Interlaken is one of those Swiss towns that, for me, works perfectly as a base for exploring the Jungfrau Region. Its location feels almost like nature planned it on purpose: the town sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau forming a dramatic alpine backdrop. From here, it is also incredibly easy to connect by train, boat, bus, and cable car to the surrounding villages and mountains.
But the fun of Interlaken is not only that it is a convenient gateway. This is one of Switzerland’s true adventure towns. Whether you want to try paragliding, take a scenic lake cruise, ride a jet boat, go hiking, ski in winter, or head out to beautiful villages like Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Iseltwald, and Giessbach, Interlaken makes a great starting point for all of it.
I have now visited Interlaken twice, once in winter and once around spring, so this review combines both seasons into one guide. That means if you suddenly see snowy mountain photos followed by green fields and warmer-weather scenes, don’t be surprised. That is exactly how this Interlaken review came together.
รีวิวเที่ยวสวิตเซอร์แลนด์🇨🇭♥️
- Zurich (ซูริค)
- Bern (เบิร์น)
- Lucerne (ลูเซิร์น)
- Interlaken (อินเทอร์ลาเคิน) + แนะนำที่พักในอินเทอร์ลาเคิน
- Lake Brienz (ทะเลสาบเบรียนซ์)
- Giessbach Falls (น้ำตกกีสบาค)
- Iseltwald (อิเซิลท์วัลด์)
- Lauterbrunnen (เลาเทอร์บรุนเนน)
- Gimmelwald (กิมเมลวาลด์)
- Mürren (เมอร์เรน)
- Jungfraujoch (ยอดเขาจุงเฟรายอค)
- Mount Rigi (ภูเขาริกิ)
- Montreux (มองเทรอซ์)
- Lausanne (โลซานน์)
- Vevey (เวอแว)
- Rapperswil (ราพเพอร์สวิล)
Getting to Know Interlaken
Interlaken is a town in the canton of Bern and is known as one of Switzerland’s classic resort towns. Its biggest charm is the setting. Interlaken sits right between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the Aare River running through the town and mountains rising all around it. This is why Interlaken is often described as the town between two lakes.
The town is also one of the main gateways to Jungfrau, home to the highest railway station in Europe at Jungfraujoch. That alone makes Interlaken a major hub for outdoor activities. In the past, the area was known locally as “Aarmühle,” but in 1891 the official name was changed to Interlaken, a name that was easier for visitors to remember and better matched the town’s identity. Since then, Interlaken has grown into a destination for travelers who want to relax in nature, climb mountains, enjoy adventure sports, and explore some of the most beautiful alpine scenery in Switzerland. If you love nature travel, Interlaken really does feel like a little paradise on earth.
How Many Days Do You Need in Interlaken?
At the fastest pace, Interlaken can be visited in one day. You could walk around town, watch paragliders land at Höhematte, take a short lake cruise, or choose one mountain excursion such as Harder Kulm or Grindelwald First. But if you want the trip to feel complete without rushing too much, I would recommend at least 2–3 days. The area branches out into so many places, from Lake Thun and Lake Brienz to the wider Jungfrau Region.
For me, Interlaken works better as a base than as a quick photo stop. Once you actually give the town some time, you get lake views, small-town charm, adventure activities, and a full dose of Swiss nature. If this is your first trip to Switzerland, I would stay here for at least two nights to make the whole area much easier and more enjoyable.
