When planning your dream holiday at one of the most scenic destinations in Switzerland, Interlaken offers an unbeatable combination of stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and convenient transportation options. Whether you are seeking cozy vacation rentals, a family-friendly holiday rental, or a short-term rental close to nature and adventure, getting around in Interlaken is straightforward and enjoyable, making it easy to explore the picturesque canton of Bern. This guide provides all the essential information on public transport and getting around in Interlaken to ensure your stay is safe, comfortable, and filled with memorable experiences.
Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps, is renowned as a hub for outdoor adventures and scenic excursions. Its well-connected transportation network makes it an ideal destination for fun-loving, social travelers who want to maximize their holiday activities, from paragliding and river rafting to visiting charming villages and historic sites. With excellent public transport options, visitors can easily reach the best places to stay in Interlaken, along with outdoor activity centers, mountain resorts, and iconic sightseeing spots.
Public Transport in Interlaken: Your Gateway to Swiss Adventure
Getting around in Interlaken is simple and efficient thanks to a comprehensive network of trains, buses, boats, and cable cars. This allows travelers to enjoy a seamless holiday experience, focusing on adventure and relaxation rather than transport stress.
Trains are the backbone of public transport in the region. The Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West stations connect you to larger Swiss cities like Bern, Zurich, and Geneva, and provide easy access to scenic routes such as the Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB). The BOB train takes you through stunning alpine landscapes directly to destinations like Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Schynige Platte, perfect for day trips and outdoor activities.
For those staying in self-catering holiday rentals or family holiday accommodation, the train network offers flexibility and convenience, saving you time and effort. It’s the perfect way to explore the iconic Jungfrau region or unwind at lakeside resorts without the hassle of driving. When considering vacation rentals or places to stay in Interlaken, proximity to the train station can significantly enhance your experience.
Bus services complement the train network, operating regularly throughout Interlaken and neighboring towns. The bus routes enable visitors to reach remote mountain villages, trailheads, and local attractions that might not be accessible by train. For example, buses depart from Interlaken to Isenfluh, Lauterbrunnen, and nearby hiking trails—ideal for active families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure activities.
This integrated public transportation system in Interlaken is both safe and efficient, with clear schedules and multilingual signage. Visitors can purchase Swiss Travel Passes, which offer unlimited travel on trains, buses, boats, and some mountain lifts, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for exploring the canton of Bern and beyond during your holiday or vacation.
Getting Around Locally: Boats, Cable Cars, and Mountain Railways
Enhancing your experience at your holiday rental or holiday accommodation, the local transportation options in Interlaken extend beyond trains and buses. Incorporate scenic boat rides on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz to discover charming lakeside villages and enjoy local experiences like lakeside dining and water sports.
The vibrant boat services operate from Interlaken along the lakes, providing an enjoyable and picturesque way to get around. These are especially recommended if your stay is near the water or you’re looking to explore specific destination spots such as Spiez or Thun, both offering plenty of things to do and local activities.
For mountain enthusiasts, cable cars and cogwheel trains open up access to breathtaking peaks and hiking trails. The Harder Kulm funicular, just a short ride from central Interlaken, takes visitors to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the town, lakes, and surrounding Alps. From there, you can embark on hikes, sightseeing, or enjoy a meal at a mountaintop restaurant.
Particularly for families and adventure seekers staying in holiday rentals close to the station or cable car stations, these options allow for spontaneous trips to explore the region’s beauty. Remember, for a seamless experience, consider booking your mountain excursions in advance and checking schedules to maximize time between activities.
Accessible and Family-Friendly Transportation Tips
Interlaken’s transportation infrastructure prioritizes safety and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for family vacations and safety-conscious travelers. Most trains, buses, and boats are equipped to accommodate strollers, wheelchairs, and travelers with mobility needs. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the local experiences without hindrance.
If you’re traveling with children or senior family members, plan your routes and schedules to avoid peak times, which tend to be more crowded. Opt for early morning or late afternoon trips for a more relaxed experience. Additionally, many local tours and activities arrange transport pick-up and drop-off from your holiday rental — a convenience for families and groups seeking a stress-free holiday.
For added convenience during your stay, car rentals are available; however, with the excellent public transport options, many visitors prefer to rely on these sustainable and scenic modes of transportation. This approach is not only safe, but it also allows you to focus more on enjoying local experiences, exploring the best places to stay in Interlaken, and participating in fun activities.
Plan Your Stay for Maximum Convenience and Fun
Choosing the right holiday rental or place to stay in Interlaken can greatly enhance your travel experience. Look for accommodations close to stations, bus stops, or lakes to minimize transit time. Many holiday rentals are located within walking distance of local transport hubs, allowing you to quickly reach adventure activities, waterfalls, mountain peaks, or scenic tours that make up the best things to do in Interlaken.
If you’re seeking a cozy family-friendly holiday rental, a centrally located apartment or chalet can serve as a perfect base. This enables easy access to public transport and local amenities, saving crucial time and allowing you to focus on making the most of your vacation. For those interested in unique local experiences, consider staying close to the lakes or mountain resorts, where you can enjoy outdoor activities right from your doorstep.
To explore a full range of options for short-term rentals, vacation homes, and apartments, visit Search and Stay. This website provides a comprehensive selection of accommodations suited for family holidays, adventure seekers, and leisure travelers aiming for convenience and comfort.
Local Experiences and Things to Do in Interlaken
Beyond transportation, Interlaken offers countless local experiences and things to do that cater to the fun-loving traveler. From adrenaline-pumping skydiving and paragliding over the Swiss Alps to relaxed boat cruises on crystal-clear lakes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their holiday.
For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking trails through scenic valleys and alpine meadows provide spectacular views and fresh mountain air. Explore the area’s charming villages, each offering their own unique character, local cuisine, and cultural sites.
Discover more about exciting outdoor activities like canyoning and mountain biking, or indulge in relaxing spa days after your adventures. Many local tour operators organize guided excursions, combining activities like cheese tasting, mountain train rides, and visitas to local castles and museums.
To help plan your adventures, check out My Switzerland for inspiring itineraries and travel tips, or visit Swiss Travel System for detailed transport options and travel passes that make it easy to enjoy all these activities.