weekend trips from zurich

4 easy must-do weekend trips from Zurich

Situated at the north end of Lake Zurich , this picturesque town doesn't necessarily look like the international center for banking and finance that it undoubtedly is. The beautiful Old Town on the shores of the lake makes this historic city feel more like a fairytale place, and you have to look past the old buildings to see the skyscrapers and office towers of the more modern parts of the city.

There's plenty to do in Zürich, whether you're interested in history or outdoor recreation. The lake and the surrounding mountains make this a haven for outdoor lovers, but thanks to the presence of so many international bankers, Zürich also has plenty of cultural attractions, including some world-leading restaurants. The truth is, you could spend a lifetime in Zürich without running out of things to do.

However, Zürich is also close to some fascinating places to explore, and if you're looking for a weekend trip, you're in luck. Switzerland is packed with gorgeous lakes, the impressive mountains of the Swiss Alps, and, thanks to its history of neutrality, some of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Additionally, Switzerland has one of the world's best high-speed rail networks, so it's easy to get just about anywhere from Zurich, whether you're looking for a day trip or a longer weekend trip.

But before you head to the train station, don't forget to drop off your bags somewhere. Whether you're traveling by train or car, you'll have a much easier time if you don't carry heavy bags around with you. Bounce provides convenient luggage storage in Zürich and in hundreds of cities around the world so that you never need to carry more than you have to.

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Located south of Zurich in central Switzerland, Lucerne is easy to reach for day trips from Zurich and longer weekend excursions. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this beautiful city is a fantastic place for outdoor adventures and for cultural experiences.

Distance from Zurich:

Lucerne is around 50 km south of Zürich and is reachable by car in only 45 minutes. A single train ride will get you there in the same amount of time, so this is not only a great option for day trips but a good choice if you don't want to drive.

Our activity recommendations:

Mount Pilatus: Rising 2128 m above sea level, this mountain dominates the landscape around Lucerne and is steeped in legend. As you would imagine, the views from the top are absolutely incredible, taking in the beautiful waters of the lake and the Old Town at its shore. In the summer, you can explore the mountain by taking a paddle steamer from Lucerne to the base of the mountain, then riding a cogwheel train up the steep slope to the top. From there, you can take a gondola back down to the town.

Lake cruises: Lake Lucerne is a huge part of what makes the town as beautiful as it is, and you can take a cruise over the clear waters of the lake to appreciate the mountainous scenery of the Swiss Alps at its very best. The Old Town of Lucerne looks almost unbelievably beautiful from the water, so don't forget your camera as you explore this magnificent outdoor paradise.

Chapel Bridge: Probably the most iconic structure in Lucerne, this 14th-century bridge is the world's oldest surviving truss bridge. Decorated with 17th-century paintings portraying events from the history of the town, this 200 m bridge is a great place to walk and admire the beauty of Lake Lucerne and this gem of the Swiss Alps.

Best season to visit:

Winter in Lucerne can be quite cold, and many of the tourist attractions shut down for the season. Lucerne gets busy with tourists in the summer, so fall is a great time to visit to avoid crowds and save some money. The mountains around the town are even more impressive after the first snowfall, which usually happens early in the fall.

Not exactly a hidden gem, Basel is one of the major cities of Switzerland. However, it's easy to reach, sitting on a bend of the Rhine River right on the borders with both France and Germany. And there's so much to do here that you really shouldn't miss out on taking at least a day trip, if not a weekend excursion, here.

Basel lies a little less than 90 km from Zurich, and you can reach it with a drive of around an hour and 10 minutes. It's actually a little quicker to take the train between the two cities since the intercity line takes only 53 minutes to make the same journey.

Old Town: Basel's Old Town is as charming as any in Switzerland. The famous red sandstone town hall is just one of the many iconic sites to see in Basel's Old Town, and you can easily spend the day exploring the quaint streets and charming buildings of this historic district. Consider taking a city tour to learn more about the buildings you see and get the most out of your visit here.

Natural History Museum: Basel's Natural History Museum is a highlight of any day trip or weekend trip to the city, especially for kids. Established in 1821, this collection holds nearly 8 million different items that explore the geology, mineralogy, anthropology, and entomology of Switzerland. The museum is even home to the famous mummy of Anna Catharina Bischoff, a Swiss noblewoman who died in the 18th century.

Beyeler Foundation: This gallery of modern and contemporary art is the perfect place to visit for any art lovers traveling to Basel. You'll find some intriguing work by Swiss artists and by others from around the world here, making it a great place to discover something new.

As a large city, Basel is a year-round destination, so don't worry about the best time to visit. Whenever you're available is a good time to go.

Located in Eastern Switzerland on the border of four different countries, St Gallen flies a little under the radar when it comes to day trips and weekend trips in Switzerland. However, St. Gallen has a lot to offer, especially if you're looking for a trip with a more laid-back atmosphere in a place many tourists never get to see.

St. Gallen is around 83 km from Zurich and can be reached by car in 53 minutes without traffic. A train takes around an hour and 10 minutes to make the same journey, so this is another town that can easily be visited as a day trip as well as a weekend trip.

Abbey Cathedral of St. Gall: Probably the main attraction in town, this majestic cathedral has its roots all the way back in the eighth century. Both a cathedral and a monastery, most of what you see of the church these days is from the 18th century. This wonderfully ornate church was clearly designed by people who didn't believe that less is more, and you can spend a long time exploring all the Baroque decoration inside the church.

Don't miss the Abbey's library, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to the important manuscripts it contains. It's also one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

Peter and Paul Wildlife Park: This free attraction is the best way to meet the charismatic wildlife of the Swiss Alps. Red deer, wild boar, lynxes, and Alpine ibex roam the grounds here, and their keepers offer educational programs so you can learn more about the zoology of the region and the conservation efforts being made to protect these magnificent creatures. There's also a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the Alpine scenery, making this a great place to explore around lunchtime.

Schützengarten Brewery: Operating since 1779, this is Switzerland's oldest brewery. Daily tours are offered that will take you through this modern brewing facility and teach you more about the brewing process, but you'll also learn about the history of this famous brand. And don't worry; there will be samples.

Most of St. Gallen's top attractions are open year-round, so there's no specific time you need to visit.

Grindelwald

Perched under the formidable rockface of the Eiger, a peak that wasn't conquered until the middle of the 20th century, Grindelwald is a celebrated mountain resort and ski town in a country that is known for having more than its fair share of those. A truly fantastic place for lovers of the outdoors, there's really too much to enjoy here on a day trip. Grindelwald demands at least a weekend to get the most out of what it offers, including a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It's 140 kilometers from Zurich to Grindelwald, requiring a drive of two hours. It's also possible to make the journey by train, but that will take closer to three hours. Still, it's worth it to see this uniquely beautiful place for yourself.

First Cliff Walk: If you have a head for heights and a sense of adventure, don't miss this thrilling attraction. This metal walkway embraces the side of a mountain before launching itself out into the empty air, giving you magnificent views over the dramatic scenery of central Switzerland. In case that wasn't enough, there are also tons of hiking trails on this mountain and a zip line that reaches speeds of 84 km an hour.

Jungfraujoch: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its incredible natural scenery, the mountain pass of Jungfraujoch is something that has to be seen to be believed. You can catch the train up to the pass, which, at nearly 3500 m above sea level, is the highest railway in the world. Along the way, you'll get incredible views of peaks that soar over 4,000 m into the air and the glaciers that crown them. There's even an ice palace to explore, carved out of the glacier like something straight out of a fairytale.

Gletscherschlucht: This marvelous rocky canyon is full of walkways that let you travel along the walls and admire the water rushing beneath. There's even a spiderweb feature that lets you climb out directly above the water - if you have the stomach for it.

As an outdoor paradise, Grindelwald is a very seasonal destination. In the winter, the high mountain passes are covered in several meters of snow, so unless you're going there to engage in winter sports, the best time to visit is late summer when the snow has retreated as much as it will all year.

Zurich is a beautiful town with a lively culture that makes it a fantastic place to visit at any time of year. If it's your first time in the city or you only have a limited time to explore, for example, 3 days in Zürich, you'll find more than enough to keep you occupied in the town itself.

However, Switzerland is a relatively small country with an excellent public transportation network that makes it ideal for both day trips and weekend trips. So if you have longer in Zürich or you're lucky enough to live in the area, there are some truly fantastic destinations you can explore for a day or more.

Simply drop off your unneeded bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Zürich and get ready to enjoy these iconic destinations. Switzerland has so much to offer anyone looking for a day or weekend trip, so don't miss out on these exceptional options.

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Best Day Trips from Zurich: 15 Must-Visit Destinations

Zurich is an awesome city to spend a few days exploring. Between its historical sites, museums, charming old town, the Limmat river, Lake Zurich, and surrounding mountains, there is a lot to see and do.

But, Zurich is also a great place to base yourself to explore the rest of Switzerland from. Thanks to such efficient trains, you can take some incredible day trips from Zurich to the Swiss Alps, waterfalls, historic cities, and lots more.

So, what are the best day trips from Zurich that should be on your list? We run through them all below for you.

Table of Contents

Rhine Falls

One of my favorite day trips from Zurich is without a doubt a visit to Rhine Falls . I am a little obsessed with rivers and waterfalls, and since Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe (by volume, not height), it comes at the top of the list.

Sitting north of Zurich and right on the border with Germany, the Rhine Falls is formed by the Rhine River. Rhine Falls is 150 meters across and 23 meters high and it pumps out some 600,000 liters of water a second in the summer.

Experiencing the sheer power of the Rhine Falls is an incredible experience and you can view it from platforms on either side or go on a boat trip that takes you right up to the falls.

Getting to Rhine Falls is incredibly easy as it is a direct train ride from Zurich HB to Neuhausen Rheinfall, and then a short walk from the station. You will be at Rhine Falls in under an hour.

Mount Titlis

Mount Titlis is one of the most beautiful mountains in Switzerland and another of the great day trips from Zurich.

Whether you simply want to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top or be active by skiing in the winter or hiking/mountain biking in the summer, Mt Titlis is the place for you.

The peak sits at 3000 meters above sea level and to get to the top, you will experience great views from the TITLIS Rotair cable car which rotates as it takes you directly to the peak.

Once at the top, take in the views from the viewing platform in every direction, go on the Titlis Cliff Walk, and visit the 5000-year-old Glacier cave.

There are a plethora of hiking trails that bring you back down the mountain or you can stop for lunch at the mountain-top restaurant and take the cable car back down.

Getting to Mount Titlis from Zurich is easy. It takes just over 2 hours to get to the heart of central Switzerland. You will need to change trains in Luzern and get off at Engelberg before getting on the cable car.

One of the easiest day trips from Zurich is a trip to Winterthur , Switzerland’s sixth largest city just 30 minutes north of Zurich.

Winterthur’s appeal is culture. It is packed to the brim with stunning architectural styles, museums, and art galleries, and the Old Town is an absolute delight to stroll around.

Winterthur’s Old Town is actually the biggest pedestrianized old town in Switzerland and it is filled with great bars, cafes, and restaurants. Once you have found it, it is hard to leave, so perhaps taking in the other sites first is the best idea.

The Fotomuseum is one of the best photography museums in Europe, the Oskar Reinhart Collection museum is full of incredible pieces by artists such as Rembrandt. Plus, there is even the Swiss Science Centre Technorama which is awesome for kids.

There are trains to Winterthur every hour from Zurich HB and they take less than 30 minutes.

Grindelwald

A visit to the charming alpine town of Grindelwald is another of the great day trips from Zurich, especially if you want to experience the mighty Alps.

Sitting just below the Bernese Alps, Grindelwald is a hub for awesome mountain activities in both summer and winter. In the winter, it is all about skiing, snowboarding, and most other winter sports.

Summer brings hiking, mountain biking, and a trip up Grindelwald First mountain offers countless activities from zip-lining to riding mountain karts, and lots more.

The incredible views of the surrounding Jungfrau Region from Grindelwald First have to be seen to be believed and there are some awesome hikes to beautiful Alpine lakes that should not be missed.

Getting to Grindelwald from Zurich takes about 2.75 hours via train. You will need to change trains in the picturesque town of Interlaken, and it is worth combining your Zurich day trip to Grindelwald with Interlaken.

One of my favorite towns in Switzerland and one of the top day trips from Zurich is Interlaken.

Surrounded by the alps with the bright blue Lake Thun on one side, the deep blue Lake Brienz on the other, and with the Aare running through it, you couldn’t ask for a more quintessential Swiss Alpine town.

Known as the adventure capital of the region, you can enjoy all kinds of activities from paragliding to white water rafting and canyoning. There are also some incredible hiking routes that take you up mountains, past waterfalls, and offer awesome views too.

The town itself is lovely to stroll around. The Swiss architecture is a delight, the shopping is awesome, and you can hang out on the lake beaches in the summer, swim, go on cruises, and lots more!

You can be in Interlaken via a direct train from Zurich in just under 2 hours.

The city of Fribourg lies to the west of Bern and it is one of the more cultural day trip destinations within easy reach of Zurich.

Known as one of the best preserved medieval towns in the country, strolling around the medieval old town is a must, as you take in the stunning medieval architecture and views across the Sarine River .

One of the highlights is the city’s impressive gothic cathedral with its stunning bell tower and art nouveau stained glass windows. The city is also full of art museums that showcase modern and contemporary art.

Once you are done sightseeing, a stroll around the narrow pedestrian streets will have you finding lots of riverside cafes, wonderful shops, restaurants, and more.

Getting to Fribourg takes just 1.5 hours via train from Zurich, changing at Bern on your way.

Stein am Rhein

Stein am Rhein is probably the best example of medieval Switzerland you can find in the country. Sitting downstream from Lake Constance on the Rhine River, it was once a fishing village but blossomed with art and architecture between the 12th and 15th centuries.

If you love a bit of culture then this is the perfect day trip from Zurich for you.

Stein am Rhein is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in all of Europe. The old houses lining the river banks and old town are stunning with their half-timbered design and painted facades.

Taking a look at the town hall (Rathaus) and square (​​Rathausplatz) is a must. The town hall is probably the most beautiful building in Stein am Rhein and the square is decorated with paintings that depict the history of the town.

St George’s Abbey, once a benedictine monastery and today a museum on the banks of the Rhine is also a must-see, as is the medieval castle Hohenklingen that sits on a hill about the town.

To get to Stein am Rhein from Zurich take the train to Schaffhausen and change to Stein am Rhein. It takes less than one hour.

If cities are your thing, a lovely day trip from Zurich is a visit to the Swiss capital, Bern. It is a wonderful city that is packed full of history and sitting on the banks of the Aare river, it is beautiful too!

The Old Town of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this is a great place to start your day trip. The cobbled streets, old architecture, many fountains, shops, cafes, and restaurants make the Old Town a delight to stroll around.

Other great things not to miss in Bern are the Natural History Museum , Einstein Museum , Zytglogge clock tower, and the Swiss Parliament Building .

You can also stroll along the river to the Bear Pit where you will find bears roaming around as well as an aquarium, and petting zoo.

Getting to Bern is quick and easy from Zurich via a direct train which takes 56 minutes.

Appenzell is one of the lesser thought of day trips from Zurich but it is a great one nonetheless.

Appenzell is a quintessential Swiss village in Eastern Switzerland that sits below the stunning Alpstein mountains. Imagine Swiss homes in rolling hills and pastures, with mountain views and you get the idea.

The center of town is car-free and home to beautiful houses with decorated facades. A visit to the Museum of Appenzell will teach you all about the culture, and sampling some traditional food is a must too.

There are lots of great hiking trails around the area and you can take the cable car up to Ebenalp to see awesome views as well as a 17th-century chapel cut into the cliffs.

The trip to Appenzell from Zurich HB takes 1.75 hours on the train. Change at Gossau SG and get off at Urnäsch.

Rapperswil-Jona

Sitting just down Lake Zurich from the city of Zurich is the town of roses, Rapperswil-Jona . Chances are you will have spent some time on Lake Zurich already while visiting the city, but Lake Zurich is huge and there is a lot more to explore than the shores around Zurich.

Rapperswil-Jona lies close to the other end of Lake Zurich and it is filled with roses. All the houses in the center of the town have window boxes with roses and there are numerous rose gardens to visit around the city.

You can also visit the lovely Rapperswil Castle which sits above the town. Home to stunning views over Lake Zurich, a deer park, and rose gardens it is a lovely place to hang out.

A stroll along the shores of Lake Zurich is also delightful and in the summer, a swim and some bathing on the beaches are also a must.

You can get to Rapperswil-Jona in 40 mins by train from Zurich or you can get a boat across Lake Zurich.

Gruyeres , as you have probably guessed from the name, is known for Gruyere cheese but it is also the home of the oldest chocolate factory in Switzerland too. If cheese and chocolate are your things, a day trip to Gruyeres is a must.

Sitting in western Switzerland, the charming village of Gruyeres is home to a cheese factory, chocolate factory, museums, and a beautiful castle as well as great traditional restaurants.

Enjoy a tour and tasting experience at La Maison du Gruyère (cheese) and La Maison Cailler (chocolate). Then visit the beautiful 13th-century Gruyeres Castle and take in some art at the HR Giger Museum .

It is hard to believe such a small Alpine town could be home to so much, but that is why it is one of the top-day trips from Zurich.

Getting to Gruyeres takes 2.5 hours changing at Bern and Bulle.

One of the top cultural day trips from Zurich is to the city of Basel which lies to the west of Zurich on both the French, German, and Swiss borders.

Basel is a beautiful multicultural city of note and well worth a visit. Sitting on the Rhine River, its Old Town is lovely to stroll around and something not to miss is the town hall which stands out since it is made from red sandstone.

The gothic cathedral is also a wonderful sight to see and so is the Gate of Spalen , an ancient gate of the city.

Basel is also home to some great museums including the Natural History Museum and the fine arts museum of the Beyeler Foundation.

Basel is less than an hour away from Zurich via a direct train making it very easy on a day trip.

Lucerne is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. Sitting on Lake Lucerne where the Reuss River flows out of it, Lucerne is as beautiful as it is full of culture.

Home to one of the best preserved Old Towns in Switzerland along with the beautiful Chapel Bridge, with views across Lake Lucerne and into the Alps, it is a hard day trip to beat.

Crossing Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered wooden bridge of its kind in Europe is a must. It is covered with window boxes full of flowers and the ceiling features a series of paintings depicting the town’s history.

Other great things to do include visiting the Swiss Museum of Transport, the Sammlung Rosengart art museum which has a lot of pieces by Picasso, the Lion Monument, and lots more.

There is a direct train to Lucerne that takes less than an hour from Zurich.

Liechtenstein

It is not often that a day trip includes going to a different country but you can be in the capital of Liechtenstein, Vaduz, in less than 1.5 hours from Zurich.

Liechtenstein is packed full of mountains and is a wonderful place if you want to enjoy the outdoors. Hiking is great in the summer and it is all about skiing in the winter.

Vaduz is home to some great architecture and interesting artwork. Be sure to check out the Vaduz Cathedral and the Vaduz Castle.

Jungfraujoch

Saving one of the best until last, a day trip to Jungfraujoch is a pretty incredible experience.

Jungfraujoch is accessed from Grindelwald and is a saddle that connects the stunning peaks of Monch and Jungfrau. Riding the cable cars and cogwheel train to the top is an experience in itself with magic views.

At the top, you can see the Aletsch Glacier , dine at a mountain-top restaurant, ski all year round, hike, and see some of the most amazing views that feature the three main peaks of the religion, Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau.

Getting there takes a while from Zurich. The 3.75-hour journey includes a train to Interlaken, then to Grindelwald, and then cable cars.

Best Day Trips – Frequently Asked Questions

Where can you go from zurich by train.

There honestly isn’t anywhere in Switzerland that isn’t a train ride away from Zurich, it just depends on how long you are willing to sit on a train.

You can be in Geneva to the west in under 3 hours, in Lugano in the south in under two hours, and in the hard-to-reach mountain resorts of eastern Switzerland in less than 4 hours.

But, by using the train, you will be missing the many scenic drives that Switzerland has to offer.

How many days should you spend in Zurich?

If you want to see the city of Zurich, about 2 days and 2 nights is the perfect amount of time. You will be able to see everything Zurich has to offer in a relaxed way. But, if you want to include some of the awesome day trips from Zurich, 4 or 5 days might be better.

Is Zurich a walkable city?

Yes, Zurich is a very walkable city. Central Zurich is mostly flat, has a lot of pedestrianized zones, and you can walk from one side of Zurich’s outer reaches to the other in just 2.5 hours.

Of course, Zurich is also home to excellent public transport too so you can always hop on a bus/tram/metro whenever you feel like taking a break from strolling around the city.

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Short Breaks and Weekend Trips from Zurich

If you want to find the best Switzerland travel packages to see all the sights without fuss, then this selection of midweek and weekend trips from Zurich means you’ll be spoiled for choice. 

As well as a two, four or three day trip from Zurich by train or coach, you can in fact commence these tours from anywhere in Switzerland. 

You can also tailor the trip to suit you perfectly by picking between first and second class travel, or selecting your standard and style of accommodation.

The iconic, panoramic train journeys Switzerland is famous for are also often included, as well as the all-important seat reservations you’ll need for these premium routes.

Switzerland’s popular mountain excursions feature on many tours, too.

Most tours run all year round, too, giving you the flexibility to depart whenever it suits you. 

In this guide you’ll find suggestions that include a quick weekend trip from Zurich, a relaxing wellness getaway to one of Switzerland’s most popular mountains, and a selection of 3 day Switzerland tour packages that feature panoramic train journeys.  

Read on to discover our pick of the best self-guided rail and partly-guided coach tours from Zurich.

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

What's in this Article

Quick summary of the short breaks and weekend trips from Zurich mentioned in this article

Self-guided rail packages.

Start your journey in Zurich (or anywhere in Switzerland) and benefit from having all travel arrangements made on your behalf.

Self-guided rail packages include trips on some of Switzerland’s most scenic train routes. 

Overnight accommodation in a variety of destinations is also covered, as well as any other transport you need to get you between places. 

On some itineraries, this even includes boat travel across one of the famous Swiss lakes. Read on to discover eight of the best self-guided Swiss rail packages, departing from a range of towns and cities. 

These rail packages are organised by our partner, the highly respected Switzerland Travel Centre. 

🎧 You can hear more about Switzerland Travel Centre’s offerings in episode 66 of our podcast .

As an exclusive bonus to Holidays to Switzerland readers, you can benefit from a 5% discount when you mention the code quoted below!

Bonus offer: Quote our promo code HTSWISS when booking your self-guided rail package and get 5% off the full package price.

Glacier Express Classic – 3 days / 2 nights

• Start in Zurich or anywhere in Switzerland
• Overnight stays: Zermatt and St Moritz
• Panoramic train: Glacier Express
• See the mighty Matterhorn
• Stay in Zermatt winter sports resort
• Pass through the scenic Rhine Gorge 
• Ascend to the 2,000+ metre Oberalp Pass
• Ride along the UNESCO listed Albula/Bernina railway line
• View the spectacular sights from the train’s panoramic windows
• Visit glamorous St Moritz and see its sparkling collection of lakes
• 5% discount when you quote the code HTSWISS when booking

Tour Summary

Travel between the classic Swiss mountain resort of Zermatt and glitzy St Moritz by joining the three day Glacier Express Classic tour. In addition to the eight-hour journey on board the panoramic Glacier Express, the itinerary includes overnight stays in both of these Swiss destinations. 

