If you want to experience Switzerland’s beauty at it’s finest, go to Interlaken! It is one of the most breathtaking and surprising areas in all of Europe.
In German “interlaken” means “between lakes”. Not surprisingly, the Swiss town of Interlaken is situated between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Interlaken’s location is also ideal if you want to visit nearby places like Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Murren, Wengen, Thun, and Brienz.
The beauty isn’t just the lakes; steep mountains tower over the village. The area offers a natural feel and exquisite views.
While planning my first trip to Switzerland I knew to expect amazing natural beauty, but I completely underestimated just how much adventure there was as well!
So what is Interlaken known for?
It isn’t just it’s amazing views. This Interlaken Travel Guide will help you choose the best Interlaken activities for your next visit and show you that Interlaken is the the adventure capital of Switzerland.
15 Awesome Things to do in Interlaken
Finding the most beautiful places in Interlaken isn’t hard, but the destination offers so much more.
Don’t worry if you are the extra adventurous type. There is a ton for you to do in Interlaken as well! There is skydiving, river rafting, canyoneering, bungee jumping, kayaking and so much more.
You can even go tandem paragliding in Interlaken!
Below are the best things to do in Interlaken, Switzerland.
Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken
One of the most epic things to do in Interlaken is to go tandem paragliding! Flying tandem with an experienced pilot, you will experience the most incredible views as you soar over the beautiful town of Interlaken.
New to paragliding? Me too! Don’t worry, you don’t have to have any experience. I highly recommend booking this tour here. It’s such an incredible experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Interlaken is included.
If you are interested in learning more you can book this activity in advance you can click one of the links below.
Click to book this activity now: Paragliding Over the Swiss Alps from Lauterbrunnen
Get aboard the highest railway station in Europe in Jungfraujoch
Get aboard the highest railway station in Europe at the Jungfraujoch departure point. The views are intense.
The Jungfraujoch is a viewing point in the Bernese Alps, at an altitude of 11,332 ft/ 3,454 m!
Click to book this activity now: Jungfraujoch: Roundtrip to the Top of Europe by Train
Grimsel Canyoning Experience from Interlaken
Want to repel down sheer cliff face above a rushing river? Zipline through the mountains? Leap off of rock ledges? Take natural slides into swirling pools? All of this is available in this Swiss Alps canyoning tours.
Even reading about this tour is a rush. All safety gear, wetsuits, showers, and lunch are included in this almost 6 hour tour. Read more about Swiss Alps Grimsel Canyoning Experience here.
Make sure you have a decent pair of hiking boots for this activity (or Switzerland in general).
I have worn my Columbia waterproof hiking boots for over a year now and I love them. They are comfortable, affordable, and cute! They sell out often but I recommend checking Nordstrom & DSW to try and find your size in stock.
Also worth noting – this seasonal tour that only operates May–October.
Click to book this activity now: Grimsel Canyoning Experience from Interlaken
Also available is a similar but slightly shorter tour here.
1-Hour Scenic Lake Brienz Boat Tour
Need a break from all the adrenaline filled activities? This 1 hour boat cruise on Lake Brienz is it! The scenery is incredible. Expect to see some of the most blue water you have ever seen in your life!
Switzerland truly is a postcard.
Click to book this activity now: Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz – Scenic Boat Cruise
Take a Day Trip to Lauterbrunnen
Lauterburnnen is one of the most popular attractions in Switzerland and must be included on your Switzerland itinerary. This charming village in nestled into one of the most picturesque areas in the Swiss Alps. It offers incredible views that could convert anyone into a romantic.
I recommend going on an e-bike tour to not miss any of the best spots.
Book your tour: 6-Hour Guided e-bike tour to Lauterbrunnen 72 Waterfalls Valley and Swiss Picnic
WAYS TO TOUR INTERLAKEN
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Interlaken
Hike Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen
One of the most stunning aspects of Lauterbrunnen is not only the mountain views, but the local waterfalls. Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen cascades hundreds of feet down a sheer rock cliff just beyond the streets of the town.
