14-day Switzerland Itinerary

*Work in Progress*

Switzerland, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, became the perfect backdrop for our 14-day adventure. From the bustling streets of Zurich to the serene valleys of Lauterbrunnen, our journey was a blend of history, sightseeing, and culinary delights. We wandered through picturesque villages, marveled at majestic castles, and reveled in the unique charm of Swiss architecture. Whether it was hiking in the Alps, exploring quaint towns, or indulging in local delicacies, each day brought new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Join us as we recount our Swiss sojourn, sharing the beauty, tranquility, and timeless allure that made this trip truly special.

Zurich

Accommodations

Zurich Marriott Hotel

Neumuehlequai 42 Zurich 8006 Switzerland

Day 1: Arrival Day and Zurich Orientation

July 11th, 2024

Overview:

Day 1 will be a slow day to allow our bodies to adjust to the jet lag, rest, and recover.  

  • Hotel check-in w/power nap
  • Lunch
  • walking tour
  • boat to Lindt
  • train back to dinner

Transportation:

From Zurich Airport, we will take train to Zurich HB

https://maps.app.goo.gl/DSx8RuXYF67SivcY6
Trains depart every 5-10 minutes

Morning:

Arrive in Zurich at 8:55 AM and take the train to Zurich City Center.  Check-in to the hotel and take a brief power nap. 

Lunch Ideas (No Reservation): 

Holy Cow! Gourmet Burger Co.
Pret A Manger Löwenplatz (On the way from Marriott to Bahnhofstrasse)- casual 

Afternoon:

Walking Tour: Orient ourselves to Zurich with a self-guided tour of the city.  Sights to see include the following.  Tour takes 2 hours:

  1. Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Central Railway Station)
  2. Bahnhofstrasse (Station Street)
  3. Urania Observatory
  4. Lindenhofplatz (Lindenhof Square
  5. St. Peterskirche (St. Peter’s Church)
  6. Fraumünster (Church of Our Lady)
  7. Grossmünster (Great Minster)
  8. Kunsthaus Zurich (Museum of Art)
  9. Kronenhalle Restaurant
  10. Bürkliplatz (Burkli Square)

Tour Link: https://www.gpsmycity.com/tours/zurich-introduction-walking-tour-3495.html

Lindt Chocolate Tour

Transportation:  Boat from Burkliplatz (last stop on walking tour) to Kilchberg ZH.  Get on 14:30 Departure. Ship departs once an hour on the half hour.
Tickets: Jul 11, 2024 3:30 PM  Lindt Chocolate Tour.pdf

Dinner Reservation:
Swiss Chuchi Restaurant Jul 11, 2024 6:00 PM

Rosengasse 10, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

Evening:

Return to hotel to rest and prepare for Lucerne departure.

Lucerne

Lucerne, Switzerland, is a picturesque city known for its stunning lake views, charming old town, and proximity to the Swiss Alps. Today we will leave Zurich early and take a short 41 minute train ride to Lucerne.  After arrival in the city, we will drop our luggage at the hotel and start our day of sightseeing.

Accommodations

Hotel MONOPOL Luzern 

Day 2: Explore Lucerne City

July 12th, 2024

Transportation:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/TbmBgbNv3WHK23vx8

Morning:

Walking Tour:  Self-guided Walking Tour of Lucerne and its historical sites.  The tour is 2-hours and includes the following landmarks:

  1. Lucerne Railway Station
  2. Rosengart Collection
  3. Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche)
  4. Chapel Bridge
  5. Rathaus (Town Hall)
  6. Spreuer Bridge
  7. Museggmauer (Musegg Wall)
  8. Bourbaki Panorama
  9. Lion Monument
  10. Glacier Garden
  11. Church of St. Leodegar
  12. Lake Lucerne Promenade

Tour Link: https://www.gpsmycity.com/tours/lucerne-introduction-walking-tour-2737.html 

Consider 1.5 Hour Lucerne Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide $139.76
https://www.viator.com/tours/Lucerne/Small-Group-Guided-Walking-City-Tour-of-Lucerne/d576-56576P1 

Lunch:

Old Town (Altstadt): Explore Lucerne’s charming Old Town with its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and bustling squares. Stop for lunch during our walking tour at one of the local cafes or restaurants to enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine.

