Day trip from Zurich
Mount Rigi
Mountain Views Above the Lakes
Approximately 1.5–2 hours depending on route
Why visit
Mount Rigi offers a classic Swiss mountain day of cogwheel railways, panoramic trails and wide views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. Several attractive routes make the journey part of the experience.
Top things to see
- Rigi Kulm panorama
- Historic cogwheel railway
- Lake Lucerne views
- Rigi Kaltbad
- Waymarked mountain trails
Suggested one-day plan
Leave Zurich for Arth-Goldau, Vitznau or Weggis according to your chosen mountain route.
Continue by cogwheel railway and, depending on the route, boat or cable car toward the mountain.
Enjoy Rigi Kulm viewpoints and a suitable scenic walk before beginning the descent.
Complete the mountain and mainline transport connections back to Zurich.
Mount Rigi is a mountain excursion, not one direct train from Zurich. Common options combine a mainline train to Arth-Goldau with the Rigi cogwheel railway, or travel via Lucerne followed by a boat to Vitznau and the mountain railway. Another route uses Weggis and a cable car. Check the complete itinerary before departure.
A full day (9–12 hours).
- The journey combines mainline rail with mountain railway and sometimes boat or cable car travel.
- Weather can change quickly and affect visibility.
- Check mountain transport operations and the final descent before travelling.
- Choose trails appropriate to current conditions and footwear.