Interlaken is often called the gateway to the Jungfrau region, but it’s much more than a pit stop for train rides or sky-high adventures. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, the town has subtle details and hidden experiences that even seasoned visitors often miss. Planning to visit Interlaken? Here’s the inside info you’ll be glad you knew.
Unique Fact: The lakes are connected by the Aare River, which in summer can be surprisingly warm for swimming—locals even float along it with inflatable tubes.
Most visitors stick to Höheweg, the main street lined with chocolate shops and tourist cafés. Unterseen, just a five-minute walk, preserves medieval charm. Cobblestone alleys, hidden courtyards, and painted house facades give a glimpse of life before tourism took over.
More about Unterseen: Just across the Aare River lies Unterseen, the older and more traditional neighbor of Interlaken. Founded in the 13th century, the town still follows its medieval layout with narrow lanes, painted wooden houses, and small town squares. The heart of Unterseen is Stadthausplatz, a quiet square lined with historic buildings, cafés, and a fountain that has served locals for centuries. Small bakeries, family-run restaurants, and flower-filled balconies give the area a relaxed, village feel, especially in the early morning when shopkeepers open their doors and the mountains begin to appear above the rooftops. It’s only a short walk from the busy center of Interlaken, yet the pace here feels completely different.
Everyone talks about paragliding over Interlaken, but the secret is where the pilots land: Höhematte Park. Beyond just a soft landing, this open meadow hosts local festivals, open-air yoga, and even summer opera rehearsals.
It’s the perfect spot to watch dozens of gliders drift down simultaneously. Kind of an unique experience for when you visit Interlaken.
One of the nicest terraces facing the landing field is Restaurant Taverne. From the outdoor tables you can enjoy lunch, coffee, or a glass of wine while watching colorful gliders drift down against the backdrop of the Jungfrau. On a busy summer afternoon you may see dozens of landings in a single hour.
Another good option nearby is Restaurant Des Alpes, which sits just across the park. The terrace gives a clear view of the field, and it’s an easy place to pause for coffee while the sky above Interlaken slowly fills with paragliders.
Travel tip: The most active time for paragliding is usually late morning through mid-afternoon, when thermals are strong and flights arrive steadily over the park. Sitting on a terrace beside Höhematte turns a simple coffee stop into one of the most entertaining views in town.
Get the inside scoop on the best things to do and see in Interlaken >>>
Interlaken has a surprising number of artisanal shops.
When you visit Interlaken, knowing how the two stations work can save you time and unnecessary backtracking.
This is the main transport hub for mountain travel.
Planning tip: If you’re heading into the Jungfrau region early in the morning, staying near Interlaken Ost saves time.
This station is closer to everyday town life.
Planning tip: If you want a quieter, more local feel, accommodation near Interlaken West often works well.
The two stations are only about 1.8 km apart.
This means you can easily stay near one station and still use the other for excursions.
That small bit of planning makes moving around Interlaken much easier once you arrive.
Interlaken’s microclimate means it can rain on one side of town and be sunny on the other. Stand on the bridges over the Aare River and watch the dramatic line of clouds separate Lake Thun from Lake Brienz. It’s perfect for photography or a dramatic coffee break at a riverside café.
Interlaken isn’t just a stopover for sky-high thrills. The town has quiet charm, hidden streets, secret viewpoints, and a surprisingly local rhythm. Small lakeside gardens, early morning market alleys, and uncrowded mountain ridges give you a perspective most visitors miss. Take the time to wander, pause, and notice the details—the old fountains, chestnut trees, and floating swans.
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The Aarburg is also a really nice choice when you’re looking for that ‘perfect coffee stop’ with a view.