10 day itinerary for Zurich

Itinerary

Zurich is a fantastic city with a mix of culture, nature, and fun activities that the whole family can enjoy. Here’s a budget-friendly 10-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and family fun. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Zurich

• Morning: Arrive in Zurich and check into your accommodation. Consider staying in a family-friendly hostel or budget hotel.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along Lake Zurich. The views are stunning, and it’s a great way to shake off any travel fatigue.
• Evening: Grab dinner at a local pizzeria or a casual Swiss restaurant. Try some fondue if you’re feeling adventurous!

## Day 2: Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)

• Morning: Head to the Old Town. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Grossmünster church, and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.
• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic in Lindenhof Park. Grab some sandwiches from a local bakery.
• Afternoon: Visit the Swiss National Museum. It’s educational and has interactive exhibits that kids will love.
• Evening: Dinner at a budget-friendly restaurant in the Old Town. Try some local sausages!

## Day 3: Day Trip to Uetliberg

• Morning: Take a train to Uetliberg, Zurich’s local mountain. The hike to the summit is family-friendly and offers breathtaking views.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top or eat at the restaurant there.
• Afternoon: Spend some time hiking or biking on the trails. There are plenty of options for all skill levels.
• Evening: Return to Zurich and have dinner at a casual eatery. Maybe try some Swiss chocolate for dessert!

## Day 4: Art and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich (Zurich Art Museum). They often have family-friendly activities and workshops.
• Lunch: Eat at a nearby café or grab some street food.
• Afternoon: Explore the Botanical Garden. It’s free and has beautiful plants and a lovely atmosphere.
• Evening: Dinner at a local burger joint. Kids will love it!

## Day 5: Day Trip to Rhine Falls

• Morning: Take a train to Schaffhausen to see Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. It’s about an hour from Zurich.
• Lunch: Have lunch at a café near the falls.
• Afternoon: Take a boat ride to get up close to the falls. The kids will love the adventure!
• Evening: Return to Zurich and have a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

## Day 6: Zoo and Park Day

• Morning: Visit the Zurich Zoo. It’s well-maintained and has a variety of animals that the kids will enjoy.
• Lunch: Have lunch at the zoo’s café or pack a picnic to enjoy in the nearby park.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at the nearby Zurich Botanical Garden or the Zurich Zoo’s Masoala Rainforest.
• Evening: Dinner at a local Swiss restaurant. Try some rösti!

## Day 7: Lake Zurich and Surroundings

• Morning: Rent bikes and ride along the shores of Lake Zurich. There are beautiful paths and parks along the way.
• Lunch: Stop at a lakeside café for lunch.
• Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of Rapperswil, known for its beautiful castle and rose gardens. It’s a short train ride away.
• Evening: Return to Zurich and have dinner at a casual eatery.

## Day 8: Science and Fun

• Morning: Visit the Technorama in Winterthur (a short train ride away). It’s a hands-on science museum that’s super fun for kids and adults alike.
• Lunch: Have lunch at the museum café.
• Afternoon: Explore the outdoor exhibits and enjoy the interactive displays.
• Evening: Return to Zurich and have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

## Day 9: Shopping and Leisure

• Morning: Spend the morning shopping on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets. Don’t forget to check out the local shops for souvenirs!
• Lunch: Grab lunch at a local café or food market.
• Afternoon: Visit the FIFA World Football Museum if your family enjoys sports. It’s interactive and fun!
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Celebrate your trip with some delicious Swiss cuisine!

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do any last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Check out of your accommodation and head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Travel:

• Public Transport: Use Zurich’s excellent public transport system. Consider getting a Zurich Card for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.
• Food: Look for local bakeries and supermarkets for budget-friendly meals. Picnics are a great way to save money!
• Free Attractions: Take advantage of free attractions like parks, lakes, and walking tours.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family adventure in Zurich! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️