The Best Switzerland Family Vacation Ideas & Itinerary

When planning our trip to Oktoberfest in Munich, I knew I wanted to add another destination to our itinerary and I was somehow led to Switzerland. Honestly, I don’t know what drew me towards making it a Switzerland trip. I hadn’t researched it much, didn’t see a ton about it on social media, and just kind of looked at border countries and went for it.

And now I am here to tell you why a Switzerland family vacation is a MUST do and should be added to your bucket list as soon as possible! 

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We had an amazing time and fell in love with everything about Switzerland practically as soon as we entered the country. As a family traveling with two small children, ages 10 months and 5 years old, I think it was one of the easiest places to navigate and explore with kids. We can’t wait to return and explore more during another Switzerland family vacation.

Switzerland’s postcard-perfect scenery, safe cities, and abundance of family-friendly activities make it an ideal destination for traveling with kids. From exploring fairy-tale villages to riding scenic mountain trains, families are spoiled with all the options within this beautiful country. Here’s a complete guide to making the most of your Swiss adventure, including where to stay, how to get around, and top activities for children of all ages.

Helpful Tips Before Planning Your Switzerland Family Vacation

What You May Not Know About Switzerland 

Switzerland’s history is marked by its unique position at the crossroads of Europe, leading to a blend of German, French, Italian, and Roman influences. Officially founded in 1291 with the signing of the Federal Charter, Switzerland developed a tradition of neutrality, which has allowed it to avoid major conflicts and protect its cultural treasures. Today, Switzerland’s four official languages and varied regions reflect this multicultural heritage, making it a fascinating and educational destination for families.

We learned so much during our guided tours within Switzerland and I’ll forever be thankful for those exciting trips and all the information shared. A few things we learned:

• Swiss farmers move their cows to other pastures as a part of traditional farming practices. 
• Switzerland is home to the Gotthard Tunnel, the world’s longest tunnel through the Swiss Alps. 
• The highest railroad station in Europe is in the Jungfraujoch region. 
• There are over 7,000 beautiful lakes in the country of Switzerland. 
• A child can lose their Swiss citizenship at the age of 25 if they were born abroad if they do not declare in writing that they want to remain a Swiss citizen.
• The currency is a Swiss franc, though many places also show prices in euros.  
• Switzerland borders five countries: France, Germany, Austria, Lichtenstein and Italy.

How Much Time To Spend in Switzerland

To fully appreciate the country’s diversity, plan to spend at least seven days in Switzerland. This allows enough time to explore multiple regions, from the serene lakes to the awe-inspiring Alps, without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time, consider focusing on one or two major areas, like Lucerne and the Jungfrau region or Lucerne and Zurich, for a condensed but immersive experience. 

I recommend reading about each of the regions below before determining which area(s) will be the best fit for your whole family and the goals of your overall vacation. Switzerland has so much to offer that you practically can’t go wrong when planning a vacation to this beautiful country. 

Popular Regions and Cities in Switzerland for Family Vacations

Switzerland’s regions each offer unique experiences, from bustling cities to peaceful alpine villages, and are well-suited for family exploration. Below is an in-depth guide to Switzerland’s most popular regions and cities, highlighting family-friendly attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural landmarks.

Zurich and Eastern Switzerland

• Zurich: Switzerland’s largest city is known for its blend of modern and medieval, with high-end shopping, world-class museums, and scenic lake views. Families can enjoy the Zurich Zoo, which includes the Masoala Rainforest Hall, or take a boat ride on Lake Zurich. The Kunsthaus Zurich (Art Museum) is a great spot for art-loving families, while the Old Town’s cobbled streets and historic buildings offer charm and photo opportunities.
• Rhine Falls: Located near the town of Schaffhausen, Rhine Falls is Europe’s largest waterfall. Families can take boat trips to get close to the falls, walk along scenic paths, and enjoy viewpoints perfect for photo-taking.
• Appenzell: Known for its picturesque alpine villages, rolling hills, and family-friendly hiking trails, Appenzell is a gem for outdoor adventures. The Ebenalp Cable Car provides easy access to the mountains, where families can hike to the famous Wildkirchli caves and see the iconic Aescher Cliff Restaurant.

Bernese Oberland and the Jungfrau Region

• Interlaken: A popular gateway to the Jungfrau Region, Interlaken is nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, offering water sports, cruises, and lakeside walking paths. Families can take day trips to nearby mountain villages like Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Wengen.
• Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: A highlight for many families, the Jungfraujoch is accessible by the Jungfrau Railway, which travels through tunnels and opens to breathtaking landscapes and glacier views. Kids love the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and outdoor snow sports.

