best places to visit in switzerland with family

21 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland with Kids (2024)

Are you thinking of visiting Switzerland with kids ?

Switzerland is a treasure trove of beautiful scenery, picturesque towns, and adventurous outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for a family vacation.

On a family holiday to Switzerland, there’s a huge variety of things to do, from exploring the Swiss Alps to cruising on Lake Lucerne and stepping into the historic centre of various Swiss cities .

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Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland with Kids + Things to do

With an abundance of activities, from historical tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites to outdoor adventures in the mountains, Switzerland offers a fascinating blend of cultural and natural wonders that promise a memorable experience for the whole family.

1. Take the Cable Car to Alpine Herdsman’s Playground

When you get a cable car to Alpine Herdsman’s Playground , you’ll look out over beautiful valleys dotted with cobblestone streets, old town charm and surrounded by the majesty of snow-capped mountains.

The kids will be entertained by the stunning views from the cable car station up to the playground, which is a fantastic place. The garden features a variety of outdoor adventures suitable for adventurous kids, including a scavenger hunt and a vast garden.

 The playground is located 5-6 minutes from Wengen on an aerial cableway ride from the centre.

2. The Bernina Express (One Way)

As one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland, a ride on the Bernina Express is a must. This train ride through the Swiss Alps offers beautiful landscapes and an experience your entire family will never forget.

The Bernina Express is more than just a train ride. It’s a journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in Switzerland. The route is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, winding through mountains and picturesque villages and offering an up-close look at the stunning view of the Swiss Alps.

The Bernia Express is over 4 hours, so if you are travelling around Europe, I will use the Bernia Express to transport you to Italy for the next leg of your trip! From there, you can travel to Milan and Lake Como.

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Switzerland:

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3. Engelberg

Engelberg, a car-free town in Central Switzerland, is a beautiful city known for its surrounding mountains and beautiful gardens. A visit to Engelberg is an easy day trip from Zurich and a great destination.

In Engelberg, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, mountain coasters, and snow sports. Pack your hiking boots and prepare for an easy hike that provides fantastic views of the mountain peaks.

Your young kids and older kids alike will love the children’s playgrounds dotted around the town. Who knows, you may even see one of the national animals of Switzerland !

Engelberg also offers several family-friendly attractions, including the Swiss Open Air Museum and the historic centre, where you can learn about the history of Switzerland for kids.

While in Engelberg, make sure you visit Titlis , one of the best mountain trips in Switzerland!

4. Bern Bear Park

Visiting Bern Bear Park is one of the best days out for kids in Switzerland. It is home to a family of bears living in a beautiful, spacious park setting, and the city centre’s location means it’s an accessible and exciting stop for the whole family.

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is famous for its clock tower, beautiful city views, and cobblestone streets, so there’s much to explore before or after visiting the park.

Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, offers a unique blend of Swiss and Italian cultures. It’s known for its beautiful lake, Lake Lugano, and the surrounding mountains, providing a stunning landscape that will captivate the entire family.

The city is an excellent destination for a family vacation in Switzerland, as it offers many outdoor activities such as hiking and boating and boasts a historic centre filled with delicious food and beautiful gardens.

6. Mountain Rigi – A Switzerland Train Adventure

Known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” Rigi is one of the most famous mountains in Switzerland and one of the top 10 attractions in the country.

Taking a cogwheel train to the top of Mount Rigi is a must for any Switzerland family vacation.

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This train ride offers beautiful views of Lake Lucerne, Zurich, and the Swiss Alps. Once at the top, your can enjoy various activities, such as hiking, picnicking, and even sledging in the winter.

7. Boat Ride on Lake Lucerne, Switzerland with Kids

The picturesque Lake Lucerne, located in Central Switzerland, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it one of the most famous spots in Switzerland .

A boat ride on Lake Lucerne is one of the top things to do in Lucerne with kids . It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and a unique perspective on the surrounding picturesque towns and majestic mountains.

The Swiss Travel Passes can be used for unlimited boat rides, making it a fantastic way to save money on your family vacation in Switzerland.

8. Hop on Hop off Bus in Zurich

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, has activities for children and teens. A day trip around Zurich will keep kids entertained with beautiful playgrounds, educational stops at the museum, and delicious food options around the city.

A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a convenient way to explore the city, allowing you to visit major attractions at your own pace. Highlights include the Zurich Zoo, the Swiss National Museum, and the historic old town.

I loved this tour; I did the bus tour in the morning and visited the Lindt chocolate factory in the afternoon.

Read our complete guide to visiting Zurich with Kids here

9. Jungfraujoch

Taking a train ride to Jungfraujoch is one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland. Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” is home to the highest train station in Europe.

The train ride offers beautiful views of the Swiss Alps and picturesque towns.

Once at the top, you can visit the Ice Palace, walk through the snow tunnel, or enjoy a restaurant with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

A trip to Jungfraujoch is a memorable adventure activity for the whole family, offering stunning views and snow sports in a beautiful landscape.

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10. Ski School

Switzerland is famous for its ski resorts.

If you’re visiting Switzerland in winter, enrolling your kids in a ski school could be one of the most exciting things.

Swiss ski schools are well-equipped to teach children of all ages, ensuring they learn in a safe and controlled environment.

11. Zurich Lidnt Museum

Visiting the Lindt Museum is a must if you’re in Zurich with kids. At the museum, the entire family can learn about the history of Swiss chocolate and see how it’s made.

What’s more, everyone gets to sample the delicious product! First, you’ll learn about the history; then you can try melted chocolate, followed by chocolate buttons and then the finished product.

🤩 Get your tickets here >>>

12. Alpamare Water Park

Located near Zurich, Alpamare Water Park is Europe’s largest indoor water park and an excellent destination for family fun. The park offers something for everyone, from thrilling water slides for adventurous kids to a wellness area for parents.

A day at Alpamare is a crazy, fun-filled experience that will surely be one of the top things to remember from your family vacation in Switzerland.

13. St Moritz

St Moritz is one of Switzerland’s most famous ski resorts, offering many activities beyond skiing.

The beautiful town has picturesque streets and stunning valley views, making it an excellent destination for a day trip or a more extended stay.

Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and even horse riding in the summer.

As well as Chur, St Moritz is another main stop on the Bernina Express.

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14. Zermatt

Zermatt, a car-free town located at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world, is another must-see location when visiting Switzerland with kids.

The town is known for its ski resorts, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery.

You can take a cable car or a train to Gornergrat for some of the most stunning views in Switzerland. There’s also the Glacier Paradise, a world of ice, snow, and rock, which can be visited throughout the year.

15. Mount Titlis

Located in Central Switzerland, Mount Titlis is a popular destination for bottles and tourists.

To reach the top, you’ll need to take a cable car ride, which is an experience there; you can walk across the highest suspension bridge in Europe, explore an ice cave, or enjoy the breathtaking views.

Mount Titlis also offers a variety of winter sports, making it a great place to visit on a Switzerland family vacation.

Basel, located at the border of France and Germany, offers a unique blend of three cultures. It is a beautiful city known for its museums, including the Tinguely Museum and the Kunstmuseum, the oldest art collection in the world.

The city’s historic centre is well-preserved and charming, and a visit to the Basel Zoo, the oldest and largest in Switzerland, is one of the top things to do in Basel with kids .

17. Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport

Located in Lucerne, the Swiss Museum of Transport features a variety of exhibits related to all types of transport, including planes, trains, automobiles, and even space travel. It’s an educational and entertaining place to keep the whole family engaged for hours.

18. Visit the Christmas Markets in Switzerland

One of the most beautiful and substantial Christmas markets in Switzerland is that of Basel, located on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.

Basel was chosen as the best Christmas market in Europe and the best Christmas market in Switzerland for 2021.

It’s located in the city centre and has a lot of different things to do. There are many booths selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. If you decide to have a fantastic time with your family, visit Basel with your kids .

Basel Christmas Market offers a lot of entertainment for children, like puppet shows and rides, ice skating on a frozen river that runs through the city centre or visiting Santa Claus at his crib.

You can read more about the best Christmas markets in Switzerland here

19 Ballenberg Open Air Museum

The Ballenberg Open Air Museum is excellent for learning about Swiss culture and history. The museum features over 100 original buildings from all over Switzerland, transported here and carefully reconstructed.

Children can enjoy hands-on exhibits, traditional crafts demonstrations, ad interaction with farm animals. It’s like stepping back in time and a fantastic educational experience for kids.

20. Château de Chillon

The Château de Chillon, located on the shore of Lake Geneva, is a historic castle that offers a fascinating journey into Switzerland’s past.

It’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Switzerland , and children will be captivated by the grandeur of the castle and its many rooms, towers, and dungeons.

It’s the perfect place for children interested in history and tales of knights and princesses.

21. Swiss Vapeur Amusement Park

Swiss Vapeur Parc is a miniature railway park in Le Bouveret, Switzerland.

The main attraction of Swiss Vapeur Parc is its miniature steam trains, which run over 1.5 kilometres of track through the park’s various landscapes, including a Swiss village, a mountainous region, and even a replica of the Matterhorn.

Swiss Vapeur Parc is particularly good for kids because it offers a unique and exciting experience, allowing them to ride on miniature steam trains and explore the park’s various landscapes.

There are also several other attractions and activities for kids, such as a playground, a mini-golf course, and a petting zoo.

In addition to the park’s attractions, Swiss Vapeur Parc is also known for its picturesque setting, surrounded by stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Visitors can also take a boat ride on Lake Geneva or visit the nearby Chillon Castle, one of the best castles in Switzerland .

Map of the Best Places to Visit on Family Vacations to Switzerland

Tips for Planning a Family Vacation to Switzerland with Kids

Switzerland is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, but like any trip, it requires careful planning. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your adventure:

Choose the Right Time to Visit

Switzerland is a year-round destination, with skiing and snow sports in the winter and hiking, cycling, and sightseeing in the summer.

Consider your family’s preferences and the activities you’d like to do when deciding when to visit.

When we visited in March, it wasn’t too cold, and you could still see snow going up the scale cars to the mountain peaks.

Pack Appropriately

Switzerland’s weather can be changeable, so it’s best to pack layers. Don’t forget to pack essentials like hiking boots for mountain adventures and swimwear for visits to water parks or lakes.

Plan for Your Children’s Ages

Switzerland offers a wide range of activities suitable for children of all ages. Consider the ages and interests of your children when planning your itinerary.

For younger kids, consider destinations with plenty of open spaces, playgrounds, and easy hikes.

For older kids and teens, consider more adventurous activities like mountain biking or visiting a high-adrenaline amusement park.

How to Get Around Switzerland

Navigating through Switzerland is a breeze thanks to its world-class transportation infrastructure. Whether you opt for the Swiss Travel Pass or rent a car, your journey across this beautiful country will be seamless and scenic.

Switzerland by Train

Travelling through Switzerland by train is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful experiences. The train routes are exceptionally scenic, winding through picturesque towns, stunning valleys, and beautiful lakes.

The Swiss rail network is highly efficient, with frequent services to even the smallest cities.

The Swiss Travel Pass

Offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland for a selected number of days, plus free admission to over 500 museums.

This is great value if you are planning to do LOTS of exploring during your trips. Make sure you add up the cost of the attractions and trains on your trip to see if the pass is worth it.

🤩 Get Your Travel Pass Here >>>

Swiss Half Fare Card

Provides a 50% discount on train, bus, and boat travel within Switzerland for 1 month. This is perfect if you have a longer stay in Switzerland. Children under 16 travel free is an adult has this pass.

🤩 Get your Card Here

Saver Day Pass

Offers unlimited travel on public transport for a day at a discounted price when booked in advance.

Interrail and Eurorail Passes

Interrail (for European residents) and Eurail (for non-European residents) passes offer a cost-effective and flexible way to experience the Lucerne to Geneva route and beyond. There are different types of passes available. T

he global pass covers 33 European countries, suitable for those planning extensive travel across Europe.

This can be flexible (e.g. 7 days within a month) or continuous for 15 days to 3 months. The one country pass is ideal for focusing on a single country.

For families that prefer more flexibility, renting a car is another viable option. Switzerland’s roads are well-maintained and well-marked and offer some of the most stunning drives in the world, with beautiful scenery all around.

This gives you the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions at your own pace.

However, it’s important to note that driving in Switzerland does require careful planning. Some Swiss cities, like Zermatt and parts of Lucerne, have car-free zones, and parking can be tricky and expensive in city centres.

You must also be prepared for mountain driving conditions, especially if visiting in winter.

How to Get to Switzerland

Switzerland is conveniently located in the heart of Europe and is well connected to its neighbours by various transportation options.

Airports in Switzerland

Switzerland has several international airports, including Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. These airports offer flights to and from destinations all over the world. The airports themselves are well-served by public transport, making reaching your hotel or destination easy upon arrival.

Read More: How to Get from Geneva Airport to City Center

Find Your Perfect Flight to Switzerland Here >>>

Getting to Switzerland from the U.S.

The most convenient way to get to Switzerland from the United States is by air. Switzerland has two main international airports, Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA), both of which are served by numerous airlines offering both direct and connecting flights from the U.S.

Direct flights to Zurich are available from several U.S. cities, including New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Similarly, Geneva also has direct flights from a few U.S. cities, including New York.

The flight duration depends on your starting point in the U.S., but direct flights usually range from 7-11 hours. Connecting flights, which typically stop in major European cities like London, Paris, or Frankfurt, will take longer.

Upon arriving in Zurich or Geneva, you will find an array of transportation options available to get you to your final destination. These include trains, buses, rental cars, and taxis.

Another option for travelling to Switzerland from the U.S., although far less common, is to travel by sea. This is usually done as part of a transatlantic cruise. After the cruise, you can travel to Switzerland by rail or air from the cruise port city.

Travel by Train

If you’re travelling from a neighbouring country, getting to Switzerland by train is enjoyable and eco-friendly.

Many European cities have direct train connections to Swiss cities, providing not just a means of transport but a picturesque journey across some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.

🤩 Get Your Train Tickets Here >>>

For families travelling from within Europe, consider purchasing a Eurail Pass. This pass offers unlimited train travel within and between many European countries, including Switzerland, and can be a cost-effective way of getting around, especially for larger families.

Driving to Switzerland

Driving to Switzerland from neighbouring countries is another way to reach your Swiss vacation.

The country shares borders with Italy, France, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein, all of which have excellent road links with Switzerland. Remember to check local driving regulations before you embark on your road trip.

🚗 Check Car Rental Availability for Your Dates Here >>>

Buses to Switzerland

Long-distance buses like Flixbus or Eurolines also connect many European cities with Switzerland. While the journey is often longer than by train or car, buses can offer a more budget-friendly alternative, especially for families.

Where to Stay in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to family-friendly resorts, vacation rentals, and mountain chalets.

Cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne offer numerous hotels within walking distance of major attractions. For a more authentic Swiss experience, consider staying in a mountain chalet in the Swiss Alps.

Always check if the hotel or resort offers family-friendly amenities like children’s menus, babysitting services, or a kids’ club.

We enjoyed staying in Zurich, Geneva and Lucerne for a more city break-based holiday with day trips to the mountains. However, if you want to stay off the beaten path, try staying in the villages.

Switzerland with a Baby

Travelling to Switzerland with a baby can be a rewarding experience with a bit of planning. Swiss cities are generally baby-friendly, with changing facilities in most public restrooms.

When planning your activities, consider your baby’s routine. Schedule downtime and try not to pack too many activities into one day. Baby carriers are useful for hiking or visiting towns with cobblestone streets where strollers might not be practical.

Switzerland with a Toddler

Switzerland with a toddler can be a ton of fun. There are countless playgrounds across the country, and many attractions offer interactive exhibits or activities for young children. Most Swiss restaurants provide high chairs and kids’ menus.

From my personal experience, our toddler particularly enjoyed the boat ride on Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Museum of Transport. Remember to pack some familiar snacks, a comfort item, and plenty of activities to keep them entertained during travel times.

Eating out in Switzerland with Kids

Eating out in Switzerland is a beautiful way for the family to experience Swiss culture. Swiss food is hearty and delicious, with specialities like fondue, raclette, and rösti. Kids usually love Swiss chocolate and pastries, too.

Final Words

Switzerland is more than just stunning landscapes and delicious food. It’s about the experience of discovering a new culture, exploring beautiful cities, and creating unforgettable memories with your family.

Whether taking a boat ride on Lake Zurich, wandering through the old town of Geneva, or ascending the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps via a cable car ride, there’s something for every family member in Switzerland.

Plan Your Swiss Adventure

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Discover Switzerland

The 9 best switzerland cities to visit in 2024 [the family edition], exactly how to get from geneva airport to city centre in 2024 (and vice versa), best things to do in zurich with kids + 2024 city break guide, what is the national animal of switzerland, exactly how to get from zurich to lucerne in 2024, exactly how get from lucerne to geneva in 2024.

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Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The 9 Best Switzerland Cities to Visit in 2024 [The Family Edition]
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Plan Your Perfect Summer 7- to 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary With Kids

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With experiences on land, lakes, and in the air, this 7- to 10-day Switzerland itinerary with kids this summer has something for everyone! Nestled between Germany, France, Austria, and Italy, you will find the charming country of Switzerland. Famously known for its chocolate, cheese, and of course, the majestic Alps, it’s a fantastic destination on many families’ travel bucket lists. Even though it is a small country, it’s still packed with culture, charm, and kid-friendly activities! But how to begin to plan a Switzerland itinerary with kids? This article covers how to plan a fun-filled 7- to 10-day Switzerland itinerary with kids and what to expect, including stunning scenery and plenty of activities for all ages. From the chic, cosmopolitan city of Zurich to the country’s Jungfrau region, your family will surely find some fantastic locations to enjoy. Keep reading to find out more! 

Fly to Zurich

If you’re wondering about the best way to reach Switzerland with kids, keep reading! It’s common for families to fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) , as it’s the largest international airport in Switzerland. Zurich Airport, also known as Kloten Airport, is about 8 miles north of Zurich’s city center, making it very easy to get to your hotel after landing. It’s also very modern, with many services and facilities for families to enjoy upon arrival. Be sure to exchange some money once you arrive, grab your rental car or hop on the train, and head on your way. 

Oftentimes flights from the U.S. arrive in the morning, so you may have the whole day to explore. Hopefully, your hotel will accommodate you to drop your baggage off so you can begin exploring the city of Zurich!

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A Perfect 7- to 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary with Kids

Looking for the ultimate family adventure that’s packed full of breathtaking scenery, exciting activities, and endless opportunities for exploration? Then buckle up and get ready to Plan Your Perfect 7- to 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary with Kids! With so many wonderful travel opportunities in Switzerland, this itinerary only scratches the surface of the best places in Switzerland with kids. Feel free to mix and match your favorite train rides, cogwheel excursions, lakeside towns to mountainside villages, and many thrill-seeking adventures! Lastly, this is a great itinerary for those looking to experience the best of Switzerland and explore several lovely Swiss cities and towns with kids.

Here are 13 Amazing Towns and Villages To Visit With Your Family In Switzerland !  

Day 1: Take in the City of Zurich

As your family may experience jet lag for a night or two, it’s best to start your Switzerland itinerary in Zurich , Switzerland’s largest city. Depending on how much energy you have, drop your bags off at your hotel and wander the beautiful cobblestone streets of old town Zurich. 

Head toward Bahnhofstrasse , which is a famous shopping street. Take in the old buildings, luxury shops, and boutiques as you meander toward Lake Zurich . As you continue to stroll around, head over the Quaibruecke and cross the Limmat River as you make your way toward Fraumunster Church . Don’t miss the famous stained-glass windows by artist Marc Chagall!

If the kids are begging for a break, be sure to stop in a Swiss cafe and bakery to enjoy an energy boost as you continue your stroll through the old town. You can also stop by one of the many famous chocolate shops; some of the most popular are Spruengli and Confiserie Teuscher . Add Grossmunster Church, another iconic Zurich landmark, as you walk toward Niederdrof.  

Niederdorf is a lively pedestrian area where you can explore the narrow streets and alleys in this area of town and admire many of the historical buildings. Don’t miss the Haus zum Rueden , the Helmhaus , and the Zunfthaus zur Hause. Be sure to take in St. Peter’s Church , where you can climb the tower to get a great view of the city and the surrounding area before you find the perfect restaurant to enjoy your first Swiss meal. Maybe you will choose Bratwurst, Roesti, or even a Fondue.

Other Things to Do in Zurich with Kids

Families with more time to spend in Zurich should visit the Swiss National Museum just outside of the Old Town. This museum is a great starting point for your family to learn more about Swiss culture and the history of Switzerland. Your kids will love seeing the variety of artifacts and costumes in the various exhibits at this family-friendly museum. After your time at the museum, let the kids run around and play on Lindenhof Hill, where you can all enjoy the beautiful Zurich skyline. There’s also a Roman fort for kids to explore.  

If your little kids love zoos, add the Zurich Zoo to your Switzerland itinerary with kids. The beautiful 90-year-old zoo offers 380 animal species, including savannah and rainforest enclosures and an aquarium. All of this in a seeming oasis that can easily be reached from the heart of the city. This could be one of the best places in Switzerland for kids to visit while in Zurich!

On a rainy day, pop your head into the small, but wonderful Spielzeugmuseum , or Toy Museum. This kid-friendly museum offers a large collection of toys from different time periods, and your little ones will delight in seeing dolls, trains, and board games from times past. Or, duck into one of the many restaurants and cafes to choose from as well along Limmat River, where kids can feed the swans and parents can people watch. 

Another great option on a rainy day, or just to experience Swiss chocolate, is to tour the Lindt & Sprüngli Chocolate Factory . You can enjoy a tasting and a tour at one of the most famous chocolate factories in Switzerland, located in Kilchberg, just outside of Zurich. 

Where to Stay in Zurich with Kids

Wondering where to stay in Zurich with kids? The city has several family-friendly accommodations, including Widder Hotel , Storchen Zurich , and The Dolder Grand . Alternatively, Zurich Marriott Hotel is another excellent option.

RELATED: Best Family-Friendly Hotels In Zurich: Where To Stay For A Memorable Vacation With Kids

Day 2: Schaffhausen, Rhine Falls, Munot Fortress

After a good night’s sleep, everyone will be ready to head to a new location on your Switzerland itinerary with your kids. Hop on the train or drive toward Schaffhausen , where you will spend the day at the powerful Rhine Falls . Once you arrive, be sure to visit the visitor center, where you can learn about the history and geology of the area and the falls. Kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits as they learn more about the history of the area.

Plan to take a boat ride, where your family can ride to the large rock near the middle of the falls where the powerful, cascading water will spray your family! This will be sure to provide for a fun family memory and picture opportunity at one of the best places in Switzerland with kids. 

Then, warm up and dry off a bit as you stroll through the town of Schaffhausen to grab a traditional Swiss meal for lunch. Afterward, get a sneak peek at one of the most beautiful Townhaus of Switzerland, Haus zum Ritter . If you have more time in your afternoon, add Schaffhausen’s landmark, the Munot Fortress , to your visit to the area. From the fortress, you can get a view of the city and the River Rhine. If you stay until 9 p.m., you will also delight in the sounds of the Munot Fortress bell ringing for 5 minutes, hand-rung for those 5 minutes just like it has been done since 1589.  

Additional Activity: Rhine Falls Adventure Park 

If your family wants a more adventurous experience, enjoy the Rhine Falls Adventure Park , which offers activities for your thrill-seeking family members. Balance from tree to tree on fifteen different courses and even plunge in free fall from a 13-meter platform! The Big Swing will dare you to swing in the middle of the forest. For unforgettable views of the Rhine Falls, check out the flight on the “Panorama Express.” There are truly so many wonderful ways to spend the day in Schaffhausen on your Switzerland itinerary with kids! 

RELATED : Top 8 Family-Friendly Destinations in Austria for an Unforgettable Vacation With Kids

Day 3: Lucerne

Lucerne is a must-stop for families on your 7- to 10-day Switzerland itinerary with kids! This picturesque city, with the historic Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument as its backdrop, is perfect for families looking to discover the charm of central Switzerland. 

Lake Lucerne is picturesque and offers many options for boat tours. A short one-hour tour will suffice if you are short on time with your 7-day Switzerland itinerary with kids, but if you have more time, a longer trip is well worth it. Taking a boat tour of the lake gives a different perspective of the region while you can see many of the mountain tops, enjoy the breeze and see many of the Swiss towns and villages along the way. 

Make a stop in Vitznau for its beautiful view of Mount Rigi. Take a historical twist, and ride the first mountain railway, which opened in 1871; the Vitnau-Rigi Kulm cogwheel railway . This starts right at the shores of Lake Lucerne, so it is a perfect addition to your boat ride. Children up to the age of 16 travel for free with an accompanying adult on six of the Rigi railways . Add a stop at one of the playgrounds at Rigi Scheidegg, Rigi Burggeist , and Rigi Kaltbad so your kids can stretch their legs and visit one of the best places in Switzerland with kids. To add a family hike , pick one of the thematic trails, such as the Gnome Trail or the South Side Safari. Enjoy beautiful scenery, playground and hikes, and a relaxing boat ride back to Lucerne.  

Other Things to Do in Lucerne with Kids

If your time in Lucerne is cold and rainy, don’t despair! The Swiss Museum of Transport is a top museum for kids to explore and one of the best places in Switzerland for kids. Your family can learn about different forms of transportation, including planes, trains, and automobiles. The planetarium and film theater offers a special experience as well.

