Top 5 Scenic Routes from Major Swiss Airports to Interlaken

By ComfertTransfers 2025-06-17 12:26:32

Switzerland, with its breathtaking landscapes and pristine beauty, offers some of the best scenic drives in Europe. For travelers landing at the major Swiss airports, the journey to Interlaken is an experience worth savoring. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and surrounded by the majestic Bernese Alps, Interlaken is a gateway to some of the most stunning views Switzerland has to offer.

Choosing the right route to Interlaken can turn your transfer from a simple journey into a memorable adventure. Whether arriving from Zurich, Geneva, or Basel, there are multiple scenic options that showcase Switzerland’s charm in unique ways. Along with this, Comfort Transfers offers 24/7 chauffeur-driven booking across Switzerland, ensuring reliable airport car hire, hourly rides, and long-distance trips from Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and more. Their fleet of safe, clean vehicles combined with professional chauffeurs guarantees a seamless and comfortable experience, so you can enjoy the views without worry.

Let’s explore the top five scenic routes from Switzerland’s major airports to Interlaken.

1. Zurich Airport to Interlaken via Lake Lucerne Region

One of the most popular and picturesque routes from Zurich to Interlaken takes you through the heart of the Lake Lucerne region. This path is perfect for those wanting to experience some of Switzerland’s iconic lakes and mountains on the way.

Starting from Zurich Airport, the journey heads south towards the historic city of Lucerne. Nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne, this charming city offers stunning waterfront views and the famous Kapellbrücke bridge. Driving along the lakeside roads reveals glimpses of sparkling waters contrasted with lush green hills.

From Lucerne, the route winds along the edge of the Reuss River and climbs towards the Brünig Pass, which offers spectacular alpine vistas. This mountain pass is a highlight of the journey, showcasing panoramic views of rugged peaks and deep valleys. Descending from the pass, you arrive in the picturesque town of Meiringen, famous for the nearby Reichenbach Falls and Sherlock Holmes heritage.

The final leg of the journey traces the scenic valley leading directly into Interlaken, bordered by pristine lakes and majestic mountains.

This route is often praised as one of the best driving routes in Switzerland due to its mix of lake views, mountain passes, and charming towns.

2. Geneva Airport to Interlaken via Gruyères and Fribourg

Travelers coming from Geneva Airport can enjoy a different scenic experience by taking a route that travels northeast through the cultural heartland of Switzerland.

Leaving Geneva, this drive leads towards the medieval town of Gruyères, renowned worldwide for its cheese and beautiful hilltop castle. The pastoral landscapes along the way, with rolling hills dotted by dairy farms, create a peaceful and authentic Swiss countryside atmosphere.

Next, the route heads toward Fribourg, a city blending French and German-speaking Swiss cultures. Its well-preserved old town and stunning gothic architecture add cultural richness to the journey.

From Fribourg, the route continues through the scenic Swiss plateau, gradually approaching the foothills of the Alps. The drive features open meadows, traditional chalets, and dense forests, a classic representation of the Swiss countryside.

As the journey approaches Interlaken, the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland come into view, signaling the transition from gentle landscapes to dramatic alpine scenery.

Though a bit longer, this path offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature, making it a remarkable scenic drive in Switzerland.

3. Basel Airport to Interlaken via the Jura Mountains

From Basel, heading toward Interlaken means traversing the lesser-known but equally stunning Jura Mountains region before entering the Bernese Alps.

The Jura Mountains, with their gentle, forested ridges and wide valleys, provide a different kind of natural beauty compared to the towering Alps. Starting from Basel Airport, the route passes through quaint towns and vineyards nestled on rolling hills.

This drive offers opportunities to witness traditional Swiss rural life and enjoy quiet, peaceful surroundings away from the busier tourist corridors.

Crossing the Aare River valley, the landscape gradually changes as the route moves towards the higher elevations near Thun. The view opens up to include impressive mountain ranges and glistening lakes.

This journey balances serene countryside charm with dramatic alpine backdrops, creating a wonderful prelude to Interlaken’s famous scenery.

4. Zurich Airport to Interlaken via the Golden Pass Line

Although famous for its train journey, the Golden Pass route can also be experienced by road, offering some of the most spectacular views on the way to Interlaken.

Starting at Zurich Airport, the route passes through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Zurich Oberland, a picturesque area of gentle hills and small villages.

The drive continues to the scenic town of Zweisimmen, located at the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. Here, you begin to see the alpine landscape dramatically unfold with towering peaks and lush valleys.

