Once you’ve experienced the vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes that make up the many things to do in Zurich, from strolling along the Limmat River to admiring the art in the Kunsthaus, day trips from Zurich offer a fantastic opportunity to explore Switzerland’s diverse offerings. These excursions extend your adventure into the Swiss countryside, revealing medieval towns, lush mountains, and serene lakes just a short journey away.
Venturing beyond Zurich, you’re introduced to a wider array of things to do in Switzerland, where the majestic Alps, tranquil alpine villages, and the rich tapestry of Swiss history await. Each journey from Zurich is a gateway to experiencing Switzerland’s natural beauty and cultural depth, offering memorable encounters with the country’s heritage and landscapes.
Deciding where to stay in Zurich plays a crucial role in how you experience both the city and your day trips. A strategically located accommodation ensures you’re well-placed to enjoy Zurich’s highlights and conveniently situated to embark on your Swiss adventures, blending urban exploration with natural escapades seamlessly.
Discover Best Day Trips from Zurich, Switzerland
1. Lucerne, Switzerland
Lucerne is renowned for its preserved medieval architecture, sitting amid snowcapped mountains on Lake Lucerne. Its famous landmarks include the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, with the stunning backdrop of the Alps.
Distance: Approximately 52 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Chapel Bridge, Water Tower, Lake Lucerne
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Chapel Bridge: Free
- Boat Trip on Lake Lucerne: $20-$40
- Swiss Transport Museum: $25
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lake Lucerne, Pilatus, Rigi
Travel Tip: Don’t miss a boat trip on Lake Lucerne for picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the city.
2. Rhine Falls, Switzerland
Rhine Falls, near the town of Schaffhausen, is Europe’s largest waterfall. This spectacular natural wonder offers boat trips, viewing platforms, and beautiful hiking trails in the surrounding area.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by train, followed by a short bus ride
Transportation: Train and Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Rhine Falls, Laufen Castle, Boat trips
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Entrance Fees:
- Rhine Falls Viewing Platform: $5
- Laufen Castle Entrance: $6
- Boat Trip: $10-$15
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rhine Falls, Laufen Castle, Schaffhausen
Travel Tip: Visit the Laufen Castle for a historical perspective and an elevated view of the falls.
3. Bern, Switzerland
Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is known for its well-preserved medieval town center. The city features the Zytglogge, an ancient clock tower with moving puppets, and the Bear Park, honoring the city’s symbol.
Distance: Approximately 125 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Zytglogge, Bear Park, Bern Cathedral
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Zytglogge Tour: $15
- Bern Cathedral Tower: $5
- Bear Park: Free
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rosengarten, Aare River, Federal Palace
Travel Tip: Explore the Rosengarten for a beautiful view of the city and a peaceful garden experience.
4. Rapperswil, Switzerland
Rapperswil, known as the “town of roses,” is located at the upper end of Lake Zurich. Its main attractions include a beautiful rose garden, a medieval castle, and a charming old town.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 35-40 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Rapperswil Castle, Rose Garden, Wooden Bridge
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Rapperswil Castle: Free
- Rose Garden: Free
- Wooden Bridge: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lake Zurich, Wooden Bridge, Rapperswil Deer Park
Travel Tip: Enjoy a walk along the wooden bridge connecting Rapperswil with Hurden and visit the local deer park.
5. Basel, Switzerland
Basel, located on the Rhine River at the corner of Switzerland, France, and Germany, is known for its vibrant cultural scene. It’s home to numerous museums, including the Fondation Beyeler and the Kunstmuseum.
Distance: Approximately 87 km
Travel Time: About 53 minutes to 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Kunstmuseum, Basel Minster, Tinguely Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kunstmuseum: $18
- Basel Minster: Free (Tower Climb: $6)
- Tinguely Museum: $14
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rhine River, Basel Old Town, Spalentor
Travel Tip: If visiting in late June or early July, don’t miss the chance to experience Art Basel, one of the world’s premier art shows.
6. Stein am Rhein, Switzerland
Stein am Rhein is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings with stunning frescoes. This small town on the Rhine River exudes charm with its picturesque old town and beautiful riverfront.
Distance: Approximately 68 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Painted medieval buildings, Kloster St. Georgen, Hohenklingen Castle
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Kloster St. Georgen: $8
- Hohenklingen Castle: Free (Restaurant and viewpoints)
- Town Museum: $5
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rhine River, Old Town, Hohenklingen Castle
Travel Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through the old town to admire the beautifully painted buildings and visit the Kloster St. Georgen for a historical insight.
7. St. Gallen, Switzerland
St. Gallen, famous for its UNESCO-listed Abbey Library with ancient manuscripts, is a city with a rich cultural history. The Abbey District and its cathedral are major attractions here.
Distance: Approximately 82 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Abbey of St. Gall, Abbey Library, Old Town
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Abbey Library: $15
- Abbey Cathedral: Free
- Textile Museum: $10
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Abbey District, Drei Weieren, Old Town
Travel Tip: Make sure to see the Abbey Library, one of the oldest libraries in the world with a collection that dates back over a thousand years.
8. Liechtenstein, Liechtenstein
The Principality of Liechtenstein, a microstate nestled between Switzerland and Austria, offers a unique day trip experience. Visit Vaduz, the capital, to see Vaduz Castle and enjoy the charming alpine landscapes.
Distance: Approximately 115 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by train and bus
Transportation: Train and Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Vaduz Castle, Liechtenstein National Museum, Postage Stamp Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Vaduz Castle (view from outside): Free
- Liechtenstein National Museum: $10
- Postage Stamp Museum: Free
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Vaduz Castle, Rhine River, Malbun
Travel Tip: Visit the Liechtenstein National Museum to learn about the country’s history and culture, and try to get your passport stamped as a souvenir.
Plan Your Perfect Day Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/zurich-l55?activity_type=dayTrip
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
