What to do in Interlaken — a practical local guide to the best things to do in August and throughout summer, from paragliding and lakeside cruises to family friendly hikes and relaxed escapes.
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Quick answer: What to do in Interlaken
If you are wondering what to do in Interlaken, the short answer is this. Mix adventure and calm. Try tandem paragliding for spectacular aerial views, ride the funicular to Harder Kulm for panoramic scenery, take a boat on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, and use Interlaken as a base for day trips to Jungfraujoch and Lauterbrunnen. These options suit couples, families, solo travellers and remote working visitors alike. For families, caves and gentle boat trips are popular. For thrill seekers, canyoning, rafting and skydiving are available.
What to do in Interlaken in one glance
Interlaken sits between two lakes and below the towering peaks of the Bernese Alps. That location makes it ideal for a wide variety of activities, from high adrenaline sports to relaxed lakeside days and cultural excursions. Some of the highest value experiences include paragliding, Harder Kulm viewpoint, day trips to Jungfraujoch, boat cruises on Lake Thun, and visits to family friendly caves and waterfalls. For more detailed practical guidance refer to the Interlaken tourist pages.
Adventure activities for thrill seekers
Interlaken is well known for adventure sports and adrenaline experiences. If an action-packed day is your priority, then these are the most sought-after things to do in Interlaken.
Paragliding and tandem flights
Tandem paragliding is a signature Interlaken experience. You will fly with a trained pilot, often launching from Beatenberg or nearby slopes and landing in the town centre. The panoramas of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are remarkable and the activity is widely available throughout summer. Bookings are recommended early in August and during other peak periods.
White water rafting and canyoning
The nearby Lütschine river and other mountain gorges provide excellent canyoning and rafting options. Operators offer half day and full day trips with professional guides and safety equipment. These activities suit energetic travellers and older children with suitable confidence and swimming ability.
Skydiving and other high adrenaline experiences
If you want the ultimate thrill, look for skydiving packages in the Bernese Oberland. Availability is seasonal and prices are premium, so check dates and booking terms when you plan your trip.
Scenic viewpoints for lighter days
Not every highlight requires extreme effort. These locations give big views for modest time investment.
Harder Kulm
Harder Kulm is the local viewpoint easily reached by funicular in about ten minutes from Interlaken Ost. The viewing platform, known as the two lakes lookout, is famous for sweeping views of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks. Tickets and times are published by the regional rail operator and the Harder Kulm funicular. Plan a sunrise or late afternoon visit for softer light and smaller crowds.
Schynige Platte and panoramic ridge walks
The historic cogwheel railway to Schynige Platte brings you into classic Alpine ridge walking territory. Trails here range from short, family friendly walks to longer hikes for more experienced walkers. The wildflower meadows and mountain vistas are a good alternative to busy tourist routes.
Niederhorn and Brienz Rothorn
Both Niederhorn and Brienz Rothorn offer accessible alpine scenery and excellent photo opportunities. Cable car and cogwheel options make these peaks suitable for families and less experienced walkers.
Lakes and water activities for relaxed days
The lakes soften the adventure profile of Interlaken. Lake days are ideal for couples, families and anyone who prefers lower impact sightseeing.
Boat cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
Regular scheduled boat services run on both lakes and they are a calm and scenic way to see the shoreline villages and surrounding mountains. Combination offers that pair a lake cruise with a funicular ride can be time efficient if you are short on days. For up to date timetables and tickets consult the official lake cruise providers and the Interlaken tourism site.
Kayaking and stand up paddleboarding
For a touch more activity without too much strain, rent a kayak or a stand up paddleboard. The water colour on the lakes is striking and paddling gives you a unique perspective on the mountains.
Swimming and lakeside picnics
There are pleasant spots around both lakes for swimming and a simple picnic. Always check local signage for safety and recommended zones.
Culture, caves and family friendly options
Interlaken has a surprising selection of indoor and family approved activities.
St. Beatus Caves
On the Lake Thun shore, St. Beatus Caves feature illuminated cavern routes and waterfalls. The experience can be a cool and dramatic half day trip, and the cave complex has a museum and restaurant. Check seasonal opening hours before you travel.
Trümmelbach Falls and Lauterbrunnen valley
A short ride from Interlaken brings you to Lauterbrunnen and the valley of waterfalls. Trümmelbach Falls is inside the mountain and impressive for visitors of all ages.
