13 Amazing Towns and Villages To Visit With Your Family In Switzerland

A young girl looks out toward a mountain while embarking on the First Cliff Walk near Tissot, Switzerland.
Photo Courtesy: Lia Khan

If you’re looking for a breathtakingly beautiful place to take a vacation, look no further than these towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland. With its soaring mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque villages, this family-friendly European country is sure to enchant your kids. And there’s plenty for them to do, from hiking and skiing in the Alps to exploring charming medieval towns. From the quaint village of Zermatt, boasting the iconic Matterhorn Mountain as its backdrop, to the historic town center of Lugano, you’ll never forget a trip to this awe-inspiring country. Plus, kids will love the delicious Swiss chocolate! No matter where you end up on your travels, this list of 13 Amazing Towns and Villages To Visit With Your Family In Switzerland has some great suggestions on things to do and see. Keep reading to pack your bags for an unforgettable family trip! 

Zermatt

A woman's hand holds a Toblerone over the Matterhorn to complete the image of the mountain near Zermatt, one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland.
Photo Courtesy: Lia Khan

Zermatt is a beautiful town in Switzerland that is perfect for families! Set against the backdrop of the iconic Matterhorn Mountain, it has something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to luxury seekers. Though it’s a famous hub for winter skiing, Zermatt also offers mild-weather adventures at other times of the year, especially in the summer. This makes it the ideal destination for families who want to see the scenic Swiss Alps! 

From hiking to biking, outdoorsy families will love exploring the beautiful valley. A few easy trails for kids include 5 Lakes Walk, the Botanical Trail, and the Marmot Trail. Another popular way to see Zermatt as a family is by riding the Gornergrat Railway to the top of Gornergrat Mountain, which provides gorgeous views of the Matterhorn. During the summer, kids can also go for a swim in one of the many lakes or rivers. In fact, Lake Leisee is home to the calm Zermatt Beach!

When you want a bite to eat, stroll the main street, Bahnhofstrasse. It’s filled with kid-friendly restaurants, trendy boutiques, and luxury hotels. Zermatt is also home to several great hotels. Families can stay at the quaint but luxurious Alpen Resort Hotel or the more family-friendly Hotel Walliserhof. Finally, families with young kids (under 9 years old), may want to consider the Wolli Card when visiting Zermatt for extra family fun and benefits.

Stay cool this summer at one of the 17 Best Mild Weather European Destinations For A Family Summer Vacation

St. Moritz

If you’re looking for an amazing town to visit with your family in Switzerland, look no further than St. Moritz! This picturesque town is located in the Swiss Alps and is well-known for its winter sports. However, there is plenty to do in St Moritz all year round, thanks to its impeccable climate, which boasts over 300 days of sunshine. Plus, if you’re planning a visit to Zermatt, you can also take the Glacier Express to St. Moritz. This famous train travels through some of the most stunning scenery in the country to reveal glaciers and snow-capped mountains! 

Alongside picturesque scenery, St. Moritz also offers families a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions. In the winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the slopes, go ice skating, or take a ride on the famous Bobsleigh track. In the summer, go hiking (Schellenursliweg or the Blumenweg are great options), biking, play golf, or lounge by Lake St. Moritz, a fantastic place for swimming and water sports. Families can also take a cable car ride to the top of Piz Nair and hike back down if they’re feeling adventurous!

Then, don’t miss visiting the Segantini Museum, which houses paintings by the famous Swiss artist Giovanni Segantini. ​​Of course, you can also just relax in one of the many parks or playgrounds in St. Moritz. For a sweet treat, don’t forget to try some authentic Swiss chocolate from Hanselmann! 

Book your stay in St. Moritz with Expedia or Hotels.com here!

Lauterbrunnen

Situated between rocky cliffs and towering mountain peaks, Lauterbrunnen offers families a unique Swiss landscape. This charming village is located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland and is home to 72 waterfalls. The glacial waters of the Lauterbrunnen valley flow into the river Trümmelbach, which has one of Europe’s largest underground waterfalls. No wonder it’s one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland! 

To see elegant chalet-style houses set against the backdrop of the roaring Staubbach Falls, explore Lauterbrunnen Village with your kids. Many hiking trails wind through the valley and offer stunning views of the waterfalls. When you’re tired of all the walking, relax in one of the many natural pools across the landscape. For even better views, you can also take a cable car, either to Mürren on The Lauterbrunnen–Mürren Mountain Railway. Or from Stechelberg Village to Schilthorn Mountain to overlook the Bernese Alps. Kids and adults alike will love seeing the magnificent valley below! Or, enjoy an underground adventure at nearby Trummelbach Falls, a series of 10 waterfalls cascading through a mountain. Lastly, don’t forget to visit a chocolate factory in Lauterbrunnen!

