Aerial Adventure: 2 Days in Interlaken, Switzerland
TRAVEL DATES: MAY 28-30, 2023 | EST. READING TIME: 20 MIN
IN THIS GUIDE ✺
Dream of soaring over turquoise lakes amongst snow-capped mountain peaks?
Soar through the sky, glide through turquoise water, or embark on one of the endless outdoor activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, and canyoning offered in the adventure capital of Switzerland! Situated as the gateway to the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is a prime destination for explorers seeking breathtaking views and easy access to the surrounding natural beauty.
As a popular tourism base for exploring the region, be sure you don’t overlook the lesser-known towns flanking the lakes of Interlaken — Brienz and Thun each offer a uniquely tranquil escape amidst the adventure sports hub of Interlaken. Regardless of how you spend your time, a visit to indescribable Interlaken is sure to be one you’ll remember for a lifetime!
2 Days in Interlaken Itinerary
In a hurry? Here’s a time-stamped overview of the detailed Interlaken, Switzerland travel guide you’ll find below:
Day 1
9:02 - 10:58 AM: 🚉 Travel by train from Zurich to Interlaken West (1 hr 56 min)
10:58 - 11:40 AM: 🏨 Check-in to Hotel de La Paix and get settled by unpacking your belongings (42 min)
11:40 AM - 12:25 PM: 🌳 Watch the constant stream of paragliders land in Höhematte Park (45 min)
12:25 - 1:25 PM: 🇨🇭 Shop around for Swiss souvenirs on the main commercial street, Höheweg (1 hr)
1:25 - 2:00 PM: 🥐 Enjoy a quick, casual lunch digging into pistachio pastries at Bistro Pistache (35 min)
2:00 - 3:30 PM: ⛴️ Ride the steam-powered ferry around glistening Lake Brienz (1 hr 30 min)
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM: 💧 Explore the lakeside and quaint wooden cottages of Brienz (1 hr 30 min)
5:00 - 5:25 PM: 🚋 Ride the train back to Interlaken West (25 min)
5:25 - 6:05 PM: 🍦 Indulge on ice cream for dinner with a cone from Vanini Swiss Chocolate (45 min)
Day 2
9:30 - 10:05 AM: 🛤️ Travel to the other side of the lake to explore the charming town of Thun (35 min)
10:05 - 10:35 AM: 🌊 Watch surfers shred the bridge wave under Mühleschleuse (30 min)
10:35 - 11:35 AM: 🏰 Climb into one of the four towers of Thun Castle to observe the area from above (1 hr)
11:35 AM - 12:35 PM: 💳 Shop the tiered street Obere Hauptgasse after crossing through Kirchtreppe (1 hr)
12:35 - 1:35 PM: 🍝 Munch on bruschetta at Del Padre for lunch (1 hr)
1:35 - 3:05 PM: 🌼 Explore the public canals and gardens around town like Inseli Kehr (1 hr 30 min)
3:05 - 3:40 PM: 💺 Travel back to Interlaken West to change clothes before your next excursion (35 min)
5:00 - 6:15 PM: 🪂 Soar through the clouds in a classic excursion with Paragliding Interlaken (1 hr 15 min)
6:15 - 7:30 PM: 🍔 End the day with a hearty burger from Asllanis Corner (1 hr 15 min)
How to Get Around Switzerland?
Before we dive into the specifics of Interlaken, it’s important to make sure you’re properly equipped to travel around Switzerland. Specific mode of transport aside, the SBB Mobile app is Switzerland’s most popular public transit app and will be your key to success in navigating the country. Find personalized time tables and suggested routes between locations, purchase your tickets, and get relevant information about your journey when on the move — all within a simple mobile interface.
Depending on the length of your trip and intended amount of movement, the Swiss Travel Pass could be a huge cost saver — and save you the headache of purchasing tickets every time you’re on the go. The purchase of this singular ticket gives you unlimited travel by train, bus and boat, as well as free admission to more than 500 museums and up to a 50% discount on many popular mountain excursions.
-
The travel pass is offered in two different variations: the Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex, with the former, cheaper option remaining active through consecutive days of travel while the latter, more expensive option is valid on freely selectable days within one month. You’ll need to figure out your trip itinerary in advance to determine which of these options is the most cost-effective for you. As a general rule of thumb, if you’re in Switzerland for less than 2 weeks, the Swiss Travel Pass will likely suffice.
