Maximize the Interlaken Guest Card

You can find the latest updates on Interlaken travel info.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Interlaken travel info.

The card also provides helpful discounts on many popular winter activities during your 2026 visit. You can save money on entry fees to public swimming pools and wellness centers. Some local museums also offer significantly reduced rates for all cardholders in the winter. Always keep this physical or digital card with you during your daily mountain explorations.

Many visitors forget to use these benefits and spend unnecessary money on short bus rides. The local transport network is very efficient and reaches most major tourist spots easily. You can save over 10 CHF per day just by using the free bus system. Ask your accommodation host for the card immediately after you check into your room.

Eat Cheaply at Local Supermarkets

Dining out in Switzerland is often very expensive for most international tourists visiting in 2026. You can save money by shopping at the Coop or Migros supermarkets near the station. These stores offer fresh sandwiches, healthy salads, and hot meals at very low prices. Look for the "Prix Garantie" or "M-Budget" labels for the best extra savings.

Many large supermarkets have indoor seating areas where you can enjoy a quick lunch. You can find a warm, filling meal for under 15 CHF at these locations. This is much cheaper than sitting in a traditional Swiss mountain restaurant for lunch. Buying your drinks at the grocery store also saves you significant money every day.

Try to book accommodation that includes a small kitchen or at least a microwave. Cooking your own dinner can save you over 40 CHF per person each night. Local markets sometimes sell discounted food items near the end of the business day. This is a great way to find cheap Swiss chocolate for your friends.

Find Free and Low-Cost Winter Fun

You do not need to spend much money to enjoy the winter scenery here. Walking along Lake Brienz or Lake Thun costs absolutely nothing for visitors to do. These paths offer stunning views of the surrounding snowy mountains and the blue water. Bring a warm thermos of tea to stay comfortable during your scenic winter walk.

Visit the Ice Magic Interlaken rink during the off-peak morning hours for better rates. Ticket prices are often much lower before the large evening crowds begin to arrive. You can also watch local winter parades like the Harder Potschete for free in January. These events provide a great cultural experience without any extra cost to you.

Window shopping at the famous Höheweg is another free way to spend your afternoon. You can admire luxury watches and fine Swiss crafts without spending a single cent. The local parks often have free seating areas with spectacular views of the Jungfrau. These spots are perfect for a budget-friendly winter picnic during your 2026 trip.

Save on Transport and Mountain Trips

Mountain railways are famous but they can be very costly for most budget visitors. Consider buying a regional travel pass if you plan to take many mountain trips. The Jungfrau Travel Pass offers great value for several consecutive days of winter travel. It covers many trains, cable cars, and buses throughout the entire mountain region.

Check the official SBB website for special "Supersaver" tickets between major Swiss cities. Booking these specific tickets early can save you up to 50 percent on fares. Traveling during off-peak hours is another smart way to reduce your total travel costs. Always compare individual ticket prices against the total cost of a regional travel pass.

Walking within the Interlaken town center is very easy and completely free for everyone. The town is quite compact and very pedestrian-friendly for all winter tourists in 2026. You can reach most local shops and cafes on foot within a few minutes. This saves you from paying for expensive taxi rides or unnecessary short bus fares.

Read our full Interlaken winter travel tips to plan your perfect budget-friendly itinerary. Planning your route in advance helps you avoid paying full price for last-minute tickets. Use the free local apps to track train schedules and find the cheapest routes.