Pilatus Railways (Pilatus Bahnen) Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to experience the Pilatus Railways in 2026?

You can reach Pilatus Kulm via cogwheel train from Alpnachstad, or via gondola-cableway from Kriens near Lucerne. Pilatus Railways offers a dizzying choice of ticket options for both, ranging from a 12 franc 1-way Kriens-Krienseregg (mid-station) ticket to a 58 franc ticket for the cogwheel train up and a gondola down.

Q: How much time do you need on Mt. Pilatus?

Dedicate a day to Mt. Pilatus, to cover the journey up and down, time for a leisurely lunch amid a mountain panorama, and plenty of sightseeing. Like other famous Swiss peaks, Pilatus Kulm boasts attractions, such as three seasonal activities: the Dragon Glider zipline, the Wipfelpfad treetop path, and the Pilatus Rope Park.

Q: How long is the cogwheel train ride up Mt. Pilatus?

From Alpnachstad, the steep journey by cogwheel train up to Pilatus Kulm takes 30 minutes. The train is seasonal (May to November), with several departures each hour from early morning through midafternoon. Just note: In the busier summer months, it’s advisable to prebook a time slot to avoid waiting on the platform.

Q: Are there any hiking trails from Mt. Pilatus?

Yes, from Pilatus Kulm, there’s the aptly named Flower Trail to Tomlishornweg, a gentle summit route lined with wildflowers that’s open from mid-June. The circular Dragon Moor Trail has family appeal, while challenging trails abound around Pilatus Kulm and Fräkmüntegg. Routes are well-signed on the mountain.

Q: What makes the Pilatus Railways a must-do experience in Switzerland?

Unless you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge, Pilatus Kulm is only reachable via transport offered by Pilatus Railways. But both journey options–gondola and cogwheel train–offer as much adventure as the mountain destination itself. The cogwheel train is believed to be the world’s steepest, while the gondola offers 360-degree mountain views.

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Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise

Exploring the villages of the Swiss Alps can be confusing, but this group tour has you covered with mountain transportation all the way from Lucerne to the top of Mt. Pilatus. Your seasonal adventure includes panoramic gondola rides up Mt. Pilatus, free time at the summit, a ride down the world's steepest cogwheel train, and a scenic Lake Lucerne cruise (summer only). Guided commentary and round-trip transportation from Lucerne complete the experience.

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Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise

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Mt. Pilatus Gondola and Aerial Cableway Ticket from Kriens

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Mt. Pilatus Gondola and Aerial Cableway Ticket from Kriens

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Mt. Pilatus Peak & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group | From Lucerne

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Mt. Pilatus Peak & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group | From Lucerne

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Zurich: Ride the Dragon to Mount Pilatus aboard a Skyglass Bus

Join a guided adventure from Zurich to discover the legendary Mount Pilatus, Lucerne’s iconic peak, steeped in myths and breathtaking beauty. Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Kriens, where you'll board a panoramic gondola for a spectacular ascent. Along the way, experience the thrilling "Dragon Ride"—a state-of-the-art aerial cableway with expansive windows, giving you the sensation of flying over Switzerland’s stunning landscapes. At the summit (2,132m), take in breathtaking views of 73 Alpine peaks, explore scenic terraces, and relax at mountaintop restaurants. After descending back to Kriens by cable car, continue to Lucerne, a charming lakeside city rich in history. Enjoy free time to stroll through the Old Town, cross the iconic Chapel Bridge. In summer you can upgrade to the Gold tour with mountain train and cruise

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Zurich: Ride the Dragon to Mount Pilatus aboard a Skyglass Bus

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Mt Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise

Exploring Mount Pilatus involves a lot of planning and logistics, but this full-day tour from Zurich covers everything for a hassle-free day out. Ascend to vertiginous vantage points by gondola and cable car and enjoy sweeping vistas of the dramatic Alps mountain range. Embark on a moderate hike down the verdant Dragon’s Path and the world’s steepest cogwheel railway before taking a short cruise on Lake Lucerne. Please note: Itinerary and inclusions vary by season.

