Swiss Family Adventure

  • Day 1: Bern
    From Zurich: 1 hour 30 minutes (75 miles)

    Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the impressive Bern Cathedral from the 15th century, the interesting Einstein Museum, and the Old City center with its well-preserved sandstone buildings. Take a stroll along the Aare River or visit the Bear Park with the family.

  • Day 2: Lake Geneva
    From Bern: 1 hour 30 minutes (70 miles)

    The stunning Lake Geneva offers a scenic boat ride for the family. Visit the Chillon Castle to discover the history of the romantic medieval fortress. Take a stroll in the picturesque and charming Montreux town, enjoy fine dining, and see a memorable Freddie Mercury statue.

  • Day 3: Swiss Alps - Jungfrau Region
    From Lake Geneva: 3 hour 30 minutes (140 miles)

    The Jungfrau Region is known for its splendid, panoramic mountain views. Start with the charming Alpine village of Lauterbrunnen, then take a scenic train ride on the Jungfrau Railway to the Jungfraujoch for an unforgettable glacier adventure. Experience the Ice Palace and breathtaking views at the Top of Europe Observation Deck.

  • Day 4: Lucerne
    From Jungfrau Region: 2 hour 30 minutes (95 miles)

    Lucerne is a picturesque city by Lake Lucerne, known for its iconic Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument. Explore the Old Town with the family, visit the Swiss Museum of Transport, take a scenic boat ride in the lake and enjoy the mesmerizing scenery of the surrounding mountains.

  • Day 5: Rhine Falls
    From Lucerne: 1 hour 30 minutes (40 miles)

    The magnificent Rhine Falls is Europe’s largest waterfall situated in the Northern Swiss Alps. Take a thrilling boat ride to Laufen Castle and enjoy scenic views of the waterfall. Take a stroll in Schaffhausen town exploring its cobblestone streets, tall buildings covered in murals, and the significant Munot Fortress.

  • Day 6: Lake Thun
    From Rhine Falls: 3 hour (135 miles)

    Enjoy a family-friendly picnic at the serene Lake Thun with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. Take a scenic boat ride to Thun Castle, visit the Thun Panorama to experience the history of Switzerland’s oldest panorama, or bike around the lake to take in the stunning surroundings.

  • Day 7: Zermatt
    From Lake Thun: 2 hour 30 minutes (100 miles)

    The car-free Alpine town of Zermatt is a paradise for families to learn how to ski or to enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery. Discover the impressive Matterhorn Museum, take a cable car ride to Klein Matterhorn, and explore the charming Bahnhofstrasse. Enjoy a hot chocolate with a view at one of the many Swiss chalets.

  • Day 8: St. Moritz
    From Zermatt: 5 hour (200 miles)

    Visit the winter sports haven of St. Moritz, situated in the Swiss Alps. Take the panoramic train ride to the Engadine Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and winter activities. Walk around the charming St. Moritz Lake, explore the Olympic bobsled track, and take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snowy landscape.

  • Day 9: Zurich
    From St. Moritz: 3 hour 30 minutes (125 miles)

    End the trip in the largest Swiss city of Zurich. Explore its well-known landmarks including the stunning Church of Our Lady and the famous Bahnhofstrasse. Visit the widely-known Spruengli Chocolatier to indulge in Swiss chocolate delicacies. Enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Lake Zurich, visiting the Uetliberg Mountain for unforgettable views of the city and Swiss Alps.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Bern Cathedral (1 hour, Free)
  • Einstein Museum (2 hours, $15/adult, $5/child)
  • Chillon Castle (2 hours, $13/adult, $7/child)
  • Swiss Museum of Transport (3 hours, $14/adult, Free/child)
  • Rhine Falls Boat Ride (1 hour, $15/adult, $5/child)
  • Thun Castle (2 hours, $10/adult, $5/child)
  • Matterhorn Museum (2 hours, $10/adult, $5/child)
  • St. Moritz Lake Walk (2 hours, Free)
  • Spruengli Chocolatier Visit (1 hour, $15/adult, Free/child)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $105/adult, $27/child

Transportation

Traveling by rental car is the most convenient option, providing flexibility while allowing travel from one destination to another. It is recommended to book a car before arrival. Public transportation, such as trains and buses, are also efficient alternatives for individuals without driving licenses. Domestic flights can be an efficient way to travel between different regions. A Swiss Rail Pass allows travelers to take unlimited rides on Swiss public transportation.

Travel costs can range anywhere from $150-$300 depending on the mode and frequency of transportation.

Useful Tips

We recommend staying in or near larger cities such as Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne as they provide the best access to other destinations. Consider visiting Switzerland during the off-season (September to May) to avoid the crowds and save money.

Airports

Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the largest and busiest airport in Switzerland, ranking ninth in Europe, located approximately 12 miles north of Zurich city center. It offers flights to many destinations worldwide and provides extensive transport options to travel within Switzerland.

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