day tours zurich

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Zurich

Day trips from zurich.

• Zurich to Lucerne
• Zurich to Engelberg
• Zurich to Interlaken
• Zurich to Schaffhausen
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
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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. Mount Titlis and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich

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

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

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

9. Heidiland and Liechtenstein Tour from Zurich

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

11. Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich

12. Lucerne Day Tour from Zurich

13. Black Forest and Rhine Falls Day Trip from Zurich

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

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

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

17. 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg

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

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

20. Mt Titlis Glacier Paradise Tour from Zurich With Lucerne

21. Day Trip to Lucerne and Mount Stanserhorn Including CabriO Cable Car Ride

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

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

24. Zürich City Sightseeing Tour with Cruise, Lindt Home of Chocolate

25. Jungfraujoch (Private Tour)

26. Grindelwald First - Top of Adventure from Zurich

27. Natural Wonders of Switzerland: Private Day Tour from Zurich

28. Small group tour to Schilthorn & Interlaken from Zurich (KTZ362)

29. Adventure to Mount Pilatus Gold and Silver tour

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

What travelers are saying.

• Steven S 4 contributions 0 4.0 of 5 bubbles Incredible area, very scenic even with the rain. Would love to see area on a sunny day Glad we went, area is incredible. Wish there could have been some transportion from train station to bus pick up. Weather was not good and it made it unpleasant to walk the long distance to the bus. Would have been good to have had a bus to wait in while we waited for our bus, raining constantly. Semi easy to navigate however again, lots of walking envolved, it would be nice to alleviate some of this. Read more Review of: Swiss Villages Grindelwald and Interlaken Day Trip from Zurich Written April 25, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Zurich Highlights Tour With Cruise and Lindt Home of Chocolate
• Mount Titlis and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich
• Zurich Tour: 6 hours on shore, on water, in the air!
• Jungfraujoch Day Trip from Zurich: Swiss Alps & Bernese Oberland
• Swiss Villages Grindelwald and Interlaken Day Trip from Zurich
• Myswisspanorama
• Swiss Epic Tours
• Swiss Private Tour
• Der Nachtwanderer
• Swissdaytours Mark Huggenberger
• Best of Switzerland Tours

Home » Destinations

20 Best Zurich day trips

• Eastern Switzerland
• Zürich Region

• Last Updated: 25 Feb 2023
• By Tanya, Founder of Swiss Family Fun

If you buy something through a link here, we may earn a commission. See our disclosure policy . Note that p rices and opening times may change without notice.

If you are visiting Zurich or live here and need to entertain guests, here are our favorite day trips from Zürich with options for all ages and abilities. I’ve included mountain viewpoints, scenic hikes, city tours, cultural activities, and fun excursions for kids.

Our family has lived in Zurich since 2005 and has done everything on this list multiple times. This is my go-to list when planning activities for our visitors. I hope you find it helpful.

Impressive mountain viewpoints

Hikes in the swiss alps, history & culture, fun for kids.

Note: Prices were updated in Oct 2023. Prices and opening times may change without notice.

The mountains in this section are popular destinations for tourists and locals. So during summer season, we suggest going early in the day and, if possible, on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds.

These outings are rather expensive, but remember you are paying for cable cars and trains that take you directly to the view without all the work of climbing up the mountain. Most of these mountains offer a 50% discount on cable car tickets if you have a Swiss Travel Pass , SBB Half-fare or GA. Make sure to show your pass purchasing your tickets.

Learn more: Budget Travel Tips for Switzerland

1. Ebenalp Aescher Cliff Restaurant

I’ll bet you’ve seen a picture of Berggasthaus Aescher before. Now Instagram famous, this unique mountain restaurant is built into the side of the cliffs near Appenzell. This was our family’s very first Swiss mountain experience after moving here and I’ll never forget it!

It’s pretty easy to access by first riding the Ebenalp cable car up the mountain. Then a short walk down through a cave and around the cliffs on a fenced wooden walkway leading to the restaurant. On the way you pass an old hermit’s hut and open air chapel, aka Wildkirchli, where you can learn about the history of this area. 

The views from the patio tables are fantastic, with Mt Säntis and other impressive Alpstein peaks in the distance. No reservations here and it can get very crowded on weekends and sunny summer days. So best to go a bit early to beat the rush.

From the restaurant, there is a trail leading down to the Seealpsee, a beautiful alpine lake. However, there have been many deaths on this trail (five in 2022), so we only suggest it for experienced hikers with proper equipment who are comfortable with risk ( see trail info ). Alternatively, you can reach the Seealpsee by walking up the service road near the cable car parking and bus stop. 

Learn more: How to visit Berggasthaus Aescher Cliff Restaurant

Quick info:

• From Zurich: 1hr30 by car, 2hr10 by train
• Cost: Cable car return ticket :  Adult CHF 34, Child CHF 14, under 6 free
• Open: best May to Oct
• Website: www.ebenalp.ch

2. Mount Rigi

When hosting visitors, Mount Rigi is usually our first choice for a Swiss mountain experience. Although we slightly prefer the drama of Mt Pilatus (next on the list), Rigi has the classic green alpine meadows and better hiking for casual hikers and families. Rigi also feels less crowded even in peak tourist season, because there’s more room for people to spread out. But both are great!

As locals, we usually just directly to the base of mountain and catch the cogwheel mountain train to the top, which is the fastest route from Zurich. But when we have visitors, we always do the Rigi Classic Round Trip , starting with a boat ride from Lucerne to the mountain. It’s so much more fun and absolutely gorgeous.

Once you reach the mountain, you ride a cogwheel train to the top, where you can stroll to different viewpoints along the cliffs (safely behind a fence!). There is a restaurant at the top with a big outdoor terrace and lounge chairs for relaxing. 

In summer, we highly recommend the hiking along the easy Panorama Trail , which can adjusted from 1 to 8 km depending on your energy level. The best version of this hike includes a gorgeous cliff walk built into the rock. In winter, even non-skiers can enjoy the snowy landscape by walking on the groomed snowy trails or sledding a few km down the mountain on prepared routes.

Learn more: Mt Rigi article

• From Zurich: 40 mins to Rigi train / or 45 mins to Lucerne to catch boat – see Rigi on map
• Cost 2023: Rigi train only Adult CHF 78 / round trip from Lucerne – Adult CHF 123 / discount with Swiss transit passes
• Open: best May to Oct / open year round
• Website: www.rigi.ch

3. Mt. Pilatus

If you are only in Switzerland for a short time, Pilatus would be my top pick because you get so much variety in one outing. Our favorite way to visit is on the Pilatus Golden Round Trip , which includes a boat ride from Lucerne city, super steep cogwheel mountain train to the top, and cable car down the other side of the mountain. 

At the top, you can safely enjoy the views from the large observation deck perched between rocky peaks, overlooking Lake Lucerne and many mountains. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Eiger many miles away in the Jungfrau Region.

If you like to hike and aren’t afraid of heights, we definitely recommend doing one of the three short hikes to higher viewpoints. Our favorite is the cliff walk trail to the Tomlishorn peak viewpoint, about 3 km each way. This peak is higher than the Pilatus observation deck, so you get an entirely different perspective of the whole area. 

For more excitement, we always stop at the middle station to ride a 1350m summer toboggan run , fun for both adults and kids. If you have lots of time, we also love the adventure ropes course in the forest with ziplines and free fall jumps.

For this excursion, you should plan for about six hours and get an early start, catching the boat around 9am. If you have less time, you can ride the cable car there and back with a return ticket .

Learn more: 10 Tips for visiting Mt Pilatus

• From Zurich: about 40 mins by car or train – see Pilatus on map
• Cost: cable car return ticket Adult CHF 78 / golden round trip Adult CHF 110
• Open: May to Oct with lake cruise / year round via cable cars
• Website: www.pilatus.ch

4. Mount Titlis

If you want to see snow in summer, the best choice near Zurich is Mount Titlis, which has a glacier at the top, so you can play in the snow year round. 

To get there, it’s a lovely drive or train ride to the quaint village Engelberg, nestled between many mountains. Then you ride cable cars up to 3238m (10623 ft), where you’ll find a large complex with viewing platforms inside and out.

We suggest starting your visit by walking through the ice tunnels built into the glacier. It’s a chilly walk, so definitely bring your jacket. Then a brief walk across the snow so you can cross the highest suspension bridge in Europe, aka the Titlis Cliff Walk. In summer, you can even sled on innertubes down a prepared route that keeps you safely on the mountain.

On the way back down, you should definitely stop at the Trübsee middle station to visit the alpine gorgeous lake. If you feel like walking, there’s a short and easy trail around the lake , possible in summer and winter. In summer, the trail has fun activities for kids, a large playground, and big air jump into inflated bouncy pillows.

For a full day excursion, you might enjoy this popular Titlis day trip from Zurich , which includes a tour of Lucerne, Titlis cable car tickets, and your train tickets there and back.

Learn more: See our Mt Titlis tips .

• From Zurich: 40 mins by car, 50 mins by bus
• Cost: Titlis cable car return ticket Adult CHF 96
• Open: glacier viewpoint open year round, summer hiking June to Oct
• Website: www.titlis.ch

Famous mountains farther afield

If you are only staying in Zurich, you can still do day trips to see the most famous Swiss mountains: the Matterhorn and the Eiger. These destinations are about 3 hours each way from Zurich, by train or car. But the journey is so beautiful, I consider that part of the fun and not a waste at all. So if you don’t mind a long day, here are some options for you.

5. Zermatt Gornergrat

If you catch the 7am train from Zurich, you can be in Zermatt as early as 10am with only one connection. My favorite outing in Zermatt is riding up the Gornergrat mountain railway to a viewpoint over the impressive Gorner glacier with the Matterhorn also in view. Then ride the train one stop down to the Riffelsee lake pictured here and take the best selfie ever. 

If possible, I really recommend doing at least a short hike from the Riffelsee a little farther down the mountain. I describe all the hiking options in my Gornergrat Riffelsee Trail post . 

6. Grindelwald & Jungfraujoch

The Jungfrau Region near Interlaken is one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland. If you can, I recommend staying a few days in this region so you can properly experience the full of it. But it’s totally doable as a day trip from Zurich if necessary. I’ve done it many times with my own family and with visitors.

If you only have one day in the region, a popular choice is traveling to Grindelwald, then riding a cable car and mountain train to the Jungfraujoch observatory. From the “Top of Europe,” you can see the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the alps at about 22 km (but sadly shrinking quite rapidly). The Jungfraujoch has a variety of amusements including an ice cave and sledding on the glacier in summer.

Learn more in my Jungfraujoch post .

Since this is an expensive outing, I don’t recommend it that often because there are many other wonderful outings that cost much less. But everyone I’ve talked to raves about it. After 17 years visiting us in Switzerland, I finally took my dad there last summer and after the visit, he said “Everyone should go here! It’s absolutely amazing!”

You can book each leg of the journey separately or book a convenient Zurich day trip to Jungfraujoch package that includes all the elements. 

So you don’t get overwhelmed, I’ve picked just three of my favorites hikes near Zurich to get you started. I have a variety of difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone. For more ideas, see the Most Spectacular Hikes near Zurich  and Easy hikes near Zurich for Beginners .

These hikes are best done from late June to early October, but check the relevant websites for exact opening times. Conditions may vary if snow stays late in the alps.

7. Flumserberg Alpine Flora Trail (easy)

This super easy and short trail is my first choice for visitors that never hike, have mobility issues or very small children. You get all the beauty and charm of the alps with very minimal effort. If my 85 year old grandmother can do this trail, so you can you!

This trail is super easy, just 2 km around a little mountain peak, with no up and down. The path is smooth dirt and gravel, possible with strollers and wheelchairs. Along the way you can rest on benches and loungers if necessary.

The Flumserberg area has excellent train connections to Zurich, making it one of the easiest and fastest mountains to reach near Zurich. Our favorite time to hike there is mid July to early August when the wildflowers are out in force and green alpine meadows stretch in every direction.

