Transportation in Interlaken

Getting Around Interlaken Interlaken is one of Switzerland's most accessible resort towns, largely because it sits at the heart of the Swiss rail network. The town has two main train stations — Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost (East) — connected by a short rail line that runs between them. Most trains from Bern and beyond arrive at West first, then continue to Ost, which is the departure point for mountain railways heading up into the Bernese Oberland. First-time visitors often miss this distinction: if you're heading to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, or the Jungfraujoch, you want Interlaken Ost, not West. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) handles the main intercity connections, and the Swiss Travel Pass covers a broad range of trains, boats, and buses in the region — worth considering if you plan to explore beyond the town itself. Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, which flank Interlaken on either side, are served by scheduled boat services that double as a genuinely scenic transport option rather than just a tourist activity. Local buses connect the main areas of town, though the compact center is very walkable. For airport access, Zürich Airport is the primary international gateway; the train connection via Bern is generally the most straightforward option, with service running throughout the day. Bern Airport is closer but serves far fewer international routes — check whether your airline flies there before assuming it's more convenient. Avoid booking private transfers unless you have significant luggage or mobility needs; the rail connection is reliable and typically more economical. Check the SBB app or website for current timetables and booking.