Interlaken Full-Day Highlights Tour with a Local by Private Car

If you’re seeking an all-encompassing day exploring Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, this Interlaken Full-Day Highlights Tour promises a personal and flexible way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights. Led by a knowledgeable local guide and driver, this private tour covers everything from towering waterfalls to mountain passes, with the freedom to customize your itinerary along the way. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer the intimacy of a tailored experience.

What really wins us over is the personalized approach—your guide adjusts the stops based on your interests, which means no two days are exactly alike. Plus, the included private transportation with unlimited kilometers means you can linger as long as you’d like at each stop without worrying about extra fees. That said, at around $840 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but the value for the amount of sightseeing, flexibility, and local insight you get is quite impressive.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, or anyone who appreciates authentic Swiss scenery and wants a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re traveling with a small group or family and love the idea of a personalized, comfy ride through the mountains, this option is worth considering.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary: Your guide tailors the day based on your interests and preferences.
• Private transportation: Unlimited km and the comfort of a private vehicle make it flexible and relaxed.
• Varied scenery: From waterfalls and caves to mountain passes and villages, you’ll see a wide range of Swiss highlights.
• Expert guide: Local knowledge adds depth and context to each stop, making the experience more meaningful.
• Timing flexibility: Stops vary from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours, allowing you to linger or move quickly.
• Cost and value: While the price is significant, the personalized experience and all-inclusive nature offer good value for dedicated travelers.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Flexibility of a Fully Customizable Day

One of the biggest perks of this tour is its fully customizable nature. Your guide, whether Swiss or expat, will craft an itinerary based on your desires, with suggestions rooted in local knowledge. This isn’t a rigid group tour — it’s a tailored journey through some of Switzerland’s most scenic spots. Reviewers have praised guides like Gavino and Benedikt for their accommodating attitudes and willingness to adjust plans on the fly, making the day feel more like a leisurely exploration than a set checklist.

Pickup and Convenience

The tour begins at the Yash Chopra Statue in Interlaken, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. This adds a layer of ease—no need to navigate public transport or arrange extra transfers. The private car, spacious and unlimited in distance, is ideal for weaving through mountain roads and stopping wherever your interest is piqued.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Let’s walk through some of the key stops, highlighting what makes each one special, and what you can expect on your visit:

Grindelwald

Your first stop, 45 minutes in Eiger’s village of Grindelwald, sets the tone for the day. Surrounded by dramatic mountains—the Eiger North Face and Wetterhorn—you’ll see why Grindelwald is a favorite for both photographers and adventurers. It’s the largest ski resort in the Jungfrau region, so if you’re into winter sports or simply love mountain villages with a cosmopolitan vibe, you’ll appreciate this spot.

Insight from reviews: Travelers loved the scenic vistas here, noting the “beautiful and memorable” experience. It’s a great introduction to the region’s majestic scenery.

Lauterbrunnen Valley and the Waterfalls

Next, we visit Lauterbrunnen, a valley famous for its 72 waterfalls, secluded alpine meadows, and sheer rock faces. Just 15 minutes here, but enough to soak in its surreal beauty. From there, the 30-minute visit to Staubbach Waterfall, Switzerland’s highest free-falling waterfall, offers a chance to walk behind the cascade, which is a truly unique experience.

Reviewer insights: One commented that Staubbach inspired Goethe’s poem, and during high season, it’s illuminated at night, adding a magical touch. The waterfall’s thunderous descent creates an audible reminder of nature’s power—definitely a highlight for water lovers.

Trummelbach Falls: A Unique Glacier Waterfall Experience

The 1-hour stop at Trummelbacht Falls is a real standout. These glacier waterfalls are accessible underground via lift and tunnels, a rarity that offers a close and dramatic encounter with the meltwater from the Jungfrau glaciers. Moving through galleries and tunnels, you’ll witness up to 20,000 liters of water flowing every second, carving the mountain over millennia.

Practical tip: Tickets are not included, but at 14 CHF for adults, it’s an affordable add-on. Reviewers loved the experience, noting the power of the water and the experience of walking through the mountain’s interior.

St. Beatus Caves

High above Lake Thun, the St. Beatus Caves offer an underground adventure—an estimated one kilometer of lit tunnels filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can explore safely on a well-designed pathway, discovering millions of years of natural formations.