Afternoon:

Swiss Museum of Transport: Spend the afternoon at the Swiss Museum of Transport, located just outside the city center. This interactive museum showcases Switzerland’s transportation history with exhibits on trains, planes, automobiles, and even space travel. It’s a great place for both adults and children to learn and have fun.

https://www.verkehrshaus.ch/en/home.html

Evening:

Dinner Ideas: 

We have reserved 7 seats at Wirtshaus Taube for 12.07.2024, 18:15 for you.

Lake Lucerne 2.5 Hour Sunset Cruise: Experience the natural spectacle of a radiant sunset over the towering peaks of Central Switzerland. Let the tranquility of the lake and the majesty of the mountains do their bit, while the stately steamboat or the vessel “MS Diamant” gently glides over the waves. Our catering crew will be delighted to serve you a selection of popular drinks or invite you for a refined dinner.

https://webshop.lakelucerne.ch/en/products/sunset-cruise

Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Pilatus

July 13th, 2024

Overview:

Today we’ll start our day with breakfast before heading up to Mount Pilatus where we will spend the day.  We’ll take a boat and cogwheel training up to the peak to tak in scenic views, play on playgrounds, enjoy a mountain toboggan ride, before taking the cable car back down to Lucerne.  We’ll end our day with a Swiss dinner show.

Breakfast Suggestions:
Heini Conditorei AG (Heini Bakery).  There are several locations.  One close to the train station one in the city center.

Morning:

Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip: Take an early morning trip to Mount Pilatus, often referred to as the “Dragon Mountain.” We will reach the summit by taking a combination of boat and the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. Once at the top, soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne before heading back. https://www.pilatus.ch/en/discover/golden-round-trip https://seatosequoia.com/mount-pilatus-switzerland/ 

  • Lucerne to Alpnachstad
    • Boat (60-90 Minutes)
      Or
    • Train (17 minutes)
  • Cogwheel (From Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm Up the Mountain)
  • Aerial Cableway (From Pilatus Kulm to Fräkmüntegg Down the Mountain)
  • Panorama Gondola (From Fräkmüntegg to Kriens Down the Mountain)
  • Bus (Back to Lucerne)

Lunch:

Picnic or Mountain Restaurant: Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view at one of the designated picnic areas on Mount Pilatus, or dine at one of the mountain restaurants offering traditional Swiss cuisine. 

Restaurants at Mount Pilatus:

Panoramagrill: Brats and French Fries
Restaurant Fräkmüntegg: Self-serve Swiss Food
Restaurant Krienseregg: Family Friendly next to Playground

Afternoon:

Fräkmüntegg: The largest rope park in central Switzerland, Tree Tents, the toboggan run, hiking trails, and a self-service restaurant.

Evening:

Return to Lucerne: Descend from Mount Pilatus and return to Lucerne in the late afternoon or early evening.

Dinner Reservation:
Stadtkeller: Dinner, music and a folklore show. info@stadtkeller.ch
From april until october, we are open 7 days a week, with a daily folklore evening show. Music starts at 7:30 p.m., showtime at 8:00 p.m. We offer a lunch show on request.

Swinging flags, the sounds of alpine horns and yodeling: all offered by our band wearing authentic traditional costumes. Breathtaking Images and videos of the unique Swiss landscape and iconic sights accompany the live show. Enjoy a selection of the finest Swiss specialities, which we have reinterpreted according to tried and true recipes. Stadtkeller Lucerne is the only place you will find that much Switzerland packed into one evening!

