Mt Rigi and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Boat Ride

Zurich , Switzerland

Mt Rigi and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Boat Ride

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(296 reviews)

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

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About this experience

On this full-day alpine excursion, escape Zurich and spend a glorious day in the Lake Lucerne area, exploring Mount Rigi, known as the ‘Queen of the Mountains,’ and the picturesque lakeside town of Lucerne. This tour is mostly made up of free time and self-guided activities – your guide will be with you from Zurich to Weggis, at the foot of the mountain, and then you’re free to explore the mountain and Lucerne at your leisure. Ride an aerial cable car and a cogwheel train, take in stunning views over the Swiss Alps and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Lucerne – it’s a full day of gorgeous scenery and mountain delights.

Available options

Mt. Rigi from Zürich

What's included

Partly guided tour by professional multilingual guide as per description

Boat ride from Vitznau to Lucerne

Transportation by air-conditioned coach from Zurich to Weggis and from Lucerne to Zurich

Aerial cable car, cogwheel train

Carbon-balanced operations certified by myclimate

Detailed itinerary

Departure place is at the Sihlquai Bus Station. Your full-day tour from Zurich to Mount Rigi and Lake Lucerne starts with a panoramic drive and then takes you to Weggis, a charming summer resort town on the shore of Lake Lucerne.

Your tour guide will drop you off in Weggis, where the self-guided part of your day trip begins. Board the aerial cable car to Rigi Kaltbad where you change to Europe's first ever mountain railway up to the summit Rigi-Kulm (1800m).

Stop 3

Your itinerary on Mount Rigi is flexible – you can spend 1 to 2.5 hours exploring at your own pace, using the itinerary sheets and timetables your guide will give you.
The unsurpassed views from the top of this majestic mountain to the midland with its deep blue lakes and the snowcapped mountain range will overwhelm you! A variety of well-prepared hiking trails invite for a walk and cozy alpine restaurants offer a decent selection of typical, hearty meals all accompanied by the amazing alpine panorama.

In the afternoon, descent by cogwheel train to Vitznau and board the public boat for a lovely one-hour cruise on the picturesque Lake of the Four Cantons towards Lucerne.

Stop 5

Enjoy the remaining free time exploring the medieval streets of the Old Town before meeting your tour guide for the coach journey back to Zurich.
See the famous Chapel Bridge, the Jesuit Church, and the Town Hall. Further recommendations are a visit to the Swiss Museum of Transport, the biggest museum in Switzerland or for art lovers the Rosengart Museum with works of the famous artists Picasso and Paul Klee (entry fees may apply).

Meet your tour guide at the meeting point in Lucerne for the coach journey back to Zurich in the evening.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pick-up and drop off

Meals and drinks

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

249 reviews

5★

143

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

47 reviews

5★

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

10.03-04.04.2025 | 17.11.-21.11.2025 | 24.11.-28.11.2025: the round-trip up and down Mt Rigi will be by cogwheel train due to cable car maintenance.

The tour is accompanied from Zurich to Weggis and from Lucerne to Zurich. For the individual stay in Mt Rigi and Lucerne, tickets and a written itinerary are provided.

Meeting point

The official departure point for all tours departing from Zurich is Sihlquai Bus Station, near Zurich’s main train station (Zürich HB). Please check in at least 15 minutes before departure at the “Best of Switzerland Tours” counter with your QR code on your voucher ready, printed or electronically.

Important notes

We kindly request that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure and check in at the ticket counter marked with ''Best of Switzerland Tours''. Please have your confirmation details and proof of identification (ID) ready. You may present your tour voucher either as a printed copy or electronically on your smartphone or tablet.

If you are unfamiliar with the location, we recommend allowing extra time for your journey. Should you have any difficulty finding your way, please contact us as early as possible at +41 (0)44 710 50 50. Our team is available to assist you daily from 7:00 to 21:00.

About Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and traditional Swiss charm. Nestled between the Alps and a beautiful lake, it offers a unique mix of financial hub activity and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Europe.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Altstadt)

The historic heart of Zurich, with medieval streets, charming squares, and beautiful architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

Lake Zurich

A beautiful lake offering scenic views, water activities, and relaxing walks along its shores.

Nature Half day or more Free (activities may have costs)

Uetliberg

Zurich's local mountain, offering hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to escape the city.

Nature Half day CHF 12.80 for the train ride

Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)

A comprehensive museum showcasing Swiss history, culture, and artifacts from prehistoric times to the present.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 10

Kunsthaus Zurich

One of Switzerland's most important art museums, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, often served with Rösti (Swiss potato pancake).

Main Dish Contains meat and dairy.

Rösti

A Swiss potato pancake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Side Dish Vegetarian.

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a pot, enjoyed by dipping bread into it.

Main Dish Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.

Zürcher Trout

Fresh trout from Lake Zurich, often served with lemon and herbs.

Main Dish Contains fish.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Alps Skiing at nearby resorts Paragliding over Lake Zurich Boat cruise on Lake Zurich Visiting spas and wellness centers Picnicking in parks Exploring museums and galleries Attending concerts and festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to February

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, lake swimming, and festivals. Winter brings Christmas markets and skiing opportunities. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

15-25°C, -2-5°C 59-77°F, 28-41°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Zurich is generally very safe with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Zurich Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Zurich Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Carparkplatz Oerlikon, Carparkplatz Triemli

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are efficient, punctual, and cover most of the city's attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi 433

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Altstadt) Zurich West Kreis 5 (District 5) Kreis 4 (District 4)

Day trips

Lucerne

60 km from Zurich • Full day

A picturesque city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the famous Chapel Bridge, and its location on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Rapperswil

40 km from Zurich • Half day

A charming town known as the 'Town of Roses' and its historic castle, offering beautiful views of Lake Zurich.

Mount Titlis

60 km from Zurich • Full day

A popular ski and hiking destination in the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views and year-round activities.

Festivals

Zurich Christmas Market • Late November to late December Sechseläuten • Third weekend in April Zurich Film Festival • Late September to early October

Pro tips

Purchase a Zurich Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions
Visit the Old Town early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the historic atmosphere
Take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich for stunning views and a relaxing experience
Explore Zurich West for a trendy and creative vibe with unique shops and restaurants
Try Swiss chocolate and pastries at Confiserie Sprüngli, a must-visit for chocolate lovers