Interlaken: Gateway to the High Alps
Nestled between two emerald lakes and framed by the legendary Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks—welcome to Switzerland’s ultimate outdoor capital.
Location
Bernese Oberland
From Zurich Airport
1 Hr 45 Mins Direct
Famous Peaks
Jungfrau, Eiger, Schilthorn
The Two Lakes
Thun & Brienz
Between Lake Thun & Lake Brienz
Ask anyone who grew up in the Bernese Oberland and they’ll tell you: Interlaken isn't just a destination, it's a crossroads of Swiss adventure. Its name literally means “between the lakes”—positioned squarely between the turquoise glacial waters of Lake Brienz and the deep blue expanse of Lake Thun.
Whether you are staying at historic luxury icons like the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa or using Interlaken as your launchpad into Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Mürren, this town gives you the absolute best of both worlds: boutique luxury dining on the valley floor and immediate access to 4,000-meter alpine peaks.
The Essential Interlaken Bucket List
When our team organizes customized itineraries for guests in Interlaken, these are the signature experiences we always prioritize:
❄️ Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Board the Eiger Express tricable gondola from Grindelwald Terminal to reach Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 meters, featuring the Sphinx Observatory and Ice Palace.
🦅 Harder Kulm Viewpoint
A short 10-minute funicular ride takes you 1,322 meters above sea level to the "Two Lakes Bridge" for the ultimate photo spot over Interlaken and the big three mountain peaks.
🚢 Historic Paddle Steamers
Take a scenic cruise across Lake Brienz to Giessbach Falls, or sail past medieval lakeside castles on Lake Thun aboard vintage steamships like the PS Blümlisalp.
⛰️ Schilthorn & Piz Gloria
Follow in James Bond’s footsteps up to Piz Gloria at 2,970 meters for 360-degree panoramic views of over 200 alpine peaks and the skyline of the Bernese Alps.
💡 Local Insider Advice for Transfers
If you're traveling with heavy luggage or ski equipment, navigating mountain train transfers at Interlaken Ost with tight schedules can be stressful. Booking a private door-to-door transfer directly from Zurich Airport or Geneva allows you to drive straight to your hotel or chalet in Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen without changing trains once.
Nearby Mountain Villages to Explore
Interlaken acts as the central hub for the surrounding Alpine valleys. Within 20 to 30 minutes, you can easily reach:
• Grindelwald: The home of glacier sports, hiking trails, First Cliff Walk, and dramatic views of the Eiger North Face.
• Lauterbrunnen Valley: Known as the valley of 72 waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls tumbling down sheer cliff walls.
• Mürren & Wengen: Car-free mountain villages perched high above the valley floor, offering serene, traditional Swiss chalet atmosphere.