Berner Oberland Region

Accommodations

Chalet Rosa B&B

Beim Pfrundhaus 428, 3822 Lauterbrunnen

7/14/2024 – 7/18/2024

Check-in 4:00PM

Confirmation #4203515547
Quadruple Room

Breakfast Included

Day 4: Arrival to Lauterbrunnen: Murren and Gimmelwald

July 14th, 2024

Overview: 
Today we will transfer from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen.  Upon arrival we will drop our luggage at the hotel, check out Staubach Falls by our hotel, then venture up to Gimmelwald then Murren where we will have dinner. 

Transportation:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/DoMwjoV2Udnunm4G9

Staubbach Falls to Gimmelwald

Morning:

Arrive in Lauterbrunnen:  Check into our accommodation and settle in.

Staubbach Falls: Start your exploration of Lauterbrunnen with a visit to Staubbach Falls, one of Switzerland’s highest free-falling waterfalls. Marvel at the stunning cascade plunging from a cliff above the village.

Lunch:

Restaurant Schützen was recommended by our BnB. The food was typical Swiss food.
https://g.co/kgs/Ko8en1T

Afternoon: 

Cable Car to Gimmelwald: From Lauterbrunnen take a short bus ride, then and hop on the cable car to Gimmelwald.  Explore the town.

Continue you on the Cable Car to Mürren another picturesque mountain village with stunning vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the village and soak in the alpine atmosphere.

If time allows Take the funicular to Allmendhubel Alpen Playground and enjoy the Mürren Blumental “Flower Valley” Trail hike back to Murren.

Evening:

Dinner: Restaurant Stägerstübli: This was also typical Swiss food, but was very good. Each of the entrees taht we ordered came with a side of crispy pan fried spaetzle that we all loved. It was a great way to soak up all the extra gravy on our plate. This is also the restaurant where we learned about “Syrups”. A Swiss drink for kids.

Day 5: Lauterbrunnen & Wengen

July 15th, 2024

Overview:

  • Trummelback Falls
  • Pickup Lunch at Coop
  • Cable Car to Holenstein
  • Picnic
  • Hike the Liesolette Trail down to Mannlichen
  • Play at the Alpine Herdsman’s Playground
  • Drinks and Snacks at Berghause Mannlichen
  • Optional
    • Hike the Royal Walk
    • Snacks at Mountain Hut Männlichen
  • Explore Wengen

Morning:

Trümmelbach Visit the Trummelbach Falls

Lunch:

Head to Coop Supermarkt Lauterbrunnen and pick up items for a picnic at Mannlichen.

Late Morning/Early Afternoon:

Playground and Hike: Take the Männlichen cable car from Station Männlichenbahn to Männlichen switch to the Grindelwald Terminal cable car and take it to Holenstein.  From here, hike down the Lieselotte Trail, a cow themed trail, back to Männlichen.  In Männlichen, kids will enjoy the cow themed Alpine Herdsman’s playground.  Adults can hang out at the Berghaus Männlichen terrace and relax with snacks and drinks. 

Wengen: Wengen, a car-free village perched on a sunny terrace overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Explore the charming streets and admire the views of the surrounding peaks.  


Royal walk Royal Walk

Evening:

Cogwheel train to Lauterbrunnen: Take the cogwheel train from Wengen to Lauterbrunnen, https://www.myswissalps.com/travel-guide/lauterbrunnen-wengen/ 

Dinner: The Bell Restaurant: This was by far the worst meal we ate on our entire trip. We originally had plans to eat in Wengen, but tired, hangry kids forced us back to Lauterbrunnen ahead of schedule where we got a seat at the first restaurant that could accomodate us without reservations.

Day 6: Free Day – Relax, Explore, etc.

July 16th, 2024

Morning:

Do Laundry at Waschsalon Laundromat

Activities in and around Lauterbrunnen

1. Explore Lauterbrunnen Village

  • Stroll through the charming village.
  • Visit local shops and cafes.
  • Enjoy the picturesque scenery and traditional Swiss architecture.

