Mother (78) and two daughters (50+) need guidance - please advise.

Directly underneath the Zurich Airport is the Flughafen train station. The train from there to Lucerne is a little over an hour. With that in mind, I would strongly suggest that you consider going directly to Lucerne, instead of spending the night in Zurich. The Swiss train system is very user friendly, so that journey would not be difficult after a long flight, and you can rest in Lucerne. That will also eliminate a one night stay. My other suggestion is that you stay in either Wengen or Murren, rather than Lauterbrunnen. There is nothing like waking up in the mountains, and it's very easy to travel to the mountain towns from either of those locations. Our stay in Wengen was a highlight of our trip to Switzerland. I can recommend the short cable car trip from Wengen to Mannlichen. Another favorite of ours was the easy, paved walk from Murren to the cute village of Gimmelwald. Have a wonderful time with your daughters!

If all you are going to do in Zurich is sleep and then go to Lucerne the next day, I agree with TravelBug79 you should go directly there from the airport. Honestly, I would skip Bern and spend a day in Zurich instead if you want city time. The Lindt Chocolate tour was fun (if you like chocolate) and I enjoyed walking around the Old Town. But it’s definitely worth it to spend more time in Wengen/Murren. It’s so beautiful it doesn’t look real.

I know that June is ages away, but have you looked at flights yet? Do you have any idea of arrival times inbound and the departure flight time? Things are quite close and that will cut down on one-nighters.

Wow, some great suggestions - thank you all so much. The detail is so helpful especially from folks who have actually experienced these places. Very helpful, thanks so much.

Most flights (from US) arrive in Zurich by lunch time giving enough time to get to your destination the same day. The most frustrating thing for my trips has been the disruption moving to the next lodging location instead of heading off to a fun activity. Also, review the regional pass offerings to help determine your itinerary. The Berner Oberland Pass or the Jungfrau Travel Pass alone or combined will give you more than week of activities. Early June some mountain attractions maybe still be closed and others may just be opening during your trip. Finally, try to fit in a boat ride.

I think heading right to Lucerne from the airport is good advice, and I also agree with staying at elevation in a place like Murren.

I would absolutely make time for Bern, it's a charmer. We particularly like the rooftop at the Best Western at dusk. Places like the park near the public pools are perfect for a picnic, and overall, it's just a great walkable city to stroll. Tons of character.

For your final night, I would stay in the old town in Zurich, not near the airport. There is easily enough to keep you busy for your final day, and the historic center is a great place for a farewell dinner. It's very simple to find a ride to the airport when it's time to leave and not far. Speak with your hotel about arranging a scheduled pickup.

We commuted from Bern to the airport. As I remember, it's about an hour train ride. Swiss trains are dependable, run often, and are a joy to use. You don't need to sleep in Zurich just for the return flight. And- we had an early flight, and all worked out well.
Have a great trip in this beautiful country!