If you want to walk a little farther, you can continue along the ridge on the Geological theme trail, described in my post linked below. 

See trail map and directions for  Flumserberg Alpine Flora Trail

• From Zurich:  1hr15 by car or train •  See on map
• Hike: 40 mins • 2 k loop • 80m up & down
• Cost: Adult CHF 32, children under 12 free

8. Stoos Ridgeline (medium)

Even though dramatic ridge hike has become quite popular in recent years, I still love it and hike it almost every summer. Although this trail is only 4 km and is not terribly difficult, it does have a lot of up and down and steep slopes off the sides without barriers. So this trail is best done by experienced hikers with sturdy hiking shoes and good fitness level. 

To each the trail, you start by riding the steepest funicular train in the world, whisking you up to an idyllic alpine village in just a few minutes. Then a chair lift up to the ridge, where you will enjoy views over the cliffs down to Lake Lucerne for the next 90 mins or so.

The trail ends at the Fronalpstock viewpoint, which non-hikers can reach with a chair lift (also in winter). From there, you can safely admire the view from a fenced observation deck, restaurant terrace, and a safely enclosed picnic area with a playground for children. If you took the easy way up, you can still take a short stroll along the cliffs on the easy panorama loop trail . 

Learn more: Stoos Ridgeline Hike

• From Zurich: 45 mins by car, 1h10 by train/bus
• Hike: 2 hours • 4.5 km • 290m up, 300m down
• Cost: mountain lifts Adult CHF 50 / discount with Swiss transit passes

9. Pizol Five Lakes

For a fitness challenge and gorgeous scenery, the popular hike at Pizol is a perfect choice. You start by riding a gondola and two chair lifts high up the mountain to reach the first lake and a mountain hut.

From here, the first climb begins to reach the lake shown below in about an hour. Then the trail goes down, up, down, a few times as you visit three more beautiful lakes scattered along an impressive mountainous landscape. I suggest this for hikers with good fitness and kids ages 8+ as it takes experience and endurance to complete it. 

Pizol is very easy to reach from Zurich by car or train, since the gondola leaves from the valley near the freeway. No curvy narrow mountain roads to reach this one. This hike is extremely popular, so you will not be alone on the trail, with big hiking groups constantly streaming by both directions. But we still love it. 

Learn more: Pizol Five Lakes Hike

• From Zurich: 1 hour by car, 1h10 by train/bus
• Hike: 4.5 hours • 10 km • 440m up, 590m down
• Cost: mountain lifts Adult CHF 46 / discount with Swiss transit passes

10. Lindt Home of Chocolate

The closest chocolate factory to Zurich is Lindt Home of Chocolate. It has a beautiful tour and interactive museum, with an immense amount of information about bean to bar chocolate production and the history of chocolate, particularly in Switzerland. 

The audio guide is packed full of information, more than the average person may want to consume in one visit. Happily, they provide a children’s version of the audio guide, which is more entertaining. There are also a few games and activities for kids scattered through the tour.

We love the chocolate tasting stations through the museum, including chocolate fountains and a dispenser where you have to guess the chocolate flavor. They also offer chocolate making workshops, which are particularly popular for holidays like Christmas and Easter where you make the signature bear and bunny shaped chocolates.

If you are visiting Zurich, you can book a Zurich City Tour that includes a lake cruise to Lindt and the chocolate factory tour. This would be a fun and efficient use of your time in the city.

See our full review of  Lindt Home of Chocolate

• From Zurich: 15 mins by car, 20 mins by train/bus – see on map
• Open:  daily 10:00 – 18:00 (closed on some holidays)
• Cost:  CHF 15/adult, CHF 10/child aged 8-15, under 8 free.  Buy tickets here  
• Website:  www.lindt-home-of-chocolate.com

11. Appenzell Show Dairy

Since cheese is integral to Swiss culture, I suggest visiting the Appenzeller Show Dairy, the closest dairy near Zurich. Our family enjoyed the multimedia museum where you learn about the history and culture of cheese making in the Appenzeller region. They have lots videos, games, and interactive elements that kids will enjoy.

Every day until 15:00, you can also observe cheese being made on the factory floor. We watched the cheese making for about 45 mins around lunchtime and it was pretty exciting, as far as cheese making goes. We saw them unmold freshly pressed cheese rounds, then fill up the empty molds with new curds and prepare it for pressing.

With your entrance ticket, you receive a small box of cheese to sample, which is a nice extra. At the restaurant, you can eat fondue and other traditional cheese dishes.

Our kids also appreciated the outdoor playground with a swing, slides and climbing wall. If you are particularly interested in history, you can buy a combo ticket with the Appenzeller Folklore Museum next door.

Learn more in our review of Appenzell Cheese Dairy  

• From Zurich: 1h15 by car, 1h35 by trail/bus –  see on map
• Cost 2023: Adult CHF 12, Child CHF 7, under 6 free
• Open: year round daily 9:00 to 17:30
• Website: www.schaukaeserei.ch

12. Lenzburg Castle

The best castle near Zürich is Schloss Lenzberg, one of the oldest and more important hilltop castles in Switzerland with a history dating back to the 12th century. You can tour many rooms inside the castle, with rooms set up to show what it would be like to live in the castle in different eras.

We appreciate the many interactive multimedia exhibits, which make learning fun. If you are visiting with children, they will love the children’s play area at the top of the castle. It has a dress-up clothes, craft area, wooden castle to act out sword fights, and a toddler corner for weary parents. This castle is also home to Fauchi, an animatronic dragon, which terrified my 2 year old, but is fun for the older ones.  

For lunch, there’s a small cafeteria with a lovely outside garden and dragon picture books for the kiddies to read while they wait for the food. Or you can picnic in the spacious courtyard which hosts many parties. The castle grounds are lovely to stroll and also have an outdoor play area for kids with play houses.

If you really love castles, I also suggest a longer day trip down to the Bellizona Castles in southern Switzerland. These are a protected UNESCO World Heritage site and very impressive. Learn how to visit the Bellinzona Castles .

See our full review of Lenzburg Castle

• From Zurich: 30 mins by car, 40 mins by train/bus – see on map
• Cost 2023: CHF 14/adult, CHF 8/child aged 6-16, under 6 free
• Open: April to October / Tues – Sun 10:00 to 17:00
• Website: www.schloss-lenzburg.ch

The Swiss alps are full of fun activities for kids, including theme trails, alpine coasters, mountain scooters, and climbing parks. Below are a few of our family favorites near Zurich. See also Best hikes for kids near Zurich .

13. Toggenburg Tone Trail

Many Swiss mountains have theme trails for kids, with activities scattered along the way to keep them happy and motivated. Near Zurich, our favorite is the Toggenburg Tone Trail , which has a musical theme.

Every few minutes along the trail, you’ll find an interactive musical activity where kids can play and make lots of noise. Since kids can often see or hear the next music station ahead, they are motivated to keep walking to see what’s next.

We usually spend about four hours on the trail, playing at every station along the way and grilling our lunch. The trail has a few short uphill sections, but not difficult. They have a stroller version of trail, with a few diversions off the main trail. 

Learn more: Toggenburg Tone Trail

• From Zurich: 1hr30 by car and 2 hours by train
• Hike: easy • 2+ hours • 6 km • 80m up, 240m down
• Cost: mountain lifts Adult CHF 32, Child CHF 18.50 / discount with Swiss transit passes

14. Pizol Heidi Trail

If you want a Swiss theme on the trail, the Pizol Heidi trail is fun choice choice for families. This easy loop trail in the mountains has several stations where children can play and search for clues to solve a puzzle. 

Along the way, there is a barefoot path, hammock forest, playground and restaurant. The kids get a little trail passport that they stamp in the mouth of the wooden goats along the trail. This trail is only 4 km and is possible with strollers. 

Learn more: Pizol Heidi Trail

• From Zurich: 1hr10 by car, 1hr30 by train/bus
• Hike: easy • 1hr30 • 4.1 km • 120m up & down
• Cost: mountain lifts Adult CHF 36, Child CHF 18 / discount with Swiss transit passes

15. Elm Theme Trail & Mountain Scooters

Elm is a beautiful mountain resort with a fun theme trail around the story of “Giants in the Forest.” The gondola takes you to a fun play area with trampolines and gorgeous mountain views. Then along the short trail, there is a an obstacle course, small suspension bridge, giant xylophone, an over-sized picnic table and forest kitchen, and much more. 

The walking path is wide and smooth, possible with strollers. Much of the trail is in the forest, so it’s great for hot summer days. After the hike, we suggest that you skip the gondola and instead ride down on big wheel kick scooters or low rider go-carts. 

Learn more: Elm Giants Forest Trail

• From Zurich: 1hr20 by car, 1hr50 by train/bus
• Hike: easy • 1hr30 • 2.6 km • 50m up, 60m down
• Cost: mountain lifts Adult CHF 18, Child CHF 9 / no discount with Swiss transit passes

See also: Best mountain scooters in Switzerland

16. Flumserberg alpine coasters & climbing park

If you need a little more excitement, Flumserberg has a 1.2 km alpine coaster with a fixed rail car. You can either ride a chair lift or hike to reach the coaster. We usually use this as a treat after the Flumserberg 4 Peak hike in the mountains above the coaster. 

See more Swiss mountain coasters

In another part of the resort, they have the CLIIMBER ropes course with a wide variety of obstacles and varying levels of difficulty. We like the flexibility of the regular courses, which allow you to pick and choose your obstacles instead of completing a full pre-determined course.

The mini-course for kids 4+ has an “always on” safety harness, making safer and easier to use for the small ones. Learn more about the Flumserberg Ropes Course .

If you like strolling cities and villages, there are a lot of nice options near Zurich. Here are a few places we often take our visitors.

17. Stein am Rhein & Rhine Falls

The Rhine falls are one of the most popular tourist destinations near Zurich, the highest volume falls in Europe. We usually combine this outing with visiting the medieval city, Stein am Rhein, just a few minutes up river from the falls. 

At the falls, you can get close to the raging waters from a stairway and platforms built along the rocks at the side of the falls. For a real thrill, you can also ride a boat to the center of the falls and climb up a tall rock as shown in the pic here (boat runs April to October). Not quite Niagara falls, but still pretty fun.

Learn more about visiting Rhine Falls .

Stein am Rhein is a tiny jewel on the banks of the Rhine river with a long history. It looks exactly like what you imagine Europe should look like, with cobblestone pedestrian-only streets, half-timbered construction, ornate window treatments, and elaborate paintings decorating many buildings. It’s small, so stroll slowly savoring all the details then settle into an outdoor café for refreshments.

If you are going by car, it’s quite easy to find with good signage and large parking lots at both destinations. If you are traveling by public transportation, you can take a train to the falls and the village. But you might find it more convenient to book a scenic bus tour from Zurich that visits both locations and includes your entrance to the falls viewing area and a village guided tour.

• Rhine falls: 40 mins by car, 1h10 by train – see on map
• Stein am Rhein: 50 mins by car, 1h15 by train – see on map

18. Rapperswil with Zurich lake cruise

Rapperswil is a small historic town at the southern end of Lake Zurich. You can reach Rapperwsil by car, train, or lake cruise from Zurich, which is our favorite. For a longer day trip, you can book a scenic bus tour that visits Rapperswil, as well as alpine areas in Heidiland and Liechtenstein.

Rapperswil has a cute old town center, picturesque castle on a hill, and a lovely lakeside promenade with lots of cafes, pizza, and ice cream. The self-guided walking tour through town is short, but interesting, with beautiful views from the castle terrace above the town.

Our kids enjoyed the activity path along the castle walls and big playground with grassy fields below the castle. For more views, you can wander the long wooden walkway built into the lake, a great place to observe birds.

