Posted by Interlaken is often described as the tourism capital of the Bernese Oberland. The town is beautifully located in a wide valley between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
Thanks to its central location, Interlaken is the main gateway to the surrounding mountains.
Roads and railway lines branch out from Interlaken into all parts of the Bernese Alps.
Whether you are heading to Grindelwald, Wengen, Mürren or the Jungfraujoch,
almost every journey starts here. This makes Interlaken the most popular overnight base for visitors to the region.
Skydiving over the Bernese Alps:
One of the most spectacular outdoor activities in Switzerland starts directly in Interlaken. Not cheap, but unforgettable:
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Interlaken and the Bödeli Region
Interlaken itself has only around 5,000 inhabitants.
However, together with the surrounding communities known as the Bödeli
(Unterseen, Matten, Wilderswil and Bönigen), the urban area has about 20,000 residents.
For tourists, this entire region functions as one large destination.
Railway Stations and Transport
Interlaken has two main railway stations: Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West,
located about two kilometers apart. Both stations are well connected and can be reached on foot from the town center in around 15 minutes.
Most mountain railways and excursions into the Alps depart from
Interlaken Ost. Tickets for trains, cable cars and rack railways can be bought at both stations or online in advance.
Excursions from Interlaken
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Due to limited train capacity and very high demand, we strongly recommend booking Jungfraujoch tickets in advance.
Train & cable car tickets (round trip):
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There are also guided day tours from Interlaken, often only slightly more expensive than individual tickets:
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Day Trip from Zurich to Interlaken
A popular and affordable option is a guided day trip from Zurich to the Bernese Oberland:
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Lakes, Boats and Outdoor Activities
Passenger boats operate regularly on both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
Lake Thun boats depart near Interlaken West, while Lake Brienz boats leave from Interlaken Ost.
The two lakes are connected by the Aare River, which flows directly through Interlaken.
Popular activities include swimming, kayaking and jet boating, especially on Lake Brienz.
City Center and Accommodation
Instead of a large central square, Interlaken features the Höhematte,
a wide open meadow offering views toward the Jungfrau.
The main shopping street is Bahnhofstrasse, close to tourist information, shops and restaurants.
Interlaken offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels near the Höhematte to hostels and hundreds of holiday apartments.
Check hotels and apartments in Interlaken:
Check availability and prices on Booking.com
Harder Kulm – Interlaken’s Local Mountain
The Harder Kulm is Interlaken’s local mountain and can be reached by funicular.
From the top, you enjoy one of the best panoramic views in the region.
Buy tickets for the Harderbahn online:
More info and booking