9 Best Day Trips From Interlaken – Things To Do Around Interlaken, Switzerland

Do you know there are some world-famous day trips from Interlaken? Interlaken lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, making it a perfect base for exploring Switzerland’s stunning Bernese Oberland region. So, in this article, read about beautiful cities near Interlaken, lovely small towns near Interlaken, and things to do around Interlaken.

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Day Trips From Interlaken – Things To Do Around Interlaken

Read this detailed blog on day trips from Interlaken, explaining why they are worth visiting, activities to do, travel details, must-do tours, culinary highlights, scenic spots, and valuable tips.

Hotel Stay In Interlaken – Things To Do Around Interlaken

Hotel Interlaken is a charming mid-budget hotel that offers a blend of comfort, excellent service, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and gardens. It’s ideally located, providing easy access to both Interlaken East and West railway stations, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe – Places near Interlaken

Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” offers breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest in Europe, and panoramic vistas of the snow-capped peaks.

Things to Do in Interlaken:

• Sphinx Observatory: Enjoy a 360-degree view from one of the highest observatories in the world.
• Ice Palace: Wander through ice tunnels and admire ice sculptures.
• Snow Fun Park: Engage in skiing, snowboarding, and tubing activities.

Distance from Interlaken: 25 km

How to Reach Jungfraujoch from Interlaken by Train?

• Train: Take the Bernese Oberland Railway from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, then transfer to the Wengernalp Railway to Kleine Scheidegg. From there, take the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch.
• Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.

Must-Do Tours: Jungfraujoch Day Tour: A guided tour that includes transportation and a detailed exploration of the attractions.

Special Food to Try: Rösti: A traditional Swiss potato dish, often available at restaurants on the Jungfraujoch.

Scenic Spots in Jungfraujoch:

• Aletsch Glacier View: The largest glacier in the Alps.
• Monch and Jungfrau Peaks: Majestic peaks visible from the observatory.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Dress warmly, even in summer, as temperatures are low.
• Book train tickets in advance, especially in peak season.

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Lake Thun and Thun Town

Lake Thun offers crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic mountains, while Thun is a charming medieval town with historical and cultural attractions.

Things to Do in Thun:

• Lake Cruise: Take a boat ride on Lake Thun to enjoy scenic views.
• Thun Castle: Explore the historic castle with its museum and panoramic views.
• Schadau Park: Relax in this beautiful park and visit Schadau Castle.

Distance from Interlaken: 30 km

How to Reach Thun from Interlaken? by Train

• Train: Direct trains are available from Interlaken West to Thun.
• Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Must-Do Tours in Thun:

• Lake Thun Boat Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely cruise with commentary about the sights.
• Thun Walking Tour: A guided tour exploring the old town and its history.

Special Food to Try:Nidletäfeli: A traditional Swiss caramel candy found in local shops.

Scenic Spots in Thun:

• Panorama Bridge: Offers stunning views of the lake and mountains.
• Old Town: Quaint streets with historic architecture and vibrant cafes.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Combine a boat trip with a visit to the town for a full-day experience.
• Check the boat schedule in advance, as timings can vary.

Schynige Platte – Places near Interlaken

Schynige Platte is known for its beautiful alpine garden and spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

Things to Do in Schynigee Platte

• Alpine Garden: Explore over 600 species of alpine plants.
• Hiking: Numerous trails offer varying levels of difficulty and stunning views.
• Traditional Alphorn Concerts: Experience Swiss culture with live music.

Distance from Interlaken: 8 km

How to Reach Schynige Platte from Interlaken by Train:

• Train: Take the cogwheel train from Wilderswil (accessible via a short train ride from Interlaken Ost).
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte.

Must-Do Tours:

• Guided Hiking Tours: Explore the trails with a knowledgeable guide.
• Alpine Garden Tour: A guided tour to learn about the diverse flora.