As well as the sights to see from the train, you’ll experience an excursion to Gornergrat with Matterhorn views,  the so-called Grand Canyon of Switzerland, views of the Upper Engadine lake region, the historic Albula Line and the Oberalp Pass. 

This tour includes the option to upgrade to Excellence Class travel. 

> Click here to check full details and prices

Bernina Express Classic – 3 days / 2 nights

• Overnight stays: St Moritz and Lugano
• Panoramic train: Bernina Express
• Glamorous St Moritz 
• Upper Engadine lakes
• Morteratsch Glacier panoramas
• Brusio Circular Viaduct
• Italianate Lugano with a warm, Mediterranean feel

During the second day of this tour beginning in St Moritz, you’ll join the Bernina Express to be transported to Tirano in Italy by premium panoramic train. 

Key sights during the trip include glamorous St. Moritz, the Lago Bianco on the Bernina Express route, the Alps’ highest railway line and the spiralling Brusio Circular Viaduct. 

The tour includes overnight stays in both St Moritz and Lugano. 

In Lugano you can spend the third day visiting spots like Parco Ciani, the LAC Art and Culture Centre, and the Old Town. You could also take a trip on the Monte Brè funicular or hike on Monte San Salvatore. 

Hidden Treasures – 3 days / 2 nights

• Overnight stays: Interlaken and Locarno
• Panoramic trains: Lucerne – Interlaken Express, Centovalli Express and Gotthard Panorama Express
• The city of Lucerne
• Swiss resort of Interlaken
• Domodossola in Piedmont, Italy
• Travel through the Brünig mountain pass
• The Centovalli Express via 83 bridges and viaducts 
• BLS RegioExpress Lötschberger scenic mountain route
• Lucerne – Interlaken Express trip with waterfall and lake views
• Trip on the Gotthard Panorama Express

If you can’t decide which panoramic route to take, this short Grand Train Tour includes the Lucerne to Interlaken Express, the Centovalli Express, the Gotthard Panorama Express and the BLS RegioExpress Lötschberger through the mountains. 

Your first day of this itinerary includes a visit to Lucerne’s Old Town, and a trip via the Lucerne-Interlaken Express to Interlaken for an overnight stay. 

On the second day, you’ll travel via the Lötschberg mountain route and the Simplon Tunnel to Locarno. Later, the Centovalli Express whisks you to Locarno for another overnight stay. 

Stunning Waters – 3 days / 2 nights

• Overnight stays: Lucerne and St Gallen
• Panoramic trains: Voralpen Express
• Lucerne Old Town
• Historic Chapel Bridge
• Shores of Lake Constance
• Voralpen-Express to St Gallen
• Mediaeval town of Stein am Rhein
• Elevated moorland near Rothenthurm
• Rhine Falls, Switzerland’s largest waterfall

The Voralpen-Express from Lucerne to St Gallen is also known as the Prealps-Express. 

This panoramic Swiss train route forms part of the Stunning Waters itinerary, and offers a scenic and convenient way to travel. 

After arriving in Lucerne, where you’ll stay the first night, you have free time to wander Lucerne’s Old Town, where you can see sights such as Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. 

On day two, travel aboard the Voralpen Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen, home to the UNESCO-listed Abbey District.

The final day takes you from St. Gallen to Schaffhausen and the Rhine Falls. If you wish you can travel the Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen section of this trip by boat. 

You’ll also travel by the scenic shores of Lake Constance en route. 

Glacier and Bernina Express Classic – 4 days / 3 nights

• Panoramic trains: Glacier Express and Bernina Express
• Bernina Pass crossing
• Swiss resort of Zermatt
• The majestic Matterhorn
• Tirano in Italy and Italianate Lugano
• The glimmering lakes of the St Moritz region

The Glacier and Bernina Express Classic includes two of Switzerland’s most treasured panoramic train routes, the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express. 

If a two day trip from Zurich just doesn’t seem like enough, this four day package is a great option.

Special moments on this trip include unique Matterhorn views, the Oberalp Pass, the Albula Line, the Rhine Gorge, the Upper Engadine lakes, the Brusio Circular Viaduct, Lago Bianco, Tirano in Italy and the Swiss destination of Lugano with a distinctly Mediterranean air. 

GoldenPass Tour – 4 days / 3 nights

• Overnight stays: Montreux, Interlaken and Lucerne
• Panoramic trains: GoldenPass Express

• Musical Montreux
• Famous Lake Geneva
• The scenic Brünig Pass
• Stunning Lavaux vineyards views
• Lakes Brienz, Lungern and Sarner
• Prestigious resort of Gstaad Saanenland

After travelling from Zurich (or elsewhere in Switzerland) to Montreux, there’s lots for GoldenPass Tour participants to see before they even leave town. Montreux’s highlights include the lakeside promenade and Chillon Castle. 

On day two, you’ll depart for Interlaken via the Lavaux vineyards, Swiss lakes, alpine meadows and pretty villages aboard the GoldenPass Express.

The third day of this tour takes you via the Brünig Pass to Lucerne. During the two hour journey, you’ll see more lush meadows and crystal clear lakes. 

An overnight stay in Lucerne rounds off the GoldenPass Tour perfectly.  

Glaciers and Palm Trees – 4 days / 3 nights

• Overnight stays: Lucerne, Lugano and St Moritz
• Panoramic trains: Bernina Express and Gotthard Panorama Express
• Lucerne city and lake
• The picturesque Bernina Pass
• Upmarket resort town of St Moritz
• Italian-style Swiss resort of Lugano
• Paddle steamer trip across Lake Lucerne to Flüelen

On your arrival in Lucerne, you have free time to explore this magical city.

After a restful night in Lucerne, day two of the Glaciers and Palm Trees itinerary starts aboard a classic paddle steamer for a trip across the lake to Flüelen. From there, take a first class seat on the Gotthard Panorama Express to Lugano. 

On day three, the Bernina Express awaits to take you to St Moritz, via the Italian Alps, Tirano and Lago Bianco. 

A panoramic trip on a local train between St Moritz and Chur, crossing the Landwasser Viaduct en route, awaits on day four.  You then continue to your final destination in Switzerland.

Top Attractions – 5 days / 4 nights

• Overnight stays: Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux and Zermatt
• Panoramic trains: GoldenPass Express and Glacier Express
• Picturesque Rhine Gorge
• Montreux on Lake Geneva
• Glacier Express trip to Chur
• The car-free village of Zermatt
• Scenic trip on the GoldenPass Express
• Interlaken, the gateway to the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau

The Top Attractions tour includes stays in four of Switzerland’s most attractive destinations – Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux and Zermatt. You’ll also see the Matterhorn and the Lavaux vineyards en route. 

This five day package is packed with highlights including the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge, several Swiss lakes, the Giessbach falls and the traditional lakeside village of Brienz.

Other popular sights are the Brünig pass, the Lavaux wine terraces, Chillon Castle and Gornergrat. A trip via the Oberalp Pass and the Rhine Gorge to Chur is also a highlight. 

BONUS OFFER Holidays to Switzerland readers can benefit from a 5% discount when they book one of the self-guided rail packages mentioned above. Simply  quote the code HTSWISS  in the Promo Code box when making your booking via this link to qualify for the discount.

Partly-guided coach tours

If you prefer to have the company of an experienced tour guide for part of your vacation, these partly-guided coach tours are well worth considering.

Operated by Best of Switzerland Tours, each tour includes coach transport from Zurich with a guide, all cable car or mountain railway tickets you require and hotel accommodation with breakfast.

Best of Switzerland Tours offers a selection of carefully curated, multi-day tours including overnight accommodation. 

These tours are ideal for visitors who are short of time, or are looking for one simple package covering everything. For example, the Highlights of Central Switzerland tour takes in Mount Pilatus, Mount Titlis and Lucerne in only two days. 

Alternatively, the Mountain Wellness tour transforms a regular sightseeing trip into a wellness retreat, complete with admission to the spa and mineral baths at Rigi Kaltbad. 

Other tours include visits to top spots like the Bernese Oberland or Jungfraujoch, aka the Top of Europe. 

Below you’ll find the details of three of the best partly-guided coach tours of Switzerland. 

🎧 Hear more about these short tours from Zurich in episode 78 of the Holidays to Switzerland podcast .

Jewels of the Alps – 2 days / 1 night

• Starts and ends in Zurich or Lucerne
• Overnight stay: Interlaken or Grindelwald
• Eiger Express cable car ride
• Leisure time to explore either Interlaken or Grindelwald
• Trip to Jungfraujoch, aka the Top of Europe
• Many attractions to enjoy at the Jungfraujoch summit
• Cogwheel train ride to the highest train station in Europe
• Choose between staying in Interlaken and Grindelwald overnight

If you have two days and a night at your disposal, this tour includes a stay in either Interlaken or Grindelwald, return transport to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, and transport back to either Zurich or Lucerne. 

During free time in Interlaken – Europe’s adventure capital – you can sample adrenaline-inducing activities or take the funicular up to Harder Kulm. 

Alternatively, choose Grindelwald in the shadow of the Eiger’s North Face and you can take a trip up to Mount First as well as exploring the glacier village. 

Whichever you choose, a trip to Jungfraujoch is the highlight of day two, where there are lots of attractions to explore and enjoy. These include the Alpine Sensation, the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observation Deck.

Highlights of Central Switzerland – 2 days / 1 night

• Starts and ends in Zurich
• Overnight stay: Lucerne
• Visit to Mount Titlis
• Visit to Mount Pilatus
• Stunning Central Switzerland views
• Boat trip from Alpnachstad to Lucerne
• Cogwheel train from Mount Pilatus to Alpnachstad
• Titlis Cliff Walk, the highest suspension bridge in Europe

You don’t need to choose between visiting Mount Pilatus and Mount Titlis when you take this tour, which also includes an overnight stay in Lucerne. 

The partly-guided tour includes cable car and cogwheel train rides plus other transport. 

Your first day includes discovering Lucerne Old Town and the shores of the lake, plus a trip to Mount Pilatus. 

During the day you’ll experience the Dragon Ride cable car, a Lake Lucerne cruise and a ride on the steepest cogwheel railway on earth.

Day two is devoted to Mount Titlis. Rides on the revolving Rotair cable car and the Ice Flyer chair lift await. 

Other highlights at Titlis include Europe’s highest suspension bridge as well as a whole world of ice and snow.

Mountain Wellness – 2 days / 1 night

• Overnight stay: Rigi Kaltbad
• Lake Lucerne boat trip
• Wake to views over 13 Swiss lakes
• Ride on the first mountain railway in Europe
• Visit to Mount Rigi, aka Queen of the Mountains
• 4-course dinner at a panoramic restaurant
• Rigi Kaltbad Mineral Baths & Spa wellness experience

This partly-guided tour transforms a regular sightseeing tour of Switzerland into a spa break. All transport is included, and you even get to take a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne. 

Tickets for the cable car and and cogwheel train trips to and from Mount Rigi are also covered, as is dinner, bed and breakfast at the Rigi Kaltbad hotel with its mineral bath and spa. 

Day one starts with a scenic drive through the Swiss countryside to Weggis. Here you’ll take a cable car and then a cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm, where you can follow the hiking trails if you’d like to. 

During the afternoon, you’ll head to the mineral bath and spa at the Rigi Kaltbad hotel, where you’ll find indoor and outdoor pools, steam bath, a herbal sauna, a whirlpool and a crystal spa bath. 

After soaking away your cares, head for a four-course dinner at the on-site SunSet restaurant. 

Your second day includes a cogwheel train ride down to Vitznau, a boat ride across the lake to Lucerne and time to explore the city fully.  Then, meet your guide for your return trip to Zurich. 

Planning a trip to Switzerland? At Holidays to Switzerland we are passionate about sharing our love of Switzerland and helping you to plan the perfect trip. Read our guide to planning a trip to Switzerland to kick start your travel plans and join our free Switzerland Travel Planning group on Facebook to chat with other past and future travellers. Want monthly news and podcast updates, helpful travel tips and special deals sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Holidays to Switzerland and we’ll send you a bonus copy of our 10 Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Switzerland guide. 🇨🇭 Check out our exclusive discount offers and save on your Swiss vacation. 🇨🇭

Final thoughts

If you want to see the very best of Switzerland but have limited time, then taking short breaks from Zurich – as well as other destinations – is a great idea. 

No matter where you’d like to visit and whichever panoramic train rides appeal to you most, the right tour by rail or coach is out there waiting for you.

From Zurich weekend trips to short breaks ranging from two to six days (or longer), there is an itinerary to suit every traveller.

Be sure to read more of our helpful Switzerland trip planning guides !

Switzerland Travel Essentials

Rail passes.

Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss Half Fare Card

Eurail Global Pass

Regional Rail Passes

Berner Oberland Pass

Jungfrau Travel Pass

Rail Packages

Self-Drive Packages

Itinerary Planning

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Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

Episode 78: Top short breaks and day tours from Zurich

Episode 79: Visiting Switzerland in Fall (Everything you need to know)

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 25 incredible day trips from zurich, switzerland.

Zurich is a great place to base yourself while in Switzerland. It’s the most affordable international airport and there are some great day trip from Zurich that will allow you to see so much of the country without having to move around.

When you visit Zurich, not only will you enjoy an exciting metropolis, but also an opportunity for a variety of unforgettable day trips. Get ready to uncover some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations on the best day trips from Zurich!

In just a few hours from the city, you can witness the mighty Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, or climb the heights of Mount Titlis. You might want to explore the enchanting streets and historic landmarks of Lucerne on a city tour. And for the quintessential Swiss experience, book a train ride through the spectacular Swiss Alps .

Zurich is your ticket to exploring the unparalleled beauty of Switzerland . Curious about what awaits? Check out 24 of the best day trips from Zurich by train below!

Here's a Short Cut

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Switzerland:

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Situated at the northern tip of Lake Zurich is the city of Zurich. It has over a thousand years of history, evident in its charming cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. Once a Roman settlement, Zurich has evolved into a thriving global hub while still retaining its historic charm.

Zurich is renowned for its business, but there’s so much more here! You’ll find art museums, commercial retail streets, performance art centers, and historical landmarks everywhere you turn. The nightlife is one of a kind in Zurich, and nature lovers can’t miss out on a boat ride on Lake Zurich, surrounded by the stunning Alps!

And Zurich’s strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring Switzerland. The world-class Swiss railway system connects you to destinations like Lucerne, Zermatt, and the shores of Lake Geneva.

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Switzerland? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

• Zurich : Baur Au Lac
• Lucerne : Burgenstock Alpine Hotel & Spa
• Zermatt: The Omnia
• Interlaken : Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
• Bern : Hotel Schweiserhof
• Geneva : Swiss Luxury Apartments
• Montreaux : Eurotel Montreaux

Getting Around Switzerland

• Unlimited Train Rides : Swiss Pass
• Renting a Car : Cheap Rental Cars or Expedia Cars
• Paragliding
• Lindt Chocolate Tour
• Lake Lucerne Cruise

What’s the Best Way to Get Around Switzerland?

If you’re planning to do a lot of day trips by train, I would definitely get the Swiss Pass which will allow you to ride the trains for free and also give you free access or deep discounts on a lot of activities around Switzerland.

When it comes to getting around Switzerland , the train system reigns supreme, offering both convenience and efficiency. And while driving provides autonomy, the train ensures relaxation and panoramic views. For day trips from Zurich, the train journey only amplifies your experience!

Hop aboard panoramic trains like the Glacier Express or GoldenPass Line for an unforgettable travel experience. You can choose from different destination packages. And all guests enjoy expansive windows that frame Switzerland’s serene lakes and majestic Alps like living artworks.

Plus, Switzerland is renowned for having one of the world’s finest train networks. Trains run like clockwork, connecting major cities and even the most picturesque day trip destinations. You might want to consider getting the Swiss Travel Pass, which grants you unlimited train rides.

I’ve done Switzerland by train and by car. Both have their pros and cons. I do love having the flexibility of having a car to explore a little deeper and a little more off-the-beaten-path, both literally and figuratively.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

20-Minute Day Trips from Zurich

Looking for something to do outside of Zurich with minimal travel? Check out these destinations, all of which are just a 20-minute train ride out of central Zurich!

 Imagine trading the cityscape for a tranquil mountain retreat less than 30 minutes from the heart of Zurich. Uetliberg Mountain, your destination, promises a day filled with natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Head to Hauptbahnhof station in central Zurich, where trains for Uetliberg leave every half hour! The 20-minute train ride itself is an experience, gradually transitioning from urban landscapes to verdant hills. Lace up your hiking shoes and follow well-defined trails that lead to the mountain’s summit!

On Uetliberg Mountain, breathe in the fresh mountain air on a picnic or a hike through dense forest trails. If you’re interested in adventure tourism, you can go paragliding here! And try to stay long enough to enjoy the sunset over the entire city of Zurich below.

Looking for easy day trips from Zurich to escape the hustle and bustle of Zurich? Baden is the perfect remedy. Just a hop away, this historic town is known for its thermal baths and medieval charm.

Upon arrival in Baden, take your time wandering through the old town. Don’t miss the chance to explore the stoic remnants of Stein Castle. Then, sink into a heavenly thermal bath and let your cares melt away!

Baden is also home to an impressive number of stand-out museums, including the Museum Langmatt, which boasts an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. Or some might be interested in the Teddy Bear Museum Baden!

As you enjoy a day in this very walkable city, you might consider a stroll along the Limmat River. Nearby, local cafes and restaurants offer a taste of local flavors, ensuring that your senses are pampered!

Another short train ride brings you to Winterthur, a cultural center with a vibrant arts scene. With the Swiss Science Center Technorama, the Fotomuseum, and a trip through the charming Old Town, this would be the perfect day trip from Zurich for families!

Every season of the year, a stroll through Winterthur’s pretty old town does not disappoint. Observe historic buildings or peruse a street market. And one of the most popular attractions in the city is the Swiss Science Center Technorama. The science museum features interactive exhibits that explore the wonders of science and technology.

Art lovers will want to visit the Museum Oskar Reinhart and Kunstmuseum Winterthur, 2 more very popular destinations within Winterthur. Or if you’re here during the summer, the hilltop Rosengarten in Old Town is absolutely beautiful with hundreds of rose varieties!

Full-Day Trips from Zurich

 The best day trips from Zurich by train are anywhere from an hour to 3 hours one way. Below, you can read about the most popular day trip destinations, as well as some unassuming gems!

3.5 hours by car

I only recommend taking this day trip from Zurich if you have a rental car, otherwise it will take too long by train. Zermatt and the Matterhorn are must-sees when you’re in Switzerland, so even if you don’t take a day trip, it’s worth spending the night if you need to.

Zermatt is most famous for its incredible views of the Matterhorn, but there’s a lot more to this picturesque town. It’s home to some of the most scenic train rides on Earth and some great restaurants and shopping as well.

Zermatt is also the end of the  Walker’s Haute Route , which is a massive hike through the Swiss Alps that begins in Chamonix, France, and traverses some of the most beautiful scenery in Switzerland, ending in Zermatt. You can take the Gornergrat Railway (one of the most scenic train rides in the world), Hike from Gornegrat to Riffelsee, and visit the Matterhorn museum.

30-45 minutes by train

From Zurich’s main train station, you can take a leisurely train ride along Lake Zurich to Rapperswil at the southern end. Spend a day exploring the medieval castle and its rose gardens which are the reason the city has been called the “City of Roses.”

Rapperswil has been called the “Riviera of the Alps,” with its lakefront attractions, historical charm, and top-notch shopping and dining options. Old Town is home to a wide range of designer boutiques, clothing retailers, gift shops, cafes, restaurants, and trendy food joints.

Take a walk along the lakeside promenade. And if you’re feeling up to it, visit the local Knie’s Kinderzoo, which features animals native to Switzerland.

Whether you’re an art lover or looking for a relaxing jaunt outdoors, consider visiting the Enea Tree Museum nearby. This park is home to a wide range of regional trees, as well as fascinating contemporary art sculptures by renowned artists.

1 Hour by Train

A Zurich to Lucerne day trip is one of the most popular day trips available to travelers in Switzerland. In just an hour, you’ll arrive in the heart of Lucerne, where you’ll have access to the town’s many treasures! Walk the cobblestone streets of Old Town to see beautiful examples of medieval architecture. You can visit the Richard Wagner Museum, housed in a charming villa.

And the iconic Chapel Bridge is a must-visit. This 700-year-old bridge is famous for its lovely wooden structure trimmed with colorful flowers! Nearby, the Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal) pays tribute to Swiss Guards and is absolutely moving to see in person.

On Lake Lucerne, you can take boat cruises against the stunning backdrop of surrounding mountains. Or head to the Swiss Transport Museum (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz), with its interactive exhibits on transportation history. Nearby, you can ascend Mount Pilatus via cable car ride for views that take your breath away.

A day trip to Bern is a great way to experience the diversity of the Swiss countryside in central Switzerland. In just an hour, you’ll travel from urban Zurich to this idyllic Swiss town. The entire town holds the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a storybook-perfect Old Town.

One of the best things to do in Bern is simply to roam the streets! Say hello to the famous Zytglogge Clock Tower, shop, and hunt down historic bronze statues and pretty fountains. This is also where you’ll find Switerland’s tallest cathedral, the Cathedral of Bern!

When in Bern, a visit to Bear Park is a must. Plus, you can visit the Einsteinhaus, a house museum where the mathematician lived while he was developing his Theory of Relativity. And among the many excellent museums in Bern, I recommend the Natural History Museum.

In just an hour, you can reach Basel, a cultural hotspot on the banks of the Rhine River. Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is a vibrant Swiss city that offers historical, cultural, and outdoor attractions.

Basel is known for its thriving arts scene. The city boasts over 40 museums, including art museums like Fondation Beyeler, the Museum Tinguely, and the Swiss Architecture Museum. For more variety, there’s the Toy Worlds Museum or the Jewish Museum of Switzerland.

The old town is a gorgeous maze of medieval streets and squares, anchored by the magnificent Basel Minster with its striking red sandstone façade. Make sure to check out Marketplatz. Framed by imposing medieval buildings covered in ornate architecture, the square hosts a vibrant farmer’s market and festive holiday gatherings.

And just a short walk away, the Rhine promenade invites you to take a scenic walk. During the warmer months, locals and visitors alike love to swim in the river’s cool waters. And a relaxing Rhine River cruise is a fantastic idea on a sunny day!

Neuhausen am Rheinfall and Schaffhausen just might be the most popular day trip from Zurich! This is where you can experience Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, as well as the magic of an ancient Swiss town.

Neuhausen am Rheinfall is the home of Rhine Falls. This is the perfect spot to witness the sheer power of the cascades from an observation deck. Or you can take trails along the river’s edge that take you through lush forests and close to the falls.

For a thrilling experience, take a boat to get close to the falls. It’s the ultimate way to feel the spray and energy of the cascades! For more daring activities, there’s also Adventure Park Rheinfall, where you can take on challenging ropes courses and ziplines right next to Rhine Falls!

You can also discover the source of Rhine Falls by venturing to Lake Constance, which feeds Rhine Falls nearby. This serene lake straddles 3 countries and offers boat rides that provide mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscapes.

Then, in Schaffhausen, walk into the past as you explore well-preserved medieval streets. Don’t miss the impressive Munot fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River. And a popular stop in Schaffhausen is the All-Saints Museum (Museum zu Allerheiligen), which boasts a treasure trove of art and artifacts.

