Imagine a place where snow-capped mountains kiss the sky, lakes shimmer like sapphires, and adventure is just a heartbeat away. Welcome to Interlaken—a Swiss gem nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Whether you’re chasing thrills or seeking tranquillity, Interlaken offers a slice of paradise for every traveller.
Interlaken’s History & Magic
Interlaken means “between the lakes” – and yep, that’s exactly where it is! It all started way back in the 1100s as a quiet little monastery spot. Fast forward a few centuries, and people realised the fresh mountain air and incredible views were good for more than just praying. Adventurers and travellers started showing up, and Interlaken turned into the go-to base for exploring the Alps. These days, it’s a perfect mix of old charm and modern holiday vibes – think history, mountains, and loads of things to see and do, all in one pretty place.
Holiday Details
You can fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH), Geneva Airport (GVA), or Basel EuroAirport (BSL). From Zurich, it’s about 2 hours by train to Interlaken. From Geneva, it’s around 3 hours. If you’re flying into Basel, expect a 2.5 to 3-hour journey—just hop on a direct train from the airport shuttle station. All routes are scenic, comfy, and super Swiss (on time, spotless, and quiet). Grab a window seat—you won’t want to blink!
TUI offers ATOL-protected holidays, ensuring peace of mind. With their sometimes included Half-Fare Travelcard, you can explore Switzerland’s scenic routes at half the price.
Top Hotels:
Deltapark Vitalresort, TUI – Wellness heaven by the lake! Pools, saunas, mountain views—basically a spa day that never ends. Your zen starts here.
Metropole Swiss Quality Hotel, TUI – Smack in the centre with killer mountain views—high-rise comfort, stylish rooms, and perfect for exploring (or just people-watching).
Strandhotel, TUI – Lakeside chill vibes with cosy rooms and sunsets you’ll write home about. Quiet, charming, and dangerously good for your soul.
Must See Attractions
Harder Kulm: Take a funicular to this viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm, GetYourGuide
Hohematte Park: A central green space perfect for picnics and watching paragliders descend.
St. Beatus Caves: Explore these ancient caves filled with stalactites and legends.
Unterseen Old Town: Wander through charming streets lined with historic buildings and cozy cafes.
Schynige Platte: Ride a vintage cogwheel train to alpine gardens and hiking trails with stunning views. Schynige Platte Cogwheel Railway Return Ticket on Viator
Heimwehfluh: Ride the miniature railway, zip line, paraglide, hike or just take in the panoramic views. A nostalgic funicular takes you to a lookout with a restaurant.
Jungfrau Park: An amusement park with exhibits on mysteries of the world and fun rides.
Thun and Brienz Lakes: Enjoy boat cruises on these serene lakes flanking Interlaken.
Top Tours
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: Take the train to Europe’s highest railway station for snow fun and ice sculptures. Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip on Viator
Paragliding Adventure: Soar above Interlaken with a tandem paragliding flight for unmatched aerial views. Tandem Paragliding Experience on Viator
Lake Brienz Kayak Tour: Chill on a Kayak tour, taking in the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz, GetYourGuide
Grimsel Canyoning Adventure: Jump, slide, rappel and zipline through wild canyons. Epic views, chilly waters, free beer—yes please. Not for the faint-hearted! Canyoning Experience Grimsel on Viator
Beatus Caves & Scenic Day Tour: Caves, cliff bridges, fairy-tale lakes and a boat cruise—this tour’s like a Swiss postcard come to life. Beatus Caves & Scenic Day Tour on Viator
Grindelwald Canyon Swing: Feel-alive levels: 100. Leap off a 90-metre drop and scream your soul out over a glacier canyon. You brave enough? Canyon Swing in Grindelwald, GetYourGuide
Skydiving Over Interlaken: Freefall from 13,000 feet with snowy peaks and sparkling lakes beneath you. Pure adrenaline meets ridiculous Swiss views. Bucket list: ticked. Skydiving over the Swiss Alps, GetYourGuide
Lake Thun & Brienz Cruise Day Pass: Hop on, hop off, cruise two dreamy lakes. Visit castles or just vibe with mountain views. Super chill, zero effort needed. Lake Thun & Brienz Cruise Day Pass on Viator
Glacier 3000 & Swiss Riviera Tour: Snowy peaks, sky bridges, Montreux charm, castles and Charlie Chaplin’s hometown—this private tour is basically a Swiss highlight reel. Private Car Tour to Glacier 3000, Montreaux and Vevey on Viator
Most Recommended Restaurants
Restaurant Luegibrueggli: Offers traditional Swiss dishes with panoramic views of the Alps.
Fondue Villa & Garden: Specializes in classic Swiss fondue in a cozy, garden setting.
Restaurant Taverne: Serves a mix of Swiss and international cuisine in a historic hotel.
Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant: Dine with a view at this mountaintop restaurant accessible by funicular.
Hidden Gems of Interlaken
Gimmelwald – No Cars, Just Wow – Tiny, car-free and totally dreamy. Gimmelwald is like a fairytale village that time forgot—Alps, cows, quiet. Real Swiss charm, minus the crowds. Feels like a secret… because it is!
Swiss Craft Workshops – Cheese, Choc & Charm – Roll up your sleeves and get stuck into real Swiss traditions—cheese-making, wood-carving, chocolate magic. Fun, hands-on, and way better than just buying a fridge magnet. Culture = nailed.
Burgseeli Lido – Your Secret Swim Spot – Forget hotel pools—Burgseeli’s the real deal. Hidden lake, zero tourists, max vibes. Swim, kayak, picnic, repeat. Early morning light? Unreal.
Grimsel Pass – For Hairpin Bend Addicts – This mountain road? Total main character energy. Twisty turns, unreal views, goat-spotting potential. Take snacks, take pics, take your time—it’s all about the journey here, not just the bends.
Lake Brienz Shore Walk – Views for Days – Flat walk, big views, zero cost. Stroll or cycle along Lake Brienz, wave to Iseltwald, breathe in alpine bliss. No entry fee—just pure postcard perfection. Swiss serenity at its best.
Practical Tips
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF) is used; credit cards are widely accepted.
Tipping: Service charges are included, but rounding up is appreciated.
Adapters: Switzerland uses Type J plugs; bring a universal adapter.
Language: German is predominant; English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Transport: The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on public transport. Swiss Travel Pass, GetYourGuide
Weather: Pack layers; mountain weather can change rapidly.
Safety: Switzerland is very safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings.
Interlaken isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re chasing thrills or seeking solace, this Swiss haven delivers. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and let Interlaken enchant you. TUI Holidays to Interlaken
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