Active Guide to Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen

Interlaken sits between two beautiful lakes (hence the name) in the Bernese Oberland area a quick train ride from Zurich, Bern or Lucerne. Two train stations allow visitors to come and go. Interlaken Ost serves as the terminus for trains for Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald and area further up the mountains. The A8 also provides connections to other cities. The emerald Aare river connects the two lakes and welcomes you to feel its cool water. Try it!

Although this town is walkable it's packed with restaurants, bakeries, pubs and shops. Swiss cuisine isn't the only cuisine served here. Thai and Indian are also very popular!

Its location caters to those seeking a relaxed holiday or outdoor adventure.
Walk by dairy farms, hike up to villages, hang glide through the valleys or just eat cheese there is something for everyone. Of course don't forget about skiing in the winter.

Velo Cafe and Bar: Located in central Interlaken and noted for their coffee! Their menu and display case boasts food for everyone.

Salzano: Located outside of town this hotel and restaurant combo is open Tuesday through Saturday this family operated restaurant uses mostly local sourced ingredients. There is nature adventure menu incorporating wild herbs and trees in a unique experience that shouldn't be missed.

Restaurant Taverne: Just seeing carrot soup, veal ribeye, Swiss wagyu and fondue on the menu makes mouths water.

Cafe de Paris: Just skip and a hop away from Interlaken West. This cafe will satisfy even the most neediest of travelers with its extensive menu. Great children's menu as well!

Brasserie 17: Want to eat wings and watch a game after a long day of hiking? This is your place!

Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost: Yes, this by the train station, but when you just want to take food to your hotel... this is a great option.

India Village Restaurant: When in Interlaken... eat Indian cuisine! One word: Curry!

Day trips

Harder Kulm overlooks Interlaken and can be accessed by moderately steep hike or by funicular train. Both Lakes Brienz and Thun can be seen from a viewpoint that just so happens to sell drinks as well. Great late afternoon trip.

Lauterbrunnen and Murren: Take the train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen stroll through this quaint village towards Stechelberg, take a picture of Staubbach falls and the dairy farms (Some even have vending machines next to the road!) Take the Schilthornbahn cable car to the mostly car free village of Murren. Have a late lunch at Stagerstubli and then hike back down to Lauterbrunnen through the pastures and forest using the well marked signs.

Jungfrajoch: Starting at Interlaken Ost and two hours later end at what is called the Top of Europe! The train from Eigergletscherto Jungfrajoch is almost entirely inside the mountain. Engineering at its finest! Shop, play and eat before coming back down.

Grindelwald: Accessed by Interlaken Ost this small village is packed with adventure! Hang gliding, mountain biking and of course hiking can start or end here. If you want something more of a stroll the Grindelwald First Cliff Walk might be of interest as it is really more of a viewing platform.