Interlaken sits between two turquoise lakes beneath the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch peaks, serving as Switzerland’s base for high-alpine excursions.

Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

Interlaken’s name literally means ‘between lakes,’ and both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz offer boat cruises and lakeside towns worth exploring beyond the main adventure sports scene.

Adventure Sports Hub

Interlaken has become Switzerland’s adventure sports capital, offering paragliding, canyoning, and skydiving against a backdrop of some of the country’s most dramatic peaks.

Day Trip: Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch, ‘Top of Europe,’ is reached by a scenic cogwheel railway and sits at over 11,000 feet between the Eiger and Mönch, offering glacier views and an ice palace carved into the mountain.

Book Interlaken Tours & Day Trips

Snowshoe Adventure in the Swiss Alps

Snowshoe Adventure in the Swiss Alps

★ 5.0 (30)
From USD 124.78
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Best of Bernese Oberland Tour from Interlaken

Best of Bernese Oberland Tour from Interlaken

★ 5.0 (26)
From USD 1121.75
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Scenic E Bike Tour Interlaken

Scenic E Bike Tour Interlaken

★ 5.0 (25)
From USD 149.99
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Discover Interlaken E-Bike Tour – Lakes Ruins and Scenic Views

Discover Interlaken E-Bike Tour – Lakes Ruins and Scenic Views

★ 5.0 (25)
From USD 200.4
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Interlaken Valley Winter E-Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Castles

Interlaken Valley Winter E-Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Castles

★ 5.0 (23)
From USD 124.78
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Grindelwald -Kleine Scheidegg-Lauterbrunnen Small Group Day Trip

Grindelwald -Kleine Scheidegg-Lauterbrunnen Small Group Day Trip

★ 5.0 (19)
From USD 420.97
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Practical Tips

  • Book Jungfraujoch tickets in advance and check the weather – clear days offer far better views, and tickets can be pricey enough to plan around forecasts.
  • Bring warm layers even in summer – Jungfraujoch sits at high altitude and temperatures drop well below the valley floor.
  • Try paragliding for a unique view of the lakes and mountains – tandem flights require no experience and are one of the region’s signature activities.

FAQ

How many days do I need in Interlaken?
Two to three days covers the lakes and town, with a full day for Jungfraujoch.

Is Jungfraujoch worth the cost?
Most visitors find the glacier and mountain views worth the expense, though checking weather forecasts first helps ensure clear visibility.

Is Interlaken good for non-adventure travelers?
Yes – the lakes, mountain railways, and scenery are rewarding even without extreme sports.

Final Thoughts

Interlaken’s lakes and adventure sports scene are worth a few days on their own, and Jungfraujoch remains the essential high-alpine day trip.

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