Exploring Switzerland With Kids: Fun Activities And Destinations for Families

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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

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.

2. Lucerne

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.

3. Zermatt

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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