3 Day Switzerland Itinerary: Unveiling the Swiss Alps’ Hidden Gems

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.

A Fun-filled 3 Day Switzerland Itinerary for Families

Switzerland, 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.

Read more on our other Switzerland pages:

• Switzerland Family Vacation
• Wengen
• Mannlichen
• Jungfraujoch
• 2 Day Switzerland Itinerary
• Lucerne in Winter

Day 1: Explore Zurich’s Charms

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.

Next, 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.

Wrap 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 Zurich Card, you can enjoy unlimited second-class travel within the city by tram, bus, train, boat, and cable car.

Day 2: Adventure in Lucerne and Mount Pilatus

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.

Next, get your train tickets for an exciting trip to Mount Pilatus, the highest point in Lucerne. Reach the top via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. At the summit, be greeted by a majestic panorama of the highest mountains in central Switzerland.

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.

Day 3: The Jungfrau Region

On your final day, venture into the Bernese Oberland and our favorite excursion in Switzerland, the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Jungfrau region.

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.

Next, board a train to Wengen, a car-free village perched high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Finish your day with a trip to Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe. With the Swiss Pass, children under 16 accompanied by a parent travel free of charge. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, and let the kids play in the snow, even in summer! Check out our complete guide here to Jungfraujoch.

Alternate Day 1: A Day of Castles and Rivers in Schaffhausen

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.

Next, 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 Swiss Pass for unlimited travel and discounts.

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.

End 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.

Alternate Itinerary Day 2: Lucerne and Mount Rigi

Begin 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.

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.

Atop 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.

Here is a comprehensive guide to Lucerne.

Alternate Itinerary Day 3: The Jungfrau Region – Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Jungfraujoch

On 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.

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!

Next 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.

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.

However, if you have enough time for the journey to Jungfraujoch, take the train trip to Kleine Scheidegg and then on to Jungfraujoch

From 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.

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.

For a detailed account of Jungfraujoch, see our review here.

Bonus Extra Day: St. Moritz and The Glacier Express

St. 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.

St. 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.

After 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.

Worried 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.

For more on the Glacier Express, check out our guide.

Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass and the Regional Pass Bernese Oberland are excellent options for travelers planning to explore Switzerland using public transportation. Each pass offers a range of benefits and discounts, making it easy to decide which one suits your itinerary best.

Ultimately, the choice between the Swiss Travel Pass and the Regional Pass Bernese Oberland depends on your travel plans and the specific areas of Switzerland you wish to explore. If you plan to visit multiple regions throughout the country, the Swiss Travel Pass may be the better option.

However, if your focus is solely on the Bernese Oberland region, the Regional Pass Bernese Oberland could provide better value for your trip.

We ultimately went with the Oberland pass for our recent Switzerland trip, which focused mainly on Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Lucerne, with day trips to places like Jungfraujoch.

Swiss Trains

Switzerland is known for having one of the world’s most efficient and extensive train systems. The train network is a great way to get around the country and an excellent option for families traveling with kids. One of the main benefits of traveling by train in Switzerland is that it is safe, reliable, and eco-friendly. Additionally, many trains are equipped with features that make them especially kid-friendly.

Switzerland is known for having one of the world’s most efficient and extensive train systems. The train network is a great way to get around the country and an excellent option for families traveling with kids.

One of the main benefits of traveling by train in Switzerland is that it is safe, reliable, and eco-friendly.

Additionally, many trains are equipped with features that make them especially kid-friendly.

For example, some Swiss trains have playgrounds on the upper levels, which provide a fun and safe environment for kids to play and burn off energy during long journeys.

In this picture, the upper deck had a slide that our kids spent the whole two-hour ride playing with other kids on.

These play areas often contain slides, swings, and other toys to entertain children.

Some trains also have family compartments, which offer extra space and privacy for families traveling with young children.

Another great feature of Swiss trains is that they offer stunning views of the countryside and mountains.