• Grindelwald: Known as one of Switzerland’s most beautiful villages, Grindelwald offers endless outdoor fun, from skiing in winter to hiking and zip-lining in summer. The First Cliff Walk, a scenic walkway along the cliffs, provides thrilling views of the valley.
• Thun and Lake Thun: The town of Thun has a beautiful medieval castle and a lovely old town that’s ideal for family strolls. Lake Thun offers boat tours, swimming, and scenic spots for picnics.

Lucerne and Central Switzerland

• Lucerne: Famous for its lakeside setting and alpine views, Lucerne is a family favorite. Visit the Chapel Bridge, Water Tower, and Swiss Museum of Transport, which has interactive exhibits on planes, trains, and automobiles. A trip up Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi is a must, with both offering cable car rides, hiking, and panoramic views.
• Engelberg: Home to Mount Titlis, Engelberg is a wonderful day trip from Lucerne. Families can take a revolving cable car to the top of Titlis, where they’ll find snow activities year-round and a thrilling suspension bridge.
• Lake Lucerne: Families can enjoy boat cruises on Lake Lucerne, which is surrounded by charming villages, lush hills, and stunning mountains. Stops at lakeside towns like Weggis and Vitznau add even more charm to the journey.

Geneva and the Lake Geneva Region

• Geneva: Known for its humanitarian heritage and cultural offerings, Geneva is a sophisticated city with a family-friendly side. Highlights include the Jet d’Eau fountain, the United Nations headquarters, and Parc de la Grange, a beautiful lakeside park. The Museum of Natural History and the Patek Philippe Museum are also popular with kids.
• Lausanne: A vibrant university town, Lausanne is home to the Olympic Museum, where kids can learn about the history of the games through interactive displays. Families can stroll along Lake Geneva’s shores or explore the medieval Old Town and its impressive Gothic cathedral.
• Montreux: Montreux is known for its annual jazz festival and stunning location on Lake Geneva. Families can visit Chillon Castle, a fairy-tale fortress on the lake, and take scenic lake cruises. The Rochers-de-Naye Railway offers panoramic views and takes you up to see a marmot zoo.
• Lavaux Vineyards: This UNESCO World Heritage site along Lake Geneva is great place for scenic family walks. Many of the vineyards have easy walking trails, and the view of the terraced vineyards cascading down to the lake is unforgettable.

Ticino

• Lugano: Known for its Italian vibe, Lugano offers a Mediterranean atmosphere, lakeside promenades, and Italian-inspired cuisine. Families can take boat rides on Lake Lugano, visit the charming Parco Ciani, or ride the funicular up Monte Brè for stunning views of the lake and mountains.
• Bellinzona: This town is famous for its three medieval castles—Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro—which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Kids will enjoy exploring the towers, battlements, and drawbridges of these well-preserved castles.
• Locarno: Located on Lake Maggiore, Locarno is a charming lakeside town that’s perfect for relaxing days for the entire family. Families can take a scenic boat ride or cable car up to Cardada, a mountain with easy hiking trails and an observation deck.

Valais Region (Zermatt and the Matterhorn)

• Zermatt: This car-free mountain village is famous for the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps. Families can take the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the Matterhorn, explore Glacier Paradise, and enjoy outdoor sports from skiing to hiking. The Matterhorn Museum offers an intriguing look into mountaineering history.
• Saas-Fee: Known as the “Pearl of the Alps,” Saas-Fee is another car-free resort town with glacier access, family-friendly skiing, and scenic hiking trails. The Feeblitz toboggan run is a fun experience for kids, offering thrilling views of the valley.
• Leukerbad: Leukerbad is Europe’s largest thermal spa resort, with hot spring pools that are great for families looking to relax. After a day in the mountains, parents and kids can unwind in the warm waters, which offer indoor and outdoor pools with mountain views.

Graubünden and Engadine Valley

• St. Moritz: Known for its luxury ski resorts and stunning alpine scenery, St. Moritz is also a family-friendly destination with winter sports, hiking trails, and Lake St. Moritz for summer paddleboarding. Families can also take the Bernina Express train, a UNESCO World Heritage route that offers incredible views of the Engadine Valley.
• Davos: A hub for outdoor sports, Davos offers skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing in winter and hiking and mountain biking in summer. The Davos Adventure Park has rope courses and zip line trails, making it a great choice for active families.
• Swiss National Park: Located in the Engadine Valley, the Swiss National Park is Switzerland’s only national park and is ideal for nature-loving families. It has miles and miles of trails, where families can spot wildlife like ibex, marmots, and deer in their natural habitat.

