Switzerland · tool
How much does Interlaken cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Interlaken trip before you book anything.
Interlaken, Switzerland travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a basic shared apartment.
Supermarket picnics, street food, and casual bakeries.
Local buses and walking; consider a regional pass for day trips.
Hiking, exploring the town, free viewpoints, or a single affordable excursion.
Souvenirs, small incidentals.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a private Airbnb.
Mix of casual restaurants and mid-range dining experiences.
Public transport, occasional taxis, or a portion of a Swiss Travel Pass.
Cable car rides, boat trips on Lake Thun or Brienz, guided tours.
Shopping, occasional treats.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Luxury hotel with lake or mountain views, or a high-end chalet.
Fine dining, tasting menus, gourmet experiences.
Private transfers, first-class train tickets, helicopter tours.
Private excursions, paragliding, spa treatments, exclusive mountain experiences.
High-end souvenirs, personal services.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass if you plan on extensive travel by train, bus, and boat, and visiting many museums. It can save significant money compared to individual tickets.
- •While credit cards are widely accepted, always carry some CHF for smaller purchases in remote villages or mountain huts.
- •Be aware that Switzerland is generally expensive. Activities like paragliding or scenic train rides can add up quickly.
- •Supermarkets like Coop and Migros offer a more affordable way to eat, especially for breakfast and lunch, by preparing your own picnics.
- •ATMs are readily available in Interlaken and larger towns; using ATMs affiliated with major Swiss banks usually offers competitive exchange rates.
Plan the rest of your Interlaken trip
Trip budgets elsewhere