Trains, lakes, mountains, zoos and museums: discover how to visit Switzerland with the family, the best activities with children and our practical tips.
Safe, clean and easy to travel by train, Switzerland is an ideal family destination. Between accessible mountains, swimmable lakes, animal parks and interactive museums, there is no shortage of activities with children. This guide gathers the best ideas for visiting Switzerland with the family, by age and by region.
Why Switzerland is perfect for families
- Safety and cleanliness: a safe country, easy to get around.
- Panoramic trains: the journey itself is an adventure for children.
- Accessible nature: mountains, lakes and family-friendly trails.
- Free for children: under-6s travel free, and with the Junior Card accompanied children travel for free.
Mountains and nature with children
Many peaks are reached effortlessly by cogwheel train or cable car. Pilatus and the Rigi near Lucerne, the Titlis with its year-round snow, or themed trails such as the Globi trail in Lenzerheide delight the youngest. Many resorts offer mountain playgrounds and summer toboggan runs.
Lakes and waterside activities
In summer, the Swiss lakes are ideal for family swimming thanks to their beaches and public baths (Badi). Lake Zurich, Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne or Lake Lugano offer cruises, pedal boats and supervised beaches. A mini boat cruise is always a hit with children.
Zoos, parks and museums for children
- Zurich Zoo: with its Masoala rainforest hall and the elephant park.
- Swiss Museum of Transport (Lucerne): trains, aircraft, planetarium, the country's most visited museum.
- Swiss Vapeur Parc (Le Bouveret): miniature trains to ride on.
- Conny-Land amusement park and animal parks: ideal outings in good weather.
- Chocolate house and cheese dairies: tasty visits enjoyed by all.
Getting around and eating as a family
The train remains the most practical option: comfortable, punctual and with family carriages on some lines. For meals, many restaurants offer children's menus and high chairs. To find a suitable address, explore the restaurants category, book a table via the Reservation page, or browse businesses by city.
Practical tips for a successful stay
Consider the Junior Card and the Children's Co-travelcard from SBB, both very advantageous. Pack clothing suited to mountain weather and alternate quiet activities (museums, cruises) with more active ones (hiking, swimming). Cities like Lucerne, Bern and Zurich combine culture and nature on a child-friendly scale.
Plan your stay with TOP SUISSE
To go further, read our guides what to do in Switzerland, the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland and what to do in Lucerne, or browse all the categories.
Frequently asked questions
Is Switzerland suitable for families with children?
Yes, Switzerland is one of the most family-friendly destinations: safe, clean, easy to travel by train, with many nature activities (lakes, mountains) and museums, zoos and parks designed for children.
Do children travel free by train in Switzerland?
Children under 6 travel free. With the SBB Junior Card (or Children's Co-travelcard), children aged 6 to 16 accompanied by a parent travel for free on most journeys.
What activities can you do in Switzerland with children?
Mountain trips (Pilatus, Rigi, Titlis), swimming in the lakes, boat cruises, Zurich Zoo, the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, miniature train parks and chocolate factory visits.
When is the best time to visit Switzerland with the family?
Summer (June to August) is ideal for lakes, hiking and outdoor activities. Winter suits families who enjoy snow and skiing. Spring and autumn offer a good compromise with fewer crowds.
