Interlaken

Interlaken translates to 'between lakes', perfectly describing its geographical position between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This unique location makes it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The town is divided into two main areas, centered around its two railway stations: Interlaken Ost (East) and Interlaken West. The Höheweg, a 700-meter-long boulevard connecting the two stations, is lined with hotels, cafes, and boutiques, offering spectacular views of the Jungfrau mountain.

Beyond its scenic beauty, Interlaken is globally recognized as a hub for extreme sports. From paragliding over the lakes to canyoning in glacial streams and skydiving in front of the Eiger, the town caters to adrenaline seekers. Yet, it remains equally appealing to those seeking tranquility, offering leisurely boat cruises, scenic train rides, and easy walking paths along the Aare River.

Reasons to Visit

• Unmatched access to the Jungfrau mountain region and the 'Top of Europe'.
• World-class adventure sports including paragliding, skydiving, and canyoning.
• Stunning dual-lake setting offering boat cruises and water activities.
• Excellent infrastructure and highly efficient Swiss public transportation.
• A wide variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid buying bottled water; the tap water is fresh alpine spring water and completely safe.
• Don't rely solely on Euros; always have Swiss Francs or a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Avoid traveling without a valid ticket on public transport, as fines are steep and checks are frequent.
• Don't underestimate mountain weather; it can change rapidly, so avoid hiking without proper gear.

Local Transportation Tips

Interlaken's public transport system is exceptionally efficient and clean. The town has two main train stations (Ost and West) connecting you to the rest of Switzerland and the mountain villages. Local buses run frequently, and the Interlaken Guest Card provides free travel on local routes. For mountain excursions, a vast network of cogwheel trains, funiculars, and cable cars is available. Ferries operate on both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz during the warmer months.

Travel Etiquette

• Punctuality is highly valued in Switzerland; arrive on time for tours and transport.
• Greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a polite 'Grüezi' when entering.
• Tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is included in bills, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
• Keep noise levels down in public spaces and on public transport.
• Respect nature by staying on marked trails and taking all trash with you.

Recommended Age Group

Interlaken offers a diverse range of activities that cater to almost every age group, making it a highly versatile destination.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The town itself is stroller-friendly, but high-altitude excursions (above 2,500m) are generally not recommended for infants due to the risk of altitude sickness.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love the themed trails, funicular rides, and the Jungfrau Park.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The abundance of adventure sports like ropes courses and paragliding makes it thrilling for teenagers.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for hiking, extreme sports, and enjoying the local culinary and nightlife scenes.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The highly accessible transport network allows seniors to reach spectacular viewpoints and enjoy leisurely lake cruises without strenuous physical exertion.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Swiss trains and boats are generally highly accessible, with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchair users.
• Many major viewpoints, including the Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, are fully wheelchair accessible via cable cars and elevators.
• The Höheweg promenade in Interlaken is flat, paved, and easy to navigate for those with mobility challenges.
• It is recommended to contact the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) Call Center Handicap in advance for assistance with train boarding.

Did You Know?

Interlaken has been a popular tourist destination since the early 19th century, drawing famous figures like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Lord Byron, who were captivated by its dramatic alpine scenery.

Cool Statistics

• Interlaken sits at an elevation of 566 meters (1,857 feet) above sea level.
• The Jungfrau Railway, accessible from Interlaken, leads to the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters.
• Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are fed by glacial meltwater, giving them their distinct, vibrant turquoise color.