A family winter journey through Switzerland— Rhine falls & scenic cities
Switzerland Winter Journey
- oursixfootprints_admin
- Dec 2022
Quiet Winter Moments Across Switzerland
Switzerland’s beauty is something you feel right away. From snowy mountain views to quiet city streets, everything felt calm, simple, and quietly beautiful. This was our family journey across Zurich, Lucerne, and beyond.
Along the way, we discovered a different side of winter in Switzerland, peaceful and unhurried. Fewer crowds, crisp air, and just enough space to pause, take in the views, and be present in the moment.
Day 1: Arrival in Zurich (20 Dec)
Our Swiss journey began the moment we landed in Zurich after a long flight, with a short layover in Doha along the way. Everything felt surprisingly easy from the start, the transfer was smooth, and before long, we were checking in at Ibis City Center.
The hotel was simple but just what we needed. Clean, comfortable, and within walking distance to transport and shops, it made settling in feel effortless. Nothing fancy, but quietly reassuring after a long travel day.
We kept the evening light with a simple local dinner nearby, warm, filling, and exactly right for the mood. No rushing, no plans to tick off. Just easing into a new country, one step at a time, before drifting into our first night in Switzerland.
Day 2 – Discovering Zurich (21 Dec)
A day in Zurich unfolds with vibrant city sights, tranquil lakeside moments, a ferry ride across shimmering waters, and a peaceful escape up at Felsenegg. It’s the kind of experience that lingers quietly memorable, yet full of character.
Day 3 – Lucerne & Mt. Titlis (23 Dec)
From the Lion Monument to Lucerne’s lakeside and the peaks of Mt. Titlis, this day was filled with gentle views, mountain air, and simple family moments.
Day 4 – Rhine Falls & Stein am Rhein
A rainy day at Rhine Falls, followed by the storybook charm of Stein am Rhein, powerful views, quiet streets, and a journey that balanced both beautifully.
Day 5 – Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe
A journey to Jungfraujoch through clouds, snow, and silence. Not a perfect weather day, but one filled with unforgettable moments at the Top of Europe.
Day 6 – A Free Day in Zurich
After days of exploring, we finally slowed down and let Zurich breathe around us. We wandered through quiet streets, paused to admire little corners, berries clinging to winter vines, stone towers watching over passing trams, and simply took things as they came.
We ended up at McDonald’s, happily digging into fries like people who had earned a simple comfort meal. Sometimes, travel joy hides in the small, slightly silly moments, not the perfect ones.
Later, we browsed for souvenirs, drifted through cosy cafés, and ended our walk by the lake once more. Zurich felt festive yet peaceful, giving us space to slow down and reflect.
This day marked our final chapter in Switzerland. The next morning, we would board a train bound for Paris, leaving behind calm lakes and alpine air, and stepping into a new rhythm altogether.
Quick Highlights
Duration: 6 days across Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, and surrounding regions
Best for: Family travel, scenic landscapes, mountain experiences
Best Time to Visit: Winter, for snowy views, festive charm, and fewer crowds
- Travel Style: Mix of guided tours, scenic train rides, and city walks
Highlights of the Journey
- Zurich Old Town & Lake Zurich
- Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge & Lion Monument
- Mt. Titlis snow experience & glacier views
- Rhine Falls (Europe’s largest waterfall)
- Stein am Rhein medieval village & frescoed houses
- Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe & Aletsch Glacier
- Scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps