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

Basel , Switzerland

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

Active

(12 reviews)

7h - 9h

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

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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 Basel: 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 - 2nd class

all fees, taxes and handling charges

local guide for your exclusive small group

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts at the train station - Basel SBB. Your guide will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point

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 Basel SBB train station (our starting point)

What's not included

Any additional extra personal expense

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

RU PT EN RO ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: The boat and cogwheel railway are only available from May to October. During the off-season, the tour will be conducted using the gondola both ways to reach Mount Pilatus. The tour will conclude with a scenic one-hour boat ride on Lake Lucerne after returning from the mountain

Customers undertake all activities at their own risk. The Tour Operator's liability is limited to the tour price, including for direct damages caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct. Liability for slight negligence, auxiliary persons, consequential damages, and lost profit is excluded.

Meeting point

Your tour guide will be waiting for you at Basel SBB train station, in the departure hall—right in front of the ticket office and the designated meeting point.

About Basel

Basel is a vibrant city where Swiss, French, and German cultures converge. Known for its rich art scene, medieval architecture, and picturesque location along the Rhine River, it offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore, with numerous museums, festivals, and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Basel Minster

This iconic twin-spired cathedral is a symbol of Basel. It offers stunning views of the city and the Rhine River from its towers.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours CHF 6 for tower access

Fondation Beyeler

A world-class art museum featuring works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh. The museum is set in a beautiful park designed by architect Renzo Piano.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 24 for adults

Old Town (Altstadt)

The medieval old town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant squares. It's the heart of Basel's cultural and social life.

Historical/Cultural Half-day or more Free to explore

Rhine River

The Rhine River is a central feature of Basel, offering beautiful walks, boat trips, and swimming spots. The Rhine Promenade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Nature Varies Free (boat trips may have a fee)

Basel Zoo (Zolli)

One of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Switzerland, Basel Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and plants. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours CHF 24 for adults, CHF 12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Basler Läckerli

A traditional Swiss spiced biscuit made with honey, nuts, and spices. It's a sweet treat that's perfect with coffee or tea.

Dessert Contains nuts, gluten, and honey

Basler Mehlsuppe

A traditional Swiss flour soup made with breadcrumbs, onions, and cheese. It's a hearty and comforting dish, often served with a side of sausage.

Dinner Contains gluten, dairy, and meat (if served with sausage)

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish made with grated potatoes that are pan-fried until crispy. It's often served as a side dish or topped with cheese and onions.

Dinner Vegetarian (if not topped with meat)

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

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

Dinner Contains dairy, meat, and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Jura Mountains Swimming in the Rhine River Cycling along the Rhine Enjoying a coffee or pastry at a local café Taking a leisurely stroll along the Rhine Promenade Visiting a spa or wellness center Exploring the city's museums and galleries Attending a concert or performance at the Basel Theater

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with numerous events and cultural activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Basel is a generally safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

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

Getting there

By air

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg • 5.5 km (3.4 miles) from city center

By train

Basel SBB, Basel Badischer Bahnhof

By bus

Basel Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram network is efficient and covers most of the city. Trams are clean, punctual, and user-friendly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Basel

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kleinbasel Grossbasel St. Alban

Day trips

Laufenburg

20 km (12.4 miles) • Half-day

A charming town on the Rhine River, known for its historic castle and picturesque old town. A great place for a leisurely stroll and a taste of Swiss-German culture.

Fribourg

80 km (50 miles) • Full-day

A picturesque medieval town in the canton of Fribourg, known for its well-preserved old town, stunning cathedral, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. A great place for history buffs and culture lovers.

Strasbourg

120 km (75 miles) • Full-day or overnight

A beautiful French city on the border with Germany, known for its stunning cathedral, charming old town, and rich history. A great place for a day trip or a longer stay.

Festivals

Basel Carnival (Fasnacht) • February/March (dates vary) Baselworld • March/April (dates vary) Basler Herbstmesse • October/November (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Fondation Beyeler for its world-class art collection and beautiful park setting.
Explore the city's hidden courtyards and passages for a unique and authentic experience.
Try a traditional Swiss fondue or raclette at a local restaurant.
Take a boat trip on the Rhine River for stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
Visit the Basel Carnival (Fasnacht) for a vibrant and colorful celebration of Swiss culture.