Start your trip by exploring the beautiful city of Zurich. In the morning, head to the Zurich Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits that will delight both children and adults. Afterward, take a stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Zurich and enjoy a picnic with stunning views. In the evening, visit the Swiss Museum of Transport, where you can learn about the history of transportation through interactive displays and exhibits.
Swiss Museum of Transport: Cost: CHF 16 (adult), CHF 9 (child), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the charming Cafe Felix. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and artisanal coffee while taking in the cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 10-15 CHF per person.
For lunch, head to the trendy Hiltl. This vegetarian restaurant offers a wide range of flavorful dishes, from spicy curries to hearty salads. Average cost for a meal is about 20-25 CHF per person.
In the evening, treat your family to a memorable dinner at the elegant Restaurant Fork & Bottle. Indulge in their gourmet menu featuring seasonal ingredients and expertly paired wines. Average cost for a meal is about 50-60 CHF per person.
Sunday, July 21: Lucerne
Head to Lucerne, a charming city nestled amidst the Swiss Alps. Start your morning by taking a boat ride on Lake Lucerne, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Afterward, visit the Swiss Museum of Transport, where you can explore various modes of transportation and even try out simulators. In the evening, take a leisurely walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge, one of Switzerland's most famous landmarks.
Lake Lucerne Boat Ride: Cost: CHF 20 (adult), CHF 10 (child), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Swiss Museum of Transport: Cost: CHF 16 (adult), CHF 9 (child), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Chapel Bridge: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Café de Ville, located in the heart of Lucerne. This charming café offers a variety of fresh pastries and delicious coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 10 CHF per person.
For lunch, head to Restaurant Schiff, a cozy restaurant overlooking Lake Lucerne. Enjoy traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue and rösti. Average cost for a meal is about 25 CHF per person.
For dinner, indulge in gourmet cuisine at Restaurant Balances. Located in a historic building, this restaurant offers a wide range of dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 50 CHF per person.
Monday, July 22: Interlaken
Travel to Interlaken, a picturesque town known as the gateway to the Swiss Alps. Start your day by taking a cable car to Harder Kulm, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. In the afternoon, visit the Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe, and experience the stunning beauty of the Alps. End the day by exploring the charming streets of Interlaken and indulging in some Swiss chocolate.
Jungfraujoch: Cost: CHF 235 (adult), CHF 118 (child), Time spent: Full day
Exploring Interlaken: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast in Interlaken, head to Cafe de Paris for a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 10 CHF per person.
For lunch, try the famous Swiss cheese fondue at Restaurant Schuh with its cozy atmosphere and traditional Swiss dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 25 CHF per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Restaurant Taverne. Enjoy exquisite Swiss cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant setting. Average cost for a meal is about 50 CHF per person.
Tuesday, July 23: Zermatt
Head to Zermatt, a car-free village located at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn mountain. In the morning, take a scenic train ride to Gornergrat and marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Explore the picturesque streets of Zermatt and enjoy lunch at one of the cozy mountain restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the history and mythology surrounding this famous mountain.
Gornergrat Train Ride: Cost: CHF 94 (adult), CHF 47 (child), Time spent: Half day
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe du Pont, located in the heart of Zermatt. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and a cup of aromatic coffee while taking in the charming mountain views. The average cost for a breakfast here is about 15 CHF per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Chez Vrony, a rustic mountain restaurant known for its authentic Swiss cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like raclette or schnitzel, accompanied by panoramic views of the Matterhorn. The average cost for a lunch here is about 40 CHF per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Restaurant Whymper-Stube, a cozy eatery offering a wide selection of Swiss and international dishes. From fondue to steak, the menu caters to various tastes, and the charming atmosphere creates the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening. The average cost for a dinner here is about 50 CHF per person.
Wednesday, July 24: Geneva
Travel to Geneva, the international hub of diplomacy and home to stunning lakeside views. In the morning, visit the Jet d'Eau, an iconic water fountain located on Lake Geneva. Explore the Old Town and discover medieval architecture and charming streets. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Natural History to learn about the diversity of Swiss wildlife. End the day by enjoying a relaxing boat ride on Lake Geneva.
Jet d'Eau: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Exploring Geneva Old Town: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Museum of Natural History: Cost: CHF 8 (adult), CHF 4 (child), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Lake Geneva Boat Ride: Cost: CHF 15 (adult), CHF 7.50 (child), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café du Centre, located in the heart of Geneva. This cozy café offers a variety of pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about CHF 15 per person.
For lunch, head to L'Entrecôte Saint-Jean, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering steak frites. Enjoy the tender steak accompanied by a secret sauce and indulge in the unlimited servings of crispy fries. Average cost for a meal is about CHF 30 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Les Armures, a historic restaurant situated in a 17th-century building. The elegant setting combined with traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette make it a perfect choice for a Swiss dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about CHF 50 per person.
Thursday, July 25: Lausanne
Visit Lausanne, a vibrant city located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Start your morning by visiting the Olympic Museum, where you can learn about the history of the Olympic Games and even try out some interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful gardens of the Lausanne Cathedral and enjoy panoramic views of the city. End the day by taking a leisurely stroll along the lively Ouchy Promenade.
Lausanne Cathedral Gardens: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Ouchy Promenade: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast in Lausanne, head to Café de Grancy, a cozy cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 CHF per person.
If you're looking for a great lunch spot in Lausanne, try out Brasserie de Montbenon, a charming restaurant located in a historic building. They offer a variety of Swiss and international dishes, and the average cost for a meal is about 25 CHF per person.
For a memorable dinner experience in Lausanne, La Table d'Edgard is a must-visit. This elegant restaurant serves exquisite French cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 60 CHF per person.
Friday, July 26: Basel
Travel to Basel, a city known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Start your day by visiting the Basel Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and beautifully landscaped exhibits. In the afternoon, explore the Kunstmuseum Basel, one of Switzerland's most important art museums. End the day by taking a relaxing boat ride on the Rhine River and enjoying the city's stunning architecture.
Rhine River Boat Ride: Cost: CHF 10 (adult), CHF 5 (child), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Basel Bistro: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Basel Bistro, located in the heart of the city. Enjoy their freshly baked croissants and a selection of gourmet coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
La Petite Brasserie: For lunch, head to La Petite Brasserie, a charming French-inspired restaurant offering a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect spot for a mid-day meal. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Riverside Grill: For dinner, treat yourself to a waterfront dining experience at Riverside Grill. With its stunning views of the Rhine River and a menu featuring a fusion of Swiss and international flavors, this restaurant is sure to impress. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the Aletsch Glacier in the Jungfrau region. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning views of the largest glacier in the Alps. Another hidden gem is the Lauterbrunnen Valley, known for its picturesque waterfalls and hiking trails. Families can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and even paragliding in this stunning natural landscape.
For a more cultural experience, visit the Swiss Museum of Games in La Tour-de-Peilz. This unique museum showcases traditional games from different regions of Switzerland and allows visitors to play and learn about these historical games. It's a great way to engage the whole family in a fun and educational experience.