A reviewer’s tip: The caves are a must-see if you enjoy geology and subterranean environments, though tickets are extra (19 CHF). The caves provide a cool, mystical break from the mountain sun.

Giessbach Falls and Lake Brienz

The 14-stage Giessbach Falls cascade over 500 meters, pouring into Lake Brienz. The historic Grand Hotel Giessbach, located at the foot of the falls, is accessible via Europe’s oldest funicular—adding a vintage touch. The duration here is about 1.5 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and maybe snap some photos.

Mountain Passes and Scenic Drives

After visiting waterfalls and caves, you’ll travel through iconic mountain passes like Sustenpass and Grimsel Pass—both offering breathtaking views of rugged granite, reservoirs, and alpine landscapes. The Sustenpass, opened in 1945, connects valleys and offers sweeping vistas, while the Grimsel Pass features a wild, rocky terrain with power stations and lakes.

Travel tip: The passes are free to access, so you can enjoy the scenic drives with no additional cost. Expect some elevation changes and winding roads—perfect for those who love mountain driving.

The Aare Gorge and Axalp

The Aare Gorge is a short but dramatic 1,400-meter-long canyon carved by the river. You’ll walk along walkways and tunnels, feeling the constant coolness of the water. It’s a refreshing stop—great for a sunny day or when you want a dose of invigorating nature.

On the way back, the Axalp settlement at 1,535 meters offers panoramic views over Lake Brienz and the surrounding Alps—another perfect photo opportunity.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler shared that their guide, Benedikt, was “pleasant and accommodating,” making the full-day experience seamless and enjoyable. They especially enjoyed the stops at Trummelbach Falls and Giessbach, highlighting the combination of natural beauty and historic charm.

Another noted that the flexibility in the itinerary meant they could customize their day to focus more on waterfalls, mountain views, or alpine villages, making the experience feel very personal. This flexibility is part of what elevates this tour from just another sightseeing bus.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At $840.60 per person, this tour is definitely on the higher end. But consider what’s included: private vehicle with unlimited kilometers, hotel pickup and drop-off, a dedicated local guide, and the ability to tailor the day. For travelers who value comfort, privacy, and a personalized experience, the cost can be justified, especially when compared to the cost of multiple individual tickets for attractions or renting a car and planning independently.

While some stops require extra tickets—like Trummelbach Falls or the caves—the overall experience covers a diverse array of scenery and activities, with the benefit of expert insights that aren’t easily matched in self-guided adventures.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups and families who want a flexible, private day exploring the highlights of the Bernese Oberland without the stress of navigation or rigid schedules. It’s perfect for those who appreciate local knowledge, scenic drives, and authentic Swiss villages and waterfalls. If you’re traveling with people who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, and are comfortable with a full day on the move, this tour fits well.

The Sum Up

This Interlaken Full-Day Highlights Tour with a Local by Private Car offers a premium, personalized way to see Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland. The flexibility to choose stops, the intimacy of private transportation, and the expertise of guides like Gavino or Benedikt bring the region’s stunning natural beauty to life.

While the price is notable, the value lies in the comfort, customization, and quality of experiences—whether it’s walking behind waterfalls, exploring underground caves, or cruising mountain passes. It’s a superb choice for travelers who want more than just snapshots—they want a meaningful, tailored Swiss adventure.

If you love scenic drives, waterfalls, and authentic mountain villages, and prefer a guided experience that adapts to your interests, this tour is a fantastic way to make the most of your day in the Bernese Oberland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day without extra hassle.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is fully customizable, and your guide will suggest a tailored plan based on your preferences.

How long are the stops?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes at Lauterbrunnen to 1.5 hours at Giessbach Falls, offering flexibility to linger or move on quickly.

Are tickets to attractions included?
Some attractions, like Trummelbach Falls and the caves, require separate tickets, which are not included in the price. Other stops, such as waterfalls and mountain passes, are free to access.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
It’s a private tour designed for small groups or families, providing a more intimate experience.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While available year-round, the best time depends on your interests—summer offers lush scenery and waterfalls, winter can bring snow and a different mountain landscape.

How much walking is involved?
Walking varies from minimal at scenic viewpoints to more at sites like the Aare Gorge or caves, so comfortable shoes are recommended.