2. Hiking and Walking Trails

  • Mürren Blumental “Flower Valley” Trail: Short trail above Mürren village, starting at the flower park playground and descending through alpine meadows and forest to the Mürren village.
  • Valley Trail: A scenic, easy trail through the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
  • Mürren Trail: Take the cable car to Grütschalp and hike to Mürren for stunning views.
  • Northface Trail: A more challenging hike offering incredible views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
  • https://www.berneseoberlandpass.ch/attractions/the-6-most-beautiful-family-hikes/ 

3. Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum

4. Sherlock Holmes Museum Meiringen

4. Take a Cable Car to Schilthorn

  • Ride the cable car up to Schilthorn, famous for its panoramic views and as a filming location for a James Bond movie.
  • Visit the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant and the Bond World 007 exhibition.

5. Paragliding

  • Experience the thrill of paragliding over the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
  • Several companies offer tandem flights for beginners.

Dinner: 

6 pm 7 people s/W Inge on 7/9/24

Restaurant Weidstüblihttps://www.weidstuebli.swiss/  

@campgrounds +41 0 33856 20 10

Day 7: Interlaken and Lake Brienzersee (Brienz)

July 17th, 2024

Overview:

  • Train to Interlaken
  • Boat ride to Brienz
  • Swim at a beach resort and have lunch on site
  • Explore Interlaken
  • Fondue Dinner
  • Sunset at Harder Kulm

Morning:

Breakfast in Lauterbrunnen

Take a scenic train ride from Lauterbrunnen to Brienz, passing through Interlaken on the way, a charming town located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Swimming and Play at Strandbad Brienz Beach Resort:  Strandbad Brienz offers a restaurant with a swimming pool, aqua park with water trampoline, changing rooms, and a lawn area with beach access. 

Lunch:

At Strandbad Brienz

Afternoon:

Take a boat cruise on Lake Brienzersee, admiring the picturesque landscapes and visiting charming lakeside villages.  Cruises are 1h 13min and depart @ 2:40, 3:40, 5:40

Explore Interlaken’s shopping streets, gardens, and cafes, enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains.

Evening:

Dinner: Fondue Villa Garden https://fonduevilla.com/fondue-villa-garden-interlaken/ 

Watch the Sunset at Harder Kulm  Sunset on July 17th, 2024 is 9:15PM.  Tickets at https://www.jungfrau.ch/en-gb/harder-kulm/harder-kulm-ticket-kaufen/ 

Zermatt

Accommodations

Le Petit CHARME-INN

Restaurants: *Golden India, Rosstall, *Brown Cow, *Grampi italian 

Day 8: Arrival and Exploration

July 18th, 2024

Overview:

It’s nearly a three out train trek from Lauterbrunnen to Zermatt.  We will arrive at the hotel around 11:24 where we will drop our bags and go find some lunch, followed by a 1-hour walking orientation tour of the the town.  

Transportation:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/pPJ4ZE5eSXBXznif8

Morning:

Arrive in Zermatt: Travel to Zermatt from Lauterbrunnen.

Late Morning/Early Afternoon:

Zermatt Orientation Walking Tour (1 hour).  Explore the following sites:

  1. St Mauritius Church
  2. Matterhorn Museum
  3. Mountaineers’ Cemetery
  4. Kirchbrücke Viewpoint
  5. Hinterdorfstrasse
  6. St. Peter’s Church
  7. Gornergrat Railway
  8. Zermatt Mountain Cable Ways

Tour Site: https://www.gpsmycity.com/tours/zermatt-introduction-walking-tour-4930.html 

Lunch:

Lunch in Zermatt

Afternoon:

Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis:  offers insight into the development of Zermatt. It shows the triumph and tragedy surrounding the first ascent of the Matterhorn.