Jura and Three Lakes Region

• Neuchâtel: This charming lakeside town is known for its medieval architecture and Swiss watchmaking heritage. Families can explore the Old Town, visit the Laténium Archaeology Museum, and take boat trips on Lake Neuchâtel.
• Biel/Bienne: The city of Biel/Bienne is Switzerland’s bilingual capital, where French and German coexist. Known as the heart of Switzerland’s watchmaking industry, Biel has a museum dedicated to the art of Swiss watchmaking. Lake Biel offers boat rides, water sports, and bike trails.
• La Chaux-de-Fonds: Known for its UNESCO-listed watchmaking heritage, this town is home to the International Watchmaking Museum, where families can learn about the artistry and mechanics behind Swiss timepieces.

Each region in Switzerland brings something unique to a family vacation, from the bustling cities of Zurich and Geneva to the quiet mountain towns of Zermatt and Saas-Fee. With these highlights, you’ll be able to plan a well-rounded, memorable trip that showcases the very best Switzerland has to offer for families.

Where To Stay

Switzerland offers a variety of accommodations to suit every family’s travel style and budget, from luxury hotels to cozy mountain lodges and charming farm stays. I recommend mixing it up and staying in at least 2-3 accommodation types to get the most out of your Switzerland family vacation experience. Here’s an in-depth look at the choice of accommodation options available for families visiting Switzerland, highlighting the unique experiences each can provide.

Hotels and Resorts

Switzerland’s hotels and resorts cater to a range of tastes, from luxurious five-star hotels in cities to alpine resorts with ski-in/ski-out access.

• Luxury Hotels: Cities like Zurich, Geneva, and St Moritz are famous for high-end hotels, many of which offer family suites, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services. Many luxury hotels have amenities like spas, indoor pools, and gourmet dining options, creating a resort-like atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
  • I recommend Hotel Bristol in Geneva. It is a centrally located hotel with family suites, is near Lake Geneva, and is a short walk from parks and museums. 
• Mountain Resorts: Resorts in areas like the Jungfrau Region, Zermatt, and Engelberg offer breathtaking mountain views, convenient access to skiing and hiking, and kid-friendly amenities. Some resorts even offer family packages that include lift passes, equipment rentals, and guided activities.
• Boutique Hotels: Smaller boutique hotels provide a more intimate and unique experience, often with distinctive decor and a personalized touch. These hotels are often located in historic buildings and are popular in cities like Lucerne (Hotel des Balances), Bern, and Lausanne.

Chalets and Mountain Lodges

Staying in a traditional Swiss chalet or mountain lodge allows families to experience Switzerland’s alpine culture up close. Chalets can range from cozy rustic cabins to luxurious lodges with full amenities.

• Private Chalets: Renting a private chalet gives families a true alpine experience, with views of the mountains, fireplaces, and often private outdoor spaces. Many chalets are located in resort areas like Zermatt, Verbier, and Grindelwald, where they provide easy access to outdoor activities. (photo 1, photo 2, photo 3)
• Lodges and Inns: Mountain lodges and inns are a more affordable alternative to private chalets and often feature shared amenities like dining halls and communal lounges. These are great for meeting other travelers and enjoying a homey, communal environment, often with meals included.
  • The Hotel Eiger in Müren in the Jungfrau region is top-notch for an unforgettable stay in the mountains; this car-free village offers peace, fresh air, and incredible views. The Hotel Eiger provides family suites and direct access to hiking trails, making it ideal for families looking to explore the great outdoors.
• Ski-in/Ski-out Options: For families visiting in the winter, some chalets and lodges offer direct access to ski slopes, making it convenient for everyone to hit the trails without much hassle.

Apartments and Vacation Rentals

For families who prefer more space and independence, renting an apartment or vacation home can be an excellent choice.

• City Apartments: In larger cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne, there are numerous rental apartments available for short-term stays. These often come with fully-equipped kitchens, making it easier to prepare family meals and snacks.
• Alpine Cabins and Vacation Homes: Outside of cities, vacation homes and cabins offer more space and privacy than traditional hotel rooms. Rentals in scenic spots like Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, and the Engadine Valley provide beautiful settings with the comforts of home.
• Extended Stays: Apartments and vacation rentals are ideal for families planning longer stays. Weekly and monthly rentals are often available at discounted rates, providing cost savings and the comfort of a “home base.”

