Interlaken Ost vs Interlaken West: How to choose

If you are trying to decide between the two train stations in Interlaken but can’t figure out which one is best, you are not alone.

There are two train stations right in Interlaken called Interlaken Ost (East) and Interlaken West. They are very close to one another. However, each has its advantages.

Below I will quickly outline the main differences and why you would choose one instead of the other.

Interlaken Ost and West locations
Interlaken Ost and West locations

Benefits of Interlaken Ost

Interlaken Ost is the starting point for all trains into the Jungfrau region. So, if you are heading to Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, or anywhere in between, this is where you will catch your train.

Many major trains also pass through Interlaken Ost, including trains from Zurich, Lucerne, Basel, and Bern. Trains heading to Meiringen or the Brunig Pass to Lucerne also start here.

Walking (10 minutes) or catching a train between the two stations is not difficult.

Interlaken Ost is also close to the dock for a boat trip on the Brienzersee and is within walking distance from Harder Kulm funicular station.

Hotels & Accommodation

Interlaken Ost has a lot of major hotels in the vicinity including:

  • Lindner Hotel Interlaken Beau Rivage
  • Hotel Royal St. Georges
  • Hotel Interlaken
  • Carlton – Europe Vintage Adults Hotel
  • Hotel Du Lac 
  • Interlaken Youth Hostel
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Restaurants & Amenities

There are fewer options down the Interlaken Ost end of town, but there are still services available, such as:

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  • Coop Supermarket
  • Large luggage storage at the train station
  • Various restaurants: India Village, 3a Lounge, Butt Gastro
Watch shop in Interlaken West
Watch shop in Interlaken West

Benefits of Interlaken West

Interlaken West is right in the heart of downtown Interlaken, so it is a better option for services and accommodation.

Connecting to the trains into the Jungfrau region (as mentioned above) is not difficult, as most trains pass through Interlaken West on the way to Interlaken Ost.

Staying in Interlaken West also gives you access to Unterseen, the beautiful old town area of Interlaken, which is quieter and more historic.

All of the major shops and restaurants and as lots of Airbnb’s and hotels are in this area, such as:

  • Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa
  • Merkur
  • Hotel Lötschberg
  • Hotel Metropole

Which Should You Choose?

Interlaken Ost is convenient for getting into the Jungfrau region and if you want to stay in one of the nearby hotels. However, there is not much going on around there regarding shops and restaurants.

If you want more choice of shops and restaurants, hotels and other accommodation, Interlaken West is the place to stay. It is easy enough to transfer or walk to Interlaken Ost to get into the mountains, so don’t let that stop you from staying there.

Written by Ashley Faulkes
As a twenty-year resident of Switzerland, I am passionate about exploring every nook and cranny of this beautiful country, I spend my days deep in the great Swiss outdoors, and love to share these experiences and insights with fellow travel enthusiasts.

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