7-Day Interlaken Itinerary: Slow Travel in the Heart of the Swiss Alps

Let’s cut to the chase: Interlaken isn’t a place to rush. Too many travelers zip through here on their way to Italy or France, missing the real magic—waking up to snow-capped peaks, breathing in crisp alpine air, and taking your time to soak in the lakes and villages that make this Swiss town one of the most beloved destinations in Europe. This 7-day itinerary is for anyone who wants to live like a local, not just check off landmarks. No long bus rides across borders, no early-morning panics to catch a train to another country. Just 7 days of slow, intentional travel in the shadow of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau—the three iconic peaks that define Interlaken’s skyline.

I’ve spent over a decade working in Interlaken’s tourism industry, and I’m here to share the stuff you won’t find in generic guidebooks: the best spots to eat a crispy pork knuckle after a long day of hiking, how to avoid the crowds at “Social media influencer” (wait, no—popular) spots like Iseltwald, and which train tickets will actually save you money (spoiler: it’s not always the Swiss Travel Pass). This itinerary is flexible, practical, and designed for real people—no fancy gear required, just a willingness to slow down and enjoy the view.

Before You Go: Key Tips for First-Time Visitors to Interlaken

First things first—let’s get the boring (but crucial) stuff out of the way. Interlaken is split into two main train stations: Interlaken Ost (East) and Interlaken West (West). Most of your day trips will start from Interlaken Ost, so picking a hotel nearby (or in the center) will save you a lot of walking with luggage. Also, 2026 brings a big change for non-EU travelers: the new EES (Entry/Exit System) is now mandatory. That means you’ll need to scan your passport and have your fingerprints taken when you leave Switzerland, so add an extra 2-3 hours to your airport departure time—no exceptions.

Cash is still king in small villages and mountain huts, so exchange 200-300 CHF (Swiss Francs) before you arrive. Credit cards work everywhere in town, but you don’t want to be stuck at a cable car station with no cash and a broken card reader. And don’t forget a power adapter—Switzerland uses Type J plugs, which are different from the Type C plugs you’ll find in most of Europe. Most hotels have adapters, but bringing your own will save you the hassle of asking at the front desk.

One last thing: weather is everything. The Swiss Alps are unpredictable—you can have sunshine at 9 AM and snow by 2 PM. Download the MeteoSwiss app (it’s free and way more accurate than Google Weather) and check it every morning. If the forecast for Jungfrau is cloudy, swap days—there’s no point in paying for a mountain top view you can’t see.

Day 1: Arrival in Interlaken – Settle In and Get Your First Taste of Alpine Magic

Morning/Afternoon: Arrival and Check-In

Most travelers arrive in Interlaken via train from Zurich Airport (ZRH) or Geneva Airport (GVA). The train ride from Zurich takes about 2 hours, and from Geneva, it’s around 3 hours—both are scenic, so sit by the window and enjoy the ride. When you arrive at Interlaken Ost, grab your luggage and head to your hotel. I recommend staying either near Interlaken West or in the town center (Interlaken Zentrum)—these areas are walkable, have plenty of restaurants, and are close to both train stations.

For mid-range travelers, Hotel Weisses Kreuz is a solid pick. It’s right next to Interlaken West station, so you can drag your luggage there in 5 minutes. The rooms are simple but clean, and the staff speaks English (most people in Interlaken do, but it’s always nice to avoid language barriers). If you want a bit more comfort, Hotel Krebs is in the center—some rooms have air conditioning, which is a luxury in Switzerland (most hotels don’t have it, and summer can get surprisingly warm).

Pro tip: If you’re arriving early, drop your luggage at the hotel (most will hold it before check-in time) and head to a café for a coffee. Café Spitz is a local favorite—they serve strong Swiss coffee and fresh croissants, and the outdoor seating overlooks the main street.

Afternoon: Höhematte Park – The Heart of Interlaken

Once you’ve checked in and freshened up, it’s time to get your first look at the mountains. Höhematte is a huge green park in the middle of town—think of it as Interlaken’s backyard. It’s free to visit, and on a clear day, you’ll have unobstructed views of the Jungfrau (the “Maiden” peak) in the distance. This is also where paragliders land, so grab a bench and watch as dozens of colorful canopies float down from the mountains—it’s one of the most iconic sights in Interlaken, and it never gets old.

