Posted by Harderbahn Interlaken – Funicular Ride to Harder Kulm
The Harderbahn takes visitors from the town of Interlaken up to the local mountain Harder Kulm. It is a historic funicular railway that has been in operation for more than 100 years and is one of the classic excursions in the Bernese Oberland.
In just 8 minutes, the Harderbahn climbs around 750 meters in altitude. The lower station is located not far from Interlaken Ost railway station, and the line leads directly up to the viewpoint and restaurant on Harder Kulm.
At the top, visitors are rewarded with an impressive panoramic view and a well-known mountain restaurant. For many travelers, the Harderbahn is the easiest way to enjoy a high-altitude viewpoint without a long hike.
Buy tickets for the Harderbahn online:
More info and booking
How the Harderbahn Works
The Harderbahn is a funicular railway. This means two rail cars are connected by a long steel cable. One car starts at the valley station while the other starts at the mountain station, and both move at the same time.
The system is very energy-efficient: the descending car helps pull the ascending car upward via the cable. The two cars meet roughly in the middle of the track, where the line splits into two rails.
Although the total length of the track is only about 1,450 meters, the difference in altitude is significant. With an average gradient of over 60 percent, the Harderbahn is surprisingly steep.
The railway opened in 1908. At the beginning of the 20th century, many similar funicular railways were built across Europe, especially in alpine regions.
View from Harder Kulm
Once at the top, you enjoy a spectacular view over the
town of Interlaken, which lies between
Lake Thun and
Lake Brienz.
On clear days, the panorama extends deep into the
Bernese Oberland with its famous mountain peaks.
A highlight at the summit is the modern viewing platform, which is partly built out over the slope and offers excellent photo opportunities.
The restaurant on Harder Kulm serves traditional Swiss dishes as well as international meals. Prices are typical for Switzerland but considered fair for the location and the view.
Valley station of the Harderbahn
“Top of Interlaken”
In marketing, the Harderbahn is often referred to as the “Top of Interlaken”. This name is likely inspired by the nearby
Jungfrau Railway, which is advertised as the “Top of Europe”.
With a bit of luck, visitors may spot ibexes or chamois near the summit. The area is also home to many bird species. Several hiking trails of varying length and difficulty start from Harder Kulm.
Prices Harderbahn
A return ticket for adults costs around 40 Swiss francs (about 45 euros) in 2026. This may seem expensive for an 8-minute ride, but the experience and the view make it worthwhile for many visitors.
Tickets can be purchased on site or conveniently in advance online:
More info and booking
Hikers can also buy a one-way ticket (up or down) at about half the price and walk the remaining section.
Where Is the Harderbahn?
The valley station of the Harderbahn is located close to
Interlaken Ost station. When standing in front of the station, turn left, walk about 100 meters, then turn right and cross the bridge over the Aare River. The station is directly on the other side.
Operating Hours Harderbahn
The Harderbahn is a summer attraction and not a ski lift. It usually operates daily from mid-April to the end of November.
Typical operating hours are from about 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Exact times may vary slightly depending on the season.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Harderbahn, according to available information.
Buy tickets for the Harderbahn online:
More info and booking
Game Park Interlaken
Directly behind the Harderbahn valley station is the small Game Park of Interlaken. It is especially popular with families and children.
Visitors can observe animals such as marmots and ibexes in a natural setting. Admission to the game park is free.
