My wife and I will be in Lucerne in late May and are trying to decide between Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. We'll be in Switzerland for 4 days splitting the time between Lucerne and Zurich and I don't see the value of the Swiss Travel Pass so I won't default to Rigi because of that. Does anyone have strong opinions on either one to help convince me. So far from my research I don't believe we can go wrong with either one, but I'd rather not just flip a coin.
Posted by
Chicago
3340 posts
I have gone up to Rigi 3 times and Pilatus 0 times. So, Rigi would be my choice. I just love the boat and train combo. Plus, you have the Spring wildflowers. I’m not sure why, but Pilatus just does not appeal to me. But, like you said, there is no bad choice here.
Posted by
San Diego, California
5906 posts
I lean towards Rigi , maybe because of the beautiful one hour boat ride to Vitnau, where one picks up the cogwheel train. And of course, you can also use the gondola for coming down, (or up.) and catch the boat at Weggis. However, I can't argue against Pilatus . Both were a half day adventure for us.
And- I'd also recommend Stanserhorn, which includes the Cabrio Open Air cable car, which is closer to Lucerne, about 45 minutes total to the summit (short train and cable car.) . It is nice to go up for the sunset and a drink, and food is available. This adventure doesn't take much time, and you could easily do Stanserhorn at the end of the day, and either Rigi or Pilatus in the morning. Stanserhorn is completely covered by the STP, as is the trip to Rigi.
In my mind, each summit has its own own personality, and I can't get enough of Swiss peaks. Perhaps watching some u-tube videos can help you, but I agree, you have no wrong decision, so enjoy this beautiful area. Safe travels.
Posted by
Chicago
3340 posts
Here’s a crazy idea, with a Saver Day Pass, you could see Rigi in the morning and Stanserhorn in the late afternoon. Both trips would be covered 100% with the Pass and no reservations needed. That would be a fantastic day. :-)
https://www.sbb.ch/en/tickets-offers/tickets/day-passes/saver-day-pass.html
Posted by
Chicago
3340 posts
I see Pat and I had a similar idea. :-)
As you mentioned, the Swiss Travel Pass is probably not worth it for such a short trip, but i do think the Saver Day Pass would provide some cost savings, even if just for Rigi.
Posted by
The Heartland USA
9096 posts
It's all about the weather up on top. Our choice was based on what the webcams told us each day. We didnt decide until the day we went up Pilatus.
Posted by
Minneapolis
95 posts
There are a lot of factors affecting ones opinion of each attraction. Look at the Swiss tourism information and preview each on YouTube to see what best fits you. Depending on weather, Titlus may be an option if the others are fogged in.