Interlaken Ost Railway Station

Interlaken Ost Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Interlaken Ost Railway Station is the principal gateway to Switzerland’s magnificent Bernese Oberland and the renowned Jungfrau region. Far more than a mere transit point, Interlaken Ost boasts a rich history intertwined with the rise of alpine tourism. Its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and excellent connectivity make it an essential stop for travelers exploring the Swiss Alps. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about visiting hours, ticketing, station amenities, accessibility, travel tips, and the best nearby attractions to help you maximize your Swiss adventure.

Introduction
Historical Background and Development
Visiting Interlaken Ost: Essential Information
Station Layout and Facilities
Regional Integration and Nearby Attractions
FAQs
Visuals and Media Resources
Conclusion and Recommendations
References

Historical Background and Development

Origins and Early Growth

Established in the late 19th century, Interlaken Ost emerged as a vital link connecting remote alpine communities with major Swiss cities and tourist destinations. The original Bödelibahn line from Därligen (Lake Thun) to Interlaken laid the foundation, followed by the Brünig railway to Lucerne in 1888. The station’s location—and its later expansion to accommodate the Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB) in 1890—transformed Interlaken Ost into a major interchange for journeys deeper into the Alps (switzerlanding.com).

Expansion and Modernization

The early 20th century saw rapid development. Interlaken Ost became the departure point for several regional and long-distance lines, including routes to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Lucerne. Continuous upgrades have equipped the station with modern facilities, digital information systems, and seamless integration with bus, boat, and funicular services (swisstours.com, trainstation.world).

Role in Alpine Tourism

The station’s growth paralleled the rise of Interlaken as a world-class tourist destination. Grand hotels, resorts, and adventure opportunities flourished, positioning Interlaken Ost as the hub for excursions to Jungfraujoch, Schynige Platte, Harder Kulm, and more (traveltriangle.com).

Strategic Connectivity and Local Impact

Interlaken Ost remains the main terminus for trains from Zurich, Lucerne, Basel, and Bern, and is the starting point for iconic mountain routes. Its presence has fueled the local economy, influencing the urban structure and boosting hospitality, retail, and transport sectors (switzerlanding.com, swisstours.com).

Visiting Interlaken Ost: Essential Information

Visiting Hours

Station Building: Open daily, generally from 5:00 AM to midnight.
Ticket Counters: Typically open from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
Automated Ticket Machines: Available 24/7.
Waiting Areas & Facilities: Operate during station hours.

For the most current information, check official notices or the SBB website.

Ticketing and Booking

At the Station: Purchase at ticket counters during opening hours or use self-service machines.
Online: Book via SBB or the Jungfrau Railways website.
Popular Passes: Swiss Travel Pass, Bernese Oberland Pass, and Jungfrau Travel Pass offer flexible travel options.
Jungfraujoch Tickets: Advance booking highly recommended during peak seasons.
Seat Reservations: Not mandatory for most trains; required for the Jungfraujoch segment (CHF 10 fee).

Accessibility Features

Step-Free Access: Elevators and ramps across all platforms.
Tactile Guidance: For visually impaired travelers.
Accessible Restrooms and Assistance: Available upon request, with staff support during station hours.
Digital Displays and Audio Announcements: Available in multiple languages (SBB official).

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for full access to mountain railways and cruises; winter for skiing.
Transfers: Short, scenic walk (about 10 minutes) or frequent shuttle trains connect Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West.
Luggage: Lockers and left-luggage services are available (lockers close at 18:30).
Currency: Swiss francs preferred; major credit cards and euros accepted.
Safety: The station is secure, with regular patrols and CCTV.

Station Layout and Facilities

Platforms and Track Division

Eight platform tracks serve three lines: standard-gauge Thunersee line, metre-gauge Brünig line (Zentralbahn), and Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB).
Clear multilingual signage (German, English, French) and digital displays.
Subway connects all platforms with ramps and elevators (trainstation.world, showmethejourney.com).

Key Facilities

Ticketing and Information: Numbered queue system, travelcard services.
Luggage Services: Secure lockers (closed after 18:30), Lost & Found, and flight luggage dispatch to Zurich Airport.
Shops & Dining: Bakeries, cafes, souvenir shops, and convenience stores (switzerlandical.com).
Restrooms & Wi-Fi: Clean, accessible facilities and free public Wi-Fi.
Parking & Mobility: P+Rail parking, car-sharing (Mobility), and secure bike racks.

Onward Connections

Bus Terminal: Adjacent, for local and regional routes (wikipedia).
Lake Brienz Shipping Quay: Steps away for scenic cruises (switzerlandical.com).
Harderbahn Funicular: 5-minute walk to the Harder Kulm valley station (showmethejourney.com).

Regional Integration and Nearby Attractions

Interlaken Ost is the springboard to the Bernese Oberland’s top destinations:

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: Start your journey here via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald. Advance booking recommended (swisstours.com).
Harder Kulm: A short walk and funicular ride to panoramic views.
Lake Brienz Cruises: Boats depart from the adjacent quay for scenic excursions.
Schynige Platte: Connect via train to Wilderswil, then take the historic cogwheel railway (traveltriangle.com).
Historic Interlaken Town Center: Explore shops, cafes, and the iconic Höheweg promenade.
Adventure Sports: Paragliding, canyoning, and skydiving providers are nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours of Interlaken Ost?
A: The station operates from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight; ticket counters are open from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: At ticket counters, self-service machines, or online via SBB and Jungfrau Railways.

Q: Is the station accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, tactile guidance, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.

Q: Are there luggage storage options?
A: Yes, secure lockers are available (until 18:30) and left-luggage services.

Q: Can I check-in luggage for flights?
A: Yes, flight luggage dispatch to Zurich Airport is offered at the station.

Visuals and Media Resources

Images: Station building, platform views, Lake Brienz cruises, Harder Kulm panorama.
Interactive Map: trainstation.world
Virtual Tours and Videos: Available on official tourism and railway sites.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Interlaken Ost Railway Station epitomizes Swiss efficiency, accessibility, and hospitality. Its robust infrastructure, modern amenities, and strategic location empower seamless journeys into the heart of the Bernese Alps. By leveraging travel passes, digital travel tools (such as the SBB Mobile and Jungfrau Railways apps), and the Audiala app for real-time updates, visitors can make the most of their alpine adventure. Be sure to explore nearby attractions, plan transfers in advance, and enjoy the vibrant culture and stunning scenery that Interlaken Ost provides.

Plan your trip today! Download the Audiala mobile app for live updates and ticket bookings, and visit our related articles for more tips on discovering Interlaken and the Swiss Alps.

References

Interlaken Ost Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Interlaken’s Historical Transport Hub, 2025, Switzerlanding (switzerlanding.com)
Interlaken Ost Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide to the Jungfrau Region, 2025, Swisstours (swisstours.com)
Interlaken Ost Railway Station Guide: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Facilities, and Accessibility, 2025, Trainstation World (trainstation.world)
Visitor Experience, Practical Tips, and Nearby Attractions at Interlaken Ost Railway Station, 2025, Switzerlandical (switzerlandical.com)
Official Jungfrau Railways Site, 2025 (jungfrau.ch)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) Official Website, 2025 (SBB)
Additional resources: wikipedia, showmethejourney.com, traveltriangle.com