Mt. Pilatus Summer Day Trip from Zurich

FromCHF 169
9 hours
Zurich, Switzerland

About this activity

Experience a full-day adventure from Zurich to Mt. Pilatus, featuring a scenic boat cruise, a thrilling cogwheel train ride, and a visit to Lucerne's historic sites.

Highlights

  • Scenic Lake Lucerne boat cruise
  • Ride the world's steepest cogwheel train
  • Breathtaking panoramic mountain views
  • Explore Lucerne's charming old town
  • Visit the historic Chapel Bridge

Full description

Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Switzerland on this exhilarating day trip from Zurich. Begin with a picturesque boat cruise across Lake Lucerne, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Upon arrival, ascend to Mt. Pilatus via the world's steepest cogwheel train, reaching the summit for panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. After descending, explore Lucerne's charming old town, where you'll find landmarks like the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. This tour seamlessly combines adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking the best of Switzerland in a single day.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Zurich
  • Lake Lucerne boat cruise
  • Cogwheel train ride to Mt. Pilatus summit
  • Meals and beverages

Meeting point

Start Location

Best of Switzerland Tours AG, Sihlquai Bus Station, Limmatstrasse 2, 8005 Zürich, Switzerland

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates in all weather conditions; cancellations are rare.
  • Children under 6 years old can join for free if seated on a parent's lap.
  • Please inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a light jacket, as temperatures can vary at higher elevations.
  • Check the weather forecast before departure to ensure optimal conditions.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • 19.10.-27.11.2026: Ascent and descent by cogwheel train, no boat ride but lunch voucher included
  • 28.-29.11.2026: Ascent by cable car, descent by cogwheel train, no boat ride but lunch voucher included

Traveler reviews

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Awesome tour!

This was a very well organized tour and Bernie was a great tour guide making sure that everyone felt included while managing a huge group. We truly enjoyed the combination of the cable car and the lake and we had an amazing time at all stops!

Marcelino_ZAug 17, 2026VIATOR

It is a must to do!!

Amazing experience!! So well organized!! It is a must to do in Switzerland!! Fernando and Marianne were amazing and we learned a lot from them!!

379snejanabAug 16, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Absolutely beautiful...

Absolutely beautiful sights worth a very well coordinated itinerary including enough leisure time and stops to enjoy all the sights + a cave. Would highly recommend for everyone!!!

Eugenia_TAug 15, 2026VIATOR

Our guide Victor was very...

Our guide Victor was very informative and kept us all on track timewise. The tour is very organized and I am so glad we did the whole day package.

Valerie_sAug 14, 2026VIATOR

Great day in Switzerland

The excursion was great. The tour director was wonderful. I wasn't feeling well and she kept checking up on me. Very impressed with her knowledge and skills.

wilkdAug 14, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

20.10.-07.11.2025: Ascent and descent by cogwheel train, no boat ride but lunch voucher included 08.11.-14.11.2025: Ascent by cable car, descent by cogwheel train, no boat ride but lunch voucher included