The Best Day Trips and Excursions from Zurich

While Switzerland's largest city of Zurich dazzles with its urban sophistication, the true magic lies just beyond the city limits. I love using Zurich as a home base to explore all the area has to offer. Within a two-hour radius, historical landmarks, thundering waterfalls, towering snow-capped mountains, historic towns, and serene lakes await discovery, making Zurich a great home base. Each of these easy day trips tells its own story, from Europe's oldest covered wooden bridge to the world's steepest cogwheel railway. Pack your hiking boots and camera – you're about to experience some of the most breathtaking adventures the country has to offer. All of these popular day trips are easy to see on your own either by public transport or by car. There are also full-day excursions offered by tour groups if you are more comfortable having a tour guide and all the logistics taken care of. 

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Lucerne

An easy train ride from Zurich with travel time under an hour, Lucerne sparkles along the shores of Lake Lucerne. This is probably the most popular day trip from Zurich. The city's crown jewel is the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), Europe's oldest covered wooden bridge dating to the 14th century. Its companion, the octagonal Water Tower, stands as the city's most photographed monument while the Swiss Transport Museum draws crowds as Switzerland's most-visited museum. For the best experience, hop aboard a lake cruise to take in the mountain views, or stroll through the well-preserved picturesque old town. Another one of Lucerne´s main attractions is the Lion monument. It is a famous rock relief sculpture depicting a dying lion, carved into a cliff face. Designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn in 1820–21 by Lukas Ahorn, it commemorates the Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution while protecting King Louis XVI.

Mount Pilatus

The Swiss Alps are world famous for a reason. Towering at 2,128 meters (6,982 ft) above sea level, Mount Pilatus offers some of central Switzerland's most stunning views including 74 mountain peaks and 5 lakes.  Just 20 minutes from Lucerne, the mountain's main attraction is the world's steepest cogwheel railway, running at a 48% gradient. You can experience the famous "Golden Round Trip" - starting with a boat ride on Lake Lucerne, ascending via the railway, and returning by aerial cable car and gondolas. During summer months (May-October), hikers can trek the mountain paths while families enjoy the toboggan run. Local folklore tells of dragons once inhabiting the mountain's caves, adding mystical charm to your visit. 

Rhine Falls and Schaffhausen

The thundering Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall, stretches 150 meters (492 feet) wide and plunges 23 meters (105 feet) down near the medieval town of Schaffhausen. There is a viewing platform on both sides of the Rhine. Both are spectacular vantage points of the rushing waters. Take a thrilling boat ride where you can feel the spray of the falls. Worth castle sits on an island in the middle of the river. It served as a transhipment point up until the 19th century. Laufen Castle stands majestically overlooking the Rhine Falls, providing visitors with spectacular views. Dating back to the 9th century, this medieval fortress has served various functions throughout history, from an administrative center to a customs post controlling river traffic. Today, the beautifully preserved castle houses a restaurant and museum, while its terraces offer some of the most dramatic vantage points to experience the thundering waters below. The castle's strategic position between the waterfall and the town of Laufen has made it an integral part of the region's cultural heritage and a popular destination for tourists seeking both historical significance and natural beauty.

Schaffhausen's well-preserved Old Town is distinguished with ornate oriel windows and buildings adorned with elaborate frescoes. This picturesque city is known for its iconic Munot fortress, a circular 16th-century fortification that offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Beyond its historical architecture, Schaffhausen embodies the essence of Swiss-German culture with its blend of traditions, festivals, and renowned craftsmanship in watchmaking. Direct trains from Zurich's main station reach the falls in about 40 minutes.

Bern

Switzerland's capital city sits one hour from Zurich by direct train. The historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, pulls you into its charming cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture. The city center is characterized by distinctive 6km-long arcaded shopping promenades and 16th-century fountains. Bern stretches along a peninsula surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Aare River, where locals famously float downstream during the summer season. At its heart, the Zytglogge clock tower puts on a show every hour with moving figurines that have kept time since the 13th century. Dominated by the towering Bern Minster (cathedral of Bern) with Switzerland's highest church spire, Bern balances its historical heritage with contemporary culture. The city maintains a relaxed pace despite its political importance. Follow the sloping streets down to the Bear Park, where Bern's symbolic animals roam freely in their riverside home. For the best city views, head to the Rosengarten, a peaceful garden overlooking the red-tiled roofs and spires of the old town. The Federal Palace stands proudly as the seat of Swiss government, offering a free guided tour when parliament isn't in session.

Basel

Basel beckons art lovers with its exceptional art collections and striking architecture. It is located in northern Switzerland close to the border where three countries meet, functioning as a sophisticated cultural hub with over 40 museums in a relatively compact area. The Kunstmuseum houses one of Europe's finest art collections and the Fondation Beyeler is known for its modern masterpieces. The city is the host of Art Basel - the world´s premier contemporary art fair. Other popular tourist attractions include the whimsical Tinguely Fountain which brings mechanical art to life in the heart of the city, the vibrant red sandstone Rathaus (Town Hall) and the towering Basler Münster (cathedral). The city's location on the Rhine River adds charm, with waterfront restaurants and promenades offering pleasant spots to unwind after museum visits. Basel harmoniously blends medieval architecture with bold contemporary designs by renowned architects like Herzog & de Meuron and Frank Gehry. Getting to Basel is straightforward, with direct trains departing Zurich's main station every 30 minutes. The journey takes 53 minutes, making Basel perfect for art-focused day trips. 

