Still wondering what to do in Interlaken? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Interlaken and book your hotel today!
Interlaken is the adrenaline capital of Switzerland, spectacularly situated between two brilliant blue lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and surrounded by the towering peaks of the Bernese Alps. Its name literally means 'between the lakes', and it serves as the perfect launchpad for high-octane adventure and world-famous scenic excursions.
The town is famous for its vast central meadow, Höhematte Park, where you can often watch paragliders land. You can take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for a fantastic panoramic viewpoint over the town and the lakes, or embark on a full-day adventure to Jungfraujoch, the 'Top of Europe'. With stunning waterfalls, hiking trails on the Schynige Platte, and endless opportunities for kayaking and canyoning, Interlaken is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
The best location for your Interlaken hotel is central, balancing easy access to the main train stations for mountain excursions with the energy of the town's centre.
The area around the central Höhematte Park and the main street, Höheweg, is the most convenient choice. Staying here puts you in the heart of the town’s dining, shopping, and activity booking centres. This is the ideal hub for soaking up the atmosphere and watching the paragliders come in to land.
Interlaken has two main railway stations: Interlaken Ost (East) and Interlaken West. Accommodation near Interlaken Ost is highly recommended, as this is the departure point for all major mountain railways, including the trains to Grindelwald and the Jungfraujoch. Hotels near Interlaken West are closer to the main commercial centre and the departure point for cruises on Lake Thun.
Interlaken is served by an efficient Swiss rail network, connecting it quickly to major cities and airports like Zurich. The town itself is small and easily walkable. Boat tours depart from the docks near both train stations, and local bus services connect you to attractions like the St. Beatus Caves.
Hotel prices in Interlaken are exceptionally high during the peak summer season, from June to September, when the weather is perfect for mountain adventures and outdoor sports. Prices also surge during the winter ski season, particularly around Christmas and New Year and during the European school holidays.
The best value is found during the quiet spring and autumn months of April/May and October/November. A unique tip for Interlaken is to book accommodation in the quieter, adjacent town of Unterseen. This charming historical area is just a short walk across a bridge from the main Interlaken centre but often provides better hotel rates than the properties located directly on the main Höheweg strip.