Things to Do in Interlaken
- Höhematte Park
- Paragliding
- Walking Around Interlaken
- Lake Thun Cruise
- Lake Brienz Cruise
- Grindelwald Village
- Grindelwald First
- Lauberhorn Ski Race
Where to Stay in Interlaken
เที่ยวให้คุ้มและเดินทางง่ายขึ้นด้วย Swiss Travel Pass
ใครที่แพลนเที่ยวสวิตเซอร์แลนด์หลายเมือง ก๊อตแนะนำให้ลองเช็ก Swiss Travel Pass ไว้ตั้งแต่ก่อนบินเลย เพราะพาสนี้ช่วยให้การเดินทางด้วยรถไฟ บัส เรือ และระบบขนส่งสาธารณ์ในหลายเมืองทั่วสวิสได้ง่ายขึ้นมาก ไม่ต้องคอยซื้อตั๋วแยกทีละขาให้ปวดหัว เหมาะสุดๆ กับทริปที่ใช้รถไฟเป็นหลัก หรือมีเดย์ทริปหลายวัน
นอกจากเรื่องเดินทางแล้ว Swiss Travel Pass ยังใช้กับรถไฟชมวิวพาโนรามาหลายเส้นทาง เช่น Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Express และ Gotthard Panorama Express โดยบางขบวนอาจต้องจองที่นั่งหรือจ่ายเพิ่มในราคาพิเศษ นอกจากนี้ พาสเองยังรวมค่าเข้าพิพิธภัณฑ์กว่า 500 แห่งทั่วสวิตเซอร์แลนด์ และยังใช้ขึ้นภูเขาบางแห่งได้ฟรี เช่น Rigi, Stanserhorn และ Stoos ส่วนยอดเขา/กระเช้าอีกหลายแห่งมักมีส่วนลดให้ตามเงื่อนไขที่ถูกกว่าปกติด้วยนะ
ถ้ารูทของเราเที่ยวหลายเมือง นั่งรถไฟบ่อย นั่งเรือด้วย หรือมีแพลนเข้ามิวเซียม ก๊อตว่าพาสนี้มีโอกาสคุ้มและช่วยให้ทริปสวิตเซอร์แลนด์ไหลลื่นขึ้นเยอะมาก แนะนำให้ลองเทียบราคากับรูทของตัวเองก่อนซื้อได้เลย ตัวเลือกพาสมีให้ซื้อหลากหลาย ทั้งแบบพาสแบบต่อเนื่อง 3, 4, 8 หรือ 15 วัน หรือแบบยืดหยุ่นสำหรับการใช้ตามจำนวนวันในเวลาที่กำหนด และที่สะดวกสุดเลยก็คือ เค้าพาสแบบ E-Ticket ที่สามารถใช้บัตรผ่านมือถือได้แบบสบายๆ บอกเลยโคตรจะดี
> เช็คราคาและซื้อ Swiss Travel Pass [ผ่าน Klook] / [ผ่าน KKday] / [ผ่าน GetYourGuide]
What Can You Use the Swiss Travel Pass for in Interlaken?
In Interlaken, the Swiss Travel Pass can be very useful because this town is not just a pretty place between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It is also a gateway to the Jungfrau Region, where many travelers continue by train to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Wengen, Mürren, and Jungfraujoch. If your itinerary includes trains, boats, buses, and mountain excursions over several days, having a pass can make the trip smoother and often more cost-effective.
What the Swiss Travel Pass covers around Interlaken
- You can use it for train travel to and from Interlaken, whether you are coming from Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, or other cities in Switzerland.
- You can use it to travel between the city’s main stations, Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost, by train or local bus on routes covered by the pass.
- You can use it on many boat routes on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, which is one of the highlights of visiting Interlaken, especially if you plan to stop at Iseltwald or Giessbach Falls.
- You can use it for train travel from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald according to the pass conditions, which is great if you are using Interlaken as your base for the Jungfrau Region.
- You can use it for discounts on Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald First, and several other mountain railways and cable cars in the area, depending on each route’s conditions.
- You can also use it to enter more than 500 museums across Switzerland for free, including many museums in cities you may visit during the same trip.
For me, Interlaken is one of the places where the Swiss Travel Pass can genuinely make a trip easier because the routes here involve a lot of trains, boats, buses, and mountain connections. If your plan goes beyond just walking around town and includes Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, or the Jungfrau Region over several days, it is worth checking the Swiss Travel Pass against your actual route before buying tickets separately.
However, if your main focus is only the Jungfrau Region for several days, such as Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Mürren, First, and Jungfraujoch, you should also compare it with the Jungfrau Travel Pass or the Berner Oberland Pass. Depending on your itinerary, these regional passes may be better value for certain mountain routes.
If you stay overnight in Interlaken, also remember to ask your accommodation about the Interlaken Guest Card. This card usually gives you free local public transport within designated areas and some discounts on activities around the Interlaken region. So if your plan focuses mainly on walking around town or taking short local bus rides, this card can already help you save money. I see the Swiss Travel Pass more as a main pass for a wider Switzerland itinerary rather than something you should judge only from Interlaken itself.
