A Weekend in Interlaken: The Perfect Itinerary

A weekend in Interlaken offers a mix of adrenaline and relaxation in one of Switzerland's most picturesque towns. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken serves as a gateway to the jungles and peaks of the Bernese Oberland. In this guide, you'll find a realistic two-day itinerary filled with adventure activities, scenic views, and ample time to enjoy the local culture.

Ank Kumar / CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Day 1: Adventure and Exploration

Morning: Arrival and Orientation

Begin your weekend in Interlaken by arriving via the beautiful train ride from Zurich or Bern. You will be greeted by the stunning sight of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks as you disembark at Interlaken Ost. After checking into your accommodation, grab breakfast at a local café like Café de Paris, where a hearty Swiss breakfast awaits, usually priced around 15–20 CHF.

Next, take a stroll along Höheweg, where you can soak in views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. This is an excellent opportunity to acclimatize and get a feel for the town’s layout.

Midday: Paragliding Adventure

Paragliding is perhaps the most thrilling of the Interlaken adventure activities, giving you views of the majestic Alps and Lake Thun below. Those new to paragliding can choose operators like Fly Interlaken or Paragliding Interlaken, which offer tandem flights with trained instructors. Expect prices to range from 140 to 220 CHF depending on the duration and video options.

Reserve your flight in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season. After a safety briefing, you will be driven to the launch site on the Harder Kulm, where you can also grab a coffee and view the breathtaking landscape before take-off.

Afternoon: Lunch and Recovery

After your exhilarating flight, you might want to indulge in a meal at Restaurant Taverne, where traditional Swiss dishes like rösti and fondue are served for around 30–50 CHF. This well-earned break will allow you to share stories about your paragliding experience.

Late Afternoon: Lake Brienz Boat Cruise

Take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Brienz, allowing you to unwind while basking in the natural beauty of turquoise waters surrounded by lush greens and towering peaks. Most cruises depart from the Interlaken Ost station and last about 1.5 hours, with adult tickets costing around 32 CHF.

Evening: Dinner and Night Stroll

Finish your day with dinner at Husi Bierhaus, which offers a lively atmosphere and a menu featuring local beers and Swiss cuisine. Expect to pay around 25-40 CHF per person here.

Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River. The paths are often quiet in the evening, affording you a moment to reflect on your first day in Interlaken.

Day 2: More Adventures and Local Culture

Morning: Canyoning in the Outdoors

After breakfast at your hotel or a local bakery, head out for a canyoning tour in the nearby Lauterbrunnen Valley, known for its stunning waterfalls and rugged terrain. Companies like Outdoor Interlaken offer guided tours that include all necessary gear for around 135 to 190 CHF. Canyoning allows you to abseil down waterfalls, jump into natural pools, and navigate slick rocks, making this an activity filled with excitement.

Afternoon: Sightseeing in Lauterbrunnen

After canyoning, make your way back to Lauterbrunnen, just a 20-minute bus ride from Interlaken. Explore the stunning Trümmelbach Falls, a series of impressive waterfalls inside the mountain, which is accessible via a short walk. Entrance costs around 12 CHF.

You can also grab lunch at a local eatery in Lauterbrunnen, enjoying a meal priced between 20–35 CHF. The local scenery is perfect for a photo or two.

Late Afternoon: Skydiving for the Brave

If you are still feeling adventurous, consider booking a skydiving experience through an operator like Skydive Interlaken. Freefall from a plane provides a different perspective of the Bernese Oberland. Prices usually range from 450 to 600 CHF. Ensure to book ahead, as spots can fill quickly.

Evening: Local Evening Markets or Cozy Fondue

If your weekend coincides with one of Interlaken’s local evening markets, take the time to explore the stalls for unique souvenirs and local crafts. If not, indulge in a traditional Swiss fondue at The 3 Tells café, where you can expect to pay around 30 CHF for a portion to share.

Exploring and Enjoying Interlaken

While the primary focus of your weekend in Interlaken will be on adventure activities, there is no shortage of other things to do in Interlaken. Engage in other local pursuits by checking out quaint shops or enjoying a coffee at one of the lakeside parks.

Relaxation and Scenic Spots

Frolic in the parks that dot the landscape. Øuchiga Park is ideal for unwinding in the sun after a long day. Like many spots in the area, it offers stellar views of the surrounding peaks.

Safety Considerations

As with all adventure activities, safety is paramount. Always ensure the operators you choose for paragliding, canyoning, or skydiving adhere to safety regulations and use certified instructors. Always wear appropriate gear as instructed.

Getting Around Interlaken

Interlaken offers ample options for getting around town. The local bus network is efficient and connects the central parts of Interlaken with nearby attractions. For a short trip, a single ticket typically costs around 4 CHF, while a day pass can be around 10 CHF. If you prefer cycling, many shops rent bikes, with prices starting from 25 CHF per day.

Exploring Nearby Villages

Interlaken is well-positioned for exploring nearby villages like Grindelwald and Gimmelwald. Grindelwald is about 30 minutes from Interlaken by train and offers breathtaking views of the Eiger. The train fare is around 15 CHF one way. Gimmelwald is a charming little village accessible by cable car or hiking. The Schilthorn cable car from Stechelberg to Gimmelwald costs about 35 CHF for a return trip and offers panoramic views of the area.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time for a weekend in Interlaken?

The best time to visit for a weekend in Interlaken is between May and September when adventure activities are in full swing. The warmer weather permits outdoor pursuits like paragliding and canyoning, while the idyllic scenery attracts many visitors.

How much does paragliding in Interlaken cost?

Paragliding in Interlaken typically costs between 140 and 220 CHF for a tandem flight. Prices vary based on the duration of the flight and any additional video services you may choose to purchase.

What other adventure activities can I do in Interlaken?

Other popular adventure activities in Interlaken include canyoning, bungee jumping at the Stockhorn, and skydiving over the Alps. Each offers unique perspectives of the incredible landscape.

How do I get from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen?

Lauterbrunnen is easily accessible from Interlaken via bus or train. The journey takes about 20 minutes and offers scenic views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

Can I combine different activities in one day in Interlaken?

It is possible to combine activities in one day, but plan for time constraints, especially for activities like canyoning and paragliding. Ensure to allow enough time for recovery and meals.

Ready to go

Ready to book your adventure? Browse experiences in Switzerland on Roundtripski. Keep planning with the adventure guide to Zermatt and the adventure guide to Grindelwald.