Home › Interlaken › Where to stay
Where to stay in Interlaken
Interlaken is defined by its narrow strip of land sandwiched between Lakes Brienz and Thun, bisected by the Aare River. Most transit centers on the two main railway stations, Interlaken West and Interlaken East. Staying near these hubs is essential for travelers relying on trains for mountain excursions. The town itself is compact, meaning your base dictates proximity to transport links versus immediate access to lakefront promenades and quieter residential mountain views.
Interlaken West
This is the bustling commercial heart. It feels energetic and dense, filled with outdoor gear shops, cafes, and restaurants along Bahnhofstrasse. From here, you are steps away from the main boat dock for Lake Thun cruises and the primary train station. The walk to the Harderbahn funicular takes about fifteen minutes, making it a convenient launchpad for active itineraries.
Interlaken East
Interlaken Ost acts as the vital gateway to the mountains. The atmosphere here is quieter than the west side, focused on transit logistics and quick starts to the day. It is perfectly positioned for catching the early trains toward Jungfraujoch. Walkable sights include the serene Japanese Garden and the riverside paths leading toward the lake, providing a calmer, more utilitarian residential vibe.
Matten bei Interlaken
Located just south of the town center, Matten feels more like a traditional Swiss village. It is a fifteen-minute walk into central Interlaken, offering a quieter base with views of the surrounding peaks. The area is dominated by chalets and guesthouses. You are within easy reach of the Heimwehfluh funicular, which offers an excellent panoramic view of the valley without the peak crowds.
Rent a car in Interlaken
Compare rental cars from local and international companies, with free cancellation on most bookings.
Compare car rentals in InterlakenOne thing to think about
Avoid staying directly on the main thoroughfare between the two stations if you are a light sleeper; the heavy flow of tour buses and late-night revelers near the casinos can be disruptive. Additionally, skip high-priced hotels that promise 'mountain views' if they are obstructed by the town's dense commercial buildings.
Other places to stay in Switzerland: lastminute.com · Megabon
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Interlaken are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Top tours & activities in Interlaken
Common questions
Do I need a car to get around Interlaken?
No, a car is largely unnecessary. The regional train and bus network is exceptional, and most major mountain lifts are integrated into the transit system. Parking in the town center is expensive and often limited, whereas a Swiss Travel Pass makes navigating the train platforms and lake ferries effortless and significantly more relaxing.
Which lake is better for a day trip?
Lake Brienz is renowned for its striking turquoise color and peaceful, dramatic mountain walls, making it ideal for scenic boat trips. Lake Thun is larger, sunnier, and better suited for visiting historic castles like Schloss Oberhofen. If you have time, do both, but prioritize Brienz for photography and Thun for history and varied shoreline exploration.
Is Interlaken worth staying in for a full week?
Interlaken serves best as a central logistics base for day trips to the Jungfrau region rather than a destination for seven days of stationary exploration. If you enjoy hiking, paragliding, and varied mountain excursions, a week is great, but ensure you plan to move deeper into the valleys to escape the central town's tourist intensity.
Hotel links go to Booking.com. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.