Explore the spectacular Swiss Alps on this day trip to Mount Pilatus from Zurich. Hike to the peak, travel on the world's steepest cogwheel train and ride a panoramic cable car for unparalleled views over the mountains.
Day Trip Details
We'll depart from the Sihlquai Bus Terminal parking lot at the indicated time and travel by bus to Lucerne, enjoying magnificent views of the Swiss Alps along the way.
Before arriving at our destination, the guide will point out the city's most important sights, such as the Chapel Bridge and the Jesuit Church. You'll then have free time in Lucerne to explore its beautiful Old Town at your own pace.
After visiting Lucerne, you'll hop back on the bus and continue on your journey to Kriens, where you'll take a cable car ride. From your gondola, you'll have spectacular views over the mystical forests of Krienseregg as you travel up the mountainside to Fräkmüntegg. There, you'll climb aboard the Dragon Ride, an aerial cableway whose panoramic windows will give you the breathtaking feeling that you're flying over the Swiss Alps.
Once you've reached the top of Mount Pilatus, at almost 7,000 feet in height (2,131 metres), you'll have the choice between walking down the mysterious Dragon Trail or enjoying the short hike to the summit. Don't forget your camera to take photos of the incomparable views of the lakes and mountains around you! You'll also have free time to eat lunch at one of the restaurants on Mount Pilatus.
Having explored Mount Pilatus to your heart's content, it'll be time to head back down the mountain. You'll descend to Alpnachstad on the steepest cogwheel train the world, before putting the finishing touch on an unforgettable day enjoying a boat cruise on the Lake of the Four Cantons to see the Swiss Alps from a new perspective.
Finally, you'll return to your original meeting point in Zurich after a total of 10 hours
Itinerary Adjustments
The itinerary will experience adjustments during the following dates:
- October 19 to November 27, 2026: the ascent and descent will be made by rack railway and there will be no boat trip. In this case, a meal voucher will be included.
- On November 28 and 29, 2026: the ascent will be made by cable car and the descent by rack railway. There will be no boat trip, but a meal voucher valid for restaurants on Mount Piltatus will be included. The value of this voucher is 20CHF for adults and 10CHF for children.