Once you’ve determined which pass type makes the most sense for you, purchase the pass that aligns with the duration of your time in Switzerland: 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 day tickets are offered across all pass types. As the number of days included in the pass increases, the actual cost per day decreases, so it’s worth doing some quick math to find your cheapest option. For example, it’s actually cheaper to buy an 8-day pass for a 7-day trip, instead of buying one 3-day pass and one 4-day pass.
Your final decision to make is whether you’d like to purchase a first or second class ticket. In my experience, there was hardly any difference between the two class cars (and I was able to sneak into some first class seats with my second class tickets), so I’d recommend going with the cheaper, second class pass. However, if you’re traveling during peak season and anticipate hordes of other tourists around, the first class pass may be worthwhile.
Pro Tip:
If you’re under 25, you can buy the Swiss Travel Pass Youth or Swiss Travel Pass Flex Youth for even cheaper rates, with a 30% discount on the regular pass prices. Both ticket types offer the same validity as their full price counterparts.
How to Get from Zurich to Interlaken?
As a Trainline affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
FROM: Zurich Airport (ZRH) (8302 Kloten, Switzerland)
TO: Interlaken (3800 Interlaken, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Zurich Flughafen → Bern via IC train 1 towards Genève-Aéroport → Interlaken West via IC train 61 towards Interlaken Ost with Trainline tickets (2 hr 14 min, 1 transfer in Bern, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or 41 CHF)
Assuming you’re already in Zurich—the best city to fly into when traveling to Interlaken—the journey is a breezy 2 hours through Swiss countryside. You’ll depart from the Zurich Flughafen station, which is conveniently located inside the airport, riding for 1 hour and 20 minutes to Bern. You’ll hop off your first train with 6 minutes to transfer, boarding the train headed towards Interlaken West which entails a 48 minute ride.
If you’re heading to Interlaken, you might as well add a few days to your Switzerland itinerary and visit Lauterbrunnen as well. Located a quick 22 minute train ride away from Interlaken, this little Swiss town may not be on your radar, but believe me when I say it belongs at the top of your travel bucket list! Breathtaking alpine views, charming villages, and cascading waterfalls are the norm here, where you’ll step into a mountainous landscape unlike anything you’ve seen before. Situated next to a convenient cable car system, you’ll be able to hit Gimmelwald, Mürren, Birg, and the Schilthorn peak while you’re there—scaling 9,744 ft in the process. If that sounds like the ideal adventure for you, check out my two-day guide covering everything you need to know about Lauterbrunnen!
Where to Stay in Interlaken?
LODGING: Hotel de La Paix ($366.37 for two nights, split among two people)
With a name that means “hotel of peace,” what you see is what you get at Hotel de La Paix. Situated a breezy 5 minute walk from the Interlaken West station in a quiet, residential part of town, staying in this 3-star family-run Interlaken hotel will ensure you get a good night’s sleep after watching the gliders float by your window. When you’re ready to head back into the action, the shopping center of Interlaken is located just a few streets away, with a 10 minute jaunt bringing you to Höheweg.
The true delights are hidden inside Hotel de La Paix, with antique clocks and other vintage treasures lining the lounges and staircases to cultivate a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. With an emphasis on personal attention, the front desk staff will gladly help you plan your next excursion and provide dining recommendations around the area!
We stayed in a Standard Double Room with two single beds, and while the furnishings were quite modest, the room offered everything we needed after spending the majority of our days out and about. Amenities include an ensuite bathroom, satellite TV, hairdryer, linens and towels, and coin-operated washer and dryers down the hall if you need to do some laundry.
Hotel de La Paix certainly isn’t a luxury option—but it’s one of the best places to stay in Interlaken for travelers on a budget who are looking for the peace and quiet adventure hostels won’t be able to provide.
What to Do During 2 Days in Interlaken?
Day 1
Begin your first day of this Interlaken itinerary 2 days in
the central shopping area to explore town—and pick up some Swiss souvenirs—before venturing on the two lakes which give the area its name. Interlaken, meaning “between lakes,” is situated in the middle of Thunersee and Brienzersee, which also happen to be filled with the most sparkling turquoise water you’ve ever seen!
As the unofficial adventure capital of Switzerland, it won’t be long before hang gliders and paragliders catch your eye, since these flying tourists fill the sky pretty much the whole day! This permanent fixture on the horizon adds to the whimsy of Interlaken, while the charming cottages around every corner cement this destination as a living fairytale.