Farm Stays

For a unique family experience, consider staying on a Swiss farm. Farm stays give families the chance to experience rural life, learn about local farming practices, and even interact with animals.

• Hands-On Experiences: Many farm stays allow kids to participate in daily farm activities, like feeding animals, collecting eggs, and learning about sustainable farming. This interactive experience is particularly popular in regions like Appenzell, Graubünden, and the Emmental Valley.
• Rustic Comfort: Farm accommodations often include simple, cozy rooms with scenic views. Some farms offer self-catering apartments, while others provide breakfast or half-board options with fresh, homemade meals.
• Educational Value: Staying on a farm offers a unique cultural experience, giving kids a glimpse into Swiss agricultural traditions and rural life. It’s also an opportunity to enjoy local produce, like cheeses, fresh milk, and vegetables, right from the source.

Hostels

Switzerland has a well-developed network of hostels that welcome families and provide a budget-friendly option with social benefits.

• Family Rooms: Many Swiss hostels offer family rooms, so parents and children can stay together in a private space. Hostel amenities often include communal kitchens, dining areas, and shared common spaces for relaxing.
• Amenities and Locations: Swiss hostels are often located in convenient spots, from city centers to national parks. Some even offer unique experiences, like the youth hostel in Scuol, which has access to a thermal spa, or the mountain hostel in Grindelwald with views of the Eiger.
• Affordable Option: Hostels provide an affordable way to explore Switzerland, with many offering free or discounted public transportation passes. They’re also great for socializing with other families and travelers.

Bed and Breakfasts

Switzerland’s B&Bs offer a more personal experience, with friendly hosts, cozy rooms, and breakfast included.

• City and Countryside B&Bs: B&Bs are widely available in cities, small towns, and countryside areas, providing an array of choices. City B&Bs offer convenient access to attractions, while countryside options often provide beautiful settings near lakes or mountains.
• Local Hosts: Staying in a B&B allows families to interact with locals and get insider tips on attractions and hidden gems. Hosts often go the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and welcoming stay, making it feel like a home away from home. We love this option because it feels like a local guide is giving us a behind the scenes look! 
• Family-Friendly Options: Many B&Bs cater to families with larger rooms or suites, play areas, and sometimes even babysitting services.

Camping (or Glamping if you prefer!)

For adventurous families, camping and glamping provide an exciting way to experience Switzerland’s natural beauty. From traditional tent sites to luxurious glamping options, there’s something for everyone.

• Campgrounds: Switzerland’s campgrounds are clean, well-organized, and often located near lakes or in mountain regions. Popular areas include Lake Geneva, Lake Thun, and the Engadine Valley. Many campgrounds offer amenities like playgrounds, laundry facilities, and even small stores for essentials.
• Glamping: For a more comfortable outdoor experience, glamping sites offer luxury tents, yurts, and even treehouses. These accommodations provide the comforts of home, like beds, heating, and private bathrooms, with the excitement of sleeping close to nature.
• Caravan Rentals: Many campgrounds offer spots for campervans, and there are several rental companies in Switzerland that make it easy for families to travel and stay on the road. Campervans are perfect for exploring multiple regions and taking in the beautiful Swiss landscapes.

Unusual Accommodations

For an unforgettable stay, consider one of Switzerland’s unique accommodations, from treehouses to mountain huts and igloos.

• Mountain Huts: Swiss mountain huts, or “hüttens,” provide rustic accommodations high in the Alps. Staying in a mountain hut offers unique travel experiences, often involving shared dormitories and communal dining, and is popular with hiking families. Options include huts in the Bernese Oberland, Valais, and Engadine regions.
• Igloos: Families visiting Switzerland in winter can stay in igloo villages located in places like Zermatt, Davos, and Engelberg. These igloos are furnished with sleeping bags and extra blankets to keep guests cozy. Many igloo villages also have activities like snowshoeing and fondue dinners.
• Treehouses and Eco-Lodges: Switzerland has several treehouse and eco-lodge options, often located near nature reserves or national parks. These accommodations offer sustainable, family-friendly stays with beautiful views and easy access to nature trails.

Switzerland offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from alpine chalets to urban family hotels with kid-centric amenities.

Transportation Tips

Switzerland’s public transport system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate, making it ideal for families. It’s also present in most cities and regions so you can take advantage of the transit system in various areas throughout your stay. 

