12-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Switzerland and Italy Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland

10:00AM

Lake Zurich Stroll

Start your adventure with a refreshing walk along the scenic shores of Lake Zurich, where stunning views await.
Begin at Bellevue Square and stroll along the lakeside promenade.
CHF0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Brunch at Cafe Sprüngli

Savor delicious Swiss pastries and hot chocolate at this iconic cafe in Zurich.
Walk to Cafe Sprüngli, located at Paradeplatz.
CHF50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Swiss National Museum

Engage with Swiss culture and history through interactive exhibits that are family-friendly.
Take tram line 6 from Paradeplatz to Museumsstrasse.
CHF30, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Old Town (Altstadt)

Wander through the charming medieval streets full of shops and traditional Swiss architecture.
Walk from the museum back to the Old Town area.
CHF0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zeughauskeller

Indulge in hearty Swiss cuisine at this historic restaurant housed in a former armory.
A quick stroll from Old Town, located on Zeughausstrasse.
CHF120, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Lucerne Explorations

Lucerne, Switzerland

8:00AM

Travel to Lucerne

Catch a morning train from Zurich to Lucerne, a picturesque journey through the Swiss countryside.
Take a train from Zurich HB to Lucerne.
CHF25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel des Balances

Enjoy a delightful breakfast overlooking Lake Lucerne at this charming hotel.
Walk to the hotel from the train station.
CHF60, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Chapel Bridge

Walk through the iconic Chapel Bridge adorned with historical paintings.
Located just a short stroll from the hotel.
CHF0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Wirtshaus Taube

Taste classic Swiss dishes at this cozy restaurant in the heart of Lucerne.
Walk to Wirtshaus Taube, located near the Chapel Bridge.
CHF80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Swiss Transport Museum

Discover the history of transportation in Switzerland with hands-on exhibits for kids.
Short walk from lunch to the museum.
CHF40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Lake Cruise

Relax on a scenic steamboat cruise across Lake Lucerne, admiring the picturesque mountains.
Board the cruise at the Lucerne ferry terminal.
CHF50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Fritschi

Enjoy a traditional Swiss meal in a cozy ambiance, perfect for families.
Short walk from the ferry terminal.
CHF110, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventures in Interlaken

Interlaken, Switzerland

8:00AM

Travel to Interlaken

Travel from Lucerne to Interlaken by train, enjoying beautiful Alpine scenery.
Catch the train from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost.
CHF30, 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe de Paris

Start your day with a delightful Swiss breakfast in this charming café.
Located a short walk from Interlaken Ost station.
CHF50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Harder Kulm Visit

Take the funicular to Harder Kulm for breathtaking views of Interlaken and the surrounding mountains.
Board the funicular from the base station near Interlaken Ost.
CHF38, 2.5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant

Enjoy lunch with panoramic views of the Alps, a perfect spot for families.
Located at the top of Harder Kulm.
CHF100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Interlaken & Stroll

Return to Interlaken and take a leisurely stroll along the Aare River.
Take the funicular back down to the base.
CHF38, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Husi Bierhaus

Dine at a family-friendly restaurant serving delicious Swiss and international dishes.
Short walk from the river to the restaurant.
CHF90, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Zermatt Wonders

Zermatt, Switzerland

8:00AM

Travel to Zermatt

Journey from Interlaken to Zermatt via scenic train ride.
Catch a train from Interlaken to Täsch, then shuttle to Zermatt.
CHF50, 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Monte Rosa

Start your day at this historic hotel with stunning views of the Matterhorn.
Located near the main street of Zermatt.
CHF70, 1 hour

12:30PM

Gornergrat Railway

Ride the Gornergrat railway for breathtaking views of the Alps, a must-do for the family.
Board the train from Zermatt Gornergrat station.
CHF60, 3 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at Gornergrat Summit Restaurant

Enjoy lunch with stunning mountain views at the highest restaurant in the region.
Located at Gornergrat while you’re at the summit.
CHF100, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Explore Zermatt Village

Stroll through the charming car-free village of Zermatt, exploring shops and sights.
Walk from the train station through the village.
CHF0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Omnia

Dine at this upscale restaurant offering a family menu with a Swiss twist.
Located a short walk from the village center.
CHF120, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Ciao Milan!

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Travel to Milan

Leave Zermatt and take the scenic train to Milan, Italy's fashion capital.
Catch a train from Zermatt to Milan.
CHF70, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at Pasticceria Marchesi

Indulge in exquisite pastries and coffee at this historic Milanese pasticceria.
Located near the Duomo.
CHF50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Duomo di Milano

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Milan's cathedral, allowing kids to climb to the roof for great views.
Short walk from the pasticceria to Duomo.
CHF15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Taste delicious Panzerotti at this popular eatery, a favorite among locals.
Short walk from Duomo.
CHF40, 1 hour

5:30PM

Sforza Castle Exploration

Explore the castle grounds and museums, perfect for adventurous kids.
Take a tram or walk from Luini to the castle.
CHF30, 2.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Enjoy hearty Milanese dishes in a traditional dining atmosphere.
Just a short walk from Sforza Castle.
CHF90, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Beautiful Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

8:00AM

Travel to Lake Como

Take a train from Milan to the beautiful town of Como, enjoying scenic views.
Board the train to Como San Giovanni.
CHF15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Ricci

Enjoy local pastries and coffee at this charming pasticceria in Como.
Located a short walk from the station.
CHF40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Villa Olmo

Visit this beautiful villa and stroll through its gardens overlooking Lake Como.
Walk from the pasticceria to Vila Olmo.
CHF10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Gatto Nero

Dine at this restaurant with stunning panoramic views of the lake, perfect for families.
Take a taxi or bus to the restaurant.
CHF100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Boat Tour of Lake Como