Or, visit the Glacier Garden , the perfect spot for your kids. Young children to teenagers will enjoy a journey back in time. Enter the portal that transports you to a petrified seashore where you will see fossilized seashells and palm fronds or discover the huge potholes in the Lucerne sandstone. For an extraordinary experience, be sure to take your family through the mirror maze. This maze is inspired by the Alhambra in Granada, Spain. The labyrinth offers an illusion of the Moorish palace and garden, and through the maze, you will encounter yourself again and again in a fun and confusing way.

With teens, consider taking a bike tour around Lucerne. It’s a wonderful way to see the beautiful city and adds a little spice to your vacation. There are also many rental shops in the city or even guided bike tours if that is more your style. Teens may also enjoy a visit to the Picasso Museum , which is located in a beautiful old building that is worth visiting on its own. 

Additional Activity: Nature and Animal Park Goldau

If you have time to add a day to your Switzerland itinerary with kids, stop in Goldau at the Nature and Animal Park Goldau . Nestled in the heart of a stunning Swiss valley, this park is home to over one hundred animal species that roam free within their natural habitats. One favorite among kids is the animal free-range area, where you can feed sika deer and mouflons. Or, a visit to Blue Pond to feed the water birds and fish. What a unique family experience you don’t want to miss!

Day 4: Mount Pilatus  

If you have another day in Lucerne, add a ride on the cogwheel train up to Mount Pilatus ! From Kriens, ride a series of two panoramic gondolas and a cableway to get to the top of Mt. Pilatus. This is one of the best places in Switzerland for kids for a fun adventure for both young and old alike! The fun-filled ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and the lake below. Find playgrounds, hiking trails, ropes course, and even the longest toboggan run in Switzerland along the way. There’s also a small ropes course that is perfect for young children at the first station, Kriendseregg. 

If you’re traveling with older kids or are looking for more of an adventure, head up to the second station, at Fräkmüntegg , where you will find the more advanced ropes course. This is also where you will find the longest toboggan run in Switzerland, Fräkigaudi . What a thrill to ride down the mountain, past the grazing cows! The cowbells are music to the ears and quintessentially Swiss. 

Days 5+: The Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau region is a popular tourist destination in Switzerland and is a must-see on your Switzerland itinerary with kids. It consists of two valleys near Interlaken: Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. The highest mountain in this region of the Berner Oberland is Jungfrau, and then notably, Eiger and Moench also dominate the region. The draw to the area is hiking, mountain biking, and many extreme adventure sports, such as paragliding or skydiving, as well as quintessential villages that are picturesque and truly depict Switzerland. Here are some mix-and-match ideas to plan days 5 through 10 of your Switzerland trip itinerary with kids.

RELATED : What To Pack For A European Vacation With Toddlers

Interlaken , literally meaning “between two lakes”, is the perfect stop for your next adventure in Switzerland. It’s also a fantastic option to make your home base while visiting the Jungfrau area. Outdoor adventures abound in this region, where you can hike, spend time on the water, and even paraglide off the mountainside. If you spend the day in Interlaken and breathe in the surrounding beauty, you will want to add these places to your visit!

Photo Courtesy (L-R): Kathryn Skondin, Amanda Short

Learn how to make chocolate from the finest and attend a chocolate-making workshop for kids and adults at Funky Chocolate Workshops . You can even make your own chocolate to take home. What a delicious gift to give someone back home, but likely it won’t make it that far!

If you are looking for information about the traditional architecture and way of life of different regions in Switzerland, visit the Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg in Brienz, about a 20-minute drive from Interlaken. Kids will love to learn about traditional crafts, see farm animals, and play in the children’s area.

If your trip didn’t allow for a ropes course experience on Mt. Pilatus, visit the Ropes Park Interlaken . With a children’s course as well as higher routes, it’s the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy. Add some fun with the zip lines and the swings throughout the course. Be sure to make a reservation!

Murren and Allmendhubel

Murren is a charming Swiss village without cars. Perched on an alpine balcony with pastures surrounding the village, it’s a beautiful place to spend an extra day on the Switzerland itinerary with kids. Enjoy the village, and then from Murren, visit Allmendhubel . You can easily spend the day here with the whole family. The best way to reach the area is by taking the cable car from Murren, where you will be awed by the views!

Explore the Flower Trail , a nature trail that is both educational and fun for the family. The trail is full of colorful local flowers and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Learn about the flora and fauna of Switzerland by reading the descriptions along the way. The trail cuts through cow pastures, so watch out for cow pies!

Any energy the kids didn’t expend on the hike, they can burn off on the swings, slides, and other play equipment near the trail. Water the cow, and have the kids try to “milk” the cow or stack the cheese rolls on the playground. It’s a great place for outdoor fun or even to enjoy a family picnic Swiss style. Pack some sausages and rolls from the local market while in Murren in your rucksack, and be sure to try a Morenkopf. Your kids will thank you for it. If you would rather, you can also enjoy a Swiss meal at the adjacent mountaintop restaurant.  

Lauterbrunnen

Photo Courtesy: Irina Simon, Laura Snoek

Another great home base to explore the Berner Oberland Region is Lauterbrunnen , a scenic village surrounded by soaring alpine peaks. With easy access to all the region has to offer, it’s a beautiful place to stay.  

Near Lauterbrunnen, you can find another UNESCO world natural heritage site. If you want a grand experience or have older kids, add the Trummelbach Falls to your Switzerland itinerary with kids. These falls could be the best place to visit in Switzerland with kids! The Trummelbach Falls is a series of ten subterranean waterfalls fed by the meltwater of Eiger, Moench, and Jungfrau. They are easily accessible; however, you do have to be in good physical shape to visit them. There is an elevator, but you’ll miss seeing all 10 of the waterfalls. Plan your trip accordingly. Also, the noise and the power are incredible to experience, so any who may be sensitive could plan another outing for the day. The Trümmelbach waterfalls are truly a unique experience to add to your Switzerland itinerary with kids!

Best Hiking in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland for Families

If hiking in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland is on your family bucket list, be sure to check off some of these family-friendly hikes. This list is not exhaustive but is a great starting point for the region. Of course, before you set off, check the weather on the day of your hike and bring various layers, enough food, and water, as temperatures can change quickly in the mountains.

Here Are Our Top Picks for Hiking in Switzerland with Kids:

• The Lauterbrunnen Valley Hike is a perfect hike for families with younger children, as it’s only around 2.5 miles. See the mountains and a waterfall on your hike, a feature that always draws children’s interest. This is a trail that doesn’t require any access with a gondola, so it’s a perfect choice if you need to focus on your budget. Plus, there’s a paved path, so you can easily add a scooter or a bike if your kids’ legs need a break from hiking.
• If you decide to head to Kandersteg , take the gondola up to Lake Oeschinesee . This is a perfect area to picnic in the summer. Bring some sausages and fresh bread from the bakery on your picnic, and pack some Gruyere. Not to mention, a Swiss pocket knife and picnic like the locals! Be sure to try a Landjaeger sausage and Cervela; these are local specialties that you do not want to miss.
• Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg is a beautiful approx. 2-hour hike through alpine meadows with stunning views of the surrounding mountains of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. This is a hike that can be done from either direction. If you choose to end in Mannlichen, your children can play on the playground with amazing cow slides!
• Wengen is another great option for hiking. The North Face Train, the most popular hiking trail in Wengen, offers panoramic views of the valleys and mountains alike. It’s just over a 5-mile hike with a steep start. The views of Eiger, Moench, and Jungfrau are absolutely spectacular, though!

Additional Activity: 1 or 2 Days in Wengen

If you have an extra day to spend in this region of Switzerland, stop by Wengen . This is a quaint area full of adventure and offers lots of fun for families! Paragliding is a popular activity here, with many companies to choose from. It’s also a wonderful way for those adventurous at heart to see the beautiful scenery from a different perspective. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, skydiving is also available in the area. Both of these jaw-dropping adventure thrills would add to your itinerary in Switzerland. 

For those who are looking to stay on the ground, mountain biking or trotti biking are wonderful options. For adventurous families that want to keep their seats closer to the earth, check out the First Mountain Cart . Or, for those who decide to head to Grindlewald, your family may enjoy the First Glider or the First Flyer . 

For a unique adventure, try the Via Ferrata in Wengen. This is not for the faint of heart! Your most experienced thrill seekers can sign up for this activity. Walk across a tightrope above the Lauterbrunnen Valley or a rushing river,  or you can even walk across a wobbly, narrow suspension bridge. If this sounds like fun for one of your family members, be sure to add it to your Switzerland itinerary.

Additional Activity: Thrill-Seeking Adventure for Families in Jungfrau

For a full day of adventuring and hiking, take the cable car up to Jungfraujoch , a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the Aletsch Glacier. This awe-inspiring journey will take you through glistening glaciers, sparkling snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking Alpine landscapes. Snow crunching underfoot and chilly air blowing on your face, you will not be disappointed by the long-range views. Plus, kids will love a tour of the Ice Palace to see the sculptures. What a day to spend at the Top of Europe! 

READ NEXT : 17 Best Mild Weather European Destinations For A Family Summer Vacation

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this guide on how to Plan Your Perfect 7- to 10-day Switzerland Itinerary with Kids! Whether you want to learn more about history or take in epic views via a hike, this European country has many unique experiences to offer a family on their travels. Undoubtedly, this mix-and-match itinerary style will guide you in your planning, giving you the flexibility needed to customize the experience to your family’s preferences. Enjoy your trip to Switzerland with your kids! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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With so many exciting museums, perfectly groomed snow parks and slopes, action-packed rope parks and toboggan runs, pristine lakes and rivers and much more, Switzerland is a place where the whole family can enjoy unforgettable holidays. The 24 certified family destinations are sure to help you get away from everyday cares, leaving you plenty of time to relax and unwind.

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Exploring Switzerland With Kids: Fun Activities And Destinations for Families

Posted on Last updated: July 15, 2023

Switzerland is a dream destination for many travellers, with its stunning natural beauty, charming cities, and rich history. But what about travelling to Switzerland with the kids?

Travelling with children can be a wonderful opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. If you’re considering Switzerland as your next family holiday destination , you’re in for a treat! Switzerland has something for everyone, whether you plan to visit during the summer or winter. It’s a fantastic family destination with plenty of fun activities and attractions for kids of all ages.

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What’s The Best Time To Visit Switzerland With Kids

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Summer in Switzerland is a time of warm weather, greenery, and outdoor adventures. You can hike through the Swiss Alps, swim in the crystal-clear lakes, or explore the quaint small towns and villages.

Winter in Switzerland is just as magical as summer, with snow-capped mountains, cosy chalets, and plenty of winter sports. Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities, with some of the world’s best ski resorts offering slopes for all skill levels. If you’re not into skiing, there are still plenty of winter activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and sledging.

When it comes to the best time to visit Switzerland, it depends on your preferences. Visiting Switzerland in summer and winter is equally enjoyable, offering unique experiences.

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside, while winter offers a chance to hit the slopes and experience the magic of the Swiss Alps covered in snow. Spring and fall can be quieter times to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather, but some attractions and activities may be closed.

Getting Around Switzerland With Kids

There are several ways to get to Switzerland. If you’re travelling from outside Europe, you can fly into one of Switzerland’s major airports, including Zurich Airport, Geneva Airport, and Basel Airport. Once you arrive, you can take a train or rent a car to explore the country.

If you travel from within Europe, you can take a train or drive to Switzerland. Switzerland is well-connected by rail, and the train is often the most convenient and scenic way to travel. There are also several international bus companies that operate services to Switzerland from major European cities.

One of the best ways to get around Switzerland in the summer is by train, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. The Swiss Travel Pass is an excellent option for families, as it provides unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout the country, as well as free admission to many museums and attractions.

Getting around in the winter can be a bit trickier, especially if you plan to visit the higher elevations. A train is still an excellent option, but you need to check for any weather-related disruptions. 

Things To Do In Switzerland With Kids

If you’re travelling with children, check out the various kid-friendly activities available throughout Switzerland.

Outdoor Activities

Switzerland is famous for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities for families to enjoy. If you’re visiting in the summer, you can take the kids on a scenic hike in the Swiss Alps or try water sports on one of Switzerland’s beautiful lakes. You can also ride along one of Switzerland’s many bike paths or try some rock climbing.

No trip to Switzerland would be complete without a visit to the iconic Matterhorn , one of the most famous mountains in the world. Popular activities include taking a boat ride on Lake Geneva , exploring the charming town of Lucerne, or the stunning Rhine Falls .

If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to check out one of Switzerland’s many outdoor festivals, such as the Montreux Jazz Festival or the Geneva Festival.

Switzerland has several parks that are perfect for kids. One of the best is the Swiss Vapeur Parc in Le Bouveret , which is a miniature train park that offers a fun and unique experience for kids.

Another great option is the Zürich Zoo , which is home to a wide variety of animals and offers a fantastic playground for kids. If you’re visiting the Swiss capital of Bern, Gurten Park is a great place for families to relax and enjoy a picnic while taking in the beautiful views of the city.

In the winter, Switzerland transforms into a winter wonderland, with plenty of winter activities for families . Switzerland has some of the best family-friendly ski resorts, such as Flims Laax in Graubünden, Val d’Anniviers in Valais, and Wengen in Bern. You can also enjoy snowshoeing or ice skating.

Don’t forget the luges or toboggans which cascade down the hills – full details of our favourites below!

Indoor Activities

In the event of bad weather, there are plenty of exciting things to do In Switzerland on rainy days, too, that’ll keep the whole family entertained. Switzerland is home to fantastic museums, including the Swiss National Museum in Zurich, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, and the Museum of Transport in Lucerne.

However, your kids may prefer to visit Wow Museum – Room for Illusions in Zurich or Aathal Dinosaur Museum in Seegräben.

If you want something more active, try indoor climbing or trampolining at one of Switzerland’s many indoor sports centres, such as Flip Lab or Minimum Bouldering Hall in Zurich.

With so much to offer, choosing the best experiences for your family can be difficult. For example, suppose you want to craft a 5-day Switzerland itinerary. You may find it daunting, as this beautiful country has so many fascinating sights and activities to explore.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of Switzerland’s top family-friendly destinations and activities to help make your planning a little easier. Let’s dive into some of the best activities and places to visit in Switzerland with kids!

Best Places And Activities When Visiting Switzerland With Kids

Here’s everything you need to know about the best family-friendly experiences in Switzerland, including places to stay, how to get there, restaurants, and things to do with children.

1. Interlaken

Interlaken is a picturesque destination nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Surrounded by towering peaks, pristine lakes, and verdant valleys, this charming town is an ideal spot for families looking for a peaceful yet adventurous vacation. 

How To Get To Interlaken

Interlaken is easily accessible by train or car. The town has two train stations, Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West, both served by regular trains from major cities like Zurich and Geneva. If you’re driving, the town is about two hours from Zurich and three hours from Geneva.

Places To Stay In Interlaken With Kids

Interlaken offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. From luxury hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, you will surely find the perfect place to stay.

The Hotel Victoria Jungfrau is a great option for families looking for luxury accommodation. It offers a range of family rooms and suites that accommodate up to four people. The hotel also has a pool, spa, and kids’ club.

If you prefer camping, Camping Hobby is just a few minutes walk from Interlaken town centre and offers pitches for tents and campervans. The campsite has a playground and a pool.

Family-Friendly Restaurants In Interlaken

Interlaken offers a variety of family-friendly dining options, from traditional Swiss cuisine to international fare. The Grand Café-Restaurant Schuh serves delicious Swiss dishes, such as fondue and raclette, in a charming, rustic atmosphere. Des Alpes offers a mix of Swiss and international cuisine, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients. Its terrace offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

If you fancy something a little more casual, try Hüsi Bierhaus . This lively pub serves a range of local and international beers, hearty pub fares like burgers and fries, and a great kids’ menu.

Things To Do With Kids In Interlaken

Interlaken offers a range of activities that are perfect for families with children. You can take a train to the top of Jungfraujoch Mountain , the highest railway station in Europe, and enjoy stunning mountain views. Another fun idea is to take a cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz and admire the views of the surrounding landscapes.

Interlaken has many beautiful hiking trails, such as the Harder Kulm Panorama Trail. A visit to the St. Beatus Caves is an exciting way to explore the geological wonders of the Swiss Alps. Children can marvel at the underground waterfalls and stalactites while learning about the history and geology of the caves.

Lucerne is another charming city in the heart of the Swiss Alps, known for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and diverse cultural attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Lucerne with kids, there are plenty of things to see and do that will keep everyone entertained.

How To Get To Lucerne

Getting to Lucerne is easy, with regular train connections to major Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. If you’re driving, the town is located about 1.5 hours from Zurich and 3 hours from Geneva.

Places To Stay In Lucerne With Kids

There are many great places to stay in Lucerne. Family-friendly options include Hotel Hofgarten , which offers spacious family rooms, a playground, and a garden with a terrace and Hotel Continental-Park , which is located just a few minutes walk from Lucerne’s train station and offers a variety of room types, including family rooms and suites, as well as a play area for children.

Alternatively, you could stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel Lucerne , located in the heart of the city and offers family rooms, suites, and a playroom for children. It also has a rooftop terrace with panoramic city and lake views.

Family-Friendly Restaurants In Lucerne

When it comes to dining in Lucerne, you won’t be disappointed. The city has many restaurants serving everything from traditional Swiss cuisine to international favourites. If you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurant, the Wirtshaus Taube offers a cosy atmosphere and a menu featuring classic Swiss dishes like rosti and cheese fondue. Another great option is Pfistern , where children can create their own menu from the special menu card and receive a complimentary colouring and puzzle book.

Things To Do With Children In Lucerne

There are plenty of activities in Lucerne perfect for families with children. One of the top attractions in the city is the Swiss Museum of Transport , which features interactive exhibits on everything from aeroplanes and trains to boats and cars.

Another must-see attraction is the Lion Monument , a poignant sculpture commemorating the Swiss soldiers who lost their lives during the French Revolution.

For a fun outdoor adventure, take a boat ride or a stroll along the scenic Lake Lucerne , where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the nearby Mount Pilatus offers stunning views of the region and a range of hiking trails for all skill levels.

Alternatively, you can ride the Pilatus Railway , the world’s steepest cogwheel railway that will take you up to Mount Pilatus.

Zermatt is a picturesque village nestled at the foot of the Matterhorn mountain. Known for its ski slopes and stunning Alpine scenery, Zermatt is a popular destination for tourists all year round. 

How To Get To Zermatt

Zermatt is a car-free village, so the only way to get there is by train. The train ride from Zurich or Geneva takes about 3-4 hours, with one change in Visp.

From Visp, you’ll take a narrow-gauge railway called the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn, which winds up to Zermatt through the mountains. Once you arrive in Zermatt, you can walk or take an electric taxi to your accommodations.

Places To Stay In Zermatt With Kids

Accommodation available in Zermatt ranges from luxury hotels to cosy chalets. Renting a chalet or apartment can be a great option for families with kids, providing more space and privacy than a hotel room.

A popular chalet rental is the Chalet Pollux , which features a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, and stunning mountain views. Another option is the Hotel Mirabeau , which offers family-friendly rooms and suites and an indoor pool, sauna, and kids’ playroom.

Family-Friendly Restaurants In Zermatt

Zermatt has many great family-friendly restaurants serving a variety of different cuisines. Check out Pizzeria Roma, which serves wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes in a cosy atmosphere.

Another popular spot is the Brown Cow Pub , which offers pub-style food and live music. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Restaurant Whymper-Stube, which specializes in regional Swiss cuisine and has a rustic ambience.

Things To Do in Zermatt With Children

Zermatt offers plenty of activities for children, both in summer and winter. In the winter, skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions, with the Matterhorn ski area offering slopes for all skill levels. For younger children or non-skiers, there are snowshoeing tours, ice skating, and tobogganing.

In the summer, families can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding, as well as a visit to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , which features a snow park and ice sculptures.

Another fun activity for families is the Gornergrat railway , which takes you to a viewing platform with stunning views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains. Children will love riding the train and seeing the Alpine scenery up close.

4. Grindelwald

In the heart of the Swiss Alps lies the charming village of Grindelwald. Known for its stunning natural beauty and endless outdoor activities, Grindelwald is a must-visit destination for families looking for an adventure-filled vacation.

How To Get To Grindelwald

Getting to Grindelwald is easy, with several transportation options available. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is in Zurich, which is approximately 2.5 hours away by train or car. You can also take a scenic train ride from Interlaken, which only takes 30 minutes.

Places To Stay In Grindelwald With Kids

When it comes to places to stay, Grindelwald offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. The Hotel Eiger is a popular choice for families with kids, with spacious rooms and suites, a heated indoor pool, a kids’ club, a games room and a cinema.

It also offers a babysitting service for when the grown-ups want some alone time. For a more traditional Swiss experience, the Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof offers cosy chalet-style rooms, an on-site spa, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.

Family-Friendly Restaurants In Grindelwald

If you’re looking for places to eat, Grindelwald has plenty of options to satisfy any appetite. The Alpenblick Restaurant serves traditional Swiss dishes, while Café 3692 is a popular choice serving food all day and has a great kids menu, not to mention the stunning mountain views!

Things To Do With Kids In Grindelwald

When it comes to things to do with children, Grindelwald is a wonderful playground for outdoor adventures. You can take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Mount First, where you’ll find a zip line, rope park, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

The Glacier Canyon Walk is also a must-visit, with a suspension bridge and waterfalls that will impress the little ones.

For a more laid-back experience, take a stroll through the village and check out the local shops and cafes. The Grindelwald Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region, while the Grindelwald Sports Center has a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for all ages.

5. Toboggan Runs And Alpine Coasters

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity to enjoy with your kids in Switzerland, then a toboggan run or alpine coaster is a perfect choice. These attractions are popular in Switzerland and offer a fun and thrilling ride down a winding track, giving you and your family a unique perspective of the stunning alpine scenery.

Here are some of the best toboggan runs and alpine coasters in Switzerland , along with tips for your ride and what to expect. The rides can be quite fast and bumpy, so hold on tight and enjoy the views!

Oeschinensee Toboggan Run, Kandersteg

The Oeschinensee Toboggan Run is 750 metres long and provides a thrilling ride with stunning views of the Doldenhorn mountains.

The ride is suitable for people of all ages and is open from May to October. It’s not too steep or too difficult, which makes it a great activity for families, and it’s easily accessible via cable car from Kandersteg. The cable car journey is about 8 minutes and takes you to Oeschinensee Lake, where you can rent toboggans and start your ride down the mountain.

The Oeschinensee Toboggan Run ticket price varies depending on the number of rides you want to take and starts from CHF 6 (approximately £5). Children aged eight years and over can use the track independently, whereas children aged 3-7 can only use the ride with an accompanying person over eight.

First Flyer, Grindelwald

Nestled in the picturesque town of Grindelwald, Switzerland, First Flyer is a thrilling adventure in breathtaking mountain scenery. It’s easily accessible via a gondola lift from Grindelwald Grund. The ride up to the First Mountain Station is a wonderful experience, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The First Flyer offers spectacular views of the Swiss Alps, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. The ride starts at the First summit station, where you are secured in a harness and seated in a comfortable chair before it takes you on a thrilling 800-meter descent to the Schreckfeld intermediate station.

The ride is an exhilarating experience as you travel at speeds of up to 84 km/h (52 mph) and, in some places, hovering 50 meters above the ground,

The First Flyer is open in the summer and winter. There is a weight restriction of 35 to 125 kg for the First Flyer ride to ensure maximum safety.

The ticket price for First Flyer varies depending on the rider’s age and the time of year. Adults’ prices range from CHF 31 (approximately £28), while children (6-15 years) can enjoy the ride for CHF 24 (approximately £21). Discounts are available for groups, and package deals often include multiple activities.

Frakigaudi Toboggan Run, Mount Pilatus

Fräkigaudi is the longest summer toboggan run in Switzerland. Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, this thrilling ride will have you whooping and hollering down the mountain.

It offers a unique combination of speed, scenery, dragon holes (tunnels), two built-in jumps and pure fun that will delight visitors of all ages.

Frakigaudi Toboggan Run is open from mid-April to late October and is suitable for riders of all ages. However, children under two years are not permitted to ride, and children under eight must ride with an accompanying adult.

It’s easily accessible via cable car from the town of Kriens. The cable car takes you up to the top of Mount Pilatus , where you can rent toboggans and start your ride down the mountain.

The ride begins at the top of the mountain, where riders are fitted with helmets and given a quick safety briefing. From there, it’s a wild ride down the 1350 metres, which winds its way down, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 

Ticket price varies depending on the time of day and the rider’s age. Children under six ride for free, while the prices for children aged 6-16 start at CHF 5 (approximately £4). Adult tickets for a single ride start at CHF 9.00 (approximately £8). Multi-ride tickets are available, which offer discounts for visitors wanting to ride multiple times.

Rodelbahn Alpine Coaster, Glacier 3000

One of the most thrilling attractions at Glacier 3000 is the Rodelbahn Alpine Coaster. This highest-situated toboggan run in the world takes passengers on a fast-paced journey down the mountain.

Rodelbahn Alpine Coaster is open during the summer, generally between mid-May and the end of September, depending on the snow conditions at 3000 metres. The ride is designed for all ages, making it a perfect family activity.

