Interlaken is a dream destination, but staying right in the town center, or even in Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen, can be pricey—especially during peak season.
The good news? You can stay in nearby towns for lower prices and still enjoy
- easy access to Interlaken and the Jungfrau region.
- stunning views of nearby mountains and lake
And don’t stress about being “too far away from the center of everything”!
These alternative destinations offer a more affordable yet equally scenic stay thanks to Switzerland’s excellent public transport system and short drive times.
Here are six fantastic options to consider:
1. Wilderswil – The Perfect Base for Jungfrau Adventures
Just 4 km from Interlaken, Wilderswil is a charming village that serves as a gateway to the Jungfrau region.
It’s well-connected by train, making trips to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch easy. It is also the train station you catch the train up to Schynige Platte from!
Expect a peaceful setting, traditional Swiss chalets, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Why stay here?
✅ Short train ride (or 5-minute drive) to Interlaken
✅ Direct train access to Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald and Schynige Platte
✅ A quiet, authentic Swiss village experience
2. Beatenberg – Panoramic Views Above Lake Thun
Perched above Lake Thun, Beatenberg offers some of the best panoramic views of the Bernese Alps.
Though it’s slightly more remote, it’s just a 15-minute drive (or 30-minute bus ride) from Interlaken.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly option if you love nature, tranquility, and stunning sunsets.
Why stay here?
✅ Spectacular lake and mountain views
✅ Great for hiking and relaxation
✅ Less touristy, with a more local feel
3. Faulensee – A Hidden Gem by the Lake
Located on the shores of Lake Thun, Faulensee is a peaceful lakeside village about 15 minutes from Interlaken by car or 25 minutes by train and bus.
It’s ideal for travelers who want a quiet retreat with opportunities for lakeside walks, boat trips, and easy access to Spiez.
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Why stay here?
✅ Beautiful lakeside location
✅ Close to Spiez and its castle
✅ Relaxing atmosphere with fewer tourists
4. Brienz – A Lakeside Escape with a Traditional Swiss Feel
A picturesque village on the shores of Lake Brienz, Brienz is famous for its woodcarving tradition and breathtaking views. It is also the starting point for the Brienzer Rothorn (above) and a fantastic day on Lake Brienz.
It’s just a 20-minute train ride from Interlaken, making it a fantastic place to stay if you want a serene lakeside setting without being too far from major attractions.
Why stay here?
✅ Short train ride to Interlaken Ost (22 min)
✅ Close to the famous Brienzer Rothorn steam train
✅ Stunning lake views and charming streets
✅ A great base for visiting the Giessbach Waterfalls
5. Spiez – A Scenic Hub with Great Transport Links
Spiez, located on Lake Thun, is one of the best-connected alternatives near Interlaken. It has frequent train services to Interlaken, Bern, and Zermatt, making it a strategic base for exploring more of Switzerland.
Plus, the historic Spiez Castle and lakeside promenade add to its charm.
Why stay here?
✅ Excellent train connections (20 mins to Interlaken Ost)
✅ Beautiful lakeside town with a castle
✅ A good balance of affordability and convenience
6. Bönigen – Close to Interlaken but More Peaceful
Just 3 km from Interlaken, Bönigen offers a quiet lakeside alternative with quick access to the town.
It’s an ideal choice if you want to be close to the action while enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of Lake Brienz.
It is just down the road from Interlaken, so a great spot to be without all the hustle and bustle.
Why stay here?
✅ Very close to Interlaken (short bus or boat ride)
✅ Peaceful and scenic lakefront setting
✅ A great option for those who want the best of both worlds
Final Thoughts: Save Money Without Sacrificing the Experience
Staying just outside Interlaken in one of these nearby towns can save you money while still offering spectacular scenery and easy access to the region’s best attractions. Whether you prefer lakeside tranquility, mountain views, or excellent transport links, there’s an option for every traveler.
📍 Tip: Swiss public transport makes it incredibly easy to travel between these towns and Interlaken. Even if you don’t have a car, you’ll still have convenient access to everything the area has to offer!
Would you choose one of these alternatives? Let me know in the comments! 🚞🏔️
Let me know if you’d like any tweaks! 😊
Plan Your Trip to Switzerland
Accommodation: I always book my hotels via Booking.com. They have some of the best rates, longterm deals, easy cancellation and more 
Transport: Train travel is one of the best ways to explore Switzerland. Buying a Swiss Travel Pass is a great way to save money on travel and museums. 
Car Rental: Having a car gives you flexibility on your travels. I use RentalCars.com and Discover Cars to get the best deals on car rentals in Switzerland. 
Luggage Storage: Find out where you can store your store your luggage while you are visiting various places in Switzerland. 
Trips & Tours:Viator and Get Your Guide are the best places to find local tours and trips for your adventures in Switzerland. 
Packing: Here are my recommendations for what to pack for a trip to Switzerland. As someone who has lived half their life in Switzerland, I have a good idea of what you need to bring! 
