Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise

Lucerne , Switzerland

Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise

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(1259 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Enjoy a day of Alpine adventure in Switzerland on this half-day, summer trip to Mt Pilatus from Lucerne. Begin your journey toward the skies with a 30-minute panoramic gondola ride to Fräkmüntegg, and then hop aboard the aerial cableway for your ascent to the summit of Mt Pilatus. Relax at your leisure on the peak or take a short hike to make the most of the stunning scenery below. Descend to Alpnachstad aboard the world's steepest cogwheel train and cruise out onto Lake Lucerne to admire the views from the water.

Available options

Standard tour

What's included

1-hour boat ride on Lake Lucerne (until 18.10.2026)

Panoramic gondola and aerial cable car "Dragon Ride" (except from 19.10. - 27.11.2026)

Fully guided tour by professional multilingual guide as per description

Lunch voucher up to 20 CHF (from 19.10. - 29.11.2026)

Steepest cogwheel train in the world

Transportation in comfortable coach with AC

Carbon-balanced operations certified by myclimate

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Meet your guide in central Lucerne in the early afternoon.

Stop 2

Hop aboard your comfortable coach for the short journey to Kriens, at the foot of the imposing Mt Pilatus. On arrival, begin your ascent to the mountain’s lofty summit with a 30-minute panoramic gondola ride to the Fräkmüntegg terminus. Enjoy beautiful views over the rolling hills and lush pine forests below.

At Fräkmüntegg, hop aboard the aerial tramway — a spacious and modern cabin with panoramic windows designed to give the feeling of flight. Continue your climb to the summit at a dizzying altitude of 7,000 feet, and take in spectacular views over the Alpine peaks and lakes from your vantage point on the mountain.

During your free time atop Mt Pilatus, perhaps sit down to a high-altitude lunch among the peaks (own expense) or relax on the expansive sun terrace. Venture down the Dragon's Path and take a short hike around the summit to enjoy the amazing views.

Take the world's steepest cogwheel train down to Alpnachstad, descending past trickling mountain streams and sheer rock faces toward the verdant, green meadows below.

Stop 4

Conclude your tour with a picturesque 1-hour boat ride across lovely Lake Lucerne and enjoy the spectacular scenery from an entirely different angle.

Stop 5 Pass by

At the end of the cruise, your tour ends back in Lucerne.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Hotel pickup and drop off

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

970 reviews

5★

688

4★

165

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

289 reviews

5★

230

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

19.10.-27.11.2026: Ascent and descent by cogwheel train, no boat ride but lunch voucher included

28.11.-29.11.2026: Ascent by cable car, descent by cogwheel train, no boat ride but lunch voucher included

Meeting point

Please wait there on the sidewalk and look out for the tour guide of Best of Switzerland Tours.

Important notes

We kindly ask you to arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes prior to departure and to wait on the sidewalk, where your tour guide will pick you up. Please have your confirmation details and proof of identification (ID) ready. You may present your tour voucher either printed or electronically on your smartphone or tablet.

If you are not familiar with the location, please allow extra time for your arrival. If you have any difficulties finding your way, please call us as early as possible at +41 (0)44 710 50 50.

About Lucerne

Lucerne, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The city is famous for its iconic Chapel Bridge, picturesque lakeside setting, and vibrant cultural scene.

Top Attractions

Chapel Bridge

The Chapel Bridge is an iconic wooden bridge dating back to the 14th century, offering stunning views of the Reuss River and the city.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lucerne, accessible by the world's steepest cogwheel railway.

Nature Half to full day CHF 70-100 for the round trip

Lion Monument

The Lion Monument is a powerful and moving sculpture carved into a sandstone cliff, commemorating the Swiss Guards who died in the French Revolution.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rösti

A Swiss specialty made from grated potatoes, often served as a side dish or with various toppings.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian

Fondue

A traditional Swiss dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot, enjoyed with bread and pickles.

Dinner Contains dairy

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

A Swiss dish made with thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, typically served with Rösti.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Paragliding Boat tours on Lake Lucerne Spa treatments Visiting museums Attending concerts and festivals Swimming

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Lucerne is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Zurich Airport • 50 km (31 miles)

By train

Lucerne Railway Station

By bus

Lucerne Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The VBL bus network covers the entire city and surrounding areas, with frequent services and easy connections.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi App

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Neustadt

Day trips

Mount Titlis

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Mount Titlis offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Rigi Mountain

30 km (19 miles) • Half to full day

Rigi Mountain, also known as the 'Queen of the Mountains,' offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne.

Festivals

Lucerne Festival • August to September Lucerne Carnival • February/March

Pro tips

Visit the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Take a boat tour on Lake Lucerne for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Explore the nearby Swiss Alps and mountain destinations, such as Mount Pilatus and Mount Titlis, for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures.
Try traditional Swiss dishes, such as Rösti, Fondue, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, at local restaurants and eateries.
Shop for unique souvenirs, such as Swiss chocolate, watches, and handmade crafts, at the boutique shops in Old Town.