Children aged nine and above can ride alone, providing they are at least 140cm tall, while those aged three and above can enjoy the ride with an older person aged nine or above.

The Rodelbahn Alpine Coaster is easily accessible via cable car from Les Diablerets. The cable car takes you up to the Glacier 3000 summit, where you can start your ride down the mountain.

The Rodelbahn Alpine Coaster offers an exciting ride through 520° circles, ten curves, six waves, and three jumps on a one-kilometre stretch. This thrilling experience promises action-packed speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph) per hour and will get your adrenaline pumping.

The coaster takes you through a beautiful mountain environment, providing an unforgettable adventure. You can control your speed with the brake lever, but you must stay at least 25 metres behind the toboggan in front of you. 

The ticket for the Rodelbahn Alpine Coaster is CHF 9 (approximately £8) per ride/person or CHF 36 (approximately £32) for five rides.

Pradaschier Toboggan, Churwalden

Pradaschier Toboggan , located in Churwalden, within the Arosa-Lenzerheide ski resort, is one of the most exciting toboggan runs in the world. With a length of 3,060 metres, it is the longest toboggan run in Switzerland that promises a thrilling ride and an adrenaline rush that will leave you with unforgettable memories. 

The Pradaschier Toboggan is accessible by cable car from the town of Churwalden. Visitors can take the cable car up to Pradaschier Mountain to begin their toboggan adventure.

The run is suitable for all ages. Children who are eight years or older and measure a minimum of 135 cm can toboggan alone, while an adult must accompany infants from the age of three. If two children occupy the toboggan, the rear-seated child must be 12 years old.

This toboggan run boasts 31 curves and a height difference of 480 metres, twisting and turning down into the valley along the 3,060 metres. You can enjoy this exciting ride throughout the year, as the toboggan run is on rails and can be ridden in summer and winter (weather permitting).

The ride down the mountain lasts from seven to ten minutes, beginning from the starting point at 1,750 metres above sea level and reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph). You can control your speed with the toboggan’s brake lever, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride.

The ride up to the starting position is also a comfortable experience in the four-seater chairlift, adding to the overall enjoyment of your visit.

Ticket prices, including chairlift use, start at CHF 15 (approximately £13) for children between 6-12 years of age and CHF 19 (approximately £17) for children 13-17 years old and students. Adult prices start at CHF 28 (approximately £25). Discounts are available for multiple rides.

For example, buying a 5-ride ticket for a child between 6-12 years costs CHF 37 (approximately £33). An early bird option is also available, allowing you to ride a second time for free before 11 am, and tickets are cheaper if you don’t use the chairlift.

So these are the best things to do in Switzerland with kids!

We hope this post has inspired you to plan your next family holiday to Switzerland. With so many amazing activities and destinations, you and your family will have a memorable time exploring all this stunning country has to offer.

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19 Best Things To Do In Switzerland With Kids

With its towering mountains and challenging hikes, Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the European Alps and a great place for families to vacation.

In this environment, which is so pure and tidy, you may briefly forget all your problems and simply lose yourself in beauty. However, there is always the question of what kid-friendly activities you may engage in when you have children with you. To assist you, we’ve compiled a list of the top 19 places you should visit if you want to give your kids one of the most exciting and enjoyable vacations.

There are many family-friendly activities in Switzerland, so entertaining children’s activities such as going to family-friendly places and indulging in restaurants that welcome little ones will not be a problem. 

The nation is filled with exciting, entertaining, fascinating, and educational events for kids and their families. Children will create lasting memories while learning about and exploring some of the most diverse places. Below are some activities you can do and places to visit with your kids in Switzerland. 

Visit a dinosaur museum

Anyone who loves dinosaurs, particularly kids, will adore this museum. This huge museum is filled with many fossils, dinosaur bones, life-size models, dioramas, and informational exhibits. And while the kids can play in the dino-themed playground outside, the grown-ups can visit the gift shop, which is stocked with dino-related items (books, games, plush toys, accessories, etc.) to buy for dino fans.

Visit the Basel zoo

If your little one is fond of animals, the Basel Zoo is a place you should not miss. The zoo is known as one of the best in the world. You can find over a hundred species of exotic animals and birds from various corners of the globe, including the Amazon tree boa, bar-headed goose, cuckoo catfish, flamingo, four-eyed fish, guinea pig, harvester ant, and many more. 

Besides the animals, the Basel Zoo is known for having one of the perfect botanical gardens inside it. Additionally, the zoo provides a wide range of services for many occasions, including weddings, birthday parties, and business events. 

Have an outdoor adventure in Interlaken

Interlaken is a gem in the center of the Jungfrau region . Here, even the smallest adventurers are not overlooked. The entire family can enjoy the park and the forest floor covered in carved tree trunks. A slackline, picnic tables and benches, and a barbecue are ready to use for the perfect family picnic. 

Moreover, you can visit the Ropes Park in Interlaken, where you can explore various pathways at your own speed. Release tension on different obstacles, swings, and 20-meter-high zip lines. Everyone can have fun at the ropes park because there are activities at varying difficulty levels.

Explore some theme trails

If you are interested in getting your children started on hiking, theme trails are where you should begin. They are very common in Switzerland, so finding one will not be an issue. 

The children are entertained by the enjoyable interactive play stations dotted along the route, which encourages them to keep going even when the hike becomes tough. After experiencing one of our favorite activity theme trails in Switzerland, your kids will fall in love with hiking. Some of these theme trails are:

• Toggenburg Tone Trail, Eastern Switzerland
• Giants Forest at Elm, Eastern Switzerland
• Mooraculum, Central Switzerland
• Swiss National Park Bear Trail, Southeast Switzerland
• Sihlwald Forest Trail, Zürich Region

Go to an alpine playground

Thankfully, family-friendly mountain resorts in Switzerland offer big, elaborate playgrounds near breathtaking views. Many interactive play stations in this playground also teach kids about wildlife. 

Additionally, there are games, obstacle courses, swings, slides, climbing equipment, water slides, and small scavenger hunts. Some of them even have kid-friendly, short theme trails.

Try a mountain scooter ride

Numerous ski resorts in the Swiss Alps provide a “Trottis,” or scooter run, down the mountain. It can be a smart alternative to taking the scooter back after hiking. They come in various sizes and resemble huge children’s scooters with large tires and hand brakes. 

The path for scooters is on a paved or mostly smooth mountain road. Even though there is little to no car traffic on these roads, you still need to be vigilant in case of a tractor or car. Because kids might get carried away and not pay close attention, it is advisable to keep together and teach kids to wait at crossings.

Experience the adrenaline of mountain coasters

A thrilling ride on one of the Swiss mountain coasters is a necessity for every trip to Switzerland . After a challenging hike, it’s a lovely reward for kids (and adults!). 

Unlike a typical roller coaster, you may control your own speed and slide along at your own rate. However, each mountain coaster or slide has minimum height requirements and age restrictions. Children can often ride alone, starting around the age of 8. Some require a minimum height of 120 to 135 cm to operate the hand brakes adequately. Children aged three to seven can typically ride with a teen or an adult, whereas children under three are not permitted to ride, even with an adult.

Ride tiny gondolas and steep funiculars

Create valuable memories with your family by riding with gondolas or funiculars. The 360-degree vistas are breathtaking once you reach the peak. Small trails are accessible for you to walk up and admire other views from different points. 

Children under 12 must ride in chairs or gondolas with at least one adult to ensure their safety. Also, kids must ride in enclosed gondolas and be accompanied by at least one adult if they are under 42″ (106 cm).

Cross some suspension bridges

Since the beginning of time, Switzerland’s mountains and valleys have made it necessary for suspension bridges to link villages for trade and society. Many suspension bridges are now popular tourist and hiking destinations. The majority of these bridges are 100 meters long and provide stunning views. 

And rest assured, all of the bridges and walks have solid wood or metal mesh railings, allowing you to admire the scenery without worrying that your children will stray from the path or bridge.

Try a cliff walk

For the more daring among you, taking the cliff walk, a mesh suspension bridge edging over the cliffside, can be a good place to start. A wide, simple gravel track leads you to the start of the ascent towards Bachalpsee.  

The trail is clearly defined and simple to follow, although it gradually climbs at a high height, so be prepared to go slowly if you’re going out with children. If you need a break, there are many beautiful rest places along the way. 

Try Via Ferrata

Families are using Via Ferratas more frequently to explore the mountains. Today, even children may climb mountains, which would be impossible without using Via Ferrata. 

People tend to downplay Via Ferratas and minimize their difficulty under the pretense of security and ease. However, it is not an easy climb, even less so for children. But, you will be rewarded with an unforgettable mountain experience at a lofty height and the knowledge that you have accomplished something unusual. Your children will be thankful. 

Go skiing/sledding

The word “Switzerland” is nearly synonymous with the swish of skis. While you might want to spend the whole day skiing, paying for a full day pass when skiing with kids is frequently unnecessary. Little ones often cannot ski all day and quickly get bored. 

To change things up, your family can try sledding. At least one toboggan slope may be found in the 345 ski areas. If you sled even once, you’ll do it again. People are fascinated by the fast-paced excitement and the crunch of the runners on freshly fallen snow. If your kids are adventurous, they will love sledding. 

Dive into a water park

Switzerland has several indoor water parks with lazy rivers, wave pools, and action-adventure slides. Some have connections to hot baths and spas. Many of them include lengthy water slides with a lot of water running through them, giving the impression that you are sliding down a river. Some even offer heated outdoor leisure pools with bubble jets, a lazy river, and waterfalls. They also have wave pools, standard water slides for both big and young kids, and other facilities.

Swim in alpine lakes

Numerous stunning lakes and rivers in Switzerland are ideal for summer swimming with a view. But some swimming spots are particularly unique and deserving of a day trip. It’s best to arrive early to ensure parking and a comfortable area to relax by the lake as some of these may get very crowded on hot summer days. 

One lake that stands out is Lauerzersee Lake. It is a charming tiny lake with a view of Mount Rigi that is located beside Lake Zug. The Lauerzersee Lake is frequently warmer than other lakes, making it perfect for young children. There is a large playground, a big grassy space for sports, a shallow sandy area for wading, bouncy floats and diving platforms, boats to rent, and more. Additionally, it is in a beautiful setting with views of Mt. Rigi, lush rolling hills, and high peaks all around. 

Other lakes worth swimming in are:

• Valle Verzasca
• Kayak on Lake Brienz
• Türlersee Paddleboarding
• Rivering floating – Limmat, Reuss, or Aare

Cities all around the nation provide simple access to the valleys and mountainsides, where you may find some of the most breathtaking hiking options in the world. There will be something out there for you, whether you are a beginner or an expert. The SAC difficulty scale used in Switzerland assigns hikes a technical score, so make sure to check that before going for the hike. 

It might be challenging to decide which treks are best for families when you first start hiking with your children. Fortunately, Switzerland boasts a ton of fantastic family-friendly paths, many of which have entertaining amenities like playgrounds along the way to keep young walkers interested.

Go river rafting

A kid-friendly, low-stress white water leads to the stunning, turquoise-blue Lake Brienz in Interlaken . The river contains gentle rapids in the lower half making it perfect for family rafting. 

This quick, straightforward rafting experience was created for kids and families, emphasizing having fun and staying safe on the water. The rapids are an excellent way to introduce the kids to the world of outdoor adventure. At the end of the tour, everyone is rewarded with a swim.

Explore the local culture

Switzerland is a nation full of cultural treasures . Many churches, landmarks, and rituals among these cultural resources date back hundreds of years. Others—such as examples of contemporary architecture and urban planning—represent the evolving essence of the nation. 

The Swiss are also renowned for their tight adherence to a system of unwritten social conventions governing daily living and their quiet, extremely organized temperament, which to extroverted foreigners appears cold and unwelcoming. Some must-visit cultural destinations in Switzerland are: 

• The Old Town, Bern
• Fondation Beyeler, Basel
• Le Corbusier, Zurich
• Swiss National Museum, Zurich
• Plateforme 10, Lausanne
• Castle Chillon , Lake Geneva Region
• Abbey Library of St. Gall, St. Gallen

Visit a chocolate factory

If you choose to visit the Lausanne chocolatier’s workshop, save visiting the all-you-can-eat tasting room for last for a thrilling experience for your kids. There is also a tiny playground for youngsters to burn off the sugar excess.

Go paragliding

Switzerland is frequently called a “paradise on earth” because of its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Now picture yourself flying like a bird and witnessing this paradise from above. What a mind-blowing sensation, don’t you think? 

However, there is always a concern about safety while traveling with children. So, if youngsters are allowed to paraglide, is it safe? To answer briefly, yes. However, a guardian’s signed permission is required. Also, the age requirement is six years old. They may fly with an adult who could be their parent or the monitor. Click here to learn more about paragliding in Switzerland.

The Bottom Line

Being one of the countries with the most famous mountains and breathtaking views, Switzerland, without a doubt, has a lot to offer. From cultural places to adventurous activities, you are guaranteed a good time if you decide to visit Switzerland with your family. Hopefully, the list of 19 kid-friendly activities we have compiled will make planning your trip to Switzerland easier and your time there more enjoyable.

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The 11 most incredible places to visit in Switzerland: be inspired

Nov 24, 2023 • 8 min read

Switzerland, it really is this stunningly beautiful © scaliger / Getty Images

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it,  Switzerland gets pretty darned close. 

The Alps ripple across 60% of the country, and the landscapes and towns look like they have been dreamed up by a particularly imaginative child. We’re talking glacier-capped peaks, crash-bang waterfalls, turreted castles of the fairy-tale kind and lakes in the most surreal shade of turquoise blue. Red trains curl up mountains to improbable heights and clanging cowbells ring out across hilly meadows that you can skip down with Heidi-like glee.

Even the culture-filled cities have magnificent backdrops of vineyards, lakes or rivers, and the mountains are never more than a whisper away. As natural beauty goes, Switzerland is off the charts. That makes it a joy to travel around , whether by train, bus or car. Here are the 11 best places to visit in Switzerland.

1. Jungfrau

Best for outdoor activities

The idyllic Jungfrau region is the icing on the Alpine cake of Switzerland’s  Bernese Oberland . Sky-high peaks, glaciers and thundering falls elicit gasps of wonder wherever you go. Grazing the 4,000m (13,123ft) mark are Switzerland’s "big three:" Eiger (Ogre), Mönch (Monk) and Jungfrau (Virgin), enshrined in mountaineering legend.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime ride up to the everlasting snow at Europe’s highest train station, 3,454m (11,332ft)  Jungfraujoch . Hike, ski, sled and zip-line among mountains of myth in  Grindelwald , enjoy waterfalls galore in  Lauterbrunnen  and tackle every kind of extreme sport imaginable in  Interlaken (skydiving, ice climbing, glacial bungee jumping – you name it). The Jungfrau region is the great outdoors on a blockbuster scale.

Planning tip:  Rush this region and you’ll regret it. Allow a week or more to dive in deep if you have the time. It's worth it. 

Best for stepping back in time

Bern often pops up in those I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital trivia questions, but frankly, Switzerland’s first city deserves more love. The cobbled, flag-bedecked medieval  Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage treat, with 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars, fantastical folk figures topping 16th-century fountains and the eye-grabbing  Zytglogge . Framed by wooded hills and split in two by the turquoise Aare River, this red-roofed city looks good from pretty much every angle. It’s pure storybook stuff for kids, too, with its giant who snacks on children (the  Kindlifresserbrunnen ) and  resident bears .

Sights-wise, you’ll be drawn to big-hitters like the  Einstein-Haus  (where the genius and Nobel laureate developed his theory of relativity), the  Kunsthaus  (with its outstanding fine arts collection) and Renzo Piano’s wavy Zentrum Paul Klee (Bern’s answer to the Guggenheim).

In summer, the action’s on the water with swimming, tubing, rafting and paddleboarding along the Aare River.

3. Geneva and Lake Geneva

Best for a cosmopolitan city experience

In Switzerland’s western crook, crescent-shaped Lake Geneva  (Lac Léman to Francophones) is a joy to behold with its mountain backdrop, spirit-lifting views, vineyards and shoreline necklaced with handsome cities and castle-crowned towns.

Marked by its rainbow-kissed  Jet d’Eau fountain and Mont Blanc peeping up on the horizon, Geneva wraps around the lake’s southern shore. The worldly city makes an excellent launchpad for exploring with big-hitting museums and galleries to absorb, botanical gardens to stroll, lidos to swim at, Old Town cafes to hang out in and bright-yellow mouettes  ferrying locals across the water – surely one of the world’s most scenic commutes.

Planning tip: It’s a quick boat or train hop to  Lausanne , which can culturally give Geneva a run for its money, especially with its  Plateforme 10 arts district , the lovely terraced vineyards of the  Lavaux  wine region (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and flower-draped  Montreux , host to one of the world’s most famous jazz festivals, with the picture-perfect  Château de Chillon right on its doorstep.

Best for hiking, skiing and rock-climbing

No peak has more pulling power than the 4,478m (14,692ft) Matterhorn, a terrific, gnarled fang of rock that flings up above the seductive, timber chalet-filled Alpine resort of Zermatt . It's Switzerland’s mountain icon, so beloved by the nation that it inspired the pyramid shape of Toblerone chocolate.

Zermatt is more than a one-mountain wonder. Climbers have been rocking up here since the mid-19th-century, and it’s still a magnet for challenging summit ascents today. Otherwise, come to hike, ski and gaze over a sea of glaciers and 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . 

5. Swiss National Park 

Best for wildlife (and wildflowers) spotting

Switzerland has just one national park? Yes, we know it’s a shock, but trust us it’s a good one. Snuggled away in a remote corner of the country’s southeast on the border with Italy, the 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile)  Swiss National Park is the Alps in overdrive: a nature-gone-wild spectacle of high moors, forests, wildflower-freckled pastures, waterfalls, jewel-colored lakes and mountains as high as the sky, where ibex, chamois, marmots, deer and golden eagles roam and fly free.

Planning tip: Start off on the right foot with the inside scoop on walking trails and ranger-led guided hikes at the visitor center in Zernez.

6. Bellinzona

Best for piazza dining

With medieval castles rising high and the Alps rearing beyond, good-looking Bellinzona in Ticino is a taste of the best of Italy's best food and culture in Switzerland. You’ll find a generous splash of Italian flair in its historic center, woven with flower-draped alleys, Renaissance churches and cafe-rimmed piazzas that brim with life, laughter, clinking glasses and the out-of-tune toll of countless campaniles. 

Planning tip:  Top of any wish list is seeing the castles, among them hilltop Castelgrande , which can be drawn out into a full day’s activity (bring water and comfortable shoes). 

7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel 

Best for road tripping

In the dark forested hills along the French-Swiss border, the Jura Mountains are a natural wonder. This peaceful region has a beauty all its own: meadows of green, ancient forests, rocky outcrops overlooking a trio of lakes against an Alpine backdrop and slow-paced villages and valleys little changed in centuries. 

Begin with a road trip . Kick off at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with dress-circle views of Lake Geneva and Gruyère cheese tastings at rustic Alpine huts. Swing north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, honeycombed with Switzerland’s biggest (and most impressive) limestone caves.

Tag on a trip to Lac de Neuchâtel and you can bathe in the thermal waters of Yverdon-les-Bains, tiptoe off the map in the lushly rolling Val-de-Travers (birthplace of absinthe) and the crescent-moon canyon of Creux du Van . Cultured Neuchâtel is a fitting climax with its fantasy of a lavishly turreted château.

8. Lake Lucerne

Best for sunset promenades

Reclining on the shores of its glittering namesake  lake ,  Lucerne  is a walkable, medieval dream of a city that has a magic you can’t quite put your finger on. It will grab you when you are strolling along the promenade as the sun sets in a blaze of gold and pinks or as you cruise across its waters to mountains of myth: 2,132m (6,995ft) Mt Pilatus, where Wagner raved about the Alpine panorama and Queen Victoria trotted on horseback, and 1,797m (5,896ft) Rigi, with a light so sublime Turner painted it in three different moods.

The little city punches far above its weight culturally with its iconic medieval Kapellbrücke  bridge leaping across the Reuss River and the Jean Nouvel–designed  KKL arts center and  Sammlung Rosengart  harboring a prized private collection of Picassos. Ambling past the belle époque hotels lining its shores, the same views that captivated Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner in the 19th century will hold you in their thrall.

Planning tip: With more time on your hands, you can really get out on the lake. Cruise across fjord-like, mountain-rimmed Lake Uri for a taste of Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heartland. Boats ply the glassy turquoise waters to  Rütli , birthplace of the Swiss nation.

9. Appenzell and northeastern Switzerland

Best for a bucolic Swiss experience

Northeastern Switzerland might not have the in-your-face drama of higher realms of the Alps, but it nevertheless delights in its own serene, deeply rural way with dairy country unraveling to meet the mountains and half-timbered, gaily muralled towns all fit for a postcard. This pocket-sized region is perfect for a family vacation with a hit of culture and gentle adventure.

Begin in St Gallen, with a spin round its World Heritage  Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), a literary marvel and a feast of rococo art and architecture. Move on to folksy, ridiculously pretty Appenzell, popping into the  Schaukäserei to sample regional cheeses.

Muscling further south into the Alps, head on up to Säntis at 2,501m (8,205ft) for views embracing six countries and then go to  Werdenberg , a tiny speck of a medieval hamlet home to Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.

Planning Tip: Close by is  Vaduz ,  Liechtenstein ’s princely, castle-topped capital on the banks of the Rhine.

Best under-the-radar city experience

Popularity-wise, poor old  Basel barely gets a look. But that’s a mistake. Straddling the Rhine, this city has everything going for it: world-class art in some of the country’s best galleries, a hot food scene, avant-garde buildings bearing the hallmark of Pritzker Prize–winning architects and an upbeat cafe culture.

Allow several days for a satisfying romp of the center, where must-sees include the  Kunstmuseum and its fine arts collection, the Renzo Piano-designed  Fondation Beyeler and the Frank Gehry-designed  Vitra Design Museum .

Planning tip: Basel endears itself most to those who look beyond the trophy sights, with sundown drinks by the river or a wild swim in the Rhine. Rent a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag) at the tourist office, strip to your swimming suit and go with the flow, floating downstream past the city’s landmarks.

Best place to live

Regularly landing at the top in quality-of-living surveys, urban dynamo Zürich never seems to miss a beat: from cool waterside bars on the banks of the Limmat River to its alley-woven Old Town, where the twin-spired Romanesque Grossmünster shines with Augusto Giacometti’s rainbow of stained glass. Le Corbusier’s boldly colored architectural creations and the edgily post-industrial Züri-West neighborhood notch Zürich's culture cred up even further.

Planning tip: In mid-August, Zürich throws one of Switzerland’s wildest parties: the techno-pumping Street Parade. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated November 2023

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Switzerland Family Vacation: Our Experience

What’s In This Article

Most of our family vacations are to a new place every trip. Not Switzerland; the fantastic scenery makes it a place we keep returning to.

This guide reviewsf the top places to see and stay in Switzerland, from the snowy Alps to the charming towns and lakes. We’ll show you what we loved and what we’d skip next time.

NOTE: Our guides focus on unique local attractions. We want to explore things that can’t be found at home, and we only include places that we’ve been to. If you search for “best things to do in (random city),” you’ll find many of the same things: wax statue museums and believe-it-or-not attractions. But if we’re flying around the world to visit somewhere, we want to see something new first.

Switzerland overview

Top Thing To Do : Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe .

Where To Stay : Swiss Holiday Park . Our kids love this resort because of the water park and other fun activities (complete review here ).

This resort is several hours from our other favorite, the Oberland area. Spend a couple of days at Swiss Holiday Park and some more in the towns of Wengen or Lauterbrunnen in Oberland.

The best time to visit is in the summer. The ski resorts are quiet, and the mountain temperatures are cooler. Plus, snow is still available to see year-round at places like Jungfraujoch .

How To Get There: Zurich (ZRH) is the closest airport, followed by Geneva (GVA). Check flight prices on Google Flights to find the best deals.

The Swiss rail system makes getting around the country easy, with no rental car needed. See more on the rail system below.

Getting to Switzerland

Switzerland is pretty easy to reach from the United States, with flights from many U.S. airline hubs to the main airport in Zurich. Swiss Air also serves the U.S. with flights to Zurich and Geneva.

Most of our trips have been through London (LHR) on British Airways, arriving in Zurich (ZRH). From here most of the country is accessable by train within a couple hours.

Our this trip we arrived in Zurich late in the evening, so we stayed overnight at the Hyatt Place Zurich airport. The stay wasn’t long enough to write a review on, but it’s a great place for an overnight stay at Zurich airport. You can walk to it, then walk to the train station right in the airport the next day.

Getting Around Switzerland

Dont bother looking at rental cars: the train is the only way you need to get around Switzerland. It’s easy, reliable, clean, and there’s amazing views along the way. We’ve taken “scenic train rides” in other countries before that are nowhere near as good as the scenery you’ll see on the Swiss public transportaion system.

Even small towns, like the ones we visited, are served by trains in Switzerland. Though you’ll often have to transfer once or twice to get where youre going. This is another reason our luggage has gotten lighter each trip.

The family cars on many Swiss trains even have small playgrounds on the upper levels! On one of our trips, our kids spent most of a 2-hour train journey playing with other kids in a small play area with a slide (picture in the galley below). The family cars are marked on the side of the train and on station signs when the train approaches.