Special Food to Try:

• Alpkäse: Traditional Swiss alpine cheese, available at the mountain restaurant.
• Älplermagronen: Swiss pasta dish with potatoes, cheese, and onions.

Scenic Spots:

• Viewpoint Terrace: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Alpine Garden: A visual treat with a variety of alpine flowers.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring a jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
• The train ride itself is scenic and a highlight of the trip.

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Bern – Cities near Interlaken

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a charming old town, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful river views.

Things to Do in Bern:

• Zytglogge: Visit the famous clock tower with its astronomical clock.
• Bear Park: See the city’scity’s emblematic bears in a natural habitat.
• Einstein Museum: Learn about the life and work of Albert Einstein.

Distance from Interlaken: 56 km

How to Reach Bern From Interlaken by Train:

• Train: Direct trains are available from Interlaken West to Bern.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.

Must-Do Tours:

• Bern Old Town Walking Tour: Discover the historical and cultural highlights.
• Einstein Museum Tour: A guided tour focusing on Einstein’s contributions.

Special Food to Try: Mandelbärli: Bear-shaped almond cookies, a local delicacy.

Scenic Spots:

• Rosengarten: A beautiful rose garden offering panoramic views of the old town.
• Aare River: Scenic walks along the riverbanks.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
• The old town is compact and easy to explore on foot. A one-day train ticket covers public commuting options in Bern, such as trams, buses, and public ferries.

Grindelwald – Towns Near Interlaken

Grindelwald is a picturesque village offering access to some of the region’s most stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.

Things to Do in Grindelwald:

• First Cliff Walk: An exhilarating walk with breathtaking views.
• Bachalpsee: Hike to this beautiful alpine lake.
• Pfingstegg: Visit the adventure park with activities like tobogganing.

Distance from Interlaken: 20 km

How to Reach Grindelwald from Interlaken by Train?

• Train: Take the Bernese Oberland Railway from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald.
• Travel Time: Approximately 35 minutes.

Must-Do Tours:

• Grindelwald First Adventure Tour: Includes the cliff walk, mountain cart, and scooter rides.
• Hiking Tours: Guided hikes to explore the stunning trails and landscapes.

Special Food to Try:

• Raclette: Melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions.
• Fondue: A must-try Swiss dish, available at many local restaurants.

Scenic Spots:

• First Cliff Walk: Offers panoramic views of the valley and peaks.
• Bachalpsee: A serene lake with reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Check weather conditions before hiking.
• Early morning visits can be less crowded and offer the best light for photography.

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Lucerne

Lucerne, a beautiful city nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne, is known for its preserved medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning lake and mountain views.

Things to Do in Lucerne:

• Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): Walk across the iconic wooden bridge with 17th-century paintings.
• Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal): Visit the poignant monument dedicated to Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
• Lake Lucerne Cruise: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne.
• Old Town: Wander through charming streets with historic buildings, shops, and cafes.

Distance from Interlaken: 68 km

How to Reach Lucerne from Interlaken by train:

• Train: Direct trains are available from Interlaken Ost to Lucerne.
• Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.

Must-Do Tours:

• City Walking Tour: Explore Lucerne’s historical and cultural highlights with a guide.
• Lake Lucerne Boat Tour: A guided cruise with insights into the region’s history and landmarks.

Special Food to Try: Nusstorte: A delicious nut tart is available at local bakeries.

Scenic Spots:

• Musegg Wall: Climb the ancient city walls for panoramic views.
• Lake Promenade: A scenic walk along the lakeshore with beautiful Alps views.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Purchase a combination ticket for train and boat rides for a seamless experience.
• Visit the Swiss Transport Museum for an exciting insight into Swiss transportation history.

Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm, known as the “Top of Interlaken,” offers spectacular views over the surrounding mountains of Interlaken, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz.

