If you’re a travel enthusiast, then Switzerland is likely at the top of your bucket list. It’s no surprise, as Switzerland is truly one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth!
Now you might be wondering, is Switzerland a good place to visit with kids?
Switzerland is a great place to visit with kids. The Swiss culture is incredibly family-oriented, and they’ve cleverly incorporated unique fun activities to keep kids engaged. From city playground to themed hiking paths, your kids will love a family vacation in Switzerland.
As a local family that adores exploring Switzerland, we’re here to make planning your dream Swiss family vacation an absolute breeze.
We’ve put together this handy guide to help you craft an unforgettable itinerary that caters to the whole family.
From wandering through charming Swiss towns to soaking in the awe-inspiring Alpine views, we’ll provide you with friendly tips, insider secrets, and personal recommendations along the way.
So get ready to immerse yourselves in Swiss culture, indulge in delectable Swiss chocolate, and create lifelong memories with your loved ones. Let’s dive in and plan the family vacation of your dreams in beautiful Switzerland!
If you’re looking for family friendly activities in Switzerland check out our other posts.
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When to visit Switzerland with Kids
The ideal time to visit Switzerland with kids depends on the type of activities and experiences you want for your family vacation.
If you’re looking to enjoy the country’s world-renowned ski resorts like St. Moritz or Davos, the best time to visit is between December and March when the snow conditions are optimal.
On the other hand, if you prefer exploring the lush green landscapes, picturesque lakes, and engaging in outdoor sports like hiking or consider planning your trip between June and September.
During these warmer months, you can expect pleasant weather and longer daylight hours, making it perfect for active families to maximize their time outdoors.
Ultimately, Switzerland offers a diverse range of activities and attractions suited for all seasons, ensuring a memorable experience for families regardless of when they choose to visit.
High season in Switzerland
High season in Switzerland typically falls between June and August, when the country experiences warm weather, sunny days, and mild temperatures, attracting a large number of tourists from around the world.
This is an excellent time to explore Switzerland’s picturesque landscapes, charming cities, and indulge in various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and lake cruises.
However, due to the popularity of this season, it’s essential to book your accommodation early to secure the best rates and ensure a comfortable stay for your family.
By planning ahead, you can enjoy all the beauty and excitement that Switzerland has to offer during the high season without any last-minute hassles or disappointments.
How long to travel in Switzerland with kids
There is so much to see in Switzerland, I’ve lived here for 5 years and have yet to explore everything that this beautiful country has to offer. How long you spend in Switzerland will depend entirely on your interests and how long you have.
We recommend spending 7 to 10 days exploring Switzerland with kids, as this provides ample time to visit the must-see attractions, engage in various outdoor activities, and immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and history.
This time frame allows for a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, ensuring that both parents and children can enjoy the vacation at a comfortable pace.
How to get around in Switzerland with kids
When traveling in Switzerland with kids, one of the key considerations is how to get around most conveniently and efficiently. You might be wondering, should you rent a car or use public transportation on your Family vacation in Switzerland.
While renting a car can offer flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace, using public transportation is often the more practical and stress-free option for families.
Switzerland’s public transportation system is renowned for its reliability, punctuality, and extensive network that connects even the most remote regions. The well-connected Swiss trains, buses, and ferries make it easy to navigate between cities and towns, offering a comfortable and scenic journey through the picturesque landscape.
Furthermore, some trains are specifically designed to cater to families, featuring dedicated family carriages with play areas to keep little ones entertained during the trip.
Choosing public transportation not only provides a hassle-free travel experience, but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Swiss way of life and appreciate the country’s commitment to efficient and sustainable mobility.
Where to stay in Switzerland with kids
With so many places to see in Switzerland it can be really overwhelming to decide where to stay. Especially with kids, you need somewhere clean, comfortable, and family friendly.
I know for us, when we travel we like to stay in one place as a home base. So if you’re looking for the perfect destination to embark on a family vacation in Switzerland, let us introduce you to Interlaken. Located in the heart of Switzerland, Interlaken is a picturesque town that serves as an ideal home base for family adventures.
One of the greatest advantages of Switzerland being a relatively small country is that families can easily choose one place as their home base for the entire vacation.
This brings a sense of structure and familiarity that kids and toddlers love. And bonus: no more repacking and dragging all your stuff from one destination to the next!
By making Interlaken your hub, you can explore the surrounding areas, knowing that you have a comfortable and familiar place to return to each day. It allows for a stress-free and enjoyable experience, ensuring that your family vacation is filled with happy memories rather than logistical challenges.
One of the best things about Interlaken is that it’s very central and super easy to get to. You can hop on a train from Zurich HB that goes directly to Interlaken Ost. The whole train ride takes about 2 hours.