Learn more: Rapperswil & Lake Ferry Ride

• From Zurich: 40 mins by car or train, 2 hours by boat – see on map
• Cost: boat ride one way Adult CHF 26, Child CHF 12 / discount with Swiss transit passes

19. Lucerne

Our top choice for city tours is Lucerne, which is an easy drive or direct train ride from Zurich. Lucerne has a charming old town with an fascinatingly history, plus gorgeous views of the Swiss alps across the lake.

From the tourist info at the train station, you can pick up a free map with a self-guided walking tour. If possible, we suggest doing a guided walking tour as the history of this city is so interesting and more compelling when told by an entertaining guide. Here are some popular tour options:

• On Wednesdays and Saturdays, Luzern Tourism offers a 90 min guided walking tour .
• With kids, you can do a scavenger hunt walking tour with audio guide
• Less walking with a TukTuk city tour

Note that some of the highlights, like the city wall and Lion Monument, are a bit of walk from the town center. We think the they are worth the extra effort, but maybe skip them if you are traveling with very small children. If you like walking, we suggest ending your tour by walking down the lakeside promenade as far as your legs will go, then ride the bus back to the city center.

See our self-guided Lucerne walking tour

• From Zurich by car: 45 mins / parking at Parkhaus Altstadt – Baselstrasse 4, 6003 Luzern
• From Zurich by train: 41 mins to Luzern, Bahnhof

I always take my visitors to Zug, a small city on a lake overlooking the mountains. From Zurich, it’s a very short drive or train ride to Zug, so perfect for a short outing if your guests are low on energy.

We usually start by strolling through the historic center, where you’ll want to take lots of photos. The streets are narrow and winding, with lots of cute storefronts and interesting architectural details. Then we get gelato and stroll along the lake admiring the view.

If you are with kids, you might like the Sato Code trail , an outdoor escape room that has you look for clues and solve puzzles as you wander the town. My teen boys loved racing around trying to beat the best time. There’s also a scavenger hunt walking tour that includes more historical information about the city as you walk.

• From Zurich by car: 30 mins / parking at Parkhaus Vorstadt – Schmidgasse 3, 6300 Zug
• From Zurich by train: 21 mins to Zug
• TAGS: Zurich Summer

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2 Responses

this was a very helpful read. My husband and 3 adult children (20,19,16) will be in Zurich December 26 for 4 nights. we are interested in playing in the snow – maybe not skiing as we have never skiied before! do you have any other tips for wintertime?

You might find my winter posts helpful: https://swissfamilyfun.com/winter-in-switzerland/

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Hi! I’m Tanya and our family has been living & hiking in Switzerland since 2005, collecting dozens of fun hikes and activities for all ages and abilities. More about us…

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Tours in Zurich

Zurich Old Town Walking Tour

Zürich Food Tour

Züri Bar Quest - Scavenger Hunt Through Zurich's Bars

Treichler Cherry Cake Guided Tour

Day Trip to the Jungfraujoch 8 am

Day Trip to Mt. Pilatus 10 am

Make Chocolate Figures and Lollipops Yourself

City Tour of Zurich by Private Bus

Christmas Tour with the Night Watchman

Day Trip to Heidiland and Liechtenstein

Day Trip to Kleine Scheidegg 8.30 am

Zurich Old Town Walking & Bus Tour

City Tour Through Zurich by Bus

Half-Day Trip to the Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein

Guided Culinary Tour by a Landsknecht

Interactive Chocolate Tour at the Lindt Home of Chocolate

Guided Highlight Tour at the FIFA Museum

Reformation in Zurich Tour

City Tour by eTukTuk With a Christmas Ambiance

City Tour by eTukTuk

City Tour and Train Trip to the Uetliberg

City Tour by Bus with Audioguide

Day Trip to the Jungfraujoch 8.30 am

City Tour and Boat Trip to the Lindt Home of Chocolate

Day Trip to Mt. Titlis 9.30 am

Make Your Own Chocolate Bars at Home of Chocolate

City Tour: Hike with Flaming Torches

Day Trip to Lucerne 10 am

Guided Tour of the FIFA Museum with Pinball Challenge

Einsiedeln – Abbey Tour

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Home » Europe » Switzerland » 13 Breathtaking Day Trips from Zurich

13 Breathtaking Day Trips from Zurich

Switzerland is the place of dreams and it’s largest city Zurich is no less than picture-perfect. This stunning city has a vibrant cultural history that makes it an excellent bucket list destination as well as being set in gorgeous scenery. From the breathtaking snow-capped peaks of the Alps to pretty postcard villages to the serene lakes and stunning waterfalls, Zurich is the centre of all the incredible places to see in Switzerland.

Zurich also has a super-organised public transport system like many other central cities. It makes Zurich a convenient base for venturing out on excursions to nearby towns and places in the country. You can easily hop on a train or bus and be off on a day trip to visit mountains, quaint villages, and other unforgettable spots.

We have a handy list here of some of the most exciting and relaxing day trips from Zurich. Let’s go mofos!

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Getting Around Zurich and Beyond

Half-day trips from zurich, full-day trips from zurich, final thoughts.

Several day trips from Zurich can be easily done using Zurich’s own public transport. As efficient as it is within the city, it is also very convenient to reach the rest of the country when you’re backpacking around Switzerland .

Get the Zurich Card for convenient travelling within the city. Choose between the 24-hr card (27 CHF) and the 72-hr card (53 CHF).

There are lots of things to do in Zurich , so the chances are you’ll want to pick up a multi-day pass.

For day trips out of the city, get a Swiss Travel Pass , valid for 3 to 15 days, starting from 232 CHF and a maximum up to 513 CHF. This pass gives you unlimited transport on the entire Swiss network (buses, trains and boats) and free entry to most museums.

How you get around Zurich and beyond is up to you:

• Walking – Zurich is another perfectly walkable city: many of the best places to visit in Zurich can be covered on foot.
• Bike – Zurich offers free bike rentals with a deposit of 20CHF. Keep your bike helmet on!
• Single ticket cost starts from 2.70  CHF
• Day pass (24 hrs) cost starts from 5.40 CHF
• Six-day pass cost starts from 26.40 CHF
• Multi-journey pass (good for 6 trips) starts from 13.20 CHF
• Car rental – Convenient if you plan to drive to your day trip destinations. Not suitable for getting around in the city.
• Taxi/Uber – A big nope. Switzerland is expensive enough and taxis are super expensive and a mega hassle.

Finished with your Zurich itinerary but looking to make the most of your time in Switzerland? No worries! Let’s see some enticing half-day trips from Zurich that will make your stay in Switzerland worthwhile.

Rheinfall (Rhine Falls)

Rheinfall is an easy and fun day trip from Zurich. The River Rhine flows through a beautiful valley and plunges down a limestone ledge as the Rhine Falls, officially the largest and mightiest falls in Europe. The Rhine Falls are a treat to watch and exploring the area is awesome too.

So put on your waterproof gear and take a boat ride to the Rhine Falls basin, which are the intriguing rocks in the middle of the river. The ride downstream is exhilarating, as are the magnificent views! The spectacle of the Rheinfall is best seen from two other vantage points. Take an elevator from Laufen Castle to a viewing platform that gives an unobstructed view. After that ride out to Schlossi Worth, a tiny island with an excellent restaurant and café and a terrace overlooking the Falls. It’s an ideal place to have a snack with a view!

Head over to the Adventure Park (aptly named!) at Rhine Falls with its superb rope park if you’re feeling adventurous. Grab a rope and glide from tree to tree on several courses and paths with spectacular views of the Rhine Falls.

How to get there: From Zurich, take the S9 train to Neuhausen Rheinfall station. Journey time is just under an hour.

Suggested Trip: Rhine Falls Tour From Zurich

This delightful medieval town is bursting with roses. Yes, you read it right: roses. The picturesque and colourful Rapperswil lies along the upper end of Lake Zurich. Aptly dubbed the “Town of Roses,” Rapperswil is dotted with these lovely flowers around almost all of its public spaces. Its coat of arms also features roses!

Stroll along the narrow pedestrian streets in town and admire the traditional houses with window boxes full of … you guessed it – roses! Visit the historic old town which is an area that is well-preserved and protected from centuries ago. If you’re visiting between June and October, explore the rose gardens that grow more than 15,000 roses… unsurprisingly!

Rapperswil has its own castle too. Walk to the main square and up a hill to the ancient Castle. The scenery and views of the lake below are superb! When you’re down at the lake, walk on the long wooden boardwalks out along the lake and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. You can even take a swim or do stand-up paddling in the lake.

How to get there: From Zurich, take the S5 train to Rapperswil. It takes about half an hour. Alternatively, if you’re up for a more scenic ride, take a ferry boat from the downtown end of Lake Zurich.

Stein am Rhein

Tucked against Germany’s border and along the Rhine River is the small medieval town of Stein am Rhein. Built in the 3 rd century, Stein am Rhein has the feel and vibes of medieval Switzerland. The history and romantic atmosphere of the town make it the perfect half-day trip from Zurich.

Walk around the town to the main square Rathausplatz. Charming old buildings surround the town square, adorned with colourful frescoes and flower boxes filling their windows. Half-timbered houses line the main street: the houses are so well-preserved you’d think you were back in the Middle Ages. The whole town of Stein am Rhein is like a time capsule!

Visit the 11 th -century Hohenklingen Castle and its museum to learn about the colourful history of the town. The castle sits high above the town and offers incredible views. Afterwards, visit the Monastery of St. Gerogen, another well-preserved monastery complex. Browse the works of local artisans or grab a snack from the café. If you have spare time, enjoy cycling or boating along the Rhine.

How to get there: From Zurich, take a train to Stein am Rhein. It takes an hour and a half.

Suggested Trip: From Zurich to Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls

Zurich’s location is ideal for visiting the rest of the country, if you’re wondering where to stay in Switzerland to see the most during your trip, you can’t go far wrong here.

There is much to do and see beyond Zurich and day trips to these different places are fun and easy. So, get on a train and explore away!

Jungfraujoch and the Bernese Oberland

If you’re looking to combine nature with adventure, head on to Jungfraujoch. This popular day trip from Zurich is a treat to the eyes and soul with its gorgeous scenery including snow-capped peaks, green pastures and idyllic Alpine villages.

Better known as the “Top of Europe”, Jungfraujoch is the highest train station in Europe and a favourite of skiers and climbers. The train ride takes you up through breathtaking high Alpine scenery, icy wilderness, and swirling glaciers. The views are incredible! You’ll also observe the three famous peaks of Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger, right in the heart of the Bernese Oberland. Enjoy skiing and snowboarding, or just take a stroll in this winter wonderland, where the mountains are snow-capped all year round.

Jungfraujoch has a number of notable attractions. Explore the Ice Palace, carved inside a glacier with ice sculptures. There are restaurants and shops as well. Visit the Sphinx Observatory, which is an international research station. Ride the elevator up to the viewing decks and treat yourself to beautiful panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the most incredible train rides in Europe .

How to get there: From Zurich, take a 2-hr train to Interlaken. Then take another 2-hr train to Jungfraujoch. The total one-way travel time is about 4 hrs, but it’s totally worth it! Alternatively, hop on a guided tour.

Suggested Trip: Day Trip to Jungfraujoch

Grindelwald & Interlaken

Surrounded by the Bernese Alps and sitting at their foothills are the gorgeous duo of Grindelwald and Interlaken. With rolling green pastures dotted with waterfalls and streams, these towns are a gateway to the Jungfrau region. But we’re not going all the way up to Jungfraujoch here. We’re camping in the Bernese Oberland on this day trip from Zurich.

Named after the famous wizard Dumbledore’s arch-nemesis (just kidding!), Grindelwald is your ticket to experience the magnificent Swiss countryside. This charming alpine town is a favourite resort for adventure lovers. Have fun indulging in popular activities like skiing, sledding, zip-lining, mountain-climbing, and hiking. You can go in summer or winter – it’s awesome all year round!