If you’re looking for a family-friendly place to stay in Lauterbrunnen, we recommend the Hotel Bären. The hotel has a playground and a kids’ club, so your children will never be bored. Plus, the hotel is located just a short walk from the cable car station, making it easy to explore all that Lauterbrunnen has to offer.

Enjoy sun, sand, and so much more at these 16 Exciting European Beach Destinations For Families

La Gruyère 

The iconic castle atop a hill in Gruyere, Switzerland.
Photo Courtesy: Kurt Andersson

La Gruyère is a lovely district to visit with kids, offering four main touristic sites: Bulle, Charmey, Gruyères, and Moléson. Firstly, Gruyères is a great place to visit with kids because there is so much for them to do and see. Located in the canton of Fribourg in Switzerland, this small town is best known for its cheese production and its medieval castle. Families will feel like they’ve entered a storybook fairytale as they wander the walkable streets of this adorable, pedestrian-only destination, visit the small playground and park where children can play, and enjoy the signature fondue. However, there is much more to Gruyères than just cheese!

In the summer, families can explore the Gruyères Castle ruins, go for a hike in the mountains, or take a cable car up to the top of one of the nearby peaks. The views are stunning, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife! In the winter, there’s even a small ski hill that’s perfect for beginner skiers and snowboarders. Of course, one of the most popular activities is to visit the Le Gruyère AOP Cheese Factory. Kids will love learning about how cheese is made and seeing the process firsthand.

Finally, no trip to La Gruyère would be complete without a visit to the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory, located in the city of Moléson. Here, kids can learn about how chocolate is made and even sample some of the delicious creations. There’s also a chocolate train that runs from Montreux to Gruyères. It’s sure to be a hit with the kids!

Gstaad 

If you’re looking for a family-friendly and fun destination in Switzerland, Gstaad is a great option. This picturesque town is located in the Bernese Oberland region and is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. There are plenty of things to keep kids entertained in Gstaad, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and biking in the summer. There are also several family-friendly hotels and restaurants in town. It’s no surprise Gstaad is a popular option for families who want to enjoy the outdoors and experience a traditional Swiss village! 

The Adventure Playground at Park Gstaad Hotel is a great option for families with young children. The park has several different play areas, including a water park, trampolines, and zip lines, more. Older kids will enjoy the Alpine Coaster, which is a toboggan ride that winds through the mountains. Families can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride or go hiking together in the beautiful Swiss Alps. For an affordable and quick way to see the landscape, take a ride on the historic Gstaad-Zweisimmen cogwheel train. And don’t forget to visit the Gstaad Palace Hotel, where you can tour the grounds and see the beautiful flowers in the gardens. There are also several museums in Gstaad geared towards children, such as the Landschaft Museum. Other kid-friendly attractions include toy shops, a carousel, and a petting zoo. 

Look for a top-ranked homestay in Gstaad here with VRBO!

Lucerne

Two girls stand along a fence looking at the iconic lake and bridge in Lucerne, one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland.
Photo Courtesy: Lia Khan

Lucerne is surely one of the best towns or villages to visit with your family in Switzerland! It’s known for its stunning scenery, interesting history, and many activities that are perfect for families. From the beautiful old city center, which has narrow streets and colorful, tall buildings, to the nearby mountains, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The town is also located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, which is a great place for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are also several hiking and biking trails in the area, including lovely summer excursions into the mountains. And, in the winter, the nearby mountains offer great skiing, tobogganing, and snowboarding. The Golden Pass, a trail starting in Lucerne and continuing to Montreux, is an especially popular option for families. 

Then, the Chapel Bridge is a particularly popular attraction, as it is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Walk across it for a stunning view of the cityscape! Or, explore Lucerne’s most majestic sculpture, the Lion Monument. Lucerne also has several museums and art galleries to explore. Families can learn about planes, trains, and automobiles (and more!) at the Verkehrshaus (the Swiss Museum of Transport). Of course, no visit to Lucerne would be complete without a ride on the famous Lake Lucerne ship. For a more active adventure, hike up Mt. Pilatus or take a cable car ride to the top of Mt. Rigi. It’ll make two stops on the way up, one at a huge playground in the heart of the mountain, with a zip line, swings, slides, and picnic area. At the second stop, Frakmuntegg, there’s the longest luge in the world! 