Interlaken itself offers a delightful blend of Swiss charm and modern amenities. The town is nestled between two stunning lakes, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop.
We think day-trips are the way to go when traveling with kids. When you stay in Interlaken you’ll discover numerous family-friendly destinations that are just a train ride away. We’ll share some of our favorites in this guide.
7 Days in Switzerland with Kids Itinerary Overview
This is an itinerary for the spring/summer season:
- Day 1: Zurich to Interlaken (Harder Klum)
- Days 2-4: Explore Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region
- Day 5: Day Trip to Lucerne
- Day 6: Day trip to Bern
- Day 7: Interlaken to Zurich
Day 1: Zurich to Interlaken and Harder Kulm
During our recent family trip to Interlaken, we had the opportunity to visit the exciting Dinosaur World Tour, an experience our toddler loved!
The exhibition brought the prehistoric world to life with its life-sized dinosaur models, interactive displays, and engaging fossil dig activities.
If you visit we suggest going in the morning. There isn’t much shade so it will get quite hot. You only need about 1 to 1.5 hours maximum.
Another highlight for families visiting Interlaken is Seilpark Interlaken, an outdoor adventure park set amidst the beautiful Swiss forest.
It features various obstacle courses, zip lines, and climbing challenges. The park caters to all skill levels and ages, making it an ideal destination for older kids as well as little ones.
You can book your tickets in advances here.
Afternoon: Explore Harder Kulm
We suggest picking one activity for the morning and in the afternoon heading up to Harder Kulm to get a panoramic view of the Alps. The funicular is over 100 years old and will transport you up to 1,322 meters in just 10 minutes.
The station is just an 8 minute walk from Interlaken Ost train station. This activity isn’t stroller friendly so bring a baby carrier for little ones.
The ride on the steeply inclined railway alone is a thrill for kids of all ages, but the real magic happens once you reach the top. On a clear day, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and nearby lakes, making it the perfect backdrop for family photos.
And once you’ve soaked in the scenery, there is a restaurant at the top if you need a bite to eat. If you’re traveling during high season make sure to buy your tickets in advance.
Day 2-4: Explore Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region
One of the major advantages of making the Bernese Oberland your home base for your family vacation in Switzerland is the proximity to the spectacular Jungfrau region.
The Männlichen playground and hike to Kleine Scheidegg offer a fantastic outdoor experience for families visiting Interlaken.
To begin your adventure, take the gondola from Grindelwald or Wengen up to Männlichen, where you’ll find a delightful playground that captures the hearts of children with its various play areas, climbing structures, and picturesque surroundings.
Once you’ve enjoyed the playground, embark on the easy hike from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, which spans approximately 4.5 kilometers and takes around 1.5 hours to complete. This well-maintained trail meanders through beautiful alpine meadows, offering breathtaking views of the mountain peaks and valleys.
While the path is relatively flat and suitable for all ages, it’s important to note that it may not be entirely stroller-friendly due to some uneven terrain. Therefore, a baby carrier might be a more convenient option for families with infants or toddlers.
If you’re hungry when you arrive in Kleine Scheidegg there are several family restaurants that serve typical Swiss dishes like rösti and bratwurst.
After lunch in Kleine Scheidegg, you can take the train back to Interlaken, providing a comfortable and scenic journey through the Swiss countryside.
Afternoon Option: Jungfraujoch Top Of Europe
If the skies are clear you might want to spend the afternoon at arguably one of the popular tourist destinations in Switzerland, Jungfraujoch.
From Kleine Scheigegg you can take the Cogwheel train up to the highest train station in Europe. Now there is a lot of debate between tourists and locals if Jungfraujoch is worth it.
Many say if you’re traveling with little kids skip it since there are so many other kid-friendly activities that they’ll enjoy just as much. A major drawback is that the tickets to Jungfraujoch aren’t exactly cheap. While children under 5 travel for free and 6 to 15 travel at a reduced rate, you’re still looking at over 300 Swiss Francs for a family of 4.
If you skip Jungfraujoch you can take the cable car from Kleine Scheidegg down to Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen.
We suggest using the afternoon to explore Lauterbrunnen and the Valley of 72 Waterfalls. There is also a small playground in Lauterbrunnen and lots of spots to stop for ice cream.
If you still have energy you could walk to the impressive waterfalls at the Trummelbach Falls. The walk from Lauterbrunnen to Trummelbach is entirely flat and will take about 40 minutes.
Parent tip: If you have little kids skip this as for safety reasons kids under 4 can’t enter the falls.
If you have older kids you could also go to Grindelwald to the Pfingstegg to ride one of the coolest summer toboggan runs. From Grindelwald you can take the gondola up to the Pfingstegg station.