Your next stop is Interlaken, also known as the adventure capital of Switzerland. Its location is perfect – between Lakes Thun and Brienz, amidst the breathtaking Alps. Take part in various adventure sports like canyoning and paragliding. There’s so much to do in Interlaken ! You can also visit some of the most stunning waterfalls, such as Trummelbach Falls and Reichenbach Falls. Go on a cable car ride for panoramic views of the valley. If you’re looking to go hiking in Switzerland then this is the place, just make sure to pack your boots !

How to get there: From Zurich Main Station, take a train to Interlaken via Bern. It takes around 2 hrs. Alternatively, go on an organized tour.

Suggested Trip: Day Tour to Grindelwald and Interlaken

Capital cities always have their aura and charm as the heart of the country. Switzerland’s capital Bern is unlike many others – it is serene, yet captivating. When you’re in Zurich, it makes perfect sense to make a day trip to Bern and experience all that it has to offer.

The city of Bern is perfect as a picture postcard. The cobblestone streets, quaint houses, and buildings from the 17 th -18 th centuries are nicely set with the Alps and Aare River as the backdrop. Start at Bern’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit Zytglogge Clock Tower, an astronomical clock from the 15 th century.  Walk on the street-front arcades and see the cellar shops, bars, fountains and the impressive Swiss Parliament Building.

Cross the Aare River and visit the different museums, like the Einstein Museum (the house where Einstein was born) and the Bern Historical Museum. Follow the river further and go up to the city’s Bear Pit, a park where bears, a symbol of Bern, are kept. From here go up to a viewpoint and have some of the city’s best views. If you want to see something different, check out the child eater of Bern statue!

How to get there:  From Zurich Main Station, take a train to Bern. The ride takes around an hour.

Winterthur is Switzerland’s sixth-largest city. It’s an absolute centre of culture and is home to some outstanding museums and art collections. Art and culture lovers will certainly enjoy this day trip from Zurich.

The Old Town of Winterthur has that old-world charm with its preserved streets and old houses. Check out the different architectural styles: from Moorish-Gothic style to early Baroque to Rococo style.  Visit the Fotomuseum, one of Europe’s major photography museums. The art museum of the Oskar Reinhart Collection has works of famous artists like Rembrandt, El Greco, and Rubens.

The Swiss Science Centre Technorama, or “Winti”, as the locals call it, hosts interesting events and exhibits on science and technology that appeal to all ages. Winterthur is also home to the country’s largest pedestrian-only old town. So have a stroll along the pastel-coloured and terracotta-tiled cafes and bars without breathing in fumes or hearing constant beeping!

How to get there: From Zurich Main Station, take a train to Winterthur Main Station. It takes less than half an hour.

Treat your eyes and soul with the magic of Lucerne. This day trip from Zurich is a delightful mix of medieval aura against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Lucerne is the perfect picture of an idyllic Swiss town and one of the most incredible places I’ve ever visited.

A short drive or train ride from Zurich lands you in the picturesque town of Lucerne. Lake Lucerne sits by the city centre, while the Reuss River runs along with the Old Town. Walk on the cobblestone streets as you explore the Old Town quarter. Several of Lucerne’s attractions are in the Old Town. See the bright old burgher’s houses and the little squares with fountains.  Check out the Lion Memorial and Kongress Zentrum, which is Lucerne’s performing arts centre.

Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is a sight to behold. This covered wooden bridge from the 14 th century houses more than a hundred historical paintings. The city walls are also worth going up to, as they offer amazing views. You can even have a boat ride on the beautiful lake!

Lucerne is one of our favourite destinations, with so many things to do and places to see. We’d recommend staying back for a day or two to relax and enjoy the city. Convenient and economical places would be the hostels around New Town. Try this superb hostel which has great views of Lake Lucerne or this interesting hotel that was once an old prison.

How to get there: From Zurich Main Station, take a train to Lucerne. It’s just under an hour away.

Mount Titlis

Take your pick between experiencing stunning mountain-top views and skiing down snowy slopes on this day trip from Zurich. Mt. Titlis is one of Switzerland’s most impressive mountains and also a popular ski field. So, grab your camera and warm gear and get ready for an exhilarating experience of a lifetime!

Snowsport enthusiast or not, you will have a wonderful time on Mt. Titlis. Rising above 3000 meters, Mt. Titlis offers incredible panoramic views of the Alps from its summit. Ride up the mountain on the TITLIS Rotair , the unique revolving cable car (and the first of its kind in the world) that revolves as you go up. Imagine going up a mountain with 360-degree views of the stunning mountain landscape all around you.

For thrills hike across the Titlis Cliff Walk, which is known to be Europe’s highest suspension bridge. Tucked between two rocky faces of the mountains and suspended 500 meters above the ground, it is an adrenaline rush you’ll want to experience! Then hop on to the Ice Flyer chairlift and marvel at the deep crevasses and glaciers below. Later on, walk through a 5000-year-old glacier in the Glacier Cave or slide down the Glacier Park snow slide. There’s so much to do at Mt. Titlis!

How to get there: From Zurich, take a train via Lucerne to Engelberg. It should take around 2 hrs.

Suggested Trip: Mount Titlis Day Tour from Zurich

Mount Pilatus

The mysterious Mt. Pilatus is full of folklore, superstition, and legends of giants and dragons. Add to that some breathtaking mountain landscape and the marvels of Swiss engineering and you have the perfect day trip to go on from Zurich.

Mt. Pilatus lies between the Lakes Lucerne, Zug, and Lauerz in central Switzerland. One of the best things about Mt. Pilatus is that it is accessible through a number of exciting excursions. Cogwheel railways, aerial gondolas, and cable cars make for thrilling rides up or down the mountain. Jump aboard the gondola at Kriens, Lucerne, and ride up to Kreinseregg. Savour the breathtaking scenery and then hop on a cable car and ride further up to the peak of Mt. Pilatus. The Dragon’s Ride, as it is popularly known, takes you more than 2000 meters up to the summit. Get those cameras out for the gram!

If you’re up for some cardio, you can hike at the top as well. There are several short trails at the summit leading to other peak points. When you’re done, make your way back down by cogwheel railway. One of the world’s steepest, this cogwheel train speeds down to the town of Alpnachstad. From here, round off your day trip with a scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne to Lucerne and then back to Zurich.

How to get there: From Zurich Main Station, take a train to Lucerne. It takes an hour. Then either take a bus to Kriens or a train to Alpnachstad. It takes less than half an hour.

Suggested Trip: Lucerne and Mt Pilatus Day Tour

For a taste of rural Alpine life, take this day trip from Zurich to Appenzell. This small town sure has its charm! It isn’t that popular and is kind of ‘undiscovered’, so it has all the more reason to be visited. Appenzell is right out of a picture postcard – with its bright and traditional Swiss houses, rolling green pastures and the mighty Alps in the backdrop.

Appenzell has kept to its farming traditions, so you’ll get to visit and see dairy farms still in action. Stop by some of the many shops in town and try the local baked goods and cheeses. The town produces the famous Appenzell cheese, so you’ll want to get some of that for home too. You’ve got to try Appenzeller Biberli too, it’s a tasty Swiss gingerbread. Visit the Museum of Appenzell and learn more about their culture, customs, and history.

Hiking is a popular activity in Appenzell. Several hills like the popular Saxer Luke, Hoher Kasten, and the Marwees offer breathtaking views of the region. These hills are actually mountains, so all you hiking enthusiasts are in for a real treat! Take the cable car up to Hoher Kasten and pop in the revolving restaurant while enjoying panoramic views of the Appenzell region.

How to get there:  From Zurich, take a train via Gossau to Appenzell. It takes a little over 2 hrs.

Suggested Trip: Appenzell Day Trip with Cheese Tasting

Basel is a wonderful cultural day trip from Zurich. The city’s location, bordering France and Germany, adds to its appeal as the cultural capital of Switzerland, while the world-famous ART Basel Festival draws in thousands of art and architecture lovers every year.

Spend the day taking a stroll on the cobbled streets of the beautiful ‘Alstadt’ (Old Town) in Grossbasel (Greater Basel). Visit the iconic red sandstone Town Hall in the Marktplatz in the middle of the Old Town. Walk to the Gate of Spalen, a magnificent tower gate of Basel’s old city walls that still stands. More sightseeing follows as you stop and admire the Basel Minster, the city’s impressive Gothic cathedral.

Basel is packed with history, but it also has a superb collection of modern and contemporary art at the Beyeler Foundation. Museums are aplenty, too. Don’t miss the Fine Arts Museum and the Natural History Museum.

How to get there:   From Zurich, take a train to Basel. It takes an hour.

Suggested Trip: For a fun experience, discover Basel with a local.

Chocolate and cheese – two of Switzerland’s trademark offerings – can be easily had through just a day trip from Zurich to Gruyeres… and I’m all about that! The journey to this small medieval town is a gastronomical and cultural one. Gruyeres is a delightful place you should not miss from its iconic castle to its museum and its traditional Swiss restaurants

Best known for Gruyere cheese, which is loved around the world, the town has many museums and workshops showcasing the process of cheese and chocolate-making (and tasting!) Visit La Maison du Gruyere, home to the famous cheese. Learn about the process and how it gets the peculiar Gruyere taste and stock up some treats to take back home.

If you’re a chocolate lover like myself, stop at La Maison Cailler, which is the oldest chocolate factory in Switzerland. Learn about the process of chocolate-making and treat yourself to an all-you-can-eat chocolate tasting. Yum!

Other highlights in Gruyere include its 13 th -century medieval castle. Then there’s the HR Giger Museum, which contains a creepy collection of artwork and sculptures from the Swiss artist who made special effects for the movie Alien.

How to get there: From Zurich, take a train to Gruyere. It usually takes a little above 2 hours.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Don’t Forget your Zurich Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Switzerland as a country is a natural wonder and Zurich is right at its centre. Once you visit you’ll fall in love with this incredible country and it might just be your new favourite destination in the world!

Zurich, meanwhile, is picture-perfect. Our favourite places around Zurich are Lake Zurich and storybook villages like Rapperswil. The mightiest waterfalls in Europe, the Rhine Falls, are also just a few hours away from the city. It’s an awesome experience boating on the River Rhine and experiencing the falls up close!

The Alps are, however, the major draw of the region. Snow-capped mountain peaks and ski resorts are a treat for all adventure lovers and outdoorsy types. The rides up the magnificent Mt. Jungfraujoch, Mt. Pilatus, or Mt. Titlis are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We love it and would want to go again and again!

Tell us if you’ve been on any of these day trips. We’d love to share notes! Bon Voyage and happy travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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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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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 2021 and updated April 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.

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Day trips Zurich - 26 Top Deals and Prices 2024

Zurich is very well connected to the rest of Switzerland by public transport, which is perfect if you’re looking to plan a day trip from Zurich. You have the option to visit other cities nearby, take a trip into the Alps, check out a lake or go for a hike. Whether you prefer guided tours for your day trips from Zurich over self guided trips by train, you will find something to meet your needs.