We’ve typically purchased first-class train tickets for no more money, but the family train cars with playgrounds are usually second-class tickets.

Where To Go in Switzerland

After a lot of research on where to do, here are the top things we saw in Switzerland. Along with what we thought, we’ll tell you if we’d recommend each place or visit there again.

Swiss holiday Park in Morschach

Our first stop on our vacation was several hours by train, followed by a bus ride for the last 10-minute journey up the mountain to the town of Morschach.

Morschach was a great first place to see in Switzerland. The small town is tiny, with only a couple restaurants, and a tiny small grocery store. Usually when we travel, we run into other Americans, but not here.

Swiss Holiday Park is the only resort in town, attracting most visitors to this village.

The resort is similar to a water park resort in the United States, with a few excellent additions. Along with the indoor/outdoor water park, there are other activities like go-karts, horseback riding, a sauna, a steam room, and an ice bath.

Our kids loved the horseback riding, which takes you around the resort and ends up back on the town’s main street.

Read more about our stay at Swiss Holiday Park . This resort overall is a great place to visit, but keep in mind some parts of the hotel and apartments are older and about due for refurbishment. There’s also no air conditioning (common for European hotels), but that’s usually no issue with the cool temperatures in the area.

Oberland Area

This area is a must visit! If you don’t go anywhere else in Switzerland, GO HERE!

After leaving Swiss Holiday Park , our next Swiss vacation took us to Oberland. Our following few excursions are all from the Oberland area.

The Oberland area in the Bernese Alps is (in our opinion) the most scenic area in Switzerland. Known for it’s amazing mountains, serene lakes, and charming villages.

It’s instantly recognizable from the Lauterbrunnen waterfalls, made famous by Instagram. There’s plenty to do in this area.

If you’re visiting in the summer, temperatures are usually nice and cool, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities. You could spend a week here if you enjoy activities like hiking and spending time outdoors.

There are several towns to stay in with great mountain views. Click on the city to learn more:

• Wengen : A small car free village, that’s very quiet. Overlooks Lauterbrunnen in the valley below.
• Lauterbrunnen : A slightly larger town than Wengen , Lauterbrunnen is right under Wengen.
• Grindelwald: One of the most famous Oberland towns outside the valley, a short distance from the other two towns.

We stayed in Wengen on our most recent Switzerland family vacation.

There’s amazing views from Wengen, because it sits above the Lauterbrunnen valley. and offers great views of its waterfalls.

Wengen is a car-free and quiet village, so it may not be the best choice if you have lots to do. It you prefer a bit busier down, Lauterbrunnen is a good option. It’s just a short train ride via cog train down to the valley.

Here’s a short video clip of the amazing views from our Wengen VRBO , which was located on the top floor of the building with a rooftop window. You can even see the famous Instagram waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen.

Cable Car up to Mannlichen

Wengen is a great base camp to start one of our favorite things to do, the cable car ride up to Mannlichen.

Mannlichen isn’t one of the most well known tourist attractions, but rather a scenic mountain that is a popular starting point for hikes, and a skiing area in the winter.

But we found it to be an amazing partial day trip, that we did several times. Part of the fun is the ride up the mountain in the roof-top cable car. Check out the amazing video on the ride up from this video we took:

Once you arrive at the top, you’ll find a ski area with a great playground (or Splietsplatz) that we spent several hours on throughout our stay.

A restaurant is also located at the top, near the cable car station. We got lunch or drinks there both times while we watched the kids on the playground.

There’s even some unique Swiss playground equipment, modeled after the local cows you may find grazing the mountains nearby.

You can also enjoy some high-altitude hiking and cool weather.

There’s a short hike up to the viewing point where we took the picture above. It’s a bit steep at the end on a gravel path, so strollers don’t work on the latter part of the path.

Schlithorn Mountain

Another Oberland excursion, this is a must-do if you’re staying in near Wengen or Lauterbrunnen.

Riding the cable car is an amazing experience. You have to transfer between several cable cars to reach the top. The views of the Swiss Alps and the countryside are breathtaking.

At the top, we visited the revolving restaurant, though clouds limited views. Get reservations if you’re interested in this; it was packed.

Fun facts: A James Bond movie was filmed here at the revolving restaurant at the top. (On Her Majesty’s Secret Service). You’ll be reminded of this throughout the attraction, from James Bond mannequins to 007 branded hamburgers.

On the way up or down the cable cars, don’t miss a stop at the midpoint station. You’ll have to change cable cars here anyway, so take a look outside. It was one of the best parts of Schlithorn but it wasn’t well known about when we went. There was almost no one out there when we were there.

Brave kids can walk across a glass bridge, net bridge, or rope tunnel, all suspended thousands of feet above the valley! Both our kids loved this!

In this picture, it’s hard to tell how high it is because we’re in the clouds!

Cable car tickets for Schlithorn are included if you purchase the Oberland Pass from Swiss Travel Pass .

Ti[p: If you don’t have enough time to do both Schlithorn and Jungfraujoch while you’re staying in the Oberland area, visit Jungfraujoch. Jungfraujoch and Mannlichen are both amazing, but Jungfraujoch is even better.

Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe)

The highlight of our stay in the Oberland area was a trip to Jungfraujoch, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read our complete review of Jungfraujoch .

We reached Jungfraujoch by cog train, arriving at the highest train station in Europe at 11,333 ft above sea level. The train leaves from Lauterbrunnen with a stop in Wengen , then a transfer higher up on the mountain.

Since we were staying in Wengen, it was very convenient. But you do need train reservations for this trip.

The whole ride until you get to the tunnel has amazing views. From the training leaving Lauterbrunnen (sit on the right side):

After passing through Wengen you continue up the mountain to the small village of Kleine Scheidegg, changing trains there.

On the return trip there was heavy snow coming down in Kleine Scheidegg. Not something we were expecting in June! This is a good stop for lunch before continuing the train journey.

The last part of the train journey is in a tunnel through the mountains.

The train station at the top is even inside a mountain

The views at the top of the snow-capped alpine peaks and glaciers are breathtaking. Our kids loved the year-round snow tubing .

We also visited the amazing ice palace and the Lindt chocolate store.

It was an amazing experience and the best part of our trip. We highly recommend taking the day to make a trip to Jungfraujoch. Read our whole trip report here .

Interlaken is a slightly larger town located between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It is a popular destination and transportation hub with plenty of activities nearby.

While we spend much of our time in Switzerland in Interlaken , you have to connect on a train in Interlaken when traveling to the Oberland area from any large city.

Although it’s a great central location, it doesn’t give you the full mountain experience. It feels more industrialized and a transportation hub. We recommend staying in Wengen , Lauterbrunnen , or Grindewald .

That said, there are a few unique things to do in Interlaken.

Harder Kulm Funicular

From Harder Kulm (Top of Interlaken), take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain peaks and lakes.

A funicular will take you up the mountain, and once at the top, you can explore the terrace, restaurant, and observatory. We’d recommend Schlithorn and Jungfraujoch , instead of Harder Kulm if you have to choose.

The Oberland pass from Swiss Travel Passes also includes the Harder Kulm Funicular.

Interlaken Boat Cruise

An Interlaken boat ride is a great way to explore the beautiful Lake Thun.

The boat also passes Swiss landmarks like Jungfrau Mountain, the Eiger, and the Mönch. You can also spot the beautiful Thunersee and Brienzersee lakes. The cruise also stops at several ch arming towns, including Interlaken, Thun, and Spiez.

The Oberland Pass from Swiss Travel Passes includes some of the lake cruises.

Interlaken Jet Boat Ride

Jetboat Interlaken is also in Interlaken. Take a thrilling ride with fast turns on the waters of Lake Brienz.

This excursion is similar to the Shotover Jet Boat in Queenstown . But we think the one in Queenstown is much better. The boat is similar, but the canyon ride in Queenstown, New Zealand makes it even better.

Our next and finally stop in Switzerland is Lucerne. Lucerne is a beautiful city full of history and wonderful sights. Click here to read our full guide on Lucerne .

This old town has cobblestone streets, and a famous monument called the Lions of Lucerne.

When you visit the city, see the iconic Lucerne Bridge, which spans the Reuss River.

The paintings and sculptures of the bridge make it a unique and picturesque sight. View the lake, the mountains, and the quaint old town from the chapel bridge.

Lucerne is a great destination for a weekend getaway. But, if your time is limited, we would skip Lucerne in favor of the Oberland area.

Where to Stay in Switzerland

We focused on the most beautiful parts of Switzerland for our trips.

The Oberland area makes a perfect spot for a home base to explore the most scenic area of Switzerland. It’s close to attractions such as Schlithorn and Jungfraujoch .

The scenery here is incredible, making it a must-visit spot on any Switzerland trip.

The Swiss Holiday Park , a few hours east of Oberland, is a great place for a relaxing vacation. It offers many activities for kids and is one of our favorite resorts!

Interlaken is one of the largest cities in the area. But it is more of a commercial &transportation hub than a mountain village.

We’d recommend staying in one of the following towns that will give you more of an authentic Swiss vacation.

We stayed in Wengen on our most recent Switzerland family vacation. Click here to read more .

Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen , located in the valley below Wengen , is another great option.

Here you’ll find a larger town than Wengen, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. Lauterbrunnen will also give you some great views of the huge Lauterbrunnen waterfalls.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is another good choice in the Oberland area, connected to Jungfraujoch by the Eiger Express cable car.

These towns all have stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making them ideal bases for exploring the region.

We have visited Switzerland twice recently and would love to go back again. Our most recent summer vacation included Switzerland, Italy, Greece, and Turkey. The whole family voted Switzerland as their favorite

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We are a family of four ( kids aged 3 and 7) We are on a first time tour to Switzerland in June this year. The whole trip is for about 2 weeks , spread between UK,France and Switzerland, with SW being the first point in this travel. Can you recommend how long do we plan for in SW? and which cities would you recommend traveling? I have shorlisted Zurich,Interlaken with day trip to Jungfrau.

Thank you for your help 🙂

Hi Ankur, Sounds like a great trip! We’d recommend 4-5 days, with most of it in the Interlaken area. We’ve been through Zurich a few times but it’s usually just for a day on the way to or from somewhere in the Alps. Instead of Interlaken, we’d take 1 more train transfer to goto Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, or Grindelwald. Those towns put you right in the mountains, vs a more industrial area in Interlaken, and the train to Jungfrau leaves from Lauterbrunnen and goes through Wengen on the way up. For the other days in the area, a cable car up to the Mannlichen hiking area playground was a hit with our kids (we diid that twice), and the waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen, but they may be loud for the 3 yr old. We also stopped in several other cities like Lucerne, but none of them compared to the Lauterbrunnen area. If you ask our kids, their favorite place has been the Swiss Holiday Park, which has good kids activities, but doesn’t have the scenery of Lauterbrunnen/Wengen, which has been our favorite.

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The Best Destinations to Explore in Switzerland With the Family

Switzerland has a reputation for being sophisticated and expensive, but it’s also the perfect place for a family getaway. This small country is brimming with exciting experiences and family-friendly activities that promise to leave you with fond memories of the snowcapped Alps. 

This article will highlight some of the best destinations to explore in Switzerland with family, helping you plan your next sensational family adventure. 

Is Switzerland Good for Families?

There are a variety of cities and attractions in Switzerland that make for an excellent family getaway. With dazzling landscapes to explore, charming villages to discover, and enriching activities around every corner, there is something for every interest. You and your family can enjoy all kinds of adventures like skiing and hiking, as well as more unique experiences like riding the chocolate train to the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory in Broc. 

You will find that Switzerland is incredibly family-friendly, making it a great place to take the kids. Public transport is efficient and easy to understand, which allows you to flit between attractions and activities as much as you’d like. Plus, facilities like baby changing rooms, playgrounds and family accommodation are widely available in Switzerland, meaning you can have a stress-free family trip . 

If you plan to stay in Switzerland for a while, you could consider enrolling your kids in a summer camp. There are a variety of Switzerland-based international summer camps , offering outdoor activities like mountain biking and watersports. This is a great way to entertain the kids and gives you some alone time to explore other parts of the country.  

The 5 Best Family Destinations in Switzerland

Now that you have an idea of why Switzerland should be your next family holiday, let’s dive into the details. Below you will find suggestions for the best destinations in Switzerland that are ideal for families. From skiing the alpine slopes to exploring verdant national parks, there are so many things to do on a family trip to Switzerland . 

Skiing in Zermatt

Nestled in the pristine Swiss Alps, Zermatt offers the ideal environment for a fun-filled family ski trip . Alongside picturesque views of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is part of the 4 Vallees ski region which offers a range of runs suitable for all skill levels. There are also ski schools in Zermatt that specialize in teaching younger skiers with dedicated beginner slopes, making it a great choice for your first family ski trip. 

Even if your children are too young to ski or feel scared, there are so many other activities in Zermatt to keep them occupied. The alpine village is a bonafide winter wonderland, so your children can try out snowshoeing, tobogganing, and even ice skating to round out their winter holiday. 

The charming village is completely car-free, providing a safe and relaxing space to enjoy time with your family. The best way to enjoy an alpine adventure is by renting ski chalets in Switzerland . Your family can gather around a warm fire after a day on the slopes, drinking hot chocolate and soaking up the cozy ambiance. 

Explore Attractions in Zurich

With well-maintained public spaces, a safe and welcoming atmosphere, and a gorgeous lake backdrop, Zurich is one of the best cities in Switzerland for families. There is a unique blend of cultural experiences that make Zurich suitable for older children, but even younger travelers are catered for. 

Attractions in Zurich are extremely diverse, with experiences suitable for a range of ages and interests. Some of the best things to do in Zurich include exploring the Old Town, visiting the Botanical Garden, and the FIFA World Football Museum, which is bound to be a hit with any sporty kids. Just outside the city, Technorama offers a hands-on learning experience with engaging experiments and exhibits that will teach the whole family about the wonders of science. 

Get on the Water at Interlaken 

As its name suggests, Interlaken is situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This charming town boasts immaculate views of the Swiss Alps and is a hub for outdoor activities, so it should be top of the list for active families visiting Switzerland.

One of the best things for families in Interlaken is Jungfraujoch, the highest point in Europe. Families can jump on a train to reach the ‘top of Europe’, which will take around 90 minutes. Once there you can take part in tubing, snowboarding, and sledding or simply enjoy the panoramic views. 

Geneva: A Treasure Trove for Family Fun

While often hailed for its international flair, Geneva is a hidden gem when it comes to family-friendly attractions.

Start your adventure at the Geneva Natural History Museum, where kids can marvel at life-sized animal dioramas and engage with interactive displays. With exhibits spanning from prehistoric fossils to a live animal section, the museum sparks curiosity in the young and old, making it a fantastic educational stop.

After indulging in some natural history, head over to Parc de la Grange, the city’s green heart and its largest park. Children can expend their energy on the playgrounds or join you for a stroll through the lush rose gardens. The park also offers a cultural twist with its open-air theatre, where families can catch performances during the summer months.

No visit to Geneva would be complete without climbing the towers of St. Pierre Cathedral. The effort to reach the top is well worth it, as the panoramic views over the city’s rooftops and the sparkling lake are breathtaking. Spotting the towering Jet d’Eau fountain from above offers a unique vantage point before seeing it up close.

Finally, make your way to the shores of Lac Léman to witness the sheer power and beauty of the Jet d’Eau. This fountain is not only a symbol of Geneva but an enchanting experience for children, with water jetting skyward and often casting rainbows in the sunlight. It’s the perfect backdrop for a memorable family photo and a moment to appreciate the blend of nature and innovation that Geneva represents so well.

Outdoor Adventures in the Swiss National Park

Located in the Engadine Valley in eastern Switzerland, this is the only national park in the country and offers endless entertainment for families. The breathtaking scenery provides a unique chance to connect with nature and guided tours of the park are a great way to get the kids engaged with the local flora and fauna. 

There are numerous well-marked hiking trails in the park which is great for families who enjoy the outdoors. While some of the hikes will be too challenging for younger children, some easy walks will be more suitable. Be sure to bring a picnic with you and enjoy lunch in the pristine beauty of the Swiss Alps . 

Summary 

Overall, there are a bunch of amazing destinations in Switzerland that are perfect for families looking to try something different. 

Active families will enjoy places like Zermatt, Interlaken, and the Swiss National Park, where outdoor adventures and exciting excursions are in abundance. However, more laid-back families seeking a relaxing escape will find Bern and Zurich to be just what they are looking for. 

No matter how you choose to spend your time in Switzerland, one thing is for sure: it will be a great family holiday that you won’t soon forget.

Home » Activities

20 Best activities for kids in Switzerland

• Switzerland

• Last Updated: 5 Feb 2022
• By Tanya, Founder of Swiss Family Fun

If you buy something through a link here, we may earn a commission. See our disclosure policy . Note that p rices and opening times may change without notice.

Switzerland is an ideal place for a family vacation, with a wide variety of fun and exciting activities for all ages. From theme trails to alpine playgrounds to mountain scooters, there is really something for everyone.

Here are the best activities for kids and teens in Switzerland, with links to detailed lists for each category.

1. Fun activity trails

2. alpine playgrounds, 3. mountain coasters, 4. summer toboggans, 5. mountain kick scooters, 6. swimming in alpine lakes, 7. river rafting, 8. rope climbing parks, 9. via ferrata – cabled climbing routes, 10. glacier trek, 11. cliff walks, 12. ride tiny gondolas & steep funiculars, 13. suspension bridges, 14. chocolate factories, 15. kid-friendly museums, 16. indoor water parks, 17. indoor playgrounds, 18. long sled runs, 19. ice skating on frozen lakes, 20. skiing in fun parks, summer activities for kids.

Children will love hiking after trying a theme trail in Switzerland. These trails have fun interactive play stations scattered along the trail, entertaining and motivating kids to keep walking even when the going gets tough. 

The gold standard is the Toggenburg Tone Trail with 20+ musical installations along the trail.

See the best theme trails in Switzerland .

Many mountains resorts have elaborate playgrounds with a view and adjacent restaurant so parents can relax while children play. These are a great way to enjoy the alps if you don’t want to hike. Or the playground can be a reward for good little hikers at the end of the trail. 

See Best Alpine Playgrounds with Epic Views in Switzerland

Many mountains in Switzerland have alpine coasters, where you ride down a track on individual cars, controlling your speed with hand brakes.

The longest in Switzerland is at Prädischer, with a 3 km track, reaching speeds up to 40km/hr. Usually children as young as 4 years old can ride double with an adult.  

See  Best Mountain Coasters in Switzerland

With summer toboggan rides, you ride on a sled that moves freely on metal half-pipe slide, not attached to a track. You control your speed with a handbrake.

It might seem a little unsafe with no helmet or seatbelt, but in general, they are quite safe if you properly control your speed. Children above 3 years old are usually allowed to ride with an adult. Toboggan tracks range in length from 600 to 1350 meters. 

See the best summer toboggans in Switzerland

After a hike, we love rewarding the kids with a mountain scooter ride, speeding down the mountain The scooters come in different styles from thin to fat tires to three-wheel go-karts, aka monster carts, all with hand brakes.

The routes are usually a mix of dirt, gravel and paved, with distances from 3 to 11 km. Kids around 8 years old can ride them alone, while younger children can usually ride double with an adult.

See  12 Best Mountain Scooter Rides in Switzerland

Sporty activities

One of the nicest summer treats in Switzerland is cooling off in a gorgeous mountain lake, especially after a hike. Pick a hot day since the water is cold, so pick a hot day for this activity.

A popular destination is the beautiful Caumasee in southeast Switzerland, but it’s become a rather expensive for non-locals. But don’t worry, there are lots of free alpine lakes to visit. 

See the best alpine lakes for swimming in Switzerland

Switzerland has a few gorgeous rivers with rapids, where rafting companies offer tours for families. We enjoyed a 2 tour along the Vorderrhein river in southeast Switzerland, through the Swiss Grand Canyon with interesting cliff formations.

Rafting a fun way to see the beautiful Switzerland scenery and an exciting experience for the whole family. Children age 10+ who can swim are welcome on rafting tours. 

Read about rafting experience in the Swiss Grand Canyon

If you want a sporty activity, climbing parks are a great way to exercise different muscles that hiking and test your mental courage. Most courses have long zip lines through the trees, free fall jumps, and a wide variety of obstacles for big and small.

Some climbing parks have mini-courses for small children from ages 4-8, so the whole family can enjoy the experience. 

See our favorite climbing parks in Switzerland

A Via Ferrata is an outdoor protected climbing route with steel cables, rungs and ladders fixed to the rock. You wear a harness and clip in and out of the safety cables as you progress through the course. Although you will need strength and flexibility, you don’t necessarily need traditional rock climbing experience to do a via ferrata.

Most are free to use, you only need to rent the equipment. At some places, you can book a guide, but most are self-service. One of the most well-known course is at Mürren Via Ferrata in the Jungfrau Region, with a tightrope, cliff walk and suspension bridge. Families with smaller children may enjoy the Brunnistöckli via ferrata at Brunni Engelberg .

See Via Ferrata courses in Switzerland

For a special activity, you could book a beginners glacier trek, where you get to explore the glacial ice with a guide. We did this with our pre-teens on the Aletsch glacier, the longest glacier in the alps at 22 km. You need to reserve glacier tours in advance. Rules vary, but most tours can accommodate children from age 8+.

If you need something cheaper and easier, there are many glaciers you can visit on your own and admire without walking on the ice.

Read more about our Aletsch glacier trek   

Exciting engineering marvels

If you want an easy and safe thrill, try a “cliff walk” attraction, where you can walk on protected walkways built into the side of cliffs. These are usually safe for small children, no skills or safety equipment required.

Most are free to use, after you pay for the gondola ride to reach the attraction. The most famous is probably the Grindelwald First cliff walk , which also has a glass-floor platform. We also like the Thrill Walk at Schilthorn Birg , also in the Jungfrau region.

Switzerland is full of interesting, sometimes slightly scary ways of getting up the mountain, including steep funiculars, open air cable cars, vintage steam-powered cogwheel trains, etc. One of the most exciting is the Gelmerbahn, the steep open-air funicular train shown below.

Many smaller mountain resorts have tiny 4 person cable cars that seem more like a toy than the impressive feat of engineering they really are. A few modern cable cars have open air platforms and spinning cars, making the ride up the mountain just as fun as the activities when you get there. 

See more crazy cable cars in Switzerland

You’ll find has lots of long bouncy suspension bridges in Switzerland that are slightly scary to cross. Some are easy to access, close to a gondola. Others require a hike to earn your thrill.

See the best suspension bridges in Switzerland

Indoor activities for rainy days

Several popular Swiss chocolate brands have fun interactive visitor centers where you can learn about the history and process of chocolate in Switzerland. Lindt Home of Chocolate near Zürich is the newest addition, a must-visit for any family in the region. Most have unlimited chocolate tasting while in the museum and chocolate workshops if you want to learn some skills.

See the best chocolate factory tours in Switzerland

Switzerland has dozens of fun family-friendly museums, packed with interactive exhibits that make learning fun. These museums cover a wide range of topics: science & technology, natural history, sensory exploration, food, sport, etc. Some of our favorites include Technorama and Luzern Transportation Museum

See the best museums for children in Switzerland

If the kids need a break from sightseeing, treat them to an indoor water park that have fun attractions like water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers as well as thermal baths and saunas for parents. One of our favorites is Säntispark near the Appenzell region. 

See the best indoor water parks in Switzerland

If little kids need somewhere to run around on a rainy day, Switzerland has lots of indoor playgrounds, full of amusements like climbing structures, bouncy castles, trampolines, and ball pits.

See the best indoor playgrounds near Zürich

Winter amusements for kids

Both kids and adults love the long sled runs in Switzerland, where you can sled 3 to 11 km down a mountain on a prepared sledding track. This is a great winter activity for non-skiers as it doesn’t take much skill. Although you can bring your own sled, it’s better to rent a high tech fancy sled that makes for a smooth ride and is much easier to steer.  One of the a great winter activities for non-skiers is sledding. Buon long sled runs like the 4km run at Elm , ice skating on disco rinks like the Dolder or frozen lakes like the Türlersee , and sleigh rides like in Davos

See the best long sled runs near Zürich

If it gets cold enough, some mountain lakes freeze thick enough that you can walk and skate on the ice. One of the most popular destinations is Oeschinensee, west of Interlaken. Machines prepare a walking path on the ice, so you can enjoy the views from a unique perspective. 

See more frozen lakes where you can ice skate

Many ski resorts in Switzerland have “fun parks” filled with jumps and racing courses. Some have jumps with air bag landings, making it easy to learn and practice big jumps. Some have timed race courses so you can compare speed with your friends. These fun parks don’t cost extra. You might just have to wait in line a bit for your favorite jump.

See the best ski resorts for families near Zürich

• TAGS: Activities for Kids , Best of Switzerland , Popular , Top 10 Lists for Switzerland

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5 Responses

Would like to visit Switzerland in August this year with my 9 yr old and 17 yr old boys. Would like to explore the hidden gems of Swiss where the boys can have fun too. If u can guide me on the same

If you need more help that what you find on my website, you can book a travel consultation with me as described here: https://swissfamilyfun.com/custom-itineraries-switzerland/

Your website is awesome! Thank you!

There is no link attached to: “See the best climbing parks in Switzerland.” Is there supposed to be one? Thanks

Thanks, I forgot to link that up. I’ll take care of that asap.

