Interlaken

Interlaken, located in the heart of Switzerland, is one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe. Surrounded by the Bernese Alps and nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, it is a dream escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and honeymooners alike. Many travelers planning Europe tour packages make sure to include Interlaken, as it combines breathtaking landscapes, adventure sports, and peaceful Swiss charm.

Beyond its scenic lakes and mountains, Interlaken is famous for paragliding, scenic train journeys, and vibrant resorts. Visitors can enjoy everything from quiet walks and boat cruises to thrilling adventures like skydiving and skiing. With snow-covered peaks, meadows, and alpine villages nearby, Interlaken perfectly captures the magic of Switzerland.

Best Time to Visit Interlaken:

June and September are the best time to visit Interlaken, when the weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This season is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, paragliding, and lake cruises. Clear skies allow stunning views of the Alps, making summer the most popular time to explore Interlaken.

December to February is perfect for winter lovers. The snow-covered peaks turn Interlaken into a paradise for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports. March to May and October to November bring fewer crowds and cheaper stays, making them good choices for travelers seeking a quieter experience.

How to Reach Interlaken:

Interlaken tourism is well-connected to major cities in Switzerland and international hubs.

By Air:

1. Departure Cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad
2. Arrival Airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH)
3. Time Taken: 8–9 hours approx. (direct to Zurich)
4. Airlines: Swiss International Air Lines, Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines

From Zurich, Interlaken can be reached by train in about 2.5–3 hours. The journey is scenic, passing through lakes, meadows, and mountains.

By Rail:

Trains from Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lucerne connect directly to Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost stations. Swiss Rail offers frequent and comfortable services, making train travel the most popular way to reach Interlaken.

By Road:

Zurich to Interlaken: 118 km (2 hours approx.)

Regular buses, taxis, and rental cars are available. Driving through the Swiss countryside is a memorable part of the journey.

Best Places to Visit in Interlaken:

Exploring the best places to visit in Interlaken offers a mix of natural beauty, alpine adventures, and Swiss culture:

1. Harder Kulm: Known as Interlaken’s local mountain, it offers breathtaking views of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the surrounding Alps. The funicular ride to the top is an experience in itself.
2. Jungfraujoch: Called the “Top of Europe,” this is one of the highest accessible points in Europe. Snow, ice palaces, and panoramic views of the Alps make it a must-visit.
3. Lake Thun: A sparkling blue lake surrounded by castles and villages. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises, water sports, or simply relax by the lakeside.
4. Lake Brienz: Known for its turquoise waters, this lake is perfect for scenic cruises and exploring nearby villages like Iseltwald.
5. Hohematte Park: A wide open space in the center of Interlaken, ideal for relaxing walks, picnics, and watching paragliders land. It is the heartbeat of the town.
6. St. Beatus Caves: Mysterious limestone caves located above Lake Thun, filled with underground waterfalls and unique rock formations.
7. Schynige Platte: A mountain ridge famous for its panoramic views and alpine garden, accessible by a scenic cogwheel train.