13 day itinerary for Italy & Switzerland

Itinerary

A 13-day adventure through Italy and Switzerland sounds like a dream! Let’s create a family-friendly itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights at a relaxed pace, with plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy. Here we go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Rome

• Morning: Arrive in Rome. Settle into your hotel and take a moment to relax.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the beautiful Villa Borghese, a large park with gardens, fountains, and even a small lake. Rent a bike or a rowboat for some family fun!
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its charming streets and family-friendly restaurants.

## Day 2: Explore Rome

• Morning: Visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Consider a guided tour to keep the kids engaged with stories of gladiators!
• Afternoon: Head to the Palatine Hill for some stunning views and green spaces. Let the kids run around while you enjoy a picnic.
• Evening: Have gelato at a local gelateria and take a stroll to the Trevi Fountain to toss in a coin!

## Day 3: Vatican City

• Morning: Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Book a family-friendly tour to make it more engaging for the kids.
• Afternoon: Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and climb to the dome for breathtaking views.
• Evening: Relax in St. Peter’s Square and enjoy some street performances.

## Day 4: Florence

• Morning: Take a train to Florence (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel and have lunch.
• Afternoon: Visit the Boboli Gardens, a beautiful park with sculptures and fountains. Perfect for a family stroll!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan shops and local eateries.

## Day 5: Florence & Pisa

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Pisa (about 1 hour). Visit the Leaning Tower and the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli.
• Afternoon: Return to Florence and visit the Piazza della Signoria. Let the kids enjoy some gelato while you admire the statues.
• Evening: Dinner in Florence, perhaps trying some local Tuscan cuisine.

## Day 6: Venice

• Morning: Take a train to Venice (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore St. Mark’s Square and visit St. Mark’s Basilica. Don’t forget to take a gondola ride!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner along the Grand Canal and watch the sunset.

## Day 7: Venice

• Morning: Visit the Doge’s Palace and cross the Bridge of Sighs.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at Giardini della Biennale, a lovely park with art installations and plenty of space for the kids to run around.
• Evening: Have a relaxed dinner in the Cannaregio district, away from the tourist crowds.

## Day 8: Travel to Lucerne, Switzerland

• Morning: Take a train to Lucerne (about 6 hours, with beautiful scenery along the way).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the Lake Lucerne area. Enjoy a walk along the lakeside promenade.
• Evening: Dinner at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying Swiss specialties.

## Day 9: Lucerne

• Morning: Take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne to Vitznau and then ride the cogwheel train up to Mount Rigi for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Enjoy some hiking or simply relax in the fresh mountain air. There are family-friendly trails available.
• Evening: Return to Lucerne and have dinner in the old town.

## Day 10: Interlaken

• Morning: Travel to Interlaken (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the Höhematte Park, a large green space with playgrounds and beautiful views of the mountains.
• Evening: Enjoy a family dinner in Interlaken, perhaps trying some fondue!

## Day 11: Jungfrau Region

• Morning: Take a train to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe.” Enjoy the breathtaking views and snow activities.
• Afternoon: Visit the Ice Palace and let the kids play in the snow.
• Evening: Return to Interlaken for a cozy dinner.

## Day 12: Zurich

• Morning: Travel to Zurich (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Zurich Zoo or take a stroll in the Zurich Botanical Garden.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Old Town and take a walk along the Limmat River.

## Day 13: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll through Lindenhof Park for some last-minute views of the city.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

This itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxation, ensuring that you and your family can enjoy the beauty of Italy and Switzerland without feeling rushed. Each day includes parks and green spaces for the kids to play and for the family to unwind. Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️