Your family sure knows how to have fun in Switzerland 🙂 Of all the acivities I like the seasonal ones best. There is also a local Zurich holiday in September, “Chnabeschüüse” a shooting competition for kids. I don’t care for the weapons, but there are tons of food stands and fairground rides!

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Hi! I’m Tanya and our family has been living & hiking in Switzerland since 2005, collecting dozens of fun hikes and activities for all ages and abilities. More about us…

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

Switzerland is known around the world for its chocolate, cheese, charming towns and scenic landscapes . Everywhere you turn, you're treated to a little bit of history and a little bit of nature's beauty, as well as plenty of mouthwatering cuisine in between. U.S. News considered factors like sights, culture, accessibility and variety of things to do, plus traveler and expert input, to calculate the best places to visit in Switzerland. Peruse the list below, and vote for your favorite spots.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

Interlaken's unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun – makes it a breathtaking spot for a vacation. Here, you can spend hours hiking various trails, taking in the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun on a boat cruise or gazing at the surrounding mountains from the Harder Kulm observation deck (accessible via a funicular). To see more of the region's stunning scenery, go for a ride on the Schynige Platte Railway or sign up for a paragliding or skydiving excursion.

Travelers looking to ski or snowboard in the Swiss Alps should head to Zermatt. This small, car-free town in the middle of the Alps is famous for housing one of the world's most famous attractions — the Matterhorn (a peak so popular that it inspired a Disneyland ride) — and Switzerland's highest ski resort. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can spend the bulk of their vacation hitting the slopes, which showcase incredible mountain views. After shredding powder, visitors can ride the Gornergrat train, pick up a slab of homemade chocolate from a local shop or savor cheese fondue at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and plenty of activities at the top.

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to sample the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face, or hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and Appenzeller Kapellenweg, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering evergreen mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and a Gothic cathedral with the highest spire in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, Engelberg is a winter playground, with a long, snowy season for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and sledding. But don't sleep on a summertime visit here; warmer months allow for a bevy of fun family activities like a toboggan run, 300-plus miles of hiking trails and water activities on Trübsee lake. Regardless of when you visit, you won't want to miss the TITLIS Rotair, a revolving cable car that takes riders up Mount Titlis, and the other cable lifts that stop at a glacier cave, a panoramic restaurant, and the TITLIS Cliff Walk.

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick closer to Earth's surface, prioritize a hike on a lower-level valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

Located less than 5 miles from Montreux, Vevey is another Lake Geneva gem. This town's picturesque promenade along the lake is filled with flowers and features a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. The Alimentarium, a nutrition-focused museum, also adorns the shoreline with its beautiful sandstone building, which once served as the headquarters to Nestlé (the company is still based in Vevey). After admiring the town, visitors can take a cog railway to the scenic Les Pléiades vantage point for its stunning views and the astronomy-centric Astropléiades trail.   

The second-largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is characterized by its renowned Gothic cathedral and surrounding hilly terrain. The stunning lake views and colorful city center don't hurt, either. Travelers can take in Lausanne's lively atmosphere by checking out the city's cafes, admiring the old town's beautiful architecture and perusing the exhibits at the Olympic Museum. No visit would be complete without venturing outside the city to nearby Lavaux, where you can enjoy wine from vineyards that are so scenic and well-preserved (some date back to the 11th century), the area was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland — From Quaint Villages to Glamorous Cities

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here are 20 of the best places to go in Switzerland.

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When you close your eyes and think of Switzerland, what do you see? Is it snow-capped mountains? Perhaps a verdant valley punctuated by springtime wildflowers? Or maybe it's a quaint Swiss city filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants. No matter which vision comes to mind, all of them are right — because Switzerland is all that and more. 

"Switzerland is small, yet we have four official languages, and every single one of the 26 cantons (states) is unique and has something different to offer," Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes , shared with Travel + Leisure . "There are different ways to explore and experience Switzerland, and there is something for everyone's interests: the outdoors, activities, luxury, a large number of festivals, food, culture, and history." 

Straub isn't the only one to see the nation's remarkable beauty. "Switzerland can offer you all Europa has to offer in one country," Tim Wehrle, a tour guide and underwater archaeologist in Zurich, said. "From lonely mountain valleys to a Mediterranean flair in the south of Switzerland, from busy nightlife to historic town centers, you can find everything in Switzerland." 

Ready to see it all? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

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“Zurich is a small gem with only 450,000 inhabitants, yet it's the largest and most vibrant city in Switzerland,” Straub shared. Zurich may be best known for its banking and shopping, but, as Staub noted, it “actually has a rich history dating back to the Romans.” Staub recommends seeing it all and learning everything you can on a walking tour with a local like her.

Mount Rigi Kulm

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Make your way to the top of Mount Rigi to get a view of three countries at once. The mountain, located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug, offers views of Switzerland, France, and Germany at the top, which you can reach by taking a train or hiking all the way .

Lake Lucerne

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Lake Lucerne offers some of Switzerland’s most fantastic views. The glittering lake stretches on for 43 square miles, offering visitors the chance to hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. 

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Make your way about an hour northeast of Lake Lucerne to the town of Rapperswil , which sits on Lake Zurich. The town is known for its abundant roses in the spring and summer and for its medieval architecture, including its very own castle.

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History lovers, this one is for you. Ticino, a town in southern Switzerland, is home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Bellinzona castles and Monte San Giorgio. Come explore them all year long, dive in the lake in summer, or take to the mountains for a ski trip in winter. 

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Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, travelers can find the town of Interlaken . It’s well known as an adventure-lovers paradise, offering the chance to hike, ski, paraglide, skydive, and more through the majestic mountain range surrounding the town.

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Quinten , which sits on the shores of Lake Walen, is the place to be for those who love to see everything on foot. The entire community is car-free and offers spectacular views throughout its terraced neighborhoods lined with vineyards overlooking the Churfirsten mountain range.

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Want another car-free adventure? Head to the picturesque town of Appenzell in northeast Switzerland. The small community of just 7,000 full-time residents is known for its hand-made cheeses, best enjoyed with a picnic out in the rolling green pastures. 

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Montreux, positioned on the shores of Lake Geneva, is loved for its palm-lined promenade, castles, and gorgeous alpine vistas. It’s also the place to be over the summer when it hosts the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which is worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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If you’re into cheese, you’ve likely heard the name Gruyère before. Visit its namesake town, located in southwest Switzerland, to dig into the cheese-making tradition and to visit its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape.

Oeschinen Lake

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Explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Switzerland with a visit to the glacial Oeschinen Lake. Like many places in Switzerland, this lake comes flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, and it offers more than its fair share of outdoor fun, including everything from hiking and biking to ice fishing in the winter.

Lavaux Vineyard

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Wine lovers will adore visiting Lavaux Vineyard, the nation’s largest contiguous vineyard area that goes on for nearly 2,000 acres. The vineyard is yet another one of Switzerland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Head to Stoos , a town located at 4,265 feet. The entire (car-free) town is adorable, but the coolest part is its funicular railway — which holds the record as the steepest on Earth — that takes guests some 2,400 feet high in under 10 minutes. 

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Find a little slice of luxury in St. Mortiz. The high-end town marries some of the best skiing in the world with some of the best shopping. It’s got glitz, glamour, and plenty of bona fides to back up its reputation as a winter sports heaven; St. Moritz hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games.

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Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its international organizations like the United Nations European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It’s also a spot where travelers can find luxuries galore, including high-end watch shops selling some of the most exclusive pieces on Earth.

Rhine Falls

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Feel the power of Mother Nature at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visitors can marvel at the thunderous waters from viewing platforms, and those feeling more adventurous can take boat trips for a closer experience. Just make sure to wear something waterproof.

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Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn, is one more car-free village that combines rustic charm with high-end amenities, including some of the best skiing in Europe. Of course, guests can explore the mountains all spring, summer, and fall by hiking and biking, or just enjoy the town’s fantastic (year-round) shopping opportunities.

Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers an enticing mix of old and new. The city has retained much of its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, now the setting for world-class dining venues, boutiques, and beer gardens, all worthy of visiting on your next trip.

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Find a little taste of Italy in Lugano, the largest Italian-speaking city in Switzerland (which counts Italian among its four official languages). The Swiss city offers more gorgeous promenades to stroll, along with delicious Italian-influenced restaurants and an art scene that can't be beaten. 

Swiss National Park

Get one more taste of Switzerland’s incredible natural beauty with a visit to Swiss National Park , located in the Engadin Valley. The park encompasses 68 square miles, making it a fantastic place to explore. While on a hike, see how many animals you can spot, including the park’s resident marmots, ibexes, and golden eagles.

VISIT SWITZERLAND WITH KIDS: TOP FIVE MUST SEE TOWNS FOR FAMILIES

Posted on Published: December 7, 2020

Home » Blog » VISIT SWITZERLAND WITH KIDS: TOP FIVE MUST SEE TOWNS FOR FAMILIES

Exploring Switzerland with kids is a dream for families who want to be outdoors exploring and adventuring – or indoors sampling fondu. Switzerland has some of the best skiing trails in the world and a myriad of exquisite hiking trails perfect for active families, and the views….ahhhh. It’s also a great country to visit if you have no interest in burning calories – after all, this is the cheese and chocolate capital of the continent.

Whether you’re looking to dip food in chocolate fountains or go on wild family adventures, you can do so in one of these top five family-friendly destinations in Switzerland!

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Nestled between two vast lakes, the resort town of Interlaken makes an excellent destination for a family trip. With an abundance of hiking trails to explore and lakeside activities to enjoy, any time spent here will be full of happiness and laughter.

Canoeing and rafting will take up most of your day, or you can bring your own inflatable kayak or stand up paddle board. But, if you venture just a little outside the charming town, you will find the Interlaken Adventure Park (Seilpark) . The place is popular for its zip lines and treetop bridges, which are fun for both kids and adults.

In case you find yourself longing for a little peace and quiet, the Höhematte park is where you should head. The vast grassy marks makes an amazing picnic spot, with picturesque mountain views everywhere you look.

A trip to Jungfrau Park is also a must for adrenaline-loving families. It’s open only in the summer though, but it’s certainly worth it to plan your trip around it. Take your kids to Mysty Land, a play area with bouncy castles, climbing towers, ball pits and more than a dozen other fun activities – you’ll have a hard time convincing them it’s time to go home. You can also do a day trip to the top of Jungfrau – it looks amazing.

Check out everything to do in Interlaken here.

Where to stay:

Accommodation here is not cheap, but it is beautiful and it’s all part of the experience.

The Boutique Hotel Bellevue is right on the river Aare and all rooms have balconies overlooking the river and mountains for around $340 AUD per night. It’s in an excellent location and the rooms are lovely.

A triple room at the Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof will set you back $199 AUD, and they have rooms for five people if you have a larger fam for around $290 with breakfast.

The newly opened Hey Hotel looks gorgeous and has family rooms for up to five people starting from $249 or $340 with breakfast.

You can find more Interlaken accommodation here .

Although the largest Swiss city might not be at the top of your list of family friendly destinations in Switzerland, it certainly deserves a spot there. With an abundance of fun things to do here – like visiting wineries and cruising on Zurich Lake – the entire family will enjoy their time in Zurich.

And do you know what else is on the menu when you’re in Zurich? All the chocolate you can possibly eat! It’s no secret that Switzerland is one of the largest producers of chocolate in the world, and Zurich is home to all the best shops including Laderach (my favorite), Sprungli and Lindt. Take your kids on a chocolate-tasting tour of the city, or take them to a workshop where you can all make chocolates together (offered by Laderach) – it will be both fun and delicious for everyone.  You can even visit the outlet shop at the Lindt factory in the suburbs of Zurich and take home some bargains!

And last but not least, if your kids are interested in time, why not indulge in a little watch history at the Beyer Watch Museum right in downtown Zurich. After all, what better place to learn about watches than Switzerland?

Check out all the activities in Zurich here.

For stays in the city take a look at CitizenM Zurich and Hotel City Zurich, and  for some wishful thinking check out Baur au Lac.

You can see all the Zurich hotels and check prices here.

If you’re visiting Lucerne in the winter months, you have a unique opportunity to take your family on a dog-sledding ride . It’s an incredibly fun activity that both the kids and the parents will love, and it’s certainly an exciting way to spend an afternoon.

Not only do you get to experience the joys of being pulled by a pack of strong huskies, but you can also make friends with the fluffy dogs. Visitors are often encouraged to give the huskies belly rubs and hugs, so we have a feeling your little ones will especially love this activity.

And if you’d prefer to stay in the city, you can always head to the Nature Museum . The permanent exhibits include minerals and crystals, insects and stuffed animals, while temporary exhibits have been known to feature some live animals as well! Your kids will love the gorgeous butterflies, while you admire the impressive wild boars – a visit to the museum is just what you need if you want to keep your trip educational!

And if you’d like a day of pampering take the train up to Mount Rigi and enjoy time in the natural mineral spa baths.

Take a look at all the activities in Lucerne here  and find where to stay in Lucerne here.

At the foot of the Matterhorn lies a town known for its gorgeous nature and luxurious hotels. Zermatt is one of the places in Switzerland that attracts people of all ages because it has so much to offer. From exciting ascents of the Matterhorn to thrilling treasure hunts – whether you want to enjoy your time with the kids or leave in the hands of someone you can trust, Zermatt is the place to go.

Zermatt even has a mascot that kids adore – Wolli the Blacknose sheep. He visits the town every Monday in the summer and loves meeting the youngest adventurers! He can even take the entire family on an educating hike, where you not only explore wonderful trails, but also learn about the climate phenomena.

And if you’re visiting in the winter, you can have heaps of fun just skiing and snowboarding. This resort town is known for some of the best skiing trails in the country, and an adventurous family will hardly get bored of them.

Check out everything to do in Zermatt here and where to stay in Zermatt here.

Lying on the banks of Lake Geneva, Montreux is often overlooked in favor of Geneva that’s just on the other side of the massive lake. But when talking about family friendly fun in Switzerland, we’d take Montreux over Geneva any day!

For one thing, Freddie Mercury owned an apartment here that you can actually rent. And you can take the entire family on a Queen studio experience – some quality music is always fun for the family!

You should also head south to Chillon Castle in Veytaux – it is absolutely spectacular and it looks and feels like something straight out of a fairytale. While parents can appreciate the exquisite architecture and rich history, kids can have fun roaming around the vast castle grounds and living out their own fairytales.

Another thing you’ll love about Montreux is the proximity of the wilderness. There’s a wildlife refuge just a few minutes outside city proper, with a plethora of hiking trails to explore. Enjoy scenic views of waterfalls, admire the gorgeous flora or just find a spot on one of the extensive plains and make it a fun-filled family day!

Check out where to stay in Montreux here.

About the author:

Anna was born to travel the world having studied languages all her life. She now calls Switzerland home and spends her time writing about her experiences on Expert World Travel .

And if you’re feeling nervous about travelling check out our comprehensive family travel safety guide  HOLIDAY SAFE: The complete guide to staying safe when traveling with kids  It has everything you need to know about traveling safely on our family holiday or extended trip.

Most Scenic Train Routes

Switzerland's Nature Parks

How to Go Skiing

The Top Hikes

Matterhorn Complete Guide

The Most Beautiful Lakes

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Switzerland Airports

Getting Around

Places to Visit in Switzerland

Top Things to Do in Switzerland

Top Things to Do in Geneva

One Week Itinerary

One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

Switzerland is a small country compared to many of its European neighbors, but you'll still need more than a week to take it all in. If a week is all you've got, this itinerary will give you a taste of the best the country has to offer, taking you from cities to mountains and medieval towns to sparkling lakes. You'll use the cities of Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, and Geneva for exploring Swiss history and culture, taking in the stunning scenery, and sampling Swiss cuisine. Your time will be split between both French and German-speaking Switzerland, so you'll also get a feel for how these two cultures blend and co-exist.

Skip the rental car for this itinerary, which we've specifically designed to be done via public transportation. Armed with a Swiss Travel Pass , you'll have nearly unlimited use of Switzerland's excellent network of trains, buses, and ferries. Some mountain cable cars, ski gondolas, and cog railways are also included with the pass, making car-free sightseeing in Switzerland a breeze.

Day 1: Zurich

Hopefully, you caught some shut-eye on your flight to Zurich, so you can enjoy a full day exploring Switzerland's largest city. Zurich offers an engaging mix of history and innovation, and at turns the young and old sides of Switzerland. From the airport, take the train to Zurich's main station, where you can walk, tram, or cab to your central hotel—we recommend you make you choose a base in or close to the Altstadt, or Old Town, and figure on getting around the city on foot or via trams. In the Altstadt, don't miss the mighty Grossmunster cathedral, and take time to wander the main drag, the Neiderdorf, and the mostly pedestrian streets that fan off from it.

Cross the Limmat River, pausing to take in city views and the sight of swans, swimmers (depending on the time of year), and tour boats along this pretty waterway. Stroll the Bahnhofstrasse—reportedly Europe's most expensive shopping street—even if it's just for window-shopping, and duck into Zurich's other grand cathedral, the Fraumunster. In the afternoon, head down to the Limmatquai for a boat tour of Lake Zurich, or hit one of the city's top museums.

That evening, plan on dinner at the cavernous Zeughauskeller , famous for its meter-long sausages and setting in a 15th-century arsenal.

Day 2: Day Trip to St. Gallen and Appenzell

This morning, hop on a train headed east for the hour-long ride to St. Gallen—trains depart about every 20 minutes from Zurich Main Station. Once there, spend some time exploring the Abbey of St Gall , a complex that dates back centuries and which has also been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can easily spend a few hours wandering the sites of the abbey, which include a library that contains more than 150,000 books, including priceless early medieval illuminated manuscripts, and the Baroque abbey cathedral.

In St. Gallen town, wander among the half-timber houses of the pedestrian-only Old Town, and take in the Textilmuseum , with its displays of historic clothing and machinery.

If you're up for a longer day, jump down to the town of Appenzell after lunch—just a 30-minute ride from St. Gallen—for a glimpse at the Appenzell canton, Switzerland's richest in terms of folk traditions. Spend a couple of hours in this charming town, then transfer back to St. Gallen and on to Zurich for the night.

Day 3: Lucerne

Chinnaphong Mungsiri/GettyImages

Today you'll switch gears and locations, from busy Zurich to more sedate Lucerne , your base for the next two nights. The largest city on Lake Lucerne is worthy of a visit on its own, and is also a stepping-off point for exploring the surrounding Alps and lake region. Lucerne town has a pretty center filled with half-timber houses and cozy inns and eateries— Wirsthaus Taube is a great choice for rosti, one of the must-try foods of Switzerland . The historical museum has living history presentations that will interest kids and adults, and a short bus ride away, the Swiss Transport Museum is easily one of the top museums in the country. Lucerne's most famous landmark, the 14th-century Chapel Bridge, is a must-see.

Once you've explored Lucerne in the morning, make an afternoon excursion to Mount Pilatus, an all-season playground more than 2,000 meters above sea level. From Kriens, a short bus ride from Lucerne, take the Panorama Gondola on a breathtaking 30-minute ride to the top of Pilatus, where you'll find hiking, an adventure park, restaurants, and soaring views.

Day 4: Boat Ride to Rigi or Rutli

MySwitzerland.com

Spend at least part of the day on the waters of Lake Lucerne, with a scenic boat ride around one of Switzerland's most beautiful lakes . Your Swiss Travel Pass grants you hop-on/hop-off access to the boats of the Lake Lucerne Navigation System , which ply the lake year-round.

Head to Vitznau, where you might be tempted to spend the night at the 5-star, lakefront Park Hotel Vitznau —or at least consider a scenic lakeside lunch there. From Vitznau, climb aboard the historic cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm at the top of Mt. Rigi, and take an easy hike back down, at least part of the way—there are places to eat at several of the railway stops.

For a big dose of Swiss history, take the boat from Lucerne to the Rütli Meadow, the birthplace of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. The journey here is more than half the fun—the boat ride is more than two hours, and traverses nearly the full length of Lake Lucerne.

Day 5: Bern

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Take a morning train from Lucerne to the Swiss capital of Bern , about a 60-90 minute ride. From Bern's main station, you're about a 10-minute walk from the Alstadt, or Old Town, which dates back to the 12th century and is another of Switzerland's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bern is built into a sharp bend in the Aare River, which historically made it easier to defend and, aesthetically, placed it in a beautiful setting. Make sure you visit the Zytglogge historical clock just before the top of the hour, so you won't miss the rooster crowing and the complicated display of dozens of mechanical moving figures.

Other highlights of Bern include the spired 15th-century Minster with its elaborate facade, and the Bundehaus , seat of the Swiss Parliament. Science and history fans will enjoy a visit to the Einstein House , where the physicist lived for two years, and art lovers should head to the Zentrum Paul Klee , the museum and cultural center dedicated to the 20th century abstract artist.

If you visit Bern in the summer, be sure to take a swim in the Aare River—it's a favorite warm-weather pastime of locals. During the holiday season, Bern is home to several lively Christmas markets.

Day 6: Day Trip to Interlaken and the Jungfraujoch

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Bern is less than an hour away by train from Interlaken, which bills itself as Switzerland's "adventure capital"—and that's saying a lot in a country rich with opportunities for active travel. Set between lakes Thun and Brienz, Interlaken is the perfect base for exploring a number of surrounding glaciers and mountain peaks, most notably the Jungfraujoch.

Via train, cable car, and cogwheel rail, make the journey to the "Top of Europe"—the 3,454-meter Jungfraujoch station at the end of the line. Here, besides journeying to the highest train station in Europe, you'll be treated to views of the Aletsch Glacier—Europe's longest at 22 kilometers, as well as the Eiger, Mönch, and the Jungfrau peaks. There's snow year-round at the top (so dress appropriately!), as well as a snow park, an ice cave, observatories, and bars and restaurants. Swiss Pass holders get a discount on train tickets to the Jungfraujoch.

If you decide to stay in Interlaken, you can still soar high above the city and its lakes, thanks to several paragliding outfitters—you see tandem riders in the skies from dawn to dusk. Skywings and Twin Paragliding are both recommended operators. If paragliding sounds a little too spine-tingling, try a scenic boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, which is included with the Swiss Travel Pass. Or simply enjoy the historic Old Town and abundant shopping and dining in Interlaken before hopping the train back to Bern.

Day 7: Geneva

TripSavvy / Angelina Pilarinos

This morning, take an early train from Bern to Geneva and get there in less than two hours. Your trip will wind down in the largest city in French-speaking Switzerland and the diplomatic center of Europe, home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent. Both offer tours and museums, as does CERN—the European Organization for Nuclear Research that's home to the Large Hadron Collider. We suggest picking one of these sites to visit, and then spending the rest of your day enjoying Geneva's scenic lakefront, and its ancient Old Town. At St. Pierre Cathedral and the Museum of the Reformation , you can learn about Geneva's role in the rise of Protestantism.

On your last evening in Switzerland, if you haven't had any yet—and even if you have— top off your vacation with a dinner of traditional cheese fondue. Cafe du Soliel has been serving it for 400 years, along with cured meats and regional desserts, including delicate meringues. The next day, head back to your point of origin, and say your farewells to a perfect week in one of Europe's most beautiful destinations.

Switzerland Travel Guide

The Top 9 Scenic and Novelty Train Rides in Switzerland

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Things to Do in Switzerland

11 Great Day Trips From Zurich

Getting Around Switzerland: Guide to Public Transportation

The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

A Guide to Airports in Switzerland

The Most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

The 12 Best Hikes in Switzerland

How to Travel Between Italy and Switzerland by Train

The 10 Best Things to Do in Bern, Switzerland

Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

How to Use Swiss Trains and the Swiss Travel Pass

The Top 15 Things to Do in Zurich

The Complete Guide to Switzerland's Nature Parks

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland with the Family

Switzerland, a country so blessed with majestic, jaw-dropping views, and heavenly sceneries requires little introduction, but deserves all the wonderful adjectives. Every time I hear about Switzerland, I get excited! It is a winter wonderland that is home to some of the most fascinating places on the planet. Here are the 10 best places to visit in Switzerland with your family.

1. Matterhorn, Zermatt

There is a reason why this place is considered to be one of the most photographed peaks in the world – its beauty is unrealistically fascinating. Its natural wonders have captured the hearts of snowboarders, skiers, and even international tourists. Photos of Matterhorn and even of the town where it is located, Zermatt, are all over magazines, postcards, and the Internet. Its pinnacle, believed to be the logo-inspiration of the world-renowned chocolate company – Toblerone, lies along the Alps. Though not everyone is bold enough to reach the summit, your family can definitely enjoy the cable car ride to Zermatt during winter or walk to various sites during summer.

With a colorful history that dates back to the 12 th century, Bern, the Swiss capital is a wonderful place to take the kids to learn Switzerland’s medieval past. While parents explore the city’s shopping complex, kids can go around visiting museums, historical sites, and churches.

Home to Lake Zurich, Zurich is a global financial center and a cultural hub. The city appeals to anyone whose inclination is into culture and history. To top it all off, they have more than 50 museums and hundreds of art galleries that your kids will love. Hiking off some famous trails in the mountains, shopping for some internationally-known Swiss brands, or visiting the Swiss National Museum is not a bad idea to kill the time.