Research and book a hotel in Lucerne through Hotels.com or Expedia here!

Mürren

A memorable family vacation awaits in Mürren! This small village in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland is a popular tourist destination for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Mürren is also home to several ski resorts, making it a great place to visit in winter. It’s also easily accessible from nearby villages, whether by train from Interlaken Ost or on The Lauterbrunnen–Mürren Mountain Railway. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, and the village has a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Once you arrive in the village, your first stop should be the historic center, where kids can learn about the culture and see the beautiful architecture. Then, take a cable car up to Schilthorn Mountain. From the top of the mountain, you can take in panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. Several hiking trails start from the village, so you can explore the area at your own pace. One popular hike is from Gimmelwald, leading you downhill to the end of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Families can also take the Mürren Mountain View Trail, which leads to the gorgeous Allmendhubel “Flower Park” Playground. Filled with flowers, this sprawling playground above the hills of Mürren offers breathtaking views across the valley and also an adjacent restaurant. In the summer, there are also several lakes and rivers near Mürren for swimming, canoeing, and fishing.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Mürren, there are several hotels and guesthouses to choose from. Alternatively, you can camp at one of the many camping sites located around the village.

Montreux

Make Montreux your family’s next home base for an awesome getaway! Not to mention one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, this quaint town is known for its mild climate, stunning scenery, and fantastic food. Families will love spending time in Montreux, exploring the charming streets, and enjoying the many activities the town has to offer. Of course, as we mentioned earlier in this article, one must-see for families is the chocolate train that runs from Montreux to Gruyères. This is a fantastic way to combine a visit to both villages and satisfy your kids’ sweet tooth in the process! 

Another of the best things to do in Montreux with kids is to take a ride on the Montreux Riviera Express. This vintage train will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in the area. You can also visit the Chillon Castle, which is one of the oldest castles in Europe and has a fascinating history. There are also several kid-friendly museums in Montreux, such as the Musée de Montreux. For stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, take a cable car up to the top of Rochers de Naye. There’s also a playground and a few restaurants, so you can make a day out of it. If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails in the area. And, of course, no trip to Montreux would be complete without taking a boat ride on the world-famous Lake Geneva

Grindelwald

Two small kids embrace while sitting in a green pasture near Grindelwald, with a mountain view near one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland.
Photo Courtesy: Lia Khan

Grindelwald is the perfect place to enjoy a family holiday in Switzerland. Located in the Bernese Oberland region, the village is situated at the base of the Eiger mountain, and its stunning setting makes it a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, Grindelwald is also home to several ski resorts, and a variety of hiking and biking trails. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy, as well as several shops selling traditional Swiss products. That means there are plenty of activities to keep all ages entertained! 

One of the most popular things to do is take a cable car up to the First Cliff Walk. This thrilling observation point hugs the side of a towering cliff and is a great way to get some fresh air and see stunning views of the Swiss Alps. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, there’s even The First Flyer, an epic zipline! You can also go hiking or mountain biking, or even explore one of the many glaciers. The Marmot Trail is a popular option for families because it’s scenic and offers a chance to see cute marmots between June and October. If you’re looking for something more relaxing, ride the Jungfraujoch Railway. This train takes you through a tunnel inside the mountain and stops at an observation deck where you can see glaciers and waterfalls. Families can also take a thrilling toboggan ride down the mountain. 

Look for a hotel stay in Grindelwald with Expedia or book a home rental through Vrbo here!

Plan an epic trip to Europe thanks to our list of the 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe!

Wengen

A family of three sits together on a bench, while taking in a mountain view near Wengen, one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland.

Enjoy the experience of staying in a quintessential Alpine town when you plan a vacation to Wengen. Located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, this beautiful village is well-known for its stunning views of the Jungfrau Mountain, traditional alpine architecture, and abundance of family-friendly activities. Because of this, it’s certainly one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland. Overall, Wengen is an ideal destination for families who want to experience the beauty of Switzerland while enjoying some fun activities together! 

There are many things to do in Wengen, from hiking, biking, and swimming in the summer to skiing or snowboarding in the winter. For some spectacular views, one option is to visit Maennlichen Mountain. There are two gondolas to the top, featuring unparalleled views of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau Mountains. Another option is to go hiking in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Several easy trails lead you past waterfalls and through meadows full of wildflowers. Try the Bachalpsee Nature Trail, an easy hike where kids can spot many different animals and plants. Wengen is also home to many Swiss heritage sites, such as the Wengen Abbey and the Wengen Folk Museum. If you’re looking for a place to relax, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from too. Plus, the village also has a playground and several parks.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Wengen, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from. Many of these accommodations offer family-friendly amenities, such as babysitting services and children’s menus.

