Best Day Trips from Interlaken
Interlaken is the ultimate base camp in Switzerland. Perfectly located and well-connected by train, it’s your gateway to everything—from charming cities to amazing alpine landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike, a refreshing lake dip, or a cultural city escape, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our list of the best day trips from Interlaken you won’t want to miss!
1. Lauterbrunnen – The Valley of 72 Waterfalls
Lauterbrunnen is like something out of a fairytale—waterfalls cascading down dramatic cliffs, wooden chalets, and green meadows that feel almost too perfect to be real. Just a 20-minute train ride from Interlaken, this valley is a must-visit!
Things to do in Lauterbrunnen:
- Valley walk: An easy 1.5-hour stroll through the valley, surrounded by waterfalls.
- Trümmelbach Falls: Hidden inside the mountain, these powerful glacier waterfalls are a unique sight.
- Mürren & Gimmelwald: Take the cable car up to these charming alpine villages. Don’t miss the North Face Trail or Mountain View Trail, both great moderate hikes with stunning panoramas.
➡️ Learn more about hikes and what to do in Lauterbrunnen in our blog post.
2. Grindelwald – The Mountain Adventure Hub
Looking to get up close to the highest peaks in the Jungfrau region? Grindelwald is your spot! Just 30 minutes by train, this mountain village is a dream for hikers, thrill-seekers, and those who just want to soak in epic views.
Best hikes in Grindelwald:
- First to Bachalpsee: A short, easy hike from Primo (accessible by cable car) to the famous mirror-like alpine lake. Don’t forget to check out the First Cliff Walk for an adrenaline rush!
- Schynige Platte to First: A challenging 6-hour hike with panoramic ridge views, alpine meadows, and the First Cliff Walk as a reward.
- Eiger Trail: A classic 2-hour hike (6.5 km) at the foot of the mighty Eiger, with an option to tackle the Rotstock Via Ferrata for a vertical adventure.
- Panorama Trail: An easy but breathtaking hike from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg with 360° views of the Jungfrau region.
➡️ Check out our Grindelwald hike recommendations in our blog post.
Le migliori cose da fare a Grindelwald
Le migliori escursioni intorno a Grindelwald
3. Oeschinensee – A Hidden Alpine Gem
Arguably one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes, Oeschinensee is a true alpine paradise sitting at 1,500m above sea level. Getting there is easy: take a train to Kandersteg (1.5 hours from Interlaken), then either hike (1.5 hours) or take the cable car up.
Things to do at Oeschinensee:
- Chill by the lake: Rent a rowboat or just enjoy the scenery.
- Hike the Oeschinensee loop: A moderate 9 km hike with 500m elevation for panoramic lake views.
- Swim in the lake: If you can handle the cold, a dip in Oeschinensee is refreshing!
➡️ Read our recommendations for Oeschinensee in our blog post
Gita di un giorno al lago Oeschinensee
4. Bern – A City Full of Charm & Culture
Need a city escape? Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is just one hour by train and packed with history, culture, and cool spots to explore.
Must-see places in Bern:
- Zytglogge Clock Tower: Watch the medieval clock’s animated figures do their show.
- Bear Park: Yes, Bern has actual bears! Visit them in their spacious park by the river.
- Bern Cathedral: Climb the 344 steps to the best viewpoint in town.
- Federal Palace: Snap a photo at the Swiss Parliament building.
- Aare River swimming: If you’re here in summer, join the locals for a float down the crystal-clear Aare River.
➡️ Find out all the top things to do in Bern in our blog post
5. Lucerne – A Classic Swiss City by the Lake
Lucerne is picture-perfect: a charming old town, with stunning lake views, and mountain backdrops. Just 1 hour and 50 minutes by train, it’s worth the trip!
Best things to do in Lucerne:
- Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge): The most famous landmark in the city.
- Walk the Musegg Wall: A medieval wall with nine towers and incredible views.
- Picasso Museum: Officially the Sammlung Rosengart, museum has an entire floor dedicated to Picasso.
- Relax by Lake Lucerne: Chill by the water, have a BBQ, or rent a paddleboat.