> Check prices and buy the Swiss Travel Pass [via Klook] / [via KKday] / [via GetYourGuide]
Where to Stay in Interlaken
If you are looking for accommodation in Interlaken, I would start with the two main areas: Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost. Interlaken West is better if you want to be close to restaurants, shops, supermarkets, and a livelier town atmosphere. Interlaken Ost is better if you want easy access to trains, boats, and routes into the Jungfrau Region, such as Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Jungfraujoch.
Another area worth considering is Matten bei Interlaken, which feels quieter and more village-like. It is good for travelers who want a more peaceful stay with fields and mountain views while still being close enough to town. Overall, if this is your first time in Interlaken and you want the easiest base for moving around, I would choose Interlaken Ost. If you prefer walking around town and finding dinner easily in the evening, Interlaken West is very comfortable too.
⭐️ Read the Interlaken hotel guide: best areas to stay and recommended hotels for 2026
1. Interlaken West
If you want to stay in a lively area where you can easily walk to restaurants, supermarkets, and shops, Interlaken West is a great choice. This is one of the most popular areas for travelers because it is convenient in many ways. You have Coop, Migros, and plenty of restaurants nearby, so it is especially good if you like walking around town and finding dinner without planning too much. Interlaken West Station also connects easily to larger cities such as Bern, Zurich, and Lucerne, and bus 21 links this side of town with Interlaken Ost. The area is also not far from Lake Thun, the Aare River, and Harder Kulm. If you want a convenient area with a bit more life, this side works really well.
- Top-tier, luxury, and boutique hotels (THB 10,000++ per night): Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa / Stella Hotel Interlaken
- Good mid-range hotels (THB 5,000–10,000 per night): Bed & Bar No.8 / Hotel Post-Hardermannli
- Budget hotels and hostels (under THB 3,000 per night): Alplodge Interlaken
2. Interlaken Ost
For the most convenient transport base in Interlaken, Interlaken Ost is hard to beat. This is where trains, boats, and buses come together, making it ideal if you plan to head into the Jungfrau Region. From Interlaken Ost Station, you can easily travel to famous villages such as Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen, or continue toward Jungfraujoch. It is also close to the boat pier for Lake Brienz cruises. If you want a slightly quieter area than Interlaken West and care most about getting around easily, this is the area I would pick.
- Top-tier, luxury, and boutique hotels (THB 10,000++ per night): Hotel Royal St Georges Interlaken – MGallery / Hapimag Resort Interlaken
- Good mid-range hotels (THB 5,000–10,000 per night): Interlaken Youth Hostel
- Budget hotels and hostels (under THB 5,000 per night): Riverlodge
3. Matten bei Interlaken
If you want to stay away from the busier parts of town and prefer a more local village atmosphere surrounded by fields and mountains, Matten bei Interlaken is another interesting option. This area used to be an agricultural community and still keeps that village charm, with classic wooden houses and a calmer mood than the main station areas. It is good for travelers who want to slow down, wake up to cool morning air, and still have access to activities such as paragliding and short hikes. Even though it sits around 1.5–2.5 kilometers from Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West, buses 21, 102, and 103 make it easy to get around. If you want somewhere peaceful, not too expensive, and still practical, Matten is worth considering.
- Good mid-range hotels (THB 5,000–10,000 per night): Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof / Balmers Hostel
- Budget hotels and hostels (under THB 5,000 per night): Funny Farm Backpackers
Taking the Train from Zurich to Interlaken
For this trip, I flew into Zurich first, spent a few nights there, and then continued by train to Interlaken. This was actually my second time taking the train from Zurich to Interlaken because I had also done the same route during my winter trip.
The scenery along the way is full of villages, rolling hills, and forests. What I loved was how different the route felt between the two seasons. In winter, both sides of the tracks were covered in soft white snow, almost like the train was gliding through a sea of marshmallows. In spring, there was no snow, but the whole atmosphere felt warmer and more romantic in a different way.
The train ride from Zurich to Interlaken takes a little over two hours. Eventually, we arrived at Interlaken Ost. From there, I took my luggage to the bus, dropped it off at the hotel, and started exploring Interlaken right away.