Kids will love watching the changing scenery from the comfort of their seats, and parents will appreciate the opportunity to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Additionally, many Swiss trains offer onboard dining options, which are convenient for families traveling with kids who may need to eat or snack during their journey.

On this journey from Interlaken to Lucerne, the train featured a dining car, though full meals weren’t served.

Top Picks for an Overnight Stay

Looking for the perfect place for an overnight stay? Here are some luxury hotels that offer not just comfort but also fantastic views:

Best Places to Stay in Wengen

If you plan a trip to Wengen, you will want to stay in a comfortable and convenient hotel. Here are some of our top picks for the best places to stay in Wengen:

Best VRBOs and Other Hotels in Wengen:

Top Hotels in Lucerne for Families

Securing the ideal hotel for your family vacation is essential for creating lasting memories. Lucerne is a quaint small town, so staying in the Old Town allows you to enjoy picturesque scenery while still being just a 10-minute walk away from the train station.

Here are some top-rated hotels in Lucerne that cater to families, each with a rating of 8 out of 10 or higher on Booking.com:

For 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the best time to visit Switzerland? The summer months from June to September are generally considered the best time to visit Switzerland, especially for outdoor activities. However, if you love winter sports, the winter months from December to March can be equally exciting.

• What is the best way to travel in Switzerland? The Swiss Travel Pass is your best bet for unlimited travel on public transportation, including trains, buses, and even some boat trips. It also offers free travel to most mountain railways.

• Is the Swiss Half Fare Card a good idea? With the Swiss Half Fare Card, you can travel on most trains, buses, and boats at half price. It’s a good idea for those planning a lot of travel.

• What are some must-visit places in Zurich? The Old Town of Zurich, the Opera House, and Lake Zurich are some must-visit places. Don’t forget to take a boat trip on Lake Zurich!

• What about local restaurants? Switzerland is famous for its cheese and chocolates. You’ll find plenty of local restaurants in every city, serving traditional Swiss cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying fondue and raclette!

• Is it safe to travel to Switzerland during the peak season? Yes, it’s generally safe to travel to Switzerland during the peak season, but it’s always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories.

• What is the Swiss Museum of Transport? Located in Lucerne, the Swiss Museum of Transport is fascinating for all age groups. It showcases the development of transport and mobility by road, rail, and water, as well as in the air and outer space.

• What is the currency in Switzerland? Switzerland uses Swiss Francs. Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is always handy.

• What are some other interesting places to visit? Besides the places mentioned in our itinerary, Lake Geneva, St. Gallen, Rhine Falls, and Lake Brienz are worth visiting. And don’t miss the chance to ride the world’s steepest funicular to Mount Pilatus!

• What is the Swiss Museum of Transport? Located in Lucerne, the Swiss Museum of Transport is fascinating for all age groups. It showcases the development of transport and mobility by road, rail, and water, as well as in the air and outer space.

• What is the currency in Switzerland? Switzerland uses Swiss Francs. Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is always handy.

• What are some other interesting places to visit? Besides the places mentioned in our itinerary, Lake Geneva, St. Gallen, Rhine Falls, and Lake Brienz are worth visiting. And don’t miss the chance to ride the world’s steepest funicular to Mount Pilatus!

Conclusion

And there you have it! A 3-day itinerary packed with the best things Switzerland has to offer. From serene lakes and quaint towns to towering mountain peaks and exhilarating train rides, this trip is sure to leave you with memories for a lifetime. Remember, while we’ve suggested some best places and the best way to explore them, always leave some extra time for unexpected discoveries. After all, serendipity is the best travel guide!

If 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!

Switzerland’s charm lies in its diversity, its blend of the old and the new, and its ability to make you feel at home amidst the majestic Alps. So, pack your bags, and as the Swiss would say, “Auf Wiedersehen” until we meet again!

For more about Switzerland, explore our Switzerland page and Männlichen guide. Stay tuned for more exciting travel stories!