For a great daytrip option, you don’t even have to head out far. The local Uetliberg mountain is just 20 minutes away, on the outskirts of Zurich. From the summit, you have a magnificent panoramic view over the city and the lake all the way to the Alps!

People love hitting up this spot, especially in November when Uetliberg's summit often peeks out above Zurich's high-fog blanket. And in winter those hiking trails turn into fun toboggan runs (you have to bring your own sleds or plastic tubes, there is no rental here).

There is also a look out tower, which you can climb up to the top for 5 CHF. the view is not exactly better, its more for the novelty!

There is a sit-down restaurant, the Uto Kulm, with a romantic outdoor terrace, as well as a snack stand for the usual bratwurst and fries.

If you are thinking of doing a hike during summer, there’s plenty to discover on well-marked hiking routes, a mountain bike route, and on the Planet Trail. This two-hour walk ends at Felsenegg (Adliswil) and takes you on a fascinating tour through a model of the solar system! It’s a lovely stroll through forests and farmland, with occasional views of Zurich lake and the alps, and I think it is a very feasible hike for beginner hikers and families.

How to get here:

To get to Uetliberg, you can take the local S10 to Uetliberg station, (30 minutes). Follow the crowd up a short road (about 10 mins, stroller friendly) to the lookout point!