What are the best summer activities in Interlaken?
Interlaken, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is known for its beautiful landscapes, the view of the famous Jungfraujoch, but also for its countless activities and sights. In order for you to experience the best of the best during your stay, we have collected insider tips for you so that you can get the most out of your stay!
MuST-Do: Paragliding in Interlaken
Would you like to do something exciting, out of the ordinary, during your visit to Interlaken? Then a paragliding flight is a must for you! Together with an experienced and professional tandem pilot you start from Beatenberg at almost 1500m. above sea level and fly over the blue Lake Thun with a view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. You can easily book the flight with Skywings Paragliding. We have been operating tandem flights for many years and guarantee a safe and professional adventure in the sky!
Time commitment: 1.5 hours
Season: All year round
Suitable for: Everyone! Minimum age 4 years
Maximumgewicht: 90kg / 200lbs
On Interlaken's local mountain: Harder Kulm
This activity is perfect if you want to get a quick overview of Interlaken! The station of the Harder Kulm funicular is only 5 minutes from the Interlaken Ost train stationwhich takes you to Interlaken’s local mountain in 10 minutes. At 1,322 meters above sea level there is a platform that offers you a great view over Interlaken, the two lakes and the famous mountain trio Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. If you feel hungry or thirsty, you can eat in the panorama restaurant. One of the most beautiful high-altitude hikes in Switzerland starts from here, leading over the Hardergrat to the Augstmatthorn.
Time required: 1 hour
Season: May to November
Suitable for: All
Walking on eternal snow: The Jungfraujoch
This activity takes a bit of time, but if you’re staying in Interlaken for a few days, be sure to visit the Jungfraujoch !The train takes you from Interlaken to the highest train station in Europe at 3454 meters above sea level in just 2 hours. The first highlight is the train ride itself, which takes you along roaring rivers and lush green meadows. Arriving on the Jungfraujoch, a breathtaking view of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding four-thousand meter peaks of the Bernese and Valais Alps awaits you! Take the perfect souvenir photo on the Sphinx viewing platform, take some steps in the crunchy snow, visit the Ice Palace or have fun in the Snow fun park.
Time required: 5 to 6 hours
Season: all year round
Suitable for: Everyone
River rafting for adventurers
Did you know that Interlaken in Switzerland is something like Queenstown in New Zealand? It is not without reason that the city is also called the Adventure Capital of Europe. Nature lovers and adrenaline junkies can experience an incredible number of outdoor activities here! Such as whitewater river rafting on the famous Lütschine river. Under the command of a certified guide, you will navigate the rafting boat safely through the wild rapids. The Lütschine starts at the foot of the Eiger and ends in Lake Brienz.
Time required: 4 hours
Season: May to September
Suitable for: swimmers
Minimum age: 14 years
Maximumgewicht: 135 kg / 290 lbs
Discover Lake Brienz from a jetboat
You like water, but river rafting is a bit too wild for you? We have many other activities in Interlaken that promise less excitement but all the more enjoyment! How about a jetboat ride on Lake Brienz, for example? This tour takes you to the 14 cascades of the Giessbach Falls and is packed with a unique riding experience, 360° spins and a tiny bit of adrenaline.
Time required: 1.5 hours
Season: May to Octobe
Suitable for: All
Minimum age: 5 years
Easy hike in Grindelwald
Are you looking for sporty activities during your stay in Interlaken? Then a hike is a nice way to see the Swiss Alps! The hike from the First to the Bachalpsee is just right for you if you like to take it easy and, above all, want to enjoy the magnificent view! From Interlaken you take the train to Grindelwald (30 minutes travel time). At the train station you either get on the bus or walk to the valley station of the First gondola lift. With a view of the mighty North face of the Eiger, you ride up the mountain. Once at the top, you take the well-maintained hiking trail to the Bachalpsee. Many benches offer rest. You either take the same route back or extend the hike as you wish.
Time required: 1.5 to 2 hours (hiking time)
Season: May to October
Suitable for: active people