• Swiss Travel Pass: This pass allows unlimited travel on Switzerland’s trains, buses, and boats, with discounts on mountain excursions. Kids under 16 travel for free when accompanied by a parent with a Swiss Family Card, which is included with the Swiss Travel Pass. Get to know the train station locations near your accommodations! 
• Scenic Train Routes: The Glacier Express, GoldenPass Line, and Bernina Express are not only transportation but experiences in themselves, offering breathtaking views of Switzerland’s landscapes. These routes are family-friendly, with panoramic windows and onboard dining options.
• Traveling with Strollers: Major cities like Zurich and Lucerne are very stroller-friendly. However, if you plan to visit mountainous areas, a compact, foldable stroller or baby carrier is best due to the stairs and uneven paths.

Bucket List Things to Do with Kids in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a wide range of activities for all ages, from adventure parks to interactive museums. These activities are across most of the regions and definitely are not all-inclusive of the fun things to do on a Switzerland family vacation, it’s just a start to get you excited about the options that are out there. 

1. Ride the Golden Round Trip to Mount Pilatus: Take a boat ride from Lucerne across Lake Lucerne, board the world’s steepest cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus, and descend by gondola. This thrilling combination is a highlight for little kids and parents alike.
2. Visit Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: From Interlaken, take the Jungfrau Mountain Railway to Jungfraujoch. At over 11,000 feet, families can explore the Ice Palace, enjoy sledding, and take in views of the Aletsch Glacier.
3. Discover Gruyères Castle and the Chocolate Factory: Take a day trip to Gruyères, where kids can explore the medieval castle and get hands-on at the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory, with interactive displays and chocolate tasting.
4. Take a Scenic Boat Ride on Lake Geneva: Explore Lake Geneva by boat for a leisurely day out. Boats stop at several family-friendly spots, including the medieval Chillon Castle, where kids can learn about knights and legends.
5. Play and Learn at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne: With interactive exhibits on the history of the Olympics, this museum is both fun and educational. The Olympic Park outside has sculptures, fountains, and views over Lake Geneva, perfect for picnics.
6. Experience Swiss Miniature in Melide: Located near Lugano, this open-air museum features miniature models of Switzerland’s landmarks, castles, and mountains. Kids will enjoy wandering through this pint-sized version of Switzerland.
7. Go Tobogganing at Glacier 3000: If your family is up for an alpine adventure, Glacier 3000 near Gstaad has a thrilling toboggan run, suspension bridge, and various winter activities for kids.
8. Explore the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne: Kids will love the exhibits on planes, trains, automobiles, and even space travel. The museum also has a planetarium, perfect for curious young minds.

7-Day Itinerary Options

Ideally, you would start and end in a location with a major airport, or drive into/out of the country on a longer European road trip (which is what we did!). 

Major airports in Switzerland, such as Zurich airport, Geneva, Basel, and Bern, are all great starting and ending locations for international flights. If you are looking for a regional airport you could also consider Lugano, Sion and St Gallen. 

Here are three 7-day itinerary options for families exploring Switzerland, each tailored to different interests: Classic Switzerland, Alpine Adventure, and Cultural Exploration.

Classic Switzerland – Highlights of Iconic Cities and Scenic Landscapes

This itinerary is ideal for families looking to experience Switzerland’s top cities, charming villages, and stunning landscapes with a blend of urban attractions and nature.

Day 1: Zurich

• Arrive in Zurich and settle in.
• Explore the Old Town (Altstadt), walk along Bahnhofstrasse, and visit a few of the popular Zurich attractions.
• Take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Zurich.

Day 2: Lucerne for Two Nights

• Take a train to Lucerne (about 50 minutes).
• Visit the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and Swiss Museum of Transport.
• In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic Lake Lucerne boat cruise or take the funicular up Mount Rigi.

Day 3: Mount Pilatus

• Spend the day exploring Mount Pilatus. Take the cogwheel train up, enjoy the panoramic views, and explore the mountain trails.
• Return to Lucerne for an overnight stay.

Day 4: Bern Overnight

• Travel to Bern (about 1 hour by train).
• Visit the Zytglogge (clock tower), Bern Bear Park, and the Bern Historical Museum.
• Stroll through the medieval streets and enjoy views of the Aare River.

Day 5: Interlaken for One Night and see Lake Thun 

• Head to Interlaken (1-hour train from Bern).
• Explore Interlaken, take a boat cruise on Lake Thun, or visit the beautiful town of Thun.
• Spend the night in Interlaken.

