Interlaken in January
Not the best time
January is for serious winter lovers who don't mind cold and limited activities. The town feels sleepy, but you'll have the stunning snowy landscape mostly to yourself.
Weather
January brings proper Alpine winter to Interlaken. Temperatures hover around freezing with frequent snow showers that dust the valley floor. The air is crisp and dry, though fog can settle between the lakes for days at a time.
2°C high-4°C low8 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$140/day average
Events & Festivals
- •New Year celebrations
- •Interlaken Winter Festival
January Tips
- •Pack serious winter gear - thermal layers are essential
- •Many mountain railways run limited schedules or close completely
- •Book accommodations early as many hotels close for renovation
All Months
Summer is peak season for good reason — June through September offers the most reliable weather for outdoor adventures. July and August see temperatures around 25°C, perfect for paragliding and lake swimming. But you'll share the trails with half of Europe, and hotel prices spike to their highest.
September is the sweet spot. The weather stays warm, autumn colors paint the mountainsides, and crowds thin out after school starts. You'll still have access to most mountain railways and hiking trails, but restaurant reservations become easier to snag.
Winter transforms Interlaken into a different beast entirely. The town becomes a base for skiing Grindelwald and Wengen, but many adventure activities shut down. If you're here for the slopes, book between December and March. Just know that some mountain railways run limited schedules, and lake activities are off the table.
Interlaken Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
9/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
10/10
Budget
3/10
Luxury
9/10
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