Höhematte Park
Once you’ve settled into your room, begin your exploration of Interlaken with a walk around Höhematte Park. This 14 hectare plot of land offers stunning, unobstructed views of the Swiss Alps, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. With its expansive green field serving as a foreground to these breathtaking panoramas, Höhematte Park is the perfect spot for photography, picnics, and simply soaking in the natural beauty of the region.
Better yet, watch as paragliders who take off from the surrounding mountains use this soft grass as a landing spot. If you didn’t eat any breakfast on the train ride over from Zürich, consider buying snacks from one of the many vendors around the perimeter of the park while observing the gliders gracefully descend.
Höhematte Park is adjacent to Höheweg, the main commercial street of Interlaken, where you’ll find stereotypical souvenir stores, luxury watch designers, enticing pastry shops with Swiss chocolate, and even a Hooters (yes, seriously). I’m partial to collecting Christmas ornaments from destinations I visit as a creative way to remember my adventures, but regardless of which souvenirs suit your fancy, this is an ideal time to shop around since you’re already in the area. I found Edelweiss Shop to offer pretty much all the typical tourist fixings you could ask for, so if you’re not sure what exactly you want to bring home, this is a good place to start looking!
Lunch — Bistro Pistache
Once you’ve finished up with some retail therapy, walk 15 minutes down Höheweg to Bistro Pistache, which is a little tricky to find since it’s located behind Interlaken Ost station. Keep an eye out for any crossing trains as you stay to the left of the tracks; this route should bring you directly to the restaurant, which also just so happens to sit right next to the Interlaken Ost ferry terminal.
Constructed from a hodgepodge of recycled materials, this vibrant counter service cafe reflects its namesake with pops of pistachio green decorating the premises. Whether you’d like to tan under the sun or relax under the cool shade of an awning, Bistro Pistache provides a welcoming outdoor lounge space to hang about in while waiting for the Brienzersee ferry. I was particularly enthralled with the multi-functional patio chair I sat in, which among other features came with a foot rest, cup holder, storage space, food tray, bolster pillows, and provided overhead shade — I snapped a photo to remember this type of seating when shopping for my future home!
Light food, drinks, and quality ice cream is served here at the back of Interlaken Ost. Naturally, a special emphasis is placed on the pistachio-flavored goodies; I enjoyed snacking on a pistache schiffli, but heard great things about the pistachio gelato as well! On top of all the special touches which curate the friendly atmosphere of this establishment, it’s also quite popular with families since it has a large playground area with children's games and a low tightrope. So kick back, relax, and grab small bites at Bistro Pistache before the 2:07 PM ferry arrives.
Lake Brienz
FROM: Interlaken (3800 Interlaken, Switzerland)
TO: Brienz (3855 Brienz, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Interlaken Ost ferry terminal → Brienz ferry terminal via steamboat Lötschberg (1 hr 13 min, 6 stops, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or 17.50 CHF)
Traveling around tranquil Brienzersee is a breeze using the fleet of four historic boats serving the public with daily routes around the lake. Lake Brienz is a large alpine lake and impresses with its extraordinary turquoise color; enjoy a boat trip cruising through these waters and marvel at the imposing mountain ranges and shores lined with picturesque villages composed of traditional wooden houses. As described in a piece naming Brienzersee one of the top ten lakes worth seeing in Switzerland, this body of water is best known for the extensive range of water sports available including kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, water skiing, and of course swimming!
While you can technically train to Brienz and save around an hour of transit time, that’s no way to enjoy the invigorating mountain air. Undoubtedly the most enjoyable way to get to Brienz from Interlaken is by boat, so be sure to take the ferry at least one way, and you can always return to town via the more efficient train routes!
On the scenic journey to Brienz, you’ll make six stops passing other lake highlights at Bönigen, Ringgenberg, Niederried, Iseltwald, Oberried, and Giessbach, before finally arriving in Brienz.
45 minutes into your ride, the ferry will stop at Iseltwald, which among other notable sights like Seeburg Castle offers tourists the opportunity to visit the famous pier from the Netflix series, Crash Landing on You. Rather than hopping back on the ferry, you can also take the idyllic lakeside path to Giessbach Falls, which takes around an hour and a half to walk.
