City Local Transportation Guide for Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is well-connected by various public and private transportation options. Below is a structured guide to help you navigate the city efficiently.
1. Overview of Transportation in Interlaken
Interlaken has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trains, boats, taxis, and rental cars. However, there is no metro or tram in Interlaken. Most attractions are accessible by public transit, and the town is highly walkable.
2. Local Transportation Guide (Table Format)
| Mode of Transport | Availability | Major Routes & Coverage | Ticket Information | Travel Tips |
|------------------|--------------|--------------------------|--------------------|-------------|
| Train (Railway - BLS & SBB) | Frequent | Connects Interlaken Ost & Interlaken West to major Swiss cities and nearby attractions like Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald. | Swiss Travel Pass and Regional Pass Berner Oberland allow unlimited travel. | Best for scenic train rides to Jungfraujoch and the Bernese Oberland region. |
| Bus (PostBus & STI Buses) | Regular services | Covers local routes within Interlaken, nearby villages, and lakeside destinations. | Tickets available at stations, online, or via Swiss Travel Pass. | Free with Guest Card (provided by hotels). |
| Boat (Lake Thun & Lake Brienz) | Seasonal (Spring-Summer) | Cruises between Interlaken, Thun, Brienz, Spiez. | Swiss Travel Pass covers most boat rides. | Offers scenic views of the Alps and lakeside villages. |
| Car Rental | Available at train stations | Good for exploring remote alpine areas, but not necessary within the town. | Requires an international driving permit (for non-EU travelers). | Parking is expensive; public transport is more convenient. |
| Taxi & Ride-Hailing | Limited | Available at Interlaken West & Interlaken Ost stations. No Uber. | Metered fares; expensive for short distances. | Pre-booking recommended for long trips. |
| Bicycle & E-Bike Rental | Available | Various rental stations around Interlaken. | Prices vary by rental provider. | Ideal for exploring lakeside areas and short distances. |
| Walking | Highly recommended | Most of Interlaken is pedestrian-friendly. | Free | Best way to explore the city center, parks, and lakes. |
3. Recommended Travel Passes
Swiss Travel Pass – Covers unlimited trains, boats, and buses across Switzerland.
Regional Pass Berner Oberland – Ideal for Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and mountain excursions.
Interlaken Guest Card – Free with hotel stays, provides free bus rides and discounts on attractions.
4. Transportation Tips
- Train is the best way to travel to and from Interlaken, offering scenic journeys.
- Buses are free with the Guest Card (for hotel guests).
- Biking is popular in summer along the lakes and countryside.
- Taxis are expensive; use public transport instead.
- Driving is unnecessary within Interlaken but useful for countryside trips.
Interlaken is well-connected for both short city trips and alpine adventures.