Chocolate and food experiences
For indoor or rainy-day options, book a chocolate workshop or a cooking experience. These are particularly popular with families and groups.
Where to fit Jungfraujoch and other mountain day trips
If you are asking what to do in Interlaken and can spare a full day, plan a trip to Jungfraujoch, known as the Top of Europe. Trains and cable cars leave from the valley and passes such as the Jungfrau Travel Pass can lower costs for multi day travel. Check the Jungfrau Railways site for passes and the current special pricing for the Jungfraujoch connecting ticket.
Sample itineraries by traveller type
These short sample plans help users at different stages of intent, from browsing to ready to book.
1 day highlight itinerary
- Morning: Funicular to Harder Kulm.
- Late morning: Walk Höhematte and a quick town stroll.
- Afternoon: Short cruise on Lake Brienz or a gentle lakeside picnic.
This is ideal for visitors thinking about what to do in Interlaken during a day trip.
2 day active itinerary
- Day 1: Morning paragliding with a local operator, afternoon on Schynige Platte.
- Day 2: Day trip to Jungfraujoch or a full day canyoning.
This itinerary suits travellers comparing options and deciding what to book.
3 family weekend
- Day 1: St. Beatus Caves and boat cruise on Lake Thun.
- Day 2: Trümmelbach Falls and a gentle family hike or a chocolate workshop.
Use our activities page to book family friendly options and to ask about child rates. (internal link: /activities)
Seasonal planning: what to do in Interlaken in August and in summer
August represents high summer in Interlaken and the Bernese Oberland and it is a popular month for international travellers. Expect longer daylight hours and fuller booking calendars, particularly for paragliding and mountain rail attractions. Book key experiences such as paragliding and the Jungfraujoch in advance, especially for weekends in August. Consider midweek travel to avoid crowds and to find better availability for premium activities.
Packing tip
Even in August you should pack layers. Mountain tops will often be several degrees cooler than the valley and wind can be strong at altitude.
Practical tips and budgeting
Getting around without a car
Interlaken has well integrated public transport. Trains, buses and boats connect the primary attractions and most mountain access points. The Harder Kulm funicular runs from Interlaken Ost and is a quick way to reach the viewpoint. Check local timetables for seasonal changes.
Costs to expect
Adventure sports such as paragliding often carry a premium price. Mountain railways and funiculars are moderate, and family attractions such as cave visits are good value. Look for regional passes like the Jungfrau Travel Pass to save money if you plan multiple mountain trips.
Safety and weather
Check weather and operator cancellation policies for activities that depend on conditions. Choose experienced operators with documented safety records for high risk activities.
Accessibility and family planning
Interlaken offers many options that suit families and travellers with limited mobility. Funiculars, cogwheel railways and many lakeside activities are accessible. For visits to caves or rugged trails check the attraction pages for specific accessibility notes and recommended age ranges. St. Beatus Caves and other sites publish guidance for visitors.
Hidden gems and quieter options
If you want to avoid the most popular routes try early morning visits to popular sites. Walk smaller trails around Brienz, look for quiet viewpoints on the Niederhorn side, or explore lakeside villages such as Iseltwald and ring the small local markets on weekday mornings. Consult the Interlaken tourism calendar for smaller local events and artisan markets.
FAQs
What is Interlaken famous for?
Interlaken is known for its adventure sports, two lakes and access to the Bernese Alps, making it a hub for paragliding, hiking and mountain rail excursions.
Is Interlaken worth visiting in August?
Yes. August is a great time for summer activities and long daylight hours. Expect busier trails and book popular activities ahead.
How many days should I spend in Interlaken?
Two to four days is a useful range depending on whether you want to add day trips to Jungfraujoch or to nearby valleys such as Lauterbrunnen.
Are there free things to do in Interlaken?
Yes. Strolling Höhematte park, walking lakeside paths and viewing the panorama from some public viewpoints are free activities.
Conclusion
Interlaken delivers a mix of adrenaline, lakeside calm and stunning panoramas the best answer to what to do in Interlaken depends on whether you want action, relaxation or family fun.
If you’re ready to plan, we can help: book your room and activities together for the smoothest summer getaway.
Book your stay & activities now secure paragliding, lake cruises and family packages via our Activities & Bookings page or message us for a tailored itinerary at Contact Us.