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in the word, Lucerne, the German-speaking city of Switzerland, has it all – the city life, the lake, and the mountain. It is in this city where you can find the world-renowned Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, which is said to be the most photographed monument in all of Switzerland.

This Italian-speaking city of Switzerland is the best place to spend summer in the country. Blessed with the heat of summer sun, Lugano provides travelers with several outdoor activities in the lake. Dubbed the “Monte Carlo of Switzerland,” celebrities frequent the Swiss summer capital for its beauty, heritage sites, and lively atmosphere.

Thanks to its international influences such as the International Red Cross Committee and the United Nations, Geneva is probably more popular than the Swiss capital of Bern. Given that Geneva is a “green city,”a family trip to this beautiful city will be worthwhile, especially if the kids love visiting parks.  Nicknamed the “city of parks,” kids can run freely or play around. Biking on pedestrian-friendly lanes or boating on Lake Geneva are popular activities, too.

A glitzy luxury resort in the Alpine Engadin Valley, St. Moritz is one of the world’s best winter holiday destinations . St. Moritz, a UNESCO Heritage site whose name is a trademark and synonymous with style and class, is famous for its winter sports that the family will love.

8. Juangfrau Region

Enchanting views of the “big three” Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger await those who wander this part of Switzerland. This winter wonderland in the Alps offers travelling families a plethora of activities and a wide range of hotel options, including the resort towns of Wengen, Mürren und Lauterbrunnen. Skiing in Grindelwald is also an ideal family activity during winter.

9. Rhine Falls

Switzerland is not only home to one of Europe’s largest lakes but also to Europe’s largest waterfall, the Rhine Falls! Even though the falls can be reach through several villages and entry points, it is commonly associated with Schaff hausen. Rhine is a mighty waterfall  of 29 feet (150 meters) wide and 75 feet (23 meters) high. A huge amount of water welcomes travelers and tourists traveling in May or June, when the water level is at its peak.

10. Interlaken

Interlaken used to be known as Switzerland’s watch making center, but today it is more popular as a tourist resort. This highland is popular to tourists who love to try spa treatment or simply want to enjoy the spectacular view of the mountain peaks of Eiger, Jungfrau, and the Monch. It also served as the basecamp for adventurous paragliders.

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Best cities to visit in Switzerland with teenagers

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Switzerland is a diverse country in every sense. From the Alps to the lakes, from the cities to the villages, from the vineyards to the forests, Switzerland with teenagers is an ideal destination for a family holiday.

Facts about Switzerland for families:

Money-saving tourist passes for switzerland, best places to stay for families in basel:, best places to stay for families in geneva:, best places to stay in lucerne:, where to stay in bern:, best adventure activities for teenagers near lausanne, more travel inspiration for your trip to europe with teens.

Switzerland is best known for its natural beauty, safety, and quality of life. It has a lot of attractions to offer to tourists that want a vacation that has it all. It is best known for its scenic mountains, valleys, world-class skiing, cities and charming old towns.

Switzerland has a population of about 8 million people and is an amazing location for a vacation with teens.

Key Takeaways

• We review the 5 best cities in Switzerland: Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Lausanne and Bern for a holiday with teenagers
• You should base yourself in these cities as they have a variety of activities that suit teenagers and parents making them the best places to stay in Switzerland
• Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Lausanne and Bern have a wide range of accommodations to suit families and are easily accessible from domestic and international points of origin

Why should I visit Switzerland with teenagers?

Switzerland is the best country in Europe for teenage adventure seekers. From skiing to hiking, to caving, Switzerland has it all. For those looking for a more relaxed vacation, there are plenty of charming towns, museums and galleries to visit.

Not to be missed are the lakeside picturesque towns and stunning lakes of Switzerland . Make sure you visit some of the largest lakes including Lake Lugano, Lake Thun, Lake Maggiore and Lake Brienz.

These are some of the most stunning places in beautiful Switzerland to visit, surrounded by imposing mountains and historical sites.

There are a few things you should know when you are planning a trip to Switzerland with teenagers. There are always basic travel tips for Switzerland that will make your vacation a breeze.

• Switzerland Population : 8.6 Million
• Capital City: Bern
• Currency of Switzerland: Swiss Franc
• Languages: Swiss, German, Italian and Romansh

What are the best cities in Switzerland for teenagers?

Discover the mesmerising allure of Switzerland’s beautiful cities and experience the enchanting beauty they offer. From vibrant urban hubs to breathtaking scenic marvels, Switzerland boasts a plethora of stunning destinations waiting to be explored.

Embark on a journey through Switzerland’s cities and experience their captivating charm and cobblestone streets, where modernity seamlessly blends with natural splendour.

Switzerland’s cities offer a diverse array of attractions and activities, catering to all types of family travellers. Explore the rich cultural heritage in Zurich, the financial capital and cultural hub of the country.

Take in the beauty of Lucerne, a city nestled amidst the Swiss Alps and dotted with historic landmarks. Traverse the enchanting streets of Geneva , a cosmopolitan city situated along the pristine shores of Lake Geneva.

With an abundance of beautiful cities to choose from, Switzerland in Central Europe is a popular destination for families with teens. Young adults will experience mountain ranges and famous attractions.

Uncover stunning views, Swiss chocolate and world class medieval buildings as you fall in love with the local culture, and create unforgettable memories in Switzerland’s most beautiful cities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to of Switzerland’s charming cities on your next adventure.

Zurich Switzerland

Zurich is a beautiful city in Switzerland. It is a perfect destination for tourists and adventure seekers. There are many attractions and sights to explore in Zurich.

The city of Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland with its cobblestone streets and charming old town, it has a lot to offer on any Switzerland itinerary. In the international city you will find museums , art galleries, theatres, and concert halls while offering fun on hikes and water sports in Lake Zurich.

The Swiss Canton of Zurich is a city that is not only rich in culture but also in natural beauty. The city of Zurich has many attractions and sights to offer, as well as plenty of fun activities for teenagers and families.

For the teenage adventure seekers in the family, there are many of day trips available to snow capped mountains where you can go can do winter sports like skiing. Hiking trails on the surrounding mountains, visiting alpine lakes and taking a cable car to ski resorts are also popular. For older teens, they can enjoy the nightlife in Zurich, which offers plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Best things to do in Zurich for young adults:

If you’re looking for things to do in Zurich with young adults , you won’t be disappointed. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in art and culture, history, or natural beauty. Here are just a few of the many things you can do in this Swiss city.

• The Home of Lindt Chocolate
• Zurich City Tour
• Eat cheese fondue
• Swiss National Museum
• E -Scooter Tour
• FIFA World Football Museum
• Segway tours
• Go on a boat cruise
• Segway Tour

Go-Karting, Alpamare Water Park, and water activities on Lake Zurich . For more great things to see in Zurich, search Trip Advisor , Viator and Get Your Guide.

Best day trips from Zurich for families:

Zurich has no shortage of amazing day trips for families looking to explore different destinations in the Swiss Alps. You can take the Glacier Express up the mountains and see places such as the Matterhorn, Mount Titlis, Lake Thun, Thun Castle and Interlaken.

Best teenage adventure activities near Zurich:

You can try hot air ballooning , beginners paragliding experiences and white water rafting to name a few activities near Zurich for teenagers.

If you’re looking to hit the slopes in Switzerland near Zurich , your best options are Amden and Sattel-Hochstuckli are only an hour from Zurich by public transport. These two resorts are ideal for beginners wanting to experience skiing and snowboarding. Make sure you wear warm layers of clothing , waterproof boats and bring a suitable backpack .

Best places to stay in Zurich for families:

Zurich has many options when it comes to family accommodation options. For a great all-around hotel for families, we recommend the Leoneck Swiss Hotel in the city centre.

For those looking for a bit of luxury, you should try the Storchen Zurich – Lifestyle Boutique and budget travellers can try the  EMA House Hotel Suites  and Zurich Youth Hostel .

If you’re looking for something a little different, try Expedia for hotels and VRBO for apartments in Zurich or if you are looking for  next-level accommodation in Zurich and the surrounds Plum Guide  has some magnificent stays around Switzerland.

More Switzerland Inspiration: Best things to do in Zurich with teens

• Swiss Travel Pass – 3,4,8 or15 days of consecutive train travel in Switzerland
• Swiss Coupon Pass – 50% discount on food, sightseeing tours, entrance fees
• Geneva Pass – Save on over 40 attractions and free public transport
• Eurail Global Mobile Pass – Travel by train across 33 countries in Europe
• Geneva City Pass – Receive free offers, preferential rates, great discounts, and surprise gifts at over 40 of Geneva’s favorite attractions
• Swiss Half Fare Pass – 50% discount on unlimited tickets on trains, buses, and boats
• Zurich Card – Free or reduced admissions, Unlimited public transport and more
• Unlimited 4G Pocket Wi-Fi – Benefit from no speed or data restrictions, and share your high-speed connection on up to 5 mobile devices.
• Multi-day Regional Pass – Unlimited travel in Bern, Lucerne, Interlaken, Saanen, and Brig by train, bus, boat, mountain railway

Switzerland with teenagers – Basel

Basel is located in the northwest part of the country near where the borders of Switzerland, Germany and France meet. The city of Basel has a population of about 160,000 people and is famous for its beautiful architecture, museums, and parks. Basel is considered the cultural capital of Switzerland.

The city has a lot to offer for tourists and locals alike with easy day trips to sites in Germany and France. There are many museums, galleries, and theatres that you can visit.

You can also take a boat ride on the Rhine River or go on an adventure in the Swiss Alps. There are many things to do in Basel Switzerland for teenagers and families alike!

Best things to do in Basel:

Teens in Switzerland visiting Basel will find many things to do both cultural and exciting. Basel is a great city because it has some great educational opportunities for your teenagers , but also enough fun and interesting activities to keep teenagers visiting Switzerland happy.

A visit to The Basel Old Town, taking in the Jean Tinguely Museum , cruising the Rhine River or visiting the Basel Zoo are popular options for families in Basel with teenagers.

Best day trips from Basel Switzerland with teens:

There are a number of exciting tours for families in Switzerland with teenagers wanting to visit the Alps from Basel. Alternatively, you can easily visit the Alsace region of France and towns like Mulhouse and Colmar or Germany and places like Freiburg , The Black Forest or Europa Park.

Accommodation in Basel for families comes in all shapes and sizes to suit families of all sizes and budgets. Some good choices in Basel are the Odelya Hotel , Ibis Styles Basel City and for a budget option, Basel Youth Hostel .

If you’re looking for something a little different, try Expedia for hotels and VRBO for apartments in Basel.

Discover more: 18 tried and tested tips to make vacations with teens a breeze

Visiting Geneva in Switzerland with young adults

Geneva is the second most populous city in Switzerland and home to the United Nations headquarters. It is located where the Rhône River meets Lake Geneva. The Swiss capital is a beautiful city with many attractions, culture, history, sites and food to offer.

Geneva is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. The city has many attractions and sites that are worth visiting. The city is rich in culture and history that can be explored through museums, galleries, and other historical buildings.

The food in Geneva is also worth trying as it has many types of cuisine to offer visitors. There are also many opportunities for adventure in Geneva with teens, such as hiking or skiing on nearby mountains or exploring the lakeside by boat or kayak.

Best things to do in Geneva:

Like most cities in Switzerland, Geneva is a city on the water, making it Instagram-friendly at every turn. You will find chocolate experiences on taxi bikes and hop on hop-off bus tours to show you the city.

• Geneva Chocolate Tour
• Visit Jet d’Eau a large fountain in Geneva
• Geneva City Tour
• Virtual Reality Adventure
• Eat swiss chocolate

Jump in a kayak or go on one of the many Cruises on Lake Geneva which will provide a unique perspective and stunning scenery of the city. The Geneva city pass will give you discounts all over Geneva. Search for more fun things to do in Switzerland with teenagers with Viator and Get Your Guide for your Geneva visit with family.

Best day trips with teens from Geneva:

Like all cities in Switzerland, day trips to the Swiss Alps locations such as Chamonix and Mont Blanc , Glacier 3000 , Interlarken and destinations in France such as Evian and Annecy

Adventure activities near Geneva Swisse for teenagers:

Geneva has plenty of options when it comes to exciting outdoor activities for teens in Switzerland. The Rhone River is great for canoeing and paddleboarding, while nearby you can try rafting, mountain biking and Geo caching just to name a few.

Teenagers in Switzerland wanting to ski can try Chamonix in France . Which is just an hour away from Geneva . Switzerland tourist places do not come any better than Geneva.

The La Reserve Geneva Hotel is located on the banks of Lake Geneva and welcomes families. While Novotel Suites and Holiday Inn Express are good options.

If you’re looking for something a little different, try Booking.com for hotels and VRBO for apartments in Geneva .

Europe travel with teens: See the best of Prague with teens

Switzerland with teenagers – Lucerne

Lucerne Switzerland is the perfect destination for a family vacation. It has plenty of attractions, sites, and activities that will interest both teenagers and adults.

There are many different vacation sites and attractions to keep everyone happy . The city is also very safe, making it a great choice for a holiday destination.

The city is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland and has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century. The city center is home to the world-famous chapel bridge and well preserved culturally significant city walls. The city is located on the northern shores of Lake Lucerne with picturesque snow capped mountains nearby

Lucerne is a city made for walking, so make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes , drink bottle and a good backpack for carrying any essentials like sunscreen.

Water sports in the summer months are popular in Lake Lucerne, in Central Switzerland. Lucerne is a great family vacation destination , especially if you are travelling with teens.

Best things to do in Lucerne:

Lucerne has a strong culture and history, meaning tourism activities not to miss include the 700-year-old Musegg wall, Lucerne’s water tower, lion monument, city walks , e-bike tours, The Olympic Museum and the Swiss Transport Museum.

For those looking for a challenge, a Lucerne scavenger hunt would be fun while a Swiss chocolate tasting will suit teens in Switzerland on vacation. There are so many great things to do in Lucerne for families visiting Switzerland.

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Day trips from Lucerne:

There are many wonderful day trips that can be taken from Lucerne, Switzerland. Some of the most popular destinations include the quaint Montreux and its statue of Freddie Mercury, Rigi Kulm , Lake Lucerne, Mt Pilatus Grindelwald and Interlaken .

Each of these destinations offers something unique and is sure to create lasting memories for families taking a Switzerland vacation . Switzerland family tours are a great option and make sightseeing easy. Search for more amazing day trips from Lucerne .

Adventure activities for teenagers in and around Lucerne:

Activities such as tandem paragliding over the Alps, Canyoning in the Shilere River , exploring caves , taking a scenic helicopter flight, Ice fishing or having fun at the Grindelwald first mountain adventure.

For families looking to take to the slopes for skiing, snowboarding , snowshoeing or tobogganing near Lucerne you can buy day passes at Hoch-Ybrig and The Globi Winterland Klostermatte at Brunni.

These ski fields are some of the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter. For more amazing outdoor action and adventure in Switzerland with teenagers, search Manawa .

When you are planning a trip to Switzerland with teenagers you’ll never be short of options for your family accommodation in Lucerne.

In Lucerne, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday in Switzerland. You will be sure to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to the Swiss Riviera.

Switzerland on a budget: 30+ realistic and achievable tips for budget travel in Switzerland

Teenagers’ favorite spots in Switzerland – Bern

If you’re looking for a breathtaking, picturesque European city to take your teenagers on vacation, look no further than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bern, Switzerland. With its stunning Alpine backdrop, quaint medieval Old Town and a plethora of activities, Bern is the perfect place to keep your teens occupied – and happy.

From hiking and biking in the summer to skiing and sledding in the winter, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Your teens will never be bored in Bern. With its lively nightlife and vibrant culture, Bern is also a great place for adults to enjoy.

Main attractions in Bern, Switzerland:

Bern is the capital of Switzerland and is brimming with activities to keep teenagers entertained. From exploring the old city to visiting museums and parks, there is something for everyone in Bern.

Some of the best things to do in Bern with teens include the Bern Aqua Water Park, The Museum of Communication, The Bear Park a Scavenger hunt and an Instagram tour .

Families looking for a more cultural experience in Bern should consider a Bern Self-Guided Audio Tour , a visit to the Einstein Museum and a tour of the Bern Old Town .

Best day trips from Bern:

Some popular day trips include excursions to Jungfraujoch (the highest railway station in Europe), Lauterbrunnen (a picturesque valley with many hotels and activities), Schilthorn Piz Gloria (James Bond), Interlaken (a major destination for tourists), Zermatt Village, lake brienz or Lucerne.

A day trip to many of these locations feature breathtaking views and natural attractions are only a short train ride away and are included in many of the Switzerland rail passes.

Best adventure activities for teenagers near Bern:

Activities such as hiking and mountain biking are able to be done directly from Bern while rafting and stand-up paddleboarding are accessible nearby. Families looking to ski, snowboard and more near Bern should try out Gantrisch Gurnigel and Axalp ob Brienz .

The capital of Switzerland has many business-class hotels for visitors and tourists alike. In Bern, you can stay at Novotel Bern Expo , Hotel 77 Bern or the Bern Youth Hostel.

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Lausanne, the home of international organizations such as the International Olympic Committee.

The city in southern Switzerland is located on the gorgeous Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Switzerland. It’s the fourth-largest city, with historic attractions such as a gothic cathedral from the Middle Ages.

Brace yourself and your teens in Switzerland for a food adventure like no other. From local delights to international faves, you’ll be stuffing your face with deliciousness in this charming city!

And hold up, thrill-seekers, this city’s got something for you too! If you’re up for some action, get ready for epic hikes and wicked skiing on the nearby mountains. And if you’re into water sports, hop aboard a boat or kayak and hit the lakeside like a boss.

Popular attractions in Lausanne

There’s a whole bunch of attractions, culture, and history waiting for you to explore. You won’t be able to resist checking out all those museums, galleries, and medieval architecture. It’s like stepping back in time!

The best way to see it all is from a helicopter tour above the city. For teens who love sports, you can visit the Olympic Museum , or if you’re into social media , you can capture the most Photogenic Spots in the Olympic capital.

Take a walking tour for a few hours and discover beautiful places in Lausanne.There are a number of scavenger hunts and outdoor escape games that families can play while wandering around the cobbled streets and past lovely shops.

See this most beautiful city from the waters of lake Geneva on one of the many boat cruises .

Best day trips from Lausanne

From Lausanne you can head to Montreux and soak in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Riviera. Or how about a trip to Gruyères , where you will have the best time eat delicious cheese and chocolate .

Don’t miss swiss heritage sites like Lavaux Vineyard Terraces , a UNESCO World Heritage site, for some epic wine tasting for teens over 18 and sweeping views. These day trips will have you falling head over heels in love with Switzerland’s rolling hills and rich culture.

Activities like Stand-Up Paddle boarding , sailing , canoeing can be done at Lausanne on Lake Geneva.

While further away but still close by, teens in Switzerland will love Hydro Speeding down the Dranse River or caving .

If you plan ahead in the summer months, you can try water activities like Wakeboarding and water skiing near the Swiss town of Villeneu or even maybe a tandem paragliding flight in a picture perfect location.  

How to get to Switzerland with teenagers

The best way to get to travel to Switzerland is by plane. There are many airports in Switzerland, but the most popular one is Zurich Airport.

It is located about 15 kilometres from the city centre and it has a train station that connects it to the city. You can search for cheap flights to Zurich with WayAway .

The next best option for getting to Switzerland is by train . There are many trains that go through Switzerland, but the most popular one is the Eurostar. It goes through France and Italy before reaching its final destination in Geneva or Zurich. Germany which is north of Switzerland is also serviced by this train

A second option for getting to Switzerland is by bus. Most buses are via the Eurolines bus company and Flix Bus . These companies service the best tourist places Switzerland from all over Europe.

The third best way of getting to Switzerland is by car . The highways in Switzerland are well-maintained and there are no tolls on them, so it’s easy to drive on them without any problems.

The only downside of driving on Swiss highways is that they can be quite expensive because of the need to maintain the highways well.

Switzerland has some of the most expensive car insurance in Europe, so they need their highways to be well-maintained to offset these costs.

Food in Switzerland for teens

When it comes to food, Switzerland is known for its delicious cheese and chocolate. However, there is so much more to the country’s cuisine than just these two staples. Swiss food is hearty and filling, perfect for a cold winter day.

Dishes like rosti (a type of potato pancake) and raclette (melted cheese served with potatoes and pickled vegetables) are popular among locals and visitors alike.

If you’re looking for something sweet, don’t miss out on trying Swiss meringue or pumpkinseed oil cake. And of course, no trip to Switzerland with teenagers would be complete without washing everything down with a glass of locally-produced wine or beer. So next time you’re in the Alps, make sure to sample some of the delicious food Switzerland has to offer.

Read more:  10 of the best cities in Europe for the best vacations for families with teenagers

What should teens expect in Switzerland?

When travelling to Switzerland, there are a few customs that visitors should be aware of in order to make the most of their trip. Firstly, it is important to note that Switzerland is a very clean and orderly country.

As such, visitors are expected not to litter in public places and dispose of their rubbish properly. Secondly, visitors should also be aware that many Swiss people speak more than one language.

English is widely spoken thanks to the rise of  TEFL online teaching jobs  in the country, but it is always appreciated if visitors can attempt to speak some German or French. Finally, it is worth noting that the Swiss take punctuality very seriously.”

So, if you have an appointment or meeting, it is best to arrive on time or even early. By following these simple tips, visitors will be sure to have a smooth and enjoyable experience in Swiss cities and towns.

Essentials for vacations in Switzerland with teens

There are a few items that should be on your must-get list well before you take off for your holiday in Switzerland with teenagers. You don’t want any unwanted or unexpected bills when you return home so some of the items below are things you shouldn’t plan a trip to Switzerland with teens without.

Essential Switzerland travel items:

These top few points are things we never, ever leave home without. We always say if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel and we still stand by that today. We’ve also touched on money and visas.

• For International travellers, travel insurance is a must, get a  quote through Insurance Masters  and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.
• Do you need a visa to visit Switzerland with teens? Some countries in Europe may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and   buy these documents at iVisa.
• Load  a Revolut Travel Money card  with Swiss Franc for your visit and save on transaction fees

Safety items for your Swiss adventure with teens:

There is nothing worse than a bored teen and having availability to the internet is important. Not only for communicating with each other while you are away this connection allows them to feel like they are not missing out at home too.

• Make phone calls with an   international sim card   that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a  virtual e-sim   for your mobile phone.
• A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can   rent a pocket modem  that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively  buy a pocket modem  that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer.
• Make sure you grab a VPN for your trip.   VPN Proxy Master   has plans available from one month to one year to help keep your data safe from hackers and malware while traveling.

Comfort, internal travel and hassle-free transport options:

Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as traveling with young kids so to make their trip to Switzerland go well a little vacation planning goes far.

Getting your internal transport sorted can take a lot of stress off arriving in a new place off you all. It leads to a smooth transition into a new destination and sets the holiday off on the right foot. Here are some of the must-haves for making that possible.

• If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world.  Search now for your lounge pass
• You can easily book your  train tickets with Omio  here to save you time and the hassle of navigating a new city and the train station. One route not to miss is the Bernina express, which runs from Switzerland to Italy and provides amazing views.
• We can personally recommend  Kiwi Taxi transfers  from the airport to the city
• Eurolines and  Flix bus  arrives and departs hourly from most major cities in Europe and are a great, budget-friendly way to see Switzerland with teenagers
• You can reserve a  rental car  and have it waiting for you at many of the Airports in Europe

In conclusion, a family vacation to Switzerland with teens can be a great experience. The country has a lot to offer in terms of activities and attractions, and the teens will undoubtedly enjoy themselves. Switzerland is an expensive country, but with a little planning and preparation, you can finance your trip , so that it is smooth and enjoyable for everyone involved.

We hope this article from us here at   Wyld Family Travel  has inspired you to plan a family vacation to Switzerland with teenagers. As you can see there are some wonderful cities in Switzerland for families with teenagers.

Travel with teenagers and tweens . Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations can be so time-consuming. Planning a family holiday can be stressful and finding the best tips for travel is essential. 

• Travel for teens in Europe
• Travel teens tips, tricks and advice
• Travel with teens in Asia
• Travel teens in the Middle East
• Travel teens in Australasia
• Travel for teens Americas

Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

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Author bio:.

Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not discussing travel or planning travel, you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.

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15 Best Places To Visit In Switzerland In Summer in 2024

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Home » 15 Best Places To Visit In Switzerland In Summer in 2024

Switzerland in the Summer is stunning. The snowcapped mountains become lush and bright green inviting you for amazing outdoor hikes.

This European country has so many amazing places to visit in the summer.

But with so many places to explore, it can be daunting to narrow down your options.

That’s why we asked 15 different travel bloggers to share their top picks for the best summer destinations in Switzerland.

They’ve written about their own personal experiences and described why these places should definitely be on your must-visit list this summer.

These Switzerland summer destinations offer a whole range of outdoor activities, from hiking, to enjoying the lakes or swimming in some rivers.

So if you’re not sure which places you should check out while in Switzerland, you can trust the advice of the thousands of travelers who’ve been there and done that!

If you are looking for a European summer vacation, then be sure to have a look at this list of 15 must-see places in Switzerland in summer.

15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Summer

This travel guide listing the best places to visit in Switzerland for the summer will help you plan the most amazing summer vacation to this European destination due to the warm climate in Switzerland in August .

