Wondering where to go this holiday? Try Interlaken, Switzerland. Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Interlaken, Switzerland, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland, and the best places to visit in Interlaken, Switzerland. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3 travel company that aspires to disrupt the travel industry.
Table Of Content
- Brienzer-Rothorn Railway
- Burgseeli Lake
- Giessbach Falls (Giessbachfälle)
- Harder Kulm
- Höhematte Park
- Interlaken Monastery and Castle (Schlosskirche)
- Jungfraujoch
- Lake Brienz
- Lake Thun
- Museum of Local History and Viticulture (Heimat- und Rebbaumuseum)
- Niederhorn
- Panoramabrücke Sigriswil (Sigriswil Panorama Bridge)
- Schynige Platte Trails
- Spiez Vineyard Sensory Adventure Trail
- St. Beatus Cave and Waterfalls
- Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg
- Touristik-Museum (Museum of Tourism)
- Unspunnen Castle
- Unterseen
- Weissenau Nature Reserve
- Explore Europe
Brienzer-Rothorn Railway
There’s a saying, “der Weg ist das Ziel, “or “it’s as though the trip itself is the goal.” Many would say that an adventure’s peak is at the end, but that is not the case with the Brienzer-Rothorn Railway.
Adventure extends to the good ole railways and their rush of steam-running escapades into the horizons.
The red carriage-embodied train has been chugging since 1892. Like then till now, it will transport you through luscious forestry, puffing past Alpine meadows, rocks, and everflowing streams.
The more the train puffs in the one-hour ride (7.6 kilometers), the more the scenery heightens (literally) to continuously take your breath away while allowing you to take in the gush of cool air.
After reaching the top, continue climbing the final few meters to the summit. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of more than 693 mountain peaks.
So hop in the carriage and chug away to a ride that will surely be a feast for your eyes!
Address: Hauptstrasse 149, 3855 Brienz, Switzerland
Burgseeli Lake
For every lake in Interlaken, there’s always a hustling crowd of tourists eager to take a plunge. But, if a little quiet space of paradise is your thing, Burgseeli Lake is the dip to take!
The lake is surrounded by a large range of flora and fauna, wherein the height of summer, it is deemed as the perfect nature-huddled spot to enjoy its pristine and inviting 26-degree waters.
Moreover, it lies in a nature reserve, tucked in a hollow and bodied outcrop, called the “Burg” by locals.
There are plentiful unique laidback activities to be a part of, such as full-moon swimming, “Grills & Chills,” aqua jogging, cycling courses, and so much more.
The area also caters to sports enthusiasts who would like to snatch a game of frisbee, badminton, table tennis, and the like whilst in the cool and sunny breeze.
It’s as though the lake is a little jewel waiting to be discovered. The question at hand is if you’re willing to find it.
Address: Burgseeli, Interlaken, Bern, Interlaken, Switzerland
Giessbach Falls (Giessbachfälle)
It’s not only mountains that hover over the glistening lakes in Interlaken. It’s also majestic falls that cascade into the scenery.
Giessbach Falls is the most prominent waterfall in Interlaken. To visit it, just hop on a ferry and vintage funicular and be catered to an optional short hike alongside a bite at Grand Hotel Giessbach.
The said waterfall is not merely a stop-by to gawk at its plunging waters. You can also wander up to it as far as your legs can take you.
Wherein some trekking areas can take you underneath the waterfalls, giving you a fresh perspective on its majestic take.
If you stop by the restaurant in the area, not only would you be fed with a meal, even a delightful and effortless view.
More so does its pristine roaring waters glisten in spring; it captivates tourists and wildlife to hang around and take a breather.
If you’re looking for a veranda of peace and have the sun soothe your aches, then Giessbach Falls is the place to hike around.
Address: 3855 Brienz, Switzerland
Harder Kulm
Interlaken is adorned with summits that feast on the eyes due to how breathtaking each panoramic view is.
Usually, each panoramic view shows the tips of mountain peaks and one of the many lakes of Interlaken.