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Mt Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise

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Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Rigi & Lake Lucerne Tour | From Lucerne

Treat yourself to the adventure of a lifetime with our guided tour that has been specially curated to help you make precious memories. Upon embarking on this unique excursion, you'll experience Swiss culture first-hand while immersing yourself in Switzerland's most mesmerizing landscapes. During this excursion, you'll experience five wondrous discoveries. First, float among the clouds as you ascend in a thrilling gondola lift ride. You'll then be guided to the highest peak of Mount Pilatus, where you can absorb breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpine peaks. The adventure will continue by cogwheel to Alpnachstad, where you will explore the world's steepest railway track before unwinding on a scenic cruise through Lake Lucerne. Concluding your trip at Vitznau, you will journey up Mount Rigi via train to discover the region's historical heritage and oversee where Switzerland was founded.

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Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Rigi & Lake Lucerne Tour | From Lucerne

7 hoursFree Cancellation

from $368

Explore Mount Pilatus in the Swiss Alps on a private tour. After leaving bustling Zurich, enjoy the scenery as you make your way to medieval Lucerne. Once there, climb Mount Pilatus via cable car and gondola. The mountain offers easy hikes and photo opportunities. Descend by the world's steepest cogwheel railway followed by a relaxing boat ride on Lake Lucerne. Hotel pickup is included for your convenience.

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Mount Pilatus (Private Tour)

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Mt Pilatus Roundtrip Ticket from Alpnachstad or Kriens

Ascending Mt. Pilatus, Lucerne's landmark mountain, is a must-do when you are in the Lake Lucerne region. For maximum flexibility, choose between a ride on the world's steepest cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad, or a combination of a gondola and an aerial cableway from Kriens. Then, enjoy spectacular views of Lake Lucerne and the Alps that you don’t see otherwise from 6,995 feet (2,132 meters) above sea level.

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Mt Pilatus Roundtrip Ticket from Alpnachstad or Kriens

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Zurich: Pilatus & Lucerne Scenic Adventure by Skyglass Roof Bus

Experience the magic of Mount Pilatus on a comfortable panoramic bus tour. This breathtaking Swiss landmark is steeped in legend, 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. Your journey begins with a scenic gondola ride from Kriens, followed by "Dragon Ride" cableway, designed with large panoramic windows for a sensation of flying. From the summit at 2,132 meters, take in views of 73 Alpine peaks and relax. Choose your descent: Silver Option: Return to Kriens by cable car, where your driver will pick you up. Gold Option: Experience the world’s steepest cogwheel train to Alpnach, then enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne. 3 experience in one day! Your adventure will include free time in Lucerne, a picturesque Swiss city. Wander through the charming Old Town, cobbled streets and colorful frescoed buildings. Stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge.

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Zurich: Pilatus & Lucerne Scenic Adventure by Skyglass Roof Bus

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Mt Pilatus Self-Guided Round Trip from Lucerne

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Mt Pilatus Self-Guided Round Trip from Lucerne

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Mt. Pilatus & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group Tour | From Basel

Take a trip into the mountains to admire the beauty of Mt. Pilatus and the Lake of Lucerne on this small group tour, conveniently departing from Basel. Towering over Lucerne, Mt. Pilatus offers a landscape of majestic peaks and picturesque valleys. At 6,995 feet (2,132 meters) above sea level, the summit provides views of the region. Appreciate the sights as you explore the Lake of Lucerne, conquer Mt. Pilatus, and ride on the dragon aerial cable cars.

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Mt. Pilatus & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group Tour | From Basel

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Mount Pilatus Small Group off-season Day Trip from Luzern

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Mount Pilatus Small Group off-season Day Trip from Luzern

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Mt Pilatus from Lucerne Including Boat Trip, Gondola, Cable Car

Visit Lake Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus on a half-day tour by boat, cogwheel railway, and gondola. After a cruise around the lake, ride up the steepest—and probably the most scenic—cogwheel railway in the world. Stop at the peak of Mt. Pilatus, where alpine vistas await. Descend via cable car to Kriens and take a public bus (ticket included in tour) back to Lucerne, where your tour finishes.

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Mt Pilatus from Lucerne Including Boat Trip, Gondola, Cable Car

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Lucerne: Pilatus Dragon Mountain Tour by Panoramic Skyglass Bus

Experience the magic of Mount Pilatus on an unforgettable journey combining cable car, cogwheel train, and boat. Travel in a panoramic Skyglass Roof bus, enjoying sweeping views of the Swiss landscape on your way to the Alps and Lake Lucerne. Steeped in legend and mystery, this mythical mountain 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. Ascend from Kriens by scenic gondola and the spectacular “Dragon Ride” cableway, with floor-to-ceiling windows creating the sensation of flying above the Alps. At 2,132 meters, enjoy breathtaking views of 73 Alpine peaks and free time to explore the summit. Descend on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to Alpnachstad, then relax on a peaceful 15-minute boat cruise across Lake Lucerne to the charming city of Lucerne — 3 experiences in one day. Your tour includes free time in Lucerne to explore the Old Town and cross the iconic Chapel Bridge.