Let’s Start Exploring Interlaken
Höhematte Park
Höhematte is the large green park in the middle of Interlaken, located right in front of The VICTORIA-JUNGFRAU Grand Hotel & Spa. The land was once part of an Augustinian monastery before it was dissolved in the 16th century and later used for agriculture. In 1860, a group of local hotel owners formed a cooperative to purchase the land and preserve it as an open public space, both to beautify the town and to make Interlaken even more appealing to visitors.
Today, Höhematte serves as a public park and a gathering place for both locals and travelers. It is surrounded by green lawns and seasonal flower beds, which make the area especially colorful in spring and summer. In winter, parts of the open field can transform into an ice-skating area where people come out to enjoy the cold season together.
One of the biggest highlights is the view. From the park, you can see the famous trio of Interlaken’s mountains: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. With green lawns, beautiful buildings, and the mountain peaks rising in the background, the mood here is incredibly photogenic. It is the kind of view that makes you want to take your camera out every three minutes.
Höhematte is also used as the landing field for paragliding in town. During the day, you will often see paragliders descending into the park almost constantly. If you want a relaxing place to walk, watch the mountains, and enjoy the atmosphere of Interlaken, this is where I would start.
Paragliding
If you want a true once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience, paragliding in Interlaken is one activity I highly recommend. For this trip, I went with Twin Paragliding, a local company that takes you flying above the town with a professional tandem pilot. Every gust of wind that hit my face felt unbelievably exciting.
🪂 See and book paragliding in Interlaken [via Klook] / [via GetYourGuide]
The process was easy. When you book, you choose your time slot. At the scheduled time, the company either picks you up from your accommodation or you meet them near Höhematte Park. From there, they drive you up to the takeoff point at Amisbühl on Beatenberg, about 1,350 meters above sea level. The ride from town takes around 30 minutes.
When we reached the mountain, the fog was quite heavy, so the pilots stopped at a few different spots to find the best takeoff point. Once the wind looked right, it was time to gear up. They helped me put on all the safety equipment, the pilot clipped in behind me, and then gave a short briefing. The instruction was simple: just run forward. When the pilot counted three, two, one, I ran as hard as I could. After only a few steps, my feet lifted off the ground and we were in the sky.
Once I was up there, everything around me looked so beautiful that I honestly did not know how to describe it properly. Cool air hit my face, my hands were waving in the air, and for a moment I really felt like a bird flying over Switzerland. From above, you can usually see the Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the town below. Unfortunately, the day I flew was very cloudy, so the mountain views were not as clear as I had hoped. Still, the experience itself was unforgettable.



We spent around 20 minutes in the air before the pilot gradually descended back toward Höhematte. The most thrilling part came right before landing, when the pilot spun us through the air in a series of fast turns like a mini roller coaster in the sky. It was intense, exciting, and so much fun. We landed safely on the grass, and that was the end of one of my long-time bucket-list experiences. If you visit Interlaken and have the chance, try paragliding at least once.
🪂 See and book paragliding in Interlaken [via Klook] / [via GetYourGuide]
Walking Around Interlaken
After flying through the sky, I wanted to slow things down a little and walk through the town. My route started from Höhematte and followed the main road toward Interlaken Ost. Along the way, this area is a bit of a shopping paradise, especially if you are into Swiss watches. You will see plenty of luxury watch shops, souvenir stores, and brands such as Omega, Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Tissot.
Once you pass the busier shopping area, you reach the leafy Kursaal Garden, a peaceful green space near Kursaal Interlaken. The area is filled with trees and ornamental plants, and Kursaal itself is used for events, concerts, and entertainment in town.
Besides the shops, the streets are lined with pretty buildings and small everyday scenes of local life. You may see people sitting outside with coffee and newspapers, enjoying the kind of slow atmosphere that is hard to find in bigger cities. Some corners also have small flower beds that add a lovely touch of color to the town.








Further along the walk, I came across Japanischer Garten Interlaken, a small Japanese garden hidden among older buildings. It has a calm atmosphere, a koi pond, and quiet corners where you can sit and relax for a while.
After walking a little more, the Aare River came into view. Along the riverside, there are benches where people sit and rest, surrounded by turquoise water, trees, and houses. It is such an easy scene to look at. In some areas, ducks and geese float along the river or waddle around on the ground, making the whole walk feel even more charming.




