus access to town. 

How To Get Around Interlaken

Getting around Interlaken and the surrounding Bernese Oberland is easy, thanks to efficient Swiss transport.

Swiss Travel Pass and Bernese Oberland Pass offer unlimited rides on trains, boats, buses, and some cable cars. They’re great if you're planning to check off multiple top things to do in Interlaken.

Local trains and buses are punctual and scenic, connecting Interlaken to places like Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Thun. If you’re exploring remote areas or traveling on a flexible schedule, renting a car in Interlaken is ideal. Just note that parking can be limited in peak seasons.