The next stop 15 minutes away will bring you to the cascading Giessbach Falls. Sparkling down 14 stages over a height of more than 500 meters from the mountains into Lake Brienz, this waterfall is among the most picturesque in Switzerland, offering a spectacular natural show. If time permits, consider getting off the ferry at this stop to step back in time within the 19th century Grand Hotel Giessbach, a testament to the grandeur of the Belle Époque era. Overlooking the lake, you can either take an immersive path up to the hotel which allows you to walk behind the cascading water, or ride the historical funicular to save some time and energy, which is the oldest operational funicular in Switzerland that's still in its original state!
Brienz
After cruising around for an hour and a half, you’ll arrive at a quaint village on the eastern shore of the lake. Unlike the more bustling tourist hubs, Brienz offers a laid-back and authentic experience of Swiss village life. The picturesque streets, traditional Swiss houses, and overall aura of tranquility provides a glimpse into everyday life in the Swiss Alps.
Renowned for its long-standing tradition of woodcarving, this craft dates back to the 18th century and has shaped the village's identity, making it a center for woodcarving in Switzerland with a school for carving and violin-making still in operation today. Visitors can explore local workshops, process wood themselves at the Woodcarving School, or visit the Swiss Woodcarving Museum to learn about the art form's traditional methods and techniques.
The most romantic part of Brienz is the fabled Brunngasse, which was once awarded the title of the “most beautiful street in Europe.” The 18th century chalets lining this curved street look like they came straight out of a storybook, with splendid wood carvings and abundant flowers decorating their colorful exteriors. Sweeping vines wrap around their frames, kitsch garden gnomes spill out from the windowsills, and billowing geraniums create the impression that a forest maiden-turned-princess lives within these cottage walls.
After exploring the cozy alleys in the interior of Brienz, a walk along the traffic-free lake promenade is a must. The lake's beauty and surrounding mountain scenery offer breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere, which you can conveniently enjoy with free foldable chairs stored along the shore. Keep an eye out for sheds containing blue cloth-wrapped chairs, since you can pull these out and take a seat wherever you’d like—just be sure to return them when you’re done!
On this leisurely walk, you’ll stroll past small boat ports and playgrounds where you can embrace your inner child. If the weather is warm enough and you have a swimsuit on hand, consider taking a dip in the crystal alpine water amongst locals enjoying a summer swim.
Before taking the train back to Interlaken, be sure to browse the variety of local crafts and products Brienz artisans offer. Source unique souvenirs in shops selling handmade items, Swiss watches, and local culinary delights.
Dessert - Vanini Swiss Chocolate
FROM: Brienz (3855 Brienz, Switzerland)
TO: Vanini Swiss Chocolate (Höheweg 12, 3800 Matten bei Interlaken, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Brienz BE, Bahnhof → Interlaken Ost via EV bus toward Interlaken Ost, Bahnhof → Interlaken West via IC train 61 towards Basel SBB on Swiss Federal Railways (33 min, 1 transfer in Interlaken Ost, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or 5.10 CHF)
Travel back to Interlaken West via train, or by ferry if it’s not too late in the day, before stopping for a sweet treat. Walk a quick 6 minutes down Bahnhofstrasse to reach Vanini Swiss Chocolate which, among selling chocolate goodies like truffles, candies, and pralines, also offers delicious gourmet gelato combinations.
I tried the Madagascar offering which comes with vanilla, fior di latte, and hazelnut gelato on a cone dipped in 52% dark chocolate covered in hazelnut from Piedmont. This may have been the best gelato I’ve ever had, with a creamy and smooth texture complimenting the rich, deluxe flavors. When visiting Switzerland you have to try Swiss chocolate in some form, and I’d argue getting a gourmet cone from Vanini is the best way to taste it! After enjoying your frozen treat, head back to your lodging to relax for the remainder of the evening.
Day 2
FROM: Interlaken (3800 Interlaken, Switzerland)
TO: Thun (3600 Thun, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Interlaken West → Thun via IC train 81 towards Romanshorn on Swiss Federal Railways (27 min, 2 stops, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or 7.80 CHF)
Now that you’ve spent a day exploring one of the lakes flanking Interlaken, Switzerland, you’ll spend the second of this 2 days itinerary in Interlaken traveling around the other! Assuming you already rode the ferry on Brienzersee, I’d recommend simply taking the train to Thun since the experience is essentially identical, and the same destination will take you 2 hours and 10 minutes to reach via boat versus spending 30 minutes admiring the lake from the train.
