Between Two Alpine Lakes. Jungfrau summit excursions, paragliding over emerald waters, and Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel.
Interlaken is a traditional resort town in the Bernese Oberland region of central Switzerland. It occupies a position on the flat alluvial plain called Bödeli, situated between the distinctively coloured waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The town acts as the primary transport hub and base for accessing the region's mountains and lakes. Visitors use Interlaken as a starting point for excursions into the Jungfrau region for hiking, winter sports, and scenic rail journeys.
This central area along the main boulevard provides immediate access to shops, restaurants, and the Interlaken West and Ost train stations. It is a convenient base for organising excursions throughout the region.
Located just across the Aare river, Unterseen is the historic part of the town, offering a quieter atmosphere with traditional Swiss architecture. It provides a more residential feel while remaining within walking distance of central amenities.
For a setting directly on the water, villages along the shores of Lake Thun or Lake Brienz offer tranquility and direct access to lake cruises. These locations are a short bus or boat ride from central Interlaken.
A cogwheel railway journey ascends to Jungfraujoch, the highest-altitude railway station in Europe, located within the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage site. The destination provides views of the Aletsch Glacier.
The two lakes flanking Interlaken offer scheduled boat services, connecting the town with waterside villages and historic castles, such as Thun Castle or Oberhofen Castle. These cruises show the alpine scenery from the water.
Accessible by a series of cable cars from the Lauterbrunnen valley, the Schilthorn summit features a revolving restaurant and a panoramic viewing platform. It offers 360-degree views that include the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
A funicular railway ascends from Interlaken to the Harder Kulm viewpoint, situated directly above the town. Its viewing platform offers a clear perspective of Interlaken's position between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
June to September. The summer months provide the warmest temperatures, suitable for lake activities and accessing the full network of high-altitude hiking trails. Spring and autumn see fewer visitors and offer mild conditions, while winter is focused on snow sports in the surrounding Jungfrau ski region.
The main international airports serving the region are Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA). From either airport, Interlaken is reached via Switzerland's national rail network, with services connecting to Interlaken Ost station.
A car is not required, as many mountain destinations are accessible only by train, funicular, or cable car. The Swiss Travel System provides comprehensive access to trains, buses, and boats throughout the area, often making a car impractical.
The summit of Jungfraujoch is at an elevation of 3,454 metres, where the air is thinner. Entry and health requirements change, so check current official government guidance and speak with a travel health professional before you go.
The main excursions offer different perspectives: Jungfraujoch focuses on the high-alpine glacier world, while the Schilthorn provides a panoramic view of the main peaks. Harder Kulm offers a direct aerial view of Interlaken and is a shorter trip.
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