Here you’ll find a toboggan run (sometimes called a mountain coaster) that is over 700 meters long. Talk about an adrenaline rush!
Day 3: Boat Ride and Explore Lake Brienz
A great way to explore the picturesque surroundings of Interlaken with your family is by taking a leisurely boat cruise from Interlaken to Brienz.
This scenic journey across the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz offers a unique perspective on the diverse landscapes, charming villages, and majestic mountains that characterize the region.
The boat itself is equipped with comfortable seating areas, both indoor and outdoor, ensuring a pleasant experience for passengers of all ages. The boat ride will take about 75 minutes.
Upon arrival in Brienz, you can explore the quaint town and stroll along the lakeside promenade. Right on the lakeside promenade there is a water playground. It offers a variety of water-based activities and play structures. Your kiddos will have endless fun as they splash around.
In the afternoon you can check out the Trauffer World of Experiences. This attraction in Brienz offers a fascinating insight into the art of Swiss woodcarving, specially the iconic Trauffer wooden toys.
Perfect for families, this interactive experience teaches about the history and craftsmanship behind these beloved Swiss souvenirs. They can even engage in hands-on activities such as painting their own wooden cow or exploring the charming toy museum.
To reach the Trauffer World of Experiences from Brienz, you can easily take a short bus ride from the town center. You just hop on the 151 at the Breinz BE and take the 20 minute rides to the Holzkuhplatz (English translation: Wooden Cow Square, how cute!).
Whether you’re a fan of wooden toys or simply looking for an entertaining and informative outing, this attraction is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Day 4: Visit Allmendhubel Flower Park in Mürren
Embarking on a journey from Interlaken to the Allmendhubel Flower Park in Mürren is a must-do for families.
To reach this enchanting destination, start by taking a train from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen. From there, a picturesque cable car ride will transport you to the charming mountain village of Mürren.
Once you arrive, follow the signs to the funicular, which will take you up to Allmendhubel, where the mesmerizing Flower Park awaits.
Important note: the Funicular is closed for maintenance until June 9th, 2023. Instead take the Panoramic hike from Murren. This is a scenic easy hike that will take you about 45 minutes. It’s also relatively flat so it’s perfect for strollers.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Swiss Alps, the Allmendhubel Flower Park boasts a spectacular display of vibrant alpine flora that captivates visitors with its beauty and diversity.
As you stroll through the park, you’ll be surrounded by a colorful tapestry of flowers, set against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. In addition to the visual feast, the park offers various walking trails and family-friendly activities, including a thrilling alpine playground that keeps children entertained for hours.
A visit to the Allmendhubel Flower Park in Mürren offers the perfect opportunity for families to connect with nature, explore the idyllic alpine scenery, and create unforgettable memories together in the heart of Switzerland’s majestic landscape.
Day 5: Day Trip to Lucerne
Lucerne is a popular destination for everyone who visits Switzerland. This beautiful city and it’s easily accessible from Interlaken.
To get there, you can hop on the scenic GoldenPass train ride that takes you through the picturesque Swiss countryside. Read all about traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne via the GoldenPass Train here.
Once in Lucerne, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Don’t miss the iconic Chapel Bridge, a historic wooden bridge that offers stunning views of the city and Lake Lucerne.
Taking a leisurely boat ride on the lake is another fantastic way to soak in the beauty of the area while keeping the kids entertained.
If you have bigger kids you might want to rent a paddle boat. They’ll love venturing out of the beautiful lake Lucerne and jumping in the water.
If you plan to see the Pilatus, don’t miss the Pilu-Land playground, which is a must-visit for families with young children. Located at the Krienseregg gondola station, this playground is an absolute blast.
With various play areas, slides, and interactive elements, kids can let their imaginations run wild while parents relax and take in the surrounding mountain views. The Pilu-Land playground is a perfect spot for the entire family to unwind and enjoy quality time together.
Day 6: Day Trip To Bern
Bern, the enchanting capital of Switzerland, is a fantastic destination for families looking to experience the charm and wonder of this beautiful city. With its captivating Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site – and the mesmerizing Aare River, Bern offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate visitors of all ages.
One of the reasons why Bern is such a great place for families is its walkability. The compact Old Town can easily be explored on foot, allowing you and your little ones to wander through its picturesque cobblestone streets and marvel at the stunning architecture that dates back centuries.
As you stroll through the historic heart of the city, don’t forget to stop by the famous arcades of Kramgasse, where you can enjoy some shopping or simply relax in the shade during the warm summer months.
For an unforgettable family experience, make sure to visit the Bear Park, which is easily accessible from the Old Town via the charming Nydeggbrücke bridge. Here, children will delight in watching Bern’s beloved bears frolic and play in their spacious habitat. The park is also a popular spot for families to enjoy a leisurely picnic as they take in the breathtaking views of the Aare River.
