Interlaken
Interlaken
Interlaken is a picturesque town located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in Switzerland, and its name literally means 'between lakes.' With the stunning Bernese Alps as its backdrop, it's no wonder that Interlaken has become one of Switzerland's most popular tourist destinations. The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the Jungfrau region, including the famous Jungfraujoch, often called the 'Top of Europe.'
The town itself has a rich history dating back to the 12th century, when it was home to an Augustinian monastery. Over the centuries, Interlaken evolved from a quiet religious center into a thriving tourist spot, especially after the opening of the Bernese Oberland Railway in 1890, which made the area more accessible to visitors.
Interlaken is known as the adventure capital of Switzerland. The surrounding region offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, paragliding, and other outdoor activities that attract thrill-seekers from around the world. But it's not all about adrenaline – the town also features beautiful parks, historic buildings, and charming shops selling Swiss chocolates, watches, and other local specialties.
In addition to its natural beauty, Interlaken offers a taste of Swiss culture. The local cuisine includes hearty mountain dishes like rösti (potato fritters) and fondue. Throughout the year, the town hosts various events and festivals that showcase traditional Swiss music, dance, and crafts, giving visitors a glimpse into the authentic Alpine way of life.
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Things to do in Interlaken
Top things to do in Interlaken by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Interlaken
Best hotels in Interlaken:
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5th Floor Basic Rooms (budget hotel)
The 5th Floor Basic Rooms in Interlaken offer a cozy and budget-friendly option right in the heart of town. Located at the top of the traditional Hotel Interlaken, these rooms provide simple but comfortable accommodations with shared bathroom facilities. While you'll need to climb one flight of stairs from the elevator, the rooms make up for it with nice views and a peaceful setting away from the bustle below.
The rooms come equipped with the essentials - comfy beds, a washbasin, electric kettle, and free WiFi. What really stands out is the location - you're just a 5-minute walk from the train station and main sights. The included breakfast buffet gets rave reviews from guests and provides a great start to days of exploring the stunning surrounding mountains and lakes. For travelers looking to save some cash without sacrificing a prime location, these basic rooms hit the spot.
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Apartment Lala (homestay)
Apartment Lala is a cozy little retreat in the heart of Interlaken. Just a 10-minute stroll from the town center, this place gives you the best of both worlds - easy access to restaurants and shops, but also a peaceful spot to relax after a day of adventure.
The apartment itself is compact but has everything you need, including a fully-equipped kitchenette if you feel like whipping up a meal. The views of the surrounding mountains from the windows are pretty spectacular too. Mario and Daniela, the hosts, go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. They even leave some complimentary snacks and drinks for when you arrive.
Location-wise, it's super convenient. There's a bus stop just a minute away if you don't feel like walking. And being so close to Interlaken West station makes it easy to explore other parts of the region. All in all, Apartment Lala is a great home base for experiencing everything Interlaken has to offer.
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Hotel Du Nord (luxury hotel)
Hotel Du Nord staff here are super friendly and go out of their way to help guests plan activities or give local tips. And the breakfast is a real highlight - there's a huge spread with lots of fresh options to fuel up before a day of exploring.
If you're looking for a cozy home base in Interlaken with great service and mountain views, Hotel Du Nord is definitely worth checking out. The historic building has tons of character but modern amenities, giving you the best of both worlds for your Swiss adventure.
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Hotel Beausite (medium range hotel)
Hotel Beausite is a walk from the town center and train station, it's perfectly placed for exploring the area. The rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, giving you a taste of that Swiss Alpine magic right from your window.
One of the best things about this place is the free afternoon tea and cake - it's a lovely touch that makes you feel right at home. The staff are super friendly and go out of their way to help with anything you need. And the breakfast? Let's just say you won't be leaving hungry.
If you're looking to get out and about, the hotel provides a free Interlaken Card for guests. This gets you free public transport around town, which is really handy. All in all, Hotel Beausite offers a cozy, welcoming base for your Swiss adventure. It's the kind of place that makes you want to come back again and again.
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Best hostels in Interlaken:
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Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof (hostel)
Backpackers Villa in Interlaken is a great spot for budget travelers looking to explore the Swiss Alps. The hostel has a prime location just a short walk from the train station, making it easy to get around. The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, with mountain views that'll make you want to get outside and explore.
One of the best things about this place is all the freebies - you can use the public pools, play mini golf, and hop on local buses at no extra cost. The shared kitchen is well-equipped if you want to cook your own meals. And the staff are super friendly and knowledgeable about the area, always ready with hiking tips or activity recommendations.
While it's not fancy, Backpackers Villa has everything you need for an affordable stay in one of Switzerland's most beautiful regions. The chill vibe and mix of travelers make it easy to meet people if you're looking to make some new friends on your trip. All in all, it's a solid choice if you want a comfy home base for adventures in Interlaken.
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Interlaken Youth Hostel (party hostel)
The Interlaken Youth Hostel is a great spot for budget travelers looking to explore the Swiss Alps. Located right next to the Interlaken Ost train station, it's super convenient for getting around the area. The hostel has a laid-back vibe with a mix of dorms and private rooms, all with big windows that let in lots of natural light.
The common areas are pretty nice too - there's a restaurant serving up tasty meals, a game room with pool and ping pong, and outdoor spaces to chill in when the weather's good. What I really liked was how close it is to everything - you can easily walk to grocery stores, restaurants, and some of Interlaken's main attractions. Plus, the staff are friendly and can help you plan activities in the mountains.
If you're on a tight budget but still want a clean, comfortable place to stay in a prime location, this hostel is definitely worth checking out. Just keep in mind it can get busy during peak season, so book early if you can.