Expat Transport Guide: Getting Around Interlaken

Transportation Overview

Interlaken scores 4.0/5 for public transportation, with a cost of living rating of 1.0/5. Budget for approximately 18 transportation-related costs including transit passes and vehicle expenses.

Interlaken benefits from Switzerland's world-renowned public transportation system, offering exceptional connectivity despite being a small tourist town. The network seamlessly integrates trains, buses, and boats to connect the town with major Swiss cities and scenic mountain destinations. The system is known for its punctuality, cleanliness, and comprehensive coverage of the region.

Quick Stats

Transport Score

4.0 /5

Cost of Living

1.0 /5

Weather Score

4.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$11,900

Monthly Costs

$1,895/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Driving License Conversion $85

Driving License New $1,850

International Driving Permit $20

Monthly

Public Transport Pass Adult $85/mo

Public Transport Pass Child $45/mo

Car Rental Monthly $850/mo

Showing 6 of 18 costs — sign up to see all

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized transportation costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Interlaken.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

For extensive daily travel, consider an SBB GA Travelcard or Half-Fare Travelcard for cost savings.

The GA Travelcard provides unlimited travel, while the Half-Fare card significantly reduces ticket prices across Switzerland.

Consider using Park+Rail at Interlaken West station for commuting.

It offers convenient parking near the station, allowing you to combine driving with public transport for your onward journey.

Consider timing train travel to avoid the 7:30 AM and 5:15 PM peak services

these trains are packed with commuters and tourists, while 30-minute earlier or later services are comfortable

Car ownership is expensive, and Mobility provides an excellent, flexible solution for occasional transport needs.

Useful Links

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB)

Official Swiss national railway providing train schedules, tickets, and comprehensive public transportation throughout Switzerland.

›

Swiss Public Transport

Official government portal explaining Swiss public transportation system, passes, and regional transport options.

›

Bern Transport Network

Regional transport authority managing buses, trams, and local transportation services in Bern canton area.

›

Swiss Driving License Office

Official information on Swiss driving license requirements, conversion procedures, and driving tests for foreign residents.

›

Vehicle Registration Office

Cantonal motor vehicle department handling car registration, license plates, and vehicle documentation in Bern.

›

Explore Other Guides

Immigration Guide Housing Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Pets Guide

Transportation Guides in Switzerland

View all 140+ city guides →

Frequently Asked Questions

Public transportation in Interlaken includes buses, metro, trams, and other transit options. Coverage and frequency vary by neighborhood. Use ReloPlanner to see detailed transport scores for each area.

Whether you need a car in Interlaken depends on your neighborhood and lifestyle. Create a free ReloPlanner account to compare transportation costs and options for your specific situation.

There are approximately 18 transportation-related costs to consider when moving to Interlaken, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Interlaken

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for transportation and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026

This was the general picture

Your move to Interlaken looks nothing like this

This guide covers Interlaken for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up