Another must-visit destination for families is the enchanting Rose Garden, where you’ll find a fantastic playground that will keep the kids entertained for hours. Surrounded by vibrant roses and offering panoramic views of the Old Town, it’s the perfect spot for families to relax and spend quality time together.
Read our post on one day in Bern for more ideas and a handy city map will all the must-see landmarks.
Family Tip: The Bern Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Audio Tour offered by GetYourGuide is an engaging and interactive experience for families with kids. The tour allows participants to explore the beautiful city of Bern while completing a fun scavenger hunt.
With the help of an audio guide, families can learn about Bern’s history, culture, and landmarks while solving clues and completing challenges. This activity provides an educational and entertaining way for families to bond, learn, and have a great time together in the charming city of Bern.
Day 7: Interlaken To Zurich
On day seven of your trip you’ll explore Switzerland’s most populated city before heading back to Zurich airport. As a Zuricher myself (hope that’s a word), I know a few things about family fun in Zurich.
First off let’s talk about the logistics. From Interlaken Ost you’ll catch the IC 81 which is a direct train to Zurich HB. Check the SBB app for the FA sign, this means there will be a family carriage with a play area. The whole journey will take 2 hours, but with the play area and the beautiful scenery to gaze at, this will fly by.
When you arrive in Zurich HB, you can store your luggage in secure lockers. I’ll try and explain this the best I can, because even the SBB maps make this complicated.
When you arrive at the train station, walk inside the main building. There is a pharmacy located in the main atrium. Behind that there is an elevator, take it down one floor to the mezzanine. If you go down and see a Sephora, you’re on the wrong floor, go up one.
On the mezzanine floor, right beside the washroom there is a place to store your luggage.
With your hands free now you can explore Zurich! If you need some lunch head over to the Bellevue and the Opera House. You can walk along the Limmat, or take the 11 tram.
One of our favorites is Tibits, but there are many great spots to eat.
After lunch you can head over to the Lindt Home of Chocolate. This is a fantastic experience and we recommend it to everyone who comes to visit us in Switzerland.
The fun part is, to get to Lindt, you can take a boat on Zurich lake from Burklipltaz to Kilchberg. See this online time table to check the boat schedule.
The Lindt Home of Chocolate invites visitors of all ages to embark on a captivating journey through the world of chocolate. You’ll learn about its origins and how it became the luxurious Lindt confections we know and love.
Interactive exhibits, informative displays, and fascinating guided tours cater to the interests and curiosity of both children and adults, providing an engaging and educational experience for the entire family.
The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the impressive chocolate fountain, where visitors can witness the cascading flow of molten chocolate.
What to Pack for in Switzerland for With Kids
When planning a family trip to Switzerland, you might be wondering what to pack for your kids to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Switzerland’s climate can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year, so versatile clothing is essential. Pack layers such as lightweight shirts, sweaters, and jackets that can be easily added or removed as temperatures fluctuate.
Don’t forget waterproof outerwear and sturdy shoes for outdoor adventures, as well as sun protection in the form of hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
If you’re going up to the mountains you don’t need snow boots, your kids will be okay in just running shoes or hiking boots.
For younger children, a compact travel stroller or baby carrier is useful for navigating Swiss cities and towns.
Additionally, packing a small first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers (these are really expensive in Switzerland, so bring them with you), and any necessary prescription medications is always a good idea.
To keep kids entertained during long journeys, bring along their favorite toys, books, or audiobooks with headphones.
Now what to put it all in? Our biggest suggestion is to try and pack light! I see a lot of tourists with HUGE suitcases struggling to take them on and off the trains. If you can manage with a travel backpack or a duffle bag and a small suitcase on wheels go for this option.
What a journey! If you’ve taken the advice given here, your trip to Switzerland with kids should be an amazing experience.
From seeing mountain tops in the Alps to exploring stunning lakes and elegant cityscapes, it’s hard not to fall in love with the country.
So don’t forget to pack your camera and take advantage of every opportunity to explore this remarkable place from all angles.
Final Thoughts
Even though there may be some moments of stress, obstacles along the way can always be faced with resilience or reluctance. Don’t let any hiccups on the trip stop you from making memories that will last a lifetime.
Traveling with children is a challenge but ultimately so rewarding when done right. We wish you all the best and hope that your experiences will bring unique moments and insight into what Switzerland has to offer for families.
If one thing is certain, no matter where you go in Switzerland, it will always be an adventure for your family to remember! Let us know in the comments if you still have any questions about travel in Switzerland with kids – we’d love to hear from you!
