How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Interlaken?

Often cited as the “adventure capital’ of Switzerland, Interlaken is an idyllic town in the heart of the country’s Alps that offers immense natural beauty, thrilling outdoor activities, and delightful eateries. Whether you’re a walking aficionado, an adrenaline junkie, or a beer enthusiast, Interlaken is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this postcard-worthy mountain town.

Tour the Jungfrau Region

If you’re looking for sweeping views of snow-covered Alpine passes and cobalt-blue lakes, a tour is a must during your stay in Interlaken. Nothing quite compares to the sight of the highest village in Europe, the picturesque town of Wengen, the iconic Loetschberg Range, and the towering peaks of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. Plus, with the variety of cable cars and trains available, you can easily hop from one stop to another and explore various locales. You can find plenty of tours available at My Swiss Alps where you can purchase tour packages or buy tickets for cable cars.

Take a Stroll around Lake Brienz

A ten-minute train ride away from Interlaken Ost lies the equally gorgeous Lake Brienz. This tranquil body of water is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or jog along its banks. Be sure to capture a few photographs as well – when the sun hits the lake just right, the impossibly blue waters provide an unforgettable backdrop. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, consider renting a bike and riding around the lake to other nearby attractions such as Giessbach Falls, Felsenweg Trail, and Iseltwald Cheese Dairy.

Take a Hike Through Lauterbrunnen Valley

One of the most popular hiking trails in Interlaken runs from Stechelberg village to Gimmelwald village through Lauterbrunnen Valley. Throughout the five-hour hike, you can wander past stunning meadows, traverse through quaint villages and stand amidst thunderous waterfalls at virtually every turn. If you’re pressed for time or not feeling up to a six-hour hike, you can always opt for a 30-minute walk from Lauterbrunnen station to the neighboring Staubbach Falls or take a cable car right up to Schilthorn peak and marvel at the expansive valleys below.

Experience Traditional Swiss Cuisine

When you start feeling famished after all that hiking, indulge in some Swiss specialties such as Raclette (melted cheese served with boiled potatoes, ham and gherkins), Fondue (melted cheese served with chunks of bread and accompanied by white wine), Rosti (Shredded potatoes cooked with butter, cheese and egg that are then griddled until golden), and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal and mushrooms served in cream sauce). The food markets in Interlaken offer some of the best local delicacies so stock up for a picnic at the local bakery Ratsstube or wander inside Grotto to tantalize your taste buds with some fresh, sustainable cuisine.

Relish in Swiss Beer Culture

Bierlane Tours is run by a local Swiss brewery that offers beer tasting tours to some of Interlaken’s best pubs and taverns. This friendly atmosphere allows for some beer sampling alongside a personalized tour guide who will tell you all about Swiss beer culture. Monchshofer Brewery is another great place to experience some traditional lager – located in Unterseen region, this brewery allows visitors to sample some exceptional Swiss craft beers while learning about their brewing process.
To sum things up: Interlaken is an excellent destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers looking for an exciting excursion that’s not too far away from home. Whether it’s hiking up to lush mountain peaks, touring the Jungfrau region in the Swiss Alps or indulging in some local beer tasting, there’s plenty of exciting things to do here during a perfect weekend. Plan your Interlaken getaway now — you won’t regret it!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Interlaken: How to Spend a Perfect Weekend

Are you planning a trip to Interlaken and looking for an immersive and unique experience? Look no further, as we have compiled an insider’s guide that goes beyond the typical guidebook listings. Here’s how to spend a perfect weekend in Interlaken, Switzerland.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

Interlaken is known for its stunning natural beauty, with mountains and lakes dominating the landscape. As a tourist, you’ll likely visit the famous Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, but there’s more to the city than just these popular tourist spots.

A lesser-known hidden gem is the St. Beatus Caves, located on the northeastern shore of Lake Thun. Explore dark, winding tunnels, underground waterfalls, and vast halls illuminated by stunning mineral formations.

You can also visit the Harder Kulm, a mountain offering a panoramic view of the city, lakes, and the surrounding Alpine peaks. If you’re up for some adventure, take a paragliding tour and soar over the city’s breathtaking landscape.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Interlaken is home to several traditional Swiss dining spots that are sure to please your taste buds. Start with traditional cheese fondue at the restaurant Taverne at Rugenpark, where you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and excellent service. Or indulge in some hearty Rösti, a Swiss potato dish, at Baren, a local favorite.

For a unique culinary experience, head to the Grocier, a restaurant that uses local and seasonal ingredients to create a fusion of Swiss and international cuisine. Don’t forget to try some delicious Swiss chocolates at the Confisserie Schuh.

Cultural Experiences: Exploring Traditions and Customs

Interlaken is packed with cultural experiences that offer insight into the region’s history and traditions. During summer, attend the Unspunnenfest, a Swiss folklore festival celebrating traditional customs and handicrafts such as flag-throwing, Alpine horn-playing, and Schwingen—a traditional Swiss wrestling sport.

Another must-visit spot is the Kunsthaus Interlaken, a modern and contemporary art museum showcasing works of renowned Swiss artists. Additionally, visit the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum and explore over 100 Swiss heritage houses, showcasing Switzerland’s diverse landscape and culture.

Local History: Uncovering Fascinating Stories

Interlaken has a rich history, and its story is full of fascinating tales. In the late 1800s, Interlaken became a fashionable tourist destination, attracting famous writers, celebrities, and artists such as Lord Byron and Felix Mendelssohn.

During World War II, Interlaken served as a hub for Swiss intelligence and smuggled Jews out of Germany. Learn more about this history at the Tourist Museum, located in a 16th-century mansion.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For those seeking unique experiences beyond the typical tourist spots, we have a few suggestions. Start by exploring the caves and waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen, a hidden paradise tucked between steep cliffs.

You can also hike to the highest railway station in Europe, the Jungfraujoch. A stunning and challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the snow-capped Alps and the Aletsch Glacier.

Finally, for adrenaline seekers, try canyoning in the steep gorges of Grimsel, or go rafting on the Lütschine River, surrounded by Interlaken’s magnificent scenery.

Conclusion

Interlaken is a city that offers something unique to all travelers, from its landscapes and food experiences to its history and traditions. Use this insider’s guide to discover Interlaken’s hidden gems and make unforgettable memories during your visit to this stunning city.