By rail through Switzerland: Zurich, Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland

This is where your journey begins. From Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof you travel direct by train towards Switzerland.

The lakeside promenade at Bürkliplatz makes for a relaxed start: wide views across Lake Zurich, boats, ducks and, in summer, swimming spots nearby. There is plenty of room for the children to run about, plus ice cream on the waterfront.

A solid mid-range hotel just a few minutes on foot from the main station, ideal for a car-free rail trip. Family rooms and good public transport links make settling in easy.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

Through the lanes of the old town to Lindenhof, with views over the Limmat and the city’s rooftops. A leisurely stroll with fountains, small shops and benches for a rest.

Zurich’s local mountain, easily reached by S-Bahn, offers sweeping views over the city, the lake and, on clear days, as far as the Alps. A short, family-friendly path leads from the station to the viewing tower.

The wooden Kapellbrücke with its water tower is Lucerne’s landmark and leads straight into the charming old town with its painted façades. A great start to a few relaxed days by the lake.

A classic hotel right opposite the station and close to the lakeshore, perfect for excursions without a car. Family-friendly, with short walks to the boat trips.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

Take the scheduled boat across Lake Lucerne to Alpnachstad, passing bays and steep shorelines along the way. For the children, the boat trip itself is already an adventure.

The steepest cogwheel railway in the world carries you up to Pilatus, with panoramic views over lakes and Alps. At the top there are short, well-secured walking paths and a small adventure trail for children.

The wide meadow of the Höhematte, with views of the Jungfrau, is perfect for arriving and taking a breather. Along the Höheweg there is ice cream, souvenirs and space for the children to play.

A family-run hotel just a few minutes from Interlaken West station, a good base for excursions into the Lauterbrunnen valley and to Grindelwald. Friendly rooms and warm service.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

The Lauterbrunnen valley, with its sheer rock walls and the Staubbachfall, is one of the most impressive valleys in the Alps. A flat, family-friendly valley path runs alongside meadows and waterfalls.

Inside the mountain, the glacial waterfalls of the Trümmelbach thunder away, accessible via tunnels and a lift. An exciting, cool natural experience that impresses children.

The gondola lift carries you up to First, with sweeping views of the Eiger and Wetterhorn. Families can walk to the deep-blue Bachalpsee in a good hour; at the top, the Cliff Walk and play areas await.

A short final stroll and a coffee before heading home, then it is on to the train towards Stuttgart.

Arrival back at your starting point: this is where your round trip through Switzerland comes to an end.