One-Day Scenic Train Trip from Zurich to Lucerne

Day 1: Scenic Day Trip

Zurich, Switzerland

7:30AM

Breakfast at Conditorei Schober

Start your day with a delicious Swiss breakfast at Conditorei Schober, famous for its pastries and coffee, total bliss in a cozy setting.
Walk 5 minutes from your accommodation to the café.
CHF25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Lucerne

Hop on an early morning train to Lucerne to soak in the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland on your way to this charming city.
Direct train from Zurich HB to Lucerne.
CHF15, 50 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Lucerne's Old Town

Once in Lucerne, take a leisurely stroll through the well-preserved Old Town, enjoying attractions like Chapel Bridge and the Water Tower.
Walk 10 minutes from Lucerne train station.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Restaurant Fritschi

Enjoy a delightful Swiss lunch at Restaurant Fritschi, offering traditional Swiss dishes such as fondue or raclette.
5-minute walk to the restaurant.
CHF30, 1 hour

12:30PM

Boat to Mount Pilatus

Take a boat ride across Lake Lucerne to Alpnachstad, where you'll transfer to the cogwheel railway up to Mount Pilatus—an incredible way to appreciate the breathtaking views.
10-minute walk to the boat dock.
CHF40, 2.5 hours (including boat ride and cogwheel train)

3:00PM

Ascend Mount Pilatus

Once at the summit of Mount Pilatus, relish the panoramic views, take photos, and if time allows, explore some short hiking trails.
Spend time at the summit.
Free (entry with train ticket), 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Descend to Lucerne

Take the scenic route back down via the aerial cableway, landing again in Lucerne, ready to relax or explore more.
Aerial cableway from Mount Pilatus to Lucerne.
Included in train ticket, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Wirtshaus Taube

Reward yourself after a day of adventure with some Swiss specialties at Restaurant Wirtshaus Taube, where the ambiance is as warm as the cuisine.
5-minute walk to the restaurant from the station.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Zurich

Catch an evening train back to Zurich, reflecting on the day's beautiful experiences in Lucerne and Mount Pilatus as you wind down.
Direct train from Lucerne to Zurich HB.
CHF15, 50 minutes
View Hotel Availability