Top Zurich Day Trips

There are plenty of high-quality day trips from Zurich. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen & Mürren Private Day Trip from Zurich
• Mt Titlis Glacier Paradise Tour from Zurich With Lucerne
• Breathtaking Private Hike with a Local Swiss Expert (1-Day Trip)
• Swiss Alps Panorama Tour with Private Guide from Zurich
• Crash Landing on You Private Switzerland Day Tour from Zurich or Lucerne (CLOY)

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Grindelwald, where you can ski in the winter and hike during the rest of the year. Meanwhile, Rapperswil-Jona looks straight out of a fairy tale, and Zermatt boasts the world-famous Matterhorn. The resort town of Interlaken is also one of the best day trips from Zurich.

Lucerne is a popular day trip from Zurich because it’s less than an hour away and boasts historic sights including the 700-year-old Chapel Bridge. Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, visit the Swiss Transport Museum, or ride a cable car up Mount Pilatus for spectacular views of Central Switzerland.

Interlaken is just two hours away by train and attracts adventure-seekers looking to get their heart rates up in the Jungfrau Region. This resort town, surrounded by mountains, is also a popular day trip from Zurich because it’s full of spas, souvenir shops, and plenty of cozy cafes and eateries.

Liechtenstein is a 1–2-hour drive or train ride away from Zurich. The border countries of Austria and Germany are also doable in a day, especially if you book a private tour with a driver who knows the roads. Keep in mind, travel time depends on traffic, construction, and weather conditions.

Two days is about all you need to experience most of what the lakefront city of Zurich has to offer. However, because of its central location, it’s a great home base for visiting Liechtenstein, Germany, and Austria. Keep in mind, though, Zurich is one of the world’s most expensive cities—your budget might not allow for too long a stay.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Zurich aside from day trips. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Chocolate Tours

• Rail Tours

• Bus Tours

• Jet Ski Rentals

• Private Drivers

Zurich day trip prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Rhine Falls Coach Tour from Zurich

• Small Group Day Trip to Lucerne with Optional Saphir Yacht Cruise

• Best of Zurich Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride

• Full-Day Tour to Interlaken from Zurich (KTZ361)

• Lindt Home of Chocolate & Stein am Rhein & Rhine Falls w/ Cruise

There are a lot of Zurich day trips to choose from—some visit nearby cities like Lucerne or Interlaken, while others explore the Alps, waterfalls, or even Liechtenstein. Tour lengths and activities vary, so read each listing carefully. Check what’s included (transport, admission fees, guides) and note any seasonal or weather-related restrictions.

Dress in layers—the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring snacks, water, and a camera. Arrive early for departure and follow your guide’s instructions to stay on schedule. Some tours cross borders, so bring your passport if necessary.

The best time to book Zurich day trips is between May and September, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Summer is perfect for mountain excursions and lake cruises, but it’s also the busiest season—book early to secure your spot. For fewer crowds, try late spring or early fall.