Walk around the park for a bit—there are flower beds, fountains, and even a small playground if you’re traveling with kids. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can book a paraglide here (most companies have booths in the park), but save that for later in the trip—you’ll want to be well-rested for the hike up to the launch point.

Dinner: Husi Bierhaus – Comfort Food to Beat Jet Lag

After a long day of traveling, you don’t want anything fancy—you want hearty, comforting food. Husi Bierhaus is right near Höhematte, and it’s a local institution. Order the Schweinshaxe (roast pork knuckle)—it’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a side of sauerkraut and potatoes. Wash it down with a glass of local Swiss beer (Try the Hürlimann Lager—it’s light and refreshing). The atmosphere is casual—think wooden tables, friendly staff, and other travelers mixing with locals. It’s the perfect place to unwind and recover from jet lag.

Evening: Stroll Along Höheweg

After dinner, take a walk along Höheweg—the main street in Interlaken. It’s lined with watch shops (Bucherer and Kirchhofer are the biggest ones), chocolate stores, and souvenir shops. You don’t need to buy anything yet (save that for Day 6), but it’s fun to window-shop and soak in the town’s vibe. The street is lit up at night, and the mountains loom in the background—it’s a great way to end your first day in Interlaken. Head to bed early—you’ll need to be up by 7 AM for tomorrow’s trip to Jungfrau.

Day 2: Jungfraujoch – Conquer the “Top of Europe”

Morning: Early Start to Beat the Crowds

Listen to me: wake up early. If you’re not at Interlaken Ost by 8 AM, you’ll be stuck in long lines for the train, and the mountain top will be packed with tourists. The route to Jungfraujoch is fixed, but it’s worth memorizing to avoid confusion:

1. Take the train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald Terminal (about 20 minutes).

2. Transfer to the train to Kleine Scheidegg (another 20 minutes)—this is where the two train lines from Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen meet.

3. Take the Jungfrau Railway (the highest railway in Europe) to Jungfraujoch (about 35 minutes). The train goes through a tunnel, and it stops for 5 minutes at two viewpoints: Eigerwand (Eiger Wall) and Eismeer (Ice Sea). Don’t miss these—they’re the only chances to see the Eiger’s north face from inside the tunnel.

Pro tip: If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll get a 25% discount on the Jungfraujoch ticket. If you have a Half Fare Card, you’ll get 50% off—do the math before you buy to see which is cheaper. For a 7-day trip, the Half Fare Card is often a better deal if you’re only visiting Jungfrau and a few other mountains.

Mid-Morning: Exploring Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe)

Once you reach the top (3,454 meters above sea level), take a minute to adjust to the altitude—you might feel a bit lightheaded, and that’s normal. Start with the Sphinx Observatory—the highest indoor/outdoor observation deck in Europe. The indoor part is warm, and the outdoor deck offers 360-degree views of the Aletsch Glacier (the largest glacier in the Alps) and the surrounding peaks. It’s breathtaking, but bundle up—it’s cold up here, even in summer (temperatures are usually around 0°C).

Next, head to the Alpine Sensation—a circular corridor that tells the story of how the Jungfrau Railway was built. It’s not the most exciting part, but it’s interesting to learn about the workers who dug the tunnel over 100 years ago. Then, visit the Ice Palace—an underground tunnel carved into the glacier, with ice sculptures of animals, people, and even a throne. Wear sturdy shoes—the floor is slippery, and it’s even colder than the observatory (around -5°C).

The final stop is the Plateau—an outdoor platform with a Swiss flag. This is the classic photo spot—stand next to the flag, and you’ll have the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger in the background. Take as many photos as you want, but don’t stay too long—the wind can be strong, and you’ll want to warm up soon.

