Things to Do in Interlaken: The Ultimate Adventure & Scenic Guide
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, breathtaking views, or peaceful alpine charm, this is the place where it all comes together. Here’s your complete guide to the best things to do in Interlaken.
4/28/20263 min read
Things to Do in Interlaken: The Ultimate Adventure & Scenic Guide
Nestled between two stunning lakes and surrounded by the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s most exciting destinations. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, breathtaking views, or peaceful alpine charm, this is the place where it all comes together.
Here’s your complete guide to the best things to do in Interlaken.
1. Visit Jungfraujoch – The “Top of Europe”
A trip to Jungfraujoch is one of the most iconic experiences in Switzerland. Sitting at 3,454 meters, this high-altitude destination offers glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, and panoramic views you won’t forget.
Highlights:
Ride the scenic mountain train
Explore the Ice Palace
Take in views from the Sphinx Observatory
Jungfraujoch and Interlaken Guided Day Tour with Scenic Bus
2. Go Paragliding Over the Alps
Interlaken is famous for adventure—and nothing beats seeing it from above. Tandem paragliding flights offer incredible views over lakes, valleys, and mountains.
Why do it:
One of the best paragliding spots in Europe
No experience needed
Unreal photo opportunities
Tandem Paragliding Experience in Interlaken from Zurich
3. Take the Harder Kulm Viewpoint
For the best view over Interlaken, head to Harder Kulm. A short funicular ride takes you to a dramatic viewing platform overlooking both lakes.
Don’t miss:
The glass platform
Sunset views over Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
Harder Kulm - Top of Interlaken Funicular Ticket
4. Cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz
Interlaken sits between two beautiful lakes, each offering its own unique vibe.
Lake Thun – deeper blue waters, castles, and charming towns
Lake Brienz – bright turquoise water and dramatic mountain scenery
A boat cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to explore the region.
Bernese Oberland and Lake Thun Cruise Day Tour
5. Explore Lauterbrunnen Valley
Just a short trip from Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen is often called one of the most beautiful valleys in the world.
What to see:
72 waterfalls, including Staubbach Falls
Scenic walking trails
Storybook alpine villages
Interlaken 2 Lakes Half-Day Small Group E-Bike Adventure
6. Stroll Through Interlaken Town
Hotels in Interlaken:
Medium: Hapimag Resort Interlaken
Luxury: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
While many come for adventure, the town itself is worth exploring.
Highlights:
Höhematte Park (watch paragliders land)
Local shops and cafés
Traditional Swiss architecture
7. Go Outdoor Adventure Sports
Interlaken is known as the adventure capital of Switzerland.
Top activities:
Canyoning
White-water rafting
Bungee jumping
Mountain biking
If you’re an adrenaline lover, you won’t run out of things to do. 8. Take Scenic Train Rides
Local Canyoning Trip from Interlaken
8. Take Scenic Train Rides
Interlaken is a hub for some of Switzerland’s most scenic rail journeys.
Popular routes include:
The GoldenPass Line
Routes toward Lucerne or Zermatt
Interlaken is a hub for some of Switzerland’s most scenic rail journeys.
Popular routes include:
The GoldenPass Line
Routes toward Lucerne or Zermatt
9. Try Swiss Food & Chocolate
No trip is complete without indulging in Swiss cuisine.
Must-try:
Cheese fondue
Raclette
Swiss chocolate
10. Take a Day Trip to Grindelwald
Another incredible destination near Interlaken is Grindelwald.
Grindelwald Mt. First - Top of Adventure Day Tour
Top experiences:
First Cliff Walk
Mountain gondola rides
Hiking with epic alpine views
Final Thoughts
Interlaken is more than just a base—it’s a destination packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re soaring above the Alps, cruising turquoise lakes, or exploring nearby valleys, it offers a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty.
If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, Interlaken should absolutely be on your itinerary—it’s one of those places that truly lives up to the hype.