If you dream of at least being at the top of a summit to admire the full scale of most lakes or places, look into Harder Kulm.
Harder Kulm has a soaring viewing platform at 1,322 meters above sea level that peers down the marvelous Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz.
Stepping on that viewing platform would make you feel like you’re at the world’s top.
To travel to the place, you don’t need to tread up its steep greenery, just slide into a cable car and slowly yet majestically ascend into Interlaken’s mountain.
If you are hungry from constantly feeling majestic by being at the top, you can dine in their restaurant and dash a hearty meal.
Get a ticket and saddle up in a cable car, your majesty. There is a peak that’s worth reigning over!
Address: Harder Kulm, Interlaken, Switzerland
Höhematte Park
At the heart of the town of Interlaken, a vast recreational open space is accessible for you to admire the beauty of Switzerland without stepping outside your comfort zone.
If that sounds delightful, then Höhematte Park will surely welcome you with open arms and whistling trees.
Like most parks, you can set a picnic in the area while taking in the excellent scenery of the Swiss Alps.
The setting is perfect for a stroll and even a session for family bonding.
Glimmering over the blue skies, you can spot many colorful paragliders swoop down to land on the dewy grass.
For such a picturesque park, it uniquely gives one a view of snow-capped mountains yet has a bright sun over the spring-tended area.
The spring-tended park has multiple flowering gardens that add color and festivity to the area.
It also possesses a working clock built with flowers.
Moreover, a large variety of wildflowers adorn the park’s soil, which pairs well with the seemingly falling-flower-petal paragliders.
Take a break from hiking and slow down under the inviting ray of sun and flowering pathways that Höhematte Park provides.
Address: 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken Monastery and Castle (Schlosskirche)
Between the fresh graze of Höhematte and the Japanese Garden is the beloved Interlaken Monastery and Castle, locally known as Schlosskirche.
It is a one-of-a-kind church, castle, and monastery, all kneaded into one.
It was constructed around 1133. Though its exterior architecture implies simplicity inside, it is the holder of exquisite stained glass art.
It is accessible on foot and welcomes all visitors to stroll inside and take in its interesting history from how it started as a monastery to a convent, then into a private palace, and currently as a full-on religious and business site.
Aside from its intriguing morphing history, it too has a Gothic cloister gallery in the old courtyard.
The said area is favored by most tourists since it heightens the intake of scenery while strolling in and out of the monastery-castle structure.
It’s a relaxing space to stroll around, sit on a shady bench, and admire the extraordinary take the building gives off as an architectural gem.
Address: Interlaken, Switzerland
Jungfraujoch
The highlight and absolute need of each Swiss trip are to feel like Elsa while icy air wisps over your face while looking at the view of a sea of snow and peaks.
And to do that, just hop on the highest railway station in Europe, Jungfraujoch!
You get a spectacular ride by hopping on a brand new Eiger Express cabin from Grindelwald– who knows, you may solve a freezing mystery Orient Express style or attain an epiphany while chugging along.
Riding on the train gives you two views, one being the Swiss Mittelland railing to the Vosges. With a quick head turn, one can see the Aletsch Glacier lined with four thousand-meter peaks.
Stopping at the tip of Europe, standing 3,454 meters above sea level, would be the most unforgettable experience yet while taking it all in.
After gawking at the view, you can do various activities like hiking, skiing, and sledding at the Snow Fun park to add to your experience.
Get a ticket and get steamed up for a ride that can take you to somewhere otherworldly.
Address: 3801 Fieschertal, Switzerland
Lake Brienz
There are loads of aqua gems in Interlaken. A few of those gems are Lake Brienz, also known as one of Switzerland’s best-known lakes, in the Berner Oberland region.
Truly the lake is a gem, for it resembles a turquoise gem reflecting inviting hues similar to its crystal glistening, greenish-blue waters.
Like other lakes, the area offers activities for those who are unwinding or want to get their adrenaline running.
The lake dawns an enriched tropical color and enclosed vibe, perfect for a swimming dip, a water sports session, or floating around. Moreover, there are plenty of tranquil bathing spots available for many.