From Zweisimmen, the final stretch descends into the Interlaken region, showcasing postcard-perfect views of lakes Thun and Brienz framed by the Jungfrau massif.

The Golden Pass route is cherished for its combination of pastoral Swiss landscapes and breathtaking alpine vistas, making it one of the best scenic drives in Switzerland.

5. Zurich Airport to Interlaken via Brienz and Lake Thun

Another incredible route from Zurich to Interlaken involves a lakeside journey along Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, two of Switzerland’s most stunning alpine lakes.

Leaving Zurich Airport, the route heads west, reaching the town of Brienz, situated on the shores of Lake Brienz. This town is known for its woodcarving tradition and spectacular lakeside views with turquoise waters and forested slopes.

Driving along the lakefront road offers panoramic views across the water and glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Continuing towards Interlaken, the journey skirts Lake Thun, passing charming villages and historic castles. The combination of crystal-clear lakes, medieval architecture, and towering mountains creates an unforgettable setting.

This route emphasizes the tranquil beauty of Swiss lakes and is a favorite among those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s splendor on the way to Interlaken.

Seamless Travel Experience with Comfort Transfers

While these scenic routes promise unforgettable views and rich experiences, Comfort Transfers makes your journey even better. Offering 24/7 chauffeur-driven booking services across Switzerland, Comfort Transfers ensures reliable airport transfers, hourly car hire, and long-distance trips from Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and beyond.

With a focus on safety, cleanliness, and professionalism, Comfort Transfers ' fleet provides a smooth and comfortable travel experience, allowing you to relax and soak in Switzerland’s beauty without stress.

Their dedicated team is ready around the clock to assist, making every transfer to Interlaken not just a ride, but a part of your Swiss adventure.

Combining Scenic Beauty and Convenience

Whether you prefer the lakeside charm of the Lucerne region, the cultural richness of Gruyères and Fribourg, or the serene Jura landscapes, each of these routes offers unique views of Switzerland’s diverse natural beauty.

Traveling from major airports to Interlaken on these scenic routes provides an incredible start to any Swiss vacation, blending picturesque surroundings with comfort and convenience.

Choosing Comfort Transfers for your journey ensures a professional and safe travel experience, perfectly complementing the stunning scenery along the way.

Conclusion

Switzerland’s landscape is a masterpiece, and the journey from its major airports to Interlaken can be just as inspiring as the destination itself. From alpine passes and crystal-clear lakes to historic towns and rolling hills, these five scenic routes capture the essence of Swiss beauty.

With the reliable, 24/7 service of Comfort Transfers, your transfer to Interlaken will be seamless and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy every moment of the journey.

Whether you’re arriving in Zurich, Geneva, or Basel, take the time to explore these top scenic drives and make your travel to Interlaken an unforgettable part of your Swiss adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes the route from Zurich Airport to Interlaken via Lake Lucerne particularly scenic?

This route is famous for its stunning combination of lake views, mountain passes, and charming Swiss towns. Passing through Lucerne, travelers experience crystal-clear lake waters and iconic landmarks like the Kapellbrücke bridge. The Brünig Pass offers panoramic alpine views before descending to Interlaken’s scenic lakeside setting.

2. Are there alternative routes from Geneva Airport to Interlaken that highlight Swiss culture and history?

Yes, the route through Gruyères and Fribourg offers a rich cultural experience. Gruyères is well-known for its medieval architecture and cheese heritage, while Fribourg presents a blend of French and German Swiss culture. This path combines scenic countryside with historical towns, enriching the journey beyond natural beauty.

3. What are the key natural highlights when driving via Brienz and Lake Thun from Zurich to Interlaken?

This route showcases two of Switzerland’s most beautiful alpine lakes with turquoise waters, surrounded by forested slopes and snow-capped peaks. Visitors can enjoy historic villages, lakeside promenades, and medieval castles while immersed in serene natural beauty.

4. How can travelers ensure a comfortable and stress-free transfer from airports to Interlaken?

Using services like Comfort Transfers guarantees reliable and safe transfers with professional chauffeurs available 24/7. Their clean and well-maintained vehicles allow travelers to relax and fully enjoy the scenic routes without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads.

5. What are the environmental benefits of choosing a professional transfer service in Switzerland?

Professional transfer providers often use modern, fuel-efficient vehicles and optimize routes to reduce emissions. This supports sustainable travel while providing convenience and comfort.