Staubbach waterfall is located in the Bernese Alps. It is 967 ft (24 m) tall and almost 100 ft (30 m) wide.
Visit the Fairytale Village of Grindelwald
Grindewald is not just a character in Harry Potter. The character name may have been selected because the town of Grindelwald is absolutely magical. It is worth spending the entire day exploring.
The best things to do in Grindelwald include seeing the St. Beatus Caves, The Oberhofen Castle, and the First Cliff walk!
Stand Up Paddle Board/Kayak Tour on Lake Brienz
One of the best ways to actually enjoy the gorgeous turquoise waters of Lake Brienze is to actually get out on them. Take a winter Kayak tour to help you explore. (Stand up paddle board tour is currently not available.)
While the water may be cold, you don’t have to get in. Beginners are welcome as they have guides that can train you to paddle board (also called supping).
Click to book this activity now: Winter Kayak Tour on the Turquoise Lake Brienz
Skydive over Interlaken
Want to go skydiving from a helicopter over the Swiss Alps in Interlaken? Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. Get your adrenaline pumping with this Helicopter Skydiving in Interlaken.
With this tour you will have panoramic views over the Eiger, the Mönch, and the Jungfrau peaks!
The tour includes free pickup at your Interlaken hotel or train station. You will be skydiving in tandem with the instructor, no experience necessary.
Interested in other skydiving opportunities, click here for more.
Jungfraujoch 20 Minute scenic flight from Interlaken
Sky diving not your thing? How about a helicopter tour through the Grindelwald valley and over the breathtaking Jungfraujoch (“top of Europe”).
Jungfraujoch is the location of the highest train station in Europe and it is also the location of the highest post office in Europe. The views are unmatched. I promise you it’s worth it.
Click to book this activity now: Jungfraujoch 20 min. scenic flight from Interlaken
Read more about Jungfraujoch 20 Min. scenic flight from Interlaken here.
Lütschine River White-Water Rafting Experience from Interlaken
Who doesn’t love white water rafting? How can you make it an even more fun experience? By doing it in the middle of the Swiss Alps of course. These category 3 and 4 rapids will raise the hair on the back of your neck.
Hotel pickup and drop off included.
Click to book this activity now: Lütschine River White-Water Rafting Experience from Interlaken
Take a day trip to Oberhofen Castle
Oberhofen castle is located in the middle of the Swiss Alps. This beautiful castle in Switzerland sits on the shore of lake Thun. It serves as a museum that even offers training on how to be a medieval knight or lady.
Lake Thun itself is also one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland you will ever see!
To get to the castle you can drive yourself, take the 21 bus line, or even book a boat ride over.
Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz
Interlaken features numerous water activities on Lake Brienz. There are kayak tours to go along with the paddle board tours. This guided kayaking tour on Lake Brienz includes the kayak rental and all safety equipment needed, a photo package, and a day ticket to the Strandbad Bönigen with heated pools and aqua park on the lake.
Click to book this activity now: Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz
Planning on visiting Interlaken in the winter? Book the winter Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz here.
Relax at Lake Thun
Even with all the opportunities for adventure my favorite activity might just be relaxing on the shores of Lake Thun. Take your time relaxing with the stunning skies and deep blue water. It’s a perfect place to relax.
Is Interlaken worth visiting? Yes! Hopefully this helps you plan your Interlaken itinerary.
And a random thing to know before traveling to Interlaken: FAQ
What language do they speak in Interlaken?
Interlaken is situated in the German speaking part of Switzerland. In addition to German, however, many locals also speak English and French.
Visiting Switzerland? READ NEXT:
- 15 Best Things to do in Interlaken
- 10 Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland
- First Cliff Walk in Grindelwald (Free insane views!)
- Staubbach Falls Hike and Views (Lauterbrunnen)
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