Eventually, I reached Interlaken Ost Station. If you have just finished paragliding and want to explore the town on foot, this is a nice and easy walking route to follow.
Lake Thun Cruise
When you come to Interlaken, the town between two lakes, one activity I think you should not miss is a scenic boat cruise. You can choose between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and both have different moods. Lake Thun feels wider and has towns and castles along the shore, while Lake Brienz is known for its vivid turquoise water and more dramatic mountain scenery.
For Lake Thun, you can board the boat from the Interlaken West side and cruise toward the town of Thun. Timetables and travel times vary by season. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, this route is especially worth considering because many lake cruises are included at no extra cost.
The Lake Thun cruise moves at a relaxed pace across the wide water, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery on both sides. The boats are usually double-decker vessels with both indoor and outdoor seating. Some travelers come for a relaxed meal or dinner on board, but since I was not eating, I went up to the upper deck and glass panorama area to focus entirely on the view. From there, the scenery felt so good that I barely wanted to blink.
Personally, I really enjoyed this cruise. It felt like a proper slow-travel moment, with emerald-colored water, charming wooden villages on the hillsides, and snow-capped Swiss Alps in the background. It was calm, scenic, and genuinely healing.
After about two hours, I got off at the pier in Thun, a town that felt busier than Interlaken. By the time I arrived, the sky was getting darker and the weather was shifting into evening, so I walked around the town a little before taking the train back to Interlaken.
Lake Brienz Cruise
Another lake cruise I highly recommend is Lake Brienz, one of the most beautiful lakes north of the Alps. The lake is about 14 kilometers long, 2.8 kilometers wide, and reaches a depth of around 260 meters. It is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water and dramatic scenery, making it one of the most charming lakes in Switzerland. The lake area also offers water activities, hiking trails, and lakeside viewpoints that attract both locals and travelers throughout the year.
For a Lake Brienz cruise, we boarded at the pier near Interlaken Ost. The full route goes to Brienz, but on this trip I cruised only as far as Giessbach Falls before returning to Interlaken. If you have more time and want to fully enjoy the lake, you can ride all the way to the end and come back. A direct cruise without stops takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes each way, but since I stopped along the route, the whole outing took almost a full day. Timetables vary by season. When I went, the first boat of the day started around 9:00, so be sure to check the latest schedule before planning your route.
As soon as the boat left Interlaken Ost, the atmosphere became wonderfully calm. Cool air and a gentle breeze hit my face, ducks floated across the surface, and the scenery on both sides was full of wooden villages, green mountains, and tall cliffs. It was the kind of view you can keep watching without getting bored.
ถ้าคิดว่ารีวิวนี้มีประโยชน์ เลี้ยงกาแฟก๊อตซักแก้วได้นะครับ 😆💙
จะได้มีแรงใจทำรีวิวออกมาให้ทุกคนได้อ่านเรื่อยๆ ครับ
Our first stop on Lake Brienz was Iseltwald, a small fishing village by the lake. If you want a romantic lakeside atmosphere surrounded by fairytale-like nature, this village is beautiful. You will find colorful wooden chalets, emerald lake views, towering mountains, and the famous filming location from the Korean drama Crash Landing on You.
The main highlight here is the Crash Landing on You Pier, a small wooden pier extending into the lake near the main boat stop. This is the spot that appeared in the famous piano scene with Ri Jeong-hyeok. It has become a must-visit photo point for fans of the series. Just a note: there is now an entry fee of CHF 5 to take photos on the pier, which you can pay at the machine by the entrance. The queue can be long, but the photo really does come out beautifully.
I spent about an hour walking around Iseltwald and sitting at a small restaurant-bar in the village. The atmosphere was peaceful, with classic brown Swiss chalets, a small playground, flower gardens, and Seeburg Castle, which was built in 1907. With its romantic little castle-like architecture and mountain backdrop, it is another beautiful spot for photos.
After taking plenty of photos, I walked back to the pier and continued by boat toward Giessbach Falls, which is not far from Iseltwald. The route between the two stops was full of beautiful Lake Brienz views, with warm wooden houses along the shore, steep mountains, and even large castle-like buildings appearing along the way.
