Interlaken in 2 Days for Families - Panoramic family-friendly lookout at Harder Kulm
A relaxed, kid-focused 2-day plan in Interlaken (July, summer). Short transfers, stroller-friendly options, plenty of breaks and local tips for families with young children. Suitable for families with children ~2–12 years (notes added where age or mobility matters).
Highlights
- Panoramic family-friendly lookout at Harder Kulm
- Summer boat cruise on Lake Brienz to Giessbach Falls
- Heimwehfluh funicular, playground and summer toboggan
- Large green lawns and easy stroller routes at Höhematte Park
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival, easy local exploration and a late-afternoon ride up Harder Kulm for views. Plenty of time for naps and snacks.
Check in at a family-friendly hotel
Settle into your room, drop luggage, request a crib or extra towels if needed. Choose a quiet room facing the garden or river for easier naps.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask reception at check-in for a quiet room away from the main street (Höheweg can be lively) and for a travel crib — hotels like this usually keep a few on hand.
- If arriving before room readiness, the hotel (or concierge) will usually store luggage and let you use toilets/changing table facilities so kids can nap in the stroller.
- Confirm elevator and stroller storage space if you plan to leave a stroller while doing the Harder Kulm trip to avoid carrying it on steep paths.
Casual family lunch at the hotel restaurant
A short sit-down to refuel after arrival — hotel restaurants are useful for high-chairs, familiar kids' dishes and allergy requests.
Tips from local experts:
- Order simple, child-friendly mains (pasta, chicken, mashed potato) and ask staff for smaller portions if there's no kids' menu.
- Ask about allergy-aware preparation — the hotel kitchen is used to accommodating nut/dairy requests if you mention them when ordering.
- Sit near the window or a corner so kids can nap without disturbance; ask staff to dim lights if a nap starts mid-meal.
Stroll and play at Höhematte Park (Höheweg)
Large lawns, open space for toddlers to run, and a small playground. Great for a gentle post-lunch walk and watching paragliders land nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- The main paths through Höhematte are paved and stroller-friendly — keep the stroller on paved paths and use the grass only when supervising a toddler.
- Bring a lightweight picnic blanket: shade is limited in parts; there are public toilets and changing facilities close to the Tourist Information building.
- Kids love watching paragliders land on the lawn — stand at the western edge of the park (closer to the Aare) for good views without being in the landing zone.
Quick snack and restroom break (supermarket stop)
Grab drinks, wet wipes, extra sunblock or small snacks for kids before the Harder Kulm outing.
Tips from local experts:
- Use Migros to quickly pick up familiar snacks (fruit pouches, yogurt) and spare nappies; it’s just a short walk from Höhematte and has clean restrooms.
- Buy reusable water bottles — tap water is safe and free refills keep kids hydrated during the funicular trip.
- If a child needs a quiet 10–20 minute rest, the supermarket benches by the exit are usually calm.
Funicular to Harder Kulm — viewpoint and short family hike
Short funicular ride to Harder Kulm for sweeping views over Interlaken and the two lakes. The panorama platform and restaurant have space for families.
Tips from local experts:
- The Harderbahn funicular accepts most strollers folded or small ones unfolded — there’s a small step to board; ask staff to assist with boarding.
- Schedule the ride ~1–1.5 hours before sunset (in July) for warm light and fewer crowds; children aged ~3+ particularly enjoy the open panorama and short easy paths.
- The Panorama Restaurant has a kids’ menu and high chairs; indoor seating is quieter if a child needs to nap in a stroller or on a lap.
Early family dinner in town
Return to Interlaken for a relaxed early dinner — aim for an early seating to suit children's bedtimes.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a table away from the kitchen to reduce noise; call ahead if you need a high chair or want a children’s plate ready.
- Ask staff for milder spice levels and plain sides (rice, potatoes, steamed veggies) if your kids are picky eaters.
- If children are tired, ask for takeaway packaging — many restaurants will box up part of your meal so kids can eat back at the hotel.
Day 2
Lake Brienz boat trip to Giessbach Falls in the morning, relaxed lunch with views, then a playful afternoon at Heimwehfluh (funicular + summer toboggan).
