When to Visit Interlaken
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is proper winter in Interlaken, with temperatures hovering just above freezing during the day and dipping below at night. The town transforms into a winter sports hub, with excellent skiing conditions in the surrounding mountains. You'll find snow-covered landscapes and that crisp alpine air, though it's worth noting that some higher mountain passes and attractions might have limited hours.
February
February continues the winter pattern with cold temperatures and decent snow coverage, making it another solid month for skiing and snowboarding. Days are gradually getting longer, which is nice for maximizing mountain time. It's typically one of the drier winter months, though you'll still want to be prepared for snow and cold winds coming down from the peaks.
March
March marks the transition from winter to spring, with temperatures slowly climbing into the 50s°F during the day. You'll likely see a mix of weather—some snowy days, some sunny ones—as the season shifts. Lower elevation trails might start becoming accessible, though higher altitudes remain firmly in winter mode. It's actually a decent time to visit if you don't mind variable conditions and want to avoid peak season prices.
April
Spring is properly underway in April, with temperatures reaching into the upper 50s°F and the valley starting to green up nicely. That said, the mountains still hold plenty of snow at higher elevations, and you'll want layers since mornings can be quite chilly. This is shoulder season, so you'll find good deals and fewer tourists, though some mountain facilities might still be in their off-season closure period.
May
May is when Interlaken really starts to shine for outdoor activities, with temperatures climbing into the mid-60s°F and wildflowers beginning to bloom in the meadows. More hiking trails become accessible as snowmelt progresses, though high-altitude routes might still be snow-covered. Rainfall picks up noticeably this month, so you'll want a good rain jacket, but the longer days and spring scenery make it worth the occasional shower.
June
June brings proper summer weather with temperatures in the low 70s°F and most high-altitude trails finally clear of snow. The landscape is lush and green, waterfalls are running strong from snowmelt, and the days are long—perfect for maximizing your outdoor time. Crowds start building as summer vacation season begins, and you'll notice that rainfall continues to be fairly substantial, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms.
July
July is peak summer and peak tourist season, with the warmest temperatures of the year hovering around 75°F and all mountain facilities operating at full capacity. The weather is generally excellent for hiking, paragliding, and lake activities, though this is also the wettest month with frequent afternoon thunderstorms rolling through—they're usually brief but can be intense. Book accommodations well in advance as the town fills up with visitors from around the world.
August
August mirrors July in terms of weather—warm days in the mid-70s°F and substantial rainfall, particularly in the afternoons. It remains peak season with all the crowds and higher prices that entails, though the weather is typically reliable enough for most outdoor activities. The lakes are at their warmest now if you're interested in swimming, and the alpine scenery is at its summer best with green meadows and clear (between storms) mountain views.
September
September is arguably one of the best months to visit Interlaken, with comfortable temperatures in the mid-60s°F and noticeably fewer crowds as summer vacation ends. Rainfall drops off compared to the peak summer months, and you'll catch the early hints of autumn colors in the forests. Most mountain facilities remain open, and the weather tends to be more stable than in high summer, though you'll want to bring layers as evenings get cooler.
October
October brings autumn in earnest, with temperatures cooling to the mid-50s°F and the forests turning brilliant shades of gold and orange. It's a beautiful time for lower-elevation hikes and photography, though some higher mountain facilities start closing for the season. You'll find good deals on accommodations as tourist numbers drop, and the crisp air and fall colors make for a different but equally appealing experience compared to summer.
November
November is the quiet season in Interlaken, with temperatures dropping into the 40s°F and the town settling into a slower pace before winter sports season begins. The weather can be gray and damp, and many tourist facilities operate on reduced schedules or close entirely. That said, if you're looking for rock-bottom prices and don't mind limited options, you'll have the place largely to yourself—just don't expect much in terms of outdoor activities.
December
December ushers in winter proper, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night and snow beginning to accumulate in the mountains. The town takes on a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and holiday decorations, and ski season typically kicks off mid-month. Crowds pick up around the holidays, particularly during the Christmas and New Year period when prices spike considerably, but early December can still offer decent value.