In this guide
Interlaken is one of the best places in Switzerland to base yourself. Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, the town sits at the heart of one of the country’s most extensive public transport networks. Within an hour or two, you can reach glacier viewpoints, alpine villages, turquoise lakes, mountain railways and scenic hiking trails—all without renting a car.
If you’re wondering where to go beyond Interlaken itself, this guide covers the very best day trips by train, bus, boat and cable car. Whether you have two days or an entire week, these destinations are easy to combine with your stay while enjoying some of Switzerland’s most spectacular scenery.
Why Interlaken is the Perfect Base
Unlike many mountain villages, Interlaken connects several major rail lines with lake boats, buses and mountain railways.
From either Interlaken Ost or Interlaken West, you can comfortably reach destinations throughout the Bernese Oberland.
Advantages include:
- Excellent train connections
- No need to drive mountain roads
- Flexible Swiss Travel Pass access
- Easy access to famous hiking trails
- Plenty of restaurants and accommodation options
If you’re still deciding how long to stay, read How Many Days in Interlaken?
1. Lauterbrunnen
Travel time: 20 minutes by train
Lauterbrunnen is one of Switzerland’s most famous valleys. Towering limestone cliffs surround the village while dozens of waterfalls cascade into the valley below.
The highlight is undoubtedly Staubbach Falls, but the village also serves as the gateway to Mürren, Wengen and several incredible hiking trails.
Popular things to do include:
- Visit Staubbach Falls
- Walk through the village
- Take the cable car to Grütschalp
- Continue to Mürren
- Hike to Gimmelwald
- Visit Trümmelbach Falls
Many visitors combine Lauterbrunnen with Mürren in a single day.
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2. Grindelwald
Travel time: 35 minutes
Grindelwald is surrounded by some of Switzerland’s most iconic mountains, including the Eiger.
Unlike Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald feels more open, with panoramic mountain views in nearly every direction.
Popular activities include:
- First Cliff Walk
- First Flyer
- Bachalpsee hike
- Eiger Trail
- Glacier Canyon
- Village centre
If you’re visiting for the first time, consider spending a full day here rather than rushing through several attractions.
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3. Oeschinensee
Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Oeschinensee regularly appears on lists of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes—and for good reason.
After taking the train to Kandersteg, a short walk and cable car bring you to the lake.
You can:
- Walk around the shoreline
- Rent a rowing boat
- Swim in summer
- Complete the Panorama Trail
- Enjoy one of Switzerland’s most scenic picnic spots
If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss the Panorama Trail.
Oeschinensee Day Trip: Planning a visit to Switzerland’s most famous alpine lake? My Oeschinensee Day Trip covers transport, hiking options, the cable car, and practical tips for your visit.
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4. Jungfraujoch
Travel time: around 1 hour 45 minutes
Known as the Top of Europe, Jungfraujoch is one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain excursions.
Although expensive, it’s an unforgettable experience if the weather is clear.
Highlights include:
- Aletsch Glacier views
- Ice Palace
- Sphinx Observatory
- Snow all year round
- Europe’s highest railway station
Book tickets well in advance during summer.
5. Brienz
Travel time: 20 minutes
Brienz sits on the eastern end of Lake Brienz and is one of the prettiest lakeside villages in Switzerland.
Known for its traditional wooden houses and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a slower pace than Interlaken.
If you’re visiting in summer, arriving by boat is highly recommended.
6. Thun
Travel time: 30 minutes
If you’d like a break from mountain villages, head west to Thun.
Its medieval old town, riverside cafés and castle create a completely different atmosphere from Interlaken.
Top attractions:
- Thun Castle
- Historic Old Town
- River Aare
- Lake Thun promenade
- Schadau Park
It’s one of the easiest day trips from Interlaken and works well even in rainy weather.
7. Harder Kulm
Travel time: 10 minutes
If you’re short on time, Harder Kulm is the easiest mountain excursion from Interlaken.
The funicular departs just outside Interlaken Ost station and reaches the summit in about ten minutes.
At the top you’ll find:
- Two Lakes Bridge viewpoint
- Restaurant
- Panoramic terrace
- Views over Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
- Sunset photography opportunities
This is an excellent evening activity after another day trip.
8. Schynige Platte
Schynige Platte remains one of the region’s hidden gems.
The historic cogwheel railway climbs slowly through forests before reaching panoramic alpine meadows.
Highlights include:
- Alpine Garden
- Easy ridge walks
- Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau views
- Traditional mountain atmosphere
Compared to Jungfraujoch or First, Schynige Platte attracts fewer visitors.
9. Iseltwald
If you’ve seen photos of a small wooden pier surrounded by turquoise water, you’ve probably seen Iseltwald.
Located along Lake Brienz, the village is perfect for a relaxed half-day trip.
Things to do:
- Walk the lakeside
- Visit the famous landing stage
- Enjoy local cafés
- Continue by boat towards Giessbach Falls
Because of its small size, Iseltwald combines well with Brienz.
10. Giessbach Falls
One of the easiest additions to a Lake Brienz itinerary is Giessbach Falls.
Reachable by boat and funicular, the waterfall drops through multiple levels before reaching the lake.
Visitors can:
- Walk behind the waterfall
- Stay at the historic Grandhotel Giessbach
- Enjoy panoramic lake views
- Combine it with Brienz or Iseltwald
Discover more lakes: Looking for more beautiful lakes in the Jungfrau Region? My Best Lakes Near Interlaken compares the best options, including Oeschinensee, Lake Brienz, Lake Thun and Bachalpsee.
Sample 5-Day Interlaken Itinerary
| Day | Destination |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore Interlaken + Harder Kulm |
| Day 2 | Lauterbrunnen + Mürren |
| Day 3 | Grindelwald + Bachalpsee |
| Day 4 | Oeschinensee |
| Day 5 | Thun or Lake Brienz villages |
With more time, add Jungfraujoch or Schynige Platte.
Getting Around Without a Car
The Swiss public transport network is exceptionally reliable.
For most visitors, the easiest options are:
- Swiss Travel Pass
- Half Fare Card
- Berner Oberland Pass (for regional travel)
Always check mountain railway operating times before departure, especially outside the summer season.
Which Day Trip is Best?
| Destination | Best For | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Lauterbrunnen | Waterfalls | Half to full day |
| Grindelwald | Hiking | Full day |
| Oeschinensee | Lake scenery | Full day |
| Jungfraujoch | Bucket list | Full day |
| Thun | Historic town | Half day |
| Brienz | Lakeside village | Half day |
| Harder Kulm | Quick mountain views | 2–3 hours |
| Schynige Platte | Scenic hiking | Full day |
| Iseltwald | Relaxation | Half day |
| Giessbach Falls | Waterfalls | 2–3 hours |
Final Thoughts
Interlaken is arguably the best transport hub in the Swiss Alps. Within a short train ride, you can experience glacier viewpoints, crystal-clear lakes, charming mountain villages and some of the country’s best hiking trails—all without driving.
Frequently asked questions
