Mount Pilatus Day Trip

Explore the spectacular Swiss Alps on this day trip to Mount Pilatus from Zurich. Hike to the peak, travel on the world's steepest cogwheel train and ride a panoramic cable car for unparalleled views over the mountains.

Day Trip Details

We'll depart from the Sihlquai Bus Terminal parking lot at the indicated time and travel by bus to Lucerne, enjoying views of the Swiss Alps along the way. The guide will point out sights such as the Chapel Bridge and Jesuit Church. You will have free time in Lucerne to explore its Old Town.

After visiting Lucerne, you'll continue to Kriens for a cable car ride with views of Krienseregg as you ascend to Fräkmüntegg. Here, you'll ride the Dragon Ride, an aerial cableway with panoramic windows offering views of the Swiss Alps.

Upon reaching Mount Pilatus at almost 7,000 feet (2,131 metres), you can choose to walk down the Dragon Trail or hike to the summit. Take photos of the views and enjoy lunch at one of the mountaintop restaurants.

After your visit, you'll descend to Alpnachstad on the steepest cogwheel train in the world and conclude with a boat cruise on the Lake of the Four Cantons. You'll return to Zurich after a total of 9.5 hours.

Itinerary Adjustments

The itinerary will experience adjustments during the following dates:

Dragon Ride cable car: Open year-round, except October 20 - November 7, 2025, for maintenance. During this time, the ascent and descent will be via the cogwheel train.Boat trip: Available only from May 12 to November 2025. Note that from October 20 - November 14, 2025, this trip will be replaced with a food ticket.