1-1.5 Hours by Train

Venturing from Zurich, the towns of Arth Goldau and Einsiedeln offer a taste of Swiss beauty and spirituality in a single day trip!

Start your day in Arth-Goldau, set on the banks of beautiful Lake Zug and cradled by the Swiss Alps. You can spend your time riding bicycles along the stunning lakefront or exploring quaint local eateries by the water.

And nearby Mount Rigi is one of the most sought-after destinations in all of Switzerland. Take a cogwheel train to the top and enjoy hiking trails that offer breathtaking scenery.

Then just it’s another 30-minute train ride to Einsiedeln known to be a spiritual haven. The crown jewel here is the majestic Einsiedeln Abbey. Marvel at the baroque architecture and explore the rich history within. Plus, if you’re here in the winter, the village hosts a charming Christmas village in the square here!

1.5 Hours by Train

Stein am Rhein stands as a time capsule, offering a captivating journey back to the Middle Ages. It’s hailed as one of the best day trips from Zurich for those interested in medieval history. This charming town is like something out of a fairy tale!

The town’s well-preserved half-timbered houses are breathtaking and give you a sense of reverence for the past. Every corner of Stein am Rhein tells a story, inviting you to explore its historic nooks and crannies. The vivid frescoes that decorate the buildings just add to the town’s charm!

The church and former monastery of St. George’s Abbey is a main attraction in Stein am Rhein. Its intricate facade and ornate details paint a living picture of centuries past, so you feel like you’re walking in history. Nearby, you can explore Hohenklingen Castle, and take a stroll along the picturesque Rhine River. 

If you prefer a guided walking tour,  this one is excellent . It’s a full-day tour with transportation from Zurich that combines sightseeing at Rhine Falls with a visit to Stein am Rhein.

Nestled in eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen is perfect for those interested in unique historical attractions. The St. Gallen Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a focal point. It boasts a stunning library filled with ancient manuscripts and delicate Baroque architecture. And the city’s historical textile industry is celebrated at the Textile Museum, where you can see delicate lace creations.

Wandering through the old town, you’ll encounter medieval facades, cobblestone streets, and charming squares. The twin-spired cathedral and the Abbey Square add to the city’s architectural appeal. The Museum of Art (Kunstmuseum) houses a diverse collection of artworks made up of both classical and contemporary pieces.

Also, while you’re in St. Gallen, check out the culinary scene! It offers a wide range of traditional Swiss flavors and contemporary twists at both restaurants and fast-food locations.

For those seeking a day trip full of outdoor adventures, Glarus is a hidden gem surrounded by mountains and valleys. Take a stroll around the charming town, known for its painted wooden houses. For a taste of local flavors, explore farmers’ markets offering fresh produce and handmade goods. Then, venture into the great outdoors!

Klöntaler Lake (Klöntalersee), a nearby mountain lake, is a perfect retreat for the day. You can go hiking or mountain biking on  trails around the lake  to find waterfalls and enjoy stunning mountain views. Enjoy a tranquil lakeside picnic or rent a kayak from the Rhodannenberg Chalet.

1.5-2 Hours by Train

Fribourg is a picturesque town with a blend of French and German influences nestled in the rolling landscapes of western Switzerland. The medieval old town is packed with preserved architecture. Navigate cobblestone streets winding through Gothic buildings, visit the iconic St. Nicholas Cathedral, and walk the pedestrian-only Zaehringen Bridge.

The city’s dining scene is spectacular, from Old Town to the sleek commercial districts! You can peruse all kinds of local cafes and restaurants serving Swiss specialties, Parisian favorites, and Italian classics.

And Fribourg’s museums do not disappoint. The Art and History Museum showcases regional heritage, while the Espace Jean Tinguely-Niki de Saint Phalle adds contemporary appeal. The Sarine River winds through the city, with tranquil spots like St. Jean’s Terrace, where you can take in the city’s panoramic views.

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Chur is Switzerland’s oldest city, at around 5000 years old! Its lovely old town exudes a medieval charm, with narrow streets leading to architectural treasures like the Chur Cathedral and the Rathaus (Town Hall). The bustling markets and squares feel timeless!

For outdoor enthusiasts, Chur is a base for exploring the Rhine Gorge (Rheinschlucht), often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon.” You can explore hiking trails through the gorge or go on rafting and canoeing excursions.

Back in Chur, the Bündner Kunstmuseum showcases Swiss art, from traditional to contemporary. Chur is also a gateway to the Bernina Express , a scenic train ride that crosses the breathtaking Alps and connects Switzerland to Italy.

1.5-2 hours by Train

Although I included Mount Rigi in things to do near Arth-Goldau, it’s a well-known Swiss destination on its own! There are a few ways to reach this infamous mountain peak, but the most direct route for a day trip is by taking a train to Arth.

From here, you’ll take Embark on a cable car ride up the mountain’s slopes. The journey itself is a scenic delight, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, you can board Europe’s oldest cogwheel railway, providing an authentic Swiss experience.

At the summit, be prepared to be stunned speechless by the panoramic vistas, from Lake Lucerne to the Swiss Alps beyond. Mount Rigi also offers an array of well-marked hiking trails and nature walks suitable for all levels. Hike through lush meadows, dense forests, and alpine slopes. You won’t believe the clouds up here, and don’t be surprised if a cow greets you on the trail!

2 Hours by Train

Appenzell is a village in northeastern Switzerland where you can experience the essence of Swiss tradition while soaking in classic Alpine scenery. The colorful village is set symphony of rolling hills, verdant meadows, and rustic farms. It’s the ideal backdrop for your exploration of Swiss culture!

Appenzell’s colorful buildings are why it’s one of the best day trips from Zurich! The village’s traditional architecture is heavily painted with bright hues and cheerful patterns. Just wandering the streets and popping in storefronts is satisfying for any visitor.

While you’re exploring, head to the Appenzeller Brewery to try the famous Appenzeller beer. Or explore the cheese shops and chocolate shops found throughout the colorful old town. And for a bit more culture, you can get a feel for the region by visiting the Appenzell Museum. Exhibits here showcasing folk art, historical artifacts, and insights into the village’s past.

Cheese lovers, this one’s for you! Gruyères is famed for its namesake cheese. But it’s also known to be one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Switzerland! Spend your time wandering the Renaissance-era village, admiring the wood and stone structures from a bygone era.

The Gruyères Castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the past. While you’re here, make sure to visit La Maison du Gruyère, where you’ll learn about the cheese-making process. And then head to a local eatery to indulge in a mouthwatering fondue!

And fans of the “Alien” movies can check out this next unique attraction: the H.R. Giger Museum. This art museum inside of a medieval castle showcases the surreal and creative works of the Swiss artist behind the infamous science fiction series!

Just a scenic 2-hour train ride away, Interlaken is an adventurer’s paradise positioned between Lakes Thun and Brienz. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Zurich for adrenaline seekers. It’s often a base for exploring the Jungfrau Region. But this resort town is a dreamy destination on its own, with charming streets set against crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped mountains!

Interlaken’s food scene offers everything from cozy Swiss chalets to global eateries. You can enjoy local specialties like fondue and raclette. Or savor international cuisines, including Italian, Lebanese, and Asian.

Additionally, the resort town boasts several day spas where visitors can unwind and relax. These spas provide a range of treatments and services, including massages, facials, and wellness therapies, all set against the backdrop of Interlaken’s serene surroundings.

Venture across the border to Colmar, a fairytale-like town in France’s Alsace region. It makes an ideal day trip, offering a taste of France within a manageable journey from Zurich!

Colmar, nestled in the Alsace region of France, makes for a captivating day trip from Zurich. Stroll through the well-preserved old town, where half-timbered houses adorned with vibrant flowers line the streets. The historic district, known as “Little Venice,” offers picturesque canals and charming bridges.

Colmar’s cultural scene shines through its museums, like the Unterlinden Museum, a religious art museum set in a converted convent from the 1200s. And the Bartholdi Museum is a must-visit. This museum honors the creator of the Statue of Liberty, who was born in Colmar!

While in France, make it a point to savor Alsatian cuisine at local bistros. Here, dishes like tarte flambée and choucroute (sauerkraut) reflect the region’s fascinating culinary heritage.

2.5 Hours by Train

Lausanne, situated on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, is a vibrant Swiss city known for its truly diverse attractions. If you’re a fan of the Olympic Games, Lausanne is the Olympic Capital of the world! It’s where the International Olympic Committee headquarters is located, and you can visit the Olympic Museum here.

for history lovers, head to the city’s Old Town, where you can explore charming cobblestone streets and squares. The impressive 12th-century Lausanne Cathedral is a focal point of the city’s oldest history. And just a few steps away, the Palais de Rumine is a must-see destination. This stunning 200-year-old palace is home to several different museums!

With its lakeside location, Lausanne’s Ouchy district offers a variety of pretty lakefront promenades and parks for your enjoyment. And Lausanne’s local markets, shopping malls, boutiques, and cafes will please any shopper.

A 2.5-hour train ride lands you in the sunny town of Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of southern Switzerland. Its mix of Swiss efficiency and Italian influences makes for an interesting place to visit!

The city sits by Lake Lugano, giving it lovely lakefront views and a wonderful, balmy climate. Start your visit with a stop at the lakeside Parco Ciani, where you can sit by the water or take a relaxing walk. And the historic Old Town offers impressive retail options, whether you’re into boutiques, local markets, or international brands.

Lugano’s cultural scene includes spots like the Museo d’Arte della Svizzera Italiana, highlighting Swiss and Italian art. And while it’s a bit far to walk, for fans of the German writer, the Hermann Hesse Museum is worth paying for a car to reach.

2.5-3 hours by Train and Cable Car

One of the most popular day trips from Zurich is Mount Titlis. It’s a journey that promises thrilling Alpine adventures! From Engelberg, you’ll  ride a cable car  to arrive at Glacier Park. Here, you can take an exhilarating ride on the Glacier Park snow slide or take the Ice Flyer chairlift, with its stunning panoramas.

For the bravest, take on the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge! Suspended over a deep glacier crevasse, it offers breathtaking views and a touch of adrenaline. And in the Glacier Cave, you’ll explore intricate ice formations and learn about the glacier’s formation.

And I highly recommend setting aside time in your day to explore Engelberg! The village offers a variety of opportunities for hiking, shopping, and enjoying Swiss cuisine.

2.5-3 Hours by Train

Embark on a memorable day in the Jungfrau region, beginning with the picturesque village of Grindelwald. Nestled among snow-capped mountains, Grindelwald glows with Alpine charm. As you explore the main thoroughfare lined with shops and eateries, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

Next, you’ll take the famous Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe.” This legendary cogwheel train journey offers unbelievable views of the Alps while you climb to an altitude of almost 3,500 meters!

At the top, you can go inside the Ice Palace, a cavern sculpted from ice that features fun ice sculptures. You can also stroll the observation platforms, taking in the snow-clad peaks that make you feel like you’re really on top of the world.

While there’s no direct train ride to Alpstein, this is one of the best day trips from Zurich for outdoor lovers! Alpstein is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Head out early and enjoy a day exploring lush meadows, rolling hills, and rugged peaks.

You’ll find a wide range of where well-marked trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints. As you explore Alpstein’s trails, you’re likely to encounter charming Alpine huts and grazing cows, which only add to the region’s Swiss charm!

Take a cable car ride to Ebenalp Peak. This is where the famous Aescher Mountain Guesthouse is, perched dramatically on a cliff. It’s an exciting visit and a unique spot to enjoy a meal with stunning views! And the Säntis Cable Car transports you to the highest peak in the region, rewarding you with unparalleled Alpine views.

Zurich Day Trips FAQ

On a day trip from Zurich, you can explore some amazing neighboring countries. Head to Germany to experience cities like Konstanz, known for its charming old town and beautiful lake views. You can also visit destinations in France, like Strasbourg, which is famous for its unique blend of French and German influences. And don’t miss a trip to Liechtenstein, a tiny yet picturesque country known for its Alpine landscapes and Vaduz Castle.

Embarking on day trips from Zurich by train opens up a realm of opportunities for you! The majestic Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, is just a train ride away. You can go on a city tour in Lucerne, wandering cobbled streets and admiring the iconic Chapel Bridge. Or delve into medieval history with a trip to Bern, the capital city. With convenient train connections, these enchanting destinations promise unforgettable adventures with reach of Zurich.

Absolutely! Lucerne makes for a fantastic day trip from Zurich. The train ride itself is a picturesque journey through Swiss landscapes. Once there, you’ll be captivated by the charming beauty of Lucerne. Stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge and enjoy the serene views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. Also, consider a visit to the Swiss Transport Museum to learn about the city’s rich history. Or you can climb Mount Pilatus for breathtaking views.

For day trips from Zurich, the “GoldenPass Line” stands out as the most scenic train journey. Connecting Lucerne to Montreux puts Switzerland’s diverse beauty on display! You’ll pass through lush meadows, charming villages, and the enchanting landscapes of the Swiss Alps. Marvel at stunning Lake Geneva and catch glimpses of iconic peaks like the Matterhorn. This train ride boasts oversized, panoramic windows for taking in the breathtaking views.

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The 7 best day trips from Zürich

Apr 27, 2023 • 5 min read

Explore more of Switzerland and beyond with these top day trips from Zürich © Sze Lung Ng / Getty Images

Stacked with museums, galleries, and Switzerland ’s best gourmet scene , Zürich  is a pleasure to visit.

Excellent public transport also makes the city a fantastic base for exploring the region, with day trip options including visits to charming old towns, soaks in thermal baths and a cruise to an island on Lake Zürich. Here are our favorite excursions.

1. Explore the old town of Lucerne

Travel time: 1 hour

Is  Lucerne Switzerland’s prettiest city? You be the judge after swooning at its cobalt lake and well-preserved medieval Altstadt (old town) with candy-colored houses and waterfront promenades. Don’t miss the creaky 14th-century  Kapellbrücke , a covered bridge that zig zags across the Reuss River. Contemplate the  Lion Monument , a 10m-long sculpture of a dying lion that Mark Twain called the “saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world”. Get a bird’s-eye view of it all by wandering along the top of the  old city walls .

How to get to Lucerne from Zürich: Frequent trains depart from Zürich’s main station.

2. Wander around Winterthur’s atmospheric old town

Travel time: 25 minutes

Winterthur is home to the truly stupendous art collections amassed by Oskar Reinhart , including works by German Romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich. Here, you’ll also find one of Europe’s foremost  photography museums , and the fantastic, hands-on Technorama devoted to science. The medieval turreted castle  Schloss Kyburg tops a crag just south of Winterthur, while the pedestrian-only old town is lined with pastel-painted, terracotta-tiled boutiques, cafes and bars such as  La Cyma .

How to get to Winterthur from Zürich: Frequent trains depart from Zürich’s main station.

3. Catch sunset atop Uetliberg, Zürich’s local peak

Travel time: 30 minutes

Uetliberg is the mountain on Zürich’s doorstep, ablaze with wildflowers in spring and daubed with russets and golds in fall. Head up this 869m (2850ft) peak to hike, jog or mountain bike on the trails that criss-cross the woods, such as the  Planetenweg , a 6km (3.7 mile) route across the mountain ridge that’s marked by 1:1 billion scale models of the planets. At the summit is Uetliberg Aussichtsturm , a steel lattice observation tower with fine views over the city, Lake Zürich and, in the far distance, the Alps. Sunset is prime-time viewing and a chance to enjoy a drink or meal at the  Hotel Uto Kulm .

How to get to Uetliberg from Zürich: Train S10 runs to Uetliberg. From the terminus it's a 10-minute uphill walk to the viewpoint.

4. Feel the power of the Rheinfall, Europe’s largest waterfall

Travel time: 55 minutes

Formed by tectonic shifts during the last ice age 15,000 years ago, the Rheinfall is a real crash-bang spectacle. The river cascades 23m (75ft) across a width of 150m (492ft) creating billowing plumes of spray and raging white water in the basin below. In summer, ferries head to the tall rock in the middle of the falls, which you can climb and watch the water rush all around you. Otherwise, follow the trail that wends down from medieval Schloss Laufen to the Känzeli viewing platform. A visit to the falls can easily be combined with exploring the quaint medieval town of Schaffhausen, which is 4km (2.5 miles) away.

How to get to Rheinfall from Zürich: Take the S9 train to Neuhausen Rheinfall station.

5. Cycle around the tiny principality of Liechtenstein

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Only 25km (15.5 miles) long by 12km (7.5 miles) wide at its broadest point,  Liechtenstein is the stuff of pure fairy tales: a mountain principality crowned by turreted castles such as that in Vaduz , its capital. From the tourist office here hire an e-bike to follow the 59km (37 mile)  Drei Länder Tour (Three Countries Tour), which leads to the medieval town of Feldkirch in Austria. The route then heads on to Illspitz and down along the Rhine to Buchs in Switzerland – dominated by its 13th-century castle,  Schloss Werdenberg – before heading back to Vaduz.

How to get to Liechtenstein from Zürich: Take the train to the border town of Sargans. From there, frequent buses head to Vaduz.

6. Sail to an island from lakeside Rapperswil

Travel time: 40 minutes

Known as the "city of roses" thanks to its profusion of the fragrant blooms, Rapperswil is a cultured little town on the eastern shore of Lake Zürich. Dominating the skyline is the late-12th-century castle  Schloss Rapperswil . On the slopes beneath is one of the oldest vineyards on Lake Zürich and a herd of fallow deer. The town’s  Kunst(zeug)haus is a forward-thinking art gallery, and  Stadtmuseum Rapperswil-Jona  is a history museum with a striking facade that combines modernist perforated bronze with a 14th-century stone tower. Stroll along the lakeside promenade then take a short ferry ride to the island of  Ufenau , a nature reserve with medieval churches and a restaurant serving fresh battered fish, a local speciality.

How to get to Rapperswil from Zürich: The S5, S7 or S15 trains are the fastest way here. A cruise across Lake Zürich from Bürkliplatz takes two hours.

7. Relax in one of Baden’s mineral rich spas

Travel time: 15 minutes

The Romans were the first to harness the wellness powers of the 18 sulphur springs that bubble up around Baden. Roughly 800,000 liters (176,000 gallons) a day of Switzerland's most mineral-rich thermal water is pushed at temperatures of as much as 68°C (154°F). Most of Baden's springs have been channeled into spa hotels and complexes such as  FORTYSEVEN and the Roman Bath at  Hotel Blume . Along the Limmat River are a couple of small, open-air  municipal baths that you can freely take a dip in. Baden’s Old Town is adorned by a fetching covered timber bridge (the Holzbrücke), cobbled lanes and an assortment of step-gabled houses. Also check out the  Stiftung Langmatt , a gorgeous mansion housing a cornucopia of French impressionist art and surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

How to get to Baden from Zürich: Take trains IR16 or IR36 from Zürich's main station.

This article was first published May 20, 2021 and updated Apr 27, 2023.

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14 Top-Rated Day Trips from Zürich

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Apr 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Zürich's location in north-central Switzerland, plus the country's excellent rail network, makes it a good base for day trips. In an easy day from Zürich , you can sample Switzerland's magnificent Alpine scenery, ride trains to mountaintops, visit postcard villages , travel to the tiny principality of Liechtenstein , delve into history, take lake cruises, and admire impressive waterfalls.

If you are traveling in the winter, along with sightseeing, you can even spend a day at one of Switzerland's best ski resorts , in the Bernese Oberland.

You can also explore the many things to do in lovely Lucerne and cruise its lake in an authentic paddlewheel steamboat, or stroll the streets of the Swiss capital of Bern. Travel by train is easy in Switzerland, or you can sign up for one of the many day tours that explore the tourist attractions around Zürich.

Whether you're taking a break from business in Zurich or visiting Switzerland with your family, you'll find plenty of places to visit with our list of the best day trips from Zurich.

1. Jungfraujoch and the Bernese Oberland

3. mount titlis, 4. rheinfall (rhine falls), 5. eastern swiss alps and liechtenstein, 7. stein am rhein, 8. schaffhausen, 9. winterthur, 10. mount pilatus, 11. st. gallen, 12. the spa town of baden, 14. regensberg, map of day trips from zürich.

The three famous peaks of the Jungfrau massif — the Jungfrau, the Mönch, and the Eiger — are in the heart of one of Switzerland's most beautiful regions, the Bernese Oberland . Along with the snowcapped mountains, long-time favorites of skiers and climbers, the region's steep green pastures and idyllic little Alpine villages like Wengen and beautiful Lauterbrunnen , set beneath long, ribbon-like waterfalls, have made it a popular place to visit for more than a century.

The largest town is Interlaken , named for its scenic setting between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. In Grindelwald, you can board a cog railway that climbs to the Jungfraujoch mountain pass, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its remarkable scenery.

At the highest railroad station in Europe, at 3,454 meters, the Jungfraujoch has a hotel, restaurants, research stations, and an Ice Palace carved into the glacier. Ride the elevator to a viewing platform at the summit of the Sphinx for views of the Aletsch glacier and Alps. The trip up the Jungfraujoch is one of the best things to do in Switzerland .

The 11-hour Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich can take you through this spectacular region by coach and includes the cog railway to the Jungfraujoch and a trip through the Ice Palace inside the glacier and to the viewing platform at the summit of the Sphinx.

Spread along the banks of the River Reuss as it flows out of Lake Lucerne, Lucerne was an important medieval trading town and retains many of its old features in its compact center. Most tourists head first to Lucerne's most popular landmark, the Kapellbrücke , a covered wooden bridge built in 1333.

Inside are more than 100 pictures of saints and scenes from the town's history. The octagonal Wasserturm beside it is a 13th-century water tower from the town's fortifications. Paintings inside the second covered wooden bridge, the 1406 Spreuerbrücke , depict the Dance of Death.

Take time to explore the Altstadt, the old town on the right bank of the Reuss, to admire the brightly painted old burghers' houses, timber-framed buildings, and little squares with fountains. Look especially for the Kornmarkt with the Altes Rathaus , built in 1602-06, and the adjoining 14th-century tower.

The picturesque Weinmarkt has an elaborate Gothic fountain. The 9.5-hour Lucerne City Tour can take you from central Zurich over the scenic Albis Pass to the heart of Lucerne for a guided sightseeing tour. After visiting landmarks like the Kapellbrücke and the Lion Monument with your guide and learning about Lucerne's history, you'll have plenty of time to explore on your own, returning to museums, or even to take a cruise on one of the lake excursion boats.

It's not just spectacular 360-degree Alpine views that await you at the 3,238-meter summit of Mount Titlis . Atop this lofty crest are several ways to explore the glacier and the Alpine environment.

The trip from Zürich takes you past Lucerne and along its scenic lake shore to Engelberg in the Swiss Alps. There, you begin your ascent of Mount Titlis, arriving at the summit via a revolving cable car that reveals the changing scenery in all directions as you climb. At the top are the fascinating ice boulders and deep crevasses , which you can see up close from the Ice Flyer chairlift . A trip down the Glacier Park snow slide turns this frozen world into a giant natural playground.

For more thrills and views, walk across Europe's highest suspension bridge . Or just soak up the scenery from a café on the mountaintop sunny terrace. The Mount Titlis Day Tour from Zurich combines the scenic vistas of the mountaintop with a guided tour of the highlights of Lucerne. In the winter, the 9.5-hour excursion includes time to slide downhill on snow tubes or even ski on the beginner slopes, with equipment provided.

