Interlaken

Nestled between lakes Thun and Brienz with stunning views of the Eiger, Jungfrau, and Matterhorn, Interlaken is the adventure capital of Switzerland offering hiking, paragliding, and access to the Jungfrau region. Its position as a gateway to the Bernese Oberland makes it essential for any Swiss Alps itinerary.

Things to do

• Jungfrau Railway — Take the cogwheel railway to Europe's highest train station at 3,454 meters, offering panoramic Alpine views and access to the Aletsch Glacier.
• Paragliding from Harder Kulm — Launch from the ridge above Interlaken for thrilling views of both lakes and the Bernese Oberland peaks, with numerous operators offering tandem flights.
• Lake Thun boat cruise — Navigate the pristine waters between Interlaken and Thun, stopping at charming villages and enjoying reflections of the surrounding mountains.
• Höhematte meadow walks — Stroll through the green valley floor between the two lakes with unobstructed views of the Eiger, Jungfrau, and Matterhorn.
• Schynige Platte hiking — Take the cogwheel railway to this ridge and hike among Alpine flowers and panoramic views stretching across the Bernese Oberland.
• Brienz Rothorn Railway — Ride the historic steam train up to Rothorn for summit views and traditional mountain hospitality in a historic setting.
• Canyoning in local gorges — Navigate through narrow rock formations and waterfalls in nearby canyons like the Chli Schliere or Saxetbach with professional guides.

Food to try

• Fondue — The quintessential Swiss melted cheese dish served in traditional pots, made with local Valais cheeses and eaten with bread cubes.
• Raclette — Semi-hard cheese melted by heat and scraped onto bread or potatoes, a hearty mountain specialty commonly enjoyed in alpine restaurants.
• Rösti — Crispy fried potato pancake, a Swiss staple particularly popular in the German-speaking regions, often topped with cheese or eggs.
• Älplermagronen — Mountain pasta dish combining noodles with cheese, potatoes, and onions, representing traditional Bernese Oberland comfort food.
• Apricot tart — Local dessert featuring Valais apricots in a pastry crust, showcasing the region's famous fruit production.

Local customs & good to know

• Reserve transportation ahead — Jungfrau Railway and other Alpine trains book quickly during summer, so purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Embrace mountain village pace — Interlaken operates on a slower rhythm than urban Switzerland; shops close by 6 PM and restaurants observe traditional meal times.
• Respect hiking traditions — Always stay on marked trails, close farm gates behind you, and greet other hikers with 'Grüezi'—a fundamental courtesy in Alpine communities.
• Weather changes rapidly — Mountain conditions can shift within hours; carry layers and check forecasts daily, as afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.