Family outings in Interlaken
Interlaken sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the peaks of the Bernese Oberland as a backdrop. For families, nature is the star: mountain trains, boats, waterfalls and easy trails. The town is a good base, with departures to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald or the lakes. Summer is ideal for high-altitude outings; in winter some activities pause, but the scenery stays superb. The weather changes fast in the mountains, so pack warm layers and a raincoat, even in July. Swiss trains and boats run on time, which makes days out with children much easier and less stressful.
Must-do activities
Harder Kulm
A funicular leads to a lookout over both lakes and the peaks. Kids enjoy the panoramic platform; bring warm clothes.
Höhematte
The big lawn in the heart of Interlaken, with mountains behind. Free, perfect for a picnic and letting kids run.
Boat Cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz
A classic or modern boat glides below the mountains; kids love the deck. A gentle, effortless outing, with stops of your choice.
Alpenwildpark Interlaken-Harder
A mountain wildlife park with ibex, chamois, marmots and lynx, at the foot of the Harder. A shady, easy family walk.
Lauterbrunnen Valley
About 20 minutes by train, a valley of cliffs and waterfalls, including the Staubbach, visible from the village. Flat paths suit strollers.
Giessbach Falls
Tiered waterfalls on the north shore of Lake Brienz, reached by funicular or on foot. A spectacular site with built paths.
Free parks and playgrounds near Interlaken
- 🌳 Schlosspark
- 💦 Bödelibad Interlaken
- 📚 Bödeli Bibliothek
- 🛝 Spielplatz Auf dem Graben
- 🏖️ Dr. H. Spreng-Bucht
- 🌳 Höhematte
- 💦 Strandbad Bönigen
- 🛝 Spielplatz Schulanlage Steindler
- 🏖️ Sundlauenen Beach
- 🌳 Japanischer Garten
- 💦 Panorama Bad Beatenberg
- 📚 Bibliothek Spiez
Making the most of Interlaken as a family
Whether you live in Interlaken or are just visiting for the weekend, there is no shortage of family outings: parks, playgrounds, libraries, museums and seasonal events are often free or low cost. FamiSwipe gathers these ideas in one place so you can stop searching.
To choose well, think about your children's ages, the weather and the travel time. A park with a splash pad suits hot days, while a library or community centre saves rainy or freezing ones. Pack a snack, water and a change of clothes.
Tip: swipe through the suggestions in the app, keep your favourites and share the shortlist with the other parent. Free activities are perfect for trying something new without pressure, and short trips close to home spare everyone a long car ride.
Bookable activities in Interlaken
Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Interlaken, often with free cancellation.
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Family outings not to miss
→ Discover activities in Interlaken on FamiSwipe
FAQ
What can kids do in Interlaken when it rains?
Regional museums, thermal baths and some covered caves or gorges are options. A lake cruise is still possible under a grey sky.
What are the free family activities in Interlaken?
The Höhematte, the Aare banks, lakeside walks and the Harder wildlife park are classics. FamiSwipe shows parks and playgrounds around you with the real distance.
What can families do in Interlaken in winter?
Nearby resorts offer sledding and beginner skiing, and mountain trains keep running. Check in advance which sites are operating; some close off-season.
Is the Jungfraujoch a good idea with young kids?
It's spectacular, but the day is long and at altitude. With children under 6, a lower excursion such as the Harder or Lauterbrunnen is easier.