Things to Do in Harder Kulm:

• Viewing Platform: Enjoy breathtaking views from the two-lake bridge platform.
• Panorama Restaurant: Savor Swiss cuisine while enjoying panoramic vistas.
• Hiking Trails: Explore various trails that start from Harder Kulm.

Distance from Interlaken: 1.5 km

How to Reach Harder Kulm from Interlaken by Train:

• Funicular: Take the Harderbahn funicular from Interlaken Ost to Harder Kulm.
• Travel Time: Approximately 10 minutes.

Must-Do Tours:

• Guided Hiking Tours: Discover the beautiful trails with an experienced guide.
• Sunset Tour: Enjoy a magical sunset, a guided tour, and dinner at the Panorama Restaurant.

Special Food to Try:

• Cheese Fondue: A classic Swiss dish available at the Panorama Restaurant.
• Alpine Macaroni: A hearty pasta dish with potatoes, cheese, and onions.

Scenic Spots:

• Two-Lake Bridge: Offers stunning views of both lakes and the surrounding mountains.
• Harder Kulm Trail Provides various scenic viewpoints along the way.

Pro Travel Tips:

• The funicular operates from April to November, so plan accordingly.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the area.

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Spiez

Spiez is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Thun, known for its beautiful castle, vineyards, and scenic lakeside views.

Things to Do in Spiez:

• Spiez Castle: Explore the historic castle and its museum and gardens.
• Lake Thun Cruise: Take a boat ride to enjoy the stunning lake and mountain scenery.
• Vineyards: Tour the local vineyards and taste the regional wines.

Distance from Interlaken: 18 km

How to reach Spiez from Interlaken by Train:

• Train: Direct trains are available from Interlaken West to Spiez.
• Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.

Must-Do Tours:

• Castle Tour: A guided tour of Spiez Castle, including its history and artifacts.
• Wine Tasting Tour: Explore the vineyards and enjoy wine-tasting sessions.

Scenic Spots:

• Castle Garden: Offers beautiful views of the lake and mountains.
• Lake Promenade: A scenic walk along the lakeshore with stunning views.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Combine your visit with a lake cruise for a complete experience.
• Check the opening hours of Spiez Castle, as they can vary by season.

Unterseen

Unterseen, adjacent to Interlaken, offers a quaint old town atmosphere with historical buildings and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

Things to Do in Unterseen:

• Old Town Walk: Explore the historic streets and admire traditional Swiss architecture.
• Aare River Walk: Enjoy a stroll along the river with scenic views.
• Kursaal Gardens: Relax in the peaceful gardens with views of the Jungfrau.

Distance from Interlaken: 1 km

How do you reach Unterseen from Interlaken?

• Walk: Unterseen is within walking distance from Interlaken West.
• Travel Time: Approximately 10 minutes on foot.

Must-Do Tours:

• Historical Walking Tour: A guided tour exploring the history and architecture of Unterseen.
• Culinary Tour: Sample local specialties while learning about the town’s history.

Special Food to Try:

• Swiss Chocolate: Visit local shops to try a variety of Swiss chocolates.
• Local Pastries: Enjoy fresh pastries from the town’s bakeries.

Scenic Spots:

• Unterseen Church: Offers beautiful views and historical significance.
• Aare River Views: Peaceful spots along the river with mountain vistas.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Visit the local market, if available, to experience local produce and crafts.
• Enjoy a coffee at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere.

Helpful Tips – Day Trips from Interlaken

• Travel Passes: Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network.
• Weather: Always check the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
• Packing: Bring layers, as temperatures vary widely, especially at higher altitudes.
• Local Delicacies: Take time to enjoy local Swiss cuisine at each destination.
• Early Start: Start your day early to maximize your time at each location and avoid crowds.

I hope you loved reading about some cute towns near Interlaken or some serene places near Interlaken and will soon plan your trip to Interlaken, which has so many beautiful things to do around Interlaken.

Enjoy your Swiss holidays with these perfect day trips from Interlaken!

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