Appenzell

In the rolling hills of eastern Switzerland, Appenzell is a region of extraordinary pastoral beauty. The landscape features rolling green hills, traditional farmhouses with sloping roofs, and the dramatic backdrop of the Alpstein mountains with Mount Säntis as its crown jewel. The area offers a plethora of outdoor activities from hiking, to biking, to paragliding, to riding alpine slides and more. Among the region's most enchanting settlements are the town of Appenzell itself, with its vibrantly painted buildings adorned with traditional frescos, and car-free center. The Appenzell Museum brings local traditions to life through exhibits of regional costumes and crafts. The town of Trogen, known for its elegant manor houses and Heiden, offering sweeping views over Lake Constance are also worth a visit. 

The hamlet of Ebenalp, reachable by cable car, captivates visitors with its precariously perched Äscher guesthouse built into the cliff face—perhaps the most photographed location in all of Appenzell. Originally built in 1846 as a small farm, this historic structure clings to the rock face beneath towering limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine landscape. The rustic inn became internationally famous after being featured on the cover of National Geographic's "Destinations of a Lifetime" publication. Accessible only by hiking trails or cable car, visitors trek to this remote location to enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine while taking in the spectacular scenery of the Appenzell region, making it a beloved destination for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic Alpine experience. Do not let the fact that you have to trek to this destination deter you. There are multiple routes you can take. One is just a short walk from the parking lot (maybe 20 minutes), passing you by a charming chapel built into a cave. This is also one of the best places to sit on a bench and watch all the paragliders.

This picturesque region has stubbornly preserved its cultural heritage, with locals often seen in traditional dress during festivals and a strong tradition of folk music, yodeling, and the distinctive Alphorn. The annual Alpabzug (cow parade) represents one of Appenzell's most cherished traditions, typically occurring in late September or early October. During this celebration, farmers adorned in traditional costumes lead their elaborately decorated cows down from the summer alpine pastures to their winter quarters in the valleys. The cattle wear enormous ceremonial bells and floral headdresses, creating a spectacular audio-visual experience as they process through villages like Urnäsch, Appenzell town, and Gais. These parades culminate in village festivals featuring local cheese, sausages, and the famous Appenzeller Biberli honey cakes. I was able to be in the area during one of these parades and it was magical. 

From Zurich, the journey takes about two hours by train with a connection in St. Gallen. By car it is quicker, taking about an hour to get from Zurich to the town of Appenzell. 

Rapperswil-Jona

Known as the "Town of Roses," Rapperswil brightens the shoreline on the upper end of Lake Zurich with more than 15,000 rose plants blooming in its public gardens between June and October drawing visitors from all over. The medieval castle stands watch over the old town's winding streets while its wooden pedestrian bridge stretches across Lake Zurich, offering pleasant walks with mountain views. Families flock to Knie's Children's Zoo, while garden enthusiasts wander through the scented rose gardens from June through October. You can reach Rapperswil-Jona in 36 minutes by direct train from Zurich, or take a scenic hour boat ride across Lake Zurich for added charm.

Mount Rigi

Called the "Queen of the Mountains," Mount Rigi stands proudly between three lakes, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding region across 13 lakes and the stretching all the way to the Black Forest. Home to Europe's oldest mountain railway, opened in 1871, this peak welcomes visitors year-round. At Rigi Kaltbad, you can soak in mineral baths while gazing at the mountain panorama. From Zurich, take a train to Arth-Goldau, then board the historic cogwheel train to the summit. You can also reach it by cable car. In summer, wildflower meadows carpet the slopes perfect for hiking the extensive trails, while winter brings opportunities for snowshoe hiking, skiing and sledding. The journey becomes part of the experience when you combine it with a boat ride on Lake Lucerne to Vitznau.

Stein am Rhein

Along the upper reaches of the Rhine River, where Lake Constance narrows into a flowing waterway, Stein am Rhein is a great example of medieval Swiss architecture. The town's main square, Rathausplatz, showcases medieval buildings adorned with intricate frescoes depicting historical and allegorical scenes. The former Monastery of St. George now serves as a museum highlighting the town's religious heritage. Above the town, Hohenklingen Castle provides sweeping views of the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance. You can reach this picture-perfect town in about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Zurich, changing trains once in Winterthur. By car it is about 40 minutes. Visit during the town's summer festivals to experience local traditions at their liveliest.

Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch

At the foot of the Bernese Alps sits Grindelwald, another great day trip from Zurich. This is a charming mountain village that serves as the starting point for Switzerland's most magnificent mountain experience. The village leads to Jungfraujoch, nicknamed "Top of Europe," which stands at an impressive 3,454 meters (11,300 feet) above sea level. Here, you'll find Europe's highest train station, along with the Ice Palace's frozen sculptures (open all year) and the Sphinx Observatory's panoramic views. The journey from Zurich takes about three hours by train, but a drive is just under two hours. The cogwheel railway climbs steadily through Kleine Scheidegg, offering views of the Eiger's north face which has challenged rock climbers for generations. Before making the trip, check the weather forecast - clear skies make the mountain views truly worthwhile. In the winter the small town in turned into a bustling ski destination. The village itself retains its traditional character with wooden chalets, flower-adorned balconies, and church spires, while the Grindelwald-First gondola whisks visitors up to panoramic viewpoints and the heart-stopping "First Cliff Walk" suspended walkway.

Zug

Just 23 minutes from Zurich by train, Zug combines lakeside beauty with small-town charm. The medieval Clock Tower (Zytturm) stands proudly in the old town, its 16th-century timepiece marking the hours as it has for centuries while the 16th century town hall is adorned with beautiful murals. Along Lake Zug's shoreline, a scenic promenade invites leisurely walks past swaying sailboats and mountain vistas. Spring brings a special magic when hundreds of cherry trees burst into pink blossoms throughout the city. Local cafes serve traditional cherry tarts and Kirschwasser (cherry brandy), celebrating the fruit that has become synonymous with Zug's identity. In summer, the lake becomes a haven for swimming and water sports enthusiasts.

St. Gallen

One hour east of Zurich by train, St. Gallen shines with its architectural masterpiece - the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Abbey Library stands as one of the world's oldest, housing 170,000 books and precious medieval manuscripts in its ornate baroque hall. Plan your visit around the library's opening hours to see its magnificent decorated ceiling and original manuscripts. Beyond its monastic treasures, St. Gallen is renowned for its textile industry that flourished in the 18th century, leaving a legacy of ornate oriel windows and merchants' mansions throughout the traffic-free old town. Above the city, the Drei Weieren (Three Ponds) is a great place for swimming in summer and ice skating in winter. The city streets buzz with students from the University of St. Gallen, adding youthful energy to the historical setting. 

Einsiedeln

One hour south of Zurich by train, Einsiedeln stands out with its magnificent Benedictine abbey, founded in 934. This is Switzerland´s most significant pilgrimage site as it houses the Black Madonna statue that draws pilgrims from across Europe. This sacred figure has called the abbey home since the middle ages. The chapel is the world's largest nativity scene, Diorama Bethlehem, features 450 detailed figurines telling the Christmas story. The twin-towered baroque church features elaborate rococo interiors with stunning frescoes and ornate stuccowork. Einsiedeln has earned renown for its long tradition of wooden craftsmanship, particularly in the production of exquisite handcrafted nativity scenes and decorative items. The town's picturesque setting, surrounded by rolling green hills and with Lake Sihl nearby, offers visitors a tranquil retreat that feels worlds away from urban Switzerland. In winter, Einsiedeln transforms into a cross-country skiing paradise, with kilometers of well-maintained trails crossing the snow-covered plateau, while also hosting international ski jumping competitions at its impressive Nordic facility that has produced several Olympic champions for Switzerland. Direct trains run regularly from Zurich's main station, making Einsiedeln perfect for spiritual reflection or cultural immersion.

Lauterbrunnen

Hidden between towering limestone cliffs, Lauterbrunnen Valley, often referred to as the most beautiful valley in Europe, stuns visitors with its 72 thundering waterfalls. The star attraction, Staubbach Falls, plunges 300 meters (980 feet) from an overhanging rock face, creating a misty spectacle visible throughout the village. Inside the mountain, Trümmelbach Falls roars through its rocky chambers, showcasing the raw power of glacial meltwater through 10 cascading levels. The peaceful village of Lauterbrunnen, with its white church steeple and traditional Swiss chalets, seems frozen in time against this dramatic backdrop. The 2-hour 20-minute train journey from Zurich winds through Switzerland's most striking landscapes. It is about an hour and 45 minute drive from Zurich. The valley serves as a gateway to higher adventures, with cable car ride leading to car-free Mürren and Wengen. Summer visitors can watch paragliders float past waterfalls, while hikers traverse flower-filled alpine meadows beneath the peaks. J.R.R. Tolkien visited Lauterbrunnen in 1911, and the valley's ethereal beauty is said to have inspired the fictional elven realm of Rivendell in his Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Switzerland's efficient rail network transforms Zurich into the perfect launch pad for exploring the country's diverse attractions. From the medieval charm of Stein am Rhein to the dramatic heights of Jungfraujoch, each destination offers a distinct flavor of Swiss culture, history, and natural beauty. Before you settle for just exploring the city, consider how short trips to these nearby gems can enrich your Zurich itinerary. With most destinations reachable within two hours, you can wake up in Zurich, spend a full day adventuring, and still return in time for dinner at your favorite city restaurant.

Ready to travel to Switzerland? Contact me at stefanie@eurotravelsbydesign.com and I will custom design your perfect itinerary.