Breakfast at the hotel (family-friendly buffet)
Early breakfast so kids are energized for the boat trip — request a packed snack box if you want to eat on the boat.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a small takeaway box with fruit, crackers and water if your boat departs early — this avoids queuing onboard for snacks.
- Choose seats near the hot-drink station for quick refills and warmer drinks for toddlers; request boiled water if you need to prepare formula.
- If you need to stretch before boarding, check the hotel lobby for a small play corner or quiet hallway to walk laps with infants in strollers.
Summer boat cruise on Lake Brienz (Interlaken Ost → Giessbach Falls)
Scenic 90–150 minute summer boat ride on Lake Brienz. Boats have indoor seating, restrooms, and open decks for viewing — great for children who like water and wide-open views.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early at Interlaken Ost pier to choose front-row seats on the upper deck (best for photos) and a spot near the restrooms.
- Strollers can be brought on board (fold if requested) — keep a small day bag with nappies/wipes easily accessible since restroom stops are limited.
- Bring a light jacket for kids — wind on the deck can be cool even on sunny July days; sunscreen and hats are recommended for all ages.
Explore Giessbach Falls and lunch at Grandhotel Giessbach
Short walks to viewing platforms at the falls and a relaxed lunch on the hotel's terrace with lake views. The hotel terrace is spacious and stroller-accessible to a degree.
Tips from local experts:
- The main terrace and restaurant at Grandhotel Giessbach are stroller-friendly; if you want to explore the waterfall steps, bring a carrier for younger toddlers — many paths have steps.
- Order child-friendly menu items at the hotel café (sandwiches, soup, pasta) and check for nut-free options if needed — staff are used to family requests.
- There are sheltered picnic benches near the hotel if a child needs to run around; staff can point out the easiest path back to the pier for boat timing.
Return boat to Interlaken Ost
Relaxed return trip with opportunities for a nap on board and final lake views.
Tips from local experts:
- Check the boat schedules on arrival — summer boats run several services, but boarding the earlier return avoids late-afternoon crowds.
- Use the return trip as quiet time: dim screens or play soft music to encourage napping after a busy morning.
- Bring small motion-sickness remedies if your child is prone to it; the lake is usually calm but the combination of sun and movement can affect some kids.
Heimwehfluh funicular, play area & summer toboggan
Short funicular ride to a family-friendly hilltop with a playground, wooden train, and a summer toboggan run. Perfect for energetic kids (and parents).
Tips from local experts:
- The Heimwehfluh funicular has a small step; staff will help load strollers. Paths at the top are compact and mostly stroller-friendly to the playground area.
- The summer toboggan run usually has minimum height/age rules (often recommended ages 3+ when accompanied). Bring a change of clothes — younger kids sometimes get dusty or wet.
- There are picnic benches and shady areas at the top; use the small kiosk for ice cream and ask about allergen info before ordering.
Leisurely stroll and light shopping in Unterseen old town
Cobblestone streets with small shops and ice-cream stands. Good for a final snack, last-minute souvenirs, and a calm wind-down before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Cobblestones are uneven — use a stroller with larger wheels or fold it and switch to a carrier for short stretches to avoid jostling toddlers.
- Stop at a local gelateria for a scoop — many shops offer lactose-free or fruit sorbets as allergy-friendly alternatives.
- Visit a family-friendly toy or souvenir shop (small wooden toys) that often have helpful staff who can wrap purchases for safe travel home.
Return to hotel, pack and check out / departure
Collect luggage, use hotel amenities one last time (toilet / changing table) and head to your next destination.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the hotel for luggage assistance to the station or car — many hotels will call a taxi and offer a luggage cart to make departure smoother with kids.
- Use the hotel restrooms for a final change of clothes and to pack formula/food easily before carrying luggage to transport.
- If you have time before your onward travel, request a short late check-out or luggage hold so children can rest in the lobby area without being rushed.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 11 |
| Total Places | 11 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Restaurant, Neighborhood, Break, Attraction, Meal, Experience, Transfer |