Activities and tickets

From Zurich: Day tour Jungfraujoch by bus and cogwheel train

On this day trip to the Jungfraujoch you will experience the glaciers and the peaks of the Bernese Alps up close. Discover the highest train station in Europe on the "Top of Europe" More details

From Zurich: Day trip to Grindelwald and Interlaken

Discover one of the most popular alpine regions of Switzerland on this bus tour from Zurich to the Bernese Oberland. Explore the villages of Interlaken and Grindelwald. More details

From Zurich: Adventure on Grindelwald First

An experience full of adventure. Venture to the summit circuit First Cliff Walk by Tissot, which leads across a 40-meter suspension bridge to an observation platform. More details

From Zurich: Half day bus tour to Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein

Visit the impressive Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe, in an afternoon by coach. Also stroll through the medieval town of Stein am Rhein. More details

From Zurich: Day trip to Grindelwald with ski course for beginners

Travel by coach from Zurich to the famous ski resort of Grindelwald. There, an experienced ski instructor will teach you how to ski in the beginner-friendly BodmiArena. More details

From Zurich: Day tour Titlis and Lucerne

Enjoy a trip to the Swiss Alps. A guide will lead you through Lucerne and to the top of Titlis, where many activities await you More details

From Zurich: Day trip snow fun Titlis and Lucerne

On this tour you have city sightseeing and sports activities in one. Explore the old town of Lucerne and glide on skis or snowtubes on the Titlis. More details

From Zurich: Day tour Engelberg and Lucerne

Experience the charming city of Lucerne and the typical Swiss alpine village Engelberg combined in one day trip. You will have plenty of free time for your own discoveries. More details

The city of Zurich is the economic and educational center of Switzerland. Located directly on Lake Zurich, the city offers everything you would expect from a cosmopolitan city, from a wide range of museums to a vibrant nightlife and numerous events to endless shopping opportunities. Despite its size, Zurich exudes charm in its extensive old town

• How to plan your perfect day trip from Zurich

Not only is Zurich the entry point for most people visiting Switzerland by plane, it’s also very well connected to the Swiss public transport system . You can reach every corner of the country by train within a maximum of 2-3 hours. With most major cities like Bern, Basel, St. Gallen, Lucerne or Chur even being only an hour away.

This makes Zurich incredibly attractive for everyone visiting Switzerland. On one hand, it’s the perfect location to spend a day or two to explore the city and its sights. But it also offers plenty of options if you’re looking to go on some day trips from Zurich to one of its many surrounding locations.

With a huge abundance of destinations and day trips to choose from, it’s not always easy to make a decision or to pick the right one. In this article, we’re going to help you get an overview of your options, which should take you one step closer to making that decision.

Which places can you visit on a day trip from Zurich?

If you’re staying in Zurich and plan to leave the city for a day to explore some other parts of Switzerland, you’ve got so many options to choose from. It all depends on what you’re interested in.

You can visit the Alps, explore a different city, go for a hike, cruise across a lake, visit a waterfall or even go on a scenic train ride. With Switzerland being quite small and having a fantastic public transport system, you can visit almost every corner in a day trip from Zurich.

If you’re planning on heading out by yourself, we recommend picking a place that can be reached within an hour from Zurich. This will give you enough time to spend at the destination of your choosing without having to spend too many hours on the train.

However, there are also several awesome guided day trips from Zurich that take you beyond this one-hour mark. These fully organised bus tours bring you to places that would be more stressful or sometimes even impossible to visit by yourself. But we’ll get to those later.

• Cities to visit on a day trip from Zurich by train

In this part, we’re going to focus on destinations that can be reached within an hour or even less by public transport. This way, you can jump on a train in the morning and explore the city all day long without having to rush back. Or even connect a city visit with a trip on a lake or a short hike?

By the way, if you’d like to know more about the Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss rail passes , we’ve got you covered with our two respective articles.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains on Lake Lucerne , this city captivates with its preserved mediaeval architecture. Its most recognized symbol is the Chapel Bridge, a charming wooden bridge initially built in the 14th century. Visitors shouldn’t miss out on checking out the Swiss Museum of Transport or the iconic Lion Monument. Finally, Lucerne has a vibrant nightlife and music scene, including the world-famous Lucerne Carnival, make it a memorable destination.

Bern , Switzerland's capital city, takes you on a journey through time with its well-preserved mediaeval cityscape, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the enchanting old town, visit the iconic Bear Park - a symbol of the city, and take a peek inside the Federal Palace. Art lovers will enjoy the Zentrum Paul Klee, showcasing works of the Swiss painter Paul Klee. From strolling alongside the Aare river, exploring the local food markets, to shopping at charming boutiques, Bern offers an enticing day trip from Zurich. Oh, and don’t forget to take a walk up to Rosengarten for some amazing views over the city.

Chur , the oldest town in Switzerland, blends the charm of the old with the pulse of the modern. Its historic Old Town is a car-free zone that hosts a myriad of cafes, boutiques, and noteworthy museums like the Art Museum and the Rhaetian Railway. The latter provides a gateway to the Alpine landscapes with the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express journeys starting here. Nearby hiking trails, wine tours, and winter sports facilities make Chur an adventure-filled destination.

St. Gallen , located in the eastern part of Switzerland and only an hour away from Zurich, is a city steeped in history and cultural richness. It’s the proud home of the magnificent Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, whose library treasures some of the world's most ancient manuscripts. The city elegantly marries the old with the new, demonstrated in its flourishing arts scene and a textile industry that has thrived here for centuries. You can meander through its vibrant city centre, admiring the unique bay windows that characterise its architecture and stopping for a rest in the city's cosy cafes.

Art and architecture lovers will be enchanted by Basel . Home to the Tinguely Fountain, the Kunstmuseum, Fondation Beyeler, and nearly 40 other museums, the city is a cultural treasure chest. Situated on the Rhine, Basel's beautiful old town, vibrant carnival, and proximity to France and Germany make it an intriguing visit. The Dreiländereck in Basel is a unique geographical spot where the borders of Switzerland, France, and Germany converge. This symbolic tripoint offers a delightful riverside location where visitors can enjoy a stroll or a meal, while physically standing at the meeting point of three distinct European cultures.

Often referred to as Switzerland's most beautiful Baroque city, Solothurn delights with its richly decorated buildings, delightful cafes, and the impressive St. Ursus Cathedral. The city's location on the banks of the Aare river and at the foot of the Jura mountains provides numerous outdoor activities. Don't miss the chance to learn about Solothurn's unique obsession with the number 11.

Schaffhausen

Famous for the Rhine Falls , Europe's largest waterfall, Schaffhausen is more than a natural wonder. The mediaeval Munot Fortress, the charming old town with its oriel windows, and the nearby Stein am Rhein with its well-preserved mediaeval buildings add to the city's allure. Vineyards in the region offer wine-tasting tours that provide a wonderful complement to the visit. By the way, Schaffhausen is the city where you can find the most bay windows in Switzerland. With 171 bay windows, it is followed by St. Gallen with 111.

Known for its gardens and over 17 museums including the Swiss Science Center Technorama and the Fotomuseum, Winterthur is a city for explorers of all ages. The charming old town, the largest pedestrian zone in Switzerland, offers countless shopping opportunities. Nearby forests and vineyards invite for beautiful walks and wine tasting.

Zug might be a small city, but it's rich in character. It offers picturesque landscapes with its lakeside location and views of Mount Rigi. The old town is home to Zug Castle and numerous well-preserved buildings. Zug is also known for its cherries, making the Cherry Trail a must-do for visitors.

Known as the "city of roses", Rapperswil sits on the east side of Lake Zurich. Its key highlights include the Rapperswil Castle, the rose gardens, and a charming old town with its unique Polish Museum. For animal lovers, the Kinderzoo and the deer park on the Lindenhof offer delightful experiences.

The charming town of Aarau is known for its beautifully painted eaves, the vibrant old town, and the Aargau Kunsthaus showcasing Swiss art. The town offers various outdoor activities in the nearby Jura mountains and the Aare river. Its location, midway between Zurich and Bern, makes it a great stop to relax and take in the Swiss atmosphere.

• Mountain peaks to visit on a day trip from Zurich by train

Of course, you can also visit the Alps and spend a day in the mountains if you’re thinking about leaving Zurich for a day. Here are a few of our best suggestions that you can easily do in a day trip from Zurich by train and mountain railway.

Rigi is an easily accessible mountain from Zurich and presents a quintessential Swiss experience. The mountain stands tall between Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug and Lake Lauerz and offers a broad range of activities including wellness, gastronomy and outdoor sports. A unique experience is the cogwheel railway trip from Vitznau, which is Europe's first mountain railway, established in 1871. Once at the summit, the Rigi Kulm, you can enjoy panoramic views over the Swiss plateau towards the Black Forest and lots of surrounding lakes.

Stanserhorn

Visiting Stanserhorn is an unforgettable experience. With its open-air cable car, the Stanserhorn Cabrio, you reach the mountain peak and are greeted by an impressive view of the surrounding landscapes. Stanserhorn Cabrio is the world's first double-deck open-top cable car, allowing you to experience the stunning views in a truly immersive way. Aside from the cable car ride, the Stanserhorn also offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching and dining at the Rondorama revolving restaurant. Additionally, the marmot park near the summit makes for a fun family experience.

Mount Pilatus offers an exceptional experience right from the journey to the peak, which can be via a steep cogwheel railway, the world's steepest, or a breathtaking gondola ride from Kriens. Once at the summit, the 360-degree views overlooking Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps are truly spectacular. Moreover, Mount Pilatus is rich in legends and folklore with stories of dragons and ghosts adding an exciting aura to the place. Summer or winter, Pilatus offers a variety of activities including hiking, mountain climbing, tobogganing and even concerts.

Zugerberg is the local mountain of Zug and offers stunning views over Lake Zug and the surrounding Alps. Just a short distance from Zurich, it's a great location for families due to its numerous trails, adventure playgrounds and picnic spots. The Zugerbergbahn funicular, with its panorama cabins, can take you up to the mountain in less than ten minutes. Also, the mountain is home to various plants and animals, making it a natural paradise for flora and fauna enthusiasts.

Mount Titlis is a unique experience for anyone visiting Switzerland. Located in Central Switzerland, it's the only place in the region where you can enjoy snow and ice all year round, thanks to its glacier park at over 3000 metres above sea level. The highlight is the Titlis Rotair, the world's first revolving gondola, which offers panoramic views of the snowy peaks, deep crevasses, and pristine white glaciers. For adventure seekers, there's the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe's highest suspension bridge.

Bürgenstock

Bürgenstock, perched above Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, is an exquisite mountain that provides a unique blend of natural beauty and luxury experiences. This mountain peak is renowned for its world-class Bürgenstock Resort, which offers exceptional views, wellness facilities, and gourmet dining options. For nature lovers, the Bürgenstock Felsenweg and the Hammetschwand Lift, Europe's highest outdoor elevator, provide breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and the surrounding lake.

Flumserberg

Flumserberg is a beautiful destination throughout the year. As the largest winter sports region in Eastern Switzerland, it offers a wide range of slopes for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, it transforms into a hiking and biking paradise, with well-marked trails and routes suitable for all levels. The 8-seater gondola Prodalp-Express can take visitors up to the mountain offering stunning views of the Churfirsten mountain range and the Walensee. Moreover, its proximity to Zurich makes it an ideal day trip for both relaxation and adventure.

• Lakes and waterfalls to visit on a day trip from Zurich

If you’re looking for a lake or a waterfall to spend a day, you’ve got some beautiful options as well.

Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls, which are located next to Schaffhausen, are Europe's largest waterfall and a thrilling spectacle of nature. Its thunderous roar and misty sprays can be best experienced from the various viewing platforms or a boat ride that takes you close to the roaring waters. Not only is the falls itself a sight to behold, but the surrounding scenic landscapes make it a perfect day trip from Zurich. And they can easily be combined with a visit to the beautiful town of Schaffhausen.

• Lake Lucerne

Nestled amidst the Swiss Alps, Lake Lucerne offers breathtaking panoramas that reflect in its shimmering waters. The city of Lucerne, with its historic Old Town, iconic Chapel Bridge, and Swiss Museum of Transport, serves as an excellent base to explore the lake. Take a leisurely boat ride or enjoy the many hiking trails around the lake, offering majestic views of the surrounding mountains. If you buy a day pass for Lake Lucerne, you can jump on any boat you like and explore the area.

Lake Zurich

Since you’re already in Zurich, you might as well spend a day on and by its very own lake, right? You can spend a day exploring the lake on one of the many cruise boats or simply relax at the lively lake promenade, known for its cafés, restaurants, and vibrant art scene. The lake also offers several recreational activities like swimming, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding in the summer. Moreover, several parks and gardens along the shore provide excellent picnic spots, allowing visitors to unwind amidst nature, right in the city's heart. Our favourite town to visit in combination with a boat ride on Lake Zurich is Rapperswil.