After emerging from the west end of Lake Constance, the Rhine River flows through a beautiful green valley, then plunges over the Rhine Falls before flowing on toward Basel. The mightiest falls in Central Europe surge over a ledge of Jurassic limestone 150 meters across and up to 21 meters high, with two higher rocks standing in the middle of the river. The flow of water is at its greatest in June and July, after the mountain snows melt.

The falls are easily visible from both sides, and you can see them from below on a 30-minute boat tour through the churning waters. Another fine vantage point, especially at night when the falls are floodlit, is from the Schlössli Wörth , set on a tiny island that from the 13th to the 19th centuries was an important shipping and reloading area for goods on the trading route from Lake Constance to Basel. Today, it is a fine-dining restaurant and café with a terrace overlooking the falls.

The half-day Rhine Falls Tour from Zurich takes you there, on a climate-controlled coach ride past castles and through the beautiful town of Schaffhausen. This is a good tour if your flight arrives in Zurich before your hotel is ready, or even if you are just passing through the city, as there is the option of an airport pickup and drop-off.

East of Zurich is a beautiful land of lakes and green valleys that quickly soar to Alpine peaks. Known to children everywhere as the homeland of Heidi, the region is dotted with charming mountain villages in magnificent Alpine settings. One of these, Maienfeld , is the setting for the children's classic Heidi , and one of its rustic homes has been furnished as described in the book. Heidi House is open to visitors in the summer and is a favorite photo-op all year.

Between this "Heidiland" and the Austrian Alps is the tiny principality of Liechtenstein , with its hilltop Royal Castle and famous postage stamps. Its capital, Vaduz, is the smallest in Europe, a picturesque town on the banks of the Rhine River. Liechtenstein has five castles, two of which - the royal residence of Schloss Vaduz and Burg Gutenberg in the village of Balzers - are intact, and the other three are romantic ruins.

You can tour this region with the Heidiland and Liechtenstein Tour from Zurich: Two Countries in One Day , with a guide who can point out landmarks and fill in the history and culture as you travel by coach through the stunning scenery. The trip begins with a city tour of Zurich before traveling along the shores of Lake Zurich to Rapperswil, with its medieval castle.

A stop in the village of Maienfeld allows plenty of time to visit the Heidi House if it's open, and there is time to explore Liechtenstein's capital of Vaduz.

The capital of Switzerland is only 125 kilometers southwest of Zurich and easy to reach by direct train. Bern's Old Town has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its streets of 17th- and 18th-century houses and shops, characterized by steep roofs and street-front arcades.

The Old Town of Bern is even more picturesque because of its dramatic setting atop a high ridge that is almost completely encircled by the River Aare. The Old Town is where you'll find many of the main attractions, which include its famous clock tower with moving figures and the splendid Munster. But Bern's main draw for tourists is the old city itself, with its charming, stone-paved streets and lanes, its beautiful fountains, steep roofs, and towers.

You can combine a tour of Bern with visits to sample two of Switzerland's most famous products, Emmental cheese and Kambly Swiss biscuits, on a 10.5-hour Bern Day Trip from Zurich . With a guide to point out landmarks as you drive through the Entlebuch Valley and Upper Emmental Valley and bring them to life with a little history, you'll tour Bern's old Town and stop between Bern and Zurich to watch demonstrations of biscuit and cheese-making, with samples of each to taste.

Arriving in Stein am Rhein, about an hour from Zürich by train, you feel as though you've been dropped abruptly into medieval Switzerland. Except that the timbered buildings that line its main street are in far better condition than they probably were in the Middle Ages. Colorful frescoes, also beautifully maintained, decorate the buildings around Rathausplatz , the cozy main square. Flowers hang from window boxes, making every angle photo-worthy.

One of the most charming towns in Europe , Stein am Rhein began as a Roman fortress beside the Rhine, built in the third century to secure the river. Learn more about the town's long history at the museum inside Hohenklingen Castle , built above the town in 1225.

Views from the castle encompass the compact town and the river valley. Visit the well-preserved Medieval Monastery of St. Georgen , browse among the works of local artisans in the excellent gallery, or just linger in a Rathausplatz café to savor Stein am Rhein's Medieval atmosphere .

The old town of Schaffhausen, about 50 kilometers from Zürich, is a postcard-perfect scene of colorfully painted timber-frame houses with oriel windows and coats of arms on the facades. On Fronwagplatz are the Fronwag tower and two fountains from the 1500s, while the single-towered Münster , built from 1087 to 1150, was originally the church of a Benedictine abbey. Be sure to see the delicate 12th-century arcades in the cloister.

The handsome convent buildings now house All Saints Museum , one of the richest local museums in Switzerland, with collections of prehistoric material, religious art, period rooms, traditional costumes, and works by modern Swiss artists. Its two chapels from the 11th century and a Romanesque loggia are good places to visit as well.

Overlooking the old town and river from a vine-clad hill is 16th-century Kastell Munot , a circular castle fortified with walls more than five meters thick. Not only is the well-preserved castle interesting, it provides fine views of the town and the Rhine valley.

Winterthur, about 26 kilometers from Zürich, can thank the thriving craft industry of its past for today's art and cultural largesse. The little triangular Old Town still preserves streets with rows of old burghers' houses - look especially for the Waaghaus in Moorish-Gothic style, Zur Geduld with an Early Baroque façade, the elegantly Rococo Hans zum Adler at the Obertor, and the graffiti on the Hans zum Hinteren Waldhorn.

For its size, Winterthur is well endowed with museums: applied and decorative art in the industrial museum, a natural history museum, a clock collection, and three separate art museums. One of these, the Oskar Reinhart Collection includes works by Rubens, Rembrandt, El Greco, Goya, Renoir, and Cézanne.

At the excellent Technorama of Switzerland , you can learn about science and technology in compelling exhibits filled with hands-on activities that make it a favorite place to go for families.

The trip up Mt. Pilatus gives you a taste of the various feats of Swiss engineering as well as a chance to sample both the cable cars and the mountain cog railways that make so many mountain towns and mountaintop views accessible.

The trip from Zürich passes through Lucerne before arriving at Kriens, where you board a panoramic gondola then an aerial cable car to just below the 2,132-meter summit of Mount Pilatus. From the terrace are panoramic views of central Switzerland and the Alps. Short trails lead to the various peaks of this rugged limestone massif, for even broader views.

For a full sampling of Swiss mountain transport, make your return trip down Mount Pilatus by cogwheel railway, traveling at a gradient of 48 percent, one of the world's steepest for a railway. The cog railway brings you to Alpnachstad, from where you can return to Lucerne by boat on a scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne before returning to Zürich.

You can book this entire trip in one package by taking the Mount Pilatus Summer Day Trip from Zurich . This 9.5-hour tour travels by air-conditioned coach to Lucerne, where there is time to explore the old town's attractions before beginning the circular route on Mt Pilatus by gondola, aerial cable car, and cogwheel railway. At the top of the mountain, the tour includes a moderate hike and ends with a cruise on the lake before returning to Zurich.

Just over an hour by train from Zurich, the lovely town of St. Gallen holds a treasury of Baroque buildings, making its streets a delight to stroll. Foremost of these is the magnificent Abbey of St. Gall , a former monastery founded in the early 700s, and for many centuries one of the most influential Benedictine abbeys in Europe and an important center of culture and learning.

The highlight of the abbey is the library, a magnificent hall under a Baroque ceiling with frescoed medallions framed in elaborate gold-washed scrolls and flourishes. The ranks of shelves and the exquisite curving gallery are finely detailed and embellished in inlaid woods. It is one of the world's oldest monastic libraries.

The former abbey church, itself a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and decoration, is now the Cathedral of St. Gallen. The abbey complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take time to visit the Textile Museum , with beautifully presented exhibits of textile arts that range from ancient Egyptian lace to modern textiles. St. Gallen was a center for textiles, and the linen woven here was known as "white gold' for its finesse.

On the shores of the Limmat, the same river that flows through the center of Zurich, Baden was known for its thermal springs as far back as Roman times. The therapeutic waters of its hot springs have the highest mineral concentration of any of Switzerland's many spas.

While many of the spas and hotels offer luxury wellness programs, there are plenty of places for the public to bathe in the pools fed by the hot springs. Some of these are free, such as the Thermalbank, an eight-meter-long bench where you can soak your feet in the hot waters.

Opening in 2021, the city's stunning new bathing center was designed by Ticino Architect Mario Botta, and includes cafés and gathering spaces along with bathing pools.

More attractions bring tourists to Baden, including its charming medieval center of towers and half-timbered houses, and a world-class art museum. The Langmatt Foundation is one of Switzerland's finest collections of art from the Impressionist period. Baden is a 20-minute train ride from Zurich's central station.

South of the Walensee and an easy drive or train ride from Zürich, the little canton of Glarus occupies one of the most beautiful valleys in the Alps. Rising above it on the west is the 2,332-meter ridge of Glärisch, and the massive bulk of Tödi, at 3,614 meters, closes its southern end.

From Linthal, a cableway connects to the traffic-free resort of Braunwald , an ideal jumping-off point for walking and climbing. Although the Freulerpalast in Näfels has a magnificent Renaissance doorway and Early Baroque interior that houses the Cantonal Museum, the main attractions for tourists are not architecture or museums but the scenic splendor of Glarus and its opportunities for outdoor adventures.

You can drive, take a post bus, or walk from Netstal to cross the Schwammhöhe into the high Klöntal , one of the most beautiful and romantic of Alpine valleys, with the Klöntalersee and a series of tumbling mountain streams.

Above the south side of the Klöntalersee rear the rock walls of Glärnisch , and below them is the canton capital of Glarus. The drive over the Klausen Pass to Altdorf is breathtakingly beautiful, and continues down the Schächen valley, where you'll find the 93-meter-high Staubi waterfalls .

About 18 kilometers northwest of Zürich, Regensberg is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Switzerland. Among the carefully restored old burghers' houses is the half-timbered Rote Rose (Red Rose) house from 1540.

The five-story round tower (Rundturm), whose walls are three meters thick, is all that remains of the 12 th -century castle. The rest dates from the 16 th century, including the 57-meter-deep draw-well, the deepest in the country. Inside the tower is a small museum of the castle's and town's history.

More on Switzerland

15 amazing day trips from Zurich, Switzerland

As Switzerland’s largest city and hub of culture, business, and finance, I adore the city of Zurich and think it’s a wonderful hotspot for travellers.

Yet I love that the city’s central location also makes it an excellent starting point to explore the surrounding regions and nearby fairytale Swiss towns .

With picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historical landmarks, there is no shortage of day trips from Zurich that are worth taking.

From the stunning Rhine Falls to the quaint mediaeval town of Stein am Rhein, there are plenty of Zurich day trips for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

For those interested in history, I’d recommend the charming town of Einsiedeln, with its impressive abbey, as an excellent choice.

Alternatively, I’d suggest that nature lovers head to the idyllic Lucerne, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the lake and mountains.

In this guide, I share 15 of the best day trips from Zurich, based on my own personal experiences and recommendations from locals. I’ve also included handy tips on how to get there and what to see.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing break in nature or an exciting adrenaline-fuelled adventure, I’ve got something for you on this list.

So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the best day trips from Zurich together.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Swiss Travel Pass

First up, I highly recommend getting the Swiss Travel Pass if you plan to travel around Switzerland. It’s a popular travel pass that allows you to explore Switzerland’s landscape by train, bus, and boat.

The pass offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, including trains, buses, and boats, as well as free admission to over 500 museums and attractions across the country.

It’s available for different durations, ranging from three to 15 days, and can be purchased online or at train stations in Switzerland.

I found the Swiss Travel Pass to be a great way to save money on transportation and sightseeing while exploring the beautiful landscapes and cities of Switzerland.

Day trips from Zurich: mountains and lakes

Switzerland is famous for its stunning mountains and lakes, and I think Zurich is the perfect base from which to explore them.

Here are six of my favourite day trips from Zurich for those looking to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Lucerne & Mount Pilatus

Best for: Railway lovers

Travel times:

• By train: 41 minutes
• By car: 1 hour

Top three things to do: 

• Take a trip up Mount Pilatus
• Relax on a yacht cruise on Lake Lucerne
• Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus Day Tour  

Lucerne is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by the towering Swiss mountains.

Here, I’d recommend taking a boat ride on the lake, exploring the historic old town, and visiting the famous Chapel Bridge. But for me, the highlight of any day in Lucerne is a journey up Mount Pilatus.

You’ll ascend on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy breathtaking and unparalleled views of the surrounding Alps.

Insider travel tip: During the winter season – November to February – Lucerne is a hub for snow sports. Everyone is hitting the slopes, so museums and other indoor attractions are quite quiet. 

Best for: Adrenaline junkies

• By train: 1 hour 54 minutes
• By car: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Ascend to the Harder Kulm Viewpoint
• Get your adrenaline pumping with a tandem paraglide
• Take a trip to Giessbach Falls

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zurich: Day-Trip to Interlaken

Interlaken is a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, with activities such as paragliding, bungee jumping , and daring white-water rafting on offer.

But even if you’re not an adrenaline junkie like me, Interlaken is worth a visit for its gorgeous scenery alone. 

I’d recommend taking a stroll along the shores of Lake Brienz or Lake Thun, or taking a cable car up to the top of Harder Kulm for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

See the Swiss Alps in all their glory and marvel at the natural beauty on show. Discover more of the best things to do in Interlaken in my guide.

Or if you fancy staying for a night or two (and I recommend that you do as it’s an excellent base for exploring nearby areas), read my guide to the best hotels in Interlaken .

Insider travel tip: One of the best ways to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Interlaken is to take a boat ride on Lake Brienz .

Grindelwald

Best for: Skiers and hikers

• By train: 2 hours 35 minutes
• By car: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Visit the Gletscherschlucht gorge (Grindelwald Glacier Gorge)
• Hire Trotti Bikes
• Take a trip up First Mountain

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zurich: Day Trip to Grindelwald & Interlaken

I adore the charming village of Grindelwald, which is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. It’s a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, but it’s also well worth a visit in the summer for its beautiful hiking trails. 

In my opinion, the highlight of any trip to Grindelwald is a journey up to the top of the First Mountain for the popular Cliff Walk.

Here, you’ll walk across a suspension bridge that offers incredible views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Watch my Grindelwald travel vlog for more inspiration for visiting this beautiful spot. Or discover more amazing ski resorts near Zurich .

Lake Geneva

Best for: Water sports lovers

• By train: 2 hours 46 minutes
• By car: 3 hours
• Take a boat ride on the lake
• Visit the flower clock
• See the Geneva water fountains

Not only is Lake Geneva the largest lake in Switzerland, it is also one of the largest lakes in the whole of Europe.

Surrounded by beautiful scenery and awe-inspiring alpine views, Lake Geneva is the perfect day trip from Zurich if you want to immerse yourself in nature. 

While visiting the stunning lake, I’d recommend taking a cruise on the water, exploring the charming nearby towns of Montreux and Vevey, or visiting the famous Chillon Castle.

I’d also suggest journeying up to the top of the immense Rochers-de-Naye mountain. Here you can enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Alps.

Good to know: Lake Geneva is a playground for water sports enthusiasts! Expect to see pedal boats, wakeboarders, paddle boarders and much more on the lake.

If you’re trying to decide between the two cities, read my guide to choosing between Geneva or Zurich .

Jungfraujoch

Best for: Panoramic views of the Swiss Alps

Travel times to nearby Grindelwald:

• Explore the Ice Palace
• Visit the world’s highest Lindt shop
• See the longest glacier in the Alps

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zurich: Guided Day Trip to Jungfraujoch with Train Ride

Lovingly known as the “Top of Europe”, Jungrfraujoch is by far one of the most popular day trips from Zurich.

Take the Jungfraujoch railway to Europe’s highest railway station and enjoy unmatched views from 3,454 metres above sea level.

Once you reach the peak, I love that there are still plenty of things to see and do.

Explore the Ice Palace and discover the incredible frosty sculptures made by renowned artists. Or I’d recommend indulging in a sweet treat at the world’s highest Lindt shop. 

Good to know: The railway journey to the top of Jungfraujoch is not cheap – tickets cost around CHF 200 per person (depending on season).

However, I really believe that the once-in-a-lifetime experience is well worth the cost.

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Mount Titlis

Best for: Walking underneath a glacier

• By train: 1 hour 43 minutes (to nearby Engelberg)
• By car: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Brave the Cliff Walk
• Explore the Glacier Cave
• Take the Ice Flyer

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zurich: Mount Titlis Day Tour

Mount Titlis is another popular day trip from Zurich for those wanting to experience the power of nature. It’s known for its captivating views and unique attractions.

Here, you can ride on the famous Ice Flyer, soaring high above the glaciers below.  If you’re brave enough, the Cliff Walk taking you across a suspension bridge held 3,041 metres above sea level is a must.

I’d also recommend trekking 10 metres below the glacier into the Glacier Cave for an unforgettable experience. Basking in turquoise light, the ice in this cave is up to 5,000 years old. 

Insider travel tip: If you get peckish at the top of Mount Titlis, the stunning Titlis Panoramic Restaurant serves up delicious dishes against a backdrop of the magical glacier. 

Day trips from Zurich: historic towns

Zurich is surrounded by several historic towns that are perfect for a day trip. These towns are rich in history, architecture, and culture.

Here are some of my favourite historic towns to visit on a day trip from Zurich:

Best for: Historic landmarks

• By train: 56 minutes
• By car: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Tour the old town
• See the bears at BärenPark
• Book a helicopter flight over the Swiss Alps

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zurich/Lucerne: Berne Capital and Countryside Day-Trip

As the Swiss capital, it’s no surprise that Bern is one of the best historical day trips from Zurich. Here, you’ll find mediaeval architecture with a modern flare and a UNESCO World Heritage Site certified old town. 

Discover Bern’s wealth of historic landmarks as you stroll through the city, including: the Untertorbrücke Bridge, Bern Cathedral, Zytglogge clock tower and among others, the iconic Bern fountains. 

Discover more of the best things to do in Bern or read my guide to the top hotels in Bern . You can also watch my Bern travel vlog for more inspiration.

Insider travel tip: When Parliament is not in session, you can tour the Bundeshaus (Swiss Parliament Building) for an insight into the immense history and cultural significance of Bern.

Best for: Historic art and museums

• By train: 54 minutes
• By car: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Join a walking tour through the old town
• Visit Basel Minster
• Explore the Toy Worlds Museum

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zurich: Full-Day Discover Basel & Colmar Private Tour

A charming city located on the banks of the Rhine River, Basel lies close to the borders with France and Germany.

I think this historic city makes for the most wonderful day trip from Zurich, offering a variety of art galleries and museums for you to explore.

Basel’s old town is home to several historic landmarks, including: Basel Minster, the Basel Town Hall, and the Spalentor.

Here, I’d recommend exploring the Kunstmuseum Basel – one of the oldest and most famous art museums in the world – which houses the oldest public art collection in the world.

Good to know: Basel is home to almost 40 museums, making it the perfect day trip from Zurich for those wanting to dive into Swiss culture.

Schaffhausen

Best for: Renaissance architecture

• By train: 36 minutes
• See the Rhine Falls
• Visit the Munot Fortress
• Explore the old town

Schaffhausen is a beautifully picturesque town located on the northern banks of the Rhine River.

The old town of Schaffhausen is home to several historic landmarks, including the Munot Fortress, the Fronwagplatz, and the Allerheiligen Monastery. Each holds a part of the town’s history.

Here, I’d recommend taking a boat tour of the Rhine Falls, which is the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Formed in the last Ice Age, the waterfall is a must-see when visiting Schaffhausen.

Insider travel tip: The Untersee Lake-Rhine boat trip takes you along the High Rhine from Schaffhausen to Kreuzlingen for nearly 50 kilometres and is incredibly popular with visitors.

Best for: Foodies

• By train: 2 hours 25 minutes
• By car: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Join a cheese and chocolate tour to sample the local delicacies
• Visit the HR Giger Museum
• Explore Gruyères Castle

Full of character, Gruyères is a charming mediaeval town located in the Swiss Alps and popular day trip from Zurich.

It’s no secret that the town is a foodie’s paradise (which is probably why I love it so much!) – cheese and chocolate are most definitely on the menu! 

That’s not all the town has to offer: the old town of Gruyères is quaint, but packed with immense history.

Explore the Gruyères Castle, Saint-Théodule Church, and the Tibet Museum for your hit of history and culture. 

Insider travel tip: Alien fans, Gruyères is a must-visit day trip from Zurich. Discover the HR Giger Museum, where you can find a selection of the artist’s paintings and sculptures, all in his signature surrealist style.

Day trips from Zurich: cultural excursions

Zurich is not only a financial hub but also a cultural one with the city being home to several museums, galleries, and architectural wonders. But there’s more to Swiss culture than Zurich. 

The regions surrounding Zurich are rich in history, art, and architecture, making excellent destinations for cultural excursions.

Here are a few of my favourite cultural day trips from Zurich:

Best for: Preserved old town

• By train: 21 minutes
• By car: 40 minutes
• See the Zytturm clock tower
• Wander the old town
• Visit the Kunsthaus Zug 

A quaint town located on the shores of Lake Zug and a short train ride from Zurich, Zug is known for its well-preserved mediaeval old town.

Here, you’ll find several historic buildings, including: the imposing 14th-century Zytturm clock tower and the St. Oswald Church. 

Zug is also famous for its impressive art collection, including works by revered Swiss artists like Johann Heinrich Füssli and Ferdinand Hodler.

The Kunsthaus Zug proudly houses the most comprehensive collection of Viennese Modernism in Europe outside Austria,

Insider travel tip: I’d recommend taking a cruise along Lake Zug as the perfect way to unwind, away from the bustling city life. 

Best for: Modern art and photography

• By train: 20 minutes
• By car: 35 minutes
• Visit the Fotomuseum Winterthur
• Explore the Swiss Science Center Technorama
• View the old town from the Rosengarten

Winterthur is a lesser known cultural hub of Switzerland, but a true cultural hub nonetheless.

Located just 20 minutes from Zurich by train, the charming town is home to several museums. For example, I love the Fotomuseum Winterthur which showcases photography exhibits.

Other cultural sights that are worth a visit in Winterthur include the Swiss Science Center Technorama, Museum Oskar Reinhart and Kunstmuseum Winterthur, which exhibits modern art from the likes of Picasso and Klee.

Good to know: Take time to visit the Rosengarten, a gorgeous hilltop garden with hundreds of rose varieties and stunning views of the old town.

Best for: Baroque architecture

• By train: 57 minutes
• Explore the Abbey of St. Gall
• Stroll through the old town
• Visit the Kunstmuseum St. Gallen

Famous for its impressive Baroque architecture, St. Gallen is a historic town located in the eastern part of Switzerland.

When visiting St. Gallen, you simply must see the Abbey of St. Gall, a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Here, you can explore the abbey’s library – which houses some of the oldest manuscripts in Europe – or take a guided tour of the historic old town.

St. Gallen is also home to several museums, including the Kunstmuseum St. Gallen, which exhibits a collection of contemporary art.

Insider travel tip: I’d recommend visiting the Textile Museum where you can learn more about the historic local trade in St. Gallen

Day trips from Zurich: outdoor adventures

Zurich is surrounded by beautiful nature and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Here are some of my favourite day trips from Zurich for those who love to explore the outdoors.

