Beautifully encased between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, in the middle of Switzerland's Bernese Oberland, you'll find the breathtaking town of Interlaken. Hailed as a must-visit hub for adventure enthusiasts and nature buffs, Interlaken features a pleasant climate, comprising warm summers and snow-laden winters, making it a top choice for travel, no matter the time of year. Towering over the town is the striking alpine trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, which together form a magnificent mountainous panorama.
In Interlaken, there's a unique fusion of ancestral Swiss heritage and a contemporary, sport-centric lifestyle. A landscape dotted with charming chalets, ancient hotels, funky cafes, and adrenaline-infused activity centres awaits you. It masterfully caters to both the adventure-hungry and those yearning for serene mountain escapades.
What sets Interlaken apart from other destinations is its enviable location, serving as the doorway to the magnificent Alps. The region is renowned for its alluring Swiss chocolate-tasting experiences, especially at the Schuh Chocolate factory, and traditional fondue restaurants. Using Interlaken as your base, you can partake in quintessential Swiss activities, like hiking, paragliding, and riding up to the celebrated Jungfraujoch, fondly referred to as the "Top of Europe".
One of the must-see sights in Interlaken is the Harder Kulm viewpoint, reachable by funicular, where you're welcomed with panoramic vistas of the two surrounding lakes and peaks. For an authentic taste of Switzerland, hop on a boat cruise on either lake, or dare to paraglide from the famed takeoff points above the town.
Terrifically connected to prominent cities by the Swiss rail system, Interlaken is served by two core stations: Interlaken Ost and West. Consider buying a Swiss Travel Pass for hassle-free, unlimited travel and access to spectacular mountain railways.
A trip in the summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, while the winter (December to February) offers stellar conditions for skiing. Spring and autumn usher in pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making them great choices for sightseeing.
Approximately CHF 150-200 per day should suffice for a medium-range travel experience, encompassing accommodation, meals, and activities. Bear in mind, adventure sports and alpine tours can increase this estimate significantly.
Certainly, English is widely spoken in hotels, eateries, and tourist hotspots. While the primary local language is German, you should have no trouble getting by with English.
Opt for the direct train service from Zurich Airport straight to Interlaken, which is roughly a two-hour journey. Ensure you buy your tickets beforehand or use your Swiss Travel Pass.
Almost all establishments in Interlaken accept major credit cards. However, it's practical to carry some cash for minor purchases or when visiting mountain huts.
Travel Tips for Interlaken
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