So, you’re ready to travel again. Maybe you’re studying abroad and dying to plan your next weekend trip, or you’re one of many getting ready to venture out into the big blue world for the first time in a while. Either way, it can be daunting to decide what your final destination should be—which is why we’re putting a place that often goes overlooked on your radar. Enter: Interlaken, Switzerland.

The town, situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, almost looks like a movie set and is perfect for seeing the Swiss Alps for the first time. It’s one of those places where you don’t really have to do anything to take it all in—it’s truly somewhere you can just slow down and appreciate how wonderful and beautiful life is. If Interlaken isn’t at the top of your bucket list now, it will be after you’ve read our guide.

Where to stay:

Perhaps the most important technicality of any trip, you’re going to need to figure out where to stay. Luckily for you, Interlaken is not short on great lodging options. If hostels are more your vibe, there’s the Youth Hostel Interlaken or Balmers Hostel. However, if you’d rather stay in a hotel (we get it) there are plenty right along the main street of Interlaken. A personal favorite of ours is The Hey Hotel.

What to do:

You’re finally in Interlaken…now what? Prioritizing what you want to see or where you want to go can be a challenge, so we’ve put together a list with something on it for everyone.

If you want to get to know the town…

Walk the length of the Höheweg, the avenue that runs between Interlaken’s east and west train stations. To the left of the road are Höhematte park, Interlaken’s center, and a frequent landing spot of paragliders, which has a gorgeous view of the Jungfrau summit and is filled with flowers in the spring and summer. To the right are hotels, boutiques, bars and restaurants, and even a casino. Walking from one end to the other is a great way to acquaint yourself with the town while taking in the stunning view.

If you’re feeling adventurous…

Speaking of paragliding, Interlaken might just be the place to be if you’re interested in paragliding or skydiving. You can sign up for one of these professionally guided excursions here and meet up right in Interlaken before hitting the skies.

If you want to see the town from above…

Take the funicular up Harder Kulm, the mountain overlooking both Interlaken and Lakes Thun and Brienz. Plus, if you’re feeling motivated after riding up over 4,000 feet, there are trails at the top to wander through. Or, you can sit at the panoramic restaurant with some good food before heading back down.

If you’re in the mood for some picturesque hiking views…

Take a short train to neighboring Wilderswil, where you can get on a cogwheel train up to the Schynige Platte trails, which have gorgeous alpine gardens and a panoramic view of the Alps and Lake Thun. The trails, which vary in length and difficulty, begin at the very top and loop around the mountain. Make sure to look up whether or not the train is running when you visit because it is seasonal, but should it not be going up the mountain Wilderswil is an adorable town worth checking out anyway!

If you’re ready to try some Swiss Chocolate…

You’re going to want to head to the Funky Chocolate Club. This is the ultimate place to go if you want to both eat and learn about Swiss chocolate! The hot chocolate is some of the best you’ll ever have, though we suggest making it a meal because it is quite filling.

If you want to see the highest railway station in Europe…

You’re going to want to book yourself the “Top of Europe” day trip to Jungfraujoch, the saddle connecting two of the highest mountains in the Bernese Alps: the Jungfrau and the Mönch. At over 11,000 feet, snow and icy views are guaranteed 365 days a year and while you’re up there, you might as well elevator up to the Sphinx Observatory’s viewing platform.

If you’re looking to treat yourself…

Book a spa treatment at the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel or the Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage, two of Interlaken’s grandest and most beautiful hotels. Bonus: some spa packages include a meal and a drink before or after your relaxation session.

If you want to take a day trip to a neighboring village…

You have so many great choices just a short train ride away! Besides the aforementioned Wilderswil, one of our favorites is Lauterbrunnen. This adorable village town is complete with lush rolling hills and a whopping 72 cascading waterfalls. Another option is Spiez, found on the south shore of Lake Thun. Spiez is one of the best places to see the lake up close, as well as the shadow of Mount Niesen, the “Swiss Pyramid.”

If you want to see the famous Swiss cows…

We don’t blame you. They’re adorable. And conveniently, they’re everywhere, though we find they’re most accessible in either Wilderswil or Lauterbrunnen. If you’re struggling to find them, just follow the sound of cowbells.

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Your Travel Guide to Interlaken, Switzerland