Switzerland is a dream destination for many travelers, with majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages. And if it’s your first time in Switzerland, there’s no better base than Interlaken, the adventure capital of the Alps. This guide brings together everything you need to know, from preparation to itineraries and day trips, so you can make the most of your Swiss journey.
Table of contents:
1. Before You Travel
- First Time in Switzerland: What You Need to Know
- What to Pack on Your Summer Adventure to Interlaken
- The Best Time to Visit Interlaken
- How Many Days Do You Need in Interlaken?
- How to Save Money While Traveling in Switzerland
2. When You Arrive
3. Exploring Interlaken
- Ultimate Interlaken Travel Guide: Best Itineraries, Things to Do & Hidden Gems
- Best Things to Do in Interlaken
- A Sunny Day in Interlaken
4. Itineraries for First-Timers
5. Day Trips & Nature Escapes
- Top Lakes & Waterfalls Near Interlaken: Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, Lauterbrunnen Valley.
- Day Trips from Interlaken, Explore the Jungfrau Region: Grindelwald, Mürren, Oeschinensee.
1. Before You Travel
Prepare for a smooth and unforgettable trip by getting the essentials right before you arrive. From understanding local transport passes and currency to packing for changing alpine weather, these practical tips will help you make the most of your Swiss adventure from day one.
First Time in Switzerland: What You Need to Know
Switzerland might feel familiar to seasoned European travelers, but there are a few essentials to know to be ready to enjoy the best journey in Interlaken:
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF), not the Euro.
- Plugs: Type J (don’t forget your adapter!).
- Transport: Swiss trains are punctual and efficient. Make sure to download the SBB app.
- Languages: German in Interlaken, but English is widely understood.
- Tap Water: Clean and drinkable, perfect for your reusable bottle.
- Quiet Hours & Emergency Numbers: Respect local norms and stay safe.
Your complete guide here: First time in Switzerland: What you need to know: Your Swiss guide
What to Pack on Your Summer Adventure
For your first time in Switzerland, you should think practical layers: hiking shoes, a rain jacket, a reusable water bottle, and of course, your camera. Summers can swing from hot sunshine to chilly mountain breezes.
For more tips on what to pack on your next summer trip to Interlaken
The Best Time to Visit Interlaken
Interlaken is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on your plans. For vibrant outdoor adventures and lush landscapes, visit from June to September. If you’re drawn to snowy peaks and winter sports, December to March offers a magical alpine experience.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hiking, swimming, paragliding.
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Golden colors, fewer crowds.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Skiing in nearby resorts.
- Spring (Mar–May): Blooming valleys and waterfalls.
Check out our Best Time to Visit Interlaken: A Season-by-Season Guide
How Many Days Do You Need?
Plan at least 3 days to enjoy Interlaken’s highlights, from lake cruises to alpine hikes, and nearby gems like Jungfraujoch or Lauterbrunnen. With 5 to 7 days, you can explore at a relaxed pace and add adrenaline adventures or scenic day trips into the Swiss Alps. One day is doable, but you’ll only scratch the surface.
Our suggestion is a minimum of 3 days to balance adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing.
How Many Days Do You Need in Interlaken?
How to Save Money While Traveling in Switzerland
Known for its breathtaking beauty and high prices, Switzerland can be explored on a budget with the right strategy. From choosing cost-effective transport to enjoying free outdoor activities, a few smart tips will help you experience the best of the country without overspending.
Switzerland is pricey, but you can cut costs by:
- Use your hostel kitchen instead of eating out for every meal.
- Take advantage of the Interlaken Guest Card (see below).
- Booking activities in advance.
Make sure to read our TOP 7: How to save money while traveling in Switzerland for more tips.
2. When You Arrive at Balmers Hostel
Step into a warm and welcoming atmosphere where fellow travelers gather from around the world. Check in, drop your bags, and explore the cozy common areas, the perfect place to relax, meet new friends, and start planning your Interlaken adventures.
About the Hostel: Map, Working Hours, Tips
At Balmers Hostel, you’ll find everything you need to feel at home: common areas, helpful staff, and insider tips on activities. Take a quick walk-through when you arrive; it’s the best way to get your bearings.
