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 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.

Before arriving, the guide will point out important sights like the Chapel Bridge and the Jesuit Church. You'll have free time in Lucerne to explore its Old Town at your own pace.

After Lucerne, you'll continue to Kriens for a cable car ride. From the gondola, enjoy views over the Krienseregg forests as you travel to Fräkmüntegg. There, you'll board the Dragon Ride, an aerial cableway with panoramic windows.

At the top of Mount Pilatus, at nearly 7,000 feet (2,131 metres), you can choose to walk down the Dragon Trail or hike to the summit. Free time is available to have lunch at one of the restaurants on Mount Pilatus.

After exploring, descend to Alpnachstad on the steepest cogwheel train, followed by a boat cruise on the Lake of the Four Cantons. You'll complete your day returning to Zurich after a total of 10 hours.

Itinerary Adjustments

The itinerary will experience adjustments on the following dates:

October 19 to November 27, 2026: ascent and descent by rack railway with no boat trip. A meal voucher will be included.On November 28 and 29, 2026: ascent by cable car and descent by rack railway with no boat trip, but a meal voucher for 20CHF (adults) and 10CHF (children) valid at Mount Pilatus restaurants will be included.