Zermatt Gorner Gorge and Furi Hike:  A 90-minute in and out hike through a narrow gorge. https://swissfamilyfun.com/zermatt-gorner-gorge/ 

Forest Fun Park Kids Trail:  Kids can play on 7 different zip lines and 31 bridges. Note:  They have a “Big Trail” and “Kids Trail” which sounds like it would divide Sophia from Stella & C because of age restrictions. https://www.zermatt-fun.com/adventures/kids-trail/ 

Evening:

Dinner in Zermatt: Return to Zermatt in the evening and dine at one of the town’s many restaurants. Try traditional Swiss dishes like raclette or fondue for a taste of local cuisine.

Notes: 
Procession of the goats – about 50 Valais Blackneck goats walk along the Bahnhofstrasse at about 9am and 5pm every day.

Day 9: Matterhorn and Glacier Paradise

July 19th, 2024

Morning:

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Start your day with a visit to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest cable car station in Europe. Take the cable car from Zermatt up to the summit and enjoy stunning views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers.

Glacier Palace: Explore the Glacier Palace, a fascinating ice cave located inside the glacier. Marvel at ice sculptures, tunnels, and crevasses while learning about glaciology and the history of the region.

Lunch:

Restaurant on Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Enjoy lunch at the restaurant on Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, savoring Swiss cuisine while surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

Afternoon:

Gornergrat Visit (Optional): If you’re up for it, you can take another trip to Gornergrat in the afternoon for additional hiking or simply to enjoy the views from a different vantage point.

Evening:

Explore Zermatt: Spend your evening exploring the charming streets of Zermatt. Visit local shops, cafes, and boutiques, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the town.

Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice, reminiscing about your adventures in Zermatt and soaking in the Alpine ambiance.

Montreux

Accommodations

Hotel Bon Port
Rue du Théâtre 4, CH – 1820 Montreux
Check-in:  Sat, Jul 20, 2024, 03:00 pm

Check-out:  Mon, Jul 22, 2024, 11:00 am

Day 10: Arrival and Exploring Montreux

July 20th, 2024

Transportation:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/h7i2s8woY72cbuQ4A

Overview:

Arrive in Montreux: Arrive in Montreux in the morning by train. Take in the picturesque views of Lake Geneva and the mountains as you arrive.  Drop our bags at the hotel and proceed to Chillon Castle.

Morning:

Arrive in Montreux: Arrive in Montreux in the morning by train. Take in the picturesque views of Lake Geneva and the mountains as you arrive.

Chillon Castle: Visit Chillon Castle, located just a short 15 min ferry ride from Montreux. Explore this historic castle, which dates back to the 12th century, and learn about its fascinating history and architecture.  Hours 9:30AM-7:00PM (Last entry at 6:00PM)  Ferry departs 4 times daily from the Montreux Ferry Terminal at 10:32, 12:45, 14:45, 16:45.

Lunch:

Lunch at Chillon Castle: Enjoy lunch at the castle or one of the many restaurants or cafes along the Montreux lakeside promenade. Sample local Swiss cuisine or international dishes while soaking in the views of Lake Geneva.

Late Afternoon:

Queen The Studio Experience

Train to Lausanne Forget Lausanne.  Montreux has plenty to offer us after doing more research. I will update later – JF

Walking Tour of Lausanne:  Begin our exploration of Lausanne with a walking tour of the historic town center.  For the sake of time we can skip the Olympic Museum.  

  • Olympic Museum
  • Lusanne Cathedral
  • Place de la Palud
  • Fountain of Justice
  • Rue Martery
  • Collection de l’Art Brut
  • The Pinte Besson
  • Tour de Sauvabelin
  • The Flon

https://www.gpsmycity.com/blog/lausanne-the-best-small-city-in-the-world-7328.html

Evening:

Dinner at Pente Besson: The oldest restaurant in Lausanne is also one of its most popular. The Pinte Besson opened in 1780 and has since served traditional Swiss dishes. The restaurant is most known for serving up the best fondue in Lausanne – a rich mix of Gruyere and Vacherin served with potatoes and bread for dipping. Pinte Besson also serves great local wines and seasonal dishes at great value for money.