How to Make the Most of Your Interlaken Guest Card
Every guest receives a Guest Card upon check-in, which offers complimentary local bus rides, discounts on attractions, and reduced entry fees to select pools and museums. Keep it handy!
How to Make the Most of Your Interlaken Guest Card
3. Exploring Interlaken
Step out of the hostel and straight into adventure. Interlaken is packed with stunning views, chill lake vibes, and epic mountain trails. Stroll through town with new travel buddies, hop on a boat, or chase waterfalls nearby; every day’s an adventure waiting to happen.
Ultimate Interlaken Travel Guide: Best Itineraries, Things to Do & Hidden Gems
Interlaken is more than a gateway; it's a playground between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with panoramic views of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau
Whether you crave adrenaline or serenity, plan your day with help from the reception, guided hikes, paragliding, rafting, or canyoning await
Ultimate Interlaken Travel Guide: Best Itineraries, Things to Do & Hidden Gems
Best Things to Do in Interlaken
Interlaken is packed with unforgettable experiences, from paragliding over turquoise lakes and hiking alpine trails to cruising Lake Brienz and exploring nearby villages like Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald. Adventure is always just around the corner.
Wander pastel streets, pick up Swiss chocolate, or stroll to charming lakeside villages like Iseltwald or Neuhaus, all easy with the Guest Card (see previous section).
Best things to do in Interlaken
A Sunny Day in Interlaken
Grab coffee to-go, explore the vibrant town center, then catch a bus to Lake Brienz or Lake Thun, both covered by your Guest Card from Balmers Hostel. Sunny days here are perfect for outdoor adventures and making memories with new friends
A sunny day in Interlaken
The best things to do in Interlaken during the Summer
4. Itineraries for First-Timers
Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer escape, these curated itineraries will help you experience the best of the region, from breathtaking mountain views to charming alpine villages and thrilling outdoor activities.
What to Do in One Day in Interlaken: The Perfect Itinerary
Start with a swift town wander, ice cream near the river, some souvenir shopping, and a snack from local markets.
Next, hop on a Guest Card, enabled bus to enjoy a lakeside stop or a discounted trip up Harder Kulm or the Schynige Platte for jaw-dropping alpine views.
End your day back at Balmers, dinner in the shared kitchen, a drink at the bar, or a group activity around the communal fire pit.
What to Do in One Day in Interlaken: The Perfect Itinerary
3 Days in Interlaken: 2 Itineraries
Three days might sound short, but in Interlaken, you can pack in so much from alpine peaks and waterfalls to lakeside charm and adrenaline adventures. Whether you prefer hiking at a relaxed pace or chasing thrills, this guide gives you two curated itineraries to help you make the most of every moment. Pick the one that matches your vibe, and let the journey begin.
3 days in Interlaken: 2 itineraries
5. Day Trips & Nature Escapes
Top Lakes & Waterfalls Near Interlaken
Interlaken isn’t just mountains and peaks; it’s also a water wonderland. If you love lakes, roaring waterfalls, and wild water adventures, this guide will take you behind the scenes: where to swim, where to splash, and where to dive into alpine beauty just around the corner from Balmers Hostel. Whether you’re up for tranquil floats or heart-pounding rafting, we’ve got you covered.
Top lakes and waterfalls near Interlaken
When you’ve soaked up enough alpine heights and lakesides, it’s time to go deeper, into gorges carved by rushing waters, caverns lit by hidden light, and pathways that echo stories of earth and time. Just a short trip from Interlaken, these gorges and caves are perfect for exploring the wild, dramatic corners of Switzerland. Lace up your boots, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready for some unforgettable natural sculpting.
Top Gorges and Caves to Explore Near Interlaken
Day Trips from Interlaken – Explore the Jungfrau Region
Interlaken is more than just a basecamp; it’s your springboard into some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking day-trips. Whether you’re after lush valleys, alpine villages, crystal lakes, or historic cities, there’s a perfect escape just a train ride away. These suggestions will help you venture beyond the hostel and discover what lies along the horizon.
After days filled with mountains, lakes, and new adventures, coming back to Balmers feels like coming home. Whether you’re swapping stories in the garden or planning tomorrow’s thrills, Interlaken is best experienced with good vibes and great company, and Balmers is the perfect place to find both.
