14-Day Family-Friendly Scenic Hiking and Driving Adventure in Switzerland Starting and Ending in Zurich

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Zurich, Switzerland on May 27, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Sprüngli

Start your Swiss adventure with a delightful traditional Swiss breakfast at Café Sprüngli, famous for its Luxemburgerli macarons and rich hot chocolate.
CHF25, 1h

10:30am

Explore Old Town (Altstadt)

Take a leisurely walk through Zurich's Old Town, exploring medieval lanes, historical churches, and charming shops. A perfect family-friendly introduction to the city’s culture.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Enjoy a traditional Swiss meal in this historic armory-turned-restaurant, renowned for its hearty dishes like Rösti and sausages.
CHF30, 1h

2:30pm

Lake Zurich Promenade Walk

Stroll along the picturesque promenade of Lake Zurich, with parks and playgrounds ideal for families. Enjoy views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Hiltl

Dine at Hiltl, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, offering a variety of healthy and tasty plant-based dishes suitable for all ages.
CHF35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Scenic Hiking Near Zurich

Zurich / Uetliberg, Switzerland on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Babu's Bakery & Coffeehouse

Fuel up with fresh pastries and quality coffee at this family-friendly bakery in Zurich before heading to the hills.
CHF20, 45m

9:30am

Uetliberg Trail Hike

Enjoy an easy, family-friendly hike up to Uetliberg Mountain, which offers panoramic views over Zurich and the Alps. The trail is well-marked and suitable for kids.
CHF12 (train fare), 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Uto Kulm

Dine at the mountaintop hotel restaurant with stunning vistas, serving Swiss specialties like fondue and fresh salads.
CHF40, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Zurich and visit the Swiss National Museum

Explore Swiss cultural history through engaging exhibits perfect for families, showcasing artifacts and art in a castle-like building.
CHF10 per adult, free under 16, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Swiss Chuchi

Taste classic Swiss dishes like raclette and fondue in a cozy, family-friendly setting in the Old Town.
CHF35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Drive to Lucerne and Lake Adventure

Lucerne, Switzerland on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Henrici

Enjoy fresh coffee and delicious pastries in Lucerne’s historic center as you prepare for a day of scenic exploration.
CHF20, 45m

9:30am

Drive from Zurich to Lucerne

Take a scenic 1-hour drive along the beautiful Swiss countryside heading south to Lucerne, a picturesque city on Lake Lucerne.
CHF20 (toll and fuel approx.), 1h

11:00am

Walk the Chapel Bridge and Old Town Lucerne

Explore Lucerne’s historic wooden bridge and charming medieval Old Town, full of history and family-friendly attractions.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Wirtshaus Galliker

Savor traditional Swiss dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere popular for fresh local ingredients.
CHF30, 1h

2:00pm

Boat Cruise on Lake Lucerne

Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour family-friendly boat ride on Lake Lucerne, surrounded by stunning mountains and lakeside villages.
CHF25 adults, CHF12 children, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport

Explore this engaging interactive museum focusing on all modes of transport, perfect for children and adults alike.
CHF32 adults, CHF9 children, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Stern Luzern

Dine on diverse Swiss and international dishes in a warm and relaxed setting suitable for families.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Lucerne to Interlaken - Scenic Drive & Hiking

Interlaken, Switzerland on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your Lucerne hotel before setting off for the day’s adventure.
Usually included in hotel stay, 1h

8:30am

Drive via Brünig Pass to Interlaken

Take a scenic 1.5-hour drive through Brünig Pass, offering captivating views of lakes and alpine pastures, en route to Interlaken.
CHF20-30 (approximate fuel/toll), 1h30m

10:30am

Easy Hike at Harder Kulm

Ride the funicular up to Harder Kulm, then enjoy short family-friendly trails with panoramic views of Interlaken and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
CHF38 funicular ride, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant

Dine with stunning vistas of Interlaken and surrounding peaks, with a menu suitable for kids and adults.
CHF35, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Höhematte Park & Interlaken Town

Explore Interlaken’s central park with open spaces and playgrounds perfect for children, as well as boutique shopping.
Free, 1h

5:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant Taverne

Enjoy local Swiss cuisine with a family-friendly menu in a cozy setting downtown Interlaken.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 5: Jungfrau Region Hiking

Lauterbrunnen / Jungfrau, Switzerland on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day early with breakfast at the hotel in Interlaken to prepare for a full day of hiking and sightseeing.
Usually included, 1h

8:30am

Train to Lauterbrunnen and Cable Car to Grütschalp

Take a scenic train ride to Lauterbrunnen and then cable car to Grütschalp, the gateway to famous family-friendly hiking trails.
CHF30 approx. round trip, 1h

