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 leave the Sihlquai Bus Terminal parking lot at the designated time. You'll set off in the direction of Lucerne by bus, crossing over the Albis Pass and drive alongside the banks of the Lake of the Four Cantons. During the journey, you'll make a stop to take photos of the stunning Alpine landscapes, before reaching the city itself. Here your guide will take the opportunity to tell you all about its most important places of interest, like 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 9.5 hours
Itinerary Adjustments
The itinerary will experience adjustments during the following dates:
- Dragon Ride cable car: Open throughout the year, except between October 20 and November 7, 2025, as it will be closed for maintenance. During this time, the ascent and descent will be done via the cogwheel train.
- Boat trip: Only available between May 12 and November, 20205. Please note that between October 20 and November 14, 2025, this trip will be replaced with a food ticket.
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