6-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Switzerland
Switzerland is a dream destination for families, offering a rare combination of breathtaking natural beauty and world-class infrastructure that makes traveling with children remarkably easy. This classic route connects the urban charm of Zurich with the alpine majesty of the Jungfrau region, ensuring every transition is smooth, scenic, and manageable with a stroller.
We have curated this journey to emphasize relaxed mornings and engaging afternoons. By utilizing the legendary Swiss Travel System, you can skip the stress of driving and instead enjoy the panoramic views while your children enjoy dedicated family zones on the trains. This guide balances iconic sightseeing with plenty of space for kids to run and play.
Day 1: Zurich - Arrival & Lakeside Leisure
Arrival at Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Touch down at Switzerland's primary international hub. The airport is exceptionally family-friendly, featuring dedicated play zones and easy access to the train station located directly beneath the terminal.
Check-in and Lunch at Niederdorf
Drop your bags at a hotel near the Main Station and head into the car-free Old Town (Altstadt). Enjoy a family lunch at a traditional cafe while soaking in the medieval atmosphere.
Lake Zurich Promenade Walk
A completely flat and stroller-accessible path that offers stunning lake views. Let the kids watch the swans or play at the various lakeside parks like the Arboretum.
FIFA Museum
Even for non-sports fans, this interactive museum is a hit with kids. It features colorful exhibits and a giant pinball machine game that children can participate in.
Day 2: Lucerne - Cultural Gems and Lake Cruises
Scenic Train to Lucerne
Board a comfortable SBB train for a 45-minute journey. The route passes through lush green fields and small villages, providing a perfect introduction to the Swiss countryside.
Chapel Bridge & Lion Monument
Visit the iconic wooden bridge and then take a short, accessible walk to the Lion Monument, a moving sculpture carved directly into a rock face.
Swiss Museum of Transport
Considered one of the best museums in Europe for children, this massive complex features trains, planes, and a chocolate adventure ride.
Lake Lucerne Sunset Cruise
End the day on a historic paddle steamer. The boats have plenty of indoor and outdoor space, allowing families to enjoy the breeze without feeling confined.
Day 3: Lucerne - The Queen of the Mountains
Boat Trip to Vitznau
Depart from the Lucerne main pier for a relaxing boat ride across the lake to the base of Mount Rigi.
Rigi Cogwheel Railway
Board the first cogwheel train in Europe to reach Rigi Kulm. The ascent is gentle and the views of the surrounding 13 lakes are unparalleled.
Stroller-Friendly Path at Rigi Kaltbad
The path between Rigi Kulm and Rigi Kaltbad is wide and well-paved, making it perfect for a mountain stroll with a stroller.
Mineral Baths Relaxation
At Rigi Kaltbad, families can enjoy the mineral baths designed by Mario Botta, which include a family-friendly pool area with stunning Alpine views.
Day 4: Interlaken - Adventure Hub of the Jungfrau
Luzern-Interlaken Express
Travel on one of the most scenic sections of the GoldenPass Line. These trains feature large panoramic windows and are fully equipped for travelers with strollers and luggage.
Funky Chocolate Club Workshop
Interlaken is the heart of Swiss chocolate. Join a family workshop where kids can learn to make and decorate their own chocolate bars.
Höhematte Park & Paragliders
This large open green space in the center of Interlaken is perfect for kids to run free while watching paragliders land safely on the grass.
Dinner in Unterseen
Cross the Aare river to the historic district of Unterseen for a quiet dinner away from the main tourist strip.
Day 5: Interlaken - Alpine Playgrounds in Grindelwald
Train to Grindelwald
A short 30-minute mountain train ride brings you into the heart of the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by the Eiger and Wetterhorn peaks.
Grindelwald First Gondola
Take the cable car up to 'First'. The gondolas are large enough for strollers, and the views of the North Face of the Eiger are world-famous.
Bort Alpine Playground
On the way down from First, get off at the Bort station. It features an incredible mountain playground with slides and swings, all with a backdrop of glaciers.
Lauterbrunnen Valley Gaze
A quick stop at Lauterbrunnen to see the Staubbach Falls, which plummet 300 meters from the cliffs right next to the village.
Day 6: Interlaken to Zurich - Peak Views and Departure
Harder Kulm Funicular
Ride the steep funicular to the 'Top of Interlaken'. The viewing platform offers a 'Two Lakes Bridge' that is safe for kids and provides views of both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
Souvenir Shopping at Höheweg
Pick up some Swiss Army knives (engraved) or wooden toys at the many shops along Interlaken’s main boulevard.
Return Train to Zurich
Enjoy the final scenic train ride back to Zurich. The 2-hour journey is a great time for the kids to nap or use the train's play area.
Airport Transfer & Final Farewell
Head directly to Zurich Airport station for your evening departure or check into an airport hotel for a morning flight.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland
For families, the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to September) when the mountain air is pleasant and all hiking trails and playgrounds are accessible. If you prefer a winter wonderland, December to March offers magical Christmas markets and world-class skiing, though mountain walking with a stroller becomes more difficult due to snow.
Currency & Money
The official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). While Switzerland is part of the Schengen area, it is not in the EU, so Euros are not widely used except in major tourist shops at a poor exchange rate. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including for small purchases. Tipping is included in the service charge by law, but rounding up the bill is a common and appreciated gesture for good service.
Getting Around Switzerland
The Swiss Travel System is the backbone of tourism here. We highly recommend the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, as well as free entry to over 500 museums. Children under 16 travel for free with a parent if you have the 'Swiss Family Card'. The trains are punctual, clean, and often feature 'Family Zones' with play areas on double-decker InterCity trains.
