6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Switzerland on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bäckerei Schober

Start your day with some delicious pastries and hot chocolate at this charming bakery.
Located in the Old Town, just a short walk from the lake.
CHF15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Swiss National Museum

Immerse your family in Swiss history and culture at this fascinating museum with engaging exhibits.
A 15-minute walk from the bakery.
CHF12 (Children under 16 free), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hiltl

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian buffet at the world's oldest vegetarian restaurant—truly a treat for everyone!
A 10-minute tram ride from the museum.
CHF20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through Bahnhofstrasse

Shop or window shop along one of the world's most famous shopping streets while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Walking distance from Hiltl.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lake Zurich Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along Lake Zurich, soaking in the stunning views and fresh mountain air.
Just a 5-minute walk from Bahnhofstrasse.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Zeughauskeller

Savor traditional Swiss dishes in a historic atmosphere that is family-friendly.
A quick 10-minute walk from the lake.
CHF25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Discover Lucerne

Lucerne, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Ville

Start your day with a simple yet delightful breakfast of bread, cheese, and coffee.
Located near the train station.
CHF12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Chapel Bridge

Walk across this iconic wooden bridge adorned with romantic paintings, a great photo opportunity for the family!
A 5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Lion Monument

See the poignant sculpture of a dying lion carved into a sandstone rock, commemorating fallen Swiss Guards.
A 15-minute walk from Chapel Bridge.
Free, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Lunch at Mövenpick Restaurant

Grab a casual but hearty meal with options for everyone, including salad and pizza.
A short walk back towards Lake Lucerne.
CHF20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Rosengart Collection

Marvel at the works of Picasso and other masters in this beautiful collection that kids will find fascinating.
A 10-minute walk from lunch.
CHF12 (Under 16 free), 2 hours

3:30PM

Boat Ride on Lake Lucerne

Take a scenic boat ride on the magnificent lake, a relaxing experience for the whole family.
Board at the pier near the Rosengart Collection.
CHF15 for a round trip., 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Fritschi

Enjoy Swiss specialties like fondue and raclette in a warm family atmosphere.
A 10-minute walk from the pier.
CHF25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventuring in Interlaken

Interlaken, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Restaurant Taverne

Fuel your adventure with a solid breakfast that includes eggs, toast, and coffee.
Close to the train station.
CHF15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Harder Kulm

Take the funicular railway to the viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Jungfrau Region.
A short walk to the train from the restaurant.
CHF38 (Children half price), 2 hours including travel

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Walkers

Relaxed spot offering simple lunch options like sandwiches and salads.
Return to Interlaken and walk 5 minutes.
CHF20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Aare River

Stroll along the riverbanks where kids can spot ducks and enjoy the natural beauty.
A 10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Take a Swiss picnic

Grab some local bread, cheese, and fruits from a nearby market and enjoy a riverside picnic.
Purchase items from the local grocery store, just a few minutes’ walk.
CHF15, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The 3 Tells

A cozy restaurant with affordable meals where you can enjoy local Swiss dishes.
A 10-minute stroll back towards town.
CHF25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Charming Grindelwald

Grindelwald, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Grund

Start the day with fresh bread and butter plus Swiss cheese, enjoying the mountain view.
5-minute walk from your accommodation.
CHF10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit First Cliff Walk

Experience stunning views and a thrilling walkway at this exhilarating site.
Take the gondola (check schedule).
CHF22 (Children half price), 2 hours including travel

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Eiger

Enjoy affordable mountain cuisine with scenic terrace seating.
Downstairs from the Cliff Walk exit.
CHF25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking in Grindelwald

Choose from a variety of family-friendly trails that showcase breathtaking landscapes.
Ask at the tourist office for recommended trails.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Grindelwald

Head back to relax and take in the evening atmosphere.
Walk back towards your accommodation.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Grill

A family-friendly restaurant with barbecue specialties, catering to kids and adults alike.
Short stroll from your accommodation.
CHF25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Bern

Bern, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café am Zytglogge

Enjoy a light breakfast of pastries and local coffee in the heart of Bern.
Near the famous Zytglogge clock tower.
CHF10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bear Park

Spend some time watching bears in a beautiful park setting—kids will love it!
A 10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Bern’s Old Town

Wander around the UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its quaint streets and beautiful buildings.
Just around the corner from the Bear Park.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurant Rosengarten

Relax and enjoy sandwiches or salads with a lovely view over the city.
15-minute walk uphill.
CHF20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Einstein Museum

Explore the life and work of Albert Einstein, a fun and educational experience for your family.
Return to Old Town, about 10 minutes walking.
CHF12 (Under 16 free), 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Free Time at Emmental

Explore the picturesque countryside around Bern; consider a short hike or playground visit.
A 30-minute tram ride to Emmental.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Lötschberg

Finish your day with a casual dining experience serving authentic Swiss dishes.
Return to Bern center by tram.
CHF25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Final Day in Geneva

Geneva, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Broken Chair

Enjoy a simple breakfast with fresh bread, coffee, and pastries, overlooking the iconic broken chair monument.
Located near the lakeside.
CHF15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jet d’Eau and Parc des Bastions

See the stunning water fountain and enjoy the park's beautiful grounds—a fun, relaxed morning.
A 10-minute walk from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Town

Wander through narrow streets and historical buildings, making sure to visit St. Pierre Cathedral.
A 10-minute walk from the park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Pouty

Indulge in some delicious Swiss-style street food and crepes at this family-oriented spot.
A short walk from the Old Town.
CHF20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit UN Headquarters

Take a guided tour of the United Nations office, educating your family about global cooperation.
A tram ride from the restaurant (check tram schedules).
CHF15 (Under 18 free), 1.5 hours

4:15PM

Relax by Lake Geneva

End your trip with a lovely walk by the lake, enjoying the peaceful settings and views.
Short walk from the UN office.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Café du Soleil

Conclude your Swiss adventure with a cheese fondue dinner at one of Geneva's most beloved restaurants.
A tram ride to the location.
CHF30, 1.5 hours
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