Giessbach Falls sits in a beautiful natural area above Lake Brienz. The waterfall begins from the high valley around Faulhorn and cascades over 14 tiers for more than 400 meters. In the 19th century, walking paths were built up to the waterfall, including a trail that allows visitors to walk behind the falling water. Since then, Giessbach has attracted travelers who come to admire its scenery. At the foot of the waterfall stands the historic Grand Hotel Giessbach, a classic hotel from the golden age of Swiss tourism that makes the whole setting feel even more cinematic.




To explore the falls, I followed the Circular Trail, a green walking route of about 2.8 kilometers that starts near the hotel and loops around the waterfall. Along the way, the trail passes through a damp forest filled with moss-covered trees, roots, rocks, and the constant sound of water rushing down the cliffs. You also get beautiful views of Lake Brienz and the Grand Hotel Giessbach on the hillside. It is honestly a gorgeous nature walk.





After taking photos, I walked back down toward the hotel and continued to the pier to catch the boat. I chose to walk down rather than take the funicular because the path was not too tiring and offered more lovely forest views along the way. For anyone who likes nature with a bit of adventure, Giessbach Falls is absolutely worth adding to your Interlaken itinerary.
Jet Boat Ride
If a peaceful Lake Brienz cruise is not quite enough and you want to add something more exciting to the trip, I recommend trying a jet boat ride. This activity takes you across Lake Brienz at high speed, surrounded by mountains, cliffs, waterfalls, and lakeside towns.
🚤 See and book a jet boat ride in Interlaken [via Klook] / [via GetYourGuide]
The jet boat departs from the jet boat pier in Interlaken. The boat itself is a small red speedboat that can reach up to 85 kilometers per hour. Before boarding, everyone puts on a waterproof suit and rain jacket because once the boat starts speeding and spinning, the lake water splashes everywhere. Trust me, you will get wet.
Once the boat shot out onto the lake, our captain kept the whole ride fun by sharing stories, small facts, and quiz-style questions about Lake Brienz. We passed cliffs, waterfalls, villages, and a few special viewpoints along the way. The most exciting moments were the 360-degree spins. The captain gave a warning before each spin so everyone could get ready for the GoPro camera at the front of the boat. When the boat turned at full speed, water splashed straight into our faces. I sat in the front row, so without the waterproof suit I would have been soaked from head to toe.
The jet boat ride takes around 50 minutes, depending on the route and weather conditions. It is scenic, thrilling, and very fun. If you want to add more energy to your Interlaken trip, this is a great activity, but be prepared to get wet and check the operating season before booking.
🚤 See and book a jet boat ride in Interlaken [via Klook] / [via GetYourGuide]
Grindelwald Village
If you still have time after exploring Interlaken, I would take the train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald. The journey takes about 35 minutes and brings you to Grindelwald Station, right in the middle of a classic Swiss wooden village with a long history. The area has been settled since the Middle Ages and was once an important farming village.
Today, Grindelwald is famous for its mountain scenery and year-round outdoor activities, so the village is lively and full of travelers. My first goal here was to take the Firstbahn cable car from Grindelwald up to Grindelwald First. Before reaching the cable car station, I walked through the village, passing restaurants, shops, and streets lined with wooden buildings. The whole area felt busy but charming.
The cable car departs from Firstbahn, also known as Grindelwald BGF. The ride itself is already a highlight. As the gondola climbs higher, you can see the valley below, chalets scattered across the slopes, and cows, sheep, and goats grazing along the hills. Some parts of the route reveal waterfalls and forests, and on a clear day the view must be absolutely heavenly.





As the gondola continued upward, the houses below became smaller and smaller until the view opened up into layered hills, green and brown slopes, and endless forests. On the day I went, white fog floated close to the gondola, making the whole ride feel almost dreamlike. The real view was far more beautiful than any photo could fully capture.
Grindelwald First
After enjoying the gondola ride, I reached the top station at Grindelwald First, 2,168 meters above sea level. This is a paradise for outdoor activity lovers. There are plenty of thrilling activities, including the First Flyer, where you hang from a zipline and fly along an 800-meter route at up to 84 kilometers per hour, the First Glider, which lets you glide like a bird, and the First Mountain Cart, where you ride a three-wheeled cart down the mountain.