A hidden gem in the heart of Switzerland, Lake Zug is renowned for its tranquil beauty. The old town of Zug, with its quaint narrow streets and historical buildings, is a charming place to explore. With cycling routes, water sports, and fishing opportunities, Lake Zug offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

River Rhine from Schaffhausen to Stein am Rhein

Sailing down the River Rhine from Schaffhausen to Stein am Rhein offers a glimpse into the Swiss countryside's charming beauty. The journey takes you past vineyards, mediaeval towns, and charming Swiss villages. Stein am Rhein, known for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, is a picture-perfect ending to a serene river journey. By the way, this boat journey is supposed to be one of the most beautiful in Switzerland.

Walensee is a jewel in the Swiss landscape, flanked by steep cliffs and verdant meadows. It's an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with hiking trails leading to stunning viewpoints and crystal clear waters for swimming and boating. The picturesque villages of Weesen and Walenstadt on its shores are worth exploring for their Swiss charm.

Guided day trips from Zurich

Now, if you’re looking for a guided tour where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the view without looking for your train, there’s a handful of trips available to you. One of the big upsides of joining a guided day trip from Zurich is that you can see places that would be difficult to pack in your own one-day itinerary.

Like for instance the trip to Jungfraujoch or the Appenzell region. While you can visit most places in Switzerland by public transport, if you only have a day, it’s sometimes easier to just jump on a bus and let your guide take you to incredible places. Here’s a list of all the guided day trips from Zurich that you can book on Swiss Activities.

• Guided day trips from Zurich into the Alps
• Day trip from Zurich to Jungfraujoch
• Day trip from Zurich to Lucerne and Bürgenstock
• Day trip from Zurich to Lucerne and Pilatus
• Day trip from Zurich to Lucerne and Mount Titlis
• Day trip from Zurich to Stanserhorn
• Day trip from Zurich to Rigi
• Day trip from Zurich to Grindelwald and Interlaken
• Adventure day trip from Zurich to Grindelwald First
• Day trip from Zurich to Lucerne and Engelberg
• Guided day trips from Zurich in winter
• Snow day trip from Zurich to Lucerne and Mount Titlis
• Snow day trip from Zurich to Grindelwald for beginners
• City and culinary day trips from Zurich
• Day trip from Zurich to Lucerne (including a boat ride on Lake Lucerne)
• Day trip from Zurich to the Rhine Falls
• Day trip from Zurich to Bern and Kambly biscuit factory
• Culinary day trip from Zurich to Appenzell
• Day trip from Zurich to Lucerne
• Day trip around Zurich including Lindt Home of Chocolate
• Half-day trip from Zurich to Stein am Rhein and the Rhine Falls

As you can see, you have a wide selection of day trips from Zurich to choose from. We hope you found some inspiration and now have a few ideas on how you could plan your trip.

Table of contents

If you book a day trip, you only have to take care of your ticket and arrive on time at the boarding point. Everything else is taken care of by the organizers. Other costs such as mountain railroads, entrance fees or even a small meal, everything that belongs to the excursion, is already paid. You don't have to make any reservations either. Particularly pleasant are day trips to areas that can be reached by public transport only with several changes.

Only in exceptional cases lunch is included in the price. In this case, it will be explicitly mentioned in the description of the day trip. By the way, you can see this at a glance for every single activity we offer. Please have a look at the services section.

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• Lauterbrunnen
• Brienzwiler

Top Activities

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• Harder Kulm
• First Cliff Walk
• Jungfraujoch
• Museum of Transport
• Mount Titlis
• Schynige Plate
• Eiger Glacier
• Lake Geneva
• Grindelwald First
• Chillon Castle

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Europe , Switzerland , Travel

 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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2024 Zurich Classic leaderboard, scores: Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry among leaders after Round 1

Mcilroy and lowry headline a crowded leaderboard as the competition moves to foursomes for friday.

There aren't many firsts left for Rory McIlroy to achieve in his PGA Tour career, but he checked one off the list Thursday at TPC Louisiana. Making his debut appearance in the Zurich Classic, the 34-year-old looked like the seasoned veteran he is alongside Ryder Cup teammate Shane Lowry. The two fired an 11-under 61 in the four-ball format amid the windy afternoon conditions to sit with the teams of Ryan Brehm and Mark Hubbard, Aaron Rai and David Lipsky and Ben Kohles and Patton Kizzire atop the leaderboard after Round 1.

While this week marks McIlroy's first attempt at claiming the PGA Tour's annual team event, it also represents his 11th start of the year as he continues to play through some relative early season struggles. McIlroy had no issues in the first round as he drove the ball beautifully, struck towering iron shots and picked apart the par-72 layout in unison with Lowry.

"You know that you sort of need to get off to a good start, and thankfully we did," McIlroy said. "We were 4 under through 4, which was really nice to see, and from there you've got some momentum and you're just trying to keep it going. But for the most part today, we kept both balls in play. We were having two looks basically on every hole at birdie, and that's the way you need to play better ball. Everyone thinks it's maybe a bit more gung ho than that, but as long as you have two balls in play off the tee, two balls on the green, I think you're always going to do pretty well in this format."

The two began their days with four birdies out the gate and tacked on a couple more to turn in 6-under 30. A birdie on No. 10 was followed with a disappointing par on the par-5 11th, but that did nothing to dampen their spirits. McIlroy struck his best iron of the day into the 12th when he feathered an 8 iron against the wind and to tap-in distance.

Rory McIlroy drops it close from 163 yards to set up birdie and move Lowry/McIlroy 8-under and three back. 🎯🤌 📺: Golf Channel & @peacock | @Zurich_Classic pic.twitter.com/Z4Bv95PD8m — Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) April 25, 2024

Lowry picked him up on the very next hole with a birdie of his own to get the team to 9 under and added another on the difficult par-3 14th to get to double digits under par. With four holes remaining, the two appeared likely to overtake the clubhouse lead, but a couple middling pars to go along with one last birdie on the par-5 18th meant there will be four teams sleeping on the lead tonight before the competition transitions to foursomes on Friday.

Let's take a look around the rest of the leaderboard after the first round in Louisiana.

The leaders

T1. Rory McIlroy/Shane Lowry, David Lipsky/Aaron Rai, Ryan Brehm/Mark Hubbard, Ben Kohles/Patton Kizzire (-11)

Outside McIlroy and Lowry, the top of the leaderboard is surprising, to say the least. Hubbard has notched a couple top 20s, a top five and has yet to miss a cut this season while Rai has been solid, but the rest of the lot haven't seen the weekend with much consistency. Hubbard's teammate, Brehm, has seven missed cuts in 11 starts. Rai's teammate, Lipsky, has missed eight cuts in 11 starts and is without a top 40. Kizzire has six missed cuts and a withdrawal in nine starts, and Kohles has six missed cuts and a withdrawal in 11 starts. Four-ball can hide deficiencies, but the same cannot be said for foursomes, which will be played Friday and Sunday. 

"Just like usual, we ham-and-egged it," Hubbard said. "I don't think either of us were feeling amazing about our games coming into the day, but we just feed off each other really well. We relax each other out there, and best ball is just a fun format. I didn't putt great last week, but he had a lot of holes where he snuggled it up there nice and close for par and it really freed me up. You just kind of get confidence that way, and I think even you watching me make some putts gave you confidence and you poured them in at the end."

Other contenders

T5. Davis Thompson/Andrew Novak, Thomas Detry/Robert MacIntyre, Cameron Champ/MJ Daffue (-10) T8. Sam Stevens/Paul Barjon, Garrick Higgo/Ryan Fox, Luke List/Henrik Norlander, Corey Conners/Taylor Pendrith, Zac Blair/Patrick Fishburn, Marc Meissner/Austin Smotherman, Callium Tarren/David Skinns, Keith Mitchell/Joel Dahmen (-9)

Detry and MacIntyre got off to a dream start by playing their first four holes in 4 under. After hitting a lull, the two turned it on and carded six back-nine birdies to shoot 10-under 62. MacIntyre has the team experience from this past fall's Ryder Cup, while Detry has been enjoying a very solid 2024 campaign. The staying power of all these teams on this leaderboard is interesting given the volatility of foursomes, but the two Europeans should be up to the task.

I think it's about leaving each other to it," MacIntyre said regarding Friday's strategy. "We're both good players, both know what we're doing with the golf ball. It's just trusting each other. If I hit a good shot, you hit a good shot. If you hit a bad shot, don't say sorry, you're not meaning to do it. You just keep walking forward and keep trying to hit good shots and committing to them and see where we end up. Can't really do anything about it. It's difficult because you might not hit a 5-foot putt until the 17th hole. It's completely different. All you can do is try your best."

2024 Zurich Classic updated odds, picks

Odds via Sportsline consensus

• Rory McIlroy/Shane Lowry: 13/5
• Xander Schauffele/Patrick Cantlay: 10-1
• Aaron Rai/David Lipsky: 15-1
• Thomas Detry/Robert MacIntyre: 16-1
• Andrew Novak/David Thompson: 16-1
• Nick Taylor/Adam Hadwin: 18-1
• Corey Conners/Taylor Pendrith: 18-1
• Joel Dahmen/Keith Mitchell: 20-1

Let's roll with the 2022 champion at 10-1. Schauffele and Cantlay burned a ton of edges on Thursday but kept themselves in it with a late flurry of birdies. They now transition to foursomes for two of the next three days where they were dominant a year ago. In 2023, the two fired a 9-under 63 in Round 2 and a 6-under 66 in Round 4 in this format. If they card something similar in the mid 60s tomorrow, they should be in business heading into the weekend.

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5 things from zurich classic of new orleans shows four 61s, including rory mcilroy and shane lowry, share this article.

AVONDALE, La. – There is only one event on the PGA Tour where an opening-round score of 64 could land you in a tie for 20th, the Zurich Classic at TPC Louisiana. The course is not a pushover, but the tournament’s two-man team format combined with foursomes competition in the first round lends itself to seriously low scores.

After the first day of play, four teams share the lead at 11-under 61: Ryan Brehm and Mark Hubbard; Patton Kizzire and Ben Kohles; David Lipsky and Aaron Rai; and Ryder Cup stars Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy.

On Friday, the tournament format changes to foursomes, which is also known as alternate shot. The low 33 teams (and ties) will make the cut and qualify for the weekend.

ZURICH : Friday tee times | 10 teams to watch

Several players commented after their round that with birdies and low scores everywhere, it is easier to get a real sense of who is in the best position in the tournament after Friday’s action concludes. That may be true, but here are five things we learned on Thursday at TPC Louisiana. 

Shane Lowry's Christmas present arrived

Shane Lowry talks to his caddie on the ninth green during the first round of the 2024 Zurich Classic of New Orleans. (Photo: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports)

Maybe you hoped that the holidays would bring you a new iPhone, a cool pair of sneakers or a new putter. Even if you got something like that, Shane Lowry’s present still has you beat.

Lowry didn’t want to ask Rory McIlroy to be his partner this year because he didn’t think McIlroy would want to play, and he didn’t want to put his close friend in an awkward position. But during a lunch that involved a few drinks after the 2023 Ryder Cup, Rory brought up the idea of playing together in New Orleans. 

“I was like, ‘Absolutely,’” Lowry said. “We talked about it that day, and then he sent me a text around Christmas time, and it was a nice little Christmas present for me to get.”

That holiday present helped push Lowry’s (and McIlroy’s) name to the top of the leaderboard after the Irish duo shot a bogey-free, opening-round 61, including 11 birdies.

Rory's enjoying the Big Easy

Rory McIlroy looks on from the ninth green during the first round of the 2024 Zurich Classic of New Orleans. (Photo: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports)

“Any day you go out and play the round of golf we did, you’re going to have a good time,” Rory said a few minutes after signing his team’s scorecard. “We enjoyed it. We both played nice golf.”