Rhine Falls

Best for: The power of nature

• By train: 36 minutes (to nearby Schaffhausen)
• By car: 45 minutes
• Take a boat tour to Rhine falls
• Go on a hike around the falls
• Grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant or café

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: From Zürich: Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls

Located on the border between the cantons of Schaffhausen and Zürich, the epic Rhine Falls is the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Located just 45 minutes from Zurich, I’d recommend this as the perfect day trip for travellers wanting to be immersed in nature. 

Here, you can take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls, or hike around the area for stunning views of the Swiss countryside.

There are also several restaurants and cafés in the area to enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the incredible scenery.

Good to know: If you’d prefer to keep your distance and take in the scenery, there are several viewing platforms built on both sides of the Rhine River. 

Best for: Hiking trails

• By train: 1 hour 51 minutes
• By car: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Get the cable car to Ebenalp
• Explore the prehistoric Wildkirchli caves
• Visit the Museum Appenzell

Top Zurich day trip tour to book: Zürich: Appenzell Day-Trip with Cheese & Chocolate Tastings

Appenzell is a charming town located in the heart of the Appenzell Alps, just over an hour’s drive from Zurich.

The area is known not only for its beautiful hiking trails, but also for its traditional Swiss culture. 

I’d recommend hiking up to the top of Mount Säntis for breathtaking views, getting the cable car to Ebenalp (which is the starting point for several hikes) or explorign the town’s museums and galleries.

Insider travel tip: Appenzell is home to the highest whisky trek in the world – so if you fancy a tipple, this one’s for you! 

Rapperswil-Jona

Best for: Rose gardens

• By train: 37 minutes
• Hire bikes to explore the town
• Take a boat tour on Lake Zurich
• Visit the rose gardens

Rapperswil-Jona is a picturesque town located on the northern shores of Lake Zurich, just 30 minutes from Zurich.

Known for its impressive mediaeval castle and beautiful rose gardens, I think this is a wonderful day trip from Zurich for the whole family. 

In Rapperswil-Jona, you can take a boat tour on the lake for gorgeous mountain views.

The rose gardens of Rapperswil-Jona are another favourite of mine – with the town’s coat of arms even featuring two roses. 

Insider travel tip: Beer connoisseurs, I’d recommend taking a trip to the craft beer brewery, Bier Factory. It’s one of the oldest craft beer breweries in Switzerland. 

Do you have any questions or recommendations for the best day trips from Zurich? Let me know in the comments or drop me a message on social media !

For more inspiration, discover more tours from Zurich . Or read my guides to the best things to do in Zurich and the top luxury hotels in Zurich .

Planning a trip to Switzerland? You may also like:

• 15 best spa resorts in Switzerland
• 12 most scenic train rides in Switzerland 
• 21 beautiful fairytale towns in Switzerland

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 15 Best Day Trips from Zurich

15 Best Day Trips from Zurich

Best known at the epicentre of the world’s banking and financing industry Zurich is a versatile and vibrant city to visit.

A truly buzzing metropolitan, big things happen in Zurich but away from the corporate hustle and bustle there is a lot to explore in the world’s financial capital.

No trip to Zurich would be complete without a paddle on Lake Zurich, a browse around Grossmünster and Fraumünster and a saunter through modern, trendy Kreis 5. Then it’s time to escape the city limits and explore wider Switzerland.

From mountains, to villages from waterfalls to cathedrals there is so much to enjoy.

Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Zurich:

1. Mount Titlis

Mount Titlis is one of the most popular ski fields in Switzerland, in the Uri Alps.

Whether you’re a snow sports enthusiast or not, Mount Titlis makes for a wonderful day trip from Zurich.

The TITLIS Rotair is the world’s first revolving cable car and offers spectacular panoramic views of the mountain landscape.

It is possible to try tobogganing, cross country skiing and mountain biking at Mount Titlis.

A fun and active day out for all the family, Mount Titlis is one of Switzerland’s best kept secrets.

2. Jungfraujoch

Also known as the Top of Europe, Jungfraujoch is a mountainous saddle that connects Jungfrau and Mönch in the Bernese Alps.

During a day trip to Jungfraujoch you can visit the Sphinx Observation Terrace and Plateau and take a moment or two to take in the incredible views of the vast Aletsch Glacier.

From Jungfraujoch you can look out from the cogwheel train and be able to observe three peaks of the Bernese Alps, Jungfrau and Mönch, as you would expect, but Eiger too.

Jungfraujoch is an unforgettable day trip from Zurich that should be high on the bucket list of any budding adventurer.

3. Grindelwald

The village of Grindelwald lies at the foothills of the Bernese Alps and is considered to be the gateway to the Jungfrau region.

This popular little ski town can be found 138 km from Zurich city centre.

Popular day trip activities in Grindelwald include zip-lining at First, sledding at Faulhorn and hiking at Bachalpsee.

The village is surrounded by rolling green pastures crisscrossed with footpaths, countless waterfalls and beautiful trickling streams.

If you want to experience authentic Swiss countryside then a trip to Grindelwald is just the ticket.

4. Interlaken

Interlake is a picturesque lakeside resort town that lies in the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland.

As its name would suggest Interlaken has lakes to the east and to the west of its township.

Interlaken is sandwiched between the glistening, azure Lake Thun and the deeper, Saffire Lake Brienz which even has its own waterfall.

Known for its great shopping arcades Interlaken has something for everyone.

The old timber houses that straddle the Aare River are quintessential Swiss and very photogenic.

Interlaken is the starting point for a number of fabulous day hikes that suit every fitness level.

The city of Lucerne is best known for its medieval architecture and snow-capped mountain backdrop.

Lake Lucerne is the main draw for many travellers and is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

It is possible to jump aboard a paddle steamer and explore the city from the water.

The most iconic landmark in Lucerne has to be Kapellbrücke, the long, winding bridge that is lined on both sides with art.

Lucerne is an incredibly picturesque city and one could easy spend a day sauntering from one street to another capturing every last enchanting element of this city.

Those interested in art should incorporate a visit to the Museum Sammlung Rosengart during their day trip.

6. Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is a mountain steeped in folklore and superstition, from being home to giants and dragons, there is a wealth of mystery to explore.

The best way to enjoy Mount Pilatus is to jump aboard the cogwheel train at Kriens and be whisked up to Krienseregg.

On this aerial gondola ride you will be greeted with breathtaking views of the mountain landscape that surrounds you.

After a brief stop at Krienseregg you can jump back aboard the gondola to be transported a step closer up to the peak of Mount Pilatus to Fräkmüntegg.

The final gondola ride sees you scale the Dragon’s Ride all the way to the Pilatus peak, 2,132 m above sea level.

The views from the top are worth every penny.

Make sure to have charged your camera.

7. Engelberg

Engelberg is home to one of the most impressive monasteries in all of Europe.

The Engelberg Baroque monastery was constructed by Benedictine monks in 1120. To this day the monastery is home to over 3 devoted monks.

Engelberg is a quaint, sleepy village known for its homemade cheeses.

The village itself is very photogenic and there are lots of locally run handicraft shops to peruse.

The Engelberg Ironworks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that may be of interest for many.

It is possible to couple a visit to Engelberg with a flying visit to Lucerne if you are short on time.

Rigi is a mountain massif that lies nestled away in the Alps of central Switzerland.

Almost wholly encompassed by lakes, Rigi is a geographical wonder.

Surrounded by Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug and Lake Lauerz, the peak of Rigi offers wonderful views of the water filled land below.

Standing at a proud 1,798 m above sea level it is possible to reach the Rigi peak by hiking but the most popular option is to take a relaxing ride to the top on the mountain railway.

Rigi is affectionately known as the Queen of the Mountains and is one of Switzerland’s best kept secrets.

9. Appenzell

The small village of Appenzell is a picture postcard of a Swiss village that is a real treat to visit.

Featuring classic Swiss mountain homes, rolling pastures and the Alpstein mountains in the distance Appenzell is what many would describe as perfection.

Naturally, hiking is the most popular activity in Appenzell and popular hills to hike include Hoher Kasten, Saxer Lüke and the Marwees.

Some would argue that these are not hills at all but mountains; these are hikes for true hiking enthusiasts.

For those who want to avoid the steep slopes then the Museum Appenzell is a wonderful place to visit and exhibits artefacts from this small town’s rich and varied history.

10. Kleine Scheidegg

Kleine Scheidegg is a mountain pass that sits between the peaks of Eiger and Lauberhorn in Bernese Oberland.

This is another of day trip from Zurich that involves Switzerland’s amazing cogwheel trains.

Once at the peak of the Kleine Scheidegg you can choose to relax and take in the view or get exploring.

From here you can make a start on the Jungfrau Eiger Walk which offers breathtaking views of the Eiger glacier.

If you don’t fancy a hike then you can get settled in one of the many restaurants that sit atop the mountain and spend a day reading, sipping coffee and taking in the awesome view.

Sitting on a bend of the Rhine River is the thriving city of Basel.

Bordering France and Germany this multicultural city is a treat to explore.

Firmly away from the mountains Basel offers a cultural day trip from Zurich that is not to be missed.

Featuring a medieval old town, Basel has a wealth of history to take in.

The Marktplatz is a great starting point where the main focus is the red sandstone Town Hall.

From here make your way to the Basel Minister, the city’s impressive Gothic cathedral that features not one but two towering spires.

The Beyeler Foundation is home to a wonderful collection of modern and contemporary art which provides an additional layer of culture to an exciting day trip to Basel.

12. Fribourg

Fribourg is a charming and enchanting city in Switzerland that lies 156 km from Zurich.

Fribourg is one of the best preserved medieval towns in all of Switzerland.

If you’re seeking a relaxed day trip from Zurich then Fribourg is a great starting point.

Lying on the River Sarine, Fribourg is home to countless cafes and boutiques that are just waiting to be explored.

The Cathedral of St Nicholas is the highlight of the day; the stained-glass windows are an example of master craftsmanship.

There are dozens of art galleries to explore including Musée d’art et d’histoire, Espace Jean Tinguely and Musee Gutenberg.

13. Gruyere

Best known for its cheese, Gruyere has a wealth of culture to explore.

Gruyeres Castle is easily the highlight of the day.

This 13th-Century chateaux sits atop the hill and is fortified, even to this day.

No trip to Gruyere would be complete without a visit to la Maison du Gruyere, the home of the famous cheese.

A visit to the factory not only gives you the opportunity to stock up from the source but also to learn about the production process and how Gruyere gets its distinctive taste.

Chocolate lovers should substitute la Maison du Gruyere for a visit to La Maison Cailler, the oldest chocolate factory in Switzerland.

14. Mount Stanserhorn

Mount Stanserhorn is home to the world’s first CabriO cable car.

Visitors can experience Mount Stanserhorn is so many ways.

You can wind through the meadows on the vintage funicular or scoot straight to the stop via the CabriO cable car.

At the top of Mount Stanserhorn is the marmot park home to, you’ve guessed it, dozens of super cute marmots.

Many travellers opt to have lunch at the rotating Rondorama restaurant.

A total novelty but lots of fun, they serve great food too.

If you are short on time you can couple a visit to the peaks of Mount Stanserhorn with a tour of Lucerne and Lake Lucerne too.

15. St Gallen

St Gallen sits south of Lake Constance in the north east of Switzerland.

Home to the Abbey of St Gall there is an abundance of cultural significant to explore in St Gallen.

The Abbey’s library has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it survived a fire that broke out in 937 that destroyed the rest of the Abbey complex.

A visit to the Abbey library is the highlight of any day trip to St Gallen.

The Old Town is totally pedestrianised meaning you can wander and window shop to your heart’s content.

St Gallen is very close to Appenzell and as such the two can be visited in the space of one day should you be pressed for time.

15 Best Day Trips from Zurich:

• Mount Titlis
• Jungfraujoch
• Grindelwald
• Mount Pilatus
• Kleine Scheidegg
• Mount Stanserhorn

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10 Best Day Trips from Zurich, Switzerland

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Whether you’re living in Zurich or just visiting for a few days, you should definitely take advantage of its great location to explore more of Switzerland and the neighboring countries.

But there are so many beautiful places in and around Switzerland that it can be hard to know where to start.

So here are 10 great day trips from Zurich for visitors and locals alike, based on my own experience of more than four years living and traveling in Heidi’s country .

Table of Contents

Day trips from Zurich:

#1 schaffhausen and the rhine falls.

Less than one hour from Zurich, Schaffhausen is a picturesque medieval town on the northeast corner of Switzerland, and one of the most beautiful Swiss old towns I’ve ever visited.

From Schaffhausen, you can also easily reach the impressive Rhine Falls, the largest waterfalls in Europe.

You can book a tour from Zurich to the Rhine Falls here.

• Schaffhausen and the Rhine Falls

Bern is the de facto capital of Switzerland, as the seat of the federal government and parliament.

Its gorgeous and unique old town is a feast for the eyes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located less than one hour away, it makes for the perfect day trip from Zurich.

Book your day trip to Bern here.

• Things to do in Bern

Basel is one of my favorite cities in all Switzerland and a highly recommended day trip from Zurich.

Located on the shores of the Rhine River, on the borders with France and Germany, Basel is a young and cosmopolitan city, due to its renowned university (the oldest in Switzerland), its pharmaceutical industry, and its vibrant art scene.

You can get from Zurich to Basel in about 50 minutes with the TGV.

• Things to do in Basel

#4 Gruyères

If you’re looking to try the best cheese fondue in Switzerland, look no further.

Considered the most beautiful village in French-speaking Switzerland, and home to the world-famous cheese with the same name, Gruyères is a delight to the senses.

Alien fanatic? There’s a museum (and a bar!) for you too here.

Lovely and delicious, Gruyères is totally worth the 2-hour drive from Zurich.

• Things to do in Gruyeres

#5 St Gallen

I visited St Gallen on a rainy day, but that didn’t prevent me from falling in love with this charming Swiss city near Lake Constance.

Just one hour from Zurich by car or train, St Gallen hides one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a wide range of art museums.

All good reason to take a day trip from Zurich to St Gallen regardless of the weather.

#6 Constance, Germany

A short 45-minute drive from Zurich, the city of Constance, in southern Germany, is a favorite shopping destination for many Zurich inhabitants, attracted by its malls and cheaper prices.

For any Zurich visitor, it’s also a great opportunity to set foot in neighboring Germany.

Constance has a lovely and well-preserved medieval district. But its top sight is scenic Lake Constance (or Bodensee), the largest lake on German territory.

Lake Constance is actually shared by Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Take a boat ride through the three countries and visit the towns around the lake, as well as its islands.

#7 Colmar, France

The small French town of Colmar was on my travel bucket list for so long, and in 2019 I finally got to visit it.

I absolutely loved everything about it!

If you’ve ever seen a picture of Colmar, you know what I’m talking about: a lovely old town, with cobblestone streets, colorful facades and romantic canals, located less than two hours from Zurich.

Colmar is also famous for its Christmas market, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

• The Best 10 Things to Do in Colmar, France in Winter

#8 Freiburg, Germany

Best known for its university and as the entry point to the Black Forrest, Freiburg, in southwest Germany, makes for another great day trip from Zurich.

Considered the warmest and sunniest place in Germany, the city has an undeniable French flair and a charm of its own.

A 2-hour drive from Zurich, Freiburg is closer to France and Switzerland than to any other larger German city.

#9 Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is one of the smallest and least visited European countries.

This tiny country, tucked between Switzerland and Austria, has always exercised a fascination over me.

So, this year, I finally made the one hour and a half train and bus trip from Zurich to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein.

And I was not disappointed.

From beautiful nature and a picturesque old town to a busy modern center, Vaduz has all the qualities of a European metropolis in a small, exquisite package.

• Check out my day trip from Zurich to Vaduz here

#10 Lucerne

Considered by many as one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, Lucerne is a mandatory day trip from Zurich.

Located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, overlooking the Swiss Alps, less than one hour from Zurich, Lucerne is also one of the most touristic swiss cities, and it’s easy to understand why.

The 14 th century Chapel Bridge over the Reuss River is its most famous landmark.

The city is also the gateway to the nearby Rigi, Pilatus, and Stanserhorn mountains.

You can book a day trip from Zurich to Lucerne and Mount Pilatus here.

• Lucerne Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Lucerne in One Day

Of course, there are many other possible day trips from Zurich, especially if you’re a mountain lover. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it’s certainly a good starting point for exploring Switzerland and its bordering countries.

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About Vanda

I'm a Portuguese journalist and certified yoga teacher born in the Azores but Lisboner at heart. After 10 years as an expat in Switzerland, I now travel the world full-time as a digital nomad, with 27 countries and 5 continents under my belt and counting. I share wellness and yoga-friendly travel advice based on my own experience and knowledge.

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Mirela says

April 14, 2018 at 7:02 pm

Well, so many possibilities, Zurich seems such a great base to explore the region, also thanks to the very good transport system. I cruised on Constance lake, but from Bregenz, Vorarlberg, Austria, will be nice to arrive from Zurich as well. Colmar is on my list forever seems like!

Amy Dodd says

April 14, 2018 at 7:00 pm

Beautiful photos. I love places that are easy to do day trips from – makes it easy to see a lot without moving all the stuff around. I will be adding this to my list of places to base out of!

April 14, 2018 at 6:43 pm

These are some great ideas! Freiburg is one of my favorite cities in the world and Basel totally surprised me it was so awesome. Can’t wait to explore some of these others!

Hayley says

April 14, 2018 at 6:23 pm

I was in Zurich a few weeks back. We did the day tour to Liechtenstein and Heidiland. It was amazing. Day trips allow you to see so much more 😊

Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad says

April 14, 2018 at 4:02 pm

Beautiful photos!! And fab ideas too, every time I see a photo of Colmar I just want to get in my car and keep driving until I get there! Liechtenstein really intrigues me, too. I feel like Zurich is probably expensive to stay but it would be fun to travel around to all these places in a trip!

Jackie S. says

April 14, 2018 at 3:24 pm

Colmar is the cutest town ever!! Who knew there are so many places to visit on a day trip from Zurich?! Thanks for sharing!

Brianna says

April 14, 2018 at 3:21 pm

I’m going to Zurich for the first time next month! Unfortunately I won’t have time to include any of these great day trips, but I guess that’s good enough reason to go back some day! I especially want to see Lucern and Basel!

April 14, 2018 at 2:33 pm

Who knew there was so much to see around Zurich? I haven’t been yet and was just planning a weekend break, but the places you’ve put on this list make me think I’ll want to stay a whole lot longer than that! I’m a massive fan of cheese fondue, so I’ll have to go to Gruyeres, and my husband has been to Lucerne for work but we’d love to go back to explore one day! How would you get to these places? By train I guess?

April 14, 2018 at 3:13 pm

Yes, by train or car. Public transportation is great in Switzerland but it can be a little expensive, so sometimes it’s actually better to rent a car.

December 2, 2017 at 2:52 am

What fantastic ideas! I really liked the look of Gruyere, that cheese photo made my mouth water!

Michelle says

December 2, 2017 at 2:45 am

How fun! I would love to visit Switzerland one day! And oh man, that cheese fondue! YUM!

Danielle says

December 2, 2017 at 2:37 am

What great trips! Um.. that cheese fondu though.. that may be worth the trip on its own! It looks so good!

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7 Best Day Trips from Zurich

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on May 17, 2024

Switzerland’s largest city might be best known as a global financial center, but Zurich’s picturesque setting and cultural treasures have helped to establish the city as a vacation destination too. Striding the Limmat River, Zurich’s postcard-perfect backdrop is an expansive crystal-clear lake rimmed by snow-capped mountains.

Clean, organized and easy to explore, Zurich has a lot to offer visitors, and with its superior public transportation system, the city makes a great base for excursions into the surrounding region as well. From towering mountain peaks to storybook Swiss villages, here are some of the most rewarding day trips from Zurich.

7. Mount Rigi

Located in the Swiss Plateau mountain range and surrounded by three lakes, Mount Rigi has been a popular stop on the European grand tour since the 1800s. Offering some of the most beautiful views in all of Switzerland, the peak is rightly nicknamed the Queen of the Mountains. Traveling by cog railway, visitors can zip to the summit in less than 45 minutes from the villages of Vitznau and Arth-Goldau. Cable car transportation is available near the community of Weggis that takes visitors close to the summit as well. The views from each approach offer unique vistas of the lakes below.

Getting to Mount Rigi

• By public transport from Zurich Main Station, it can take as little as an hour and a half to find yourself atop of Mount Rigi, gazing out at the breathtaking views before you. Trains run regularly to Arth-Goldau, and from here, you take a 40-minute cogwheel train to the top, where you’ll find lots of lovely hiking trails.
• If you’re a bit pressed for time and want to see as much of Switzerland as possible in just one day, another option is to take a guided tour that not only takes you to the summit of Mount Rigi but also around the center of nearby Lucerne. With a delightful cruise on Lake Lucerne and a lovely cable car and cogwheel train ride up the mountain included, it is a great day out. See prices

6. Rhine Falls

Easily reached by bus, rail or boat from Zurich, the Rheinfall is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in Europe. It’s the broad width of the falls and the heavy spray of water that it generates that most attract visitors.

Located between the communities of Neuhausen am Rheinfall and Laufen-Uhwiesen, the Rhine Falls can be experienced from several viewing platforms on both sides of the river. Boat rides offer adventurous spectators up-close views at the falls and the Rheinfallfelsen, a mammoth rock that splits the falls in the center. The Laufen Castle, which has been converted into a restaurant, also offers a charming vista of the falls.

Getting to Rhine Falls

• Lying just to the north of Zurich, the spectacular Rhine Falls are easily reached by public transport from the city, and the journey usually takes around an hour. Just hop on a train at Zurich Main Station and alight at Neuhausen Rheinfall, from where you can simply walk to the falls or take a boat ride below them.
• If you really want to make the most of your time in this wonderful part of the country, you may want to consider a guided tour. These not only take you to visit the falls but also to see the medieval Laufen Castle, the 16th-century Munot Fortress, and past the beautiful vineyards and quaint villages that characterize this part of Switzerland. See prices

5. Mount Pilatus

Comprised of several summits, Mount Pilatus is situated between Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug and Lake Lauerz in central Switzerland. Thanks to several cogwheel railways, cable cars and gondolas, ascending to the mountain’s peak is an excursion that every visitor can undertake and enjoy.

Departing from the town of Alpnachstad, the world’s steepest cog rail offers the fastest and most direct route. A series of cable cars and gondolas operate out of the Lucerne suburb of Kriens. Hardy travelers can hike to the top in around four hours. A surprisingly flat trail at the summit is perfect for taking in the spectacular views.

Getting to Mount Pilatus

• To get to Mount Pilatus from Zurich, you first want to take a 50-minute train ride to Lucerne, then hop on a bus to the nearby Kriens, which is the gateway to Mount Pilatus. It is then a short walk to the valley, where you’ll find a series of gondolas and cable cars to whisk you up to the summit as you enjoy incredible views of the mountains.
• A popular option amongst many people is to take a guided tour to the top of Mount Pilatus. With an expert guide accompanying you, you’ll hike along the beautiful Dragon’s Path, take a cruise on Lake Lucerne, and enjoy incredible views from both the summit of the mountain. See prices

A short drive south of Zurich lands visitors in lovely Lucerne , a place that fits the idea of an idyllic Swiss town to perfection. With its cobblestone streets, 14-century city walls and medieval Old Town quarter, this lost-in-time destination never fails to enchant visitors.

