If you’re planning a trip to Zurich with kids, let me tell you, I’ve been there. Literally. My family has lived there the past two summers thanks to my husband’s job, and while we mostly made ourselves at home in an Airbnb, we’ve dabbled in hotel life a few times. Zurich might not be the first place you think of when considering a family-friendly European city, but it’s honestly a gem. Between the lakeside swimming spots, playground-packed restaurants, and mountain hikes just a quick train ride away, there’s more than enough to keep the little ones entertained — and you sane.

Where to Stay

Let’s start with where to stay. While Airbnb was our home base for most of our Zurich adventures (because it’s hard to beat having a kitchen and a separate bedroom for the kiddo), I must shout out to Baur au Lac. If you want to live out your Swiss luxury dreams, this hotel has a prime location by Lake Zurich, top-tier service, and rooms big enough to fit your family without feeling crammed into a shoebox. Plus, the hotel is close to all the city’s main attractions. You can easily walk to Bahnhofstrasse for some shopping, stroll through the charming Old Town, or visit one of Zurich’s many kid-friendly museums.

One of the standout features this summer was their stunning terrace, which felt like our own Mediterranean getaway. Picture this: while you enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes, your kids can run around the large, lush lawn that surrounds the terrace. You get to sit back with a chilled rosé while they burn off all that extra energy. It’s honestly the dream — a mix of luxury and practicality that makes dining out with kids feel like less of a juggling act. And if you’re planning to visit soon, be on the lookout for their new restaurant, Marguita, which promises to add even more culinary excitement to the mix.

So, whether you’re staying for just a couple of nights or indulging in a longer stay, Baur au Lac offers the perfect blend of elegance and family-friendliness. Its proximity to the lake and attractions makes it an ideal home base.

Where to Eat

Zurich is known for its fancy chocolate and cheese, but don’t worry, they’ve got plenty of places where kids can eat and play without raising too many eyebrows. Here are a few of our go-to family-friendly spots:

Kafi für Dich

This spot quickly became a favorite because it’s essentially a café that doubles as a parent’s saving grace. Located in the city center, Kafi für Dich has a huge play corner where kids can run wild (or at least burn off some energy) while you enjoy a coffee in peace. Bonus: they have reduced prices for children’s meals, which means you won’t feel guilty ordering that second cappuccino.

Hiltl

The claim to fame here is that it’s the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world, but my kiddo only cares about one thing — the play trolley. It’s full of toys and crayons; they even let kids draw on the glass panes! The food is great, with plenty of options even for picky eaters, and the kid-friendly atmosphere means you can actually relax a bit while they color their hearts out.

tibits

Another veggie-friendly spot, tidbits, has a Kids’ Lounge complete with toys and coloring materials. They even serve a “Babyccino”—aka frothy milk that makes your little ones feel all grown up. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick bite without sacrificing quality or atmosphere.

Hillz Restaurant

If you’re feeling adventurous, take the train up to Uetliberg and stop by Hillz Restaurant. It has a large playground right next to it, so your kids can go wild while you enjoy a fondue with a view. And trust me, the views from up here are worth the trip — just make sure to leave room for dessert.

What to Do

Now that you’re well-fed, let’s talk activities. Zurich has no shortage of things to do with kids, and the best part is that most of them involve being outside and soaking up that fresh Swiss air.

Strandbad Tiefenbrunnen

When the summer sun is shining (and yes, Zurich does get warm!), head to Strandbad Tiefenbrunnen, our favorite badi. The lakeside swimming area has shallow spots perfect for kids, grassy areas for lounging, and a snack bar for mid-afternoon ice cream bribes. We spent many afternoons here — swimming, splashing, and just enjoying the laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Zurich Zoo

If your kids are animal lovers, then the Zurich Zoo is a must-visit. It’s one of the best zoos in Europe, and the elephant park is always a big hit. Plus, there’s a petting zoo area for younger kids, so they can get up close and personal with some friendly farm animals. It’s a full-day adventure, but it’s totally worth it.

Uetliberg Mountain

For a little fresh air and a bit of exercise, take a quick train ride up to Uetliberg Mountain. The views from the top are incredible, and plenty of easy hiking trails are perfect for families. In the winter, you can even go tobogganing down the slopes, which, as you can imagine, is a kid’s dream.

Lindt Home of Chocolate

What’s a trip to Switzerland without some chocolate? At the Lindt Home of Chocolate, your family can take part in a chocolate-making class where the kids (and you!) get to create your own chocolate bars from scratch. The interactive museum is also packed with fun facts about chocolate history, and let’s be honest — the free samples are a highlight. It’s a deliciously fun way to spend a day, and your kids will love getting hands-on with their own sweet creations.

Zurich Tram Museum

If your little ones are into vehicles, don’t miss the Zurich Tram Museum. It’s a charming museum where kids can explore old tram cars, try out the driver’s seat, and learn all about Zurich’s public transport system. There’s even a play area where they can build their own miniature tram tracks. It’s a unique slice of Zurich’s history, and who doesn’t love a museum where you can climb all over the exhibits?

Zurich may be known for its bankers and chocolates, but don’t sleep on its family-friendly side. Between the playgrounds, swimming spots, and easy access to nature, it’s the perfect place to explore with kids. Whether staying in a luxury hotel like Baur au Lac or making yourself at home in an Airbnb, Zurich has something for everyone — from toddlers to grown-ups.

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