The Flon: After dinner head to the Flon.  The Flon district was once a natural valley run through by the river Flon and now one of the hot spots of Lausanne nightlife. The old warehouse district is now full of hip clubs, trendy bars, cool shops, and modern restaurants. 

Day 11: Chocolate Train Ride to Gruyères and On to Broc

Morning:

Chocolate Train Ride: Let yourself embark on an exceptional excursion to the flavors of the land. The journey begins with a train trip, by Belle Époque carriage if you wish, from Montreux to Montbovon. A comfortable bus then takes over. First stop: Gruyères. Here you will discover the secrets of the production of this world-famous cheese before setting off to conquer the medieval town. In Broc, finally, the famous Cailler chocolate factory will open its doors for a fun and engaging visit. To top it all off, there is an irresistible tasting. https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-us/experiences/chocolate-train/ 

Gruyères Visit: Arrive in Gruyères and explore the charming medieval village. Visit the Gruyères Castle, stroll through the cobblestone streets, and admire the traditional Swiss architecture. Don’t forget to sample some delicious Gruyère cheese while you’re there!

Lunch:

Lunch in Gruyères: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Gruyères, indulging in Swiss specialties like fondue or raclette.

Afternoon:

Chocolate Factory Tour and Tasting: Arrival at Broc Fabrique, visit of the Maison Cailler-Nestlé and chocolate tasting then take the bus back to Montreux.

Chocolate Train Schedule:

09:50 Departure from Montreux
10:35 Arrival at Montbovon
10:50 Transfer by bus
11:10 Visit to “La Maison du Gruyère”
12:00 Transfer by bus to the village
12:10 Free time: visit of the village (lunch and entrance to Château de Gruyères not included, Swiss Travel Pass holders visit the Château free of charge; reduction for all clients of the Chocolate Train excursion)
14:15 Transfer by bus between Gruyères and Broc
14:30 Arrival at Broc Fabrique, visit of the Maison Cailler-Nestlé and chocolate tasting
16:30 Transfer by bus between Broc and Montreux
17:15 Arrival at Montreux

Evening:

Explore Montreux

Montreux Old Town: Explore the charming Old Town of Montreux, with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and boutique shops. Take some time to wander around and discover hidden gems.

Freddy Mercury Statue: Pay a visit to the Freddy Mercury Statue, located on the lakeside promenade. This iconic statue pays tribute to the legendary singer, who lived in Montreux for many years.

Montreux Promenade: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Montreux lakeside promenade. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and views of the flower-lined waterfront.

Bern

Accommodations

Hotel Bären am Bundesplatz

Day 12: Exploring Bern

July 22nd, 2024

Transportation:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/JsoPBXuE5ZnVyroU9

Late Morning and Early Afternoon:

Walking Tour: Self-guided walking tour of downtown Bern including stops at:

  • Bundeshaus (Federal Palace)
  • Bundesplatz (Federal Square)
  • Käfigturm (Prison Tower)
  • Marktgasse (Market Street)
  • Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child Eater Fountain)
  • Zytglogge (Clock Tower)
  • Zahringerbrunnen (Zahringen Fountain)
  • Einsteinhaus (Einstein House)
  • Berner Münster (The Cathedral of Bern)
  • Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen (Fountain of Justice)
  • Nydeggkirche (Nydegg Church)
  • Untertorbrucke (Lower Gate Bridge)
  • Rosengarten (Rose Garden)

https://www.gpsmycity.com/tours/bern-introduction-walking-tour-3653.html

Stop along the tour for lunch in historic Bern and end the Bern Bear Park

Bern Bear Park (Bärenpark): Head to the Bern Bear Park, located near the Nydegg Bridge, to see Bern’s famous bears. Learn about the history of the bears in Bern and observe them in their natural habitat.

