This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you are better prepared for what to expect, what not to expect and can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Interlaken. To help you make friends with Interlaken before you visit, we've included a few helpful and fun things you should know about the area. Enjoy!
Interlaken is located in the southwestern part of Switzerland, in the German-speaking canton of Bern. It is an extremely popular tourist destination, not only because of what the small town of Interlaken has to offer, but also because of its function as the gateway to the Swiss Alps and as the traffic junction for visiting some of the most wonderful lakes and mountains of the country. Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and near the River Aare, it is easily approachable by boat, but it has numerous trains and buses terminating here as well. This is also the starting point of some of Switzerland's most important mountain railways, amongst which is the one taking passengers to Europe's highest railway station of Jungfraujoch that might be the most well known, and Brienz-Rothorn, Switzerland's last steam railway that might be the most romantic.
Amongst ardent hikers, the most popular destination from here is definitely the mountain trio of Jungfrau (just over four thousand meters), the Mönch (also just over four thousand meters), and the Eiger (just under four thousand meters). Although the peak of these mountains is only accessible to experienced mountaineers, there are several mountain trails available on these mountains for those only venturing for a day's hike. For the least adventurous, Harder Kulm (just over a thousand meters) and the Schynige Platte (just over two thousand meters) might be other options to consider, as both offer breath-taking sceneries and good trekking and as both are approachable from Interlaken by railway.
If you do not long for altitudes, there are plenty of entertainment facilities from which to choose nearer to the town of Interlaken as well. The adjacent lakes offer some excellent cruises, and Jungfrau Park -- an amusement park just south of the city -- is ideal for families arriving with children.
You will find Interlaken hostels to suit any budget, taste, or standard; staying at an Interlaken hostel will keep your travel costs down while still allowing you to experience all the area has to offer.
Written by local enthusiast for Interlaken hostels
JudyM
Interlaken is the place to be if you're into extreme sports. It's the ideal base for hiking up the Alps or trips to Jungfraujoch and the surrounding valleys such as Lauterbrunnen. I was lucky enough to be in town for the two-hundredth Unspunnen festival -- a unique cultural experience. Come to Interlaken with plenty of adrenaline -- and cash! It's very expensive, as is the country as a whole.
Hannah
Interlaken is the bomb.
Thijs
My friend and I enjoyed a gondola ride up one of the mountains to a beautiful hotel where we ate lunch and hiked around the forest area. We enjoyed nice October weather and had a great time with the Oktoberfest tents and its people.
Jordan
Interlaken is a really nice place specially in summer. Like other touristy area, Interlaken has various bars, cafes, and branded stores. But if you are looking for natural-real Swiss thing, try to catch some of the small villages surrounding it. Leissigen (4 minutes by regional train from Interlaken) is a worth place to see. Dont worry, almost everyone can speak English.
Rina
The best thing about Interlaken is it's vicinity to some of the most beautiful mountain senery around. Spend some time meandering in town maybe catch a great dinner at one of the many restaurants then get out of town and go explore those beautiful Alps. Interlaken is your bigger town in the mountains, offering what the smaller mountain towns don't.
Monika
Switzerland is a place that is not to be missed. Absolutely one of the most beautiful on the planet. Interlaken is the town to visit as most others are boring shopping malls. This place has everything for a really nice rest in between big cities as well as some of the most amazing outdoor activites you could imagine.
DRD