Interlaken City Guide

Local dishes like fondue and raclette are popular. Good international options exist. Vegetarian and vegan food is available. Late-night dining is limited.

Modest nightlife with bars and hotel lounges, more relaxed than lively.

Good mix of traditional and some specialty coffee shops. Few roasters or coffee events.

Tipping is optional; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated but not required.

SIM cards sold at Swisscom, Sunrise, Salt stores. eSIMs available. ID or passport needed for registration.

Very clean streets and efficient waste management.

Few 24/7 services. Some late-night pharmacies and convenience stores at stations. Emergency hospital services are 24/7.

Supermarkets offer good international products. Coop and Migros are main chains, open roughly 8 AM to 7 PM weekdays and Saturdays. Most shops close Sundays and holidays.

Cards are widely accepted, but cash might help for small purchases or local markets.

ATMs are common near banks and shopping areas. Fees may apply depending on your bank.

Local schools teach in German. International schools are limited nearby; bigger cities like Bern offer choices.

Small nomad presence, mainly tourism-focused. Few meetups or co-living options. Some cafes offer Wi-Fi for work.

Plenty of parks and green areas along the river and lakes with shaded walking spots.

Many scenic and safe running routes by the river, lakes, and parks, supported by local running groups.

Gyms are available including hotel spas accessible to non-guests.

Tennis courts at clubs and hotels with booking required; padel less common.

Limited availability, mostly at larger sports centers or clubs.

A few yoga studios offer classes with common styles and some English-speaking instructors.

Some local clubs offer martial arts like Judo and Karate. Specialized disciplines are limited.

Access to Jungfrau ski resorts within 30-60 minutes by public transport. Season runs mid-Dec to April with good snow quality and mixed terrain.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on the lakes. Equipment rentals and guided tours offered May to September.

No ocean surfing; river surfing possible elsewhere in Switzerland but not here.

Freshwater diving in lakes with clear water. Beginners and advanced sites available, with summer as best season.

High-quality healthcare with English-speaking staff at Spital Interlaken. Pharmacies common and helpful. Excellent standards in public and private care.

Tap water is safe and of excellent quality.

Good family facilities include playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and attractions like Jungfraujoch and boat trips.

Generally welcoming and safe with good legal protections. Pride events happen mainly in larger cities.

Pet-friendly town with accommodations, vets, dog parks, and many walking trails. Regulations apply for pet entry.