For others looking for a thrill or slow adventure session, one may paddle through Lake Brienz’s paddle trail or make up their own.
The method of travel is up to you, may it be a kayak, canoe, or a Stand-Up Paddle (SUP).
Lake Brienz spoils its visitors with loads of choices regarding water sports and the like, so come by and huddle yourself with these refreshing offers.
Address: Canton of Bern, Brienz 3855, Switzerland
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Lake Thun
Are you looking for a lake larger than Lake Brienz? Then worry not, for Lake Thun is sail away.
Lake Thun is located on the west side of Interlaken. It’s enclosed by mountains and is highly recommended to explore around by threading on a cruise boat.
On lake Thun, it’s notable for tourists to admire the views of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau that are far off in the distance.
Similar to the many bodies of water in the area, Lake Thun is rich with water activities alongside its unique number of beautiful castles that one can wander in after taking a dip or ride across the lake’s deep blue waters.
Several swimming areas are available all around the lake, there is a lot of steamer activity, and there are a lot of music festivals held all through the year that you may participate in.
Each activity and event use the beautiful scenery that can be seen along the lake’s shoreline.
It’s here in Lake Thun where you can enjoy plenty of fun!
Address: Bernese Oberland, Interlaken, Switzerland
Museum of Local History and Viticulture (Heimat- und Rebbaumuseum)
Sipping wine, tasting wine, buying wine – if you’re a wine lover, you surely like strolling out to pick the best amongst carts of bottles. But how about making wine?
Skip away to Spiez to find the Museum of Local History and Viticulture!
Discover the only winemaking museum in Bernese Oberland while going through special exhibitions.
Interesting details would be fed to you on their local winemaking craftsmanship and thriving history.
The museum’s ground floor gives one an insight into the creative storing and manufacturing of wine and its barrels.
The exhibition highlights the evolution of such processes from one year to the next.
Viticulture and wine cellar processes are also thoroughly tackled to satiate your curiosity about the delightful swish of the drink you love.
Wine tasting activities are also available whilst you stroll around the nearby cottage garden at the skirts of Simmentalerhaus.
Swing by here with a wineglass at hand. The experience will surely make you tipsy with glee!
Address: Spiezbergstrasse 48, 3700 Spiez
Niederhorn
Have you ever wanted to twirl and get a full-on 360-degree panorama of a vast lake and forestry-rich place?
If you want to feel like a twirling character from the Sound of Music, then Niederhorn mountain is the spot for you.
Towering at the height of 1,950 meters above sea level, the Niederhorn offers its famous 360-degree view of surrounding mountains while intensifying the deep blue hue of Lake Thun’s water and vast size.
To get to the viewing points of the mountain, one can go full steam ahead on its railway that offers glass-sided funiculars that slowly ascend you to the top whilst giving a morphing view of the different landscapes in all angles and lighting.
Not only does one intake the breathtaking views, but there are also loads of information panels across many trekking trails for one to learn about the fresh flora and fauna of the wonderful alpine environment.
Old or young, hitch on a funicular and yip in joy for the sights that you will witness while ascending!
Address: Berghaus Niederhorn, Niederhorn 1015, 3803 Beatenberg
Panoramabrücke Sigriswil (Sigriswil Panorama Bridge)
Hanging around Interlaken’s hiking trails? Well, you must be a fan of heights and the sorts then!
The Sigriswil Panorama Bridge is between Sigriswil and Aeschlen and is one of the three suspension bridges present in the Lake Thun Panoramic Circular Trail, with an amazing stretch of 340 meters.
If you can pull your wits together, then you surely have enough courage to walk through the far gap from Sigriswil to Aeschlen.
With either end you walk from, you would still be greeted by surrounding mountainous peaks and the flow of wind to encourage you to go further in the path.
Though if you look down, you may not be met with fear but awe. Peer down the bridge to see a 182-meter-deep Gummischlucht gorge that welcomes you with soft echoes of wind from below.
You’ll never know. By the middle of your stroll, you might encounter a scene from Crash Landing on You, so pack your bags and tread your way here!
