Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 52 travelers

9-Day Family-Friendly Switzerland Itinerary

Thursday September 7: Zurich

Start your Swiss adventure in the vibrant city of Zurich. In the morning, visit the historic Old Town (Altstadt) with its medieval buildings, churches, and quaint shops. Afterward, take a stroll along Lake Zurich and enjoy the picturesque views. In the afternoon, explore the Zurich Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals. As the evening approaches, head to Lindenhof Park, a peaceful oasis with panoramic views of the city.

  • Old Town: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Zurich Zoo: CHF 26 (adult), CHF 9 (child), 3-4 hours
  • Lindenhof Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday September 8: Lucerne

Take a scenic train ride to Lucerne, known for its stunning lake and mountain scenery. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Chapel Bridge, one of Switzerland's oldest wooden bridges. In the afternoon, explore the Swiss Museum of Transport, where you can learn about the country's transportation history through interactive exhibits. End the day with a relaxing boat ride on Lake Lucerne, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps.

  • Chapel Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Swiss Museum of Transport: CHF 32 (adult), CHF 16 (child), 2-3 hours
  • Lake Lucerne boat ride: CHF 10-15, 1-2 hours
Saturday September 9: Interlaken

Travel to Interlaken, a gateway to the Swiss Alps. Start your day with an exhilarating adventure at Jungfraujoch, also known as the "Top of Europe," where you can experience stunning views from Europe's highest railway station. In the afternoon, visit the Trummelbach Falls, a series of impressive waterfalls inside a mountain. End the day with a leisurely walk around Lake Brienz, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

  • Jungfraujoch: CHF 235 (round trip), 5-6 hours
  • Trummelbach Falls: CHF 11 (adult), CHF 4 (child), 2-3 hours
  • Lake Brienz: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café de la Place, located in the heart of Interlaken. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about CHF 15 per person.
  • For a satisfying lunch, head to Restaurant Pasta & More. They offer a variety of pasta dishes with homemade sauces and fresh ingredients. Don't forget to try their signature garlic bread. The average cost for a meal is about CHF 20 per person.
  • For a delightful dinner experience, dine at Restaurant Schuh. This cozy restaurant specializes in traditional Swiss cuisine, serving dishes like fondue and raclette. Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace while savoring the flavors of Swiss delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about CHF 35 per person.
Sunday September 10: Bern

Explore the capital city of Switzerland, Bern. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Bear Park, home to Bern's famous bears. Afterward, wander through the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the medieval architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Zytglogge, a historic clock tower, and enjoy the panoramic views from its top. End your day with a relaxing walk along the banks of the Aare River.

  • Bear Park: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Old Town: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Zytglogge: CHF 15 (adult), CHF 5 (child), 1-2 hours
Monday September 11: Geneva

Travel to Geneva, a cosmopolitan city located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Start your morning with a visit to the United Nations Office, where you can take a guided tour and learn about international diplomacy. In the afternoon, explore the Jet d'Eau, a famous water fountain on the lake, and take a relaxing boat ride. End the day by strolling through the picturesque Old Town and enjoying a delicious Swiss chocolate tasting.

  • United Nations Office: CHF 18 (adult), CHF 10 (child), 2-3 hours
  • Jet d'Eau: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Old Town: Free, 2-3 hours
Tuesday September 12: Lausanne

Visit the vibrant city of Lausanne, situated on the hilly shores of Lake Geneva. Start your day with a visit to the Olympic Museum, where you can explore the history of the Olympic Games. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along Lausanne's waterfront promenade, enjoying the scenic views. End your day with a visit to the Lausanne Cathedral, an impressive Gothic masterpiece.

  • Olympic Museum: CHF 18 (adult), CHF 10 (child), 2-3 hours
  • Waterfront promenade: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Lausanne Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday September 13: Zermatt

Head to Zermatt, a charming mountain village nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. Start your morning by taking a cable car ride to Gornergrat, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. In the afternoon, explore the quaint streets of Zermatt and visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the area's mountaineering history. End your day with a relaxing hike or horse-drawn carriage ride in the picturesque countryside.

  • Gornergrat: CHF 94 (round trip), 4-5 hours
  • Matterhorn Museum: CHF 10 (adult), CHF 5 (child), 1-2 hours
  • Hike or horse-drawn carriage ride: Free or additional cost, 2-3 hours
Thursday September 14: Basel

Visit the cultural hub of Basel, located on the Rhine River. Start your morning with a visit to the Basel Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral with panoramic views from its tower. In the afternoon, explore the Fondation Beyeler, an art museum known for its impressive collection. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Rhine River promenade, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Basel Minster: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Fondation Beyeler: CHF 25 (adult), free for children under 19, 2-3 hours
  • Rhine River promenade: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday September 15: Zurich

Return to Zurich and spend your final day exploring more of this vibrant city. Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland's most important art museums, in the morning. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Zurich, soaking up the scenery. End your trip by enjoying a traditional Swiss meal at a local restaurant and reminiscing about your wonderful Swiss adventure.

  • Kunsthaus Zurich: CHF 25 (adult), free for children under 16, 2-3 hours
  • Lake Zurich boat ride: CHF 10-15, 1-2 hours
  • Traditional Swiss meal: CHF 20-40 per person

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Switzerland, don't miss the charming town of Montreux, known for its annual jazz festival and the stunning Chillon Castle. Another hidden gem is the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, offering incredible views and hiking opportunities. Locals also love the village of Grindelwald, surrounded by majestic mountains and offering various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. These off the beaten path attractions are perfect for families looking to explore Switzerland's natural beauty.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version