7-Day Switzerland Itinerary for Families

This guide lays out three 7-day Switzerland itineraries tailored for families and first-time visitors, depending on whether you arrive via Zurich Airport, Geneva Airport, or Milan Airport.

Each route features:

A clear day-by-day breakdown with scenic rail and road connections
Kid-friendly sights and activities that are exciting but not exhausting
Travel tips based on late spring, summer, or early autumn — when weather is mild and mountain excursions are running

Click on the city's name to directly access the 7-day Switzerland itinerary starting from Geneva or Milan.

7 Days in Switzerland – Starting in Zurich

This is the standard tourist route most travellers to Switzerland arriving in Zurich will do. Along your way, especially in Lucerne and Interlaken you will meet many fellow visitors.

Map of the Route

Map of Switzerland with a marked route from Zurich to Zermatt via Lucerne and Interlaken. Major cities and lakes are labeled. — A scenic 7-day journey through the heart of Switzerland, starting from Zurich and exploring the picturesque towns of Lucerne, Interlaken, and Zermatt.

Day 1: Arrive in Zurich – Old Town Walk & Lake Cruise

A river view in Zurich with historic buildings, a tram, and a church spire under a partly cloudy sky. The mood is calm and picturesque. — Scenic view over Zurich's charming old town and the Limmat River, showcasing its quaint architecture and iconic church steeples under a partly cloudy sky.

Land in Zurich and head into the city center. Spend the afternoon exploring the cobblestone streets of the Altstadt (Old Town), visiting Grossmünster Cathedral, and strolling along the Limmat River. Hop on a short lake cruise from Bürkliplatz for a peaceful introduction to Swiss scenery. Have dinner at Zeughauskeller (or any other Swiss-style restaurant), a kid-friendly spot locals love for hearty portions and a lively atmosphere. Visit the Lindt Chocolate Factory. Hotel Glockenhof, a family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and a fantastic central location close to Bahnhofstrasse and the Old Town.

Day 2: Lucerne – Chapel Bridge & Lakeside Charm

Historic wooden bridge over a calm river, stone tower, and mountains in the background, under a clear blue sky. Reflections visible. — Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, with its iconic water tower, stretches gracefully across the calm waters, reflecting the city’s picturesque skyline against a clear blue sky.

Take the train to Lucerne (just under an hour). Wander across the flower-draped Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), see the Lion Monument, and enjoy time in Lucerne’s car-free Old Town. In the afternoon, consider a steamer boat ride on Lake Lucerne or a visit to the Glacier Garden with its mirror maze. Stay overnight in Lucerne at a family-friendly hotel by the river. Great options include Hotel des Balances for charm and location in the Old Town, Hotel des Alpes with stunning Chapel Bridge views, or Radisson Blu Lucerne for modern comfort near the station. For a luxury splurge, consider the historic Hotel Schweizerhof or Grand Hotel National, both offering lakeside elegance and spacious family rooms.

Day 3: Mt. Pilatus or Rigi – Mountain Day

Breathtaking panoramic view from Mount Rigi, showcasing expansive green valleys and the shimmering blue lake below under a vast, clear sky.

Choose between Mt. Pilatus for its famous Golden Round Trip (boat, cogwheel train, and gondola) or Mt. Rigi, known for gentle hikes and panoramic views. Both are great for families and include fun modes of transport. My personal favorite is Mount Pilatus (trip via the gondola) , but Mount Rigi is also excellent. Be sure to check the webcams (Rigi / Pilatus webcam) before you go to see if there are any clouds that might obstruct the view. Head back to Lucerne in the afternoon for some downtime at the lakefront or a visit to the Swiss Museum of Transport (plan in about 3-5 hours). Here are some excellent suggestions for rainy weather.

Mountain landscape with rocky cliffs in the foreground, overlooking a lake and distant peaks under a clear blue sky. Calm and expansive view. — Stunning panoramic view of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps from Mount Pilatus, showcasing dramatic cliffs and lush valleys.

