The lakeside resort town of Interlaken is a true centerpiece of Switzerland, surrounded by an idyll of mountains and forests. One of the best ways to explore is by taking a day trip to Interlaken from Zürich, which gives you plenty of time to check out the main sights.

Stroll through the historic streets and admire the traditional timber houses or venture up the alpine slopes to soak up the views.

How to get to Interlaken from Zürich?

Interlaken enjoys a beautiful yet accessible position, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland region. It’s easy to visit from Zürich on a day trip by road, either independently or on a guided tour.

From Zürich to Interlaken by car

The journey from Zürich to Interlaken takes about 1.5 hours by car. Head south on the A4, before continuing on the A14 and A8 via Lucerne.

It’s a pretty drive, taking you alongside several lakes during the trip.

From Zürich to Interlaken by train

For a scenic ride, you can take the train from Zürich to Interlaken Ost, with just one change required at Lucerne. There are several departures daily and it takes around two hours.

Guided tour to Interlaken from Zürich

For a stress-free outing, an Interlaken day trip from Zürich is your best bet. You’ll be transferred by road by an expert local driver, with hotel pick-ups offered for a seamless door-to-door experience.

Enjoy time at leisure for independent sightseeing before being returned to Zürich.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Interlaken from Zürich?

You’ll set off from your hotel or designated meeting point in Zürich, ready for a day of adventure. Travel is by comfortable air-conditioned minivan. Admire the scenery as you drive through the Lucerne area, with lakeside views for much of the way.

On arrival in Interlaken, you will have free time to explore the city, with sightseeing, shopping, and hiking all up for grabs. Some tours then head off to other destinations, such as Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch.

After your day trip from Zürich to Interlaken, you will be dropped off at your original departure point.

What kind of tours are available to go to Interlaken?

When it comes to Interlaken excursions from Zürich, you have several options.

Guided tour to Interlaken plus Grindelwald or Schilthorn from Zürich

Day trips to Interlaken from Zürich usually include multiple destinations. The most popular tours take in either the mountain resort of Grindelwald or the Schilthorn cable car.

Explore without the hassle of public transport, and travel in a small-group setting to minimize costs.

Private tour to Interlaken plus Grindelwald or Jungfraujoch from Zürich

If you prefer to travel alone but want the benefits of a guide, then choose a private tour. Round-trip transfers in a luxury vehicle are included, or you can take the train if you prefer.

The itinerary can be tailored to your interests, with stops in Grindelwald or Jungfraujoch.

Rafting tour in Interlaken from Zürich

This adrenaline-filled day trip sees you white water rafting along an alpine river near Interlaken. Travel from Zürich is by coach, and you will enjoy free time in Interlaken too.

Remember to take swimwear and towels, as you will be getting wet!

Shuttle transfer to Interlaken from Zürich

Minibus shuttle transfers are ideal for travelers who don’t fancy tussling with public transport. The driver will wait while you explore the city, before taking you back to Zürich.

2-day tour to Interlaken plus other destinations from Zürich

These multi-day tours to Interlaken from Zürich give you a choice of other locations to visit, including Jungfraujoch, Lucerne, Bern, and Gruyères.

You will travel by minivan, with sightseeing time at each spot. Overnight accommodation in a 3* star hotel is included, as well as some activities.

3-day tour to Interlaken plus Geneva and Chamonix from Zürich

Take in Geneva and Chamonix on this 3-day trip to Interlaken and the local area. Highlights include the Jungfraujoch glacier, Schilthorn cable car, and seeing Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe.

Hotels can be booked as an add-on, or you can arrange accommodation independently.

How much does a tour to Interlaken from Zürich cost?

Shared Interlaken day trips from Zürich cost $103 with the Grindelwald extension, and $218 to include the Schilthorn cable car.

For a private day tour to Interlaken, expect to pay $691 or $794 to include Grindelwald or Jungfraujoch respectively. A guide and luxury vehicle are provided.

The rafting tour is priced at $237 including road transfers, safety gear, and a professional guide.

Shuttle transfers are $87 per person, with minibus transport and driver only.

2-day jaunts to Interlaken from Zürich start at $541. Hotels are included, but meals are not. The 3-day tour costs $593 without accommodation and $1025 with rooms provided.

What will you see and do in Interlaken?

Interlaken is a traditional mountain resort town tucked away in the famous Bernese Oberland. Sitting in a beautiful valley, sandwiched between mountains and lakes, Interlaken is an inviting settlement with lots to discover.

The Lakes

Interlaken lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, which are perfect for swimming during summer to cool off in the heat.

Lake cruises and sailing trips are up for grabs too so you can see the city and surrounding mountains from a different perspective.

Harder Kulm

Hiking is a popular pastime in Interlaken, with several trails snaking into the valleys and mountains around the city. There are routes suitable for all fitness levels, so you don’t have to be a hardy mountaineer to enjoy the fresh alpine air.

The local peak of Harder Kulm is a favorite jaunt, taking just 50 minutes to reach the summit. From here you’ll enjoy stunning panoramas out over Interlaken and the twin lakes, with the mountains in the background.

Outdoor adventures

Interlaken is known as the adventure capital of Switzerland. You can go canyoning or river rafting in the plunging valleys and feel the adrenaline during a bungee jumping or skydiving experience.

It is possible to enjoy these epic experiences on a day tour to Interlaken from Zürich, with rafting excursions being the most popular.

Shopping

The city of Interlaken is famed for its diverse shopping experiences, with everything from tasty regional produce to opulent jewelry and classic watches on offer. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs.

When is the best time to visit Interlaken?

The ultimate time for a day trip to Interlaken from Zürich is between June and August when the weather is pleasant and temperatures are warm. Some people prefer to visit during spring or fall to avoid the crowds.

Winter is cold but can be a beautiful time to explore with the snow-capped peaks looking at their finest.

Are there any tours to Interlaken from other cities in Switzerland?

Yes, there are day trips to Interlaken from Lucerne and tours departing in Interlaken.

Travel tips

We recommend booking your Interlaken day trip from Zürich online so you can search for the cheapest prices.
Make your reservation well in advance to avoid missing out – tours can often sell out in peak season.
Pack some sunblock and your sunglasses during summer to prevent burning in the midday heat.
Comfortable footwear that is suitable for walking along city pavements is advised.
Warm clothes and jackets are a must during winter in these mountain destinations.
Take a spare camera battery in case you run out of juice as you click away at all the sights.

Interlaken: Day Trips and Tours from Zürich