Mühleschleuse
After exiting the Thun train station, walk down Bahnhofstrasse and through the Bahnhofbrücke bridge to approach a second bridge at the end of Freienhofgasse: Mühleschleuse. The difference between the first and second bridge is that the latter is sluice, or a type of lock managing the water level. The underlying mechanism controlling the flow of water just so happens to create an epic wave that rages all day long, which is why you’re likely to see surfers shredding this swell! Known as “the Monster” by locals, surfing at Mühleschleuse is like reef surfing at a shallow spot, with surfers riding just above the river as rocks hide under the surface and along the sides of the wave. The impressive power bursting through this gate is known to cause injuries, halve boards, and snap fins, which is why only experienced river surfers should take on this wave. Odds are you don’t have a wetsuit and board handy anyways, so you can take the easier route and watch the surfers from above!
I was totally entranced watching these shredders absolutely rip the wave, with many of them cutting back and forth into a full-360° spin! You can easily spend a good half hour watching the line of surfers each give this monster a shot, but it’s important to note this experience is only possible in the spring when there’s enough water drainage to create the coveted surf spot.
Thun Castle
When you’ve had enough surfing for one day, continuing for 5 minutes up Schlossberg will take you to Thun Castle. Built by the Dukes of Zähringen, this medieval castle dates back to the 12th century. Positioned on a hill above the city, the castle offers views over the town and the Aare River, thus granting it with a strategic position for defensive purposes and control over the region.
Over the centuries since its construction, Thun Castle has been used for various purposes including serving as a residence for Bernese bailiffs and later as military barracks. Today, it houses a museum that showcases the region's cultural heritage, including historical artifacts, art, and exhibits related to the castle's history and the city of Thun.
For just CHF 10, you can explore the castle museum which is open from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM daily, with some seasons offering extended hours. Inside you’ll find exhibitions detailing the 900 years of urban development building up the castle, town, and countryside on the cellar floor. As you continue climbing up, you’ll explore treasures from the Thun town hall collection on the first floor, 800 years of governors ruling within Thun Castle on the second, and a unique ceremonial hall from the late Middle Ages on the third floor. The fourth floor explores Thun Castle’s function as a ducal building, corn chamber, and prison throughout the years, with the fifth opening up under the complex wooden structure of the Bernese hipped roof.
My absolutely favorite part of this experience, however, was the fact that you can climb into each of the four towers and enjoy the impressive view of the town, lake, and wonderful mountains below! I’ve never toured a historic building before that actually allowed you to venture into the towering turrets, and I can’t imagine being granted this privilege in more well-known destinations. This surprising freedom makes visiting the Thun Castle towers a must-do activity if you’re in town, and as a reward for climbing 6 flights of stairs you can gaze out like Rapunzel from these old prison chambers and witness an outstanding view of the surrounding landscape!
If you’ve got time to spare, the grounds around Thun Castle are stunning and include Stadtkirche Thun, a protestant church from the early 1300s. This remarkable example of Gothic architecture is interesting to observe with its impressive spire, stained glass windows, and the intricate details of its construction, like an astrological sun dial painted on the side of the structure.
Obere Hauptgasse
Once you’ve finished exploring Thun Castle, walk down Kirchtreppe to see a lovely painting of knights on the underside of this wooden pavilion. Following this walkway downhill will bring you to Obere Hauptgasse, a quaint commercial lane with bars, boutiques, and cafes.
Serving as a lively gathering place for the community and visitors, one of the most distinctive features of Obere Hauptgasse is its two-level layout. Unlike a conventional single roadway, it’s split into two levels, with the lower level accommodating shops and the pedestrian pathway, while the upper level consists of a covered sidewalk—or lauben—that runs parallel to the buildings.
Regardless of which level you explore, the buildings alongside charming Obere Hauptgasse are sure to capture your attention with beautiful architectural details including frescoes, intricate woodwork, and traditional Swiss designs. Spend time window shopping along this picturesque street, and once you get hungry it’s time to return to the riverfront!
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting Thun on a holiday, expect the majority of shops and restaurants to be closed. Unknowingly traveling to Thun on Whit Monday, my travel companion and I didn’t have much luck shopping and had pretty slim pickings in terms of our available dining options.
