I have been to Interlaken a few times, all within the Fall/early Winter months. I would say that is the best time to go since ski season is just beginning, but you still get to see the changing of the leaves without it being too cold. I swear its gorgeous during the Fall.
I would best describe Interlaken as a "snowglobe town," as it looks like you literally are walking in a quaint, cute city. In addition, everyone is extremely nice and the area is very safe.
Interlaken, known as the "Adventure Capital of the World," is located between Lake Brienz & Lake Thun. Between the complete bliss, beautiful scenery, and relaxing feel, this place is absolute paradise - you will want to retire here. As you can see from the list below, there is so much to see and do (including eating fondue!).
Interlaken is only accessible through train or bus, with your best bet to fly into Zurich as it is only 1.5 hours away.. or even Milan, which is 3.5. I have never been to another Swiss city, but I highly recommend to see other places as well.
All recommendations beginning with an *asterisks are the ones that I recommend the most.
Stays:
*Balmers Hostel: I have stayed here multiple times and I really recommend. This hostel has breakfsat, a beautiful outdoor area, an attached nightclub, and is centrally located to everything you would need - all in walking distance!
Backpackers Hostel: Another centrally located hostel that many of my friends have stayed in and enjoyed!
The Hey Hotel: If you are looking for something nicer than a hostel, I have heard great things about this place.
Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa: This is one of those really nice hotels that I probably would never stay at but it is absolutely gorgeous and you should at least go and walk through it. Located downtown.
Breakfast/Lunch:
Barracuda: Located right across the street from Balmers Hostel, this place is known for it's to-go breakfast. I have had a few of their bagels and sandwiches and they are yummy and exactly what you would need to start your day!
Velo Cafe: A breakfast spot located downtown. Have heard good things about it!
Dinner:
*Husi Bierhaus: ABSOLUTELY go here. Home of the mac n cheese with apple sauce (seriously amazing even though it sounds awful). Great location, great atmosphere, and great food - and very busy! My absolute favorites are listed below.
Älpler Makkaroni: Baked macaroni, bacon and potatoes in a creamy sauce with cheese and applesauce
Älska Cider: Strawberry & Lime, Lemon & Ginger, Passion Fruit & Apple
Noodle Bar: A quick downtown eatery that sells rice and noodles. Located next to Hooters if you wanted to check that out as well.
X-Port Pizzeria: A family owned pizza place located next to Balmers Hostel.
Gasthof Hirschen: Very cute lodge to have dinner. We really just went for the fondue and it was a very Swiss experience! I recommend making reservations anywhere that you have fondue.
Top o'Met: I have never eaten here but I have visited as the view from this rooftop restaurant is BEAUTIFUL (I have only seen it during the day). They technically do not allow people to just come up for the view, but if you just act like you're supposed to be there then you will have about 5 minutes to enjoy.
Dessert:
*Funky Chocolate Club: A delicious chocolate shop that sells really yummy treats (even hot chocolate that I highly recommend!). They also have chocolate making classes that are a really fun way to learn about Swiss chocolate!
Grocery Store Food: I also really recommend shopping in souvonier stores and grocery stores for Swiss Chocolate. You will find so many treasures, including the "Swiss Dream Dark Fondant" chocolate bar - one of my all time favorites (shown in the slide show of photos at the end of this post).
Nightlife:
Balmers Bar & Club: The club located below the Balmers Hostel. Its very convenient, especially if you are staying in the hostel or nearby. I personally think its a fun time!
Brasserie 17: A local "dive-y" bar that has a good atmosphere.
Hikes:
Harderkulm: Also known as the "Top of Interlaken," the Harderkulm is a viewpoint 4.3k feet high and overlooks the towns of Interlaken and Unterseen. The funicular station is near the railway station, and the trip up to the viewing platform takes only about 10 minutes.
Lake Brienz: The most stunningly blue lake you will ever see in your life. Interlaken sits right between Brienz and Lake Thun. I have linked an article that tells you how where to walk to see these stunning views but you can also just message me for more.
Walk: As weird as it sounds, I found a lot of beautiful plants, wildlife and homes by just walking around. It is a very safe place and you can find a lot of hidden treasure if you just explore.
Adventure:
As stated above, Interlaken is known as the "Adventure Capital of the World." Below are a list of thrill-seeking adventures that you can sign up for, but keep in mind that it does depend on the season you visit. Many of these activities are not cheap, however they are "once in a lifetime" events that you should genuinely consider. I paid almost $600 to skydive in Interlaken, and to this day it is still one of the best things I have ever spent my money on. Money returns, your time does not. You can sign up for many of these activities at Outdoor Interlaken, which is not far from Balmers Hostel.
Below is a list of a few different ideas, ranging from somewhat to very thrilling.
There is also (obviously) a big Ski/Snowboard crowd in the winter. These are the two mountains that I know that people visit and love.
Schilthorn: A summit in the Bern region, made famous in a James Bond movie. You can get stunning views of Switzerland as this is literally ontop of a mountain. Theres a skyline, restaurant, and more thrilling adventure you wouldn't want to miss.
Nearby Cities/Towns:
Zurich: 1.5 hours from Interlaken, and the closest major city.
Lauterbrunnen: Only about 20 minutes south of Interlaken and is SO cute. Has the most stunning views with a famous Staubbach Falls waterfall. Very picturesque.
Grindelwald: About 30 minutes South West of Interlaken.
Lucerne: About 60 minutes North West of Interlaken.
Bern: About 45 minutes North East of Interlaken.
Berg: About 2.5 hours North West of Interlaken.
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