10 things to do in Interlaken in 2024
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Plan to spend a minimum of 3 to 4 nights in Interlaken to explore all the key attractions fully.
1. Jungfraujoch
Embark on a journey from Interlaken Ost station, hopping onto three trains that lead to the highest railway station in Europe. Upon obtaining your Jungfraujoch tickets, venture to the open-air platform for unparalleled views of the Aletsch glacier, surrounded by majestic peaks reaching four thousand meters.
Be sure to check out the Ice Palace, showcasing incredible ice sculptures, and consider trying sledding if time allows. You can either explore independently or join a guided Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe tour.
Travel Tip: Take advantage of the train's viewing stops to acclimatize to higher altitudes. Consider chewing sour sweets to alleviate any potential lightheadedness during the ascent.
2. Harder Kulm
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Experience the finest panorama of Interlaken, its lakes, and the majestic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Dubbed Interlaken's personal mountain, take the funicular to Harder Kulm, easily accessible from Brienzerstrasse, a brief walk from Interlaken Ost station.
Ascend to the 1,322-meter peak in a quick 10-minute journey. Delight in a variety of local cuisine at the charming Panorama restaurant, all while taking in the mesmerizing views.
Stroll across the Two Lakes Bridge, capturing a photo with Switzerland's luckiest cow, enchanted by the view. A visit to Harder Kulm ranks among the top activities in the Interlaken region.
3. Jetboat Ride
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Experience an exhilarating 45-minute ride with high-speed cruising and exciting 360-degree spins that will have you gripping your seats. The journey offers breathtaking scenery and a close-up view of the mesmerizing Giessbach Falls. With a provided splash coat and life jacket, all you need is your courage and sharp instincts!
4. Boat ride on the Lakes
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Explore the quaint neighboring towns around Interlaken through a boat cruise—the ideal way to discover the charm of the region.
Both Lakes Thun and Brienz offer frequent boat departures, providing a leisurely exploration of the surrounding areas.
Disembark in Thun to stroll through the medieval town, explore the lakeside castle, then head to Ringgenberg. Enjoy a dip in its charming Burgseeli and wander through the wooded surroundings.
5. Adventure Sports
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| Photo by Rodrigo Curi on Unsplash |
Interlaken beckons adventure sports enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities tailored to various skill levels and thrill preferences.
Whether your passion lies in the sky or on the water, abundant options await.
Select from white water rafting, canyoning, hang-gliding, paragliding, and skydiving for an adrenaline-packed day, guaranteeing a standout highlight during your stay in Interlaken.
6. St. Beatus Caves
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Explore well-lit pathways spanning a kilometer through this geological site. Delve into the mountain's depths and uncover a mesmerizing realm of stalactites and stalagmites, shaped by nature millions of years ago.
Legend tells of a dragon seeking refuge in these caves, fleeing from the 6th-century monk St. Beat. Whether or not the dragon exists, the caves and surrounding cascading waterfalls are unquestionably worth exploring.
Choose the bus, complimentary with the Swiss Pass, from Interlaken. A short stroll awaits, or for the more energetic, consider taking a boat and climbing your way up to reach the caves.
7. Interlaken Town
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Interlaken is an attraction in its own right. Stroll along Hoheweg, the charming main street connecting Interlaken East and West stations. It hosts numerous watch, jewelry, and souvenir shops, along with cafés and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets.
Explore Hohematte, a 14-hectare green hub at the town center. This park is a favored landing site for hang gliders and paragliders.
Discover the Garden of Friendship, Switzerland's inaugural Japanese garden.
For a thrilling evening, test your luck at Casino Kursaal with table games, including the exciting blackjack— a perfect nighttime activity in Interlaken. Best of luck!
8. Giessbach Falls
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Giessbach Falls is a captivating attraction that will leave you in awe of its beauty. Embark on a short boat cruise and then ascend via a funicular to the Grand Hotel Giessbach for a complete and stunning view of these falls.
For a close-up experience of the falls, consider hiking the entire way. Certain sections lead you behind the waterfalls, allowing you to feel the spray and hear the thunderous roar as they cascade downward.
If your kids aren't up for the hike, a small playground nearby offers an alternative. Rather than descending via the funicular, consider walking back to gain a lower-level view of the falls.
9. Ballenberg Museum
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Explore the Swiss Open Air Ballenberg museum, a distinctive living history experience for both adults and children — a perfect family activity in Interlaken.
Established in 1978 with 16 Swiss buildings, the museum has expanded to cover 66 hectares. It features authentic bake houses, barns, shops, and residences, many with their original equipment. Structures destined for demolition are carefully dismantled and recreated at the museum.
Over nearly 50 years, the museum has provided a glimpse into Swiss culture, traditions, and rural lifestyles, making it a valuable and insightful destination.
10. Grindelwald First
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Cap off your day in Interlaken with a one-day trip to the Alpine village of Grindelwald, just a 35-minute train ride away.
Explore the quaint village before heading to Grindelwald First for some excitement. Ascend to the peak at 2,166m for stunning views, followed by an exhilarating descent.
Experience the thrill with the First Glider or First Flyer (zip line) to Schreckfeld. Continue your descent using a mountain cart, and finally, enjoy a trottibike ride back to the village.
This unique mountain descent promises an unmatched and exciting adventure, making it a memorable addition to your Interlaken experience.
Have a nice day !!!
