\nPlanning a Switzerland family vacation? It's been one of our favorite family trips.
Planning a Switzerland family vacation? It's been one of our favorite family trips. While you could spend weeks here, here's a 3-day Switzerland itinerary to give you a taste of this beautiful country! Get ready to be bowled over by nature's grandeur as we explore the best spots in Switzerland in just three days. As we embark on this adventure, you'll uncover the magic of the Swiss Alps, Lake Lucerne's serenity, and the Bernese Oberland's allure.
\n\n\n\nA Fun-filled 3 Day Switzerland Itinerary for Families
\n\n\n\nSwitzerland, with its most beautiful places and picture-perfect landscapes, is a playground for families with kids. Here's the best three-day itinerary that will surely be a hit with the little ones.
\n\n\n\n\n\nDay 1: Explore Zurich's Charms
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Kick off your first day in the bustling city of Zurich. Start your journey with a visit to the Swiss National Museum. Here, kids can take a guided tour and learn about Switzerland's history in a fun, interactive way.
\n\n\n\nNext, let the kids burn off some energy at Zurich's Zoologischer Garten, or Zoo Zurich, home to over 2,000 species of animals. Don't miss the Masoala Rainforest Hall; it's like stepping into a mini Madagascar.
\n\n\n\nWrap up your day with a relaxing boat trip on Lake Zürich. The views are splendid, and the cool breeze is particularly refreshing if you visit in the summer. Remember, with a
Day 2: Adventure in Lucerne and Mount Pilatus
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On the second day, take a short train ride to the charming small town of Lucerne. Visit the iconic Chapel Bridge and the medieval castle of Museggmauer. The nine towers offer stunning views of the city, lake, and mountains.
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Next, get your
The mountain also boasts a large playground and the biggest rope park in Central Switzerland. Let the kids have a blast while you soak in the spectacular views.
\n\n\n\nDay 3: The Jungfrau Region
\n\n\n\nOn your final day, venture into the Bernese Oberland and our favorite excursion in Switzerland, the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Jungfrau region.
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Start with a scenic train journey through mountain passes to the quaint town of Lauterbrunnen. From here, visit Trummelbach Falls, a series of impressive waterfalls inside a mountain. It's a short bus ride away, and the sight of the roaring falls is a thrill for kids and adults alike.
\n\n\n\nNext, board a train to Wengen, a car-free village perched high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFinish your day with a trip to Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe. With the
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Alternate Day 1: A Day of Castles and Rivers in Schaffhausen
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWould you prefer a smaller town than the large city of Zurich? Embark on a day of adventure by hopping on a train to Schaffhausen, just north of Zurich. This small town is known for its beautifully preserved medieval castle, Munot, which offers panoramic views of the old town and the mighty Rhine.
\n\n\n\nNext, it's time to explore the grandeur of nature at the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe. A guided tour will take you close to the roaring waters, an experience that will thrill the kids. Remember to use your
The Adventure Park at the Rhine Falls is great for kids to let off steam. With rope courses and ziplines, it's a perfect spot for some family fun.
\n\n\n\nEnd the day with a leisurely stroll in the old town, where kids can learn about the rich history of the region. Enjoy some delicious Swiss cuisine in one of the many family-friendly local restaurants in the area.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlternate Itinerary Day 2: Lucerne and Mount Rigi
\n\n\n\nBegin your Switzerland itinerary with a jaunt to the charming Swiss city of Lucerne. The city's heart, the city center, is filled with quaint medieval buildings, including the iconic Chapel Bridge. The bridge, arguably one of the city's best views, spans Lake Lucerne and offers captivating panoramic views.
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Once you've soaked up the city's historic charm, it's time for a boat ride. Board a boat at the Lake Lucerne boat station for a serene trip to Vitznau. From here, the cogwheel train awaits to whisk you up Mount Rigi. Revel in the scenic train ride, taking in the spectacular views of the lake, city, and mountain peaks.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAtop Mount Rigi, relish the breathtaking panorama before taking a short hike. You'll be surprised how much you can cover in a little time. Once you've filled the fresh alpine air, head back down via an aerial cable car to Weggis and from there, a boat back to Lucerne.
\n\n\n\nHere is a comprehensive guide to Lucerne.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlternate Itinerary Day 3: The Jungfrau Region – Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Jungfraujoch
\n\n\n\nOn the third day of your Switzerland itinerary, we're keeping it in the same area as the first itinerary, taking the train to the top of Europe, the Jungfraujoch. But first, we'll visit the Jungfrau region's enchanting villages - Lauterbrunnen and Wengen.
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The scenic train ride from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen presents you with the pristine beauty of the Bernese Oberland. Famed for its 72 waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is a perfect place for nature enthusiasts. A short walk from the train station leads to amazing views of Staubbach Falls, which is as mesmerizing as it gets!
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNext up, catch the mountain train to Wengen. We spent 3 nights in this car-free village which offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. Don't forget to soak in the breathtaking views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley and surrounding mountain peaks.
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If you're short on time, take the cable car up to Mannlichen. Stand on the cable car's rooftop balcony for some amazing views! Check out our video below, or read more here.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHowever, if you have enough time for the journey to Jungfraujoch, take the train trip to Kleine Scheidegg and then on to Jungfraujoch.
\n\n\n\nFrom Wengen, the train journey to Kleine Scheidegg is simply awe-inspiring. With its picturesque landscapes and the imposing north face of the Eiger, it's a sight to behold. From Kleine Scheidegg, it's a cogwheel train ride to the highest railway station in Europe, the Jungfraujoch.
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Referred to as the "Top of Europe," Jungfraujoch offers a blend of snow-clad landscapes, adventure activities, and panoramic views. Spend time visiting the Ice Palace, observing the Sphinx Observatory, or simply marveling at the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor a detailed account of Jungfraujoch, see our review here.
\n\n\n\nBonus Extra Day: St. Moritz and The Glacier Express
\n\n\n\nSt. Moritz is too far to fit in a 3 day itinerary with the other options, but it can be a great addition or alternative. Starting from St. Moritz, the Glacier Express train journey promises to be a visual treat with its stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
\n\n\n\nSt. Moritz, itself, is a great place to spend some time. Nestled in the Engadine Valley, this town offers a blend of glamour, lifestyle, sports, and nature. Explore the town's main street for various restaurants and luxury hotels, or take a short stop at the famous Badrutt's Palace Hotel.
\n\n\n\nAfter exploration, head to the train station and hop aboard the Glacier Express. The journey offers a unique perspective of the Swiss landscape, with its vast mountain views, quaint villages, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
\n\n\n\nWorried about the extra cost of this ride? Good thing you have the Swiss Half Fare Card, which offers a 50% discount on most mountain railways and regular trains, ensuring you have enough time and resources to enjoy the experience.
\n\n\n\nFor more on the Glacier Express, check out our guide.
\n\n\n\n\n\nTop Picks for an Overnight Stay
\n\n\n\nLooking for the perfect place for an overnight stay? Here are some luxury hotels that offer not just comfort but also fantastic views:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor an alternative, check out our review of Swiss Holiday Park, a hotel and destination all in one that's been a favorite of our kids.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConclusion
\n\n\n\nIf you have limited time, or want to make a day trip, you can always customize this itinerary to suit your needs. But trust us, once you get a taste of Switzerland's beauty, you'd wish you had more than just three travel days!
\n\n\n\nFor more about Switzerland, explore our Switzerland page and Männlichen guide. Stay tuned for more exciting travel stories!
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