The main thing I wanted to do here was the First Cliff Walk, a cliffside walkway built along the mountain face. The highlight is the suspension bridge with views over the Grindelwald valley and the Eiger, plus a viewing platform that extends out from the cliff. Unfortunately, the fog was extremely thick when I visited, so everything around me turned almost completely white and I could barely see the view. I still took what photos I could, and I also included some clear-weather reference photos from Switzerland Tourism so you can imagine how beautiful this place can be.





On a clear day, this walkway must be incredible. You get wide alpine views, dramatic cliffs, and that true Swiss mountain feeling. Overall, Grindelwald First is one of the things I think you should do if you visit this area, especially if you like outdoor adventures. When the weather is on your side, the scenery here is genuinely worth a million.
Berggasthaus First Restaurant
If you get hungry after walking around, there is a restaurant called Berggasthaus First near the top station. You can reach it from the station or after finishing the cliff walk. This restaurant is known for its mountain views, so dining here on a clear day must be even more special.
The interior feels warm and homey, with lots of wood and a cozy alpine atmosphere. There are both indoor seats and an outdoor terrace. The menu focuses on traditional Swiss food such as cheese fondue, raclette, local dishes, main courses, and drinks.
One dish I especially recommend is the Swiss-style Älpler Mac and Cheese, a pasta dish mixed with bite-sized potatoes in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy bacon and fragrant fried onions. It is served with apple sauce, which helps balance the richness. There are also wines, coffee, soft drinks, and hot chocolate. If you want to eat at Grindelwald First, Berggasthaus First is a solid choice, and I think the rich, cheesy flavors would suit Thai travelers very well.


Alpine Gemshütte
Next to the restaurant is a small alpine hut on the hillside called Alpine Gemshütte. It used to be a chapel, but today it is part of the Grindelwald First Mountain Hotel accommodation spread across the mountain area. The hut can host up to 15 people, making it an interesting option for travelers who want to stay overnight on the mountain.
What makes it special is the atmosphere. Staying here means waking up to fog, mountain views, and a wide valley right outside the window. It is a lovely idea for a group trip or for anyone who wants a unique overnight experience on the mountain. The hut can also be used for weddings and ceremonies. Locals told me that many couples have held their weddings here, which makes it a real hidden gem of Grindelwald.
Lauberhorn Ski Race
Beyond the lake cruises and scenic places I mentioned earlier, I also had one very special experience near Interlaken: watching the Lauberhorn Ski Race. This is one of the biggest ski races in Europe and one of the most-watched winter sports events in the world, with more than 30,000 spectators each year. The race takes place on Lauberhorn, near Wengen and Grindelwald, not far from Interlaken.
I visited Interlaken with SWISS, which was one of the main sponsors of the event at the time, so I had the chance to experience the race in a very special way. Normally, you would travel up to Kleine Scheidegg by train to watch the race, but this time I got to fly there by helicopter. It was my first helicopter ride, and I was honestly so excited. From the sky, the snow-covered mountains below looked absolutely spectacular.




After landing at Kleine Scheidegg, I continued walking toward the Lauberhorn race area. Along the way, the scenery was full of Swiss Alps, snow, and the lively energy of people heading to ski or watch the race.
When we reached the event, the area was packed with spectators from around the world. Everyone was dressed for winter, standing in the snow, and ready to cheer. The Lauberhorn downhill course is legendary in the ski world because it is the longest downhill race course in the world at more than 4.4 kilometers. The average race time is around two and a half minutes, which is 30–45 seconds longer than many other courses. One of the most famous sections is Haneggschuss, where racers can reach speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour, among the fastest speeds in World Cup skiing.





Another highlight that everyone waits for is the aerial display by Patrouille Suisse, the Swiss Air Force aerobatic team. Their F-5E Tiger II jets fly above the Alps with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau in the background. It is dramatic, powerful, and one of the most memorable winter moments I have experienced in Switzerland.
