Mt. Pilatus Golden Roundtrip Private Day Trip from Zürich
Active
8h
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
Embark on a tailored adventure from Zürich to Luzern by train, followed by a scenic boat journey. Ascend to the summit of Mt. Pilatus via the world's steepest cogwheel train, accompanied by a private guide. The panorama continues as you descend with an aerial cableway back to Luzern. This exclusive tour seamlessly combines cultural insights, breathtaking landscapes, and the personalized touch of a private guide for an unforgettable Swiss experience.
Available options
Pilatus golden tour & lake boat cruise with private tour guide from Zurich
Pickup included
What's included
all transportation fees for boat, coghwheel railway, gondola and bus
local guide operated by Swiss Travel Guide for your party only
all taxes, fees and handling charges
Detailed itinerary
1
Your travelling by train withing 50 minutes to Luzern.
2
Stop 2
You continue your tour with the one hour lake boat transfer from Luzern to Alpnachstad. After leaving the bay of Luzern, the boat glides along the shore of Hergiswil and Stansstad to the bay of Alpnach. On the entire boat tour you have the surrounding mountains in sight.
3
Alpnachstad is the connection point between the lake boat and the steepest cogwheel train in the world.
Within 35 minutes the cogwheel train climbs along the ridge and passing alpine meadows to Pilatus Kulm.
4
Arrive at the mountain station Pilatus Kulm of the Pilatusbahn, where a viewing terrace, a panorama gallery and two mountain hotels are located on the scenic local mountain.
Visit several attractions at Mt. Pilatus like the dragon gallery, the viewpoint, the scenic terraces and the multimedia presentation.
5
The largest rope park in Central Switzerland, tree tents, the toboggan run, hiking trails and fantastic barbecue areas invite you to relax.
6
The Krienseregg is perfect for families. In the versatile local recreation area you will find marked, varied circular hikes and large picnic areas
7
In terms of population, Kriens is the third largest municipality and the second largest city in the Swiss canton of Lucerne. It lies at the foot of Mount Pilatus and borders Lucerne to the east.
At Kriens you leave the aerial cableway and after a 10 minutes walk to the bus stop, you board the local bus to Luzern.
8
Stop 8
As the old town of Luzern is just footsteps away, you can visit the Chapel bridge and some sights in the old town before returning by train to Zürich, where the tour ends.
What's not included
food and drinks
personal expenses during the tour
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
a minimum of 2 people per booking is required
children must be accompagnied by an adult
for wheelchair assistance - please contact us before booking
Please note: Boat and coghwheel railway will operate Mai to October only. Off season, the tour will be performed by travelling to mount Pilatus both ways by gondola, the tour will be finalized with a 1-hour tour on the lake Lucerne by panoramic boat after the return travel from mount Pilatus.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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