Best Parking for Touch the Mountains Event Interlaken 2026
Interlaken hosts a massive open-air concert every January 1st. Thousands of people visit the town for this celebration. Finding parking for Touch the Mountains event Interlaken is very difficult. You must plan your journey well in advance for 2026.
Top Public Parking for Touch the Mountains Event Interlaken
The town center offers several large parking garages for visitors. The Bahnhof West parking lot is a popular choice. It sits very close to the main concert stage. This lot fills up quickly on New Year's Day.
Another great option is the Bahnhof Ost parking garage. This facility is located near the boat docks. It offers a short walk to the Höheweg meadow. You should check the Touch the Mountains Interlaken 2026 schedule before arriving.
Many smaller lots are scattered throughout the city center. The Migros and Coop grocery stores have underground parking. These lots often have strict time limits. Always read the signs to avoid expensive fines. Most garages charge around 2.50 CHF per hour.
Arriving before noon is highly recommended for this event. Most central spots are gone by 2:00 PM. The concert usually starts in the early afternoon. Early arrival gives you time to explore other Interlaken winter events 2026 before the music begins.
Alternative Park and Ride Solutions for 2026
Driving into the city center can be very stressful. Many locals prefer using Park and Ride stations. Wilderswil is an excellent place to leave your car. It is only one train stop away from Interlaken. The train ride takes less than five minutes.
You can also find parking at the Leissigen station. This area is quieter than the main town. Frequent trains run to Interlaken West throughout the day. Check the SBB CFF FFS website for the latest holiday schedules. Trains are reliable even in snowy weather.
Parking at your hotel is often the best strategy. Many hotels near Touch the Mountains offer guest parking. You can leave your car and walk to the stage. This saves you from searching for a spot in traffic. Most hotels are within a 15-minute walk.
Using public transport helps reduce congestion in the valley. Interlaken is a small town with narrow streets. Large crowds make driving very slow on January 1st. The regional bus system also offers special event services. These buses connect nearby villages to the town center.
Parking Costs and Payment Methods in Interlaken
Parking in Switzerland is rarely free in city centers. Expect to pay between 20 and 30 CHF for a full day. Most machines accept Swiss Francs and Euro coins. Many modern garages now accept major credit cards. You can also use mobile apps for convenience.
The EasyPark app works well in most Interlaken lots. It allows you to pay from your phone. You can extend your parking time without returning to the car. This is helpful if the concert runs late. Make sure to download the app before you arrive.
- Bahnhof West: ~2.50 CHF per hour
- Bahnhof Ost: ~2.00 CHF per hour
- Parking Centrum: ~3.00 CHF per hour
- Wilderswil P+R: ~5.00 CHF per day
Fines for illegal parking are very high in Switzerland. Do not park on sidewalks or private grass areas. Police actively patrol the streets during major events. They will tow vehicles that block emergency exits. Always use a designated and marked parking space.
Road Closures and Traffic Tips for New Year's Day
The local government closes several roads for the event. The Höheweg is the main street through Interlaken. It becomes a pedestrian-only zone during the concert. This closure affects traffic flow throughout the entire town. Follow the official detour signs carefully.
Traffic is heaviest immediately after the fireworks display. The show usually ends around 8:00 PM. Thousands of people try to leave at the same time. Expect delays of up to one hour when exiting garages. Consider staying for dinner to let the traffic clear.
Winter weather can make driving conditions very difficult. Snow and ice are common in Interlaken during January. Ensure your car has proper winter tires for the trip. Carrying snow chains is a good idea for mountain roads. Check the Interlaken Tourism site for road updates.
If you enjoy local traditions, stay for the next day. The Harder Potschete 2026 parade happens on January 2nd. Parking remains difficult during this traditional mask parade. Planning a multi-day stay is often more relaxing. You can enjoy the festivities without the stress of daily driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there free parking for Touch the Mountains event Interlaken?
Free parking is almost impossible to find in central Interlaken. Most street spots have strict meters or permit requirements. You might find free spots in residential areas further away. However, these usually have a blue zone limit of one hour. It is better to pay for a garage.
Can I reserve a parking spot in advance?
Most public parking garages in Interlaken do not take reservations. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some private hotel parking might be reservable for guests. Arriving before noon is the only way to guarantee a central spot on New Year's Day.
Are there electric vehicle charging stations near the event?
Yes, several garages offer EV charging stations in Interlaken. The Bahnhof Ost garage has dedicated spots for electric cars. You can also find chargers near the Interlaken West station. These spots are very popular and fill up quickly during the holiday season.
Finding parking for Touch the Mountains event Interlaken requires early arrival. Use public garages or Park and Ride stations for the best experience. Avoid the city center during peak traffic hours after the fireworks. Plan your trip now to enjoy a stress-free New Year in Switzerland.