15 Traveling to Switzerland Tips for Adventurous Parents Ready to Conquer the Alps!
Planning a 15-day trip to Switzerland is like unwrapping a chocolate bar – exciting and full of delicious possibilities! This alpine wonderland, known for its four national languages, offers so much more than just picture-perfect landscapes and amazing cheese (though we’re definitely here for both).
From charming villages nestled between mountains to crystal-clear lakes that look like they’ve stepped out of a fairytale, Switzerland packs a serious punch for travelers with its incredibly scenic landscape .
The ideal 15-day Switzerland itinerary gives you enough time to experience the country’s diverse regions without feeling rushed, allowing you to enjoy both popular destinations like Lucerne and Zermatt while also discovering hidden gems off the tourist path.
We’ve spent countless hours researching the best routes and experiences so you don’t have to stress about the planning part.
Whether you’re dreaming of hiking in the Alps, sampling Swiss chocolate, or riding scenic train routes that will make your Instagram followers green with envy, we’ve got you covered with this ultimate switzerland travel guide and Swiss adventure!
1) Pack a universal adapter for Swiss outlets
Hey mama, we all know the panic of not being able to charge our phones abroad – talk about a travel nightmare!
Switzerland uses Type J plug adapters, which are different from those in the US.
We absolutely love adapters that include USB ports for charging multiple devices at once.
Some Swiss travel adapters, along with the best chocolate, can be found in a swiss museum with up to 4 outlets and 3 USB charging ports!
Regular European adapters won’t work in Switzerland (we learned this the hard way!). You’ll need a specific Swiss plug adapter that works with Type J outlets found in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Rwanda.
2) Sample Swiss Chocolate in Zurich
OMG, if you love chocolate and swiss history like we do, Zurich is practically heaven!
We couldn’t believe our taste buds when we visited the Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg, just outside Zurich.
This place is seriously a chocolate lover’s dream come true! You can sample delicious treats and even create your own chocolate masterpiece. How cool is that?
The chocolate shopping in Zurich is next level. We went a bit crazy buying gifts for friends (and okay, mostly for ourselves!).
Pro tip: Don’t miss the airport chocolate shops if you’re flying out. They’re totally allowed in your hand luggage and make the perfect last-minute souvenirs!
3) Explore the majestic Swiss Alps
The Swiss Alps are truly a breathtaking wonder that we just can’t get enough of!
When visiting Switzerland, you absolutely have to experience these majestic mountains with their rugged peaks and stunning valleys.
We love taking cable car rides over the Alps – it’s such a thrilling way to see the amazing views!
The crystal-clear lakes nestled between mountains are perfect for those Instagram-worthy pics we all crave.
For the adventure seekers among us, why not try paragliding above the Swiss Alps? Don’t worry – you’ll be safely strapped in with an expert instructor, even if you’re a total beginner!
4) Take a scenic train ride on the Glacier Express
OMG, we absolutely have to talk about the Glacier Express! This incredible journey is known as the “slowest express train in the world” and it’s sooo worth every minute!
The panoramic trip takes about 8 hours and connects Zermatt with St. Moritz.
You guys, the views are seriously jaw-dropping! We’re talking snow-capped mountains and deep valleys that will have you glued to the windows.
Did you know the train crosses 291 bridges and goes through 91 tunnels? Talk about an engineering marvel! The whole experience feels like you’re literally traveling through a postcard.
Pack some snacks, charge your camera, and get ready for one of the most stunning train rides we’ve ever experienced. Trust us, this is Swiss sightseeing at its absolute best!
5) Visit the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall
OMG, you guys! We’re obsessed with the Rhine Falls – it’s Europe’s largest waterfall and it’s absolutely breathtaking!
Located near Schaffhausen in Switzerland, this natural wonder will totally blow your mind.
When we visited, we could literally feel the roar and vibration of the water through our entire bodies! It’s such a powerful experience that you just can’t miss on your Swiss adventure.
The waterfall is about 150 meters wide and 23 meters high with impressive water volume that creates the most Instagram-worthy views, all while you enjoy the beauty for just a few swiss franc ! We’re not kidding – your followers will be so jealous!
You can take a quick train ride from Zurich (just one hour!) which makes it perfect for a day trip if that’s where you’re staying.
6) Stay overnight in a cozy Alpine chalet
We’re obsessed with staying in a Swiss Alpine chalet – it’s basically the ultimate Switzerland experience, just like the german traditions ! Nothing beats cuddling up by a crackling fireplace after a day of mountain adventures.
The Swiss Alps offer amazing cabin options for every budget and style.
