Family-Friendly Switzerland Itinerary for 5 Days

  • Day 1: Mt. Pilatus
    2 hours 30 minutes (106 km) from Zurich

    Take a scenic train ride to the top of Mt. Pilatus for panoramic views of endless alpine landscapes. Admire the gorgeous scenery from different vantage points and hike around the area suited for families.

  • Day 2: Lake Geneva
    2 hours 40 minutes (225 km) from Mt. Pilatus

    Take a refreshing break at the lake where visitors can swim, indulge in water sports like skiing, windsurfing, and boating, and have a picnic on the shore. Lake Geneva is famed for its tranquil atmospheres and must-do boat tours.

  • Day 3: The Matterhorn
    2 hours 50 minutes (230 km) from Lake Geneva

    The most famous alpine mountain in the country, the Matterhorn is a great place for a family hike, with carefully marked trails and beautiful views of the countryside. Make it more enjoyable with a cable car ride to the top and a visit to the Glacier Palace, an ice-filled cavern that is home to interactive ice sculptures.

  • Day 4: Rhine Falls
    1 hour 40 minutes (145 km) from the Matterhorn

    The Rhine Falls, Europe's biggest waterfall situated in Neuhausen, attracts visitors from all over the world. Enjoy a refreshing boat ride over the waters, dip into the Swiss folklore and history with the Rhine Falls Info Center and Museum, and take plenty of pictures.

  • Day 5: Aquaparc
    2 hours 40 minutes (206 km) from Rhine Falls

    A fun-filled water theme park for young and old, Aquaparc features an extensive variety of pools, river currents, and water slides. It's the perfect place to unwind after a long trip and to finish off the Switzerland family adventure.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mt. Pilatus (5 hours, CHF 160)
  • Lake Geneva (6 hours, CHF 80)
  • The Matterhorn (10 hours, CHF 220)
  • Rhine Falls (4 hours, CHF 30)
  • Aquaparc (6 hours, CHF 150)
  • Total Estimated Costs: CHF 640

Transportation

Switzerland has a fantastic transportation system with trains and buses providing easy access to almost every corner of the country. Consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains and buses throughout the country. The Pass cost begins at CHF 232 for three days, with discounts for families.

Useful tips

For those with more than five days, some additional attractions to visit are the Chateau de Chillon, Lauterbrunnen Valley, and Lucerne. If you only have four days, you can skip the Aquapark, and cut down on the activities you already did in previous days. Hotels and restaurants are very expensive in Switzerland, find accommodation and dine-in with local recommendations.

Airports

Zurich International Airport (ZRH) is Switzerland's major international airport, located 13 km north of Zurich. The airport is connected to the city by rail, road and tram, making getting to the city center easy. Moreover, It has several services available for babies, children, and disabled travelers, including changing tables, play areas, and assistance services.

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