
Exploring Switzerland with Kids: A Summer Holiday Adventure
Switzerland is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes and alpine adventures but also for its family-friendly attractions and activities. If you’re spending some or all of your summer here, Switzerland offers many options to keep the young ones entertained and create lasting memories for the entire family. Here’s a guide to some things to do with children in Switzerland during the summer holidays.
1. Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne
The Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne is a haven for curious minds. With interactive exhibits, simulators, and a planetarium, kids can learn about transportation history in an engaging and hands-on way. The museum also features a cinema showing kid-friendly films and a large outdoor area with playgrounds and picnic spots.
2. Explore the Adventure Parks
Switzerland is dotted with adventure parks that cater to children of all ages. Grindelwald’s Pfingstegg Adventure Park offers thrilling toboggan runs and zip lines with stunning views of the Eiger mountain. Forest Fun Park in Zermatt has rope courses designed specifically for younger children, ensuring safety while providing a taste of adventure.
3. Enjoy Lake Activities
Switzerland’s lakes provide a perfect setting for a variety of water-based activities. Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Lucerne are popular spots for swimming
g, paddleboarding, and boat rides. Many of these lakes have designated family-friendly beaches with shallow waters, play areas, and facilities for a relaxing day by the water.
4. Take a Scenic Train Ride
The scenic train rides in Switzerland are a fantastic way to see the country’s picturesque landscapes without the hassle of driving. The Glacier Express and the Bernina Express offer routes that pass through stunning alpine scenery, and children will be fascinated by the tunnels, bridges, and breathtaking views.
5. Discover Swiss Miniature in Melide
Swiss Miniature in Melide, near Lugano, is an open-air museum featuring detailed replicas of Switzerland’s most famous buildings and landmarks at a scale of 1:25. Children can wander through this miniature world, recognizing places they have visited or plan to visit, and even enjoy a ride on the mini-train that circles the park.
6. Visit the Papiliorama in Kerzers
Papiliorama is a tropical garden home to hundreds of exotic butterflies. Located in Kerzers, this enchanting place allows children to walk through a butterfly house, observe various species, and learn about their life cycles. The attraction also includes a nocturnal exhibit and a petting zoo, making it a delightful experience for kids.
7. Explore the Aletsch Glacier
For a unique educational experience, take your children to the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. Guided tours are available that explain the glacier’s formation and the importance of preserving it. The nearby Jungfraujoch, also known as the Top of Europe, offers stunning views and an ice palace that kids will love.
8. Adventure in the Jungfrau Region
The Jungfrau Region offers countless outdoor activities suitable for families. This area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking trails with panoramic views to thrilling cable car rides. The themed trails, such as the Marmot Trail or Flower Trail, are especially popular with children, providing both education and fun.
9. Have Fun at the Aquaparc in Le Bouveret
Aquaparc in Le Bouveret is a waterpark with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers that guarantee a day full of splashes and laughter. The park has sections specifically designed for younger children, ensuring safety and fun for all age groups.
10. Visit the Zoo and Masoala Rainforest in Zurich
Zurich Zoo is a fantastic destination for families, offering a chance to see a wide variety of animals in well-designed habitats. The Masoala Rainforest within the zoo is a standout attraction, recreating a Madagascan rainforest environment that children can explore, learning about biodiversity and conservation.
11. Experience the Charm of Gruyères
A trip to Gruyères offers a blend of history and gastronomy that both parents and kids can enjoy. Visit the medieval Gruyères Castle and learn about Swiss history, then head to the cheese factory to see how the famous Gruyère cheese is made. Don’t forget to try some delicious Swiss chocolate in the local shops.
12. Go on a Treasure Hunt in Geneva
Geneva offers various themed treasure hunts that take children through the city’s historical sites and parks. These hunts are designed to be educational and entertaining, providing clues and puzzles that keep kids engaged while exploring the city’s landmarks.
13. Go Sailing in Zug, Aegeri, Schwyz or Luzern
Take advantage of the family holiday pass on the Zugersee and the Famili Aegerisee now! ![]()
During the summer holidays in the cantons of Zug, Schwyz and Lucerne you can spend the full sea pass with your family, experience cool excursions and go on a mystery or adventure ride with the brave knight Red Stocking or the Little Water Witch. ![]()
Get your https://ow.ly/LTCK50SwLbK holiday pass: Zugersee Schifffahrt
Get your https://ow.ly/BlpM50SwLbL holiday pass: Ägerisee Schifffahrt
Conclusion
Whether your children are budding historians, adventure seekers, or nature lovers, something in Switzerland will capture their imagination and ensure a fun-filled time. Bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories with your children.