Are you looking for an exciting day-trip to take while you’re in Zurich, Switzerland? A great destination to explore is Interlaken, a scenic mountain destination in the foothills of the Bernese Alps. Interlaken is located at the very top of the beautiful Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, nestled between the two lakes. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities or a bit of sightseeing, Interlaken is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Zurich.

Getting from Zurich to Interlaken from Zurich is quite easy. During the high-season (May-October), you can either take the Mountain Railway or the GoldenPass Line train. The train will take you through some of the prettiest scenery in Switzerland, winding through pastures and forests, mountain passes, and picturesque villages. The trip from Zurich to Interlaken typically takes around 2.5 hours, depending on your travel plans and route.

The best part about spending a day in Interlaken is that there’s a wide variety of activities and sights to explore. Whether you’re looking for a more leisurely stroll to take in the stunning mountainous views or more adrenaline pumping adventures, you can find what you’re looking for in Interlaken. We’ve highlighted some of the top activities you can do during your day-trip to Interlaken below:

Stroll Through Old-Town Interlaken: If you’re looking to take a more leisurely walk around Interlaken and explore the cobbled streets and historic buildings, you can take a short stroll through Old Town Interlaken. You’ll find many charming boutiques, restaurants, and cafes perched along the banks of Lake Thun, as well as magnificent views of the neighboring Swiss Alps.

Visit St. Beatus Caves: For a truly unique experience, visit St. Beatus Caves located just outside of Interlaken. Originally discovered by monks in the 11th century, these spectacular limestone caves are home to some beautiful scenery and fascinating wildlife! You can even take a guided tour inside the caves and see some of their amazing crystal formations up close.

Take a Cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz: No trip to Interlaken would be complete without a leisurely boat ride on either Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. You can sit back and relax as you cruise past the majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes, admiring some of the most beautiful landscapes in Switzerland. Plus, each boat ride has plenty of time for pure relaxation—making it the perfect way to spend a day in Interlaken!

Go Hiking or Rock Climbing: If you’re looking for some more active endeavors while in Interlaken, then consider hiking or rock climbing in one of the nearby mountains. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views and some of the best wilderness in Switzerland as you explore Interlaken by foot. There are plenty of trails that range in difficulty level and length, so everyone can find something they love!

Explore Ski Towns: During wintertime, Interlaken is located at the center of some of the best ski towns in Switzerland! Head over to Grindelwald or Wengen for a day of skiing and snowboarding. Or, if you’d rather do some sightseeing, consider taking a cable-car ride up to Kleine-Scheidegg for panoramic vistas of several mountain peaks including Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

After your day of exploring all that Interlaken has to offer, book your return trip Zurich with GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide offers private tours from Zurich to Interlaken and back with great drivers who are familiar with all the best spots to make sure your journey is an enjoyable one. Plus, GetYourGuide has an extensive selection of activities that range from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures—so you’re sure to find something to your liking.

Whether you’re looking for a day-trip filled with outdoor adventures or simply a leisurely stroll through Old Town Interlaken, spending a day in this majestic mountain destination is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Book private transportation from Zurich to Interlaken and back with GetYourGuide today so you can enjoy all that Interlaken has to offer worry-free!

So, are you ready for your day trip from Zurich to Interlaken? Book your return private transportation with GetYourGuide today so you can plan your excursions without needing to worry about one more thing – Book your private transportation with GetYourGuide now.

Insider’s Guide: Strolling Through Old-Town Interlaken

Interlaken, Switzerland, is a charming city loved by tourists worldwide for its stunning views of the Swiss Alps and its picturesque towns. However, the true charm lies in its historical district, Old-Town Interlaken. As your creative and insightful assistant, I will take you on a journey through Interlaken’s hidden gems, fascinating history, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

Interlaken is a city of natural beauty, and unique experiences abound even beyond the popular tourist spots. The Lauterbrunnen Valley, situated a short distance from Interlaken, is a hidden gem that only locals know about, where you can marvel at 72 waterfalls cascading from the mountains. Another overlooked destination is the Hohematte Park, where you can take a relaxing stroll and enjoy iconic views of the Swiss Alps.

For a unique souvenir, visit the Gelateria di Berna, where you can taste exquisite homemade ice cream and purchase handmade souvenirs made by local artists.

Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine and Culture

Interlaken offers an eclectic variety of culinary experiences that will tantalize your taste buds. One must-try is the traditional Swiss Rosti, a dish made of thinly grated potatoes served alongside bacon and eggs, cheese, or vegetables. Enjoy your meal at the Brasserie 17 in Boulevard, where you can relish the fusion of Swiss and French cuisine. Another option is the Alpine Deli, where you can taste Swiss cheese fondue and raclette in a cozy setting.

A trip to Interlaken is not complete without trying Swiss chocolate. Head to Funky Chocolate Club, where you can learn to make your own chocolate truffles while gaining insight into the history of Swiss Chocolate.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Interlaken’s Traditions

Interlaken is renowned for its music and dance festivals, and one event worth attending is the Unspunnen Schwinget festival, which occurs every six years, where locals gather to celebrate traditional Swiss entertainment, music, and crafts. Another must-visit is the Jungfrau region, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site to celebrate the area’s heritage, art, and natural beauty.

Local History: Stories Behind the Stone Walls

Interlaken’s history is fascinating, and a guided tour of the city’s castle ruins is a must-do. The 12th-century chateau has seen invasions, historic battles, and has stories from the Roman era. The Tourist Museum provides an incredible experience in learning about Interlaken’s customs, making for a visually compelling experience.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Recommendations: Unforgettable Experiences

One such experience that visitors must try is paragliding, where you can soar over the Swiss Alps and drink in the breathtaking panoramic views of Interlaken. Another unique activity is canyoning, where you navigate a stream’s rapids and pools while encountering waterfalls, cliffs, and rugged terrain.

In conclusion, Interlaken is a place where history and culture come together, and though tourists tend to see only the surface, a stroll through old-town Interlaken will reveal the true essence of this stunning city.