Hotels in Interlaken

Interlaken: Where Majestic Peaks Embrace Serene Lakes

Nestled between the shimmering Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken, in the Canton of Bern, Switzerland, is a breathtaking haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, this charming town offers thrilling outdoor activities like paragliding and hiking, along with serene strolls through lush landscapes. Key attractions include the historic Interlaken Castle and the picturesque Aare River. With its vibrant atmosphere and stunning panoramas, Interlaken is the perfect gateway for those looking to explore Switzerland’s natural beauty and indulge in unforgettable experiences. For the best hotel rates in Interlaken, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Interlaken

Some of the best places to stay in Interlaken are Randogne and Monbijou. Randogne and Monbijou are both charming areas near Interlaken, offering stunning views and access to outdoor activities. Randogne is particularly appealing for first-time visitors due to its picturesque landscapes and tranquility. Accommodations in both areas range from stylish hotels to budget-friendly options, including hostels that provide comfortable stays. Travelers can find a mix of luxury and affordable hotels in Interlaken, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of their budget. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Interlaken:

1. RandogneOpens in a new window: Randogne is a picturesque location known for its skiing and outdoor activities, making it ideal for adventure seekers and families. With stunning views and proximity to attractions like the Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre and the Leukerbad-Therme hot springs, it’s a perfect getaway for those looking to unwind and explore. For accommodations, consider Villars PalaceOpens in a new window, a 5.5-star hotel providing adventure sports and family-friendly amenities, including a playground and an arcade game room. Another option is Crans AmbassadorOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that features easy access to ski lifts and various outdoor activities, with services like babysitting and supervised childcare. Lastly, Aïda Hôtel & Spa (Adults Only)Opens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, offers both adventure and golf experiences, catering to families with activities like hiking and rock climbing.
2. MonbijouOpens in a new window: Monbijou is an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers, featuring landmarks like the Federal Palace and Wankdorf Stadium. Its vibrant atmosphere, combined with business venues like Bern Expo, makes it a great choice for both leisure and business travelers. For lodging, Bellevue Palace HotelOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel with natural hot springs nearby, offering amenities geared towards business travelers. Another excellent choice is Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that provides ski access and various adventure activities, perfect for those looking to combine work with leisure. Lastly, Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & SpaOpens in a new window, a boutique-style 5.0-star hotel, offers unique decor and ample business facilities, ensuring a luxurious stay.

Things to do in Interlaken for first time

Interlaken is a stunning destination nestled between majestic mountains and serene lakes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and boating, while also taking in breathtaking views and exploring lush forests. With ample opportunities for sightseeing and shopping, a three-day stay captures the essence of this scenic paradise. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Interlaken:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lake Brienz, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by majestic mountains. Enjoy a leisurely morning walk along the shore or take a boat ride to soak in the breathtaking views. Next, visit Giessbach Falls, where you can hike the scenic trails that lead to the cascading waterfalls and perhaps grab lunch at the historic Giessbach Hotel. In the afternoon, make your way to the Brienz Ferry Terminal to catch a scenic ferry ride back, offering you a unique perspective of the landscape and an opportunity to relax on the water.
• Day 2: Start your day with a trip to Harder Kulm, where a funicular ride will elevate you to stunning panoramic views of Interlaken and the surrounding lakes. After taking in the sights, head to Unspunnen Castle, a picturesque ruin that offers insight into the local history. Spend your afternoon at the Tourist Museum, where you can learn about the cultural heritage of the region through various exhibits, ranging from traditional crafts to local history.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Lake Thun, perfect for a morning stroll or a relaxing boat ride. Next, visit the mesmerizing Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen, which plunges nearly 300 meters and is one of the highest waterfalls in Switzerland. Conclude your adventure with a trip to Jungfraujoch, known as the Top of Europe. Take a scenic train ride up to this breathtaking destination, where you can marvel at the Aletsch Glacier and enjoy stunning mountain views that will leave you in awe.

5 tips to find a great Interlaken hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Interlaken is during January, October, and November when hotel prices drop significantly. For a great value for money experience, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully explore the area's stunning attractions, including the breathtaking mountains and scenic lakes. This way, you can enjoy everything Interlaken has to offer while keeping your trip affordable.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Interlaken, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of scoring the best offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’ll stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you have every opportunity to save on your stay in this beautiful destination.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Interlaken.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in Interlaken is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trains, buses, and bicycles to explore the area while keeping costs more affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Interlaken. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Interlaken

Here are some top-rated dishes in Interlaken, Canton of Bern, Switzerland:

• Cheese Fondue: A quintessential Swiss dish, cheese fondue is a delightful experience where a pot of melted cheese, typically Gruyère and Emmental, is served alongside crusty bread. Diners dip pieces of bread into the warm, gooey cheese using long forks, making it a fun social meal. Traditionally enjoyed in a cozy setting, it's perfect for sharing with friends and family, enhancing the communal dining experience.
• Rösti: This crispy, golden potato dish is a Swiss classic, originally a breakfast staple for farmers. Made from grated potatoes, Rösti is pan-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It can be enjoyed plain or topped with ingredients like cheese, onions, or even an egg, making it a versatile comfort food that reflects local flavors and traditions.

Best time to go to Interlaken

Interlaken experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.8°F (-2.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 60.1°F (15.6°C). August is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Interlaken, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Interlaken Travel Information