Day 6: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

• Take the train from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch (about 2 hours).
• Experience the Ice Palace, the Sphinx Observatory, and outdoor activities in the snow.
• Return to Interlaken for the night.

Day 7: Zurich Departure

• Travel back to Zurich for your flight or spend some time shopping and relaxing before departure.

Alpine Adventure – Mountains, Lakes, and Outdoor Fun

This adventure-filled itinerary is designed for families who love nature and want to experience Switzerland’s best mountain and outdoor activities.

Day 1: Geneva for One Night

• Arrive in Geneva, explore the lakeside area, and see the Jet d’Eau fountain.
• Visit Parc de la Grange and the Museum of Natural History.
• Overnight in Geneva.

Day 2: Lausanne and Montreux for One Night

• Travel to Lausanne (about 40 minutes by train).
• Visit the Olympic Museum and walk along the lakefront.
• Head to Montreux and take a walk along the lakeside promenade.
• Overnight in Montreux.

Day 3: Zermatt for Two Nights and see the Matterhorn

• Take a scenic train ride to Zermatt (about 2 hours).
• Enjoy views of the Matterhorn and explore the village.
• Take the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the Alps.
• Overnight in Zermatt.

Day 4: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

• Visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for snow activities and the ice cave.
• In the afternoon, go hiking or explore the Glacier Trail.
• Overnight in Zermatt.

Day 5: Interlaken for Two Nights and Lake Brienz

• Travel to Interlaken (about 2.5 hours by train).
• Explore Interlaken, visit Lake Brienz, or take a boat ride.
• Spend the night in Interlaken.

Day 6: Grindelwald and First Cliff Walk

• Take a day trip to Grindelwald.
• Ride the First Gondola up to the First Cliff Walk and enjoy family-friendly hikes.
• Return to Interlaken for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Bernese Oberland and Departure

• Depending on your departure, take some time in the morning to explore more of the Bernese Oberland before heading to Zurich or Geneva for your flight.

Cultural Exploration – History, Traditions, and Charming Towns

This itinerary is crafted for families interested in Swiss culture, traditional villages, and historical sites.

Day 1: Zurich for Two Nights

• Arrive in Zurich and get settled.
• Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich (Art Museum) and stroll through the Old Town.
• Overnight in Zurich.

Day 2: St. Gallen and Abbey of St. Gall

• Head to St. Gallen (30 minutes by train).
• Visit the UNESCO-listed Abbey of St. Gall and its renowned library.
• Enjoy a city tour, focusing on the historical architecture and art.
• Return to Zurich for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Appenzell for One Night and Swiss Traditions

• Take a train to Appenzell (about 1.5 hours).
• Explore this charming village, known for its colorful buildings and traditional Swiss customs.
• Walk along the easy hiking trails around the Ebenalp area.
• Overnight in Appenzell.

Day 4: Lucerne for One Night

• Travel to Lucerne.
• Explore Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Lucerne.
• Spend the night in Lucerne.

Day 5: Bern for Two Nights

• Take a train to Bern.
• Discover the medieval Old Town, the Bear Park, and the Zytglogge (clock tower).
• Overnight in Bern.

Day 6: Gruyères and Swiss Cheese

• Take a day trip to Gruyères.
• Visit the Gruyères Castle and the Maison Cailler chocolate factory nearby.
• Overnight in Bern.

Day 7: Montreux and Departure

• Travel to Montreux (about 1 hour).
• Explore the beautiful lakeside town, visit Chillon Castle, and relax by Lake Geneva.
• Depending on your flight, depart from Geneva or return to Zurich.

Alternatively, you could also spend most of your time in one place and take day trips. I highly recommend a home base of Zurich and a few days trips over your 7-day timeframe in the city.

Final Tips For Smooth Family Travel

• Book tickets in advance: Attractions like Jungfraujoch and the Swiss Travel Pass can be booked online, saving you time and guaranteeing entry.
• Pack layers: Swiss weather varies, especially in the mountains. Bring layers, rain gear, and good walking shoes.
• Think through your route: View the map and determine where you will be and which activities you would like to tackle in those areas. 

A Switzerland vacation with kids promises awe-inspiring scenery, endless outdoor fun, and rich cultural experiences that will create lifelong memories. Whether you’re sledding down a glacier, exploring medieval castles, or simply soaking in the views from a train window, a Switzerland family vacation offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and relaxation.