Afternoon:

Playground:  Spielplatz Längmuur

Shopping and Souvenirs: Spend some time shopping in Bern’s Old Town, where you’ll find a variety of boutiques, shops, and markets selling everything from Swiss chocolate to handmade crafts.

Gurten: In Bern, you can ride a funicular train to a hill overlooking the city. Up there, you’ll find a fun amusement center for kids with a playground, water play, marble run, and rides for little kids including a mini train and electric cars. The summer toboggan is the star attraction, with lots of twists and turns. It’s a nice treat for the kids after a day touring the city and visiting museums.
https://www.gurtenpark.ch/de-CH/freizeit/spielpark/rodelbahn 

Evening:

@ Altes Tramdepot 7 people 6:00 pm 

Dinner in the Old Town: Choose one of the many restaurants in the Old Town for dinner. Enjoy Swiss specialties such as fondue, raclette, or Rösti, along with a glass of Swiss wine or beer.

Nydegg Bridge and River Aare: After dinner, take a walk along the Nydegg Bridge, which offers beautiful views of the River Aare and the Old Town. Capture some photos of the illuminated landmarks and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Zurich

Day 13: Back to Zurich

July 23rd, 2024

Transportation:

1h 30min – Direct – $32/pp

Morning:

Get a late departure from Bern, enjoy breakfast in Bern before boarding the train back to Zurich.

Lunch:

Lunch in Zurich

Afternoon:

Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum): Head to the Swiss National Museum to learn about Switzerland’s cultural history and heritage. Explore the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts, art, and exhibits.

Day 14:  Depart for Philadelphia

July 24th, 2024

Transportation:

9min – Direct – $3/pp

Flight:

AA 93 – ZRH > PHL

Departs 11:45 AM
Arrives 2:50 PM

Confirmation #MAJRGO

Other Trip Planning

Playgrounds

We found a lot of playgrounds in Switzerland and here’s where they were.

Hotel Ideas

Zurich

Marriott Zurich Hotel

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/zrhdt-zurich-marriott-hotel/overview/

Lucerne

Hotel MONOPOL Lucerne

4-star, middle of historic city center, one block from train station.

https://www.monopolluzern.ch/en

Lauterbrunnen

Note:  VERY LITTLE is available for families that’s not over $1,000/night and doesn’t have shared bathrooms or isn’t a hostel.  Can’t be too picky. 

Chalet Rosa B&B

$1721 (Frazars)

$1811 (Scanlans)

Price includes breakfast.

Zermatt

Hotel Bristol

Montreux

Frazars

Scanlans

Bern

Hotel Bären am Bundesplatz

Trip Extras

Left Luggage Facilities

Laundry Facilities

Laundromat in Lauterbrunnen

https://g.co/kgs/ctJuVyg

Transportation

Swiss Travel Pass: 15-day travel pass is $547 for adults.  Kids travel free.  Includes access to all public transportation (trains, buses, boats) inside Switzerland.  Includes admission to 500+ museums.  Does not include access to mountain top transportation (the final leg up to Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, etc), but will provide a 25-50% discount. 

Costs without Swiss Travel Pass:

Train Costs

  1. Zurich to Zurich Hb:
    • Adults: $3 x 4 = $12
    • Children: $1.50 x 3 = $4.50
    • Total: $16.50
  2. Zurich to Lucerne:
    • Adults: $26 x 4 = $104
    • Children: $13 x 3 = $39
    • Total: $143
  3. Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen:
    • Adults: $35 x 4 = $140
    • Children: $17.50 x 3 = $52.50
    • Total: $192.50
  4. Lauterbrunnen to Zermatt:
    • Adults: $113 x 4 = $452
    • Children: $56.50 x 3 = $169.50
    • Total: $621.50
  5. Zermatt to Montreux:
    • Adults: $78 x 4 = $312
    • Children: $39 x 3 = $117
    • Total: $429
  6. Montreux to Bern:
    • Adults: $28 x 4 = $112
    • Children: $14 x 3 = $42
    • Total: $154
  7. Bern to Zurich:
    • Adults: $32 x 4 = $128
    • Children: $16 x 3 = $48
    • Total: $176
  8. Zurich to Zurich Airport:
    • Adults: $3 x 4 = $12
    • Children: $1.50 x 3 = $4.50
    • Total: $16.50

