train ride to Interlaken

Arrive relaxed: Why traveling by train is the best way to Interlaken

Switzerland is known for its impressive nature, mountains and efficient public transport. If you are planning your vacation in the Jungfrau region and choose Interlaken as the starting point for your adventures, you can look forward to a particularly stress-free and scenic journey. In this blog, you can find out why traveling by train is not only the easiest, but also the most beautiful way to reach Interlaken – regardless of whether you are arriving from Zurich, Geneva, Bern, Basel or directly from the airport.

Paragliding Interlaken Winter in Interlaken Switzerland
best Winter Paragliding in winter above Interlaken in Switzerland

Interlaken: the adventure capital of Europe

Interlaken is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and is known as the center for outdoor and adventure activities. Whether paragliding (you can find all the information about paragliding in winter here) over the valley with a view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, freefall skydiving against a breathtaking mountain backdrop( you can find the various skydive options here ), sledging, kayaking on Lake Brienz or snowshoeing in the Jungfrau region – Interlaken is the perfect place for active vacations in Switzerland. But what many people don’t know: Getting to Interlaken is easier, more comfortable and more picturesque than you might think – especially by train.

Train from Zurich to Interlaken
Easiest way to travel with the train from Zürich to Interlaken

Convenient and direct: by train to the heart of the Jungfrau region

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) offer excellent connections from all major Swiss cities to Interlaken (you can find out about the train connections here). If you land in Switzerland by plane, you can board the train directly from the airport and travel to the Jungfrau vacation region in comfort.

Direct connection from Zurich Airport to Interlaken

A direct train runs several times a day from Zurich Airport to Interlaken – without having to change trains! The journey takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes and takes you through beautiful landscapes, past lakes, hills and the first foothills of the Alps. There are also comfortable train connections from other airports such as Geneva, Basel or Bern with a maximum of one change. The punctuality and cleanliness of the trains in Switzerland ensure a pleasant and stress-free travel experience.

winter train ride to Interlaken
winter train ride to Interlaken

Travel with a view: the train journey as part of the vacation experience

Why drive through traffic jams, narrow mountain roads and slush when you can sit back on the train, read a book, listen to music or simply enjoy the view of the Swiss countryside? Especially in winter, when the roads are slippery or snow-covered, the train is not only the safer but also the more relaxing option.

On the way to Interlaken, the train travels along snow-covered, picturesque mountain panoramas, past turquoise-blue lakes, through small villages and over impressive viaducts. You can get in the mood for your vacation in the Jungfrau region while the Alpine panorama passes by outside. Tip: The route between Bern and Interlaken is one of the most beautiful railroad lines in Europe!

Train to Jungfraujoch the top of Europe near Interlaken
Train to Jungfraujoch the top of Europe near Interlaken

Interlaken: ideal starting point for day trips by train

It’s not just easy to get to Interlaken – you can also easily reach Switzerland’s most famous excursion destinations from there. The region has excellent public transport connections.

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

The train runs from Interlaken Ost via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald up to the Jungfraujoch at 3,454 m. You can reach Europe’s highest railroad station comfortably and conveniently all year round. There are always spectacular views of glaciers, mountains and alpine landscapes along the way. You can easily book your ticket online here.

Further highlights conveniently by train:

  • Thun and the castles on Lake Thun
  • Lauterbrunnen valley with its 72 waterfalls
  • Grindelwald First and the Bachalpsee
  • Mürren and the Via Ferrata via ferrata
  • Brienzer Rothorn and the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum

Whether you want to go hiking in summer or skiing in winter – the train keeps you flexible, comfortable and sustainable.

train in Interlaken - Train in Interlaken
train in Interlaken – Train in Interlaken

Sustainable travel: environmentally friendly travel in Switzerland

Traveling by train is not only convenient, but also environmentally friendly. Traveling by train reduces your carbon footprint and actively contributes to protecting Switzerland’s natural environment. Especially in a region like the Jungfrau region, which thrives on tourism and is committed to sustainable development, this is an important contribution.

Many hotels and accommodations in Interlaken also offer discounts or free pick-up services for guests arriving by train. It’s worth asking!

Travel tips for your train journey to Interlaken

  • Reserve a seat: Especially in the high season or at weekends, it is worth reserving a seat.
  • Swiss Travel Pass: Ideal for tourists – unlimited rail travel for several days including bus, boat and mountain railroads.
  • Use panoramic coaches: On some routes, such as Lucerne-Interlaken, trains run with special panoramic coaches.
  • Plan travel times: The SBB app or website provides real-time information about connections, delays and connecting trains.

Conclusion: Reaching Interlaken by train is stress-free, comfortable and scenically unique

Anyone planning a vacation in Switzerland should put Interlaken at the top of their list. The combination of breathtaking nature, adventure sports such as paragliding, skydiving or canyoning and perfect accessibility makes this place unique. Getting here by train is not only easy and direct, but also a real highlight in itself. Instead of battling through traffic and parking problems by car, you can travel relaxed from the very first moment and enjoy the spectacular views on the way to the Jungfrau region.

So leave the car behind, hop on the train – and make your journey to Interlaken part of the adventure.