3 Swiss Mountains in 1 Day: Cable Cars, Funiculars & Lake Cruise

Travel from the bustling heart of Zurich into the peaceful landscapes of central Switzerland by train to Stans. As the train glides along the shimmering Lake Zurich and Zug we'll travel through rolling countryside dotted with traditional Swiss villages. The route offers lovely glimpses of Mount Rigi and the surrounding pre-Alpine peaks

Glide up the lower slopes of the Stanserhorn on a charming wooden funicular from 1893, one of the oldest still in operation. Enjoy a nostalgic journey through meadows and traditional Swiss chalets, with the feeling of stepping back in time.

Transfer to the world’s first double-deck, roofless cable car: the Cabrio. Stand on the open-air upper deck and feel the fresh alpine breeze while you rise high above forests, ridges, and cow pastures. The panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps are simply unforgettable.

At 1,898 meters, the summit offers sweeping 360-degree views of ten lakes, countless mountain peaks, and the central Swiss lowlands. Stroll along the flower trail, meet the friendly marmots, or relax on the terrace with a coffee while soaking in one of Switzerland’s most iconic vistas.

Begin your ascent to the second mountain with a scenic ride on the cablecar from Morschach. Floating high above the valley, the cableway reveals sweeping views of Lake Lucerne and the rugged alpine terrain.

Arrive in the tranquil car-free mountain village of Stoos, set on a sunny plateau. Here, traditional chalets, peaceful walking paths, and breathtaking alpine scenery invite you to pause and take in the fresh mountain air.

Visit the charming mountain chapel, a picturesque symbol of the village and a quiet place of reflection. With its backdrop of peaks and meadows, the Bergkapelle is a true alpine postcard scene.

Conclude your visit with a ride on the world’s steepest funicular railway, descending toward Schwyz at gradients of up to 110%. The futuristic cabins level themselves as you glide smoothly down the mountainside—an engineering marvel and a thrill in itself.

Climb the slopes of the “Queen of the Mountains” aboard Europe’s first mountain railway. The nostalgic cogwheel train carries you through meadows and forests as the views over Lake Lucerne and the Alps open wider with every turn.

At Rigi Kulm (1,798 m), enjoy a 360-degree panorama stretching from the snowcapped Alps to the Swiss Plateau and across 13 glittering lakes. It’s one of Switzerland’s most celebrated viewpoints.

For those who wish, follow the gentle trail from Rigi Kulm down to Rigi Kaltbad. This classic ridge walk combines sweeping alpine vistas with wildflower meadows and fresh mountain air.

Descend by aerial cable car to the lakeside village of Weggis, gliding above vineyards and traditional farmhouses. At the bottom, the sparkling waters of Lake Lucerne await.

End the day with a relaxing boat ride across Lake Lucerne. From Weggis, glide past bays, vineyards, and forested hillsides, with the mountains mirrored in the water. The journey back to Lucerne is a peaceful finale, offering time to sit back on deck and enjoy the scenery from a new perspective. For those who wish, a quick dinner can be enjoyed in the on-board restaurant while cruising.

If you still have energy after the day’s mountain adventures, take a short walk through Lucerne’s charming Old Town. Cross the famous Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), admire the colorful frescoed houses, or simply enjoy the lively lakeside promenade before returning.