Some chalets are rustic and traditional, while others are modern with all the luxuries we crave.
We recently saw a friend’s photos from her February stay at a fantastic chalet that was super cozy and clean. Most chalets come with that picture-perfect wooden architecture and stunning mountain views.
Many villages like Villars-sur-Ollon have charming chalets just waiting for your visit!
7) Visit the medieval city of Lucerne
Lucerne is seriously one of the most charming spots in Switzerland, representing its national languages that we absolutely adore! This gateway to central Switzerland feels like stepping into a fairy tale with its gorgeous medieval vibes.
When you wander through the Luzern Altstadt (Old Town), don’t forget to look up! The buildings have amazing murals and architectural details that’ll make your jaw drop.
We recommend taking a mini tour through the city to soak in all the medieval goodness and learn about its official languages . It’s perfect for family photos and making memories your kiddos will treasure forever!
8) Try raclette and fondue, Swiss cheese delights
Switzerland is basically cheese heaven, ladies! We couldn’t imagine visiting without diving face-first into their melty cheese traditions.
Fondue is our absolute fave – just picture dipping bread into a pot of gooey, bubbling cheese while enjoying mountain views!
Then there’s raclette – OMG! It’s cheese that’s melted and scraped right onto your plate, usually served with potatoes and pickles. This deliciousness is originally from Valais but you’ll find it everywhere.
Want the ultimate cheese experience? We recommend taking the actual Swiss “Cheese Train” for a fondue-filled adventure through gorgeous countryside!
9) Dip your toes in Lake Geneva’s serene waters
Let’s talk about one of Switzerland’s most gorgeous spots – Lake Geneva!
This stunning lake is actually the largest in Switzerland, stretching an impressive 45 miles across the landscape.
We’re obsessed with how magical it looks!
There’s something so refreshing about taking off your hiking boots and dipping your tired toes into those crystal-clear waters.
Trust us, after exploring Swiss mountains, your feet will thank you!
The views are absolutely to die for too!
With the majestic Alps as your backdrop and sparkling waters at your feet, it’s basically the perfect Instagram moment that’s also good for the soul.
We love how Lake Geneva is framed by picturesque landscapes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. So worth the trip!
10) Check out the vibrant cultural scene in Basel
Basel is a total cultural hotspot!
We’re obsessed with the city’s mix of splendid theatrical performances, high-class ballets and concerts that range from classical to pop music.
Want to feel fancy for a day?
Catching a show at Theater Basel is such a fun way to experience the local arts scene.
Trust us, you’ll feel super cultured!
With over 40 museums and exhibition centers, Basel delivers a serious dose of culture no matter what you’re into.
We absolutely love wandering through Basel’s Old Town to soak up all the artistic vibes!
11) Book a cable car ride up to Jungfraujoch
Oh mama, you can’t miss this epic adventure when visiting Switzerland!
We absolutely love the Eiger Express tricable gondola that whisks you from Grindelwald Terminal to the Eiger Glacier station in just 15 minutes—talk about a time-saver!
From there, you’ll hop on a cogwheel train to reach Jungfraujoch—the famous “Top of Europe.”
The entire journey only takes about 45 minutes now. So worth it!
Tickets run about CHF 63 with the special Jungfraujoch Top Ticket, which is honestly a steal for this bucket-list experience.
We recommend booking in advance because this popular spot gets busy!
12) Snap pics of the iconic Matterhorn peak
Oh my goodness, is there anything more breathtaking than the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountain areas ?
This jaw-dropping mountain is Switzerland’s superstar, and we’re totally obsessed!
The best spot to capture this beauty is in Zermatt, where you’ll find stunning mountain views that’ll make your Instagram followers drool.
We recommend getting up early for that perfect golden hour shot!
Stellisee lake offers picturesque reflections of the peak in still waters. So dreamy!
For serious photographers, try visiting at dawn or dusk when the lighting is magical. Zermatt has five amazing photo spots that are perfect for capturing this iconic peak!
13) Cruise on Lake Lucerne for breathtaking views
We’re totally obsessed with the magical experience of cruising on Lake Lucerne!
It’s one of those must-do activities when visiting Switzerland that’ll have you snapping pics non-stop.
For just 299 CHF, you can get the Lake Lucerne Pass and enjoy boat rides all year long. How amazing is that?!
The cruises offer stunning views of Lucerne’s twinkling lights, the magnificent Meggenhorn Castle, and even the Richard Wagner Museum.
We love hanging out on the lake-level terrace to feel that refreshing mist on our faces!
With a choice of morning or afternoon departures, you’ll have plenty of flexibility to fit this dreamy experience into your Swiss adventure.