9:30am

Hike from Grütschalp to Mürren

Enjoy a relatively easy and scenic 1.5 to 2-hour hike suitable for families, offering breathtaking views of the valley and mountains.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch in Mürren at Hotel Eiger Restaurant

Relax with traditional Swiss dishes overlooking the mountainous scenery in this charming alpine village.
CHF30, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Mürren Village and Visit Trummelbach Falls

Discover the quaint, car-free mountain village followed by a short drive to Trummelbach Falls, Europe's glacier waterfalls inside the mountain.
CHF12 entrance for falls, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Interlaken and Dinner at Bebbis Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere offering Swiss and international dishes for a relaxed evening meal.
CHF35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Drive to Zermatt - Village and Nature

Zermatt, Switzerland on June 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast before departure for your drive to Zermatt, a car-free mountain village at the foot of The Matterhorn.
Usually included, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Interlaken to Täsch (car parking)

Take the 2.5-hour scenic drive to Täsch, the nearest car access point before proceeding to Zermatt, which is car-free.
CHF40 fuel/toll, 2h30m

10:30am

Train shuttle from Täsch to Zermatt

Use the frequent 12-minute shuttle train to reach Zermatt’s car-free village center, perfect for walking and hiking.
CHF8 per person, 15m

11:00am

Explore Zermatt Village

Wander Zermatt’s charming streets, visiting shops and cafes with views of the iconic Matterhorn mountain.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant Schäferstube

Taste authentic Valais specialties such as raclette and dried meats in a cozy alpine setting.
CHF35, 1h

1:30pm

Family-friendly hike to Gorner Gorge

Enjoy an easy 1-hour hike to this stunning natural gorge, with walkways safe and exciting for children and adults alike.
CHF5, 1h

4:00pm

Optional Matterhorn Museum Visit

Explore the fascinating local history, mountaineering stories, and geology lessons suitable for all ages.
CHF10, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant Whymper-Stube

Finish your day with traditional and comforting Swiss alpine cuisine in a family-friendly environment.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 7: Mountain Adventure in Zermatt

Zermatt, Switzerland on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast early to take advantage of the full day in the mountains.
Usually included, 1h

8:30am

Gornergrat Railway Ride

Family-friendly cog railway ride up to Gornergrat (3,089m) with spectacular views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks, suitable for all ages.
CHF90 adults, CHF45 children, 1h30m

10:00am

Short Hike from Gornergrat

Take an easy panoramic trail from Gornergrat station, perfect for families to admire glaciers and mountain peaks safely.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kulmhotel Gornergrat

Enjoy stunning views alongside traditional meals and kid-friendly options at this historic mountaintop hotel restaurant.
CHF40, 1h

2:00pm

Descend and visit Ice Pavilion

Discover a fascinating glacier ice cave at the base of the Matterhorn, fun and educational for the whole family.
CHF10, 1h

4:00pm

Relax in Zermatt Village and Shopping

Spend the afternoon exploring local shops, enjoying cafes, or resting in the peaceful village environment.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Omnia Mountain Lodge

Enjoy modern Alpine cuisine with a cozy vibe, perfect for families seeking something special for dinner.
CHF50, 1h30m
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Day 8: Drive to Montreux - Lake Geneva Region

Montreux, Switzerland on June 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Eat a filling breakfast at the hotel before your drive toward the beautiful Montreux area.
Usually included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Montreux via Simplon Pass

Take a scenic approximately 3-hour drive through alpine valleys and high mountain passes to reach the shores of Lake Geneva at Montreux.
CHF50 fuel/toll approx., 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Montreux Lakeside Promenade

Grab fresh fish and regional delicacies at a lakeside restaurant while enjoying views of the deep blue waters.
CHF35, 1h

1:30pm

Walk the Montreux Lakeside Promenade and Visit Chillon Castle

Stroll along the family-friendly lakeside promenade before exploring the iconic Chillon Castle, open until 6:00pm and perfect for kids to learn about medieval history.
CHF14 adults, CHF7 children, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Montreux town center

Relax at a cafe or do light shopping in this charming town famous for its jazz festival and gardens.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Café Très

Enjoy delicious Mediterranean-inspired meals in a welcoming family atmosphere close to the lake.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 9: Lavaux Vineyards and Hiking

Lavaux, Switzerland on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a relaxed breakfast in Montreux before venturing into the Lavaux vineyard terraces.
Usually included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Lavaux Vineyards

Short 20-minute drive or train ride to one of the most beautiful UNESCO-listed terraced vineyards above Lake Geneva.
CHF10 approx., 20m

9:30am

Family-Friendly Hike through Lavaux Vineyards

Enjoy gentle walking trails with spectacular views of vineyards and the lake, perfect for children to explore nature safely.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Domaine Bovy

Taste locally produced wines and fresh regional dishes with kid-friendly options at this welcoming vineyard restaurant.
CHF40, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Lausanne Olympic Museum

