Travel tips · Interlaken · Switzerland
Interlaken travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Rectilinium, CC0
Quick answer
Interlaken has hosted visitors since the 19th century, and tourism shapes everything from the grand hotels on the Höheweg to the dense rail network. The surrounding Bernese Oberland remains farming country, with cows taken up to high pastures in early summer and brought down in autumn, often with decorated processions.
Key facts
- Language
- German (Swiss German)
- Currency
- CHF
- Plugs
- Type J sockets (Type C plugs also fit), 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water and most public fountains are drinkable; fill bottles before hikes.
- Emergency
- 112 (general), 144 ambulance, 1414 Rega air rescue
Things to know
- Say 'Grüezi' when entering shops and passing people on mountain trails.
- Close gates on hiking paths behind you and keep away from grazing cattle, especially cows with calves.
- Keep to marked trails and take your rubbish down with you.
- Be on time: trains, boats and cable cars leave on the minute.
- Respect quiet hours in villages and campsites after 10pm.
- Book Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe ahead: Seat reservations on the Jungfrau Railway are needed at busy times; book a day or two ahead in summer.
- Work out your excursions first, then compare the Swiss Travel Pass, Jungfrau Travel Pass and Half Fare Card; the right pass can save hundreds of francs.
Tipping
Service is included in Swiss prices. Rounding up or adding a few francs for good service is customary; larger tips are not expected.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Grüezi | Hello (Swiss German) |
| Merci vielmal | Thank you very much |
| Uf Widerluege | Goodbye |
| En Guete | Enjoy your meal |
What to wear
Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, sunglasses and sun cream for the mountains even in summer: Jungfraujoch can be below freezing in July.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type J sockets (Type C plugs also fit), 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water and most public fountains are drinkable; fill bottles before hikes.
- Emergency number
- 112 (general), 144 ambulance, 1414 Rega air rescue
- Phone and internet
- Mobile coverage is good on most trails and at summit stations; Switzerland is outside EU roaming rules, so check your plan or use a local or eSIM data package.
- Time zone
- Europe/Zurich
Interlaken is generally low-risk for visitors, with the main dangers coming from the mountains: sudden weather changes, altitude on high peaks and slippery trails. Use licensed operators for adventure sports and follow trail signs and weather warnings.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Switzerland's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Interlaken?
Service is included in Swiss prices. Rounding up or adding a few francs for good service is customary; larger tips are not expected.
+Can you drink the tap water in Interlaken?
Tap water and most public fountains are drinkable; fill bottles before hikes.
+What plugs are used in Interlaken?
Type J sockets (Type C plugs also fit), 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Interlaken?
German (Swiss German).