Things to Do in Interlaken & Jungfrau Region – Complete 2025 Local Guide

Introduction

Interlaken sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, at the heart of the Jungfrau region, surrounded by some of the most iconic Alpine landscapes in Switzerland.

For over a century, travelers have come here for the same reason:
raw nature, dramatic mountains, and an unmatched variety of experiences in a compact area.

This 2025 guide is written from a local, on-the-ground perspective, not to list everything, but to help you understand what truly matters, when to go, and how to experience Interlaken beyond the obvious highlights.

Why Interlaken Is So Special

Interlaken literally means “between the lakes”, and that geography defines everything.

Since the late 19th century, Interlaken has been the main gateway to the Bernese Alps, long before mass tourism existed. Writers, climbers and explorers passed through here to reach the Jungfrau mountains.

What makes Interlaken unique today:

• Two Alpine lakes with completely different colors

• Direct access to high mountains, valleys and villages

• Adventure sports next to quiet, untouched places

Very few destinations in Switzerland offer this balance.

Adventure Sports in Interlaken (Air & Sky)

Interlaken is often called Switzerland’s adventure capital, and flying experiences play a big role in that reputation.

Paragliding, Hang Gliding & Skydiving

Flying above Interlaken offers a rare perspective:
Lake Thun on one side, Lake Brienz on the other, with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau straight ahead.

Paragliding & Hang Gliding:
Companies like Alpin Air, founded in the early 1990s, were among the pioneers of paragliding and hang gliding in Interlaken.

💡 Pro Tip: Morning flights (before 11 AM) usually offer calmer winds and clearer skies.

Skydiving & Helicopter Flights:
For adrenaline seekers, freefalling above the Alps remains one of the most intense experiences in Europe.

💡 Local fact: Höhematte Park is one of the few town centers in Europe where paragliders land daily.

Lakes & Water Experiences

Lake Thun

Wide, elegant and lined with historic castles.

• Scenic boat cruises operated by BLS

• Sunset viewpoints above Beatenberg

• Castles like Oberhofen along the shore

Lake Brienz

Smaller, wilder, and famous for its deep turquoise color.

• Waterfalls flowing directly into the lake

• Kayaking, staying close to cliffs and waterfalls

• Easy access to Giessbach Falls, one of Switzerland’s most impressive waterfall systems

💡 Local tip: Early mornings on Lake Brienz are often mirror-still, especially in summer.

Hiking & Scenic Viewpoints

Interlaken is a paradise for hikers of all levels.

Classic Viewpoints

• Harder Kulm – Interlaken’s iconic viewpoint (funicular opened in 1908)

• Mürren – car-free village with dramatic valley views

• Schynige Platte – alpine gardens and classic ridge walks

Valley Highlights

• Grindelwald – glaciers, alpine pastures and year-round activities

• Lauterbrunnen Valley – home to 70+ waterfalls, including Staubbach Falls

Iconic Mountains & Alpine Legends

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

At 3,454 m, Europe’s highest railway station has welcomed visitors since 1912, an engineering masterpiece offering snow year-round.

Schilthorn

Famous for its rotating restaurant and its role in the James Bond film
“On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” (1969).

Hidden Gems & Quiet Places

Beyond the famous spots, quieter treasures still exist:

• Oeschinensee – unreal turquoise alpine lake

• Bachalpsee – classic reflection of the Wetterhorn

• Axalp & Hinterburgseeli – peaceful, lesser-known alpine landscapes

• Isenfluh – authentic village above Lauterbrunnen

• Forest paths near Giessbach, especially in the evening

These places are where Interlaken still feels untouched.

Winter Activities in Interlaken

Winter transforms the region into a calmer, more intimate version of itself.

Skiing

Interlaken sits between several major ski areas:

• Grindelwald-Wengen

• Mürren-Schilthorn

For travelers looking for a smooth, flexible experience, guided ski days and ski safaris allow you to explore multiple resorts efficiently.
(Subtle internal link to Swiss Local Adventures ski activities)

Snowshoeing & Sledding

• Snowshoe hikes through silent forests and alpine plateaus

• Day & night sledding with mountain fondue: one of the most fun winter experiences in the region
  

💡 For small-group, locally guided winter experiences in Interlaken, including ski days, snowshoe hikes and sledding tours, explore our winter activities in Interlaken.

Spa, Wellness & Relaxation

After outdoor adventures:

• Bödeli Spa – relaxed, local atmosphere

• Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – one of Switzerland’s most prestigious wellness hotels, opened in 1865

Swiss Food, Restaurants & Local Culture

• Luegibrüggli – traditional Swiss food with panoramic views

• Burgseeli Restaurant – often considered one of the best kitchens in the area

• Alpine huts serving fondue and raclette in winter

For history lovers:

• Balmers Hostel Bar, located in what is often cited as Switzerland’s first youth hostel (opened in 1924)

When to Visit Interlaken

• Summer (June–September): hiking, lakes, paragliding

• Winter (December–March): skiing, snowshoeing, sledding

• Spring & Autumn: fewer crowds, dramatic light, better value

Interlaken is easily reachable by train from Zurich, Bern and Lucerne, making it one of the best bases in Switzerland.

Final Thoughts

Interlaken is not just a checklist destination.
It’s a place where nature, history and adventure meet, where you can slow down — or push your limits — all in the same day.

Whether you come for the mountains, the lakes, winter snow or summer air, the Jungfrau region always gives something back.

FAQ – Visiting Interlaken

Is Interlaken worth visiting in winter?

Yes. Winter is actually one of the best times to visit Interlaken for snowshoeing, sledding, ski days and quieter landscapes, even if you don’t ski.

How many days do you need in Interlaken?

2 to 3 full days is ideal to experience the lakes, viewpoints and one or two mountain excursions without rushing.

Is Interlaken expensive?

Like most of Switzerland, prices are high, but staying in Interlaken allows you to access many free or low-cost nature experiences.

Can you visit Interlaken without a car?

Absolutely. Interlaken is one of the best-connected towns in Switzerland by train, boat and cable car.

What is the best month to visit Interlaken?

June and September offer the best balance of weather, activities and fewer crowds, while winter is ideal for snow-based experiences.

*Written by Timoté Baily, your mountain photographer at Swiss Local Adventures