Day 4: Interlaken – Scenic Rail & Mountain Views

Hop on the scenic Luzern–Interlaken Express (every hour, no seat reservations required) and enjoy a two-hour ride through mountain valleys and past shimmering lakes. Arrive in Interlaken and head to Höheweg Park for a casual stroll or take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for a sunset view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Stay in a centrally located hotel like Hotel Interlaken.

Overlooking a verdant valley with a town, surrounded by towering mountains and snowy peaks under a clear blue sky; autumn foliage in foreground. — Breathtaking view from Harder Kulm, showcasing the lush valley and majestic snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps.

Day 5: Lauterbrunnen Valley – Waterfalls & Alpine Villages

Catch a train to Lauterbrunnen and spend the day exploring the valley’s dramatic waterfalls and green meadows. Take a cable car up to Mürren, a car-free village with incredible views and a playground at Allmendhubel. Or cross the valley to Wengen for an equally charming experience. Picnic outdoors or dine in a rustic mountain lodge. Head back to Interlaken in the evening.

Aerial view of a valley with a village, green fields, and a waterfall cascading down a cliff. Snow-capped mountains in the background, clear sky. — A breathtaking view of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, showcasing charming villages nestled between lush green meadows, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls under a clear blue sky.

Day 6: Zermatt – Matterhorn Views & Gornergrat Railway

Travel to Zermatt by train, changing in Spiez and passing through Visp. In Zermatt, stroll the car-free village streets and take the Gornergrat railway up for stunning views of the Matterhorn. For a fun alternative, ride the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car.

Check out Hotel Post Zermatt, a super family-friendly spot right in the heart of the village! It's got a laid-back vibe and is super easy to get to, with the station and some great restaurants just a short walk away.

For meals, try Restaurant Walliserkanne for affordable Swiss classics like rösti and fondue in a cozy, rustic setting. For a mid-range experience with mountain views and authentic recipes, Chez Vrony or Zum See are great picks.

Day 7: Return to Zurich – Optional Bern Stop

Take the train back to Zurich for your flight home. If time allows, stop in Bern for a walk through the Old Town and a visit to the Bear Park.

💡 Family Tip: Don’t skip the Glacier Garden in Lucerne—there’s a mirror maze the kids will love. The Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne is also excellent for children.

🍽️ Local Pick: Zeughauskeller in Zurich is a family go-to: fast service, huge schnitzels, and long tables where no one minds a little kid noise.

Day	Base	Highlights
1	Zurich	Arrive and explore Zurich’s Old Town, wander along the Limmat River, and take a boat ride on Lake Zurich.
2	Lucerne	Train to Lucerne. Stroll the Chapel Bridge, explore the car-free Old Town, and enjoy a lake cruise.
3	Lucerne	Mountain adventure: ride the cogwheel train up Mt. Pilatus or take the gentler Mt. Rigi route.
4	Interlaken	Take the scenic GoldenPass train. Explore Interlaken or ride the funicular up to Harder Kulm viewpoint.
5	Interlaken	Day trip to Lauterbrunnen Valley. Visit Mürren or Wengen. Waterfalls, cable cars, and mountain fun.
6	Zermatt	Travel to car-free Zermatt. Ride the Gornergrat railway for Matterhorn views.
7	Zurich	Return to Zurich. Optional stop in Bern for a stroll and lunch before flying out.

7 Days in Switzerland – Starting in Geneva

Map of the Route

Map of Switzerland with a highlighted route from Geneva to Bern, passing through Montreux and Spiez. Lakes and cities labeled. — Route map tracing a journey from Geneva through Montreux and into the German-speaking regions of Interlaken and Bern in Switzerland.

Day 1: Arrive in Geneva – Parks, Old Town & Lake Cruise

Land at Geneva Airport and take the short train or tram into the city. Spend your first day exploring the lakeside promenade and iconic Jet d’Eau fountain. Visit the Flower Clock in the English Garden and stroll through Geneva’s compact Old Town, where you can climb to the top of St. Pierre Cathedral for panoramic views. End the day with a relaxing one-hour boat cruise on Lake Geneva.