Address: Raftstrasse 31-33, 3655 Sigriswil, Switzerland
Schynige Platte Trails
Hike, Hike, Hike!
You can see more not from strolling but from hiking.
The way the sun hits the green fields of mountains has urged many to explore its terrain– that being Schynige Platte Trails.
Schynige Platte has four popular hiking trails, namely the Daube viewpoint hike and the Oberberghorn Panorama Trail, where the Louchernhorn Panorama Trail is the stretched Trailway of the previous one, and the last being the most strenuous one to go by, Schynige Platte to First Hike.
Each hiking trail has difficulty levels when it comes to going through them.
Most are easy to moderate, wherein other lengthy trails go from moderate to difficult, especially for those new to the hiking experience.
Each hike gives a spectacular view with a commonly relaxing downhill hike with usually good weather all around.
The farther and higher a person hikes, like in most Swiss areas, the view gets even better.
Clasp your bag and grippy shoes, for when you ascend and descend from whichever hiking trail you take on Schnige Platte, it will most definitely reward you with an unforgettable view.
Address: Jungfrau Region, Berner Oberland Switzerland
Spiez Vineyard Sensory Adventure Trail
There’s a wine-based museum in Spiez, but if that’s not on par with your need for a walk on a trail with a clasp of wine at hand, then a vineyard trail is what you need!
Spiez Vineyard Sensory Adventure Trail – a kneaded experience of going through a themed trail with a stunning view of Lake Thun, the Alps, and a shining castle.
The hike on the trail is at a stretch of 0.96km. It lasts an hour and a half and is generally easy-going for all to be a part of. Though it is your choice if you’d like to go through the entire course or halfway.
There are also 12 interactive post boards on the trail. When scanned with a QR code, you get to watch the 12 short films depicting the yearly life of a winemaker.
Tie on your shoelaces, strap on a basket, and hike to Spiez’s wonderful vineyard full of adventure! Head on to immerse yourself in vineyards, history, and creativity.
Address: Spiez, Bern Region, Switzerland
St. Beatus Cave and Waterfalls
Do you like secrets? Or at least uncovering one? Well, there’s a secret in Switzerland that you have yet to discover, St. Beatus Caves.
Within the luscious forestry, caving limestone with crumpling grottos, chasms, and halls, you may find a cave with cascading waters mimicking that of a magical world.
It’s quite magical and fantastical, wherein its green foliage and waterfalls inspired JRR Tolkien’s writeup of Rivendell (the Elven realm in Middle Earth), more so in Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
If you explore the caves, you may learn of its history of how it used to be the home of a legendary dragon that heaved havoc that was eventually slain by an Irish monk.
So if you hike around through the waterfalls, you will be greeted by a cave opening, museum, and restaurant.
And with this experience, for a day, you may feel like an RPG character looking for enemies to swing your sword at.
Pack your inventory, fellow traveler, and come explore the ravenous caves of St. Beatus.
Address: Seestrasse 30, 3800 Sundlauenen, Switzerland
Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg
Museum the first thought that comes to mind when it comes to a museum is going inside a building and gawking at whatever is on display.
Wouldn’t it be cooler to see actual life-sized buildings of a country’s culture rather than a little diorama?
Well, that’s what the Swiss Open-Air Museum is all about– an experience of looking at and being a part of history!
The Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg is home to the display of traditional buildings and architecture divided by the various regions of the country Switzerland.
Each building is specifically chosen to give an on-spot representation of regional traditional-based architecture serving a local heritage site of national significance.
Not only do you get to walk along with these historical buildings, you too can be a part of demonstrations in the present craft and industrial buildings that cater towards cheesemaking, rural crafts, and the like.
To tie in the walk-back-in-time around the museum, you get to walk inside several of the buildings and peer outside at the coos of farm life nearby.
Don’t you want to walk on a ‘life-sized’ diorama? Well, head on to the idyllic Swiss Open-Air Museum for a unique experience.
