Visiting Interlaken
Like many travelers, you might travel to Interlaken for only a couple of days while doing a big Europe tour. And of course, you want to make the most of your stay in each place.
Three days are not much, but you can also do a lot if you are well organized and prepared, so here are our tips to enjoy your journey in Interlaken.
We have created two different itineraries so just pick the one that suits you the best...
3 days in Interlaken, what to do?
The "not to miss" itinerary
First Day: Explore Grindelwald
Get ready for a full day in the heart of the Jungfrau Region. Grindelwald is a charming alpine town and the perfect hub for scenic hikes and unforgettable activities.
For a relaxed day:
Start by wandering through the picturesque streets of Dorfstrasse, where you’ll find shops and cozy cafes. Be sure to visit the Reformierte Kirche for some stunning views right from the village. From there, head to the Glacier Canyon, a 35-minute walk from town. You can explore the canyon from above or head inside for a unique experience. Feeling adventurous? Try the 90m-high canyon swing!
Another must-do is the First Cliff Walk, a cable car ride away, offering panoramic mountain views. You can also try ziplining, mountain carts, or simply enjoy the breathtaking vistas. Check out our blog post “Visit Grindelwald - First” for more details.
For hikers:
Start at First and hike to Bachalpsee, one of the most scenic alpine lakes. If you’re up for a full-day challenge, continue to Schynige Platte for spectacular ridge views over Interlaken and lakes Brienz and Thun. Alternatively, explore trails near the Eiger, including the Eiger Trail and Eigergletscher to Männlichen. For those seeking thrills, try the Rotstock Via Ferrata. Find more in our blog post “Top Hikes Around Grindelwald.”
Second Day: Lauterbrunnen – Valley of 72 Waterfalls
No trip to Interlaken is complete without visiting Lauterbrunnen, just 20 minutes away by train. This stunning valley is home to 72 waterfalls and offers incredible hiking opportunities.
Spend your morning exploring the village and walking through the valley. Once you’ve soaked in the views, take a cable car to visit Mürren, Gimmelwald, or Grutschalp. Each town has its charm and serves as a starting point for popular hikes like the Mountain View Trail or North Face Trail.
Want more tips? Check out our blog posts “What to Do in Lauterbrunnen” or “Hiking in Lauterbrunnen” for detailed recommendations.
Third-Day: Harder Kulm – Interlaken’s Best Viewpoint
Harder Kulm is a must-see, offering some of the best panoramic views of Interlaken, Lake Brienz, and Lake Thun, all framed by the Swiss Alps.
Take the funicular to the top, or if you’re feeling energetic, hike up and enjoy the forest trail (approximately 3 hours round trip). You can also mix it up—take the funicular up and hike down. Don’t forget your guest card for discounts on transport!
At the top, relax with a drink and soak in the views. For more tips on making the most of your stay, check out our blog post “How to Make the Most of Your Interlaken Guest Card.”
The "sport & adrenaline" itinerary
On the day of your arrival: Rent a bike and go around Interlaken
Once you have checked in to your favorite hostel, Balmers hostel, check our website or go to the reception to have more information about all the crazy activities you can do around Interlaken and to book your journey for the next few days.
When all your bookings are done, grab a bike and go explore this amazing city. If you arrive early enough, The Harder Kulm is probably one of the easiest accessible points of view to admire Thunersee and Brienzersee at the same time as the Jungfrau, the Mönch, and Eiger.
However, don't be lazy and hike the mountain instead of taking the cable car. According to the signs it takes around 2h20min (but if you are fit, you can do it faster). It starts at the station of the funicular and goes through the forest.
First Day: Hang Gliding or Paragliding
You’ve seen the iconic photos of paragliders floating above Interlaken’s lakes—why not be one of them? Experience the thrill of paragliding or hang gliding, taking off from the same spot and soaring through the skies with stunning views of the mountains and lakes.
Feel the adrenaline as your guide performs tricks before landing gracefully in Höhematte Park. It’s an unforgettable adventure you won’t want to miss.
Second Day: Canyoning or Cliff Jumping
From the skies to the water, day two is all about aquatic adventure!
For adrenaline seekers, canyoning is the ultimate choice. Slide into natural pools, rappel next to waterfalls, and jump from heights of up to 12 meters. Not ready for the extreme? Don’t worry—there are options for all levels.
If canyoning isn’t your thing, head to Neuhaus, where you can rent a kayak. Paddle for about 45 minutes to reach a popular cliff-jumping spot with jumps as high as 14 meters. Learn more about the location in our blog post “Cliff Jumping.”
Third-Day: Chill Hike to Giessbach Falls
After all the action, it’s time for a more relaxed day. Take a free bus (with your Interlaken Guest Card) to Iseltwald, a charming village on Lake Brienz. From here, start the 3-hour round-trip hike to Giessbach Falls.
These 14-tiered waterfalls are a sight to behold and make for the perfect way to end your stay. Short on time? Take the boat back to Interlaken Ost.
