Whenever I travel, I always make it a point to bring home something that captures the spirit and essence of the destination. After all, the memories we make in these places are often fleeting, but a well-chosen souvenir can transport us back to those magical moments. On my recent trip to Interlaken, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, I was on the lookout for authentic, local souvenirs that would serve as tangible reminders of my unforgettable experience in this beautiful region. Interlaken, known for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and Swiss traditions, offers a variety of unique and locally crafted treasures. Here’s a personal guide to the best souvenirs I discovered while wandering through this charming Alpine town.
1. Swiss Watches: A Timeless Treasure
Interlaken is an excellent place to purchase a Swiss watch, and it quickly became clear that I couldn’t leave Switzerland without at least looking at some of the world’s most renowned timepieces. From sleek, modern designs to intricate, traditional craftsmanship, Swiss watches are known for their precision and reliability. While browsing through the luxury watch stores along Höheweg, the town’s main promenade, I found myself mesmerized by brands like Tag Heuer, Omega, and the iconic Rolex.
However, I wanted something more unique and personal, and that’s when I stumbled upon Mondaine, a brand that offers the official Swiss railway clock design. Mondaine watches are both stylish and affordable, making them a perfect souvenir. I ended up purchasing a sleek, minimalist design that mirrored the famous railway clocks you see all over Switzerland. Each time I wear it, I’m reminded of the punctuality and precision that Swiss public transport is known for, as well as my peaceful moments waiting for trains at Interlaken Ost.
Where to Buy:
- Bucherer: This is one of the oldest and most famous luxury watch retailers in Switzerland. Located right on Höheweg, it offers a wide range of high-end Swiss watch brands.
- Kirchhofer: Another fantastic shop where you can find luxury watches, fine jewelry, and souvenirs.
2. Swiss Chocolate: The Sweetest Memento
No trip to Switzerland is complete without indulging in Swiss chocolate, and Interlaken is home to some of the best chocolate shops I’ve ever visited. After a long day of hiking and sightseeing, I made my way to Funky Chocolate Club on Jungfraustrasse, where I not only sampled an array of artisanal chocolates but also participated in a chocolate-making workshop. It was an incredibly fun experience, where I learned about the art of tempering chocolate, molding it into shapes, and even decorating my creations.
Swiss chocolate has a reputation that speaks for itself—smooth, rich, and absolutely delicious. I brought home several bars from Funky Chocolate Club, some of which I had made myself during the workshop. These chocolate bars became not only delightful gifts for friends and family but also a sweet reminder of my adventure in Interlaken. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, I recommend picking up a box of Läderach chocolates, known for their luxurious quality and innovative flavors.
Where to Buy:
- Funky Chocolate Club: A must-visit for chocolate lovers. You can buy artisanal chocolates here or take part in a workshop.
- Läderach: For those looking for high-end Swiss chocolate, Läderach is a perfect choice. Their stores are found throughout Switzerland, including Interlaken.
3. Cow Bells: A Classic Swiss Souvenir
As I explored the rural areas surrounding Interlaken, I couldn’t help but notice the melodic ringing of cowbells echoing through the valleys. Cows are a symbol of Switzerland’s rich agricultural heritage, and these bells, known as “Treicheln”, are a quintessential Swiss souvenir. After learning about their cultural significance, I decided that a cowbell would make a unique memento to bring back home.
While wandering through the shops in Interlaken, I found a small store specializing in traditional Swiss gifts, where a wide variety of cowbells were on display. The bells ranged in size from small decorative pieces to large, authentic cowbells that are still used by Swiss farmers today. Each bell is beautifully decorated, often with intricate designs featuring alpine flowers or the Swiss flag.
I opted for a smaller bell with a hand-painted edelweiss flower, which is the national flower of Switzerland. It’s now hanging in my kitchen, and every time I hear its soft chime, I’m reminded of the peaceful countryside and the sound of cows grazing in the lush Swiss pastures.
Where to Buy:
- Swiss Mountain Market: This shop offers a wide selection of authentic cowbells in various sizes, perfect for souvenirs or home decor.
- Alpina Souvenirs: Located on Höheweg, Alpina Souvenirs is a great place to find traditional Swiss gifts, including beautifully crafted cowbells.