But off the course, McIlroy is enjoying his first trip to the Big Easy, too.

“I’ve had a wonderful time so far,” he said Thursday. “I’ve only been here really a couple of days, but we’re staying downtown and we’ve ventured out a couple of times. It’s a cool city, a great food scene. I thought the crowds out there today and the support that we got was amazing.”

Steak was on the menu last night at a French restaurant, but with an early tee time Friday, McIlroy and Lowry hinted that it will be a quiet evening Thursday night. 

“Hopefully we’ll shoot a good score tomorrow,” McIlroy said, “and we’ll have some great Cajun food tomorrow night.”

A fast start is critical

A Zurich Classic flagstick in the 9th hole during the first round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

A 72-hole stroke-play event allows golfers a chance to work their way into a tournament, but the fourball format of the opening round of the Zurich Classic gives every team two balls in play on every hole, which for elite players means two chances to make birdies. Once again, scores reflected that on Thursday.

Coming into this week, the average first-round score in PGA Tour events for a player who finished the week in the top 10 was 67.82. Last season, the field’s scoring average in Thursday’s fourball was 65.56, and the average score among teams that finished in the top 10 was 63.8. The scoring average was 65.29 in ideal scoring conditions Thursday, so any team that shot 68 or higher during Friday’s foursomes has work to do if it wants to contend.

Grain is an issue

Collin Morikawa reacts on the 17th green after a putt during the first round of the 2024 Zurich Classic at TPC Louisiana. (Photo: Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

“There’s a lot of grain around the holes and it’s kind of tricky to read in places,” Shane Lowry said on Thursday evening. 

TPC Louisiana is at sea level, a mile south of the Mississippi River and a mile north of Lake Cataouatche and the Mississippi Delta. The soil is sandy, and the Bermuda grass has more grain in it than any PGA Tour venue outside the Caribean, which can make chipping and pitching tricky. Several golfers switched to wedges with more loft and more bounce to handle the turf. In some cases, players like Collin Morikawa opted to chip with fairway woods instead of wedges because the wide sole of a fairway wood skims over the grass instead of getting stuck or grabbing in the grainy turf.

Even for the game’s best players, short game shots around TPC Louisiana are not easy.

Depth of talent on the PGA Tour is underappreciated

Sahith Theegala fist bumps his caddie after a shot on the 13th green during the first round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. (Photo: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports)

Two weeks ago at the Masters, the leaderboard was filled with household names and stars like Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa, Bryson DeChambeau and Max Homa. Sure, there are some star players at TPC Louisiana, like Rory, Collin, Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele. Still, many of the game’s top players are taking this week off before starting their preparations for May’s PGA Championship. 

Many golf fans don’t know Ryan Brehm and his partner, Mark Hubbard, who shot 61 Thursday. They are not familiar with Robert MacIntyre and Thomas Detry, who carded a 62, or Ryan Fox and Garrick Higgo, who finished at 9-under 63, but events like the Zurich Classic should act as a remember that the PGA Tour is loaded with elite players and up-and-coming talent. 

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Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry share lead in team event at TPC of Louisiana

Rory McIlroy, right, of Northern Ireland, and teammate Shane Lowry, of Ireland, walk down the first fairway during the first round of the PGA Zurich Classic golf tournament at TPC Louisiana in Avondale, La., Thursday, April 25, 2024. Credit: AP/Gerald Herbert

AVONDALE, La. — Rory McIlroy is enjoying his first visit to New Orleans — on and off the course.

McIlroy and Shane Lowry shot an 11-under 61 in fourball play Thursday for a share of the first-round lead in the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, the PGA Tour’s only team event.

The Irish duo shared the lead with the teams of Ryan Brehm-Mark Hubbard, Ben Kohles-Patton Kizzire and Aaron Rai-David Lipsky.

Davis Thompson-Andrew Novak, Thomas Detry-Robert MacIntyre and Cameron Champ-M.J. Daffue were at 62 Twenty teams were 9 under or better on a crowded leaderboard at TPC of Louisiana.

McIlroy’s introduction to New Orleans included a sampling of crab beignets from popular restaurant La Petite Grocery on Wednesday night, a meal he shared with Lowry. On Thursday, they feasted on the Pete Dye layout, birdieing their first four holes.

“I’ve had a wonderful time so far,” McIlroy said. “I’ve only been here a couple of days but we’re staying downtown. It’s a cool city, great food scene."

McIlroy had the team’s first three birdies, although on the par-5 second Lowry was inches away but watched as his teammate knocked in a putt of about 4 feet. After a pair of pedestrian pars, they birdied four of the next six holes before closing out with a birdie on the par-5 18th to gain a share of the lead.

Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, hits of the second tee during the first round of the PGA Zurich Classic golf tournament at TPC Louisiana in Avondale, La., Thursday, April 25, 2024. Credit: AP/Gerald Herbert

“We both played nice golf,” Lowry said, emphasizing the importance getting off to a fast start. “We both made some nice birdies and contributed to the team, and I think we’re very happy with the day.”

Brehm and Hubbard mirrored McIlroy and Lowry with four opening birdies. The team made the turn in 6-under par 30 and bookended birdies on the 10th and 11th and 17th and 18th holes on the back nine.

“Just like usual, we ham-and-egged it,” Brehm said. “I don’t think either of us were feeling amazing about our games coming into the day, but we just feed off each other really well. “I was doing a lot of spectating today.”

Russ Cochran, the oldest player in the field at 65, made his first PGA Tour star since 2013, teaming with Eric Cole for a 69 that left them tied for 73rd. Cochran’s son, Reed Cochran, is Cole’s caddie. Cole had a hole-in-one on No. 14.

Rory McIlroy, right, of Northern Ireland, reacts to the crowd after making a birdie putt on the second green during the first round of the PGA Zurich Classic golf tournament at TPC Louisiana in Avondale, La., Thursday, April 25, 2024. Credit: AP/Gerald Herbert

On Friday, they will play alternative shot.

“Looking forward to getting out in foursomes tomorrow,” Lowry said. “It’s a format that’s tougher, but it is an enjoyable format.

McIlroy was noncommittal Thursday when asked if he and Lowry would attend the popular New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on Friday afternoon. The duo have an 8:53 a.m. tee time Friday.

“Who’s playing tomorrow night, do you know?” McIlroy asked his good friend.

“No, I’m not going out anywhere,” Lowry said with a laugh. “I’m staying out of trouble.”

Jazz Fest notwithstanding, McIlroy joked he hopes the pairing has a late tee time Saturday, meaning they will be close to the lead.

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Zurich classic format and full field for the pga tour’s team event.

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The PGA Tour competes in its lone, official team event at this week’s Zurich Classic of New Orleans. Here’s how the tournament at TPC Louisiana works and who is competing.

Field size?

The are 160 players comprising 80 two-man teams.

How are the teams determined?

The Tour goes down its priority rankings. Players who commit to the tournament get to choose their partner as long as they have some kind of PGA Tour status or receive a sponsor exemption.

What is the format?

The teams will compete in fourballs (best ball) in Rounds 1 and 3, and in foursomes (alternate shot) in Rounds 2 and 4.

Is there a cut?

Yes. The top 33 teams and ties after 36 holes will qualify for the final two rounds.

What happens if there is a playoff after 72 holes?

The teams will compete in sudden-death, alternating formats (foursomes on the first extra hole; fourballs on the second extra hole; so forth).

What do the winners receive?

Both men will get a two-year exemption on Tour and spots in the PGA Championship and signature events, as well as next year’s Sentry and Players Championship. It counts as an official Tour win for both players, though, no Official World Golf Ranking points are given.

Players will be paid out in an every-two-spots manner. So the winning team will evenly split first- and second-place earnings ($1,286,050 for each player) and first- and second-place FedExCup points (400 for each winner).

How do you watch?

Thursday/Friday

• 3:30-6:30 p.m. ET, Golf Channel/Peacock

Saturday/Sunday

• 12:45-2:45 p.m. ET, Golf Channel/Peacock
• 3-6 p.m. ET, CBS

Who is competing?

Here’s the list of teams:

• Fitzpatrick, Matt/Fitzpatrick, Alex
• Morikawa, Collin/Kitayama, Kurt
• Woodland, Gary/Hodges, Lee
• McIlroy, Rory/Lowry, Shane
• Molinari, Francesco/Donald, Luke
• Horschel, Billy/Alexander, Tyson
• Cantlay, Patrick/Schauffele, Xander
• Berger, Daniel/Perez, Victor
• Brehm, Ryan/Hubbard, Mark
• Champ, Cameron/Daffue, MJ
• Conners, Corey/Pendrith, Taylor
• Echavarria, Nico/Greyserman, Max
• Eckroat, Austin/Gotterup, Chris
• Garnett, Brice/Straka, Sepp
• Hardy, Nick/Riley, Davis
• Hoge, Tom/McNealy, Maverick
• Kisner, Kevin/Brown, Scott
• Lee, K.H./Kim, Michael
• List, Luke/Norlander, Henrik
• Malnati, Peter/Knox, Russell
• Moore, Taylor/NeSmith, Matt
• Norrman, Vincent/Campillo, Jorge
• Ramey, Chad/Trainer, Martin
• Reavie, Chez/Snedeker, Brandt
• Spaun, J.J./Buckley, Hayden
• Taylor, Nick/Hadwin, Adam
• Theegala, Sahith/Zalatoris, Will
• Wallace, Matt/Olesen, Thorbjorn
• Hoffman, Charley/Watney, Nick
• Johnson, Zach/Palmer, Ryan
• Kraft, Kelly /Tway, Kevin
• Chappell, Kevin /Dufner, Jason
• Højgaard, Nicolai /Hojgaard, Rasmus
• Wu, Brandon /Nicholas, James
• Lawrence, Thriston /Potgieter, Aldrich
• Putnam, Andrew/Highsmith, Joe
• Cole, Eric/Cochran, Russ
• Montgomery, Taylor/Griffin, Ben
• Smalley, Alex/Schmid, Matti
• Detry, Thomas/MacIntyre, Robert
• Hossler, Beau/Ryder, Sam
• Mitchell, Keith/Dahmen, Joel
• Stevens, Sam/Barjon, Paul
• Kuchar, Matt/Stricker, Steve
• Rai, Aaron/Lipsky, David
• Kim, S.H./Bae, Sangmoon
• Suh, Justin/Hoey, Rico
• Thompson, Davis/Novak, Andrew
• Taylor, Ben/O’Hair, Sean
• Higgo, Garrick/Fox, Ryan
• Shelton, Robby/Furr, Wilson
• Tarren, Callum/Skinns, David
• Wu, Dylan/Lower, Justin
• Hall, Harry/Piercy, Scott
• Lashley, Nate/Campos, Rafael
• Sigg, Greyson/Hadley, Chesson
• Young, Carson/Martin, Ben
• Streelman, Kevin/Laird, Martin
• Blair, Zac/Fishburn, Patrick
• Yu, Kevin/Pan, C.T.
• Ghim, Doug/Kim, Chan
• Merritt, Troy/Streb, Robert
• Yuan, Carl/Dou, Zecheng
• Vegas, Jhonattan/Burgoon, Bronson
• Whaley, Vince/Long, Adam
• Kohles, Ben/Kizzire, Patton
• Phillips, Chandler/Bridgeman, Jacob
• Barnes, Erik/Endycott, Harrison
• Stanger, Jimmy/Dumont de Chassart, Adrien
• Tosti, Alejandro/Potter,Jr., Ted
• Silverman, Ben/Dougherty, Kevin
• Springer, Hayden/Whitney, Tom
• Meissner, Mac/Smotherman, Austin
• Coody, Parker/Coody, Pierceson
• Xiong, Norman/McCormick, Ryan
• Crowe, Trace/Higgs, Harry
• Sloan, Roger/Teater, Josh
• Pereda, Raul/Cook, Austin
• Gutschewski, Scott/Byrd, Jonathan
• Hale, Jr., Blaine/Haley II, Paul

2024 Zurich Classic of New Orleans: Weather Reports Explored

What will the weather be like in new orleans for the zurich classicâ , will it rain on the final day of the zurich classic in new orleans.