Experience Lake Como from the water on a scenic boat tour, which is fun for all ages.
Depart from the Como ferry terminal.
CHF40, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Bellagio

Explore the picturesque village of Bellagio with its cobbled lanes and charming shops.
Take the ferry from Varenna or Lenno to Bellagio.
CHF25, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Silvio

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at this family-friendly restaurant in Bellagio.
Located near the waterfront.
CHF90, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Ghosts of Venice

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Travel to Venice

Leave for Venice from Lake Como by train, ready for an enchanting day.
Take a train from Varenna to Venice Santa Lucia.
CHF40, 3 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at Caffè Florian

Delight in a historic breakfast experience at one of the oldest cafes in the world.
Located in St. Mark's Square.
CHF60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Gondola Ride

Experience a magical gondola ride through Venice’s iconic canals with the family.
Board gondolas at various points throughout Venice.
CHF80, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Savor local seafood dishes in a cozy ambience, perfect for a family lunch.
A bit of a walk from St. Mark’s.
CHF100, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Doge's Palace

Explore the impressive Doge's Palace and learn about Venetian history.
Short walk from lunch.
CHF25, 2 hours

6:30PM

Explore Rialto Bridge

Take a stroll to the iconic Rialto Bridge, enjoying views of the Grand Canal.
A pleasant walk from Doge's Palace.
CHF0, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Al Gatto Nero

Dine at a lovely trattoria serving classic Venetian dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Located on the island of Burano, reachable by vaporetto.
CHF90, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Florence Wonders

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Travel to Florence

Take a scenic train ride from Venice to Florence, immersing yourself in the Tuscan countryside.
Catch a train from Venice Santa Lucia to Santa Maria Novella.
CHF40, 2 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Rivoire

Enjoy traditional Tuscan pastries and coffee at this charming café.
Located near Piazza della Signoria.
CHF50, 1 hour

12:30PM

Explore Uffizi Gallery

Wander through the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums, ideal for older kids.
Short walk from breakfast.
CHF20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Experience a foodie paradise with plenty of family-friendly options in this vibrant market.
A short walk from Uffizi to Mercato Centrale.
CHF70, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

Marvel at the Florence Cathedral's stunning dome and learn about its history.
Walk from the market to Piazza del Duomo.
CHF15, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Stroll across Ponte Vecchio

Take a leisurely stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, taking in the views of the Arno River.
Located near the Duomo.
CHF0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Mario

Finish your day at this popular trattoria known for its Tuscan flavors and family-friendly vibe.
Just a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio.
CHF80, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Pisa and the Leaning Tower

Pisa, Italy

9:00AM

Travel to Pisa

Enjoy a short train journey from Florence to Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower.
Board the train from Santa Maria Novella station.
CHF20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Climb the iconic Leaning Tower and take memorable family pictures.
Located in the Piazza dei Miracoli.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Buca

Enjoy local Tuscan cuisine in a cozy setting, perfect for family lunch.
Short walk from the tower.
CHF70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Piazza dei Miracoli

Stroll through the beautiful square and admire the stunning architecture.
Walk around the square.
CHF0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria De'Coltelli

Cool off with delicious gelato at this local favorite after touring the city.
Located near the square.
CHF10, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Return to Florence

Head back to Florence for the evening, preparing for your next adventure.
Take the train back to Santa Maria Novella.
CHF20, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

End your day with traditional Florentine dishes in a rustic atmosphere.
A short walk from the Santa Maria Novella station.
CHF90, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Roman Holiday

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Travel to Rome

Board a train from Florence to Rome, gearing up for amazing sights.
Take a train from Santa Maria Novella to Termini.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Regoli

Start with traditional Italian pastries and coffee at this renowned bakery.
Walk from Termini to the bakery.
CHF30, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit the Colosseum

Wander through the ancient ruins of the Colosseum and let the kids' imaginations run wild.
Short walk from the bakery to the Colosseum.
CHF20, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Enzo

Savor authentic Roman pasta dishes at this cozy trattoria.
Short walk from the Colosseum.
CHF60, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Roman Forum

Stroll through the ruins of the Roman Forum, learning about ancient Rome's history.
Adjacent to the Colosseum.
CHF20, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Gelato at Giolitti

Enjoy a refreshing gelato from one of Rome's most famous gelaterias.
Short walk from the Forum.
CHF10, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Aroma

Dine at this rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Colosseum.
A short taxi from the Forum.
CHF120, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Vatican City

Vatican City

9:00AM

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Discover the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica and climb to the dome for panoramic views.
Short walk from your accommodation in Rome.
CHF10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at Caffè Vaticano

Enjoy a delicious brunch at this cafe located near the Vatican.
Walk to Caffè Vaticano.
CHF40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Vatican Museums

Explore the extensive art collections of the Vatican Museums known for the Sistine Chapel.
Enter the Vatican Museums from the gardens.
CHF30, 2.5 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Hostaria da/Pincio

Savor authentic Roman cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Located just outside the Vatican Museums.
CHF70, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Vatican Gardens

Unwind in the serene gardens after a busy day of exploring.
Enter from the gardens’ entrance.
CHF20, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at I Pizzichi

Indulge in flavorful Italian pizzas that the whole family can enjoy.
Located nearby the Vatican.
CHF90, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Departure Day

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Antico Caffè Greco

Enjoy a classic Italian breakfast at this historic café before your journey home.
Located on Via dei Condotti.
CHF50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Pack and Relax

Take some time to relax and pack for your departure.
Return to your hotel for check-out.
CHF0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Transfer to Airport

Depart for the airport—say goodbye to your unforgettable adventure in Switzerland and Italy.
Utilize your hotel’s shuttle service or taxi.
CHF50, 1 hour
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