Lunch: Piz Gloria or Packed Snacks

There are a few restaurants at the top, but the most famous is Piz Gloria—a 360-degree rotating restaurant. The food is okay (nothing amazing), but the view is unbeatable. You’ll slowly spin as you eat, so you’ll get to see all the peaks without moving. If you’re on a budget, pack a sandwich, fruit, and a bottle of water (you can fill up your water bottle at the drinking fountains—Swiss tap water is safe to drink and tastes great). There are plenty of seating areas where you can eat your snacks and enjoy the view.

Afternoon: Optional Hike or Downhill

I recommend heading down around 2-3 PM—you’ll avoid the crowds, and you’ll have time to do something extra if the weather is good. If you’re feeling energetic, get off the train at Kleine Scheidegg and hike to Männlichen (the “King’s Path”). It’s a 1.5-hour flat hike, and the views of the Eiger’s north face are incredible—you’ll feel like you’re standing right in front of the mountain. The trail is well-marked, so you don’t need a guide, but wear comfortable shoes.

If hiking isn’t your thing, take the train back to Grindelwald or Interlaken. You’ll be tired, but it’s a good tired—you just conquered the Top of Europe, after all.

Dinner: Des Alpes – Authentic Swiss Cheese Fondue

Back in Interlaken, you’ll want something warm and comforting. Des Alpes is a small, family-run restaurant near the town center, and their cheese fondue is the real deal. The owner will even teach you how to eat it properly—dip small pieces of bread into the fondue, but don’t leave it in too long (it will get stringy). Pro tip: Skip the bread and dip potatoes instead—it’s a local trick that makes the fondue less heavy. Wash it down with a glass of white wine (Swiss Chasselas is perfect) to cut through the cheese.

Day 3: Lake Cruise – Choose Between Lake Thun or Lake Brienz

Morning: Pick Your Lake (Here’s How to Decide)

Today is all about relaxation—no early mornings, no hiking, just a slow cruise on one of Interlaken’s two famous lakes. Both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are beautiful, but they have different vibes. Here’s the lowdown to help you choose:

Lake Brienz: The “green gem” of Interlaken. The water is a milky turquoise color (thanks to glacial sediment), and the surrounding mountains are covered in forests. It’s quieter than Lake Thun, and the villages along the shore are more charming. If you love nature and want to avoid crowds, this is your pick.

Lake Thun: The “blue jewel” of Interlaken. The water is a deep, rich blue, and the shoreline is dotted with castles and historic towns. It’s busier than Lake Brienz, but the towns are more lively, with plenty of restaurants and shops. If you’re interested in history and want to explore a town, go for Lake Thun.

Pro tip: If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, the boat rides are free. If not, a one-way ticket costs around 20 CHF—worth every penny for the views.

Mid-Morning: Cruise to the End of the Lake

If you choose Lake Brienz: Take the boat from Interlaken Ost (the dock is right next to the train station) to Brienz town (about 1 hour). Brienz is known as the “woodcarving capital of Switzerland”—you’ll see woodcarving shops everywhere, selling everything from small figurines to large furniture. Walk around the town square, visit the woodcarving museum (it’s small but interesting), and stop at a café for a slice of apple pie (a local specialty).

If you choose Lake Thun: Take the boat from Interlaken West (the dock is a 5-minute walk from the station) to Thun town (about 1.5 hours). Thun has a beautiful old town, with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a medieval castle (Thun Castle). Climb up to the castle for views of the lake and town, and wander through the market square (if it’s a Saturday, there’s a farmers’ market with fresh produce and local cheese).

Lunch: Fresh Lake Fish or Local Swiss Fare

If you’re on Lake Brienz: Eat at Seehotel Brienz, a lakeside restaurant right near the dock. Order the Forelle (trout)—it’s caught fresh from the lake, pan-fried, and served with lemon and potatoes. The outdoor seating overlooks the lake, so you can enjoy your meal with a view.

If you’re on Lake Thun: Head to Restaurant Schlüssel in Thun’s old town. It’s a traditional Swiss restaurant, serving dishes like Rösti (Swiss potato pancake) with cheese and onions, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal in a creamy mushroom sauce). The portions are big, and the prices are reasonable.

