When you’re traveling with your extended family, finding a destination that fits the bill for everyone can feel like mission impossible. But we think we’ve cracked the code on multi-generational trips with Switzerland. This Alpine paradise offers a perfect blend of activities that cater to every age group. Grandparents can take a scenic train ride or stroll on well-marked hiking trails. Parents can indulge in outdoor adventure at any level of intensity followed by gourmet meals. And even the most “discerning” teens will be stoked by the abundance of adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures.
Want to learn more? Let’s go!
Zurich
Begin your Swiss sojourn in Zurich, a small, easily walkable city that combines historic charm with a joyful celebration of summer. . While many travelers quickly pass through on the way to other destinations, we recommend lingering at least for one night to uncover the city's hidden gems.
One we love is a private chocolate tour. On this tour we’ll skip over mass-produced Lindt chocolates and go on a chocolate tasting adventure through the city, stopping at Swiss family-owned chocolatiers of the highest quality.
While you're savoring those sweets, make sure to chat up your guide to learn more about Swiss culture. It’s immersive experiences like these that make a trip memorable.
Want to connect even more deeply? We can arrange meet-ups with local families or artisans, offering genuine insights into Swiss life.
Where to stay: Ameron
One of the hotels we love in Zurich is the lavishly renovated, four-star Ameron, a perfect blend of urban lifestyle and modern Art Deco style and situated right on the lake. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed; book a premium or deluxe room to get your own balcony where you can people watch to your heart’s content. The lake promenade is right across the street and you can walk in both directions for miles or simply gaze out the window at the beachclub where locals swim in this urban lake . Old Town Zurich, with its abundance of shops and incredible architecture is just a stroll away.
Grindelwald
Nestled in the Bernese Alps, Grindelwald is the ultimate family-friendly destination. It's a picturesque town that offers easy access to some of Switzerland's most breathtaking landscapes and incredible outdoor activities that are fun for everyone. Grindewald is an easy day-trip from Interlaken which makes it crowded with day-trippers from all over the world - think the Middle East and Asia as well as Europe and America.
Our favorite adventures:
Paragliding
Yes, you read that right. We can arrange for your teens (and you, if you're brave enough) to literally fly over the Alps. Now this is definitely an Insta-worthy adventure.
Mountain Carting
Picture this: you're zooming down a mountain on what looks like a go-cart's burlier cousin. It's wild, it's fun, and it's something you definitely can't do at home.
Trotti Biking
Think scooter meets mountain bike. It's hilarious, slightly ridiculous, and absolutely unmissable.
Jungfraujoch Excursion
Take a scenic train up, up, up to visit the "Top of Europe.” At the summit, you can enjoy gourmet dining with panoramic views, visit the Ice Palace, and step onto the Aletsch Glacier.
Where to stay: Bergwelt
We recommend staying at Bergwelt, a sleek ski hotel that blends Alpine style with modern design. Most rooms offer spectacular mountain views (choose a “luxury room” if you want the best). And if you’re traveling with extended family, you can book massive three-bedroom suites - we did and it was perfect for a few nights of cooking and catching up on the couch.
Zermatt
Zermatt is home of the Matterhorn, that famously pointy mountain on the Toblerone bar. This charming town is car-free and is the perfect destination for a few days of relaxation and adventure. Compared to Grindelwald we found it to have less of a “day-tripper” crowd and more visitors intent on doing multi-day hikes. This is likely because it’s a three hour journey from any major airport.
Our recommendations:
Hike to Chez Vrony, a Michelin-starred restaurant nestled high up on the mountain above Zermatt. The cozy, rustic atmosphere indoors is delightful, but for the best experience, dine out on the terrace. Enjoy gourmet dishes crafted from local ingredients while marveling at unparalleled views of the Matterhorn.
Summer skiing—it’s a thing. Trade your hiking boots for ski boots and carve up a glacier.
The 5 Lakes Trail in Zermatt is a hiker's dream come true. In just a few hours—the moderate trail is just under 6 miles—you'll go from flower-filled meadows to rugged mountain terrain. And because each lake reflects the Matterhorn in a slightly different way, the photo ops are incredible.
Arrange a private sunrise tour to Gornergrat. Watch the first light paint the Matterhorn in hues of gold and pink.
Where to stay: Cervo
With 54 rooms and suites and seven lodges, the CERVO mountain resort is the most stylish of Alpine accommodations. Each space in the hotel is lovingly curated to combine modern design, flawless service, and mindful luxury. The chic and cozy rooms feature handmade Hastens beds and spa-like baths. Our favorite of their several restaurants is The Bazaar, a lively, yet relaxed place to share a delicious meal at the end of an adventurous day.
Ready to plan your Swiss family adventure? We'd love to make some Alpine magic for you. Get in touch!