Interlaken to Varenna Road Trip: Lakes, Alps, and Hidden Gems

The drive from Interlaken to Varenna covers approximately 300 kilometers, crossing two countries and four major alpine passes. At the heart of this route lies the Grimsel Pass (2164 m), a road that twists between glacier-carved valleys and stark granite landscapes. Unlike many Alpine crossings, the Grimsel remains open year-round, though winter conditions demand snow tires and chains. The final descent into Varenna reveals one of the most photographed corners of Lake Como, where pastel villas climb from the water's edge.

The Grimsel and Nufenen passes feature narrow hairpins and steep gradients (up to 12%). Guardrails are present but short. Summer afternoons bring motorcycle traffic. Winter requires snow tires and chains; check road conditions at tcs.ch. The Italian section along Lake Como's SP72 (between Menaggio and Varenna) is narrow with limited pull-offs—use caution on blind curves.

Family suitability: The Grimsel World visitor center (at the pass) offers an interactive alpine experience. In Gletsch, ride the historic Furka Cogwheel Steam Train. Bellinzona's castles are child-friendly with moats and towers. Varenna's lakeside promenade is stroller-friendly.

• Pet-friendly: Most Swiss restaurants allow dogs on leashes. Many hotels in Interlaken and Varenna accept pets (fee ~€15-25).
• Rest zones: Pull-off on Grimselstrasse near the Gelmersee cable car. In Airolo, the motorway service area has a panorama terrace.
• Fatigue management: Stop every 2 hours. Best break points: Meiringen (45 min), Grimsel Pass (30 min), Airolo (lunch), Bellinzona (castle visit).
• Hidden off-route spot: The Furkajoch (from Gletsch to Realp) offers the Belvedere Hotel viewpoint over the Rhone Glacier—a quieter alternative to the glacier grotto.

Is it worth driving Interlaken to Varenna? Absolutely—the contrast between Alpine passes and Mediterranean lakes makes for one of Europe's most diverse road trips. Allow at least one overnight (e.g., in Bellinzona or Lugano) to truly savor the route.

The most scenic route follows the A8 east from Interlaken to Meiringen, then the Grimselstrasse (Route 6) over the Grimsel Pass. From the pass, descend into Gletsch and continue on Route 19 over the Nufenen Pass to Bedretto. From there, take the A2 south to Bellinzona, then the E35 to Lugano and the SS40 to Menaggio before hugging the lake's western shore to Varenna. For a faster option, skip the Nufenen and use the Gotthard Tunnel (A2), saving about 1 hour but missing spectacular scenery.

• Highways used: A8, Grimselstrasse (Route 6), Route 19, A2, E35, SS340.
• Toll costs: Swiss vignette required (CHF 40 for 1 year). Italian A2/E35 tolls about €15 total.
• Fuel stations: Regular stations in Interlaken, Meiringen, Gletsch (limited), Airolo, Bellinzona, Lugano. Fill up before passes.
• Best stops Interlaken to Varenna: Grimselsee, Gletsch (Rhone Glacier), Gotthard Pass viewpoint, Bellinzona castles.
• How long to drive Interlaken to Varenna? Without stops, 4.5–5.5 hours; with photo stops and lunch, 7–9 hours.

As you leave Interlaken, the road hugs the Lake Brienz shore, revealing turquoise water backed by the Bernese Alps. The climb to Grimsel Pass transforms the landscape from green valleys to barren alpine tundra where marmots whistle from rocky outcrops. Near the summit, the Grimselsee reservoir cuts into the rock with a surreal electric-blue reflection. Descending into the Valais, you pass the Rhone Glacier's toe—a UNESCO-listed site (Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona) and a chance to step inside an ice grotto.

Crossing Nufenen Pass (2478m), the highest all-asphalt pass in Switzerland, the road snakes between snow-capped peaks and offers views of the Gries Glacier. In Ticino, the landscape softens into chestnut forests and terraced vineyards. Bellinzona's three castles (UNESCO World Heritage) mark the transition to Mediterranean climate. From Lugano onward, the route follows the Lake of Lugano and then Lake Como's eastern branch, where lemon trees and oleanders line the road.

• UNESCO sites near route: Bellinzona Castles, Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona (partial), Monte San Giorgio (near Lugano).
• Local commerce: In Meiringen, buy Hobelkäse (aged cheese). At Gletsch, try dried meats. In Bellinzona, shop for Merlot wine and polenta.
• Microclimates: Interlaken averages 18°C in July, Grimsel Pass rarely above 10°C, Varenna often reaches 28°C. Pack layers.

Explore curated tips on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.