Experience Switzerland in the Ballenberg open-air museum
Active
2h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Ballenberg Open-Air Museum is the only open-air museum in Switzerland.
Here you can experience Switzerland as it used to be. Look over the shoulder of our craftsmen and women, peek into the parlors and kitchens of over 100 Ballenberg buildings, enjoy the cultivated cultural landscape and make friends with our more than 200 farm animals.
Available options
Experience Switzerland in the Ballenberg open-air museum
What's included
Museum entry
Use of the digital museum guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
110 historical buildings from all parts of Switzerland, over 200 farm animals and old craftsmanship: in the Ballenberg open-air museum you can experience Switzerland with all your senses.
What's not included
Parking Fees
Carriage rides on the premises
Available languages
Written guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.3
20 reviews
5★
13
4★
3
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Rental of an all-terrain wheelchair possible on site
Important notes
Please exchange your ticket at the ticket offices of the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum in Hofstetten (WEST entrance) or Brienzwiler (East entrance).
About Interlaken
Interlaken is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It's renowned for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and as a gateway to the Jungfrau region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town offers a mix of relaxation and adrenaline-pumping activities, making it a favorite among travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement.
Top Attractions
Jungfraujoch
Known as the 'Top of Europe,' Jungfraujoch is a glacial saddle at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level. It offers breathtaking views, an ice palace, and various winter sports.
Nature
Full day
Expensive (CHF 180-200 round trip)
Harder Kulm
A viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz. Accessible by a funicular ride from the town center.
Nature
1-2 hours
Moderate (CHF 27 round trip)
Lauterbrunnen Valley
A stunning valley surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls. It's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (some activities may have fees)
Grindelwald
A charming mountain village known as the 'Beverly Hills of the Alps.' It's a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and paragliding.
Adventure
Full day
Moderate to expensive (depending on activities)
Staubbach Falls
One of the highest waterfalls in Europe, plunging 297 meters (974 feet) from an overhanging rock into the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fondue
A traditional Swiss dish made of melted cheese served in a communal pot, dipped with bread.
Dinner
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians with lactose intolerance.
Rösti
A crispy potato pancake, often served as a side dish or with various toppings.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian, can be made vegan.
Raclette
Melted cheese scraped onto boiled potatoes, pickles, and other accompaniments.
Dinner
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians with lactose intolerance.
Älplermagronen
A hearty dish of macaroni, potatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with applesauce.
Dinner
Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Paragliding
Skydiving
Hiking
Skiing
Snowboarding
Mountain biking
Boat tours on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to February
Summer offers the best weather for hiking, paragliding, and lake activities, while winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The town is busiest during these periods, with vibrant atmospheres and numerous events.
15-25°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter)
59-77°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: German, French, Italian, Romansh
- Widely spoken: English, Swiss German
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Time Zone
CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Interlaken is a very safe destination with low crime rates. The main safety concerns are related to outdoor activities and the Alpine environment.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious of scams targeting tourists
Getting there
By air
- Bern Airport • 40 km (25 miles)
- Zurich Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
By train
Interlaken Ost, Interlaken West
By bus
Interlaken Ost, Interlaken West
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are efficient and cover most of the town and surrounding areas. They are integrated with the Swiss Travel System.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxi App, Uber (limited availability)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Interlaken Town Center
Interlaken West
Interlaken Ost
Day trips
Grindelwald
30 km (19 miles) • Full day
A charming mountain village known for its stunning Alpine scenery and outdoor activities.
Lauterbrunnen Valley
15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day
A stunning valley surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls.
Thun
25 km (16 miles) • Half day
A picturesque town on the shores of Lake Thun, known for its medieval old town and castle.
Festivals
Interlaken Snowfest • January
Jungfrau Marathon • September
Interlaken Music Festival • July
Pro tips
- Book the Jungfraujoch train tickets in advance, as they can sell out, especially during peak season
- Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network
- Pack layers and be prepared for variable weather, even in the summer
- Try local specialties like fondue, raclette, and Swiss chocolate
- Explore the surrounding valleys and towns, such as Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Brienz
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