Lunch - Del Padre
Return to the riverside street Mühleplatz and grab a table at Del Padre to experience the best Italian cuisine in the Bernese Oberland. Modern style meets classic taste in this ristorante and pizzeria combo where you can expect only the best, freshest ingredients to be served. Stopping in for a quick bite, my best friend and I enjoyed some delectable bruschetta topped with juicy red tomatoes, which we paired with crisp bottles of Coca-Cola to keep us refreshed throughout our long travel day. If anyone in your party has food restrictions, Del Padre can also cater to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dining needs. While we didn’t taste any ourselves, observing the steaming hot pasta, pizza, and risotto served to the tables around us made our mouths water — so if you’re craving Italian cuisine while in Switzerland be sure to stop by Del Padre in Thun!
Paragliding Interlaken
FROM: Thun (3600 Thun, Switzerland)
TO: Interlaken (3800 Interlaken, Switzerland)
TRANSPORTATION: Thun → Interlaken West via IC train 61 towards Interlaken Ost on Swiss Federal Railways (27 min, 2 stops, free w/ Swiss Travel Pass or 7.80 CHF)
After exploring the town of Thun, be sure to return to Interlaken just in time for your paragliding experience! Since the paragliding harnesses wrap around your upper thighs, we returned to Hotel de La Paix to change out of our dresses before beginning the high-flying excursion.
If you weren’t already convinced that if you made the trek to Interlaken, you might as well sign up for paragliding, the hundreds of gliders you’ll see every day in the sky may change your mind. I hadn’t originally planned to sign-up for this excursion since it’s pretty expensive, but the FOMO was too much for us to overcome and we decided we couldn’t leave Interlaken, Switzerland without participating in this tourist ritual.
When signing up for any aerial activity, it’s critical to do your research in advance given you’re essentially putting your life in your guide’s hand! That being said, we felt totally comfortable flying with the leading local expert in tandem paragliding flights, and Paragliding Interlaken’s team of highly qualified pilots made our experience that much better by chatting with us throughout the trip.
Soaring high above Interlaken and Lake Thun was a life changing experience I’m convinced you have to do at least once if you’re in the area. There’s no better way to experience the peaceful beauty of the region than from this viewpoint, and as you descend your pilot can insert some thrill by flipping the both of you almost all the way around!
-
Once you’ve arrived in Interlaken West, you can ride bus 103 towards Iseltwald, Dorfplatz lasting 3 minutes over 3 stops to get to the Paragliding Interlaken storefront, or you can just walk the 15 minutes down Höheweg. If you take the bus, you’ll board at Interlaken Bahnhof West and hop off at Interlaken, Drei Tannen.
If you fly with Paragliding Interlaken, you can expect to take 20 minute drive in their provided mini van up to Beatenberg, from where you’ll eventually step off the mountain and take flight! On the way to the Amisbuhl hang gliding and paragliding launch point, you’ll receive the safety talk and a briefing on the take-off and landing process. After exiting the van, it’s a quick 3 minute walk to the take-off site from which you can enjoy majestic views over the Interlaken region and nearby Jungfrau mountain as your pilot sets up all the equipment. Throughout the excursion, your pilot will take photos and pictures which you can view on a tablet at the landing field. If you like the pictures, you can purchase them for 40 CHF and receive them on your phone instantly!
Pro Tip:
I casually noted to my pilot that my best friend and I almost hadn’t signed up for this incredible experience due to the prohibitive cost, and he was kind enough to cut us a deal on the resulting media for sale. We got both of our in-flight pictures and videos for 40 CHF, essentially splitting the cost in half — so depending on the vibes of your guide, it’s worth exploring a deal!
Dinner - Asllanis Corner
After the exhilaration of our flights we were ravenous, so we asked our local guides for a restaurant recommendation and they unanimously said we needed to eat at Asllanis Corner! While you may need to wait a while in the queue—which turned into 45 minutes of standing around for us—this spot undoubtedly serves up the best burgers in Interlaken! They don’t take reservations, but I can attest that these classic beef burgers were absolutely worth the wait. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, a vegetarian burger, or a twist on the Swiss raclette, Asllanis Corner has something for everyone, and their special Asllanis's Sauce will have you coming back for more!
How Much Do Two Days in Interlaken Cost?
