Are you looking for beautiful day trips from Zurich, which are beautiful places to visit near Zurich? Then read this blog on must-do train trips from Zurich. Switzerland is a dream destination for many travelers. Zurich is its largest city, and from here, there are stunning day trips where you can explore some of the country’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Nestled in the heart of Europe, lakes, mountains, and charming towns surround Zurich, and centuries-old villages make for ideal getaways.
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Day Trips from Zurich – Places to Visit near Zurich – Attractions near Zurich, Switzerland
Whether you’re planning a quick escape, a relaxing weekend trip, or want to uncover attractions near Zurich, this guide explores the best day trips from Zurich by train or car, the reasons each destination is worth visiting, must-see sights, tour options, and helpful tips to make the most of your Swiss adventure.
Lucerne – A Postcard-Perfect Alpine Town
Just under an hour from Zurich by train, Lucerne is one of the most popular day trips from Zurich by train. Known for its medieval architecture and the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), Lucerne captures the essence of a Swiss fairy tale. Its location, tucked between Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus, makes it incredibly photogenic and serene.
- Distance from Zurich: 52 km
- Train Time: 45 minutes
Things to do in Lucerne
- Start your day by strolling through the Old Town, where narrow cobbled streets lead you past colorful, frescoed buildings and boutique shops.
- A visit to the Lion Monument, carved into a sandstone rock to honor Swiss Guards who died in the French Revolution, offers a moving experience.
- If you’re into panoramic views, take the Golden Round Trip—a combination of boat, cogwheel railway, and aerial cableway—to reach the summit of Mount Pilatus. It’s a mesmerizing adventure and truly one of the best train trips from Zurich.
Where to stay (if extending to a weekend trip): Hotel Des Balances – A stylish mid-budget option in the heart of the Old Town with views of the Reuss River.
Lucerne epitomizes Swiss charm with its picturesque lakeside setting, medieval vibes, and easy train access.
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Where to stay in Zurich
Rhine Falls & Schaffhausen – Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall
No trip to Switzerland is complete without witnessing the thundering beauty of the Rhine Falls. Located near Schaffhausen, this natural wonder is Europe’s largest waterfall and makes for an unforgettable day trip from Zurich. The sheer power and size of the falls, especially in spring and early summer, are breathtaking.
How to Reach – Catch a train from Zurich to Schaffhausen and then a short local connection to Neuhausen am Rheinfall.
- Distance from Zurich: 50 km
- Train Time: Around 1 hour
Things to do
- Explore viewing platforms or hop on a boat that takes you close enough to feel the mist on your face.
- Combine this natural wonder with a quick visit to Schaffhausen’s charming Old Town and Munot Fortress for a panoramic view of the Rhine River.
Where to stay (if you stay overnight): Sorell Hotel Rüden – Located in Schaffhausen’s historic center, offering comfort and convenience at a moderate price.
Rhine Falls is a must-see attraction near Zurich, an exhilarating blend of nature and history.
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Appenzell – Swiss Traditions and Rolling Hills
Appenzell is a perfect place to visit near Zurich for those looking to dive into authentic Swiss culture. This quaint town is renowned for its customs, colorful houses, cheese, and natural beauty. It’s a visual treat, dotted with painted facades and rolling green pastures, making the train journey feel like you’re stepping into a storybook.
- Distance from Zurich: 95 km
- Train Time: Approximately 2 hours
Things to do in Appenzell
- Stroll through the car-free town center,
- Visit a local cheese factory to sample the famous Appenzeller cheese, and
- Take a cable car up to Ebenalp for a hike to the Wildkirchli caves and the awe-inspiring cliffside Aescher hut.
Where to stay: Hotel Hecht – A charming, mid-budget stay in the town center with traditional decor and Swiss hospitality.
Appenzell offers a peaceful escape into Switzerland’s rural heart, ideal for hikers and cultural explorers.
Bern – The UNESCO-listed Capital City
Switzerland’s capital, Bern, is one of the most underrated day trips from Zurich. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bern’s medieval Old Town is wrapped in the loops of the Aare River and packed with Renaissance fountains, arcaded streets, and cultural richness.
- Distance from Zurich: 125 km
- Train Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Things to do in Bern
- Start your day at the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), which hosts every hour’s delightful mechanical show.
