Activities for children in Neuchâtel
Nestled on the shores of Switzerland's largest entirely Swiss lake, Neuchâtel charms families with its historic center of yellow stone, its castle, and its Collegiate Church that overlooks the old town. Between the lake and the first slopes of the Jura, the city offers an ideal setting to share discoveries with children throughout the year.
Whether you are looking for an idea for a Wednesday afternoon, a family weekend, or school holidays, Neuchâtel offers a wide variety of experiences suitable for all ages. Interactive museums, walks along the water, swimming in summer, nature outings to the Jura, or indoor sports activities: everyone can find something to keep the children entertained and create beautiful memories.
Easily accessible by train or car and ideally located in the heart of the Three Lakes region, Neuchâtel appeals to both local residents and visiting families. This page brings together a selection of children's activities in Neuchâtel to help you find inspiration for your next family outing.
Our selection of family activities to do in Neuchâtel
10 activities for children
Adventure Park Chaumont
On the heights of Neuchâtel, the Parc Aventure Chaumont welcomes you for a day in the trees, from toddlers to teenagers. Thirteen treetop courses, over twenty zip lines, and everything you need to climb safely, right next to the funicular station.
Panoramic tour of Chaumont
On the heights of Neuchâtel, the Chaumont panoramic tower offers a 360-degree view of the Three Lakes and the Alps. It is easily accessible by funicular, making it a simple nature outing for the whole family.
Chaumont Playground
At the arrival of the funicular, on the heights of Neuchâtel, this large playground welcomes you in a clearing with a view of the Trois-Lacs. People come here to let the little ones run freely, just a stone's throw from the treetop adventure park.
Littoral Ice Rinks
On the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, the Patinoires du Littoral welcome you and your family for public skating sessions starting in the fall. Two covered rinks, skates available for rent on-site: everything is ready for a successful ice outing.
Pools of Nid-du-Crô
By the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, the Piscines du Nid-du-Crô bring together indoor pools, a large outdoor area, and a pebble beach. An ideal spot for a family day, whether it rains or shines.
Neuchâtel Natural History Museum
In the heart of Neuchâtel, the Muséum (MHNN) showcases Switzerland's wildlife in life-sized dioramas. A perfect outing for families, and you can even enjoy a snack under a whale skeleton.
Neuchâtel Botanical Garden
In the heart of Neuchâtel, the Botanical Garden combines tropical greenhouses, thematic gardens, and nature trails. A family outing in the great outdoors, with free admission.
Kidz Moove Area
A large covered play space just steps from the centre of Neuchâtel, designed so children aged 1 to 12 can let off steam safely — while parents relax at the snack corner.
LNM Cruises on the Three Lakes departing from Neuchâtel
Board at the port of Neuchâtel for a cruise on the lakes of Neuchâtel, Morat, and Bienne. An outing along the water that delights the whole family, from the little ones to the older ones.
Kidz Moove Area
A large indoor play area just steps away from the center of Neuchâtel, designed for children aged 1 to 12 to expend their energy safely — while parents relax at the snack corner.
Why choose Neuchâtel for a family outing?
Neuchâtel has many assets that make it an ideal destination for families. Its human-sized city center, lively shores, and rich heritage provide an environment conducive to discoveries and activities suitable for children.
The castle and the Collegiate Church, which overlook the old town, are among the iconic sites of Neuchâtel. Their cobbled surroundings, viewpoints over the lake, and nearby promenades offer an ideal setting to awaken the curiosity of the youngest while enjoying a moment with the family. The old town, with its yellow stone facades and historic fountains, is easily explored on foot through its alleys.
The shores of Lake Neuchâtel are another favored spot for families. Between walks along the water, green spaces, designated swimming beaches in the summer, and cruises on the Three Lakes, the shores are often the starting point for a lovely day with the children.
The city also benefits from a rich cultural offering accessible to families. Several museums, such as the Natural History Museum or the Laténium, a nearby archaeology park and museum, offer pathways designed to spark children's curiosity and make discovery fun.
The natural environment is another strong point. Just a few minutes from the center, families can reach the heights of Chaumont by funicular, go for a walk in the Jura forests, or discover spectacular natural sites like the Areuse gorges or the Creux du Van. This proximity between city, lake, and mountains allows for easy alternation between outdoor activities, discoveries, and moments of relaxation.
Finally, its central position in the Three Lakes region makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surroundings. Families can easily combine a trip to Neuchâtel with discovering neighboring municipalities, the shores of Lake Murten and Lake Biel, or the wine-growing villages along the Neuchâtel shoreline.
Whether you live in the region or are just passing through, Neuchâtel offers a particularly favorable environment for family outings. With its historical heritage, lake, preserved nature, and activities for children, the city brings together many advantages for sharing quality moments with family throughout the year.
