Best Things to Do in Zurich with kids
I am thrilled to have Kate from Mom in Zurich sharing the best things to do in her city. Kate is a US expat living in Zurich and knows the city inside and out. These are her choices for the best things to do in Zurich with kids.
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What to do in Zurich with kids
There are so many beautiful cities in Switzerland, and Zurich is one that shouldn’t be left off your travel itinerary. With wonderful restaurants, a charming Old Town, and a beautiful lake meant to be explored, we are sure you will love Zurich with kids.
1. Lindenhof
Lindenhof is a public park on a hill in the center of Zurich. There is a wonderful buzz here with playgrounds, bocce ball, chess, and an amazing view overlooking the city. We like to wander around the cobblestone streets of old town Zurich, grab a coffee at ViCafe, then take in the view while the kids play in the playground. It’s also a great place to take pictures.
Photo: Mom in Zurich
2. Confiserie Sprüngli
Confiserie Sprüngli was founded in 1836 and they are world famous for their signature macarons called “Luxemburgerli.” This gorgeous cafe is located in the hub of the famous shopping street, the Bahnhofstrasse, at the Paradaplatz.
We like to walk upstairs and sit overlooking the busy street below. This is our favorite place for hot chocolate. Downstairs at the chocolate shop, they offer the children a free Luxemburgerli to try. Take a look at their gorgeous cake display. Our favorite is their chocolate truffle cake.
3. China Garden
Take a boat from the Burkliplatz boat station and get off at the China Garden. The boat ride is a wonderful way to see the city and Lake Zurich.
We like to get off at China Garden and let the kids play in the playground and along the lake before getting gelato at Gelati am See. The flavors are unique and they give the kids a little toy animal on top of their ice cream.
4. Uetliberg
Get an incredible view high above the entire city of Zurich and beyond at Uetliberg, a mountain in the city. Take a very short train ride from the Zurich main train station to Uetliberg.
This is a quick day trip from Zurich and easy to do in a short amount of time. Climb up the observation tower for an incredible view or walk from Uetliberg to Felsenegg along the Planet Trail.
5. Zurich Zoo
The Zurich Zoo is always an easy hit with the kids. Our tip is to eat at the Cafe that is right before the entrance to the zoo as it is less crowded and I actually like the food better. We order quiche, soup, or pasta and then wander around the gift shop afterward. Then we head into the zoo.
If you plan to be in Zurich on a Sunday, the elephant breakfast and brunch is a really fun way to spend the day at the zoo. Get more details and book ahead here.
Where to Stay in Zurich with kids
If you are visiting Zurich with kids, there are some fabulous centrally located hotels. We recommend Marktgasse Hotel, Storchen Zürich (with family rooms that sleep 5-6 people), and Hotel Rossli. There are also many family-friendly vacation rentals in Zurich.
About the author: Kate is the founder of Mom In Zurich, a family travel blog inspiring families to travel the world. She and her three children are from the USA but now live in Switzerland. She and her family love to explore all the seasonal activities in Zurich. .