If you're looking for a great place to stay, consider the Sagitta Swiss Quality Hotel. They offer spacious family suites with kitchenettes and are conveniently located near the lake for beautiful views. For dinner, check out Café du Soleil, a relaxed local spot known for its delicious traditional fondue.

Jet d'Eau fountain sprays water high, creating a rainbow over Lake Geneva. Buildings and mountains in the background under clear blue sky. — The majestic Jet d’Eau fountain rises over Lake Geneva, creating a vibrant rainbow against the clear blue sky, with the cityscape and mountains providing a stunning backdrop.

Day 2: Montreux – Chillon Castle & Lavaux Vineyards

Take a scenic train along the lake to Montreux. From here, visit Chillon Castle, one of Switzerland’s most famous and family-friendly castles. Walk the lakeside promenade and, if you have time, stop by the Lavaux vineyards for a gentle stroll among terraced vines with lake views. It’s UNESCO-listed and an easy win with a picnic and great views. To be honest, I do recommend doing both, so get up early and head over to Montreux to visit the Lavaux vineyards during the day, and in the late afternoon, hop over to the castle.

Castle by a lake with mountainous backdrop, rustic brown roofs, surrounded by green trees. A red flag flies atop the main tower. — Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva against a backdrop of lush mountains, Chillon Castle stands as a testament to medieval architecture and history, showcasing its picturesque beauty.

Day 3: Gruyères & Broc – Chocolate & Cheese Day

Hop on the Chocolate Train or take the regular route to Gruyères. Visit the Maison du Gruyère to watch cheese being made, then walk up to the medieval hilltop village. Tour Gruyères Castle and enjoy a classic fondue lunch. In the afternoon, head to nearby Broc to explore the Maison Cailler chocolate factory – the interactive exhibits and unlimited tasting room are always a family highlight. If you have the opportunity, visit the HR Giger Bar Museum in the castle town of Gruyeres. It has recently gained Instagram fame because of its unique interior.

Day 4: GoldenPass to Interlaken – Lakes & Alpine Views

Aerial view of a lush valley surrounded by misty mountains. A town with a river runs through green fields under a partly cloudy sky. — A breathtaking aerial view of Interlaken, nestled beautifully between two lakes, surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps.

Travel on the GoldenPass panoramic train to Interlaken, passing through Gstaad and stunning Alpine countryside. Once in Interlaken, stretch your legs with a stroll along Höheweg or take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for sunset views over Lake Thun and the Jungfrau mountains. Stay at Hotel Beausite is a friendly, no-fuss option—family-run, great breakfast, and a view of the mountains to start your day. Grab dinner at Hüsi Bierhaus, a casual pub-style restaurant that serves burgers, fondue, and local favorites in a fun setting.

Day 5: Lauterbrunnen Valley – Waterfalls & Car-Free Villages

Aerial view of a picturesque alpine village with scattered houses, lush green hills, and majestic snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky. — A breathtaking view of the car-free village of Wengen, nestled amidst the lush green meadows and towering peaks of the Swiss Alps. The serene landscape captures the essence of tranquility and natural beauty.

Head into the Jungfrau Region for a full day of Alpine wonder. Visit Lauterbrunnen with its famous Staubbach Falls, then ride up to Mürren or Wengen—charming car-free villages perched on cliffs. Let the kids play in Mürren’s panoramic playground or explore one of the many easy walking trails. For the more adventurous, consider visiting Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe.

Day 6: Bern – Bears, Clock Towers & Einstein

Cobblestone street with Swiss flags and Zytglogge clock tower. People stroll, bikes parked, colorful flags, sunny sky in Bern. — Bustling street scene in the old town of Bern, with the iconic clock tower and vibrant flags lining the cobblestone path.

Take a short train ride to Bern, Switzerland’s capital. Visit the Bear Park, explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, and see the Zytglogge clock tower strike the hour. The Einstein Museum offers hands-on exhibits for curious minds, and the Bundesplatz fountains are great for a splash if the weather is warm. If you're staying the night, Kreuz Bern Modern City Hotel is a solid choice—super central, laid-back vibe, and family rooms that don’t feel cramped. Prefer a little luxury? Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa has you covered with spacious suites and spa perks. For dinner, Altes Tramdepot (my favorite spot) is a fun pick next to the Bear Park, serving local comfort food and house-brewed beer. If you're craving Italian, Lorenzini Ristorante is a charming spot with a kids’ menu and great pasta. And if you’re spending time around Gurten Park, Gurten – Huusbeiz is perfect for a relaxed, family-friendly bite with room for the kids to run around.