Afternoon: Boat Ride Back and a Stop at Iseltwald (If You Want)

On your way back to Interlaken, the boat will pass Iseltwald—a small village with a iconic wooden pier that became famous after appearing in the Korean drama “Crash Landing on You.” Here’s the truth (from a local): the pier is cute, but the village is tiny, and it’s always packed with tourists. If you’re a fan of the drama, stop for 10 minutes to take a photo, but don’t stay long—you’ll get better views from the boat. The best photo spot is from the water, so keep your camera ready as you pass by.

Dinner: Hooters – Casual Eats with a View

I know, Hooters isn’t Swiss food—but hear me out. The Interlaken location is right across from Höhematte, so you’ll have views of the mountains while you eat. The wings are crispy, the beer is cold, and the atmosphere is fun and casual—perfect for a relaxed evening. It’s a great spot for groups or anyone who doesn’t feel like eating another heavy Swiss meal. If you’re not into Hooters, try Restaurant Bahnhof—they serve simple pub food and have a big outdoor patio.

Day 4: Grindelwald and First – Hiking, Adventure, and Mountain Views

Morning: Train to Grindelwald – The “Glacier Village”

Take the 9 AM train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald (20 minutes). Grindelwald is a charming village nestled at the foot of the Eiger—you’ll see the mountain’s north face as soon as you step off the train. It’s called the “Glacier Village” because of the nearby Eiger Glacier, and it’s a popular base for hikers and adventure seekers.

From the train station, walk to the First cable car station (about 10 minutes). The cable car takes you up to First (2,168 meters above sea level) in 25 minutes, and the views are incredible—you’ll pass forests, meadows, and small mountain huts along the way. If you’re afraid of heights, sit on the inside of the cable car, but try to peek out—you won’t regret it.

Mid-Morning: First Cliff Walk and Bachalpsee Hike

Once you reach the top, start with the First Cliff Walk—the most famous attraction here. It’s a narrow steel walkway built along the side of the cliff, with a glass floor at the end (don’t worry, it’s safe!). It’s a bit scary at first, but the views of the mountains and valleys are worth it. Take your time, and stop to take photos—this is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Interlaken.

Next, do the Bachalpsee hike—it’s the highlight of the day. The trail starts at the cable car station and takes about 1 hour to reach the lake (it’s an easy hike, with a slight uphill climb). Bachalpsee is a small alpine lake, and on a clear day, it reflects the surrounding peaks (Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau). It’s quiet, peaceful, and feels like a hidden gem—you’ll probably only see a few other hikers here. Bring a blanket and sit by the lake for a while—you’ll forget all about the world below.

Lunch: First Mountain Restaurant

Head back to the cable car station and eat at the First Mountain Restaurant. The food is a bit pricey (this is a mountain top, after all), but the view is unbeatable. Order the Rösti with smoked salmon—it’s crispy, salty, and perfect after a hike. Wash it down with a hot chocolate (Swiss hot chocolate is thick and rich, like liquid chocolate) to warm up.

Afternoon: Adventure Activities (Optional)

If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the downhill activities. First Flyer is a zip line that takes you from First to Schreckfeld (about 10 minutes). It’s fast, thrilling, and offers amazing views—book in advance, as it sells out quickly. If zip lining is too scary, try the Mountain Cart or Trottibike—you ride them down the mountain from First to Grindelwald, and it’s a fun, easy way to get back down (no pedaling required).

If you’re not into adventure, take the cable car back down to Grindelwald and wander around the village. Visit the Eiger Glacier Museum to learn about the history of mountaineering in the area, or stop at a café for a coffee and a slice of cake.

Dinner: Goldener Anker – Casual Pub Food for Hikers

Back in Interlaken, head to Goldener Anker—a small pub-style restaurant near the town center. It’s popular with hikers, so the atmosphere is laid-back and friendly. Order the Burger (it’s big and juicy, with Swiss cheese and caramelized onions) or the Sausage with Rösti. They have a pool table and a wide selection of local beers, so it’s a great place to relax after a day of hiking. If you’re traveling with friends, challenge each other to a game of pool—you’ll feel like a local.