14) Saunter through Interlaken’s charming streets
Interlaken is seriously one of the most adorable spots in Switzerland, especially for cross country skiing !
We could spend hours just wandering through its charming streets and soaking up the Swiss vibes.
The town itself is super cute with its traditional architecture and mountain backdrop.
You’ll find plenty of shops selling everything from chocolates to watches. Hello, souvenirs!
While strolling around, we love popping into the local cafés for some hot chocolate or grabbing some Swiss chocolate as a treat.
Trust us, it’s worth every calorie!
What makes Interlaken extra special is its unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. The views are absolutely breathtaking!
15) Visit the United Nations Office in Geneva
Okay, we’ve saved one of the coolest Geneva attractions for last!
The Palais des Nations is absolutely worth checking out if you’re into international relations or just want to see where world-changing decisions happen.
You can take a guided tour of this impressive building and learn all about the UN’s work.
The tours are super informative, and we were totally geeking out over all the important meetings that have taken place here!
Getting there is easy from downtown Geneva.
Just hop on bus lines 8, 20, or 60 and get off at “Appia” stop.
Pro tip: bring your passport for security!
The building sits in beautiful Ariana Park with gorgeous views of Lake Geneva. We couldn’t stop taking photos!
Traveling With Kids: Switzerland Basics
Switzerland is one of our favorite family destinations, especially with its convenient train stations . The country offers amazing infrastructure and a welcoming attitude toward children that makes traveling with kids so much easier than you might expect.
Navigating Public Transport
Swiss public transportation is a dream come true for families!
Trains, buses, and boats are clean, punctual, and incredibly kid-friendly.
The best part? Children under 6 travel completely FREE throughout Switzerland. For kids aged 6-15, you can get a Family Card that allows them to travel for free when accompanied by a parent.
We highly recommend getting the Half Fare card for adults if you’re staying more than a few days. It’ll cut your transportation costs in half!
Most transit hubs have elevators and ramps, making it easy to navigate with strollers.
Many trains even have dedicated family sections with play areas or extra space.
Don’t worry about tight connections! The Swiss system runs like clockwork, and there’s usually plenty of time to transfer between connections.
Understanding Swiss Culture
Swiss people adore children and you’ll find the culture surprisingly accommodating to families.
Most restaurants offer kid-friendly options and many have amazing playgrounds nearby or play areas inside, with help from local authorities .
Children are expected to behave in public, but there’s a relaxed attitude about the normal noises and energy of kids. Just be mindful in quieter settings!
We love that many Swiss attractions cater specifically to families.
From hands-on chocolate factory experiences to farm stays where kids can sleep in barns, there are so many unique adventures.
Swiss mountain regions like the Jungfrau area offer family-friendly hiking trails and activities that don’t require intense trekking—perfect for little legs!
Remember to pack layers for the kids. The mountain weather can change quickly, and you’ll want them comfortable for all your adventures.
Best Times To Visit For Families
Planning a family trip to Switzerland? Timing is everything! We’ve done the research to help you pick the perfect season for your Swiss adventure that balances good warmer weather with exciting family activities.
Weather Considerations
Switzerland’s climate varies dramatically depending on when you visit. For families, late September to early October offers the highest chance of sunny days. This means less time cooped up in hotels and more outdoor fun on the beautiful hiking trails !
Spring (March to May) is absolutely magical with mild weather and blooming flowers. Your kids will be mesmerized by the colorful Alpine meadows! Plus, there are fewer crowds during this shoulder season – a huge win when traveling with little ones.
Summer (June-August) brings pleasant temperatures but can get crowded and expensive. If your schedule allows, aim for early June before peak season hits full swing.
Winter trips work well if your family loves skiing, but be prepared for chilly temps and early sunsets!
Family-Friendly Festivals
Switzerland comes alive with kid-friendly celebrations throughout the year!
The Fasnacht Spring Carnival (February/March) features colorful parades and costumes, just like an exciting boat tour along the lakes! Your little ones will be wide-eyed with wonder.
During summer, don’t miss the Montreux Jazz Festival. Despite its name, this festival offers family-friendly concerts and activities along beautiful Lake Geneva.
Many Swiss cities host summer festivals with puppet shows, face painting, and interactive performances, which are often easily accessible from gas stations .
If you’re visiting in August, the Swiss National Day (August 1st) is a must-see!
Your family will love the impressive fireworks displays, parades, and traditional foods.
In winter, the magical Christmas markets transform Swiss towns into winter wonderlands.
Hot chocolate stands, twinkling lights, and festive activities make these markets perfect for creating lasting family memories!