Whether it’s a concert at the city’s performing arts center, Kongress Zentrum, or a folkloric show featuring yodeling, alphorns and cowbells, Lucerne knows how to keep its many visitors engaged and entertained. Surrounded by mountains, the city where William Tell is said to have shot the apple off his son’s head is also a favorite base for excursions to Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus.

Getting to Lucerne

• As regular trains run between Zurich Main Station and Lucerne, it is straightforward to get from one to the other, and the journey only takes 50 minutes.
• A lovely way to visit Lucerne is to take a guided tour that includes a trip to the top of Mount Rigi. With a scenic paddle-boat ride on the lake and a cable car ride up the mountain included as part of the package. In addition to this, free time in Lucerne’s lovely Old Town gives you the opportunity to explore the city at your leisure. See prices

3. Jungfraujoch

The Jungfraujoch is a col in the Bernese Alps accessible by railway, ending at Europe’s highest mountain station. Highlights include views of spectacular mountain summits like the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau, and views of the large Eiger Glacier that nestles below them.

The Sphinx observatory, one of the highest astronomical sighting stations in the world, is located here as well. Views are endless and pristine, though amenities are small with just a handful of restaurants. It’s a very long train ride from Zurich, taking about 4.5 hours, but the experience is unforgettable.

Getting to Jungfraujoch

• As it takes around four to four and a half hours and a number of different trains to get to Jungfraujoch, you might want to opt for a guided tour, as a scenic bus journey cuts out the first stretch of the trip and takes you directly to Lauterbrunnen. With a trip to the Sphinx Observatory included, it is a great, stress-free day out that avoids all the hassle of getting there by public transport. See prices

2. Liechtenstein

The tiny country of Liechtenstein is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. Ruled by a constitutional monarchy, land-locked Liechtenstein is the sixth-smallest country in Europe, but it’s big on natural attractions.

Those on a day trip from Zurich are likely to be more impressed by the beauty of the surrounding countryside than by the capital city Vaduz, although the boldly designed contemporary art museum is well worth a visit. The royal family’s castle in Vaduz is off limits to visitors most of the year, but the pretty hilltop Gutenberg Castle in the village of Balzers is open for exploration.

Getting to Liechtenstein

• To get to Liechtenstein’s capital of Vaduz by public transport is relatively simple, and generally takes around an hour and 40 minutes. Just hop on a train from Zurich Main Station and alight at Sargans, which lies on the border with Liechtenstein. From here, take the number eleven bus to Vaduz – or indeed, any other little town that takes your fancy, as the bus runs the whole length of the country.
• Another option for visiting Liechtenstein is to join a guided tour, that not only takes you to the Principality’s charming capital, but also Heidiland in Switzerland. With a knowledgeable guide on hand, you’ll learn all there is to know about Vaduz. The nature and scenery at Heidiland is astounding. As this tour also includes a sightseeing trip around Zurich, it offers the perfect combination of history, culture, and nature, with something for everyone to enjoy. See prices

1. Mount Titlis

A one-and-a-half hour drive south from Zurich brings sightseers to the small resort town of Engelberg, the ideal departure point for any visitor who wants to enjoy views of central Switzerland from the highest vantage point. Standing 10,623 feet (3,238 meters) above sea level, the summit is always covered in snow.

It takes a series of rides on three cable cars and a funicular to reach the top where passengers are rewarded with unparalleled views. There’s also a four-story complex at the summit that includes restaurants, shops and an ice-grotto bar. A glacier trail at the peak leads visitors into an illuminated ice cave.

Getting to Mount Titlis

• From Zurich Main Station, you first need to take a train to Lucerne, where you then change platforms and take another train to Engelberg. From here, your ascent really begins. You then need to take a series of cable cars up the mountain to the top of Mount Titlis. All in all, the whole journey from Zurich to the summit should take two and a half to three hours.
• If small mountain roads aren’t your thing, you may find it simpler to take a guided tour to Mount Titlis. As well as taking you up the mountain to bask in the stupendous views, the tour also takes you skiing, for a walk over Europe’s highest suspension bridge, and to Lucerne, where you get to explore the city’s fantastic Old Town. See prices

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November 25, 2016 at 9:46 pm

will there be snow falling in either geneva or zurich from july to august of 2017? tnx.

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Weekend Getaways near Zürich

Top Zurich Day Trips

Day trips from zurich.

• Zurich to Lucerne
• Zurich to Engelberg
• Zurich to Interlaken
• Zurich to Grindelwald
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Zurich Highlights Tour With Cruise and Lindt Home of Chocolate

2. Jungfraujoch Day Trip from Zurich: Swiss Alps & Bernese Oberland

3. Zurich Walking Tour With Cruise and Aerial Cable Car

4. Swiss Villages Grindelwald and Interlaken Day Trip from Zurich

5. Mt Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise

6. Mount Titlis and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich

7. Swiss Alps: Interlaken and Grindelwald Day Trip from Zurich

8. Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein Half-Day Tour from Zurich

9. Private Daytrip to Interlaken, Grindelwald & Lauterbrunnen by Car

10. Heidiland and Liechtenstein Tour from Zurich

11. Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich

12. Lucerne Day Tour from Zurich

13. Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen & Mürren Private Day Trip from Zurich

14. Black Forest and Rhine Falls Day Trip from Zurich

15. Daytrip to Jungfraujoch Top of Europe with EigerExpress Gondola Ride from Zürich

16. 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg

17. From Zurich: Rhine Falls, Chocolate and cheese factory

18. Swiss Cheese, Chocolates and Mountains Small-Group Tour from Zurich

19. Private Daytrip by Car to Liechtenstein, Germany, Austria & Swiss

20. Mt Rigi and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Boat Ride

21. From Zurich: The most beautiful insider spots in Switzerland (private 1-day tour)

22. Private Trip from Zurich to Vaduz in Liechtenstein & Swiss Heidiland

23. Mt Titlis Glacier Paradise Tour from Zurich With Lucerne

24. Engelberg, Cheese, and Mt. Titlis Small Group From Zurich

25. Day Trip to postcard town Lucerne and Legendary Bürgenstock Resort from Zurich

26. Day trip to Swiss Villages from Zurich - Small Group Tour by Car

27. Adventure to Mount Pilatus Gold and Silver tour

28. 007 Elegance: Exclusive Private Tour to Schilthorn from Zürich

29. Jungfraujoch (Private Tour)

30. Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich Including Lake Lucerne Cruise

What travellers are saying.

Guided Day Trips from Zurich to the Alps

Anyone who visits Switzerland should not miss an excursion into the Swiss mountains. A day trip to the Jungfraujoch or Mount Titlis – surrounded by perpetual snow and ice at over 3,000 meters (9,840 ft) above sea level – is a truly breathtaking experience. On Mount Rigi, Mount Stanserhorn, and Mount Pilatus, too, on clear days visitors can delight in the magnificent panoramic views extending far beyond Central Switzerland and the Bernese Oberland.

The guided day trips depart from Zurich. From here, the tour bus heads towards the mountains, after which a mountain cableway or a cogwheel train will transport you in comfort up to the Alpine peaks. The full-day excursions for both individuals and private groups can be booked at the Tourist Information or online.

Lucerne Region

Lucerne & Mt. Titlis

An unforgettable excursion to Lucerne and into the magnificent glacier world of Mt. Titlis.

Mt. Titlis & Lucerne

This unforgettable excursion takes you to Mt. Titlis, with its impressive glacier paradise.

From Zurich to Mt. Rigi

A visit to Mt. Rigi, a popular excursion destination among the Swiss.

Mt. Pilatus 9.30 am

On this day trip, guests can explore the Swiss Alpine world on and around Mt. Pilatus.

Engelberg & Lucerne 9.30 am

Trip to two popular summer and winter spa resorts in the heart of Central Switzerland.

Lucerne & Bürgenstock

This excursion combines visits to Lucerne and the Bürgenstock mountain

Lucerne & Mt. Stanserhorn

A day trip to Mt. Stanserhorn with a ride on the cabriolet cable car, and some free time in Lucerne.

Berne Region

Jungfraujoch 8 am

The highlight of any trip to Switzerland is this unforgettable full-day excursion to the Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch 8.30 am

A trip to the world of the Jungfraujoch – the UNESCO World Heritage site in the Swiss Alps.

Skiing in Grindelwald

On this amazing excursion, ski novices can learn how to ski in the winter sports resort of Grindelwald.

Grindelwald & Interlaken

The unforgettable day trip to one of the most stunning Alpine regions in Switzerland.

Other Regions

Chocolate, Cheese, Mountains

A visit to the idyllic Appenzell region, where age-old traditions are still actively lived.

Stoos Summit Experience

From the Fronalpstock high above Stoos, guests can look out over the Swiss Alps and 10 Central Swiss lakes.

Heidiland & Liechtenstein

The highlights of this adventure tour are Switzerland´s diversity and a visit to Heidiland.

Private Guided Excursions

Private guided excursions from Zurich to Swiss highlights such as Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Rigi, and Lucerne.

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Excursions near Zurich

Plan your adventures with this list of best day trips from Zurich.

Group City Tours

These tours are particularly suitable for groups of work colleagues, family or friends.

Active Team Building Events

Climbing, sailing, scavenge hunting: Great tips for action-packed team events.

Special City Tours

On these special city tours, guests discover Zurich in a completely different way.

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Europe Tours & Trips from Zurich

Find your perfect adventure! We have 87 tours of Europe that start in Zurich, Switzerland. The most popular month is June, and tour lengths range between 4 and 29 days.

87 Europe tour packages from Zurich with 1,943 reviews

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Switzerland ( 8 days )

• In-depth Cultural

Swiss and Italian Spotlight

It is excellent service every thing is well.planned and amazing

Switzerland and Austria (2024, 13 Days)

We had a fantastic Tour Guide Dr Qiu Moayad, and Venci our Coach Captain, both brilliant.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Grand Tour of Switzerland

This tour covered Switzerland to perfection. The tour director Marco was amazing and entertaining. He was passionate about his job and it showed in the whole tour running like clockwork. Salvatore did a great job navigating the narrow streets. Could not have asked for two better guides

• River Cruise

Spectacular Switzerland with Romantic Rhine 2024

Country Roads of Switzerland (Classic, 14 Days)

I was very pleased & enjoyed it very much

Switzerland All-in-one trip

Vittalli from All in one Swiss tours was an excellent guide and everything ran smoothly. Tourradar were great with communication and liaising with us and All in one Swiss tours

Switzerland and Italy

I really enjoyed my holiday and I would like to say thank you to Wendy and the rest of the team. Whenever I needed something they were always available. I highly recommend booking your solo trip or family holiday with these guys. Thank you for everything ❤️

Fall/Spring Swiss Alps Drive in a Porsche: Pre-set sat-nav guided

Where to begin?! When I discovered EpikDrives, I knew this would be the perfect surprise trip for my husband. Initially the packages and trip seemed “to good to be true” but Stephan was quick to respond to my 1,000 questions. We didn’t find many reviews which made me nervous but booked regardless and ARE WE GLAD WE DID! This turned out to be one of the best trips we have ever taken. Planning of the trip and booking was seamless. Stephan was so helpful and prompt with responses throughout the entire process from start to finish. Once we arrived in Switzerland, Stephan was waiting at the hotel with our supercar on arrival. We were impressed with the ease of everything! We would get into the car each morning and essentially hit “go” on the GPS. Easy GPS guidance to follow along with designated stops for sightseeing, coffee if needed, and re-fueling. We also enjoyed the binder that accompanied with printed out information of the itinerary for each day and description of the different sites or mountain passes. I would certainly give EpikDrives and Stephan a 10+ if I could and we will definitely be taking another trip with them in the near future. Thank you, Stephan, for such an incredible experience!

• Train & Rail

Contrasts of Switzerland (8 Days)

Had an amazing time in Switzerland and met new wonderful friends. Trafalgar did a great job. Everything was organized and safety was top priority. Will travel with Trafalgar again.

Switzerland and Italy with Amalfi Coast

The team - Amanda, Wendy, Alberto and Sam have done a great job supporting our 2-week vacation visiting Switzerland and Italy. They are very responsive to our inquiries and always do their best to accommodate last min changes e.g arranged last min transfer from Lugano instead Como when our train schedule got changed by the train company. All the tours arranged for us are of good quality, very friendly and courteous staffs. We enjoyed our trip and had lots of fond memories! Thank you so much!!

The Best of Switzerland

The tour was very well organized. Most people were in the older age range, that was my only concern taking another tour with Globus. Our tour director was the best, so intelligent, knowledgeable, organized and well mannered (Elzo).

Scenic Switzerland by Train

Switzerland is such a beautiful country and we had a wonderful guide. The Swiss train service is fabulous. Prices are high there but we had expected that. A few group meals were weak and I would have liked to have a farewell dinner with the group on the last night. Most group tours have some kind of closure event.

Rhine Highlights with Switzerland (Start Zurich, End Amsterdam)

Impressed by the work done to get us on board at a very late date. The trip itself was the usual wonderful Scenic Cruise. The two tour guides, Franz and Alec were outstanding and all the personnel on The Opal made the trip wonderful. The Hotels in Switzerland were all top notch. Our tours visiting Castles and Towns were as good as we remembered others from earlier tours. Our admiration and respect for Scenic remains very strong.

Rhine Highlights with Switzerland - Rhine Gorge > Koblenz

What people love about europe tours from zurich.

Well organized. Our tour guide’s Joana, Eva and Gabriel were outstanding! They went out of their ways to make sure everyone is happy and satisfied. They were patient and supportive!!!

Flo was an excellent guide - even with the difficulty faced!! She took care of us!! The tour stopped at all the places you want to see!

Fabulous and comprehensive tour. Thank you so much to Brianna (Travel Director) and Maria (Driver) for a brilliant two weeks!

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• Switzerland

36 Best Day Trips from Zurich

• 132 Pinterest

There are many cool places to visit that are within easy reach of Zurich. Whether you are looking for history, nature or delicious food to sample, at least one of these day trips from Zurich will enhance your holiday.

These easy outings are fun alternatives to a day in Zurich. They show off the best that Switzerland has to offer. Check out our compilation of ideas about where to spend a day out of Zurich. Pick your favorite one and have fun.

1 – Lucerne

Nestled between the backdrop of towering mountains and a beautiful lake, Lucerne is known as the pocket-sized version of Switzerland.

Amazing history, a fantastic culture and an impressive mountainous panorama come together to form one of the best day trips from Zurich.

Only an hour from Zurich, Lucerne is ideal if you only have limited time for exploring.

• Lucerne day trips

Hot tip: Check out our selection of fun things to do in Lucerne .

2 – Mount Titlis

Mount Titlis is an ideal outing to beat the summer heat, thanks to its snowy tips.

Over 3,000 meters above sea level, Mount Titlis is Central Switzerland’s highest peak and the only accessible glacier. Board the Rotair revolving cable car and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.

Once you’ve reached the top of the mountain, you will find a cliff walk, glacier cave, and even some fun snow activities.

Mount Titlis is a magnificent day tour from Zurich not to be missed.

• Day tours to Mount Titlis

3 – Jungfraujoch

Travel from Zurich to Jungfraujoch, which is also known as the “Top of Europe”.

Located 3,454 meters above sea level, Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in all of Europe.

Open all year round, a visit to Jungfraujoch is an unforgettable experience in a high-Alpine wonderland of eternal ice and snow.

Make Jungfraujoch one of the highlights of your Swiss holiday.

• Day trips to Jungfraujoch

4 – Rhine Falls

Located next to the town of Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland, the Rhine Falls is one the largest waterfalls in Europe.

Just an hour from Zurich, the Rhine Falls is a must-see for visitors and locals alike.

There are viewing platforms built on both sides of the Rhine to admire the spectacular view of the falls. In addition, a boat tour offers a unique experience that’s not to be missed.

Enjoy blustering water masses at this magnificent water-rich spectacle.

• Day trips to the Rhine Falls

5 – Mount Pilatus

Overlooking the city of Lucerne, Mount Pilatus offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

It is easily accessible all year round, making it an ideal day trip destination for families.

Mount Pilatus is a mountain shrouded in mystery and folklore – according to medieval legends, dragons and ghosts once inhabited the mountain.

• Day trips to Mount Pilatus

6 – Interlaken

Sitting snugly between the sparkling waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz is the fabled resort of Interlaken.

The town is a perfect base for experiencing outdoor activities while enjoying the comforts of a chic lakeside resort.

With a network of trains, boats, and cable cars, use Interlaken as your springboard for day trips from Zurich into the formidable Bernese Alps.

Experience paragliding, enjoy a boat tour on the lakes or hike over breathtaking mountains. Interlaken is the adventurer’s playground of Switzerland.

• Compare day trips to Interlaken

Read more about fun things to do in Interlaken

7 – Mount Rigi

Be like the locals and visit the Swiss people’s favorite mountain destination – the beautiful Mount Rigi.

Also known as the “Queen of the Mountains”, Mount Rigi offers its visitors stunning 360 panorama views and awesome hiking opportunities.

Open 365 days a year, Mount Rigi can be easily reached from Zurich and is an ideal day trip for holidaymakers.

• Mount Rigi day tours

8 – Grindelwald

The famous mountain village of Grindelwald is the oldest resort in the Jungfrau region and one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland.

It’s within easy reach of Zurich and lies in a unique Alpine landscape at the foot of the Eiger north face. Visitors can expect awesome hiking and skiing activities.

• Grindelwald day trips

9 – Stein am Rhein

Stein am Rhein is a charming medieval town located about 60 kilometers from Zurich in the region of Schaffhausen, where Lake Constance spills into the Rhine.

Famous for its well-preserved timbered and painted houses, Stein am Rhein is one of the most picturesque towns to visit in Switzerland.

• Day trips to Sein am Rhein

10 – Liechtenstein

Looking for an unusual place to visit from Zurich?

Liechtenstein may be one of Europe’s tiniest countries, but there are plenty of things to do and see. From ancient castles to world-class museums, and from stunning mountain hikes to awesome cycle trails, Liechtenstein offers a broad range of activities that can be enjoyed all year round.

• Visit Liechtenstein from Zurich

11 – Bern

Lying along a narrow loop of the Aare River, Bern is the administrative capital of Switzerland.

The city is famous for its high quality of life, amazing cultural offerings and great tourist attractions.

Teaming with grand parliament buildings, Bern retains the atmosphere of a lovely provincial town.

Travel to Bern and enjoy its picturesque views, stunning architecture and delicious food.

• Bern day trips from Zurich

12 – Appenzell

Appenzell is a beautiful village situated in Northeastern Switzerland. It’s at the foot of the Alpstein mountains and is a 90-minute drive from Zurich.

With its quaint streets and decoratively painted wooden houses, Appenzell is a must-visit for Switzerland first time visitors.

Explore this enchanting village, learn more about cheese production, taste delicious Lindt chocolate, and enjoy the stunning views. Who could resist such a visit?

• Appenzel day trips

13 – Schaffhausen

Schaffhausen is a popular choice if you’re thinking of day trips from Zurich.

Situated on the upper Rhine River and surrounded by vineyards, Schaffhausen is a beautiful medieval Old Town.

Visit the 16th-century Munot Fortress, take a leisurely stroll around the town and admire the decorated facades.

14 – Winterthur

Located Northeast of Zurich, which is less than a 30-minutes drive, Winterthur is the ideal excursion for the history and art lovers.

Explore the lovely alleys of Winterthur’s old town, visit top-class museums, and enjoy theatre shows and numerous concert events all year long.

Don’t miss the Hegi Castle and the Rosengarten, which is a beautiful hilltop roses garden.

15 – Glarus

Nestled between mountains at the foot of the Glärnisch ridge, Glarus is an easy drive from Zurich.

From hiking to rock climbing, travelers will enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities in this stunning region.

Head to the Klöntalersee lake and experience watersports or fishing during the summer. Try a spot of ice-skating in the winter months.

The scenic splendor and its opportunities for outdoor adventures make Glarus an ideal day trip from Zurich.

16 – Engelberg

Located in the canton of Obwalden, Engelberg is a popular holiday destination easily reached thanks to excellent road and rail connections.

Engelberg attracts skiers during the winter, who are looking for top powder & freeride opportunities. In the summer months, hikers and climbers visit for awe-inspiring mountain views.

• Engelberg day trips from Zurich

17 – Basel

Basel is Switzerland’s third-largest town and has a strong sense of its own identity, despite being in such close proximity to France and Germany.

Experience art and culture in abundance with attractions like the yearly Fasnacht festival. Stop off at the many local food markets, and visit the 40-plus museums with their long-established collections.

18 – Fribourg

The medieval city of Fribourg sits above the Sarine River and features a gothic cathedral with art nouveau stained glass and views of the town.

It’s a must-see for culture vultures on one of their day trips from Zurich.

There is a range of museums: visit the Museum of Art and History, the Natural History Museum, and Espace Jean Tinguely – Niki de Saint Phalle.

A train from Zurich to Fribourg takes around 1 hr 30 mins.

19 – Gruyeres

With over 800 years of history, Gruyeres is one of the best day trips from Zurich that is perfect for history buffs.

The architecture has retained its original character, which makes for particularly scenic sights. Gruyeres is the cheese capital of Switzerland, meaning it’s a must-see for cheese conisiours.

Other attractions include the 13th century Gruyeres Castle and the Tibet Museum.

20 – Mount Stanserhorn

Hikers will delight at Mount Stanserhorn, which peaks at 1,898 meters above sea level. Located near Lucerne, it offers sweeping views over Central Switzerland.

There’s even a restaurant on the mountain, which is accessed via an open-air cable car. Enjoy culinary delights while admiring the fantastic sights on offer.

21 – St. Gallen

The city of St. Gallen is south of Lake Constance, in northeastern Switzerland. This compact metropolis offers a traffic-free old town, which is ideal for scenic strolls.

St. Gallen is home to the Abbey of St. Gall, a monastery that is well known for its various architectural styles. Other fun attractions include wildlife park Peter and Paul with its deer, boar & lynx.

22 – Atzmännig

Not far from Zurich is where you will find the sports and leisure area of Atzmannig. Perfect for short and long hikes, the area is popular with family explorers thanks to its leisure parks.

The summer serves up scenic views of Churfirsten, Säntis, Glarner and Schwyzer Alps, while the winter offers 8 km of pistes for snowboarders of all levels.

23 – Chur

The oldest town in Switzerland, Chur is the capital of Graubünden and is known as the gateway to the alpine passes.

It acts as the perfect starting point for some of Switzerland’s best spa resorts and excursions.

Trains take around 1 hr 30 mins from Zurich to Chur over the distance of 128km.

Local markets, shopping amenities and restaurants add a modern touch to the oldest city in Switzerland.

24 – Arth Goldau and Einsiedeln

Arth Goldau and Einsiedeln are in the canton of Schwyz in Switzerland, 48.5km from Zurich. Einsiedeln features the Einsiedeln Abbey, which was first established in 934.

Expect to find many scenic moors, lakes and the largest reservoir in Switzerland in terms of area.

Tour the village of Einsiedeln and visit the dairy plant, gingerbread museum, and the many fine-dining restaurants.

25 – Zug

Voted as one of the best places to live in Switzerland, Zug should certainly be on your list for day trips from Zurich.

Everything in Zug is within walking distance, including the picturesque lakes and quaint buildings. Zug offers a small-town community with international flair.

It’s just 34 km from Zurich, making it easy to access the town.

26 – Alpstein

If you desire picturesque trails and outstanding natural beauty, a jaunt through Alpstein should be at the top of your list. It’s an 84 km trail with sweeping alpine panoramas.