Lausanne

An aerial view of Lausanne, one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland, featuring a large lake and cozy town nestled along the lake.

Families who want the feel of a small town with all the amenities of a bustling resort city will love Lausanne. Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, this beautiful city is located in Switzerland’s French-speaking region, which gives it a slightly different ambiance. In fact, whether it’s art, culture, or nature you’re interested in, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Lausanne. This delightful destination is ideal for a family vacation! To capture all the fun, make sure your kids pick up a Travel Journal at one of the tourist information offices.

There are plenty of things to do and see in this charming town. You can explore the Old Town, filled with medieval buildings like the Lausanne Cathedral and narrow streets. Or, visit one of the many museums, such as the Museum of Natural History or the Olympic Museum. If your kids are into art, the Fondation de l’Hermitage and Plateforme 10 (home to 3 museums!) are a must. Animal lovers can’t miss the chance to see a komodo dragon at the AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium! To explore the outdoors, there are many playgrounds throughout the city. Families can also go hiking or cycling in one of the many parks and forests in Lausanne. Certainly, kids will love following the Detective Trail and solving riddles along the way!

During the summer, Lake Geneva is the premier destination for all things water sports, from kayaking to taking a boat cruise. Speaking of water, no trip to Lausanne would be complete without seeing Geneva’s famous water fountain, Jet d’Eau!

Reserve your homestay in Lausanne with Vrbo or book a top-rated hotel with Hotels.com here!

Interlaken

Interlaken is a small town in the middle of Switzerland, popular for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Situated on the valley floor, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, it’s surrounded by picturesque mountains, thick forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers. This is also the perfect place for families who want to explore the Swiss Alps, since it’s a popular tourist destination and easy to navigate via public transportation. No wonder many consider this one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland! 

There are many things to do in Interlaken, both for adults and for children. ​​One of the best destinations for kids is Jungfrau Park, which offers many activities for children such as a petting zoo, playgrounds, and trampolines. Another great activity is to take a 10-minute cable car ride up to Harder Kulm for some stunning views. To cool off, take a dip in the Aare River or a boat ride on Lake Brienz. Riding the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte is a popular option for families with young kids who want to enjoy the mountain scenery without altitude sickness. Families can also go hiking or biking in the mountains, since many trails start from the town. Don’t forget to explore some of Interlaken’s charming cafes and shops in between all your activities! There are also several museums and galleries in Interlaken, as well as a cinema.

Need somewhere to stay? As one of the best towns and villages to visit with your family in Switzerland, Interlaken has several hotels and home rentals like Vrbo, so you’ll be able to find accommodation that suits your budget.

Lugano

An aerial view of Lugano, feature a lake-side location, larger church tower, and orange-roofed buidlings.

Family fun is waiting to be had in Lugano! Located in southern Switzerland’s Italian Canton of Ticino, south of the first ridge of the alps, this picturesque city is a perfect basecamp for outdoor adventuring. For one, it offers a unique mix of Swiss-Mediterranean culture, reflected in the fascinating architecture, friendly locals, and, of course, delicious food! Lugano is also a gateway to the famous Lake Lugano, a glacial lake with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Between swimming, sailing, and fishing, it’s no wonder kids love staying here so much! 

Lugano also boasts breathtaking scenery and plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy. Families can roam the old city center, with its narrow streets and quaint shops. Remember to take a ride on the historic Lugano Funicular. Or, visit one of the many museums and art galleries in the city, like the three-story Museo D’arte Della Svizzera Italiana. There are also boat tours circling the lake to provide views of the surrounding mountains. Looking for something more active? Venture out to one of the nearby hiking trails! A short walk from the city center, be sure to stop by the tranquil Parco Ciani, a public park with space to run around and a lovely garden. Lugano is also within a short distance of other famous attractions along the lake, like The Swissminiatur. Kids will love this theme park with miniature versions of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks! 

Reserve your hotel in Lugano with Travelocity or book your homestay here with Vrbo!

Happy Travels!

A family of four stands together looking out onto a view of Harder Kulm in Switzerland.
Photo Courtesy: Lia Khan

We hope you liked this list of 13 Amazing Towns and Villages To Visit With Your Family In Switzerland! From historical ruins to hiking, biking, and visiting the beach, planning a trip to these towns and villages as a family is certainly a unique way to experience Switzerland. Enjoy your family vacation in Switzerland!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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