Zurich Classic of New Orleans

TPC Louisiana

Avondale, Louisiana • USA

Apr 25 - 28, 2024

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2024 Zurich Classic Friday tee times: Round 2 groupings

Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay were the pre-tournament betting favorites.

Chris Graythen/Getty Images

The second round of the 2024 Zurich Classic of New Orleans begins Friday, April 26, at TPC Louisiana. You can find full Zurich Classic tee times for the second round at the bottom of this post.

Featured tee time for Round 2

Before the tournament got underway, the team of Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele were the betting favorites to win this week’s Zurich Classic, and for good reason: it’s very rare that a pair of pros ranked in the top 10 team up for the unique annual event.

On Thursday at TPC Louisiana, Cantlay and Schauffele got off to a solid start, going three under on their first nine to get into contention.

Jon Rahm names PGA Tour events he’d still ‘love to play’ should rules change

For Friday’s second round, Cantlay and Schauffele will switch to an afternoon starting time, teeing off at 2:08 p.m. ET with Sahith Theegala and Will Zalatoris . The format for Round 2 is foursomes, or alternate shot.

You can watch the second round of the 2024 Zurich Classic on ESPN+ with exclusive early action starting at 9:15 a.m. ET and featured group coverage all day, and on Golf Channel starting at 3:30 p.m. ET. Peacock will offer a simulcast of Golf Channel’s coverage.

You can check out the complete Round 2 tee times for the 2024 Zurich Classic below.

2024 Zurich Classic tee times for Friday: Round 2 (ET)

Format: Foursomes

9:20 a.m. – Troy Merritt/Robert Streb; Roger Sloan/Josh Teater 9:31 a.m. – Callum Tarren/David Skinns; Aaron Rai/David Lipsky 9:42 a.m. – Austin Cook/Raul Pereda; Ted Potter Jr./Alejandro Tosti 9:53 a.m. – Francesco Molinari/Luke Donald; Matt Wallace/Thorbjørn Olesen 9:04 a.m. – Zach Johnson/Ryan Palmer; Eric Cole/Russ Cochran 9:15 a.m. – Peter Malnati/Russell Knox; K.H. Lee/Michael Kim 9:26 a.m. – Nate Lashley/Rafael Campos; Ben Martin/Carson Young 9:37 a.m. – Jonathan Byrd/Scott Gutschewski; Dylan Wu/Justin Lower 9:48 a.m. – Robby Shelton/Wilson Furr; Harry Higgs/Trace Crowe 9:59 a.m. – Norman Xiong/Ryan McCormick; Hayden Springer/Tom Whitney 1:35 p.m. – Kevin Chappell/Jason Dufner; Davis Thompson/Andrew Novak 1:46 p.m. – Garrick Higgo/Ryan Fox; C.T. Pan/Kevin Yu 1:57 p.m. – Taylor Montgomery/Ben Griffin; Thomas Detry/Robert MacIntyre 2:08 p.m. – Sahith Theegala/Will Zalatoris; Patrick Cantlay/Xander Schauffele 2:19 p.m. – Nick Hardy/Davis Riley; Brice Garnett/Sepp Straka 2:30 p.m. – Kevin Kisner/Scott Brown; Tom Hoge/Maverick McNealy 2:41 p.m. – Matt Kuchar/Steve Stricker; Corey Conners/Taylor Pendrith 2:52 p.m. – Daniel Berger Victor Perez; Andrew Putnam/Joe Highsmith 3:03 p.m. – Chandler Phillips/Jacob Bridgeman; Erik Barnes/Harrison Endycott 3:14 p.m. – Jimmy Stanger/Adrien Dumont de Chassart; Thriston Lawrence/Aldrich Potgieter

9:20 a.m. – Sangmoon Bae/S.H. Kim; Alex Smalley/Matti Schmid 9:31 a.m. – Scott Piercy/Harry Hall; Sam Ryder/Beau Hossler 9:42 a.m. – Austin Eckroat/Chris Gotterup; Keith Mitchell/Joel Dahmen 9:53 a.m. – Collin Morikawa/Kurt Kitayama; Rory McIlroy/Shane Lowry 9:04 a.m. – Billy Horschel/Tyson Alexander; Nick Taylor/Adam Hadwin 9:15 a.m. – Matt Fitzpatrick/Alex Fitzpatrick; Nicolai Højgaard/Rasmus Højgaard 9:26 a.m. – Gary Woodland/Lee Hodges; Chez Reavie/Brandt Snedeker 9:37 a.m. – Kevin Streelman/Martin Laird; Sean O’Hair/Ben Taylor 9:48 a.m. – Vincent Norrman/Jorge Campillo; Chesson Hadley/Greyson Sigg 9:59 a.m. – Parker Coody/Pierceson Coody; Ben Silverman/Kevin Dougherty 1:35 p.m. – Adam Long/Vince Whaley; Kevin Tway/Kelly Kraft 1:46 p.m. – Jhonattan Vegas/Bronson Burgoon; Sam Stevens/Paul Barjon 1:57 p.m. – Carl Yuan/Zecheng Dou; Doug Ghim/Chan Kim 2:08 p.m. – Chad Ramey/Martin Trainer; Ryan Brehm/Mark Hubbard 2:19 p.m. – J.J. Spaun/Hayden Buckley; Taylor Moore/Matt NeSmith 2:30 p.m. – Nico Echavarria/Max Greyserman; Cameron Champ/MJ Daffue 2:41 p.m. – Luke List/Henrik Norlander; Charley Hoffman/Nick Watney 2:52 p.m. – Patton Kizzire/Ben Kohles; Zac Blair/Patrick Fishburn 3:03 p.m. – Brandon Wu/James Nicholas; Justin Suh/Rico Hoey 3:14 p.m. – Mac Meissner/Austin Smotherman; Paul Haley II/Blaine Hale Jr.

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2024 Zurich Classic leaderboard, scores: Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry among leaders after Round 1

Mcilroy and lowry headline a crowded leaderboard as the competition moves to foursomes for friday.

There aren't many firsts left for Rory McIlroy to achieve in his PGA Tour career, but he checked one off the list Thursday at TPC Louisiana. Making his debut appearance in the Zurich Classic, the 34-year-old looked like the seasoned veteran he is alongside Ryder Cup teammate Shane Lowry. The two fired an 11-under 61 in the four-ball format amid the windy afternoon conditions to sit with the teams of Ryan Brehm and Mark Hubbard, Aaron Rai and David Lipsky and Ben Kohles and Patton Kizzire atop the leaderboard after Round 1.

While this week marks McIlroy's first attempt at claiming the PGA Tour's annual team event, it also represents his 11th start of the year as he continues to play through some relative early season struggles. McIlroy had no issues in the first round as he drove the ball beautifully, struck towering iron shots and picked apart the par-72 layout in unison with Lowry.

"You know that you sort of need to get off to a good start, and thankfully we did," McIlroy said. "We were 4 under through 4, which was really nice to see, and from there you've got some momentum and you're just trying to keep it going. But for the most part today, we kept both balls in play. We were having two looks basically on every hole at birdie, and that's the way you need to play better ball. Everyone thinks it's maybe a bit more gung ho than that, but as long as you have two balls in play off the tee, two balls on the green, I think you're always going to do pretty well in this format."

The two began their days with four birdies out the gate and tacked on a couple more to turn in 6-under 30. A birdie on No. 10 was followed with a disappointing par on the par-5 11th, but that did nothing to dampen their spirits. McIlroy struck his best iron of the day into the 12th when he feathered an 8 iron against the wind and to tap-in distance.

Rory McIlroy drops it close from 163 yards to set up birdie and move Lowry/McIlroy 8-under and three back. 🎯🤌 📺: Golf Channel & @peacock | @Zurich_Classic pic.twitter.com/Z4Bv95PD8m — Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) April 25, 2024

Lowry picked him up on the very next hole with a birdie of his own to get the team to 9 under and added another on the difficult par-3 14th to get to double digits under par. With four holes remaining, the two appeared likely to overtake the clubhouse lead, but a couple middling pars to go along with one last birdie on the par-5 18th meant there will be four teams sleeping on the lead tonight before the competition transitions to foursomes on Friday.

Let's take a look around the rest of the leaderboard after the first round in Louisiana.

The leaders

T1. Rory McIlroy/Shane Lowry, David Lipsky/Aaron Rai, Ryan Brehm/Mark Hubbard, Ben Kohles/Patton Kizzire (-11)

Outside McIlroy and Lowry, the top of the leaderboard is surprising, to say the least. Hubbard has notched a couple top 20s, a top five and has yet to miss a cut this season while Rai has been solid, but the rest of the lot haven't seen the weekend with much consistency. Hubbard's teammate, Brehm, has seven missed cuts in 11 starts. Rai's teammate, Lipsky, has missed eight cuts in 11 starts and is without a top 40. Kizzire has six missed cuts and a withdrawal in nine starts, and Kohles has six missed cuts and a withdrawal in 11 starts. Four-ball can hide deficiencies, but the same cannot be said for foursomes, which will be played Friday and Sunday. 

"Just like usual, we ham-and-egged it," Hubbard said. "I don't think either of us were feeling amazing about our games coming into the day, but we just feed off each other really well. We relax each other out there, and best ball is just a fun format. I didn't putt great last week, but he had a lot of holes where he snuggled it up there nice and close for par and it really freed me up. You just kind of get confidence that way, and I think even you watching me make some putts gave you confidence and you poured them in at the end."

Other contenders

T5. Davis Thompson/Andrew Novak, Thomas Detry/Robert MacIntyre, Cameron Champ/MJ Daffue (-10) T8. Sam Stevens/Paul Barjon, Garrick Higgo/Ryan Fox, Luke List/Henrik Norlander, Corey Conners/Taylor Pendrith, Zac Blair/Patrick Fishburn, Marc Meissner/Austin Smotherman, Callium Tarren/David Skinns, Keith Mitchell/Joel Dahmen (-9)

Detry and MacIntyre got off to a dream start by playing their first four holes in 4 under. After hitting a lull, the two turned it on and carded six back-nine birdies to shoot 10-under 62. MacIntyre has the team experience from this past fall's Ryder Cup, while Detry has been enjoying a very solid 2024 campaign. The staying power of all these teams on this leaderboard is interesting given the volatility of foursomes, but the two Europeans should be up to the task.

I think it's about leaving each other to it," MacIntyre said regarding Friday's strategy. "We're both good players, both know what we're doing with the golf ball. It's just trusting each other. If I hit a good shot, you hit a good shot. If you hit a bad shot, don't say sorry, you're not meaning to do it. You just keep walking forward and keep trying to hit good shots and committing to them and see where we end up. Can't really do anything about it. It's difficult because you might not hit a 5-foot putt until the 17th hole. It's completely different. All you can do is try your best."

2024 Zurich Classic updated odds, picks

Odds via Sportsline consensus

• Rory McIlroy/Shane Lowry: 13/5
• Xander Schauffele/Patrick Cantlay: 10-1
• Aaron Rai/David Lipsky: 15-1
• Thomas Detry/Robert MacIntyre: 16-1
• Andrew Novak/David Thompson: 16-1
• Nick Taylor/Adam Hadwin: 18-1
• Corey Conners/Taylor Pendrith: 18-1
• Joel Dahmen/Keith Mitchell: 20-1

Let's roll with the 2022 champion at 10-1. Schauffele and Cantlay burned a ton of edges on Thursday but kept themselves in it with a late flurry of birdies. They now transition to foursomes for two of the next three days where they were dominant a year ago. In 2023, the two fired a 9-under 63 in Round 2 and a 6-under 66 in Round 4 in this format. If they card something similar in the mid 60s tomorrow, they should be in business heading into the weekend.

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