4. Wood Carvings: A True Swiss Craft
During my stay in Interlaken, I took a day trip to Brienz, a small village renowned for its wood carving tradition. The moment I arrived, I was captivated by the craftsmanship on display in the town’s many wood carving workshops. Brienz has a rich history of wood carving, dating back to the 19th century, and it remains one of the best places to purchase hand-carved wooden souvenirs.
I visited the Schweizer Holzbildhauerei workshop, where I watched artisans at work, carving everything from intricate figurines to larger pieces like wooden bears and mountain scenes. I ended up buying a beautifully carved wooden cow—a symbol of Swiss life in the Alps. It’s a charming addition to my bookshelf and a true work of art.
For those seeking a one-of-a-kind souvenir that reflects Switzerland’s alpine culture, wood carvings from Brienz or Interlaken are a perfect choice.
Where to Buy:
- Schweizer Holzbildhauerei: A renowned wood carving workshop in Brienz that offers handmade pieces crafted by local artisans.
- Swiss Wood Carvings: Located in Interlaken, this shop specializes in high-quality, hand-carved wooden souvenirs.
5. Swiss Army Knife: Practical and Iconic
Another iconic Swiss souvenir I couldn’t leave without was a Swiss Army knife. Known for their utility and precision, Swiss Army knives are a symbol of Swiss ingenuity and craftsmanship. I visited the Victorinox store in Interlaken, where I learned about the different models and customizations available. From simple pocket knives to multifunctional tools, there’s a Swiss Army knife for everyone.
What makes this souvenir even more special is the option to engrave your name or a personal message on the knife. I opted for a classic red Victorinox knife with my initials engraved on the handle—a practical souvenir that I know I’ll use for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, hiker, or just appreciate well-made tools, a Swiss Army knife is a fantastic and practical keepsake from Interlaken.
Where to Buy:
- Victorinox Store: Located in the heart of Interlaken, this store offers a wide range of Swiss Army knives with the option for custom engraving.
6. Swiss Cheese: A Taste of the Alps
One of the most delicious souvenirs you can bring home from Interlaken is Swiss cheese. The Swiss take great pride in their cheese-making traditions, and the region around Interlaken is known for producing some of the finest varieties. While wandering through the local markets, I sampled several types of cheese, from the famous Emmental and Gruyère to more local varieties like Berner Alpkäse.
I ended up buying a wheel of Raclette cheese from a local market, which has become a favorite for cozy nights at home. Swiss cheese travels well, especially if vacuum-packed, so it makes for a fantastic edible souvenir. If you’re not sure which cheese to choose, many shops in Interlaken offer tastings, allowing you to try before you buy.
Where to Buy:
- Chäs Fritz: A cheese shop in Interlaken that offers a variety of Swiss cheeses, including local specialties and gift boxes.
- Local Markets: For a more authentic experience, visit the weekly markets in Interlaken, where local farmers sell their cheese, bread, and other products.
7. Traditional Swiss Clothing and Accessories
If you’re looking for a more wearable souvenir, traditional Swiss clothing and accessories make for stylish and unique mementos. Interlaken has several shops that offer beautifully made dirndls, lederhosen, and alpaca wool scarves and hats. These pieces reflect Swiss culture and are perfect for keeping warm during the colder months.
While exploring a local boutique, I found a cozy alpaca wool scarf in classic Swiss colors of red and white. The quality of the fabric was impeccable, and I’ve already worn it on several chilly evenings. It’s a stylish reminder of my time in the Swiss Alps and a great conversation starter.
Where to Buy:
- Heidi’s Swiss Shop: A charming store offering traditional Swiss clothing, accessories, and other locally made goods.
- Alpina Souvenirs: In addition to cowbells and wooden carvings, this shop also sells traditional Swiss clothing and accessories.
Interlaken offers a treasure trove of unique souvenirs that capture the beauty, craftsmanship, and culture of Switzerland. Whether you’re looking for a timeless Swiss watch, artisanal chocolate, a hand-carved wooden figurine, or a practical Swiss Army knife, you’ll find something to remind you of your adventure in the heart of the Alps. Each of these souvenirs carries a piece of Switzerland with it, allowing you to relive your memories long after you’ve returned home.