Around the race area, the atmosphere was full of alpine scenery and the excitement of people cheering in the snow. If you want to see the Lauberhorn Ski Race, it is usually held every January in Wengen, close to Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region. The schedule changes each year, so check the official dates and book tickets in advance. Accommodation in Interlaken, Wengen, and Grindelwald fills up quickly during the event, and transportation to the race area requires careful planning.
For me, this was a special experience I had through SWISS, so I see it as a bonus section in this Interlaken review rather than a standard attraction. But if you visit in winter and enjoy skiing or world-class sporting events, this is absolutely something worth experiencing once.
Where I Stayed in Interlaken
The VICTORIA-JUNGFRAU Grand Hotel & Spa
I stayed at two different accommodations in Interlaken, and I will start with the grandest one: The VICTORIA-JUNGFRAU Grand Hotel & Spa. This is a five-star hotel with more than 150 years of history, and its location is incredible. It stands right in the center of town, directly in front of Höhematte. Even from the outside, the building looks every bit like a true grand hotel.
The room I stayed in was a Junior Suite Deluxe for two people, although I stayed alone. The room was about 40 square meters and felt spacious, with separate areas for the bedroom, sitting area, and bathroom. Even better, my room faced the front of the hotel toward the Swiss Alps. It also had a balcony where I could sit, relax, and enjoy the view of the town and the green park outside. It was honestly wonderful.
Inside the room, the layout was practical and the amenities were complete. There was a work desk, a sofa bed for relaxing, and a coffee machine with complimentary capsules that were refilled regularly, which made me very happy as a coffee person. The bed was thick, soft, and extremely comfortable. And the bathroom was huge. It felt almost like a palace bathroom from an old European film. I was genuinely impressed.
Breakfast was also very good, with many choices served in a beautiful dining room. I regret not taking photos of the breakfast room, but if you stay here, definitely wake up for breakfast. The atmosphere really makes you feel like you are practicing how to live like royalty for a morning.
If your budget allows, I really recommend trying The VICTORIA-JUNGFRAU Grand Hotel & Spa. The price is definitely high, but when you consider the atmosphere and the extremely convenient central location, it feels worth it. Entry-level rooms start from around THB 12,000 per night, while the Junior Suite Deluxe I stayed in starts from around THB 25,000 per night.
Book and compare prices: Agoda / Booking.com / Expedia / Trip / Klook
Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof
After staying at one of the most luxurious hotels in town, the other accommodation I tried was much more budget-friendly: Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof. This friendly hostel is very popular among groups of friends and backpackers because it offers affordable rooms, simple accommodation, several room types, and plenty of shared spaces.
Rooms at Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof include both dorm rooms and private rooms. Dorms are good for solo travelers who want to meet people, while private rooms come in different sizes, from single rooms to six-bed rooms. I stayed in a private twin room. The room was just the right size, with enough space to open luggage comfortably. My window faced the road, and across the street there was a grassy area where cows were tied up to graze. All night long, I could hear the little cowbells ringing.
The room had the basics, including luggage space and a small table and chairs where I could work. The common areas were very useful, especially the kitchen. If you like cooking while traveling, you will love it here because the kitchen has pans, pots, stoves, refrigerators, and all kinds of cooking equipment. You can cook your own meal and eat in the shared dining area.



There is also a laundry room, lounge, and other shared spaces that guests can use. The hostel covers the practical needs of a stay very well. They also include a simple breakfast with cereal, bread, and jam. Overall, Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof was a good hostel in my opinion. If you want to save money on accommodation and spend more on experiences, this is a place I would recommend. It is clean, calm, and not chaotic despite being a hostel.
- Book and compare prices: Agoda / Booking.com / Expedia / Trip / Klook
Final Thoughts on Visiting Interlaken
For me, Interlaken is not only special because of the town itself, but because it makes it so easy to reach the nature around it. Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, Iseltwald, Giessbach, Grindelwald First, and the routes into the Jungfrau Region all feel very accessible from here. That makes Interlaken a great base for travelers who want a full Switzerland experience: scenic trains, lake cruises, adventure activities, and slow moments surrounded by mountains.
If this is your first trip to Switzerland, I would give Interlaken at least 2–3 days. There is much more to do here than many people expect. You can come as a relaxed traveler, an adventure lover, or someone who wants a convenient base for nearby villages and mountains. The longer I stayed, the more I understood why this part of Switzerland feels so good.
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