Day 7: Return to Geneva & Departure

Make your way back to Geneva for your flight. If time allows, squeeze in a final walk along the lake or a quick museum visit. The Natural History Museum and the Botanical Garden are both family-friendly and close to the city center.

💡 Family Tip: Maison Cailler gives out unlimited Swiss chocolate samples at the end of the tour. Enough said.

🍽️ Local Pick: Café du Soleil in Geneva does fondue the old-school way—book ahead and sit outside if the weather’s nice.

Day	Base	Highlights
1	Geneva	Arrive and explore the Jet d’Eau, lakeside parks, and Old Town. Take a relaxing lake cruise.
2	Montreux	Visit Chillon Castle and stroll the Lavaux Vineyards or the lakeside promenade.
3	Montreux	Ride the Chocolate Train to Gruyères for cheese tasting and Broc for the Cailler chocolate factory tour.
4	Interlaken	Take the GoldenPass train to Interlaken. Explore the lakefront or head up to a viewpoint.
5	Interlaken	Lauterbrunnen day trip with cable cars up to Mürren or Wengen. Optional Jungfraujoch Top of Europe visit.
6	Bern	Visit Bear Park, clock tower, Einstein Museum, and Bern’s charming Old Town.
7	Geneva	Return to Geneva. Enjoy your last lakeside moments before departure.

7 Days in Switzerland – Starting in Milan

Map of the Route

Map of Switzerland and northern Italy with a purple line marking a route from Varese to Interlaken, passing through Lucerne. — Scenic journey from Milan through Lugano to Lucerne, concluding in Interlaken.

Day 1: Arrive in Lugano – Lakeside Charm & Scenic Views

Overlooking a serene lake, with mountains in the background and a sunlit sky. Palms and a "Hotel Parking" sign in the foreground. — Sunlight shimmers on Lake Lugano as the sun sets behind the mountainous silhouette, creating a serene and picturesque view.

Arrive in Milan and make your way to Lugano, a beautiful lakeside city in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. Spend the afternoon strolling through Parco Ciani, enjoying the palm-lined promenade, and maybe take the funicular up Monte San Salvatore for sweeping lake and mountain views. Stay at LUGANODANTE is one of those places that makes travel easy—stylish, central, and well set up for families (even the staff are happy to see kids, which says a lot!). Wind down your day with pizza or pasta at Ristorante La Cucina di Alice and a scoop of gelato. It's important to mention that Ticino offers free public transport for guests staying overnight in most hotels, along with discounts on many tourist attractions.

Day 2: Melide – Swissminiatur & Gandria Boat Trip

Hillside town with pastel buildings along a lakeshore. Dense green forest covers the hillside under a partly cloudy sky, reflecting in water. — Nestled against a lush, green hillside, the charming lakeside town of Gandria reflects beautifully across calm waters.

Take a short train ride or drive to Melide and explore Swissminiatur, an outdoor model village featuring miniature versions of over 120 famous Swiss landmarks. In the afternoon, hop on a boat to Gandria, a tiny lakeside village with cobbled alleys and great spots for lunch by the water. Optionally, visit the Alprose Chocolate Museum in nearby Caslano. There's plenty more to explore in the area. Here's a summary of activities to enjoy in southern Ticino.

Day 3: Travel to Lucerne – Gotthard Panorama Express or Scenic Train

The serene River Reuss flows past the historic Lucerne Church, with the majestic Mount Pilatus rising in the background.

Head north from Lugano to Lucerne via the Gotthard Panorama route for a unique combination of boat and scenic train travel (or take a fast direct train through the Gotthard Base Tunnel (the longest train tunnel in the world). Arrive in Lucerne and enjoy a sunset stroll across Chapel Bridge before dinner in the Old Town. Stay at Hotel des Balances is a favorite for good reason—it’s got that historic charm, river views, and you can walk everywhere from the front door. For dinner, check out Zunfthausrestaurant Pfistern for traditional Swiss fare in a historic guild house setting.