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Lucerne: Pilatus Dragon Mountain Tour by Panoramic Skyglass Bus

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Mt. Pilatus Golden Roundtrip Small Group Day Trip from Luzern

Discover Alpine views from peak, lake, and sky on this Golden Round-Trip tour of Mount Pilatus. The typical Golden Round Trip (Jun-Oct) offers a wonderful excursion: Begin with a cruise across Lake Lucerne to Alpnachstad, then transfer to the world's steepest cogwheel railway to reach the summit of Mount Pilatus. There, enjoy spectacular views over the Lake Lucerne region and the Alps from the large viewing terraceand grab a bite to eat (own expense). The return journey to Kriens will be done on the aerial cableway 'Dragon Ride' and on the Panorama gondolas. From the valley station it is a five-minute walk to the bus stop for a convenient ride to Lucerne. Benefit from your local guide’s insider tips and avoid hidden costs with admission fees and transfers included in the price. Cogwheel railway and the scheduled lake boat are closed from Nov-May. During this time you reach Mt. Pilatus by cableway and we take a one-hour scenic lake cruise in Lucerne instead.

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Mt. Pilatus Golden Roundtrip Small Group Day Trip from Luzern

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Paragliding Tandemflight Lucerne - Engelberg

Take in panoramic views over the Swiss Alps from the air on this tandem paragliding adventure in Engelberg. Following a safety briefing, pull on your paragliding harness and take to the skies with a tandem instructor. During your flight, take in spectacular views of shimmering Lake Lucerne and Engelberg’s peaks and valleys. Enjoy thrilling spins and turns through the air, or glide through the skies in comfort—how you enjoy your flight in up to you.

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Paragliding Tandemflight Lucerne - Engelberg

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From Basel: Lucerne City, Mount Pilatus, Cruise in Private Tour

Sit back and relax—there’s no need to worry about transportation, as all tickets for trains, boat rides, the cogwheel railway, gondola, and buses are included in this private day trip. Take in the beauty of the Swiss Alps and lakes on a full-day private tour from Basel to Lucerne. Travel comfortably by train with a private guide to the charming lakeside city, famous for its stunning mountain backdrop. Enjoy a relaxing one-hour boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, followed by an exciting ride up Mount Pilatus on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. - Enjoy the beautiful Swiss landscapes while traveling by train with a private guide for your exclusive small group — customizable itinerary with hotel pick-up included - Experience a scenic hour-long cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding Alps - Ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway and explore at your own pace with options to personalize your journey—contact us to tailor your perfect day

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From Basel: Lucerne City, Mount Pilatus, Cruise in Private Tour

7 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $751

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Swiss BBQ & Hike Experience – with Mount Pilatus Ticket

Join our experienced guide for an unforgettable day hike on Mount Pilatus, one of Switzerland's most famous mountains. From Lucerne, we take the bus to the Pilatus valley station. The cable car takes us up to the summit and we enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains and Lake Lucerne. Once at the top, an easy hike takes us to the Tomlishorn - the highest point on Mount Pilatus. At 2'132 meters above sea level, the views are spectacular and with a bit of luck you might even spot an ibex. During the hike our guide will tell you interesting facts about the mountain, its flora and fauna and its legends, such as the Pilatus dragons. After the one-hour hike, we take the cable car back to Fräkmüntegg for a well-earned lunch. We grill over an open fire for a real Swiss barbecue experience. Then we take the cable car back to Kriens and the bus back to Lucerne.

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Swiss BBQ & Hike Experience – with Mount Pilatus Ticket

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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Mt. Pilatus & Lake Lucerne Cruise Private Tour | From Lucerne

Lucerne’s house mountain, Pilatus, is a must-see for any visitor. This full-day tour provides two different perspectives of the iconic peak, with an included Lake Lucerne cruise tour plus an excursion to the summit via cogwheel train and cable car. Benefit from the personalized insights and insider knowledge of your private guide and avoid hidden costs with hotel pickup, drop-off, and transportation services all included in the cost.

