Which Town Is Best to Stay in for Travel in Switzerland?
Switzerland, though modest in size when observed on a map, reveals its grandeur once you set foot within its borders. Deciding where to establish your base can pose a delightful challenge, as the allure of exploration tugs you in every direction. So, which town is best to stay in for travel in Switzerland?
The challenge lies in the temptation to hop from one captivating corner to another, driven by the desire to soak in every facet of Switzerland's multifaceted beauty. The enchanting streets of Lucerne, the Alpine allure of Zermatt, the cosmopolitan charm of Zurich, and the tranquility of the Jungfrau region all beckon, each vying for your attention. This profusion of experiences is the very essence of Switzerland's allure, but it can also leave you grappling with the question of where to center your adventure.
However, within this sprawling country, I found my perfect base. Located within the heart of the Jungfrau region, I discovered my home away from home. The convenience of being based here made my trip go much more smoothly and allowed me to seamlessly travel to each destination I dreamed of visiting. Without further ado, let's dive into which town is best to stay in for travel in Switzerland.
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What Town to Stay in During a Trip to Switzerland
The choice of where to establish your base in Switzerland is an art in itself, requiring a balance between exploration and comfort. Amidst the symphony of options, Interlaken stood as the obvious choice for me.
Its location is not merely a spot on the map; it's a crossroads of experiences. Imagine a base where you awaken to Alpine vistas, only to embark on a day filled with diverse adventures without the need for constant suitcase repacking.
Interlaken's charm lies in its unparalleled connectivity. Day trips to neighboring gems like Lauterbrunnen, known as the "Valley of Waterfalls," offer a rendezvous with cascading beauty. Brienz, with its turquoise lake and artisanal woodcarving traditions, weaves history into your journey. Grindelwald, cradled by towering peaks, invites you to immerse yourself in the Alpine tapestry. This is only a sneak peek of a few of the towns you can easily travel to while based in Interlaken.
Larger cities like Bern and Lucerne also beckon with their cultural treasures, and with the Berner Oberland Pass, the journey is made even simpler for you, not requiring any extra tickets to be purchased to visit these enchanting towns. Learn more about this pass here!
So, which town is best to stay in for travel in Switzerland? Interlaken is my top recommendation, thanks to it being a gateway to various adventures and the home of affordable accommodation.
Is Interlaken Worth Staying In?
Yes, Interlaken is often considered well worth staying in for many travelers seeking a quintessential Swiss experience. Its unique location makes it a popular destination with a lot to offer. Here are some reasons why Interlaken is worth staying in:
Central Hub for Exploration: Interlaken's strategic position in the Bernese Oberland makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. You can easily take day trips to iconic places like Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe." These destinations offer stunning landscapes, alpine adventures, and picturesque villages.
Convenient Transportation: Interlaken's well-connected train and bus network allows you to access various towns, villages, and attractions with ease. You can explore the entire Bernese Oberland region using the efficient public transportation system.
Adventure Activities: Interlaken is renowned as a hub for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you're into paragliding, skydiving, bungee jumping, or water sports, there's an array of exhilarating activities available for adrenaline seekers. View my blog on paragliding in Interlaken here.
Scenic Beauty: The breathtaking scenery surrounding Interlaken is a major draw. With the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks as a backdrop and the pristine lakes reflecting the Alpine beauty, the landscapes are a treat for the eyes and a paradise for nature lovers.
Cultural Experiences: Interlaken itself offers a blend of Swiss culture and international flair. You can indulge in Swiss cuisine, shop for local crafts, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the region.
Diverse Accommodation Options: From luxury hotels to cozy chalets and budget-friendly hostels, Interlaken offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Berner Oberland Pass: The Berner Oberland Pass offers convenience and savings by covering public transportation and certain mountain excursions. This pass enhances your exploration of the region, making Interlaken an even more appealing place to stay. Check out my blog on this pass for additional information!
Gateway to Larger Cities: Interlaken's proximity to cities like Bern and Lucerne makes it possible to embark on day trips to experience urban Swiss culture and history.
Ultimately, whether Interlaken is worth staying in depends on your travel interests and preferences. If you're captivated by Alpine landscapes, adventure, and a central location for exploration, Interlaken is likely to offer you an unforgettable Swiss experience. However, if you're wanting to include further towns like Zermatt in your itinerary, you'll have to base yourself elsewhere for a night or two. I was able to base myself in Interlaken for a total of 6 nights, which enabled me to see everything on my bucket list and save time and money.