Following the above 2 days Interlaken itinerary cost me $635.85, or $317.92 per day, as a young college student on a budget:
Transportation
$111.05 - 2nd class 4 day Swiss Travel Pass Youth, itemized over two days
$38.78 - individually priced train ticket back to Zürich when departing from Interlaken West
Food
$11.07 - Madagascar gourmet ice cream from Vanini Swiss Chocolate
$27.58 - Bruschetta and a non-alcoholic beverage from Del Padre in Thun
$27.78 - Classic beef burger from Asllanis Corner
Activities
$204.03 - Tandem paragliding experience with Paragliding Interlaken
Lodging
$183.19 - Two nights in a Standard Double Room at Hotel de La Paix, split between two people
Souvenirs
$32.35 - Interlaken mug and Christmas ornament souvenir from Edelweiss Shop
Evidently, this was not a destination where I stuck to a strict budget. While I had not originally planned to paraglide in Interlaken, once I arrived there with my best friend it felt like too enticing of an opportunity to pass up — as the kids say, YOLO. If you’re looking for an even bigger adrenaline rush (and have the cash to put your money where your mouth is), consider skydiving from a helicopter instead of paragliding for the “low” price of 475 CHF.
If you’re on a tighter budget—or have a fear of heights—skip the paragliding excursion and instead watch gliders land in Höhematte Park. Even if you don’t specifically seek them out, you’ll see a ton flying in the sky anyways!
What to Wear in Interlaken?
Interlaken (and Switzerland in general) is all about functional fashion. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, you’ll want to pack thoughtful gear tailored to the activities on your itinerary, while considering what kind of durable materials will accommodate the long days you’ll spend outdoors.
Given the combination of charming Swiss towns and adventure activities found around Interlaken, you’ll likely want to snap some cute photos while still being prepared to jump out of a helicopter at a moment’s notice (if that’s your sort of thing, of course). Unlike hiking-focused destinations like Lauterbrunnen, consider incorporating the pieces below in your Interlaken packing list to dress to impress while staying actively outdoorsy.
Slouchy Overalls
this all-in-one-attire provides durable, free range of motion while keeping your legs protected from gliding harnesses
Staple Tees
you can never go wrong with a staple white tee, but something about them on a mountain backdrop feels extra crisp
Dressy Rompers
rompers disguised as dresses will make you feel girly with the added benefit of hidden shorts for long days outside
Monochrome Matching
mixing black and white pieces curates a colorway that pops against the bright blues and greens of this landscape
Breezy Button Downs
billowing button downs add a classic, structured element to your look while keeping you cool and comfortable
Handy Handbags
a functional bag with straps will ensure all your essentials are on hand even if you’re on the go all day
Should You Paraglide in Interlaken?
Well, duh! Sometimes the stereotypical tourist activity in a destination is that popular for a reason — and this is definitely one of those cases! Paragliding in Interlaken may be what every other tourist is planning to do, but there’s truly no better way to breathe in the crisp mountain air than by gliding above the peaks while viewing the sprawling beauty below. If you travel to Interlaken, you might as well join all the other gliders you’ll see in the sky!
If you’re thinking of traveling to Switzerland, you’re probably already aware of Interlaken as a premier destination given its notoriety among travelers. But just in case you need any additional convincing, Switzerland stands out to me for a multitude of reasons, including its breathtaking natural beauty, cultural richness, impeccable infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability. The majestic Swiss Alps—with their snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes—offer an unparalleled outdoor experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, while nearby charming cities seamlessly blend modern sophistication with the rest of the country’s natural landscapes. I firmly believe that Switzerland's commitment to quality is the secret sauce that elevates every aspect of its society. Renowned for its efficient transport system, cleanliness, safety, and delectable culinary delights, the country ensures an indulgent and comfortable travel experience for all.
Four days in Switzerland was not nearly enough, and I’ll surely be booking a flight back as soon as the opportunity presents itself. I’ve told everyone in my personal life they must visit Switzerland at least once in their life, and the same is true for you! Discover the beauty of Interlaken, Switzerland and you will not be disappointed.
✺ TRAVEL TOOLS ✺
Interlaken Customized Map (Google Maps)
✺ ABOUT ME ✺
Hi, I’m Ashley. I’m determined to see the world. All of it. Are you coming with?
While I respect the digital nomads, van life, and the hardcore backpackers—that’s just not me.
I’m convinced I can travel and keep my job.
It’ll take a lifetime, but I’m going to make it to all 195 countries before my time is up—and I’m taking you along for the ride!
✺ READ MORE ON THE BLOG ✺
