Interlaken: Your Gateway to Alpine Paradise!

If you’re dreaming of a place where turquoise lakes meet majestic mountains, and every view feels like a postcard, then look no further than Interlaken, Switzerland. We recently experienced this breathtaking destination firsthand, and trust us, it lives up to the hype!

Lake Brieneze, just outside our hotel

Our Lakeside Oasis: Seehotel Bönigen

We chose to stay at Seehotel Bönigen, and it was the perfect serene escape. Imagine waking up to peaceful views of the sparkling turquoise waters of Lake Brienz right outside your window. It’s a quiet, scenic spot that feels wonderfully immersed in nature, yet it’s just minutes away from the vibrant heart of Interlaken, making it an ideal base for both relaxation and exploration.

It’s just by Lake Brienze. It was surprisingly warm in mid-june, so we decided to take a swim in the lake.

Our Hotel - Seehotel Bönigen
Swimming in Lake Brienze

Unlock Free Adventures with the Interlaken Guest Card

One of the best perks of staying in Interlaken is receiving the free travel pass, also known as the Interlaken Guest Card. This incredible pass gives you unlimited rides on local buses and trains within the Interlaken area. Plus, it offers fantastic discounts (15–50%!) on mountain railways and popular activities like the Harder Kulm funicular. It’s a game-changer for saving money and exploring freely!

Bus Stop outside our hotel
The Bus Stop outside our Hotel
Maithili at Lake Brienze

Reaching New Heights at Harder Kulm

We absolutely had to visit Harder Kulm, often called the “Top of Interlaken.” The funicular railway ride up is an experience in itself, leading you to unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and the deep blue lakes below. While a regular ticket is CHF 44 per person for a round-trip, our guest card brought the price down to a palatable CHF 38. A quick tip for parents: if you’re traveling with a stroller, leave it at the base; you’ll definitely want a baby carrier for the funicular ride!

View of Thun See from Harder Kulm - Top of Interlaken

Step into a Fairytale at Iseltwald

For fans of “Crash Landing on You” or anyone seeking picturesque tranquility, Iseltwald is a must-see. This quiet lakeside village is where the iconic piano scene from the show was filmed, and let me tell you, the charming jetty and castle-like backdrop are even more stunning in person. Thanks to our travel pass, getting there by local bus was a breeze.

All countries should learn how to monetize tourism from Switzerland. This town charges CHF 5 for entry into the deck where Hyun Bin played the piano in Crash Landing on You.

Iseltwald
Deck where Hyun Bin Played the Piano in Crash Landing On You

A Stroll Through Höhematte Park & Bollywood History

Right in the center of Interlaken, you’ll find Höhematte Park, a beautiful green expanse surrounded by shops and incredible mountain vistas. It’s also home to the Yash Chopra statue, a touching tribute to the legendary filmmaker who played a huge role in making Switzerland a dream destination for Bollywood cinema. It’s a wonderful spot for a peaceful stroll and some fantastic photo opportunities.

Yash Chopra Statue
Yash Chopra Statue
View of Jungfrau from Interlaken
View of Jungfrau from Interlaken

Essential Tips for Your Interlaken Adventure

  • Food: Be prepared for meal costs averaging CHF 25–30 per person in Interlaken.

  • Water: Unlike some places, water isn’t typically free at restaurants. A glass of tap water can surprisingly cost around CHF 5 (roughly $6 or ₹540). Our top tip: carry a refillable water bottle! All public water sources and tap water in Switzerland are perfectly safe, taste great, and are a fantastic way to stay hydrated without breaking the bank.

Interlaken truly is a jewel in the Swiss Alps, offering a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and serene escapes. Start planning your trip – you won’t regret it!

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