A Family-Friendly Trip to Dubai and Switzerland

Thursday, September 28, 2023: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai, the land of stunning architecture and luxurious experiences. After checking into your hotel, start your day with a visit to the Dubai Mall. In the morning, explore the mall's wide range of shops, including the famous Gold Souk, where you can marvel at exquisite jewelry. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo for a mesmerizing underwater adventure. In the evening, watch the breathtaking Dubai Fountain show, accompanied by music and lights.

• Dubai Mall: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences
• Dubai Fountain: Free, show timings vary

Restaurants

• A scrumptious breakfast awaits at The Breakfast Club Dubai, where you can indulge in a variety of dishes such as pancakes, eggs benedict, and avocado toast. The average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Operation: Falafel, a popular spot for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Enjoy delicious falafels, shawarmas, and mezze platters. The average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Pierchic, a romantic seafood restaurant located on a pier with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Feast on fresh seafood dishes like lobster and grilled fish. The average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.

Friday, September 29, 2023: Exploring Dubai's Cultural Heritage

Immerse yourself in Dubai's rich cultural heritage today. Start your morning with a visit to the historic Al Fahidi Historic District, also known as Bastakiya. Explore the narrow streets, traditional courtyard houses, and art galleries. In the afternoon, stroll along the Dubai Creek and hop on an Abra (water taxi) to reach the vibrant Deira Spice Souk. Experience the scents and colors of various spices. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner at a local restaurant.

• Al Fahidi Historic District: Free entry, time spent depends on exploration
• Dubai Creek and Deira Spice Souk: Cost of Abra ride and personal shopping preferences
• Emirati Dinner: Cost depends on restaurant choice

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Al Fahidi Historic District is The Arabian Tea House. This charming café offers a variety of traditional Emirati and international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
• For lunch, head to XVA Café. Located within the art gallery, this café offers a serene atmosphere and a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
• In the evening, dine at Arabian Courtyard Restaurant in Bastakiya. This restaurant serves authentic Arabic cuisine with live music and belly dancing performances. Average cost for a meal is about AED 120 per person.

Saturday, September 30, 2023: Family Fun at Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend the day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a thrilling entertainment complex. Start your morning with a visit to Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience movie-themed rides and attractions. In the afternoon, head to Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park for endless fun and adventures for the whole family. Enjoy various rides, build with LEGO bricks, and splash in the water park's slides and pools. In the evening, have dinner at one of the park's many restaurants.

• Motiongate Dubai: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences
• Legoland Dubai: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences
• Legoland Water Park: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences

Sunday, October 1, 2023: Arrival in Switzerland, Lucerne Exploration

After a morning flight to Switzerland, you'll arrive in Lucerne. Begin your exploration by visiting the iconic Chapel Bridge, a stunning covered wooden bridge with a tower. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Lake Lucerne and enjoy the stunning mountain views. In the afternoon, explore the Swiss Museum of Transport for an interactive and educational experience. In the evening, savor delicious Swiss cuisine at a local restaurant.

• Chapel Bridge: Free, time spent depends on exploration
• Lake Lucerne: Free, time spent depends on personal preferences
• Swiss Museum of Transport: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences
• Swiss Cuisine Dinner: Cost depends on restaurant choice

Monday, October 2, 2023: Swiss Alps Adventure

Embark on a memorable trip to the Swiss Alps. Take a scenic train ride to the charming town of Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. In the morning, enjoy breathtaking views of the Jungfrau region from Harder Kulm, a mountain viewpoint. In the afternoon, take a cable car up to Schilthorn, famous for its panoramic revolving restaurant and stunning vistas. Return to Lucerne in the evening and relax after an adventurous day.

• Interlaken: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences
• Harder Kulm: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences
• Schilthorn: Cost and time spent depend on personal preferences

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Dubai, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Dubai Miracle Garden. This colorful botanical garden features stunning flower displays and unique installations, sure to capture the imagination of both children and adults. Another hidden gem is Rigi, a mountain near Lucerne. Take a cogwheel train to the summit and enjoy breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. Rigi also offers hiking trails and picnic spots, perfect for a day of family fun.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check out the best deals on Kayak.