I'm looking for some advice. My family and I will be in Zurich only one day and really want to see the Alps!! I've looked at day tours but they all leave before our arrival time. How difficult is it to do on our own? I believe our hotel is near the train station and I'm a pretty savvy traveler. Any suggestions on the closest mountain to visit? Any advice or directions would be appreciated.
Posted by
Green Bay
22082 posts
You absolutely do not need a tour. You can get close to the Alps in Luzern, which is 50 minutes away by train. Another 50 minutes with a train to Engelberg and you will be in the Alps.
Posted by
Nashville, TN
852 posts
Yes, the closest options are around Luzern. A trip up to Rigi, Pilatus or Titlis are typical options. See SBB.ch/en for routes and times.
Posted by
Switzerland
3 posts
If you know your way around train stations, you'll be fine taking a trip just on your own by train, no tour needed. Mind you though, trains are considered expensive even by Swiss standards, so the possibility to choose totally flexible comes at a price.
Luzern is famous for its views and is one hour by train.
You could also hop on a train to Chur (direct from Zurich), change there and e.g. go to Davos - ca. 2.5h in total.
Or go to Thun or Interlaken (the latter is ca. 2h from Zurich, Thun somewhat less, both require changing in Bern).
Swiss trains are usually pretty much on time and reliable.
Check out ticket options - depending on what you choose, a one day travel card may be the better. Standard priced Swiss train tickets are valid one day, this is helpful if you want to keep your options open. If you're willing to decide on a specific train ahead of time, you may be able to get discounted tickets.
Maybe this page https://www.sbb.ch/en/tickets-offers/tickets/guests-abroad/inspiration.html provides some inspiration on possible 1-day itineraries.
Have fun exploring :)
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you so much to all who responded! Much appreciated!