Day 5: Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Schilthorn – Waterfalls and 007 Magic

Morning: Train to Lauterbrunnen – The “Waterfall Village”

Take the 9 AM train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen (20 minutes). Lauterbrunnen is a small village in a narrow valley, and it’s home to 72 waterfalls—hence the nickname “Waterfall Village.” The most famous is Staubbachfall, a 300-meter waterfall that cascades down the cliffside. As soon as you get off the train, you’ll see it—walk towards the center of the village, and you’ll be able to stand right below it (wear a jacket, you’ll get wet from the mist).

Wander around the village for a bit—there are small shops, cafes, and traditional Swiss chalets. Stop at the Lauterbrunnen Valley Museum to learn about the history of the village and the waterfalls. It’s small, but it’s interesting to see how the villagers have lived here for centuries.

Mid-Morning: Cable Car to Mürren – The Car-Free Village

From Lauterbrunnen, take the cable car to Grütschalp (10 minutes), then transfer to a small train to Mürren (15 minutes). Mürren is a car-free village built on a cliff, with views of the three peaks (Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau). It’s quiet, peaceful, and feels like a step back in time—no cars, just cobblestone streets and wooden chalets.

Walk around the village—there are a few shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, and plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy the view. If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a small playground with a slide that overlooks the mountains. Mürren is also a popular spot for paragliding—you’ll see paragliders taking off from the nearby mountain and landing in the village square.

Lunch: Hotel Alpenblick – Lunch with a View

Hotel Alpenblick is a small hotel in Mürren, and their restaurant has the best view in the village. Sit on the outdoor terrace, and you’ll have unobstructed views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Order the Swiss Cheese Rösti or the Vegetable Quiche—both are delicious, and the portions are big. The service is friendly, and the prices are reasonable (for a mountain village).

Afternoon: Cable Car to Schilthorn – The 007 Mountain

From Mürren, take the cable car to Schilthorn (30 minutes). Schilthorn is a mountain peak (2,970 meters above sea level), and it’s famous for being the filming location of the 007 movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” The top has a 360-degree rotating restaurant (also called Piz Gloria, like the one on Jungfrau) and a free 007 exhibition.

The exhibition has props from the movie, including James Bond’s ski suit and a replica of the villain’s lair. You can take photos with a life-size James Bond cutout, and there’s even a “007 Challenge” where you can test your spy skills. The view from the top is even better than Jungfrau—you can see the three peaks lined up in a row, and on a clear day, you can see as far as France and Germany.

Pro tip: Check the last cable car time before you go—they stop running around 5 PM, and you don’t want to get stuck on the mountain.

Dinner: Swiss Rösti – A Classic Comfort Food

Back in Interlaken, it’s time to try another Swiss classic: Rösti. Head to Restaurant Rösti Haus near the town center—they serve Rösti in every way you can imagine: with cheese, with bacon, with eggs, with vegetables. Order the “Rösti Special”—it’s a big portion of crispy potato pancake topped with cheese, onions, and a fried egg. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect after a day of traveling around the mountains. Wash it down with a glass of local beer, and you’ll be ready for bed.

Day 6: Harder Kulm and Interlaken Shopping – Views and Souvenirs

Morning: Harder Kulm – The Best View of Interlaken

Today is a slow day—no long train rides, no hiking. Start with a trip to Harder Kulm, the “viewpoint of Interlaken.” The cable car is right next to Interlaken Ost, and it takes just 10 minutes to reach the top (1,322 meters above sea level). The view from Harder Kulm is unbeatable—you’ll see Interlaken in the middle, with Lake Thun and Lake Brienz on either side, like two blue ribbons. It’s the perfect spot to take a panoramic photo of the town and the mountains.

Walk around the top—there’s a restaurant (Harder Kulm Restaurant) with outdoor seating, and a viewpoint called “The Top of Interlaken.” If you’re feeling adventurous, take the “Hardergrat Trail”—a short hike that offers even better views, but it’s a bit steep, so wear sturdy shoes. If not, just sit on a bench and enjoy the view—you’ll have plenty of time to relax today.

