Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – The Legendary Dragon Mountain

4.2
(17 reviews)
Zurich, Switzerland

10 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Step into the legends of Mount Pilatus, the mythical “Dragon Mountain.” Steeped in centuries-old legends, Pilatus is said to be the resting place of Pontius Pilate, home to a petrified guardian, and the site where a dragon stone fell from the sky in 1420.

Begin your journey in Lucerne, with free time to explore its charming Old Town, wander the cobbled streets, admire colourful frescoed buildings, and stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge.

Then head to Kriens and ascend to Mount Pilatus by Panorama Gondola and Dragon Ride. Feel the sensation of flying as you soar towards Pilatus Kulm at 2,132 metres, where sweeping views stretch across 73 Alpine peaks.

Choose your preferred descent:

Silver Option: Descend by cable car to Kriens, where your driver will meet you for the return journey.

Gold Option: Descend to Alpnachstad aboard the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, then enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne, where your driver will meet you for the return journey.

What's Included

Free time to explore Lucerne
Cogwheel train from Pilatus to Alpnachstad (gold option)
Cruise on lake Lucerne (gold option)
Dragon and flower path
Cable car including Dragon ride
Driver-guide during transportation
Food and beverage

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Ausstellungsstrasse 5

Swisstours bus will be waiting for you at Zurich Sihlquai bus station. Please check in directly with the driver

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 10 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Zurich

    Meet your driver-guide in the vibrant city of Zurich and begin your journey towards the Swiss Alps. Sit back and relax as you leave the city behind, watching the scenery transform from urban landscapes to rolling green meadows, shimmering lakes, and majestic Alpine peaks.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Lucerne

    Discover Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most picturesque cities. Enjoy free time to wander through the charming Old Town, admire its colourful historic buildings, and capture a photo of the iconic Chapel Bridge or Lion Monument.

    2 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Kriens

    Your driver-guide will take you to Kriens, where your journey to Mount Pilatus begins. From there, board the cable car and glide above lush forests and alpine meadows, taking in breathtaking views as you ascend toward the majestic summit.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Fräkmüntegg

    Enjoy the scenic cable car ride to Fräkmüntegg on your way to Mount Pilatus. If you wish, take a short break to enjoy the alpine scenery or explore one of the area’s attractions, such as the famous Fräkigaudi summer toboggan run. Otherwise, continue your ascent to Pilatus Kulm aboard the Dragon Ride, where panoramic windows and sweeping mountain views create the sensation of flying above the spectacular alpine landscape.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Pilatus Luzern

    After your scenic Panorama Gondola ride to Fräkmüntegg and onward journey aboard the Dragon Ride, you’ll reach Pilatus Kulm at 2,132 metres above sea level. Rising above Lake Lucerne, discover the legendary “Dragon Mountain” and the centuries-old myths surrounding its rugged peaks, adding a touch of mystery to this spectacular setting. Explore the summit at your own pace, taking in panoramic views across 73 Alpine peaks, relaxing on the terraces, or simply enjoying the mountain scenery. For the return journey, choose your preferred option: - Silver Option: Descend by cable car back to Kriens, where your driver-guide will meet you for the return journey. - Gold Option: Take the world’s steepest cogwheel train down the mountain, followed by a peaceful cruise across the serene waters of Lake Lucerne (option only available from mid-May to mid-October).

    4 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 6
    Alpnachstad

    For those who choose the Gold Option, the journey continues aboard the world’s steepest cogwheel railway down to Alpnachstad.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Lake Lucerne

    For those who choose the Gold Option, after descending to Alpnachstad aboard the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, you’ll take a scenic cruise to Lucerne. Upon arrival, meet your driver-guide and board the bus for the return journey to Zurich.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 8
    Zurich

    After a day filled with mountain scenery, legendary stories, and unforgettable Swiss landscapes, relax on the return journey to Zurich and enjoy the final views along the way, taking with you memories to cherish.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The Gold Option, including the cogwheel railway and scenic cruise to Lucerne, is available from mid-May to mid-October.
  • Mount Pilatus facilities are closed for annual maintenance from 19 October to 27 November.
  • Any activities or attractions not specifically listed in the inclusions are optional and available at your own expense.
Supplied by Keytours (Switzerland)
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Tags

Day Trips
Extreme Sports
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Adventure Tours
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.2 Based on 17 17 reviews
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