Head to Lausanne to visit the Olympic Museum, a fascinating interactive experience excellent for families, open until 6:00pm.
CHF18 adults, CHF10 children, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Montreux and Dinner at Le Palais Oriental

Experience a blend of Moroccan and Swiss cuisine in a unique atmosphere suitable for families.
CHF45, 1h30m
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Day 10: Scenic Drive and Hiking in Bernese Oberland

Bernese Oberland, Switzerland on June 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a nourishing breakfast to prepare for a day of scenic driving and hiking in Bernese Oberland.
Usually Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Lauterbrunnen Valley via scenic routes

Enjoy a 1.5 hour drive through mountain routes with stunning vistas and plenty of stops for photos and short walks.
CHF20 fuel/toll, 1h30m

10:00am

Easy Family Hike to Staubbach Falls

Take a family-friendly trail to Staubbach Falls, one of Switzerland’s highest free-falling waterfalls, perfect for a nature walk.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Staubbach

Dine with views of the waterfall and enjoy Swiss specialties in a casual family setting.
CHF30, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Grindelwald and Explore Village

Short drive to Grindelwald to enjoy the alpine village charm and optional walking paths by the Bachalpsee lake.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Barry's Restaurant & Pizza

Treat your family to comfort food including pizza and Swiss favorites in a friendly and informal environment.
CHF35, 1h30m
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Day 11: Drive Back Towards Zurich via Emmental

Emmental / Zurich, Switzerland on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in the mountains before heading back toward Zurich through the Emmental region.
Usually Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Emmental

Drive roughly 2 hours through Emmental, known for its rolling hills and cheese farms, perfect for a family stop.
CHF20 fuel/toll, 2h

10:30am

Visit Emmental Cheese Factory

Tour a traditional Emmental cheese farm where kids and adults alike can learn about cheese-making and sample delicious products.
CHF15, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Gasthof Hirschen

Enjoy homemade Swiss comfort food in a cozy countryside inn surrounded by picturesque views.
CHF30, 1h

2:00pm

Drive back to Zurich

Return to Zurich via scenic routes, taking approximately 1 hour.
CHF20 fuel/toll, 1h

3:30pm

Free time and shopping in Zurich

Relax or explore Zurich’s vibrant shopping districts, perfect for last-minute souvenirs and family strolls.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Kronenhalle

Celebrate your Swiss adventure with classic Swiss dishes in an iconic Zurich restaurant famous for its art and historic atmosphere.
CHF60, 2h
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Day 12: Zurich Relaxation and Departure Prep

Zurich, Switzerland on June 7, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Leisurely breakfast at your Zurich accommodation to start your day calmly.
Usually Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Zurich Zoo

Family-friendly visit to Zurich Zoo, featuring the Masoala Rainforest and various animal habitats, fun and educational for kids, open 9am-6pm.
CHF30 adults, CHF15 children, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Restaurant Olives

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes in the zoo’s restaurant, convenient for families after a morning of exploration.
CHF35, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Lake Zurich Park

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Zurich’s lakefront parks where children can play and families can picnic or bike ride.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Rosengarten

Dine with a lovely view over Zurich and the lake, offering a varied menu and a relaxed atmosphere ideal for families.
CHF45, 1h30m
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Day 13: Day Trip to Rhine Falls

Schaffhausen / Rhine Falls, Switzerland on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast in Zurich in preparation for a day trip to Europe’s largest waterfall.
Usually Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive or Train to Rhine Falls

About a 1-hour drive or train journey to Schaffhausen to visit stunning Rhine Falls, accessible and stroller friendly.
CHF40 transportation approx., 1h

9:45am

Explore Rhine Falls

View the powerful waterfall from multiple platforms, take a boat ride close to the falls or enjoy easy walking paths, open 8am -7pm.
CHF5 entrance, CHF15 boat ride, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Schlössli Wörth

Dine at this restaurant near the falls offering regional dishes with beautiful river views.
CHF40, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Schaffhausen Old Town

Wander through the medieval streets, adorned with painted facades and quaint shops, suitable for family strolls.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Zurich

Drive or train ride back to Zurich, preparing for your final evening in Switzerland.
CHF40 transportation approx., 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Swiss Chuchi

Enjoy your final dinner in Zurich with classic Swiss fondue or raclette in a cozy family-friendly restaurant.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 14: Departure Day

Zurich, Switzerland on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Final Swiss breakfast at your hotel for a last taste of the local delights.
Usually Included, 1h

9:00am

Leisurely Morning Walk at Zurich Botanical Garden

Take a peaceful stroll around the botanical garden before heading to the airport, a relaxing way to end the trip.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Transfer to Zurich Airport

Head to the airport for your departure flight, allowing plenty of time for check-in and security.
CHF10 taxi or train, 1h
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