Lunch: Restaurant Taverne – A Fancier Lunch

Head back down to Interlaken and have lunch at Restaurant Taverne. It’s located in a historic hotel in the town center, and the service is professional (but not stuffy). The menu has a mix of Swiss and international dishes—try the Filet of Beef with Red Wine Sauce or the Seafood Pasta. The portions are smaller than the casual restaurants you’ve been to, but the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is perfect for a slightly fancier lunch. It’s a nice way to treat yourself halfway through the trip.

Afternoon: Shopping for Souvenirs

Now it’s time to buy souvenirs for your friends and family (and yourself!). Here’s where to go and what to buy:

Watches: Höheweg is lined with watch shops, but the best ones are Bucherer and Kirchhofer. They have a wide selection of Swiss watches (Rolex, Omega, TAG Heuer, and more), and the staff can help you find the perfect one. Pro tip: Keep your receipt and ask for a tax refund form—you can get 8-10% of the price back when you leave Switzerland (just get it stamped at the airport).

Swiss Army Knife and Chocolate: Don’t buy these at the tourist shops on Höheweg—they’re overpriced. Head to a Coop or Migros supermarket (there’s one near Interlaken West and one near the center). They have a wide selection of Swiss Army Knives (the Victorinox brand is the best) and chocolate (Lindt, Toblerone, and local brands). The prices are much cheaper, and the quality is the same.

Läderach Chocolate: If you want something special, go to Läderach (there’s a shop on Höheweg). They sell fresh, hand-cut chocolate—try the milk chocolate with hazelnuts or the dark chocolate with sea salt. It’s more expensive than the supermarket chocolate, but it’s worth it— the texture is smooth, and the flavor is intense.

Pro tip: Don’t buy too much chocolate— it melts easily, so keep it in a cool place. If you’re traveling home with it, pack it in your carry-on luggage (not your checked bag) to avoid it melting.

Dinner: Schuh – A Perfect Farewell Meal

Tonight is your last night in Interlaken, so make it count. Schuh is a restaurant and pastry shop near the town center, and it’s a local favorite. The restaurant serves Swiss and international dishes—try the Roast Chicken or the Vegetable Tart. After dinner, head to the pastry shop next door and buy some macarons or a slice of cake—they’re delicious, and they make great souvenirs (if they last that long). The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and it’s the perfect place to say goodbye to Interlaken.

Day 7: Departure – Last-Minute Tips and Goodbyes

Morning: Final Preparations

Today is your last day, so take it easy. Check out of your hotel (most hotels have a check-out time of 11 AM), and leave your luggage at the front desk if your train or flight is later in the day. If you have time, head to the Coop supermarket near Interlaken West and buy a sandwich, fruit, and a bottle of water for the journey—Swiss train food is expensive, so this will save you money.

If you have a few extra hours, take one last walk along Höhematte—say goodbye to the mountains and the paragliders. You’ll probably be sad to leave, but that’s a good sign—you’ve had a great trip.

Transport to the Airport

Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West both have direct trains to Zurich and Geneva airports. Here’s the breakdown:

Zurich Airport: Trains leave every 30 minutes, and the journey takes about 2 hours. Leave Interlaken at least 2.5 hours before your flight.

Geneva Airport: Trains leave every hour, and the journey takes about 3 hours. Leave Interlaken at least 3.5 hours before your flight.

Remember the EES system: Non-EU travelers need to arrive at the airport early to scan their passport and have their fingerprints taken. Add an extra 2-3 hours to your departure time—better safe than sorry.

Final Thoughts (No, Really, This Isn’t a Summary)

Interlaken isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. This 7-day itinerary isn’t about checking off every landmark; it’s about slowing down, living like a local, and falling in love with the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re hiking to Bachalpsee, cruising on Lake Brienz, or eating cheese fondue in a small restaurant, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime.

And if you ever come back (which I hope you do), remember: the best views aren’t always from the top of a mountain. Sometimes they’re from a bench in Höhematte, watching the paragliders land, with a cold beer in your hand and the mountains in the distance. That’s the real magic of Interlaken.

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From the science of the Northern Lights to the culture of saunas, I specialize in demystifying Scandinavia. Let me help you plTan a Nordic adventure that’s as deep as it is extraordinary.

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