7-Day Family Friendly Adventure: Rome to Switzerland on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arriving in Rome

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Explore the Colosseum

Begin your Roman adventure by walking to the iconic Colosseum, where the echoes of ancient gladiators await.
Via dei Fori Imperiali, walk from your accommodation.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Colosseum, wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum, transporting you back in time.
Exit the Colosseum and walk to the Forum.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Baffetto

Savour authentic Roman pizza at one of the city’s best pizzerias in a family-friendly setting.
Walk 15 minutes from the Forum.
EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Pantheon

Make your way to the Pantheon, known for its stunning dome, and enjoy the interior beauty for free.
Take a bus or walk for 20 minutes.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax in Piazza Navona

End your day at the lively Piazza Navona, perfect for kids to run around amidst beautiful fountains.
A short walk from the Pantheon.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Enzo

Enjoy local pasta dishes in a traditional trattoria that won’t break the bank.
Take a short walk to Trastevere.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria Della Palma

End your evening with a delicious gelato from a renowned gallery in the heart of Rome.
Short walk from the trattoria.
EUR5, 30 minutes
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Day 2: Discovering More of Rome

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Vatican Museums

Arrive early to avoid lines and explore the artistic treasures of the Vatican Museums.
Take the metro to Ottaviano.
EUR17, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

St. Peter's Basilica

Visit the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, where entry is free but be mindful of the dress code.
Short walk from the Vatican Museums.
FREE, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Forno Campo de' Fiori

Grab delicious pizzas or pastries for a quick and budget-friendly lunch.
Walk 15 minutes to Campo de' Fiori.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Spanish Steps

Head towards the famous Spanish Steps where your kids can enjoy some downtime.
Metro to Spagna.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Window-shop at Via del Corso

Take a leisurely stroll down Rome's main shopping street, ideal for exploring stores without spending much.
Walk down Via del Corso.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Alice Pizza

Enjoy a casual dining experience with tasty pizza slices that are perfect for families.
Walk to Trastevere for dinner.
EUR25, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening Stroll by the Tiber River

Finish your day with a peaceful walk along the beautiful Tiber River.
Walk along the riverbank.
FREE, 1 hour
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Day 3: Final Day in Rome

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Visit the Trevi Fountain

Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to Rome someday!
Walk from your accommodation.
FREE, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Villa Borghese

Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Villa Borghese and let the kids play.
Take a bus to the park entrance.
EUR6 (for the garden’s attractions), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pincio Terrace

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a stunning view of the city.
Enjoy lunch within the park.
EUR10 (for supplies), 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Galleria Borghese

See artworks by Caravaggio and Bernini in this small yet rich museum (reservation needed).
Walk to the museum within the park.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Final Shopping at Mercato di Campo de' Fiori

Pick up some souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this market.
Bus to Campo de' Fiori.
FREE (cost depends on purchases), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

Relish homemade pasta in a lively setting – a great end to your Roman days.
Walk 15 minutes from the market.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Train to Milan

Say goodbye to Rome as you board a budget train to Milan for the next adventure.
Head to the train station.
EUR30, 3 hours
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Day 4: Ciao Milano

Milan, Italy

12:00PM

Arrive in Milan

Get settled and stretch your legs before setting out to explore the city.
Walk from the train station to your accommodation.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Try the famous panzerotti in this beloved local spot.
Walk for 10 minutes.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Milan Cathedral

Explore the stunning architecture of the Duomo di Milano, a must-see for families.
Walk to the cathedral.
EUR15 (for rooftop access), 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Sempione Park

Let the children play in the vast parkland just behind the castle.
Walk to the park.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Antonio

Enjoy a hearty Italian meal in this family-friendly eatery.
Walk back towards the city centre.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria La Dolce Vita

Cool off with some delicious gelato to end your day.
Just a short walk away.
EUR5, 30 minutes
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Day 5: Scenic Lucerne

Lucerne, Switzerland

8:00AM

Train to Lucerne

Depart from Milan towards Lucerne, taking in the views of the Swiss countryside.
Board a direct train from Milan.
CHF30, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Wirtshaus Galliker

Experience traditional Swiss fare at this charming local restaurant.
Walk 15 minutes from the train station.
CHF25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Lake Lucerne

Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne, where children can play by the water's edge.
Walk to the lakefront.
FREE, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Chapel Bridge

Walk across the famous Chapel Bridge and snap family photos in this picturesque setting.
Short walk from the lake.
FREE, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax in Musegg Wall

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the historical Musegg Wall, where kids can run freely.
Walk to the wall.
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Stern

Enjoy delightful Swiss cuisine in a cosy atmosphere suitable for families.
Walk back near the lake.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Stroll by the Lake at Sunset

Take a peaceful post-dinner stroll along Lake Lucerne as the sun sets over the mountains.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
FREE, 1 hour
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Day 6: Marveling at Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland

8:00AM

Train to Zurich

Depart for Zurich in the morning, a short trip from Lucerne.
Board a direct train from Lucerne.
CHF15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Zurich Walk

Enjoy a leisurely morning walk along Lake Zurich, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.
Walk from the train station to the lakefront.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Zurich Old Town

Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where kids can enjoy a magical atmosphere.
Continue walking into the Old Town.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Indulge in hearty Swiss dishes in this traditional eatery filled with history.
Walk to the restaurant in Old Town.
CHF30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Swiss National Museum

Explore Swiss cultural history, offering engaging exhibits perfect for families.
Walk to the museum.
CHF10 (reduced fee for kids), 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Lindenhof

Take a break in this serene park which overlooks the city, ideal for relaxing.
Walk to Lindenhof.
FREE, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Raclette Stube

Experience Swiss cheese fondue, perfect for the entire family to share.
Walk back to the Old Town.
CHF50, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Tram Ride

End your day with a delightful tram ride around Zurich to see the city by night.
Catch the tram near your restaurant.
CHF10, 1 hour
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Day 7: Final Day in Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland

8:00AM

Visit Uetliberg Mountain

Take a short train up Uetliberg for panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Train from Zurich HB to Uetliberg.
CHF12, 3 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Uto Kulm

Enjoy lunch with a view on top of the mountain at Uto Kulm.
Walk to the restaurant.
CHF30, 1 hour

12:30PM

Descend and Relax in Zurich Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful Botanical Gardens, perfect for family enjoyment.
Train back to the city and walk to the gardens.
FREE, 2 hours

2:30PM

Explore Fraumünster

Admire the stunning stained glass windows of this remarkable church, a treat for every visitor.
Short walk from the gardens.
CHF5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Farewell Dessert at Confiserie Sprüngli

Indulge in delicious Swiss chocolate and sweets as a sweet send-off for your journey.
Walk to Confiserie Sprüngli.
CHF20, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Zeughauskeller

Enjoy a final hearty dinner in Zurich offering traditional Swiss meals.
Walk back to Zeughauskeller.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Departure

Say goodbye to Zurich, ending your memorable trip filled with unforgettable family experiences.
Head to the airport or train station.
Depends on travel mode, Variable
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