How Many Days in Interlaken Is Enough?
During my solo trip, I spent a total of six nights in Interlaken, though I dedicated just one day to exploring the town itself. The beauty of staying in Interlaken lies in its strategic location, allowing you to use it as a base for venturing into nearby towns without constantly changing accommodations.
While Interlaken offers its own charms and was easily the best place to be based during my travels to Switzerland, I found that the real magic unfolded when I set out on day trips to surrounding gems like Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Wengen. These places, each with their unique Alpine allure, held my attention and curiosity, and spending more time in them truly enhanced my Swiss experience. I discovered that the essence of staying in Interlaken is to utilize it as a comfortable hub while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of nearby towns, engaging in their local culture, exploring their trails, and admiring their natural wonders. As you plan your trip, I'd advocate for allocating ample time in the towns you'll be visiting during the day, allowing you to savor the essence of each destination while appreciating Interlaken for its convenience and accessibility.
Best Place to Stay in Interlaken for Budget Travelers
For budget travelers seeking an unforgettable Swiss experience, Balmer’s Hostel emerges as the ultimate haven in Interlaken and the best place to be based for solo travel in Switzerland. This charming establishment not only offers a place to rest but also embodies the essence of Swiss hospitality, making it a magnet for social explorers from all corners of the world. Read my full blog on affordable hostels in Interlaken here.
Click here for more information about Balmers Hostel!
Balmer's Hostel welcomes guests with its warm ambiance and the promise of connecting with fellow adventurers. It stands as a testament to the idea that a hostel is not just a place to lay your head; it's a hub of shared experiences and vibrant stories waiting to be woven.
At Balmer's, social interaction is a priority, and the offerings reflect this ethos. A dart room beckons friendly competitions, while an inviting outdoor bar and garden area set the stage for laughter-filled conversations against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps. The underground bar provides a setting for late-night gatherings and dancing. A hammock room provides a relaxing setting for travelers to unwind after a long day of adventure.
What truly sets Balmer's Hostel apart is its ingenious design that fosters connections. Countless rooms are crafted with the sole purpose of facilitating interaction. From cozy common areas to communal kitchens, every corner is an invitation to engage with fellow travelers. The atmosphere is electric with stories, cultures, and friendships intertwining seamlessly.
Whether you're a solo traveler seeking companionship, a budget-conscious explorer, or simply someone intrigued by the idea of forging connections, Balmer's Hostel encapsulates the essence of communal travel. However, make sure to book your stay early, as the hostel often gets completely booked out!
View pricing and availability here.
What to Do in Interlaken
When exploring Interlaken, a world of adventure and awe awaits, and two experiences that stand out are the Harder Kulm and paragliding in this picturesque Swiss haven.
Harder Kulm
For panoramic vistas that leave you breathless, a journey to Harder Kulm is a must. This mountaintop viewpoint offers a sweeping spectacle of the surrounding landscapes. A funicular ride to the summit adds an element of anticipation to your ascent. Once at the top, the stunning beauty of Interlaken and its twin lakes unveils itself in all its glory. It's a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts, and the iconic "Two Lakes Bridge" offers a thrilling vantage point to take in the stunning alpine panorama.
Paragliding in Interlaken
If you're seeking an adrenaline rush and an unparalleled bird's-eye view, paragliding over Interlaken is an experience like no other. Soaring above the picturesque landscapes, you'll catch glimpses of serene lakes, charming villages, and the majestic Alps. The sense of freedom as you glide through the air is matched only by the jaw-dropping beauty that unfolds beneath you. It's a daring adventure that is sure to be an unforgettable highlight of your Interlaken journey.
Book your tour with Paragliding Interlaken here!
Interlaken's allure doesn't stop with these two experiences – it's a gateway to a plethora of day trips and adventures. Whether you're drawn to exploring nearby towns like Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, embarking on scenic train rides, or discovering the cultural treasures of Bern and Lucerne, Interlaken serves as the perfect base. For a detailed itinerary that encapsulates the ultimate solo trip to Switzerland in summer, I invite you to read this blog for inspiration!
In conclusion, the town I found best to stay in for travel in Switzerland was none other than Interlaken. Its strategic location, offering unparalleled access to nearby towns and iconic Swiss experiences, coupled with its unique blend of adventure and charm, made it a perfect hub for my exploration. It was a base that not only provided convenience but also connected me with fellow travelers that I quickly grew close with.