Experience the world-famous Wildkirchli caves and stop off at one of the 27 mountain inns. Each one features its own regional specialties and dishes catered for hikers.

27 – Lake Constance

Lake Constance is a 63 km-long lake that borders Switzerland, Austria and Germany. Fed by the River Rhine River, it’s made up of 2 connected parts: the Untersee (lower lake) and the larger Obersee (upper lake).

Visitors will enjoy striking scenery in the form of light blue expanses of water and 270 km of shoreline. Lake Constance is particularly popular for watersports activities.

Don’t miss visiting the city of Constance, located at the western end of Lake Constance in South Germany. Check out Imperia, a 9-meter tall sculpture that commemorates the Council of Constance. Other attractions include Constance Cathedral and Jan Hus Museum, which stands at the end of Old Town Square.

28 – Solothurn

Regarded as one of the finest Baroque towns in Switzerland, Solothurn combines the best of Italian, Swiss and German cultures.

Immerse yourself in the culture at the History Museum and the Museum of Stones. Just outside the town is where you will find Verena, a romantic gorge with a chapel and hermitage.

Hikers and cyclists will delight at extensive footpaths by the gorge, which covers 600 km of cycle tracks.

29 – Aarau

Located in Swiss Mittelland, Aarau is the capital of the Canton of Aargau. It’s known for its “Dachhimmel”, which are many painted eaves that date back to the 16th century.

Attractions come in many forms, including cultural and adventurous.

The Aargau Art Museum features an extension designed by the famous architects Herzog & de Meuron, while nearby Roggenhausen Wildlife Park is home to wild animals in their natural habitat and a scenic Nature Trail.

30 – The Castles of Aargau

Get medieval with a day trip to the Castles of Aargau and enjoy a slice of Switzerland’s history. Hallwyl Castle includes a moat and is viewed as one of the most romantic castles in the country.

Muri Abbey features soaring spires and turreted roofs, set to the backdrop of snowy Alps. Wildegg Castle towers above majestic landscapes that include vineyards and forests.

Lastly, don’t miss the Fort Aarburg, a must visit attraction in Switzerland.

31 – Colmar

Explore the colorful, pretty town of Colmar, which is located in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, near the border with Germany.

Visit Little Venice (not to be confused with the Italian iteration) with its quaint canals, then stop at gothic Saint Martin’s – which was built between 1235 and 1365.

Colmar is 150 km from Zurich.

32 – Rapperswil-Jona

Located on the upper end of Lake Zurich, Rapperswil-Jona features three rose gardens and is booming with colors. The local castle is a centerpiece of the town and affords panoramic views from the Glarus Alps to Zurich Oberland.

The medieval old town is a protected historic monument and the perfect spot to explore thanks to there being hardly any traffic. Make sure you visit the Lake promenade and the longest wooden bridge in Switzerland.

33 – Alpamare

Day trips from Zurich tend to encompass plenty of culture and scenic sights. But every now and then it’s good to let loose with lively attractions. Alpamare is a popular waterpark complex 36 km from Zurich.

There is plenty of pools where you can take a dip, such as the Wave Pool, Apla Therme, and Rio Mare. Each one offers a different experience, from wave machines to water jets and underwater music.

34 – Weggis

Weggis is a small, idyllic holiday resort 435 meters off the shore of Lake Lucerne. Take time to relax and enjoy the local surroundings that include great views of the mountains and lakes.

Try one of the thermal baths at Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad or take the Hammetschwand Elevator, which is the highest exterior lift in Europe.

35 – Zermatt

The car-free village of Zermatt is on the upper Valais and is a mountain resort known for its skiing, climbing and hiking. The town lies below the Matterhorn peak, which is iconic thanks to its pyramid shape.

Zermatt’s main street is Bahnhofstrasse, where you can indulge in a spot of retail therapy at the boutique shops.

Finish your day trip with a meal at one of the many local restaurants.

36 – Kleine Scheidegg

Kleine Scheidegg means “minor watershed” and is a mountain pass at an elevation of 2,061 meters. It’s located in the Jungfrau Region, and is popular for summer hikes and winter toboggan runs.

The railway station is your starting point. From here, you can experience the panoramic views of the surrounding areas – including glaciers and famous peaks.

• Kleine Scheidegg day trips

We hope you enjoyed our selection of day trips from Zurich. Don’t hesitate to comment below if you need any recommendations. Enjoy Switzerland 🙂

• Compare all day tours from Zurich

3 unmissable day trips from Zurich, Switzerland

What’s the first thing you think of when you hear “Switzerland”? For me it would probably be chocolate, watches, money, neutrality, mountains, money, the Sound of Music, aaaaand money! The number one warning people give you when you tell them you’re going to Switzerland is it’s expensive . And nowhere is that truer than in Zurich!

But besides being expensive, Switzerland is absolutely gorgeous .

It’s got pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains, sprawling farmland, and historic and well-preserved city centers.

It makes a LOT of sense to see a little bit more of Switzerland, even if you’re going to be based in Zurich for most of your stay. Here are my top picks for day trips from Zurich, things to do in each of these locations, and a few quick tips for planning your Switzerland trip!

Some links in this post are to affiliate sites. If you purchase something through them, I may earn a small comission — which costs you nothing! I am very grateful when you use my links to make a purchase.

Guided Day Tours from Zurich

If you don’t want to rent a car in Zurich, you can reach all of the day trips mentioned here through guided tours. Here are a couple of tours that I hand-picked that will handle everything from Zurich to each location. Be sure to check what each tour covers, such as admission to Rhine Falls and food!

The Best of Zurich: Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls tour is almost exactly what we did on our self-drive!

The best day trips from Zurich

These Zurich day trips highlight some of the best things about Switzerland. Enjoy these historic towns and fabulous nature in Northern Switzerland!

Will you be based in Zurich? – I highly recommend Hotel St. Josef , excellently located within a ~5 minute walk of Zurich’s gorgeous old town. They’ve got free parking, great prices especially for Zurich, plus breakfast included (which will save you a boatload of money in Switzerland, trust me) and they upgraded our room for free! Maybe they sensed I’m a blogger 🤔

Table of Contents – Feel free to jump down to the section you’re interested in. At the end of the post I’ll also talk about the process of renting a car in Switzerland and a couple of tours you can take from Zurich city center if you want to avoid dealing with a car!

Lucerne is just…so Swiss. You know how when you think of Switzerland and you just think everything there must be really nice? It’s kind of like that. You’ve got a beautiful lake, surrounded by mountains, happy people walking around, and a take-away cafe breakfast that’ll set you back 15 €. If this isn’t bliss, I don’t know what is!

Lucerne is Switzerland’s sixth biggest city, with a population of 82,000 people. Although the population is so small, the city has a rich history. We happened to visit Lucerene in the middle of carnival and happened upon a huge crew of people wearing owl costumers, playing instrumental versions of Robbie William’s “Angels”. (For the Americans who don’t know who Robbie William’s is, it’s basically like Europe’s Justin Timberlake).

Ok, even of a digression – back to Lucerne! Honestly I think this town is worth visiting just because it’s so pretty. You have a lake, you have mountains, you have perfect instagram spots err’where.

Things to do in Lucerne

Here are a couple of easy things to do during your trip to Lucerne. If you only visit for a day you won’t have a ton of time, but you can still fit a lot in to a single day!

Walk across the Kapellbrücke – This wooden bridge was first built in the 14th century. Amazingly, they managed to preserve it for centuries until it caught fire IN 1993. Can you believe that?! They had to restore it for 3.4 million Swiss francs, which is almost exactly the same in US dollars. 😱 The Chapel Bridge, as it’s called in English, is easily Lucerne’s most popular photo location if not one of the most popular photographs in all of Switzerland.

Go for fondue. But first, what actually is fondue? One of my favorite things is reading reviews of fondue restaurants where people complain about having to cook their own food! In short, traditional fondue comes in two forms: cheese or meat. In cheese fondue you get bread and dip it in hot fondue sauce, whereas with meat fondue you cook it in broth. Both are delicious, and in Switzerland both will set you back AT LEAST 30 CHF ($30) per person. Welcome to Switzerland. You get bread and cheese for 30 bucks. Excuse me – fancy bread and cheese for 30 bucks.

Visit the Lion Monument. The Lion Monument is a monument to Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution. More than 600 were killed or died fighting, or were killed after they had surrendered. You’ll see a dying lion carved into a marble statue overlooking a pond. Nearby you also have the Gletschergarten , or Glacier Garden, which looks lovely but we didn’t have time to visit.

Take a cruise along Lake Lucerne. The lake is a prime spot for a boat ride. If I had more time in Lucerne I would’ve loved to take a boat ride and get to explore the city from that perspective. If you’re interested, there are a ton of really cool-looking boat tours around Lucerne .

Visit Mt. Rigi or Mt. Pilatus. Get yourself to the Alps! Near Lucerne you have two famous mountain tops. You might choose one or the other based on how much time you really have. Here are a couple of tours that’ll take you to each of these gorgeous peaks from Lucerne.

Staying in Lucerne? If you decide to make it more than a day trip, we loved Lake Villa Lotus for its location right on the lake and beautiful grounds (pictures above and below!).

If you happen to be bringing your kids to Lucerne, you can also read this useful list of things to do in Lucerne with kids . The youngins will love Switzerland since they are blissfully unaware of the prices 😉

Stein am Rhein

There’s a good chance you’ve seen photos of Stein am Rhein and didn’t even realize you were looking at this historic village in Northern Switzerland. It started out as a fishing village, and then grew when an abbey was formed there in the 11th century. Today you can see beautiful painted buildings adorned with frescoes along the car-free town center.

Stein am Rhein is popular with families and as a weekend break from Zurich. Come during the week to avoid the crowds, as it can get pretty busy when the weather is nice out.

Tips for visiting Stein am Rhein

Arrive in the morning for the best lighting. I came here in the late afternoon and my photos are all a bit dark! Since the streets are so narrow, you want to be here in the morning and mid-day for a well-illuminated town. If you decide to stay overnight, there are a grand total of 11 hotels in Stein am Rhein .

Bring your wide-angle camera lens. This village has a ton of tight spaces, so if you want to capture it on camera be sure to bring your wide angle camera lens . As you can see below, I can barely fit myself and this super tall tower in the same frame!

Go up the neighboring hill for a view over the town. There is a fortress at the top of a nearby hill called Hohenklingen Castle that overlooks the town. When we went, the fortress was closed (probably because it was winter) but the view was still gorgeous. You see vineyards dotting the slopes, basking in the late afternoon sunshine. I’m dying to come back in Summer!

Stein am Rhein is a very family-friendly destination. When you come here you’ll see a ton of families, doing all kinds of activities like riding their bikes along the river, taking boat rides along the Rhine, or just enjoying and ice cream code and that sweet Swiss sunshine. There are even play areas for children in a nearby park.

Getting to Stein am Rhein is easy with a car. It takes just 45 minutes by car from Zurich. You can also opt for going by train, which takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, including a few changes. For information about when the train is running, you can use the Swiss Rail Service timetable tool . There are also tours that’ll take you from Zurich to Stein am Rhine, which I’ve listed at the end of this post.

Side note! Not too far from Zurich is another option for a day trip, Lech, Austria, one of the most exclusive places to ski in Austria. This super charming town was a ton of fun to visit, check it out if you’re here in the winter and love skiing! Bonus: You can get gas in Austria which is way cheaper than Switzerland 👼

Lech, Austria is one of the top places to ski in the entire world. Here are things to do, hotels to try, and everything you need to know to enjoy your trip to Lech.

Rhine Falls

Last but not least, Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen is perhaps the most popular day trip from Zurich altogether. Which is clear to see when you try to park here on a Sunday afternoon! Quite a challenge, but with some determination, anyone can do it 😄

So what’s so neat about Rhine falls? Well, it’s the largest waterfall in Europe! It’s 150m wide by 23m high, or in “freedom units” 490 feet wide by 75 feet high. No matter what measurement system you use, this waterfall is MASSIVE. So massive that I just learned on Wikipedia that fish can’t even climb the waterfall, only eels can. So once you’re down the river, you’re just…down the river.

So what’s there to do at Rhine Falls?

Things to do at Rhine Falls

Get entry to Rhine Falls. This costs only 5 CHF or $5. There’s an ATM right near the ticket booth, but they also accept card payments. With this ticket you can go into some exhibits inside about the history of how the falls were discovered and famous painters who lived at the waterfall just to paint it!

Do some adventure activities! If you’re feeling brave at the largest waterfall in Europe, you can do activites like a boat tour, rafting, go to a nearby adventure park for zip-lining. There is really a ton to do in the area if you want to spend an entire day in the area.

For more information you can check out the official website of Rhine Falls .

Renting a car in Switzerland

So, now that you have some day trip ideas, how are you going to reach these things? One of the easiest options is renting a car in Switzerland. Provided you’re not as lame as me and are actually able to drive a manual-drive car, you can rent a car in Europe easily when coming from abroad. Yes, they also have automatic cars but they will be more expensive.

That said – it’s not cheap to rent a car in Switzerland. Be prepared to pay for it! Alternatively, you can use the Swiss Rail Service or simply go for a guided tour that will take care of all the logistics for you.

If you’re staying for longer in Zurich, check out this useful list of free things to do in Zurich for inspiration!

That’s a wrap! Are you headed to Switzerland soon? Let me know what you would most love to see in Switzerland, even if it’s still a dream right now 😉 I still need to go back and see a whole lot more myself!

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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Weekend Itinerary in Zurich, Switzerland: How to Spend 3 Days in Zurich

Looking for inspiration for a  weekend in Zurich ?  Read our tips below on the things to do in Zurich, Switzerland plus a sample weekend itinerary, where to stay, how to get around, and the best restaurants to try!

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland both by land area and population. Zurich has long been known for being an upmarket banking city and as Swiss financial capital. Its reputation for having a luxurious lifestyle made its name as one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Not only boasting with its eye-watering high-end shops, metropolitanized districts and deluxe chocolates, Zurich is also rich in historical and cultural areas. Set alongside Lake Zurich and framed by the Alps, this city is meant for indoor and outdoor exploration. And in case you find this beautiful city of Zurich so enchanting that you wish you would live here, you  can find more  details about buying a property here  from our partners – LawyersSwitzerland.com.

Other articles you can read:

• Things To Do in Zurich, Switzerland and Our Experience Staying in 25hours Hotels
• Complete List of Recommended Best Cheap Hotels and Backpacker Hostels in Switzerland
• Switzerland on a Budget: How to Save Money on Transport
• List of The Best Luxury Hotels in Switzerland
• Burlesque Suite of Grand Kameha Zurich – a most unique hotel room in Europe

Table of Contents

3 Day Weekend Trip Guide to Zurich, Switzerland

Day 1 – weekend guide to zurich, switzerland.

Old Town – This town has a lot to offer that you can spend the whole day. You can visit the 4 main churches of Old Town; Grossmünste, Fraumünster, Predigerkirche, St. Peterskirche. Allow yourself some time to freely wander the boutiques, cafes, shops, and restaurants that mostly found inside of wonderful traditionally painted houses. In the evening, go to the bustling nightlife at Niederdorf. 

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Zurich, Switzerland

Bahnhofstrasse – This high-end street is the best in the world, so who would want to miss the opportunity to walk down its street feeling like a billionaire?  

Limmat – After a pretentious shopping spree in Bahnhofstrasse, relax your mind and body here at Limmat. Swim on its clear water or take a boat ride or both. 

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Zurich, Switzerland

Botanical Garden –  Your last day should be a day of relaxation and tranquility. There’s no other way to do that than spending it at the Botanical Garden in Zurich. This garden features a variety of plants from all around the world. The best thing about this is it’s free of charge.

Where to Stay in Zurich, Switzerland

Where to stay in zurich, switzerland if you’re a backpacker.

Budget Youth Hostel

situated in Zürich, 5 km from the Swiss National Museum, 6 km from Lindenhof, 6 km from Zurich Exhibition Hall and 6 km from Kunsthaus Zurich. The accommodation features a shared kitchen, free WiF, shared bathroom with a bath, free continental breakfast.

Price: Starts at US$45 + US$3 taxes and charges , free cancellation. 

City Backpacker Biber

Located in Zurich’s Old Town, just 300 m from the Grossmünster, the city’s railway station is a 10-minute walk away, and 400 m from the famous Bahnhofstrasse Shopping Street This hotel has good price considering its convenient location. 

The accommodation has free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, 3 fully-equipped shared kitchens, shared bathroom facilities, and a common lounge area.

Price: Starts at US$42 + US$3 taxes and charges , free cancellation. No prepayment needed. 

Where to Stay in Zurich, Switzerland if you’re on a Budget

Oldtown Hostel Otter

This hostel and its old-established Wüste Bar is a stylish place for the young and the young-at-heart in Zürich’s Old Town. Oldtown Hostel Otteroffers beds in dormitory rooms, as well as individually furnished private rooms with a shared lounge, a kitchenette, luggage storage, and wireless internet hotspots.

Surrounded by a wide choice of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and international galleries, this hotel is also a very convenient place to stay.

Price: Starts at US$53, taxes and charges included, partially refundable

ibis budget Zurich City West

The rooms at the ibis budget Zurich City West are equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. is 9 km from the Zurich Airport. Ibis Budget Zurich City West is situated in the trendy Zurich West district, 10 minutes  by  public transport from the city center and  Zurich Main Station .

Price: starts at US$88 + US$2 taxes and charges , Breakfast at US$12 , non-refundable

Where to Stay in Zurich, Switzerland if you want Luxury

Park Hyatt Zurich

A contemporary 5-star hotel located in Zurich. It has a health club with a gym, steam bath, sauna and treatment rooms. Its spacious accommodation units have high-speed Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs from Bang & Olufsen. A 2-story wine library houses 3000 bottles of wine and has its own spiral staircase for access. The hotel’s lounge features comfortable lounge chairs and sofas, as well as an open fireplace. Park Hyatt Zurich will surely give you the luxurious experience you’d never forget.

Price: Starts at US$532 + US$2 taxes and charges , breakfast at US$50 , free cancellation,

Savoy Baur en Ville

Savoy Baur en Ville has 2 restaurants and free wifi all throughout the property. Every room at Savoy is elegantly furnished. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar and a safe are standard amenities. The refined Savoy Bar is the perfect place for a pre- or post-dinner drink. A continental breakfast is served daily. They serve innovative haute cuisine and the Tuscan-style Orsini Restaurant offers traditional Italian dishes.

Price: Starts at US$281 + US$2 taxes and charges , breakfast at US$50 , free cancellation, 

List of restaurants that you can try while in Zurich, Switzerland

Serves Italian, Mediterranean and European cuisines. If you love pizza, then this is the place to go to. Good prices for good food. 

Operating Hours:  5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Wed-Sun), 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Wed-Fri), 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (Sat-Sun) Address: Duebendorfstrasse 223 | 8051 Zürich, Zurich 8051, Switzerland

Restaurant Nihao

This restaurant serves various kinds of Asian foods. If you are craving for Chinese and Japanese cuisines, then you should go ahead and try their buffet. 

Operating Hours:  11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Sun), 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM (Tue-Sun), 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Tue-Fri) Address: Oerlikonerstrasse 43 | Oerlikon, Nähe Milchbuck und Berninaplatz, Zurich 8057, Switzerland

Restaurant Oberes Triemli

Serves Swiss and European cuisines. When you are in Switzerland, you oath to try authentic Swiss dishes hence this restaurant is here for you. 

Operating Hours:  11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Sun), 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Tue-Sat), 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM Address: Birmensdorferstrasse 535 | 8055 Zurich, Zurich 8055, Switzerland

How to go to Zurich, Switzerland from the UK

Via  easyJet (one way)

*From LTN London Luton  to ZRH Zurich

Ticket price: $65

Via  SWISS (one way)

*From LHR London Heathrow to ZRH Zurich

Ticket price: $75

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Backpacking in Europe , Backpacking in Switzerland

2 days in zurich switzerland: the best 2 day zurich itinerary.

Planning a weekend trip to Zurich?  Check out our Zurich travel guide for the best things to do in Zurich in 2 days with this epic two-day Zurich Itinerary.  While Zurich isn’t the cheapest destination, it is a city well worth visiting, and we’ve got some top tips to save money so you can enjoy Zurich on a budget!  If you can spend several days in Zurich to explore the city that would be best, but if you only have 2 days in Zurich that is enough to see the highlights and have a fabulous weekend.

This website contains sponsored and affiliate links. If you click through the links on this page and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. [Learn more]

This is a guest post written by local expert Aurimas from Go Look Explore, with edits and additions by Claire

Why Go to Zurich?

Known as a global centre for banking and finance, the city of Zurich lies on a beautiful lake, near the mountains and is one of the most liveable cities in the world. It’s the major city of Switzerland, a clean and wealthy country with low crime rates.

Zurich is a very cosmopolitan city where ex-pats and students from all over the world live and work. With its fascinating lake views, the city is also very artsy and full of street art.  You can enjoy all of the culture and city life while being on the doorstep of a beautiful lake and countryside.  It has the best of both worlds!

Check out some of the best things to do in Zurich:

Zurich Money Saving Tip

• Unlimited travel on public transportation
• A short boat trip on Lake Zurich
• Free or reduced admission to over 20 museums
• A 50% discount on the Zurich Old Town Walking Tour
• Further exclusive discounts in Zurich

GET YOUR DISCOUNTS

When is the Best Time to Visit Zurich?

June – August: The peak months to visit Zurich is during summer – from June to August. Though the weather is pleasant during these months, everything is more expensive, including flights and accommodation and it is expected that the city is crowded as these are the months when masses of tourists visit the city. 

September – November: These are the autumn season for Zurich, and because the weather is starting to get cold, there are fewer crowds. It is a good season to explore the city because of the colourful trees as the leaves turn, and hotels and flights aren’t as expensive during the summer season.

December – February: These are the off-peak season months when the city isn’t crowded as the summer, but it can get extremely cold.  Flights and hotels are cheaper during these months as demand drops with the temperatures!  On the plus side, if you’re a big fan of shopping, there are often big sales in many stores and shops if you visit in January, so you can shop until you drop!

March – May: These are spring months in Zurich, and the weather is still fresh, but it’s not peak season yet, so it’s not that expensive and crowded and can be a very lovely time to plan a trip to Zurich.

READ MORE: The Best Time to Visit Europe

How Many Days in Zurich is Enough?

Spending a weekend in Zurich is enough to get a good taster of what the city has to offer, and you can enjoy the best things to do in Zurich in two days quite easily.  That said, of course spending another day or two will give you more time to explore Zurich and really make the most of your visit. 

For the purposes of this Zurich itinerary, I’ve included a day trip from Zurich on the second day, but if you prefer to stay in the city on both days, there is more than enough to keep you busy in Zurich for two full days!

Money in Zurich

The currency in Zurich is the Swiss Franc (CHF) as is the rest of Switzerland. Cash and credit cards are widely accepted, but please take note that credit card transactions abroad may add extra charges to your card, so it is best to call your bank before you leave to make sure about your purchases. 

Alternatively, consider opening a travel bank account with Wise , so you can exchange money online and save a lot on unnecessary fees.  You can also get a travel credit card from Wise so you can pay with card or withdraw cash while you are travelling at rates much better than you might expect.

