Mountains and countryside in Switzerland and Germany

Are you longing for an invigorating hike, gulps of fresh mountain air and the chance to see some of Europe's most mythical landscapes? 

If so, you've come to the right place. In this itinerary, you'll learn how to use an Interrail Pass to see two famous landscapes — the Swiss Alps and the Black Forest — plus a few nature-forward cities along the way. 

Simply choose your Pass and pack a sturdy pair of boots and some sunscreen. As an added bonus, no seat reservations are needed to make this trip a success. 

Interlaken, Switzerland

Start your trip by travelling to one of Switzerland’s most jaw-dropping destinations: the Jungfrau Valley, in the Bernese Alps. 

No matter where you're travelling from to reach Interlaken, the city at the base of the mountains, don't forget to look out the train windows to catch sight of the snow-capped mountains and idyllic Swiss countryside. 

In addition to strolling Interlaken’s charming streets, take time to experience the beauty of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun aboard a BLS Interlaken Lake Cruise. Interrail travellers can sail for free on these boat services. 

The Jungfrau Valley, Switzerland

From the shores of Interlaken, take a 20-minute ride on the Berner Oberland-Bahn into the mountains to Lauterbrunnen, nestled in a valley with waterfalls cascading down from the cliffs above. It’s said that J.R.R. Tolkein drew inspiration for Rivendell, home of the elves in the Lord of the Rings series, from Lauterbrunnen. Once you arrive, it will be easy to see why. 

From Lauterbrunnen, travellers can use the Pass to access Wengen and Mürren, two mountain towns situated higher up in the Bernese Alps; each make an ideal base for a visit to the Jungfrau region. Spend an extra day taking the train around the region to stops such as Grindelwald, Winteregg, and beyond. As of December 2023, many of the region’s train lines are included in the Pass network.  

Find plenty of ideas for adventure in the Jungfrau region here.  

Basel, Switzerland

After hiking to your heart’s content in the Jungfrau region, it’s time to start making your way to Germany. Halfway between the Jungfrau region and the heart of Germany, Basel is a helpful stopover point for travellers who wish to break up their journey. From Lauterbrunnen, the train ride to Basel should take about two-and-a-half hours, with a transfer at Interlaken Ost.

While in Basel, wander through the picturesque Old Town and immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings with a visit to one of its museums. Fun fact: the Kunstmuseum Basel is said to be home to the oldest public art collection in the world. 

Bad Wildbad, Germany

Bad Wildbad, a charming town tucked amid the pines in southeast Germany, is an ideal home base for exploring the Black Forest. After checking out the town’s restaurants, shops and cafes, take the funicular up to the Sommerberg for some fresh air. Don’t miss the Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald, a treetop walking path that leads visitors to a dramatic spiral viewing platform overlooking much of the Black Forest. 

Pro-tip: After experiencing the Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald, venture further on hiking trails to the Waldgaststätte Grünhütte, a restaurant known for its pancakes with jam.

Düsseldorf, Germany

Your adventure culminates in Düsseldorf, which dubs itself "the green city." 

Treat yourself to a cruise on the Rhine, followed by a stroll down the street-art-covered Kiefernstraße. Searching for a snack or souvenirs? Just pop by Carlsplatz Markt (or one of the city’s other markets) and peruse the wide offerings of baked goods, cheese, produce, and other specialties available for purchase.

Wrap up your time in Düsseldorf by relaxing in the Hofgarten, the oldest public garden in Germany, just one of the city's serene green spaces.