Day 4: Mt. Pilatus or Rigi – Mountain Day

Day 5: Interlaken – Lake Brienz & Waterfalls

Red flowers in the foreground with colorful houses along a turquoise river. A bridge crosses the water, set against a mountain backdrop. — Charming houses line the vibrant blue waters of Interlaken, with a backdrop of majestic mountains and colorful flowers in the foreground.

Take a trip to Interlaken on the picturesque Lucerne to Interlaken Express, the entrance to the Bernese Oberland. Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Brienz or take a short trip to Giessbach Falls. If you're feeling active, there are easy lakeside walks and plenty of kid-friendly outdoor cafés. You could stay at Hotel Beausite, a chill, family-run place that feels a bit like home—with good breakfast and mountain views. For dinner, Hüsi Bierhaus is an easy win: think hearty food, burgers, and fondue in a relaxed setting the kids won’t mind hanging out in.Travel to Interlaken, the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Brienz or take a short trip to Giessbach Falls. If you're feeling active, there are easy lakeside walks and plenty of kid-friendly outdoor cafés.

Day 6: Jungfrau Region – Männlichen or Schilthorn

Mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks against a clear blue sky. Metal walkway with a mesh net overlooks green valleys below. — Spectacular panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys from Schilthorn.

Spend the day in the Jungfrau Region. Ride the cable car to Männlichen for an easy panoramic trail or take the gondola to Schilthorn for James Bond views. The Thrill Walk at Birg station adds extra excitement for adventurous families. If you’re still based in Interlaken, keep your dinner easy—maybe grab something local at Restaurant Stadthaus Unterseen where you’ll find Swiss comfort food in a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Or just stop at a lakeside café for something light and scenic.Spend the day in the Jungfrau Region. Ride the cable car to Männlichen for an easy panoramic trail or take the gondola to Schilthorn for James Bond views. The Thrill Walk at Birg station adds extra excitement for adventurous families.

Day 7: Return to Milan – Optional Duomo Visit

Make your way back to Milan by train or car. If you have time before your flight, visit the iconic Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and enjoy a final Italian gelato before heading home. Want one last meal before flying out? Luini near the Duomo is a local favorite for panzerotti—basically Italy’s answer to a hot pocket, and totally kid-approved.Make your way back to Milan by train or car. If you have time before your flight, visit the iconic Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and enjoy a final Italian gelato before heading home.

Day	Base	Highlights
1	Lugano	Arrive in Lugano. Stroll the lakeside promenade and take the funicular up Monte San Salvatore.
2	Lugano	Visit Swissminiatur in Melide. Optional boat ride to Gandria or trip to the Alprose Chocolate Museum.
3	Lucerne	Take the Gotthard Panorama route to Lucerne. Explore the Old Town and riverside promenade.
4	Lucerne	Ride up Mt. Pilatus or Titlis for snow fun and epic views. Return for a walk along Lake Lucerne.
5	Interlaken	Cruise Lake Brienz. Visit waterfalls or wander in the villages.
6	Interlaken	Ride up to Schilthorn or hike Männlichen trails. Optional Thrill Walk for adventurous families.
7	Milan	Travel back to Milan. If time allows, visit the Duomo before your flight.

💡 Family Tip: Swissminiatur is like a walkable version of all of Switzerland—small feet will thank you.

🍽️ Local Pick: LUGANODANTE in Lugano wins with stylish family rooms and staff that actually smile when kids are around.

Final Tip for your Switzerland Trip

As with all hotel bookings in Switzerland, I recommend doing your research on platforms like Booking.com or Tripadvisor—but before you reserve, check the hotel’s own website. You’ll often find a better deal directly, or added perks like breakfast, room upgrades, or free cancellation. Also, in many Swiss regions, staying in a hotel includes free access to local public transport—something that’s usually not included with Airbnb or apartment rentals.