- Then stroll past the Bundeshaus (Federal Palace), and
- Relax in the Rosengarten overlooking the city.
- Museums like the Einstein Museum and the Bern Historical Museum are excellent for rainy days.
- Don’t miss Bear Park, a unique enclosure near the river where Bern’s symbolic animals roam.
Where to stay (for a weekend trip): Hotel Savoy Bern – Modern and mid-budget, close to the train station and Old Town.
Bern combines political prestige, historic beauty, and relaxed vibes, all within easy reach from Zurich.
Mount Titlis – A Glacier Adventure
Mount Titlis is your go-to if you’re looking for train trips from Zurich that offer alpine thrills. Depart Zurich early to reach Engelberg via Lucerne.
- Distance from Zurich: 87 km to Engelberg
- Train Time: Around 2 hours
Things to do
- Take a series of gondolas from Engelberg, culminating in the revolving Rotair cable car that delivers you to the summit at over 3,000 meters.
- Up top, you’ll find year-round snow, ice caves, a cliff walk over a suspension bridge, and snow tubing. It’s one of the most action-packed day trips for those craving mountain adventures.
Where to stay (if you choose to stay): Hotel Bellevue-Terminus – A stylish yet reasonably priced hotel in Engelberg close to the station and gondola.
Mount Titlis gives you an authentic Alpine experience with snow and glacier activities, even in summer.
Zug – Small Town Bliss by the Lake
Zug often flies under the radar, but it’s one of the prettiest small towns to visit near Zurich. It’s a blend of old-world charm and modern Swiss efficiency. The historic Old Town offers cobbled streets, boutique shops, and a lakeside promenade perfect for an afternoon stroll or evening gelato.
- Distance from Zurich: 33 km
- Train Time: Just 25 minutes
Things to do in Zug
- Visit the Zytturm (Clock Tower) for views over the rooftops and
- Explore the lakeside for swimming, biking, or just soaking in the views of the Alps in the distance.
Where to stay: Park Hotel Zug – A mid-range gem with excellent service and views of the lake and mountains.
Zug is a peaceful retreat, perfect for slow travel and scenic lake views near Zurich.
Winterthur – Art, Gardens, and Local Culture
Just 30 minutes from Zurich, Winterthur is often overlooked, but it’s a fantastic day trip from Zurich, especially for museum lovers and garden enthusiasts. Once an industrial hub, it’s now home to a lively cultural scene.
- Distance from Zurich: 26 km
- Train Time: 30 minutes
Things to do in Winterthur
- As this city has a dozen museums, including the Swiss Science Center Technorama (ideal for families), the Fotomuseum, and the Oskar Reinhart Collection, explore them.
- Pair that with a visit to the Rosengarten or a walk through the Art Nouveau quarter, and you’ve got a delightful day planned.
Where to stay: Hotel Banana City – A budget-friendly hotel near the city center offering great value.
Winterthur is a surprise with its vibrant culture and is one of the best-hidden gems among attractions near Zurich.
Tours to Book – Attractions Near Zurich
Consider joining a guided tour to make the most of these weekend trips from Zurich and day adventures. It saves planning time and often includes skip-the-line perks.
- Zurich to Mount Titlis Full-Day Tour – Includes transfers, cable cars, and activities at the glacier.
- Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein Half-Day Tour – Great combo for nature and charming towns.
- Lucerne and Mount Pilatus Day Tour from Zurich – One of the most scenic options.
- Appenzell Cheese & Countryside Tour – Includes transportation and local tastings.
Valuable Tips – Day Trips from Zurich by Train
- Get a Swiss Travel Pass if you plan multiple train trips—it covers unlimited train, bus, and boat travel and includes free museum access.
- Start early to make the most of your day, especially for destinations 2+ hours away.
- Pack layers, even in summer—mountain destinations like Titlis or Pilatus can be chilly.
- Use the SBB mobile app to check real-time train schedules and platform changes.
- Book popular tours in advance, especially in summer or weekends—they sell out quickly.
Whether you’re after scenic mountain views, cultural immersion, or charming lakeside towns, Zurich is an ideal springboard for experiencing the best of Switzerland. With its efficient train network, rich history, and stunning nature, the possibilities for day trips from Zurich by train are endless. So pack your day bag, grab your Swiss Travel Pass, and explore stunning Alpine towns and landscapes.
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