Friends, ready for a lakes-and-alps blockbuster? Interlaken sits between turquoise Lake Brienz and deep-blue Lake Thun, with a web of boats, funiculars, and mountain railways that make big views blissfully easy.

Use this guide—packed with prices, timeframes, and transport tips—to stitch together glacier moments, cliffside strolls, and calm swims without guesswork.

Schynige Platte

From Wilderswil, board the nostalgic cogwheel train (1890s charm intact). Return fares run $40–$70; trains roughly 08:00–17:00 May–Oct. At 2,000 m, stroll the Alpine Garden (650 species), pick short ridge walks, and snap Interlaken far below. Layers are smart—breezes can feel crisp even on sunny days.

Lake Brienz

Board century-old boats from Interlaken Ost or Brienz; day tickets $25–$55. Aim for Giessbach to pair a 500 m cascade with Europe's oldest forest funicular (extra $12). Kayak rentals on calm mornings cost $20–$30/hour; hug the shore and watch the weather—winds can lift after lunch.

Lake Thun

Lake Thun's breezes favor sailing and paddleboarding (rentals $20–$35/hour). Swim zones dot Neuhaus and Gunten; bring water shoes for stony entries. Classic round-trips to Thun reveal a storybook old town and lakefront parks. Boats typically run every 1–2 hours; combo lake passes save cash if you'll cruise both lakes.

Jungfraujoch

From Interlaken Ost, ride via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to the "Top of Europe" (3,466 m). Dynamic pricing ranges $120–$230 return; reserve early on clear days. Expect tunnels through rock, ice exhibits, and 360° decks over the Aletsch ice. Time on site: 2–3 hours; bring sunglasses, SPF, and steady footwear.

Beatus Caves

Above Lake Thun's north shore, paved galleries reveal chambers, formations, and underground streams. Entry $20–$25, open late Mar–mid Nov, with on-site museum and terrace café. Allow 90 minutes inside plus trail time; carry a light jacket—the temperature stays cool year-round.

Summer Thrills

Interlaken is built for action: canyoning (half-day $110–$150), zipline parks ($40–$70), paragliding tandems ($150–$200) landing on Höhematte's lawn, and guided SUP tours ($50–$80). Operators include transfers and gear; bring a towel, closed shoes, and a dry layer for alpine winds.

Höheweg

This flower-rimmed promenade links Interlaken Ost and West with uninterrupted mountain views over Höhematte Park. Pop into chocolatiers, outfitters, and cafés for rosti, pastries, and herbal teas. Nearby accommodation skews upscale ($220+), but sunset picnics on the lawns are free—and spectacular.

Ice Magic

From mid-Dec to late-Feb, Höheweg transforms into linked rinks and ice paths. Admission $12–$20 plus $8 for skate rental; evening sessions add music and light shows. Try curling-style games on dedicated lanes, then warm up with hot chocolate or a gooey cheese specialty.

Weissenau Reserve

Seek a quiet loop on boardwalks and lakeshore paths east of Unterseen. It's free, flat, and family-friendly; carry a reusable bottle and keep to marked trails. A short detour climbs the ruins of a medieval tower for open views across reeds, water, and snowy horizons.

Alpine Dairy

Up in the Justistal above Beatenberg, morning tours (Tue, Jun–Sep, 07:15) reveal traditional cheesemaking. Budget $20–$30 including a rustic breakfast of fresh loaves, local cheeses, and fruit. Wear sturdy shoes; short pasture walks are part of the visit and mornings can be dewy.

Winter Days

Base in Interlaken for day trips to the Jungfrau Ski Region (First, Kleine Scheidegg–Männlichen, Mürren–Schilthorn). Regional passes from $70/day; rental packages $45–$60/day. Closer, Beatenberg–Niederhorn suits learners and families, with sledding routes and winter hiking trails overlooking Lake Thun.

Spiez

A quick boat or train ride leads to vine-draped Spiez. Tour its lakeside castle (tickets $10–$14, Apr–Oct) and linger on the promenade. Signposted footpaths climb gentle hills for balcony views of the bay; pack a light jacket—lake breezes can surprise even in summer.

Sigriswil Bridge

This 330 m pedestrian suspension bridge floats 180 m above the Gummi Gorge. Entry $6–$10 via kiosk; combine with a downhill walk to Oberhofen's shoreline park and turreted landmark. For calmer foot traffic and softer light, start soon after breakfast.

Conclusion

From funicular sprints to glacier decks, calm swims to cliff bridges, Interlaken makes big nature effortless. Which moment are you claiming first—lake cruising, ridge hiking, or a sky-high train to the ice? Share your picks, and a budget or travel month, and a tailored day-by-day plan can come next.