Zurich Budget Travel Tips

• A refillable water bottle comes in handy as there are tons of drinking fountains around Zurich so you can save money and reduce your plastic waste.  
• Department store cafes serve cheaper and fresher meals compared to restaurants.
• Mediterranean restaurants also serve more affordable food.
• Buy the Zurich card to save on public transportation and museum entrance fees.

Travel Safely

• Leave valuables at home and don't keep all your money and credit cards in one place.  I love hidden pocket clothing like this travel scarf for stashing my cash and passport or a belt with a hidden pocket.   Read more about how to hide money while travelling .
• Bring a water bottle with a built-in filter so you can safely drink water from any fresh water source while saving money and reducing plastic use.  I take my Water-to-Go bottle with me everywhere!
• Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.  I always buy travel insurance and was very glad I had insurance when I had my laptop and passport stolen in Ecuador!  Consider getting insurance for your trip to cover things like trip cancellation, emergency medical, lost luggage and stolen items, as well as adventure sports and activities and more.  
• I chose World Nomads Travel Insurance for my recent backpacking trip to Australia and New Zealand.  They offer travel insurance for independent travellers and intrepid families and you can get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road

GET A NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE

As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from  World Nomads  using this link. I do not represent  World Nomads . This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

READ MORE: Where & What to Eat in Switzerland on a Budget

Where to Stay for a Weekend in Zurich

While choosing your accommodation, always consider the location of the hotel/hostel. Finding a hotel near District 1 and near the train stations is the most convenient so that you can quickly get around the city.  However, if you have the Zurich Card you can find cheaper accommodation outside the centre, and use the Zurich card to get free public transport into the city. 

Cheap Accommodation in Zurich

Even hostels in Zurich aren’t cheap, but at least Zurich Youth Hostel gets great reviews for the friendly staff, clean rooms and filling breakfast.  You’ll need to take the tram into the city centre, so it is probably worth getting the Zurich Card for transport.  Choose from shared dorm rooms or private rooms. >>>CHECK PRICES

Capsule Hotel – Alpine Garden Zurich Airport is a cross between a hostel and a hotel, where you sleep in pods in large shared bedrooms.  It’s very convenient for the city, as there are frequent trains direct from the airport to the city centre, but breakfast isn’t included. >>>CHECK PRICES

Gasthaus zum Guten Glück  is a relatively cheap and clean guesthouse offering private bedrooms with shared bathrooms.  It’s closer to the city centre than most budget options and gets great reviews for cleanliness.  Breakfast is available at an extra cost from the cafe downstairs. >>>CHECK PRICES

Hotels in Zurich

Montmartre is a clean and modern hotel in the centre of Zurich, with spacious bedrooms a seating area and a private bathroom with a shower.  Some rooms have balconies overlooking the street.  Guests love the location, friendly staff and the cafe and bistro downstairs. >>>CHECK PRICES

For a real splurge, check out B2 Boutique Hotel Zürich , a stunning hotel in a former brewery in the centre of Zurich.  For an additional charge, you can use the public thermal bath and spa, and swimming pools.  Breakfast is included, and Swiss tapas and a wide range of different wines are served at the on-site lounge.  There is also a gorgeous library in the hotel, filled with 33,000 books to enjoy!  >>>CHECK PRICES

Apartments & Airbnb in Zurich

The Pastorini Furnished Apartment is a tastefully decorated modern apartment just outside the city centre.  The kitchen is fully equipped and has a dishwasher, fridge, washing machine, oven and stove to use.  It is close to transport links, as well as supermarkets and restaurants so you can cook your own meals or eat out.  >>>CHECK PRICES

Getting around Zurich

Most of the best tourist spots in Zurich are located in District 1, so walking might be the best way to explore each corner of this fascinating city. If you don’t want to walk and prefer to save more time, you can opt to ride a train or a bus ( included in the Zurich Card ).

Taxis are expensive, just like any other city in the world, so if you’re trying to save some money, avoid it as much as possible.

Making the Most of Your Zurich Itinerary

Zurich is one of the best cities to get the authentic feeling of Switzerland, with lively culture, delicious food, rich history, and breathtaking natural wonders surrounding the city. This two-day Zurich itinerary will give you all!  

On day one, you’re going to immerse yourself in a diverse and colourful culture by visiting museums, watching opera performances, and just strolling around the old town to get the vibe of the city.

Day two is more reserved for outdoor activities and visiting surrounding nature, so be sure to treat yourself with some delicious Rosti and mouth-watering fondue to keep your energy up! 

Our Zurich 2 day itinerary is designed for you to be able to enjoy exploring the city by yourself, but if you prefer to take a tour of Zurich, these are some of the most popular options for Zurich tours and activities:

• 4-Hour City Tour by Ferry, Cable Car and Coach
• City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit
• Highlights Walking Tour with a Local Guide
• 2 Hours Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket

How to Spend 2 Days in Zurich

Zurich itinerary day 1:.

On your first day, make sure you get a good breakfast first before starting your tour.  Although food in Switzerland can be expensive, a good breakfast always starts the day brighter!

Head to Felsenegg 

Felsenegg is at the top of a mountain overlooking Zurich.  Going here by cable car is so much fun and you can enjoy an awesome aerial view of the city, and the trip is included in the Zurich City Card.

To get there, take the S4 train in the direction of Langnau-Gattikon and get off at Adliswil, a trip of about 15 minutes. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the cable car valley station, which is well-signed.  The cable car leaves every 15 minutes for Felsenegg and is free if you have a zone transport pass.

At the top, there is a restaurant to enjoy the view of the city and have a coffee if you like. There are many walking trails at Felsenegg to explore. You can follow the path to Uetliberg if you want a decent walk, which takes an hour and 35 minutes. To go back to the city centre from Uetliberg, take the SB10 train to Zurich Main Station. 

Visit the Swiss National Museum

A couple of minutes’ walk from the main train station is the Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich in German), which serves as one of the most essential museums showcasing the cultural history of Europe. You can learn about significant historical events that happened in Europe during the last centuries.

Everything is there – from the ancient era all the way to dark middle ages and gothic period. The museum itself features a breath-taking architecture that transports you back in time and is well worth fitting into your Zurich 2 day itinerary.

Walk around Bahnhofstrasse 

Bahnhofstrasse is Zürich’s main downtown street, and one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive shopping avenues. If you’re a shopping addict, then you can’t miss this attractive street filled with every shop you can possibly imagine. From handcrafted watches to gourmet chocolates, this place has it all!

Explore Rennweg

Another place to go shopping or window shopping is Rennweg, a medieval main road which is now part of the inner-city pedestrian zone of Zürich, Switzerland. The word Rennweg in medieval German means a street where horses were moved.  There are no horses today, just busy shoppers!    

Lindenhof Hill for Panoramic View of Zurich

Lindenhof hill sits in the heart of the old town and features a historical Roman castle and former Imperial Palace.  Just take a quick walk to the top of the hill and enjoy the views over the city. 

Go to Church

The two famous Fraumünster and Grossmünster churches are key Zurich landmarks and are also important additions to any Zurich itinerary. 

Fraumünster is a stunning church with a single green spire and features on many Zurich guide books and postcards.  It is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.  It costs 5 CHF to go inside, but is worth it!

On the other side of the Limmat River, Grossmünster twin-towered Romanesque cathedral is free to enter but you can pay a small fee to go up one of the church towers for lovely views over the city and the lake, and even as far as the Glarus Alps on a clear day.

A Night at the Opera – Opernhaus Zurich

The best way to end the day is by watching a world-class opera or ballet performance. Open since 1891, the Opernhaus Zurich is the main venue for opera and ballet performances in the city. As they say, your trip wouldn’t be complete if you come to Zurich if you do not enjoy a concert at Opernhaus Zurich!

Zurich Itinerary Day 2

Visit rhine falls and stein am rhein (half day tour).

Rhine Falls is considered the most powerful waterfall in Europe. It is located on the High Rhine close to the town Schaffhausen, about 40 minutes’ drive outside Zurich.  You can travel there independently, or book a tour which includes transport .

The beautiful natural wonder was slowly created during the last ice age. Falls are roughly 150 meters wide and 23 meters high, so prepare your camera! Several guides can help you with booking a tour of this majestic falls.

After the falls, you can visit the medieval town of Stein Am Rhein. It is a small town, west of Lake Constance in northeast Switzerland. It’s known for its half-timbered medieval houses with painted facades, clustered around Rathausplatz in the old town.

For a complete and authentic experience, be sure to check some exciting things to do in Schaffhausen , which can easily take a full day of your time. From Rhine falls and iconic old town to Munot castle and IWC watch museum, Schaffhausen has it all!

Enjoy Zurich Lake

After your grand tour of the Rhine falls and Stein Am Rhein, you can go back to Zurich and visit the Lake Zurich in the heart of the city. It’s right at the end of both Bahnhofstrasse and Niederdorfstrasse, so it’s easy to find, and you’ll end up watching the sunset here.

Explore any side of the lake, soaking up the breath-taking views of the distant Alps and surrounding forests that keep Zurich cool in the summer. There’s a lake bathing area where you can take a dip during summer.

You can also get a drink and swim in the evening, which is the perfect way to finish your weekend in Zurich.

Other Things to Do in Zurich

Lindt chocolate museum.

You might be surprised to see that the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum didn’t make it into our Zurich itinerary, so if you are a chocolate lover you may well want to add this to your Zurich must-visit list!  Here you can learn about the history of Swiss chocolate, participate in chocolate-making workshops, and, of course, sample delicious Swiss chocolates!

Kunsthaus Art Museum

Art enthusiasts should visit the Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland’s most important art museums. It houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, and many others.

Relax at Thermal Baths

Unwind and rejuvenate at one of Zurich’s thermal baths. While thermal baths in Zurich might not be as well known as Budapest , you can still enjoy the soothing hot water, saunas, and wellness facilities at Thermalbad & Spa Zurich.

More Day Trips from Zurich

If you have an extra day in Zurich or prefer to explore further afield, there are some fabulous Zurich day trips to enjoy.  While you can travel independently, these tours include transport and a scheduled itinerary to help you to make the most of your day:

• Bus Day Trip to Heidiland and Liechtenstein
• Day Trip to Grindelwald & Interlaken
• Day Trip to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• Lucerne & Mount Pilatus Day Tour
• Lucerne and Engelberg Full-Day Tour
• Black Forest, Titisee, and Rhine Falls Bus Day Trip

Doesn’t this sound like a fabulous Zurich itinerary?  With just 2 days in Zurich, you can get a wonderful introduction to Switzerland and enjoy a wonderful Zurich city break.  I can’t wait to go and see for myself!

About the Author

Aurimas is a passionate hiker, currently residing in Switzerland. He loves to explore the hidden corners of the Swiss Alps, peaks and villages.  You can follow his adventures on his blog Go Look Explore , and on Facebook , Instagram and YouTube .

Like this post?  Pin it to read later:

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

4 thoughts on “ 2 Days in Zurich Switzerland: The Best 2 Day Zurich itinerary ”

Wow! The view from the mountain and the Rhine falls look awesome! Just have been to the airport of Zurich.

Best regards,

Zurich is one of the top places in the world to venture.Thanks for sharing this amazing itinerary!

Thanks so much for reading!

This is such a great two-day itinerary! Thanks for sharing

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Zurich & Geneva in 4 Days: Swiss Cities' Charms Unveiled

April 21, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 4-day journey through the heart of Switzerland, exploring the historic and cultural highlights of Zurich and Geneva. Begin your adventure in Zurich's Old Town, soaking in the historic ambiance for 2 hours before heading to the serene Lindenhof for a peaceful hour. Marvel at the architectural beauty of Fraumunster Church and the iconic Grossmunster, each offering an hour of exploration into the city's religious heritage. Day 2 in Zurich is an art lover's delight, starting with the Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich) and followed by the Swiss National Museum, each providing an hour of captivating exhibits. Conclude the day with a 2-hour visit to the enchanting Zoo Zurich. Transition to Geneva on Day 3, where the Palace of Nations stands as a testament to history for an hour, and the poignant Broken Chair sculpture demands a brief 5-minute reflection. Enjoy the tranquility of Lake Geneva for an hour and then witness the majestic Geneva Water Fountain during a 15-minute stop. Your final day in Geneva is a blend of nature and culture, starting with an hour at the picturesque English Garden, a brief 30-minute admiration of the Flower Clock's intricate design, an hour exploring the spiritual St Pierre Cathedral, and culminating with an hour at the Patek Philippe Museum, where timepieces tell the story of innovation and artistry. This itinerary promises a blend of serene landscapes and rich cultural experiences, ensuring your Swiss escapade is both memorable and diverse.

• Day 1: Time-Traveling Through Zurich's Historic Heart

Begin your Zurich adventure by stepping back in time in the Old Town, a historic site that serves as the perfect introduction to the city's rich past. Spend a couple of hours wandering through the cobblestone streets, where every corner tells a story. The Old Town is not just a journey through Zurich's history, but a lively area filled with quaint shops and cafes that invite you to explore and enjoy.

Attraction Info

• Zürich, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Next, make your way to the serene Lindenhof, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Zurich. This peaceful spot offers a respite from the bustling city life and a chance to reflect amidst the greenery. With just an hour at Lindenhof, you can soak in the panoramic views of the Old Town and the Limmat River, and perhaps even engage in a game of giant chess with locals.

• 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour

Fraumunster Church

Continue your cultural pilgrimage to the Fraumunster Church, an architectural gem that stands as a testament to Zurich's religious heritage. Allow yourself an hour to admire the stunning stained glass windows and the church's elegant spire. The Fraumunster is not only a place of worship but also a canvas for art, with windows designed by the famous artist Marc Chagall.

• Münsterhof 2, Zurich 8001 Switzerland
• Open from 3/1-10/31,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/1-2/28,10:00am-5:00pm，The specific business status on special dates is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Grossmunster

Conclude your day's exploration at the Grossmunster, an iconic twin-towered church that dominates Zurich's skyline. This historic site, with its storied past and impressive architecture, warrants an hour of your time. As you step inside, the solemn atmosphere and the intricate details of the Grossmunster will transport you to a time when it played a pivotal role in the Reformation.

• Grossmünsterplatz, 8001 Zurich
• Open from 3/1-10/31,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/1-2/28,10:00am-5:00pm，The specific business status during special opening hours is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Where to Stay Tonight

Altstadt hotel, hotel rössli.

• Day 2: Cultural Treasures and Wild Encounters in Zurich

Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich)

Kickstart your second day in Zurich with an inspiring visit to the Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich), nestled at Heimplatz 1. As you immerse yourself in this premier art gallery for an hour, let your senses be captivated by the masterpieces that span from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. The Kunsthaus is not just a house of art but a canvas of cultural history, where each brushstroke tells a story and each sculpture whispers the secrets of the past.

• Heimplatz 1, Zurich 8001 Switzerland
• Open on Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Closed on Mon;Open on Thu,10:00am-8:00pm，Closed on December 25, 2024 and January 1, 2025. Please see the official website for opening hours on other holidays.

Swiss National Museum

Continue your cultural exploration at the Swiss National Museum, a short stroll from the Kunsthaus. With its striking castle-like architecture at Museumstrasse 2, this museum offers a one-hour journey through Switzerland's rich heritage. From ancient artifacts to medieval armory and historical dioramas, the Swiss National Museum is a treasure trove that brings the tapestry of Swiss history to life.

• Museumstrasse 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
• Open on Thu,10:00am-7:00pm;Open on Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm，The specific business status during special opening hours is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Conclude your day with a wild adventure at Zoo Zurich, located at Zuerichbergstrasse 221. Spend two hours among exotic animals and vibrant marine life in the zoo and aquarium. The Zoo Zurich is a sanctuary where conservation meets education, and every enclosure is a window into the natural world. It's a place where you can witness the majesty of wildlife and the delicate balance of ecosystems, all within the heart of Zurich.

• Zuerichbergstrasse 221, Zurich 8044 Switzerland
• Open from 9:00am-6:00pm，March to October Masoala Rainforest: 10am to 6pm; November to February Masoala Rainforest: 10am to 5pm; Dec. 24: The entire zoo closes at 4 p.m.

Sorell Hotel Zuerichberg

The dolder grand - city and spa resort zurich.

• Day 3: Geneva's Grandeur - Palaces, Monuments, and Lakeside Splendor

Palace of Nations

Kicking off the third day with a touch of diplomacy, the Palace of Nations stands as a beacon of global governance. As the European headquarters of the United Nations, this historic building is not just a site of international significance; it's a symbol of peace and unity. Spend an hour exploring the grand halls where world leaders convene, and feel the weight of history within its walls.

• 14, Avenue de la Paix, CH - 1211 Geneva 10
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open on Mon-Fri,8:30am-5:00pm

Broken Chair

Just a stone's throw from the Palace of Nations, the Broken Chair monument awaits. This poignant sculpture, towering over Place des Nations, demands a mere five minutes of your time but leaves a lasting impression. Its powerful message about landmines and cluster bombs resonates long after you've witnessed its imposing wooden structure.

• 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 5-10 minutes
• Lake Geneva

Continue your Geneva journey with a serene hour by the shores of Lake Geneva. This vast expanse of blue is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Switzerland. Whether you stroll along the promenade, watch the boats, or simply bask in the tranquil atmosphere, Lake Geneva's charm is undeniable.

The Geneva Water Fountain

Conclude your day's exploration with a splash at The Geneva Water Fountain, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. This magnificent jet of water, reaching skyward from the lake, is a sight to behold and a photo opportunity not to be missed. Though your visit may be brief, the memory of the fountain's powerful surge will be a lasting souvenir of your Geneva adventure.

• Quai Gustave-Ador, 1207 Genève, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 15 minutes

Floatinn Boat-Bnb

Hotel churchill.

• Day 4: Geneva's Glorious Gardens, Grand Cathedral, and Horological Heritage

English Garden

Begin your final day with a serene stroll through the English Garden, a verdant oasis nestled in the heart of Geneva. As the morning sun casts a soft glow over meticulously manicured lawns and flowerbeds, the garden offers a tranquil retreat. Take a moment to admire the artistry of the landscape design, which provides a picturesque start to your day's explorations.

• Quai du Général-Guisan 34, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland

The Flower Clock

Just a short walk from the English Garden, discover the iconic Flower Clock, a unique blend of horology and horticulture. This floral masterpiece is not only a testament to Geneva's watchmaking tradition but also a vibrant display of seasonal blooms that form the clock's face. Snap a photo with this living timepiece, a symbol of the city's ingenuity and elegance.

• Quai du Général-Guisan 28, 1204 Genève, Switzerland
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour

St Pierre Cathedral

Continue your cultural journey at St. Pierre Cathedral, a historical beacon towering above Geneva's skyline. Spend an hour delving into the rich past of this architectural marvel, from its Romanesque roots to Gothic grandeur. The cathedral's interior whispers stories of reformation and revolution, inviting you to reflect on the epochs that have shaped Geneva's spiritual and cultural identity.

• Cr de Saint-Pierre, 1204 Genève, Switzerland
• Open from 10/1-5/30,Mon-Sat,10:00am-5:30pm;Open from 10/1-5/30,Sun,12:00pm-5:30pm;Open from 6/1-9/30,Mon-Fri,9:30am-6:30pm;Open from 6/1-9/30,Sat,9:30am-4:30pm;Open from 6/1-9/30,Sun,12:00pm-6:30pm

Patek Philippe Museum

Conclude your Geneva getaway with a visit to the Patek Philippe Museum, where the art of watchmaking is celebrated in an impressive collection of timepieces. From antique watches that tell of bygone eras to contemporary creations showcasing technical prowess, the museum captures the essence of Geneva's world-renowned craftsmanship. Allow yourself to be captivated by the intricate designs and the history of horology that unfolds within these walls.

• Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 7, CH-1205 Geneva
• Open on Tue-Fri,2:00pm-6:00pm;Open on Sat,10:00am-6:00pm，On Saturday 4th May the museum will open at 13h00. Closed on the following bank holidays: Friday 29 March to Monday 1 April, Thursday 9 May, Monday 20 May, Thursday 1 August, Thursday 5 September, Wednesday 25 December.

Home Swiss Hotel

Tiffany hotel.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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This U.S. City Was Just Named the Wealthiest in the World — and 1 in 24 Residents Are Millionaires

One out of every 24 people in New York City is a millionaire.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

As the saying goes, "You are the company you keep." And if you're hoping to keep some seriously rich company, it's time to head to these ultra-wealthy cities around the globe.

On May 7, Henley & Partners , a wealth investment firm, released its list of the World's Wealthiest Cities. It came to its conclusion using data from the wealth intelligence firm, New World Wealth, which tracks the "global wealth migration trends between countries and cities" and the movement of more than 150,00 high-net-worth individuals, with a special focus on company founders and individuals from high-value companies in C-suite positions, and those with $30 million in "listed company holdings." 

It then defined cities based on their "normal city limits" with several exceptions, including "The Bay Area," which encompasses both San Francisco and Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, which includes the city of Los Angeles as well as Beverly Hills, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Malibu, Miami, which includes both Miami and Miami Beach, Nice to Èze, which includes Nice and Èze as well as Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Villefranche-sur-Mer, Athens, which includes both the city and surrounding beachfront area, Zurich, which includes the Canton of Zurich, and Geneva, which refers to the Canton of Geneva.

The company also shared its definition of "wealth," which it refers to as an "individual’s liquid investable wealth, which only includes listed company holdings, cash holdings, and debt-free residential property holdings." Additionally, it noted it defined "high-net-worth individuals" as those with $1 million or more in liquid, investable assets.

After creating all the parameters and crunching all the numbers, the team named New York City the wealthiest in the world, where one out of every 24 residents is a millionaire .

"The total wealth held by the Big Apple’s residents now exceeds $3 trillion — higher than the total wealth held in most major G20 countries ­— and a staggering 349,500 millionaires, 744 centi-millionaires (with investable wealth of over $100 million), and 60 billionaires live in the city," the company shared in a press release about its findings. 

Coming in close second is another U.S. city — California's Bay Area. "The Bay Area has enjoyed one of the world’s highest wealth growth rates, increasing its millionaire population by a whopping 82% over the past decade, and is now home to 305,700 millionaires, 675 centi-millionaires, and 68 billionaires," the release added. 

This year's third-place city may still be wildly wealthy, but as the company noted, its worth is falling. 

"Tokyo … which led the pack as the world’s wealthiest city a decade ago, has suffered a 5% decline in its resident high-net-worth-individual population over the past ten years, and now sits in 3rd place with just 298,300 millionaires," it added. Still, a rather impressive stat. 

Joining these three cities on the list is Singapore in fourth place with 244,800 resident millionaires, and London in fifth with more than 227,000 millionaires to its name. Want to see how your city stacks up? Check out the full list at henleyglobal.com . 

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And The Sun newspaper reports that actress Amanda Abbington , who was partnered with Pernice last year but left the show after a few weeks citing medical reasons, is one of the complainants, along with two unnamed others.

Strictly Come Dancing is the BBC’s biggest entertainment show, and the original idea behind dozens of international versions, called Dancing With the Stars in most countries. It takes its name in the UK from a popular dancing show Come Dancing hosted by the BBC that ran for several decades until the 1990s.

Abbington has made no secret of her distress. It was previously reported that she had requested the BBC share video footage of her rehearsal time with Pernice. The BBC has stood by its star dancer – he has recently made two travel series for the broadcaster with fellow Strictly pro Anton du Beke – but his name is not currently attached to the 2024 series.

Neither the BBC nor Pernice were available for comment to The Times.

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