From the best places to visit in Switzerland during summer where you can enjoy and sample some of Switzerland’s finest food and wine to the most scenic city in Switzerland or the best things to do in Switzerland in the summer – this list covers all of them!

1. Montreux

Contributed by Bulgarian On The Go

The first destination on our list of the best places to visit in Switzerland in summer is Montreux.

Montreux is one of the most exciting places to visit in the summer.

The main reason is very simple – the Montreux Jazz Festival . This is the second-largest jazz festival in the world and it takes place annually in early July on the Lake Geneva shoreline.

It’s become so popular that around 200,000 people visit it every year.  

The summer in Montreux also allows for many water sports in Lake Geneva , such as paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and even water skiing.

Even if you’re not a fan of water sports, you can still take advantage of the beautiful Lake Geneva shore and enjoy a day at the beach . 

For all hiking lovers, there are quite a few hiking routes near Montreux which are worth exploring. Some ideas for hikes include the Gorge du Chauderon, Via Alpina, and Rochers de Naye. 

Do not forget to add the Chillon Castle (make your life easier and grab your entrance ticket online here ), the statue of Freddy Mercury , and the Queen’s Studio to your itinerary of things to do in Montreux .

The town is incredible to visit in any season, but it’s additionally special in summer due to the wide variety of activities provided during this time of the year. 

Popular Summer Montreaux Tours To Book

Here are some of our top picks for tours that will make your time in Montreux extra special!

1. Full-day tour to Riviera Col du Pillon & Glacier 3000

Experience the beauty of Les Diablerets in Switzerland!

Admire the majestic glacier, standing 3000 meters tall, and the Peak Walk – the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks.

Have fun sledding down a slope or enjoy a thrilling descent on Europe’s highest Alpine Coaster.

This is a must-do tour.

2. Relax on This 2-Hour Riviera Cruise

Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Swiss Riviera with a 2-hour paddle steamer boat cruise.

Admire striking views of Lake Geneva, the Swiss and French Alps, and Chillon Castle.

This unforgettable experience promises to leave you breathless and awestruck.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Montreux

Montreux is a charming little city that deserves more than a day trip (although it is totally doable as a day trip).

We suggest staying for 2-3 nights to make the most of the tours and truly enjoy its allure.

For your stay, we recommend you stay at the super popular Eurotel Montreux .

Conveniently located in the heart of the city (close to sights, restaurants, and a train station) and with a magnificent view of Lake Geneva and the Alps, Eurotel Montreux offers guests luxury 4-star accommodation.

With its remarkable location on the lake, Eurotel Montreux provides an ideal setting for those who wish to enjoy all that Montreux has to offer during their summer escape.

Contributed by Dymabroad

Is Zurich worth visiting in the summer? Absolutely!

Zurich is one of the best Swiss cities to visit in summer.

This is the largest city in the country and there are a lot of things that you can do in the city during summer. 

One of the best summer activities in Zurich is to check out the outdoor pools in the city .

There are several pools on or next to Lake Zurich. For example, a nice one is Flussbad Oberer Letten . 

Furthermore, you can go to Film am See, which is an open-air movie theater. 

Besides that, hiking is a great activity to do in Zurich during summer. There are beautiful hills with nature that surround the city.

Also, it can be great to go to the Uetliberg Lookout Tower when you do this. This is an observation tower from where you can get a panoramic view of the city and its surrounding. 

Also, the Zürcher Theater Spektakel takes place during summer.

This is a performing arts festival during which you can see all kinds of performances at various venues in the city. For example, there are live theater shows at this festival.

Zurich is definitely one of the best cities in Switzerland and one of the best places to go in Switzerland in summer.

Popular Summer Zurich Tours To Book

Discover Zurich’s hidden gems with these top-rated tours! Elevate your experience with our hand-picked selection of unique and unforgettable adventures.

• City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit – Enjoy a 5.5-hour city tour with a cruise. See the top sights and enjoy some yummy tastings at the Lindt Home of Chocolate. Book your tour here .
• Lindt Home of Chocolate Entry Ticket – Enjoy this skip-the-line ticket where you can enjoy unlimited chocolate tasting whilst learning all about chocolate. Grab your skip-the-line entrance ticket here .

Popular Day Trips From Zurich Worth Booking

Looking to add to your trip and explore some of the beautiful surrounding locations?

Here are our favorite day trips that are 100% worth booking.

• Day Trip to Jungfraujoch – Take a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps on the cogwheel railway. Enjoy a panorama from Europe’s highest railway station and explore a glacier in the Ice Palace. Book your spot here .
• Mount Titlis Day Tour – Discover the city of Lucerne before heading up Mount Titlis. Get panoramic views of the Swiss Alps from the Rotair cable car and visit the ice grotto. Book this tour here .
• Day Trip to Grindelwald & Interlaken – Includes a scenic train ride, free time in both towns, a cable car to Mt. First plus more! Book this tour here (for spectacular scenery!)
• Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls Half-Day Trip – Visit Europe’s largest waterfall, enjoy a guided stroll through the medieval village of Stein am Rhein and visit the Laufen Castle. See if there are spots free on this tour .

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Zurich

We suggest staying for a minimum of two days, but we encourage you to extend your stay if you’d like to explore the beautiful places mentioned earlier with a day trip.

Book your stay at H+ Hotel Zürich . It is a very popular hotel is located 2 min away from a tram stop.

If you’re looking for an enjoyable summer vacation in Zurich, then look no further than the 4-star H+ Hotel Zurich.

With comfortable rooms ideally designed for 2-3 people, a convenient location, and an amazing breakfast every morning, it’s easy to see why H+ is the perfect choice!

Contributed by Travels In Poland

Lucerne is one of the most beautiful and popular summer destinations in Switzerland. 

With the base of the Swiss Alps, Lake Lucerne offers amazing water and mountain-based activities for visitors. 

Lucerne, located in central Switzerland, is the largest city on the lake and is located at the northern tip of the lake is a great city to visit when visiting the lake. 

The city offers a range of amenities, a beautiful old wooden walking bridge , a small city feel, and numerous amenities.

The quaint villages and small cities sprinkled around the lake can be accessed by boats that make numerous daily crossings across the lake. 

One of the towns, Weggis, has high-end luxury hotels and spas, though this is also true for other cities on the lake. 

Viztnau is also a great destination as it offers a cogwheel train up to Rigi Mountain ( here is a great tour to book for Mt Rigi ), a popular destination for hiking . 

Campgrounds can be found in the cities along the lake, and visitors should not be surprised to see RVs lining up at each site.

The lake has hundreds of offerings of water-based activities , such as boating, swimming, fishing, canoeing, paddle boats, kayaking, and much more. 

There is access to public beaches in many areas, which allows visitors to spend the day at the lake however they wish. 

One of the best parts of Lake Lucerne is the hundreds of lakeside cafes, restaurants , hotels, spas, and much more. 

Travelers can simply pick and choose a beautiful city to visit along the lake, and they can easily find fine Swiss dining and beautiful views.

Besides visiting the lake, you can also head for the mountains.

Mount Pilatus is only a 15-minute bus ride away ( or book this super popular tour ) and the summit is easily reached via cable cars and a gondola.

The mountain has snow-capped peaks even during the summer season. On a clear day, you can enjoy panoramic views over the Alpine peaks and lakes.

Lucerne is called the heart of Switzerland, and in my opinion, might just be the best city to visit in Switzerland in summer, and is well worth a visit if you haven’t been.

Popular Summer Lucerne Tours To Book

Unearth the hidden gems of Lucerne with these carefully curated, top-rated tours!

• Relax on This 1-Hour Cruise on a Panoramic Yacht – Relax and enjoy the cruise to Meggenhorn Castle. Take in the views of villas, hills, and the deep blue lake. Book your spot here .
• Join a Combined Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour – Experience the highlights of Lucerne in just one day! Join a small group for a leisurely 5.5-hour walking and sightseeing boat tour. Grab a spot here .

Popular Day Trips From Lucerne Worth Booking

Explore stunning nearby locations! Here are our top day trips worth booking.

• Mount Pilatus Summer Day Trip – Experience Mt. Pilatus on a 5.5-hour journey! Take a gondola to Fräkmüntegg, then ascend to the peak by cableway. Descend on the steepest cogwheel to Alpnachstad & catch a boat for a scenic Lake Lucerne cruise. Book your spot on this tour (it is the most popular one).
• Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip – Such a spectacular day tour with all of these stops included: Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch, Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, cogwheel train down to Eigergletscher and V-Cableway Eiger Express. Don’t miss this one! Secure your spot on this tour here.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Lucerne

To make the most of your visit, we suggest staying for a minimum of two days . Lucerne is also the starting point for our 4 days in Switzerland itinerary .

You can spend one day exploring the city’s offerings and use the other day to embark on a day trip to one of the nearby mountains.

The 5-star Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is the perfect place to stay during a summer vacation in Lucerne.

This family-owned hotel in downtown Lucerne’s Old Town is perfect for couples and families, footsteps from the lake.

The elegantly decorated rooms come with modern amenities, and there’s an onsite spa area.

Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation you’re after, Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is ready to welcome you!

4. Gruyères

So if I asked you: what is Switzerland known for ? I bet some of you might think about chocolate and Swiss cheese. And this little town is about both, making it the best village in Switzerland .

Gruyères is a beautiful walled Medieval town packed with tons of charm. Whilst there are many things to do in Gruyères during the day, you’ll love walking along the cobblestone streets.

This quaint town has few shops and homes which makes the experience of visiting this town one of the must-see places to see in Switzerland in summer.

Gruyères is known for its cheese which is used in a number of gourmet dishes around the world.

As an avid traveler, I adore experiencing local delicacies. Recently, I tried the fondue. Although the dish tasted lovely, the richness of the cheese was overwhelming. My recommendation to fellow foodies would be to order fondue as a shared platter to relish its flavor without it dominating your meal.

Be sure to try the village specialty dish, known as Moitie-Moitie , which is a dish made with the popular Gruyères and another locally sourced cheese named Vacherin from the Fribourg area.

It is also known for the HR Giger Museum where you can see paintings and sculptures of many alien movies that have been made.

There is also the Medieval Gruyères Castle that you can explore and visit – the views from up on that level are spectacular!

For all those chocolate lovers, the Cailler Chocolate Factory is accessible with a short 5-minute walk from the Broc train stop and well worth a visit.

Enjoy a tour of the factory, relax at the café, and grab some delicious souvenirs from the chocolate shop on the way out.

We recommend you visit Gruyères on a day trip from Geneva . The town is small and I wouldn’t stay overnight in the area.

This Gruyères Day Trip from Geneva includes a panorama train ride, and chocolate and cheese tasting.

Contributed by The World In My Pocket

Lugano is a fantastic summer destination in Switzerland.

The Swiss city, located on the shores of the lake with the same name, has a certain Mediterranean feel that is best enjoyed during the summer months when the days are long and terraces open until late in the evening. 

There are plenty of things to do in Lugano in summer. The city has a wonderful lido , as well as a public beach where you can cool off from the heat, by swimming in the lake .

For nature enthusiasts, going up Mont Bre to hike and admire the panorama of the Swiss and Italian mountains is a must. You can book this tour to Mont Bre .

At the top of Mont Bre you can enjoy a drink with a view from the outdoor terrace of the restaurant there, which has a 360 panorama of the lakes and mountains below.

There are plenty of trails here as well that can take you all the way to Italy. 

In summer in Lugano, you can also enjoy a relaxing time by hiring a pedalo boat to explore more of the lake at your own pace. The boats are very cute, in the shape of old race cars. 

Even if you are  going to Lugano on a day trip , this city is so worth visiting in summer.

On a side note, did you know that you could easily reach Italy for a day trip from Italy?

• Lugano is the closest Swiss city to Milan and you can easily reach it on a train – which will only take 1 hour 15 minutes.
• If you want to visit Lugano on a day trip from Como , a train journey will take only 45 minutes.

You can easily explore all of Lugano’s highlights in one single day so we recommend visiting Lugano on a day trip from Zurich, Milan, or Lake Como.

Popular Summer Lugano Tours To Book

Explore Lugano’s hidden summer treasures with these highest-rated tours!

• Monte Brè Tour from Lugano by Funicular – Uncover the treasures of Monte Brè on this delightful full-day tour. The itinerary features a lake cruise as well as a funicular train ride to the peak. Book this tour here .
• Skip the Line Falconeria Locarno Ticket – Escape bustling Lugano with a visit to Locarno’s Falconry! Get up-close with birds of prey like hawks, owls, and eagles in an awe-inspiring traditional show! Grab your skip-the-line tickets here.

6. Interlaken

Contributed by Megan Starr

Interlaken is a fantastic summer destination with a plethora of activities to choose from. You’ll never be bored!

There are many great hiking trails to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Try the easier Rugen trail or the more challenging Harder Kulm trail (or take the funicular up to Harder Kulm ) for breathtaking views over the lake, mountains, and town.

Grindelwald , just a short train ride away, is a paradise for hikers with many gorgeous mountain trails.

For less strenuous options, stroll on the lakeside of beautiful Lake Brienz or Lake Thun . You can also jump in the water for a refreshing swim.

Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on these blue lakes are fun activities to take advantage of the beautiful weather.

If you are a thrill-seeker, Interlaken is one of the most stunning places to go paragliding ( here is the most popular paragliding tour ), an activity  offered both in winter  and summer!

And don’t miss out on visiting the enchanting Oberhofen Castle and strolling through its colorful gardens, with unhindered views of lovely Lake Thun.

Interlaken also hosts some great summer music festivals .

Check out the Greenfield rock festival, and the International Trucker and Country Music Festival, or head to nearby Spiez for the Seaside Festival, featuring different genres of music from both Swiss and international music stars.

For all these reasons and more Interlaken is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland !

Popular Summer Interlaken Tours To Book

Explore Interlaken’s summer wonders with these highly-rated tours!

• Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken – Soar above Swiss Alp peaks on a tandem paragliding flight with transportation from Interlaken. Marvel at views of Lake Thun and the snowy summits of Jungfrau! Book this popular experience here .
• Grab Your Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz . Enjoy a summer trip to witness St. Beatus Caves, Giessbach Falls & castles around the lake. The lake offers glorious views of the Bernese Oberland mountains.
• Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz – Kayak across River Lütschine exploring cliffs, Ringgenberg Castle & hidden beaches on this fun kayak tour! Book the Lake Brienz kayak tour .

Popular Day Trip From Interlaken Worth Booking

Looking to add to your trip and explore some of the beautiful surrounding locations? Here are our favorite day trips that are 100% worth booking.

• Day Trip to Jungfraujoch Mountain – Explore Jungfraujoch on a full-day guided tour from Interlaken. Take a cable car ride, witness sweeping views of Europe from the Sphinx Observation Terrace, and venture through the Ice Palace tunnels. Book this awesome day trip here.

We recommend staying 2-4 days to truly relish the town, lakes, and mountain hikes, with a day trip to Jungfaujoch .

The best hotel to book for your stay is The HEY Hotel .

The hotel is in the center of the town, has comfortable rooms and it’s only 400 meters from the Interlaken-West train station.

7. Lavertezzo

Contributed by Together In Switzerland

Switzerland in Summer can be truly magical, such as when visiting the mountains in combination with a lake or river for swimming.

A recommendation of one of the best places to visit in Summer is Lavertezzo, a dreamy little location in the Ticino Canton. 

Pack your sun cream, sunglasses, and your swimwear as you will want to dip into the stunning  crystal clear waters at Lavertezzo .

The river flows through the Verzasca Valley, a popular spot with locals and a few tourists who make the visit.

You can visit by car, but the easiest is with the local public bus that stops right in the area. 

As well as swimming in the waters at Lavertezzo, you can hike along the river’s edge either North or South through the forestry area and past the local houses.

During Summer it is very idyllic to relax and take your time in the area, so bring yourself a picnic full of delicious treats. 

It’s very rural in the area, but the Ponte dei Salti double arch stone bridge is a top highlight even for locals.

If you’re a daredevil, join the locals by jumping off this bridge directly into the deep but clear waters below. It’s about a 4-meter drop so it’s not for those scared of heights! 

From Lavertezzo, you can also consider adding to the day with a visit to either Ascona or Locarno.

Both are located at Lake Maggiore where the Verzasca valley and river end. 

8. Lausanne

Contributed by Passion for Hospitality

Lausanne , Switzerland’s fourth largest city is not only considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the country but has also enjoyed global recognition as the Olympic capital since 1994.

You can visit the Olympic Museum – grab your ticket online here .

This important title makes Lausanne one of the most reputable and significant locations in the sports world and the summer months are a perfect time of year to enjoy several sporting events .

From Cyclotour du Léman,  a popular cycling race that runs along the Swiss and French shores of Lake Geneva to the Ladies Open Lausanne , and of course Lausanne Triathlon , one of the most anticipated sports events not to be missed!

Apart from being a sporting capital, Lausanne is located in a widely popular wine-growing region which is a UNESCO World Heritage site as well.

Wine lovers are guaranteed to enjoy some of the most prized wine varieties paired with a highly relished local cuisine.

Lausanne boasts a myriad of wonderful experiences throughout the year and the summertime is a perfect season to enjoy its rich cultural program which combines exciting theatre performances with dance, music, and circus. 

We love visiting Lausanne on a day trip from Geneva or Montreux.

Popular Summer Lausanne Tours To Book

Explore Lausanne’s summer wonders with these highly-rated tours!

• 2-Hour Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards – Set sail on a serene cruise from Lausanne to Vevey and witness the beauty of the Lavaux vineyards. Marvel at the views along Lake Geneva. Grab your tickets here.

9. Maggia Valley

Contributed by G-Extreme Travel

Switzerland is known for its majestic mountains, stunning lakes, and pristine valleys.

While the country offers a wide range of outdoor activities year-round, nothing beats exploring Switzerland in the summertime.

One of the best places to experience the best of what Switzerland has to offer is Maggia Valley. It is located in the southwest corner of the country, close to the Italian border .

Maggia Valley is best known for its awe-inspiring waterfalls and lush green mountain valleys .

The best way to experience this paradise of nature is to go on a hike. You can explore hiking trails along the river or venture out onto one of the many peaks in the region .

You’ll be rewarded with views of the valley, beautiful streams, and waterfalls cascading down the mountains.

Switzerland is well known for its traditional dishes such as fondue, raclette, and rosti… but in this majesty valley, you’ll encounter the Grottini Ticinesi, a place made of traditional rustic stone huts, that serve delicious regional dishes like pizzoccheri, polenta, and other deliciousness!

Here you can sample some of the best local food while enjoying an amazing view of the mountains.

Besides spectacular views and delicious food, Maggia Valley has something for everyone in terms of activities.

Many of the trails are suitable for families , while others are more challenging and best suited for experienced hikers.

Maggia Valley is a true gem for visitors looking to experience Switzerland’s best in the summertime.

From its stunning waterfalls and lush green mountains to its delicious restaurants and wide range of activities, there is something for everyone in this valley.

So if you’re looking for a summer getaway that offers something special, then Maggia Valley should definitely be on your list.

Contributed by Life Part 2 And Beyond

The lovely town of Vevey lies on Lake Geneva’s north coast. It’s a beautiful place to visit during the summer months. 

You can take a swim in the lake, a boat trip, a pedalo, or a kayak, or simply relax by the water’s edge. And don’t forget to take that Instagram photo of Vevey’s iconic giant fork that sticks out of the water. 

Then explore the old town and lose yourself in its cobbled streets. If you’re there on a Tuesday or Saturday, be sure to visit the farmers market in the Grand Place. 

Visit Vevey in August and enjoy the entertainment from the Street Artists Festival . 

And did you know that Charlie Chaplin lived in Vevey for the last 20+ years of his life?

His old house is now a fascinating museum about Chaplin’s life , and there’s an interactive movie studio showing his movies too. A trip to Chaplin’s World is a must on any visit to Vevey. 

Just on the edge of town is a funicular that takes you up to Mont Pelerin .

From the mountain top, there are great views of Vevey, the lake and the mountains and some great summer hiking options . All trails are clearly marked. 

Vevey is best visited on a day trip. You can easily reach it from Geneva, Lausanne , or Montreux.

Contributed by Global Travel Escapades

Is Geneva worth visiting in the summer? One of the best places in Switzerland to visit during the summer is the gorgeous city of Geneva .

During the summer, the city experiences a pleasantly mild climate , with temperatures usually around 77-78F (25-26C) – ideal for soaking up the sun!

You can find plenty of activities to enjoy around Geneva during the summer. For example, you can cool off by swimming in the refreshing and clear waters of the Rhône River at Plage de Rhône.

Alternatively, if you prefer to lounge around and indulge in some of the region’s famous fondue, head on over to the Bains des Pâquis !

Here, you will find several areas of Lake Geneva that have been sectioned off, water structures that kids can play on, a restaurant, and even a few diving boards!

Lastly, you won’t want to miss seeing the iconic Jet d’eau Geneve . This giant water jet propels water a whooping 140m into the air!

Afterward, you can stroll along the harbor and admire the colorful flower clock in Jardin Anglais which is believed to be created out of over 6,500 flowers!

So, if you’ve dreamt of swimming in Switzerland’s clear blue waters, then consider a visit to Geneva! Here is a fun 5-day itinerary in Switzerland that starts in Geneva for you to follow.

Popular Summer Geneva Tours To Book

Discover Geneva’s summer gems with these top-rated tours!

• 3-hour Chocolate Tasting and Old Town Visit – Experience the allure of Geneva through a tour that combines the city’s sights with the indulgence of Swiss chocolate. Book this tour here .
• 50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise – Experience the beauty of Lake Geneva’s shores on a sightseeing cruise. Enjoy views of the Swiss Alps while learning about local landmarks with an audio guide. Book your tickets here .

Popular Day Trips From Geneva Worth Booking

• Guided Day Trip to Chamonix and Mont-Blanc (in France) – Take a day tour from Geneva to Chamonix, a mountain resort at Mont Blanc’s base. Experience breathtaking views atop Aiguille du Midi via cable car. Book this awesome tour here !
• Annecy Half-Day Trip (in France) – Discover Annecy, the Venice of the Alps! This charming city boasts vibrant markets, colorful pedestrian streets, and an enchanting old town area. Book this tour .
• Gruyères Tour With Train Ride, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting – If you ever wanted to visit Gruyeres, this is the best tour to do so. Book your tour here .

If you want to visit a country near Geneva , Switzerland, France is easy to reach, however, I would suggest adding on at least an additional day to your travel itinerary to fit it in.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Geneva

We suggest staying for a minimum of three days, so that you can fit in some of the day trips to explore surrounding places.

For one of the best places to stay, look no further than CitizenM Geneva .

CitizenM Geneva is the perfect place for any traveler looking to get a four-star experience in an amazing location.

Not only is it super innovative, but the incredible breakfast and modern amenities make it perfect for younger modern couples.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or for a base to explore surrounding areas in Switzerland, CitizenM Geneva has everything you need.

12. Zermatt

Contributed by Destination Checkoff

Zermatt is a year-round destination and has plenty of activities and sights to enjoy in the summer.

The biggest draw of Zermatt is the Matterhorn mountain at 4478 meters towering above the town ( grab your cable car tickets here ). 

During the summer, take the 30-minute cog railway to Gornergrat for some epic views of the Matterhorn mountain from the Gornergrat observation deck at 3089 meters.

Zermatt is a popular summer destination for hiking and mountain biking . There are several trails here for all levels of hikers and mountain bikers.

Hike the Five Lakes Walk Trail for some stunning scenic lakes and reflection of the Matterhorn in the lake waters. 

Zermatt town is a nice place to walk around and explore the shops and restaurants.

To learn about the history of Zermatt make sure to visit the Matterhorn Museum . The Findeln Chapel and the English Church are sacred places to admire in Zermatt.

Every summer in August, the Folklore Festival celebrates the Swiss culture with a huge parade that features a variety of traditional Swiss music, dance, and costumes. 

In Zermatt town, you will find charming boutique hotels with spas offering great relaxation after a day of hiking or summer adventures.

There are several restaurants offering delicious Swiss cuisine as well as international cuisine.  

Popular Summer Zermatt Tours To Book

Discover Zermatt’s summer gems with these top-rated tours!

• Pre-book your Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket here.
• Purchase your Skip-the-line Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train Ticket online before you go.
• Why not book something unique? This paragliding tandem flight in Zermatt has with spectacular views of the Matterhorn and its surrounding peaks.
• Never been skiing before? You can enjoy skiing even in the summer here. Book this private 3-hour private ski lesson so you can get out on the fun slopes as soon as possible.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Zermatt

To make the most of your time in Zermatt, I recommend spending at least 2-3 nights.

This will give you a couple of full days to explore the area, or more if you’re interested in experiencing some of the amazing skiing opportunities available.

We recommend you stay at Hotel Ambassador Zermatt .

This property has it all! Boasting an unbeatable location, the rooms are ultra cozy, featuring breathtaking views and there’s a pool and sauna for your indulgence.

Contributed by The Discovery Nut

Located along the shores of Lake Maggiore in Southern Switzerland, Ascona is a perfect summer destination if you are looking to enjoy the Mediterranean flair, enjoy boat rides , and take a couple of hikes in the nearby Valley Maggia . 

This cute town sits near the Italian border in the Canton of Ticino , the only Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland that’s located less than 2 hours away from Milan. 

Ascona boasts a colorful old town with a prominent clock tower, small stores, and gelato shops along the cobblestone streets.

