Weekend in Zurich
This weekend itinerary focuses on combining Zurich's vibrant outdoor spaces and engaging community activities with some of its top kid-friendly attractions. We've balanced free park visits and nature walks with exciting places like the Zoo and a children's museum, ensuring a diverse and memorable experience for families. Transportation notes consider stroller accessibility and public transport options, which are excellent in Zurich. Please note that specific event timings and details for October 2025 may require checking closer to the date for final confirmation, especially for community events and workshops. Prices are estimated for a family of four (two adults, two children aged 3-12) and are subject to change.
Friday Evening - Lakeside Family Fun
Friday, October 3Park Playground Fun
Kick off the weekend at the spacious and engaging Chinagarten playground, a favorite among local families.
It offers diverse play structures suitable for various ages, including swings, slides, and climbing frames, set within the beautiful surroundings of the Chinese Garden.
Perfect for energetic kids to unwind after the school week. The playground has ample space to run around, benches for parents, and restrooms nearby. It's suitable for ages 3-12. Stroller accessible paths throughout the garden.
Easily reachable by tram (line 2 or 4 to 'Chinagarten'). Limited paid street parking might be available nearby, but public transport is recommended.
Lakeside Dinner Picnic
Enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly picnic dinner by Lake Zurich.
Pick up some fresh bread, local cheeses, cold cuts, and fruits from a local supermarket (e.g., Coop or Migros) and find a scenic spot along the promenade near the Chinagarten. The evening views of the lake and city are beautiful.
Kids will love the freedom of eating outdoors by the water. Bring a blanket and enjoy the swans and ducks. Plenty of space for kids to wander safely (under supervision). Public restrooms are available along the promenade. This is a great early dinner option before bedtime.
Continue from Chinagarten on foot along the promenade. Public transport access is the same as for Chinagarten.
Saturday - Wild Wonders & City Exploration
Saturday, October 4Zurich Zoo Adventure
Spend the morning exploring the famous Zurich Zoo, home to over 380 species.
Highlights for kids include the Masoala Rainforest, Lewa Savanna, and the Australian enclosure. The zoo focuses on natural habitats and conservation, offering an educational and exciting experience for all ages.
The Zoo is highly stroller-friendly with wide paths and many facilities, including family restrooms and changing stations. There are several playgrounds within the zoo. Allow at least 3-4 hours. Suitable for all ages, but particularly captivating for 3-12 year olds. Pack snacks and drinks to save on costs, though food options are available.
Take tram 6 from Central to 'Zoo' (approximately 15 minutes). The tram stop is right at the entrance. Parking is available at the Zoo's multi-story car park (fees apply).
Zoo Restaurant Lunch
Have a convenient and family-friendly lunch at one of the Zoo's restaurants, such as the Restaurant Pantanal.
They offer a range of options from quick snacks to warm meals, with kid-friendly choices available. It's a good spot to rest tired feet before continuing the adventure.
Offers indoor and outdoor seating. Good facilities for families with young children, including high chairs. Menu includes typical Swiss fare, pasta, and lighter options. This is a practical choice given its location within the zoo.
Located inside Zoo Zurich, easily accessible on foot from anywhere within the park.
Rietberg Museum & Park Play
After the zoo, head to the beautiful Rietberg Museum, Switzerland's only museum dedicated to non-European art.
The museum is surrounded by a stunning park (Rietberg Park or Rieterpark), which is perfect for children to explore. While the museum's main exhibits might be less engaging for young kids, they sometimes have family-friendly workshops (check their website closer to the date). The main attraction here for kids is the expansive park.
The park offers plenty of space for kids to run, beautiful trees, and sculptures. There are often ducks in the ponds that kids enjoy watching. While the museum itself is free for the permanent collection, special exhibitions might have a fee. The museum is stroller-accessible. Restrooms are available in the museum. Best for a relaxed afternoon.
Take tram 7 to 'Museum Rietberg' or 'Waffenplatz'. It's a short walk from either stop. Limited street parking might be available.
Gelateria Treat & Stroll
End your adventurous Saturday with a delicious scoop of gelato from a local gelateria near Enge.
There are several charming ice cream parlors in the area, perfect for a sweet treat as a reward for a day of exploring. Enjoy your ice cream while taking a leisurely stroll back towards the lake or your transport.
A perfect wind-down activity for kids! Allows for a moment of quiet enjoyment after a busy day. Many flavors available, including fruit sorbets. Look for one of the Gelateria di Berna locations for highly-rated artisanal ice cream.
Easily walkable from Museum Rietberg. Various tram stops in Enge can connect you to other parts of the city.
Sunday - Creative Minds & Nature Walks
Sunday, October 5Sunday Farmers Market
Visit a local Sunday farmers market, such as the one at Bürkliplatz (if operating in early October - some are seasonal, check closer to date), or a smaller neighborhood market.
These markets offer fresh produce, local delicacies, and often have food stalls where you can grab a simple, affordable brunch or snack. It's a lively atmosphere for families to browse.
Kids enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds, and trying samples. Great for picking up some fresh fruit or a local pastry for a casual family brunch. Stroller-friendly. Public restrooms are available in the area. Focus on browsing and affordable treats.
Bürkliplatz is a major public transport hub, easily accessible by tram (lines 2, 8, 9, 11) and bus. Underground parking is available at Parkhaus Opéra, but public transport is recommended.
Lindenhof Hill Views & Play
Take a leisurely walk up to Lindenhof Hill, a historic and serene public park offering panoramic views over the Limmat River, the Old Town, and Grossmünster Church.
It's a wonderful spot for kids to run around on the grass and for families to enjoy the scenery and history. There's also a small playground area nearby.
The walk up is gentle and manageable with strollers. Kids can play on the open lawn, making it a relaxed option. There are no specific facilities other than benches, but the view is a fantastic photo opportunity. Public restrooms can be found in the nearby city center. Suitable for winding down the weekend.
From Bürkliplatz, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk through the charming Old Town. Alternatively, take tram 4 or 15 to 'Rennweg' and walk a short distance uphill.
Family Pizza Night
Conclude your weekend with an early, relaxed family pizza dinner.
Many pizzerias in Zurich offer kid-friendly atmospheres and delicious, affordable options. Look for a local favorite with a 'family deal' or simply enjoy individual pizzas. It's an easy and universally loved meal for kids before heading home to prepare for the school week.
Pizza is always a hit with kids! Choose a place with comfortable seating and a relaxed ambiance. High chairs are typically available. This early dinner ensures kids are home and settled before it gets too late. Consider a place that also offers takeaway if preferred.
Depending on your chosen pizzeria, easily accessible by Zurich's efficient public transport system (trams/buses) or a short walk from Lindenhof and the city center.
This weekend itinerary for Zurich can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.