Address: Museumsstrasse 100, 3858 Hofstetten bei Brienz, Switzerland
Touristik-Museum (Museum of Tourism)
One going around Interlaken usually goes to Höhematte Park and Schlosskirche as a starter to explore the area by strolling.
Though to take in the full experience, one integrates themself into Switzerland’s rich history, culture, and livelihood.
Stop by Touristik-Museum or Museum of Tourism in Unterseen as a starter before you roam around the other landmarks in Interlaken.
The museum can help you grasp an understanding of the importance and origins of most of the places.
May it be learning more about the local souvenir industry, the initial discovery of the Alps, a series of insights on the area’s winter sports, as well as peering into the history of trail pathways, railways, and sailing paths.
Tourism plays a big part in the land of Switzerland, so it’s essential to know that your presence serves a big role in their country, as well in your traveling experience.
There is beauty in enculturating oneself in the cultures and traditions of another, more so if you drop by Interlaken!
Address: Obere Gasse 28, Unterseen, Interlaken
Unspunnen Castle
Imagine huddling through a dense forest to witness a castle in ruins overlooking the city of Interlaken in all of its shining glory.
It’s as though you transported yourself back through time as a knight venturing out on steep paths. Now that sounds cool, but it’s even better when you see it firsthand.
Shine your armor and head out to Unspunnen castle!
The castle dramatically lost its original structure during the 16th and 17th centuries, though it’s estimated to have been constructed during the early 12th century.
Despite its deteriorated structure, the area still exudes a calming scenery while still upholding its Unspunnenfest, a festival of several traditional Swiss competitions, just a distance away from it on the meadows.
If you peer in its clumped cobblestone walls, you can admire its aging physique giving off a majestic and untimely vibe.
The moss surrounding the area alongside the occasional drops of snow in the High Middle Age escapade.
Stride forth to Unspunnen Castle, fellow knight; plentiful castles are left for us to explore in the land of Interlaken!
Address: 3812 Wilderswil, Switzerland
Unterseen
“Good things come in small packages” – truly does that statement wrap around Unterseen.
Though the small area is often not sought by most travelers, the activities available there are worth exploring!
Unterseen is heavy on medieval-modern-boutique-like architecture adorned with calming complementary hues on buildings and establishments that pair well with the flora around.
More so, does the place warmly welcome its visitors at night when the lampposts light up the streets with a wonderful glow?
Golf courses, paint and pottery studios, sailing sessions, dashing restaurants, and loads of accommodating hotels are here in Unterseen.
You can walk by beautifully crafted chalets, peek inside the nearby gothic church, or even an inn from the 15th century that’s currently a restaurant.
If you have a knack for rising bread and hearty dishes, then roam around Unterseen to get the best bites.
Explore several local markets, bakeries, and whatnot to get a taste of their daily cuisine.
So just hop to Interlaken West Train Station for a ride to Unterseen, a place sure to fill you with glee and a full tummy.
Address: Obere Gasse 02. Apr 3800 UNTERSEEN Schweiz
Weissenau Nature Reserve
There is something mystical about walking in a forest and simply taking in how each leaf falls from a slow breeze.
May it be after a long day of strolling in towns, you’d want something more shaded and enclosed.
Here at Weissenau Nature Reserve, you can climb to the top of a ruined fortress to enjoy the view of the upper end of Lake Thun.
While doing so, you may learn of the plethora of species present in reserve ranging from the wonderful biodiversity of wildlife.
Try to I-Spy-With-My-Little-Eye the eighteen types of orchids around, the hundreds of speeding bird species on tree canopies and nests, as well as over forty-three species of shrubs.
When you’re done using your magnifying glass to peer into the little paradise of wildlife in reserve, you can bring yourself to their golf course.
You can swing as many golf balls whilst tuning in to the sound of nature, gushing waters, and pristine sun rays.
So head down from the Lake of Thun to a little reserve that will welcome you to its wonderful plethora of creatures.
Need more convincing to travel to Interlaken, Switzerland, right? Hop over to reasons to visit Interlaken, Switzerland, at least once in your lifetime here
Address:Weissenaustrasse, 3800 Unterseen, Switzerland