If you spend a couple of days here, you might think that you have just stepped into Italy: the cobblestone streets of Old Town Ascona are lined with boutique shops and gelato stores where you can buy a tasty treat on a hot summer day. 

Ascona makes a perfect stop on your Switzerland itinerary and the best part is that it’s less discovered than some of the most popular destinations in the region like Lugano and Lake Como which receives the majority of visitors. 

Whether you want to go hiking, explore the medieval architecture of Old Town Ascona, or spend a few days enjoying the lake, you will have a great time here.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Ascona

We suggest staying for two to three days in order to be able to enjoy some of the summer activities.

The 4-star Charme Hotel al Torchio is the perfect choice for travelers looking for a luxurious stay in Ascona. Its prime location in the old city puts you just steps away from the lake, and within easy reach of all the historical sites.

The hotel was recently renovated to offer modern amenities such as comfortable beds and fantastic bathrooms with showers.

But that’s not all: Hotel al Torchio also offers a wonderful buffet breakfast every morning that is sure to put a smile on your face!

So if you’re looking for the best hotel in Ascona, look no further than Charme Hotel al Torchio. You won’t be disappointed!

Contributed by Paul from Paul Marina

Bern, the capital of Switzerland , is located at the heart of the country. The medieval city was founded more than 800 years ago at the bend of the Aare River. 

The turquoise blue waters, and cute houses with clay-colored roofs as a backdrop, enthrall most visitors with their unique beauty.

Architectural marvels and the  top attractions of Bern  can be explored on a stroll through the well-preserved old town ( here is a great walking tour that you can book ). 

A popular summer activity is swimming in the crystal clear Aare River . Locals and visitors from all over the world just tuck their belongings into a dry bag and jump into the refreshing waters.

Floating down the river is a relaxing unique experience, and you get to see the city from a different angle.

Families with kids will appreciate the free public pools in Bern to beat the hot summer heat. 

The open-air grocery market at the Bärenplatz has seasonal local fruits in the summer and the adjoining flea market is a treasure trove worth exploring.

For those looking to get active, the cycle trails along the Aare River are popular and a great way to explore the green areas of Bern. 

The funicular to the Gurten mountain peak takes one closer to various hiking trails . Exceptional views of the city and of the Bernese Oberland Alps can be expected here!

Popular Summer Bern Tours To Book

Here are some of our top picks for tours that will make your time in Bern special!

• Zytglogge – Tour through the Clock Tower – Tour the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, witness its inner workings & enjoy a charming puppet show. Don’t miss this memorable experience! Book this popular tour .
• 90-Minute Walking Tour Through the Old Town – Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Bern, and marvel at its fountains, towers, winding streets, & more with an expert guide. Experience 800 years of local history condensed into one unforgettable walk! Book your walking tour here .

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Bern

We suggest staying for a minimum of two days or three if you prefer exploring at a more relaxed pace.

Book your stay at the Swissôtel Kursaal Bern . This 4-star hotel exceeds all your expectations: close to the city center & attractions, and with stunning views of medieval Old Town & breathtaking Alps.

Swissôtel Kursaal Bern guarantees a luxurious experience with a 24-hour gym, casino, 2 restaurants, a bar, and a garden lounge.

This contemporary hotel has all you need for an amazing time.

Visiting Lavaux, the wine region of Switzerland , make this one of the best places to visit in Switzerland during the summer months for any wine lover.

The region of Lavaux is known for its terraced vineyards that stretch along the northern shores of Lake Geneva for over 30 km.

Lavaux is not just for wine lovers though. Lavaux has some of the best things to do in Switzerland in the summer.

You can explore the 800 hectares of magnificent terraced vineyards on foot or by bicycle .

And if wine is your thing, be sure to take part in a wine tasting in the many wine cellars and sample the best wines that Switzerland has to offer.

When you travel through the region of Lavaux, there are many charming pintes (mini-restaurants) that you can stop at to enjoy the local produce and food.

Exploring Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , should be at the top of anyone’s list when visiting Switzerland.

Our favorite tour departs from Geneva and lasts 8-10 hours. It takes you through the picturesque streets of Vevey, as well as giving you the opportunity to take a cruise on an old steamboat (if selected).

You will also visit the famous Montreux, with its beautiful walks, and notable castle of Chillon.

To top it off, enjoy a glass of wine in Lavaux itself – a truly unique experience!

How to Get Around Switzerland

Before we hop into our post of the best places to visit in summer in Switzerland, let’s just quickly cover how to get around Switzerland.

1. Public Transport

Public transport in Switzerland is an easy and economical way to explore the country.

The “ Swiss Travel Pass ” offered by SBB provides discounted and unlimited access to public transport by train, bus, and boat to explore over 41 cities, scale mountain peaks, and cruise on breathtaking lakes in Switzerland.

BEST WAY TO GET AROUND ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Save money and make life a lot easier with a Swiss Travel Pass. Allowing you to simply hop on trains, busses, and boats in most destinations.

Allowing travelers to go wherever they want without worrying about booking individual tickets or spending too much money on transportation costs. Grab your Swiss Travel Pass online with ease here .

2. Rent a Car

We are a family of 5 and we have young kids. When we visited Switzerland our youngest was only 1 year old, so we just found it so much easier to rent a car.

That way we can come and go when we wanted rather than waiting around for trains or buses to arrive.

Discover Cars is our go-to for car rental in Switzerland .

As a comparison site, it fetches the most competitive prices from all the leading car rental companies in the country.

It’s easy to use and makes car rentals a breeze!

BEST RENTAL COMPANY IN SWITZERLAND: DISCOVER CARS

I recommend  and use   Discover Cars . They search through all rental companies to find and offer only the best deals.

With transport cover, let’s talk about which summer destinations in Switzerland you should include on your list of places to visit.

When is Summer in Switzerland?

From June to mid-September, Switzerland is a perfect place for a warm getaway. With plenty of daylight hours, travelers will be able to enjoy the stunning views that this country has to offer.

The attractions are open for longer periods during this time and visitors can take advantage of the extended hours.

Plus, with the higher temperatures, sightseeing and outdoor activities become even more enjoyable.

Hiking trails are in full bloom and mountaintops offer refreshing breezes for those looking for a break from the summer heat.

You will also find a range of watersports activities, from kayaking and sailing to fishing, all of which can be experienced on the crystal-clear waters of the lakes in this country.

Switzerland in Summer Weather: What to Expect?

In the summer, beautiful days and pleasant temperatures await travelers looking to book a warm summer vacation in Switzerland.

You can expect mild temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) in June and September, and up to 25°C (77°F) in July and August.

The weather will vary depending on where you are. In the Alps, temperatures tend to be cooler than those experienced at lower altitudes.

Let’s have a quick look at the average temperatures you can expect in popular destinations in Switzerland.

What to Wear in Switzerland in Summer

Pack clothing that can be easily layered. Light, breathable fabrics such as loose-fitting shirts, shorts, and dresses are ideal for warmer days in Switzerland during the summer months.

For cooler evenings or high-altitude areas, pack a lightweight sweater or jacket to keep you warm and comfortable.

Bring sandals for easy slip-on shoes along with some comfortable hiking shoes for when you explore the great outdoors of Switzerland.

Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunglasses along with sunscreen and lip balm to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

FAQ About Switzerland Summer Destinations

Find below answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about summertime and weather in Switzerland as well as answers to the best Switzerland summer destinations.

1. Is it worth visiting Switzerland in Summer?

Yes. Europe is wonderful in the summer and with many Switzerland places to visit in summer, it is definitely worth visiting.

2. When is summer in Switzerland

Summer is from the months of mid-June to late September.

The temperature range during the summer months ranges between 65° – 82° F (18 to 28 °C) making it a very comfortable temperature to enjoy the many activities and places Switzerland has to offer.

3. What is Switzerland like in the summer?

Switzerland in the summer is really beautiful. The sun is out, hiking trails are open, and the many lakes around Switzerland are warm enough for swimming.

The summer weather is great for exploring the lush green hills and mountainsides by foot or bicycle.

4. Is Switzerland crowded in summer?

As you can imagine, summer in Switzerland will be one of the busiest times next to the Swiss ski season so be prepared for crowds if you travel during the high season of June through to the end of August.

If you still want great weather but want to avoid the crowds, visit during the months of April – May or September – October.

5. Should you visit Geneva or Zurich in Summer?

Geneva and Zurich are two of the best cities to visit in Switzerland in summer. Both cities have warm climates during the summer months with hot and sunny weather.

Geneva tends to be drier than Zurich, although it is a little more humid, so if you want to try and avoid summer showers, Geneva may be best.

Final Thoughts on Where to Visit in Switzerland in Summer

Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and it is a true dream to visit if you love nature, outdoor activities, and gorgeous towns and villages.

We hope that this list of where to go in Switzerland in summer is a great guide to help you put together your list of Switzerland summer destinations.

If you want more ideas for the best places in Switzerland in summer be sure to read our Switzerland Travel Blog Posts for more inspiration.

Tip: Check out our blog posts on Switzerland:

• Best times to visit Switzerland
• Why is Switzerland so beautiful?
• 7-day Switzerland itinerary
• Reasons to visit Switzerland
• Travel Insurance Switzerland
• Switzerland in June

Jolene Ejmont

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Discover the Top 10 Safest Countries for Family Travel in 2024!

13 Apr, 2024

Kumar Utkarsh

UAE offers an enchanting blend of modern attractions and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation filled with adventure and relaxation.

Switzerland: renowned for its safety, cleanliness, and stunning landscapes, switzerland offers a range of family-friendly activities from hiking to exploring charming towns., denmark: consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world, denmark boasts a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and family-oriented attractions, singapore: with low crime rates and efficient public services, singapore is a safe destination offering cultural experiences, theme parks, and delicious cuisine., australia: australia offers family-friendly activities such as snorkeling, visiting wildlife parks, and exploring iconic landmarks like the great barrier reef., japan: known for its low crime rates, efficient public transportation, and rich culture, japan offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions suitable for families., iceland: despite its remote location, iceland is one of the safest countries globally, offering unique experiences like exploring glaciers, hot springs, and the northern lights., new zealand: with its friendly locals and stunning landscapes, new zealand is a safe destination for families to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and beach days., norway: known for its natural beauty, norway provides safe outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing, and exploring fjords, along with family-friendly cities like oslo and bergen., canada: with its vast wilderness and multicultural cities, canada is a safe and welcoming destination for families.

Thanks For Reading!

Next: Exploring Gulmarg: 7 Best Places To Visit In The Beautiful Valley of Kashmir

12 Best Places To Visit In Germany With Family In 2024!

T hinking about visiting Germany with your kids? Looking for the best places to visit in Germany with family in 2024? You’re in the right place!

Germany is a fabulous destination for families. It’s renowned for its rich history, gorgeous landscapes and interesting culture. Its fairy-tale old towns and castles add some magic and its big cities add some vibrancy. All up, Germany is a captivating blend of historical charm and modern appeal.

From landmarks such as the Berlin Wall and Neuschwanstein Castle to the beautiful landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest to the great food and ease of getting around, there’s so much to love about traveling in Germany.

Germany isn’t just for adults though. There are many fantastic places to visit in Germany with kids. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best choices to add to your itinerary.

Why Is A Family Vacation In Germany A Great Idea?

Where to stay in berlin for families, where to stay in nuremberg for families, where to stay in rothenburg for families, where to stay in the rhine valley for families, where to stay in trier for families, where to stay in heidelberg for families, where to stay in europa park for families, where to stay in the black forest for families, where to stay near autostadt for families, where to stay in bremen for families, where to stay in lübeck for families, christmas markets.

Germany is an incredible destination for families for the reasons I mentioned above as well as many others. The fairy-tale castles are sure to capture your kids’ imagination.

A trip to the Berlin Wall can be a great accessible educational opportunity. A walk on cobblestoned streets through a colorful old town will take your kids right back to fairy-tale classics. Families are welcome almost everywhere.

There are, of course, many attractions in Germany for kids. From huge theme parks to children’s museums and fun markets, trains and more, there is a lot to love about traveling to Germany with kids.

The efficient train system and great road network also make it easy to get around and to explore as much of Germany as you like. There’s a great range of accommodation, including many hotels that specifically created for families.

The food can also be quite kid-friendly. It’s easy to enjoy a pretzel or a bratwurst (sausage) almost anywhere which is likely to appeal to even fussy eaters.

All up, it’s a very easy place for a family vacation that your kids won’t forget.

Best Places To Visit In Germany With Family

Here are my top 12 picks of the best places to visit in Germany with kids…

The capital of Germany, Berlin offers a fantastic blend of historical and family-friendly attractions. The Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall are must visits for all and a great learning opportunity for kids.

The DDR Museum is a hands-on way for your family to learn about life in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). Berlin is a city with a super interesting past, and there’s no better way for your kids to learn and understand it than in the city itself.

For more family focused attractions in Berlin , the Berlin Zoo is a great place to head with a wide variety of animals. The interactive Legoland Discovery Center is also a favorite among children. Head to the German Spy Museum for lots of fun spy activities, like dressing up and debugging a room.

To let off some steam, make sure you head to Tiergarten. This huge park has plenty of space to roam with historical monuments, six playgrounds and row boats. It’s also home to the zoo. 

I recommend The Circus Apartments in a handy spot in Berlin. They have a variety of apartment options including two and three bedroom, fully self-contained apartments for up to six people.

Click here for more details and the latest prices.

Nuremberg is our pick of the best city to visit in Germany with family. It’s an easy city to explore with a great range of attractions that are easily accessible for families.

The Old Town is the natural place to start with super colorful houses and the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle) keeping watch from above. You can also explore the city from underground and see how Nuremberg’s art collections were kept safe during World War II. You can find the Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum) in the Old Town with toys from various time periods.

Just outside the Old Town, the Deutsche Bahn Museum is a must visit. It centers on the history of the German Railways with old carriages, videos and more. What kids will really love is the model railway, the chance to take a light railway ride and the interactive play area specifically for kids.

If you have younger kids (10 and under), don’t miss a day out at the Playmobil FunPark. This amusement park with Playmobil theming was one of my 6 and 10 year olds’ favorite places in Germany. There are great playgrounds, pedal boats, water play area, castle area, go karts and more. It’s located just outside of Nuremberg.

You can read more about things to do in Nuremberg here.

We stayed at the Novotel Nuernberg Centre Ville which was perfect for our family. It’s on the edge of the Old Town by the main station and has family rooms. There’s also a great indoor pool, children’s playroom, restaurants and more.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Home to maybe the most photographed old town in Germany, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber (or just Rothenburg) is a picturesque medieval gem, perfect for exploring with kids.

It’s only a small town, but this is part of its charm. Its colorful buildings, cobblestoned streets and well-preserved town walls will help you feel like you’ve gone back in time. 

The town walls are the perfect place to start exploring. They offer many pretty views, and there are information boards along the way to learn more. It’s a great way for kids to let off some steam while discovering Rothenburg. There are also some playgrounds around the walls.

Another place families will enjoy is the Christmas Museum. It’s located in the Käthe Wohlfahrt Weihnachtsdorf which is a popular chain of Christmas stores that open year round. It’s about the history of Christmas customs with many decorations on display.

A popular place to visit in Rothenburg is the Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum (Medieval Crime Museum). It’s located in a building which is 600 years old and covers over 1,000 years of the legal history of Germany and Europe. It focuses on interrogation (torture), crime and punishment.

This museum is for families with teenagers who have an interest – and it is a fascinating museum. I visited without my 6 year old, which was the right choice.

We stayed at the Pension das Lädle which is in the heart of Rothenburg’s Old Town. It has three and four person rooms with separate sleeping areas for kids.

Rhine Valley

The Rhine Valley may be best known for its wines but it’s also a fabulous place to travel to Germany with children. With gorgeous towns, stunning wineries and fairy-tale castles, the whole family will love a trip here.

Start your adventure with a relaxing cruise down the Rhine trying to spot the castles that dot it before driving around and visiting your favorites. Rheinstein Castle is a picturesque place to start or visit Schönburg Castle with its amazing views and slingshot simulator your kids will enjoy.

Of course, you can’t miss out on stopping in the beautiful towns. Bacharach may be the cutest with a town wall to explore, a pretty Old Town and wines to taste. Boppard is another town worth heading to with half-timbered houses, old wine taverns and a Roman fort.

There’s also a fun chairlift in Boppard with great views and nice walks at the top. You can take an easy stroll to Vierseenblick (Four Lakes View). This cool viewpoint is at a horseshoe bend in the Rhine River and gives the illusion that there are four lakes instead of one river.

We stayed at the Rhine Pearl Hideaways which is a building of apartments in the middle of Oberwesel, a picturesque town in the middle of the Rhine Valley. The apartments are modern and perfect for families.

Trier is not just the oldest city in Germany and home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites but is also a great destination in Germany for children.

Located near the border of Luxembourg and not far from the Rhine Valley, Trier has had human settlement for over 6,000 years. It was an important place in Roman times and you can still see ruins from this time today. These ruins are fun to explore with kids and are great for capturing the imagination.

Start your adventure at Porta Nigra, a second century Roman city gate. It’s the best way to enter the Old Town and is massive. In the Old Town there are pretty streets, Hauptmarkt (the main square), many churches, an antique toy museum and more. Trier Cathedral still has parts from Roman times.

As you head further south, there are more Roman ruins from thermal baths to an amphitheatre. It is worth checking them all out.

For a more hands-on experience, you can also visit Freilichtmuseum Roscheiderhof, an open air museum, about eight kilometers from Trier.

We stayed at Ibis Styles Trier which is right in the center of everything. There are family room options.

Beautiful Heidelberg is definitely one of the places to visit in Germany with children. With its great setting by the Neckar River and surrounded by hills, there are plenty of places for kids to explore and roam.

Heidelberg’s famous ruined castle is a great place to start. You can either walk up here or get a fun cogwheel train up. In addition to exploring the castle area, you can visit the Deutsches Apotheken-Museum (German Pharmacy Museum) inside the castle which covers the history of medical science and pharmacies in Germany. It’s interesting even for young kids with old reconstructed pharmacies, labs and interactive games.

After the castle, consider taking the cogwheel train further up the hill to visit the Walderlebnispfad (Forest Adventure Trail). This is an easy 2 kilometer trail with many activities to do along the way aimed at children. There is also a small, older-style amusement park up there.

Our favorite thing to do in Heidelberg was to head up the opposite hill to explore Heiligenberg, where settlement first started in this area. There are great paths through the forest where you can feel like you are discovering Celtic and Roman ruins, old monasteries and Thingstätte, an amphitheater completed in 1935 by the Nazis to spread propaganda.

We stayed at the Heidelberg Apheartments in the heart of Heidelberg. They offer fully self-contained apartments for up to eight people.

Find more great hotels in Heidelberg here.

Europa-Park – Rust

When you travel to Germany with kids, this theme park is likely to be their favorite place in the country.

Considered one of the best in Europe, Europa Park is massive with 18 themed areas, over 100 attractions, 13 roller coasters, many live shows and so much more. Think Disneyland but with European theming. Most of the themed areas are based on different countries in Europe. There is also a separate water park here called Rulantica.

Even visiting in peak August, we had so much fun here. The kids absolutely loved the more family-friendly roller coasters, getting wet on the splash rides and watching horse shows. The  park’s VirtualLine feature in the app helped to ensure we never lined up for too long and had a great time.

There are many places to eat, stay and more and this is a great way to end a family vacation in Germany. It’s located near the French border between Heidelberg and the Black Forest.

One of the many great things about Europa Park is that there are six hotels adjacent to the park and in the immediate area each with their own theming. If you stay at any of the hotels, you can access the many facilities at all of them and you also get early access to the park.

We stayed at Hotel Castillo Alcazar which was a lot of fun. It has its own entrance directly into the theme park and is themed as a Medieval knight’s castle. There are many family room options, even for larger families.

Black Forest

The Black Forest is definitely a fantastic region to head to when visiting Germany with kids. It’s incredibly scenic with beautiful villages and plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

We loved hiking round lakes, swimming outdoors, exploring the towns and visiting picturesque castles like Hohenzollern Castle. You can visit the home of cuckoo clocks in Triberg or peddle your way around Titisee lake on a boat. You can bathe in the thermal pools at Baden-Baden or explore the picturesque Old Town in Freiburg .

Kids will love Badeparadies Schwarzwald Titisee, a big indoor waterpark with an amazing sauna complex for adults. And, of course, no visit is complete without a slice of the famous black forest cake (although technically it doesn’t come from here).

There are so many awesome experiences in the Black Forest for families that you could spend your whole trip in this region alone.

We stayed at the Feldberger Hof Family Hotel in the Black Forest. It’s an all inclusive resort specifically for families and it’s amazing. There are so many family friendly facilities (including an outdoor ropes course, horse riding and indoor pool area with water slides), activities, rooms and great food.

The hotel also includes an attractions pass for the region which gives free or discounted entry to 60 attractions plus public transport.

Autostadt Wolfsburg

Autostadt Wolfsburg is an automobile museum and theme park located in Wolfsburg, Germany. It tells the story of the history and development of automobiles, but also has attractions and activities related to automotive culture. This isn’t a big, dry museum.

Spread over 28 hectares, there are multiple museums, massive car towers, playgrounds, giant slides and various car pavilions. One of the coolest parts is definitely the round, glass, 60 meter towers that store Volkswagen cars ready to be delivered to new homes. It’s fully automated with cars being placed and removed from the tower with ease. You can take a ride up the towers yourself for an up close look.

This place is a whole world with plenty of cars and history to explore. Adults can test drive real vehicles while kids can learn to drive in some very cool miniature ones. There are many interactive exhibits. It’s easy to enjoy a half day here. 

For families, there are also some playgrounds including some huge slides up to 18.5 meters high. There’s a cool shop and plenty of eating options too.

For the full Autostadt experience, it is possible to stay on-site. The Ritz-Carlton Wolfsburg Autostadt hotel is located here.

There’s a pool, sauna, two restaurants (Including a three Michelin star option) and a lounge. Rooms cater for up to four people.

If you’re heading to northern Germany, Bremen is a great place to stop for families. At the end of the Fairy Tale Route, Bremen celebrates the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale, the Bremen Town Musicians with a statue of the donkey, dog, cat and rooster from the tale in the main square.

There are also images and statues around town of these creatures and it’s fun to have the kids look out for them. If you aren’t familiar with this story, I recommend that you watch it on YouTube before you go.

The Old Town is fun to explore for all ages with a great main square, the stunning Bremen Cathedral and the laneways of Schnoor and Böttcherstraße. It’s easy to explore by foot. 

The Universum Science Centre is a standout attraction if you visit Germany with kids. It has interactive and educational exhibits which kids will enjoy. 

For a thought-provoking historical site, visit the Bunker Valentin. It’s an absolutely massive World War II submarine factory that has been left standing to illustrate the futility of war.

We stayed at the Best Western Bremen City . It has some great apartment style rooms for families within walking distance of the main attractions.

Also in northern Germany, Lübeck is a charming city home to a picturesque, UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. It is a good mix of historical and kid-friendly attractions. 

The best place to start is with a wander through the well-restored Old Town. Encircled by the Trave River, there are many great views, churches, museums and more. A feature of this Old Town are the hidden courtyards. These are courtyards from the Middle Ages accessed via small walkways from the street. We made it a family game to try to spot as many as possible.

The world-class European Hansemuseum is worth visiting and an easy way to learn more about the Hanseatic League which played a big part in Lübeck’s past.

Lübeck is famous for its marzipan so a sugary treat at Cafe Niederegger is the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing. When you have finished exploring Lübeck, consider a trip to Travemünde on the Baltic Sea. Just 20 minutes from Lübeck, it’s the perfect place to have some beach time. It also has a pretty Old Town.

We stayed at Hotel Die Reederin . It’s a gorgeous boutique hotel in Lübeck’s Old Town. It offers a spacious family room option.

My final place to visit in Germany with kids is a special one if you are visiting in late November or December. I recommend you visit as many Christmas markets as you can if you visit at this time of year.

German Christmas Markets are incredibly magical and special. From the traditional food and drinks to the Christmas music and lights, they set the scene for a perfect Christmas.

Many Christmas markets and destinations in Germany have special events perfect for families at this time of year. For example, Quedlinburg has the “largest Advent calendar in Germany”. At 4:30pm every day in the lead up to Christmas, families meet up and search together for one of 24 houses with special Christmas decorations that are open to the public. Inside, there are surprises.

Nuremberg Christmas Market has a special section for kids with old-fashioned rides, crafts and activities. For novelty, head to Cologne for a floating Christmas market on a ship. Munich has a Kinderland section at one of its Christmas markets with special activities and a Christmas Post Office. In Hamburg, you can watch Santa fly overhead in his sleigh!

Christmas is a truly special time in Germany for the whole family so make sure you include plenty of Christmas markets in your itinerary at this time.

Final Thoughts

Germany is a fantastic place to visit for families. There is so much to enjoy here from the great outdoors to the interesting history that surrounds you.

There are plenty of kid-focused attractions, but it’s also easy to visit interesting historical and cultural attractions in a way that is interesting for kids too.

I hope this list helps you have one of your best family vacations in Germany.

Bio: Sharon Gourlay is a full-time blogger and mum of three who loves sharing her love of travel with kids with others, especially when it comes to sharing one of her favorite destinations, Germany! You can find more information to plan your ultimate adventure in Germany at Germany Footsteps .