From Zurich: Lucerne City, Mount Pilatus, Cruise in Private Tour

Zurich , Switzerland

From Zurich: Lucerne City, Mount Pilatus, Cruise in Private Tour

Active

8h - 10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sit back and relax—there’s no need to worry about transportation, as all tickets for trains, boat rides, the cogwheel railway, gondola, and buses are included in this private day trip.

Take in the beauty of the Swiss Alps and lakes on a full-day private tour from Basel to Lucerne. Travel comfortably by train with a private guide to the charming lakeside city, famous for its stunning mountain backdrop. Enjoy a relaxing one-hour boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, followed by an exciting ride up Mount Pilatus on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway.

- Enjoy the beautiful Swiss landscapes while traveling by train with a private guide for your exclusive small group — customizable itinerary with hotel pick-up included

- Experience a scenic hour-long cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding Alps

- Ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway and explore at your own pace with options to personalize your journey—contact us to tailor your perfect day

Available options

From Zurich: Lucerne City, Mount Pilatus, Cruise in Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

all transportation fees for Train, Boat cruise, coghwheel railway, gondola and bus

Mount Pilatus & Lucerne exploration

all fees, taxes and handling charges

local guide for your exclusive small group

Detailed itinerary

We will pick you up and take you to Zurich HB train station to start your tour where we'll take a train of 1 hour ride to Lucerne

Stop 2

Your journey continues with a scenic one-hour boat ride from Lucerne to Alpnachstad. As you depart Lucerne’s picturesque bay, the boat cruises past the charming lakeside towns. All along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making for a truly memorable experience on the water.

Alpnachstad is where the boat ride ends and the mountain journey begins. Here, you’ll board the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, which takes you up to Pilatus Kulm in about 35 minutes. The train climbs up the mountainside, following a narrow track along rocky ridges and through green alpine meadows. Along the way, you’ll enjoy great views of the landscape before reaching the top of Mount Pilatus

Stop 4

Once you arrive at the Pilatus Kulm mountain station, you’ll find yourself on Lucerne’s famous local mountain. Here we will enjoy the viewing terraces, take in the sights from the panorama gallery, or relax at one of the two mountain hotels. While at the top, we will explore the Dragon Gallery, check out the scenic viewpoints.

The gondola from Pilatus will take us to Kriens where we will take a local bus for a small ride until Lucerne

Stop 6

We'll return to Lucerne for a short stroll through the city, with time to take photos and visit one of its most famous landmarks – the Chapel Bridge

Return to Zurich HB train station (our starting point)

What's not included

Food and drinks

Any additional extra personal expense

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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