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Mt. Pilatus & Lake Lucerne Cruise Private Tour | From Lucerne

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Mt. Pilatus and Lake Lucerne Cruise Private Tour | From Zurich

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Mt. Pilatus and Lake Lucerne Cruise Private Tour | From Zurich

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $766

Price varies by group size

Mt. Pilatus Golden Roundtrip Small Group Day Trip from Basel

Experience Pilatus’s famous Golden Round Trip on this full-day tour from Basel. Start off on a cruise across Lake Lucerne, then embark for a ride on Europe’s highest cogwheel railway. At the top, soak up sweeping panoramas of the Alpine landscape before descending via cable car. Benefit from the insider knowledge of your local guide throughout and avoid hidden costs with all transportation—including your train return to Basel—covered.

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Mt. Pilatus Golden Roundtrip Small Group Day Trip from Basel

7 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $628

Price varies by group size

2-Day Alps Tour from Zurich: Mt Pilatus and Mt Titlis

Feast your senses on the mountainous majesty of the Swiss Alps during a 2-day tour from Zurich. Begin your Alpine adventure with a sightseeing tour of Lucerne, then head to the summit of Mt. Pilatus via aerial gondola car. Take in panoramic views of the mountain landscape, then descend by cogwheel train to board on 1-hour boat cruise back to Lucerne, where you spend the night. After breakfast, experience the snowy scenes at Mt. Titlis, visit the Glacier Cave, take a ride on the IceFlyer, and walk over Europe's highest suspension bridge.

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2-Day Alps Tour from Zurich: Mt Pilatus and Mt Titlis

2 daysFree Cancellation

from $783

Mt. Pilatus & Lake Lucerne Cruise Private Tour | From Basel

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Mt. Pilatus & Lake Lucerne Cruise Private Tour | From Basel

8 hoursFree Cancellation

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Mount Pilatus & Mount Rigi in just 1 Day!

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Mount Pilatus & Mount Rigi in just 1 Day!

10 hoursFree Cancellation

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What are people saying about Pilatus Railways (Pilatus Bahnen)

Mt. Pilatus Peak & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group | From Lucerne

Marlis_D, Apr 2026

Mt Pilatus and Lake Lucerne

Great tour, our guide Nikky was awesome. Amazing views! There was a bit of walking some uphill so if you have issues just be aware. But definitely worth it!

Mt. Pilatus Peak & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group | From Lucerne

Aarian_D, Apr 2026

Great experience!

It was a great experience. They took us to the mountain on a cable car and then we also got to go on a boat on the lake. Very glad I took this tour!

Mt. Pilatus Peak & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group | From Lucerne

Donna_L, Apr 2026

This was an amazing...

This was an amazing experience. We were fortunate to have a clear, sunny day. Our guide Nikky, was great. Nikky was a wealth of local knowledge, making recommendations for other sites to see and restaurants to eat at. She made sure the group stayed together, pointing out the best spots to get pictures. Made all guests feel comfortable and welcome. Great tour.

Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise

Gina_C, Mar 2026

Great adventure- highly recommend.

Fabulous tour. Very well organised. The hikes on Mt Pilatus were varied and suited all skill and fitness levels. The only thing was that our ticket said that they would provide us with Euro (can’t recall how much now) for lunch as nd that was never provided - so we had to find our own lunch there. .

Mt. Pilatus & Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group Tour | From Basel

Kathleen_W, Nov 2025

Viking Cruise 2025

Leighton was a very knowledgeable & helpful tour guide. He met us in the train station in Basel & assisted us in getting back on public transportation after the excursion. The cog rail was fun, but we were hoping to ride the gondola as well. The other tour guests were expecting the gondola too. Mt Pilatus was amazing & we were very happy with Leighton. Views from Lake Lucerne were amazing too.

Mt Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise

BernardJohn_G, Nov 2025

The service was...

The service was outstanding! Big thanks to Ernesto for the safe and comfortable drive, and especially to Adolfo — highly recommended! He’s incredibly knowledgeable, efficient, and attentive, making sure everyone’s needs are perfectly taken care of. Mount Pilatus is absolutely magnificent! No photo can truly capture how breathtaking this place is. 💯

Mt Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise

Chad_C, Jul 2025

Great experience!

This was a great trip! The Lucerne area is beautiful. Cable cars and cog train were clean and safe. Walking on the trails at Pilatus was fun, easy and the views are amazing. Our guide, Adela, was awesome and kept things moving, communicated all directions, was informative and we hit our timelines. It was a really good trip!