Additional Transportation Costs

  1. Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip:
    • Adults: $123.82 x 4 = $495.28
    • Children: $61.91 x 3 = $185.73
    • Total: $681.01
  2. Lauterbrunnen to Lake Brienz (Round Trip):
    • Adults: $26.16 x 4 = $104.64
    • Children: $13.08 x 3 = $39.24
    • Total: $143.88
  3. Lauterbrunnen to Mürren (Round Trip):
    • Adults: $24.46 x 4 = $97.84
    • Children: $12.23 x 3 = $36.69
    • Total: $134.53
  4. Lauterbrunnen to Wengen (Round Trip):
    • Adults: $14.85 x 4 = $59.40
    • Children: $7.43 x 3 = $22.29
    • Total: $81.69

Museum Costs

  1. Swiss National Museum:
    • Adults: $10.90 x 4 = $43.60
    • Children: Free
    • Total: $43.60
  2. Swiss Museum of Transport:
    • Adults: $34.88 x 4 = $139.52
    • Children: $13.08 x 3 = $39.24
    • Total: $178.76

Grand Total

The total cost for the entire group’s transportation and museum fees is approximately $3013.47.

Dan Owes John

Hotel Bären am Bundesplatz Bern – $401.40

Hotel Bon Port Montreux – $620.67

Latterbrunnen Room – $1,673.06

$2,695.13 Total

Resources/Guides

https://www.familyfunfactor.com/ultimate-pilatus-family-guide

Dan DOB:  11/21/1977

Stacy DOB:  2/18/1978

Sophia DOB:  

Stella DOB:  

Useful Websites

Rejected Itinerary Ideas

Day 6: Grindelwald & First Cliff Walk

July 16th, 2024

NOTE:  All of the activities at Grindelwald have a 77lb and 4.25’ weight and height minimum.  The Bachalpsee hike is 3.66miles and takes 2-3 hours and has a 620’ elevation change each way.  Furthermore the cost of the cable cars with the Swiss Travel Pass discount is 

Transportation:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qsxnHRfho9pgryz5A 

1-day Itinerary:

First Cliff Walk: This jaw-dropping metal walkway is suspended from the mountainside at the top of Grindelwald First, a feat of Swiss engineering. Admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys below along First Cliff Walk, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes to finish. For the best chance of clear days and far-reaching views, you can check the real-time weather online via webcam before visiting. To get there, you’ll have to take a 25-minute gondola ride from Grindelwald and then another gondola to Grindelwald First, about 30 mins

  • Visit the Cliff Walk and First View platform, about 30 mins
  • Hike to Bachalpsee lake, about 2 hours round trip
  • Picnic Lunch at Bachalpsee Lake
  • Head down the mountain (Family Friendly)
    • Gondola down to Bort station, about 15 mins
    • Playtime at Bort alpine playground, about 1 hour
    • Gondola down to Grindelwald, about 15 minute walk to the cliff walk.
  • Head down the mountain (Adventurer)
    • First Flyer down to Schreckfeld station, about 15 mins
    • First Glider that starts and ends at Schreckfeld station, about 15 mins
    • Mountain Cart from Schreckfeld to Bort station, about 15 mins
    • Trottibike from Bort to Grindelwald village, about 40 mins

Lunch Suggestions:


Grindelwald: Onkel Tom’s Pizzeria und Weinlokal Low key dinner of pizza, salads, beer & wine.

Afternoon:

Evening:

Return to Lauterbrunnen