Zurich, the financial and cultural heart of Switzerland, is a travel destination in its own right. However, the city also serves as an excellent base for exploring the Swiss surroundings.
From serene lakes to stunning mountain ranges and historical sites, Switzerland offers an array of day trips that promise a change of scenery and a host of new experiences.
Best 10 Day Trip From Zurich
Read on to discover the 10 best day trips you can take from Zurich.
1. Lucerne: The City of Bridges and Towers
Just a 45-minute train ride from Zurich, Lucerne is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Wander through the charming Old Town, cross the Chapel Bridge, and visit the Museggmauer, a preserved rampart with nine towers.
Don’t miss the poignant Lion Monument that commemorates Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
2. Rhine Falls: Europe’s Largest Waterfall
An hour’s drive from Zurich, Rhine Falls offers a breathtaking experience. Walk along the viewing platforms to feel the power of the falls or take a boat ride to get up close. It’s a spectacular scene that is especially intense during the spring thaw when the snow melts.
3. Interlaken: Adventure Capital
Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and surrounded by mountains, Interlaken is a paradise for adventure lovers. Go paragliding over the lakes, take a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, or go hiking. The town also offers various water sports like kayaking and jet-skiing.
4. St. Gallen: The Scholarly Town
Home to one of the world’s oldest libraries, St. Gallen is just a little over an hour from Zurich by train. Visit the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the Baroque architecture and its world-famous library, which holds over 160,000 volumes.
5. Zermatt and the Matterhorn: An Iconic Duo
Zermatt is the gateway to the iconic Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world. Though it’s a bit of a stretch for a day trip (around 3 hours one way by train), the journey is worth it. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or simply soaking in the views, Zermatt is a must-visit.
6. Winterthur: The Culture Lover’s Paradise
Known as the city of museums, Winterthur is less than 30 minutes from Zurich. It boasts the largest natural history museum in Switzerland and the renowned Museum of Art. With gardens and parks covering 40% of its area, Winterthur is also perfect for leisurely strolls.
7. Liechtenstein: A Small but Mighty Country
It’s not often you can visit an entire country in a day, but from Zurich, Liechtenstein is just an hour and a half away by car. Tour Vaduz Castle, take a nature walk along the Rhine, and even get your passport stamped as a memento.
8. Jungfraujoch: The Top of Europe
Though this is a longer day trip requiring about four hours of travel one way, the experience of being at the “Top of Europe” is unparalleled. The Jungfrau Railway will take you to stunning heights, offering breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps.
9. Bern: The Swiss Capital
An hour by train, the Swiss capital is home to a medieval city center that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Zytglogge clock tower, the Federal Palace, and the BearPark. The Aare River offers opportunities for swimming and rafting.
10. Zug: The Smallest Canton
Only a 25-minute train ride from Zurich, Zug is known for its cherry blossoms and its lake. Take a paddleboat out on Lake Zug, walk along the shores, and try Zug’s famous cherry cake.
Factors to Consider
When planning your day trips from Zurich, consider the travel time, activities, and your interests. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure or a peaceful getaway, these destinations offer a wide range of experiences.
Insider’s Tip – A Hidden Gem Near Zurich
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider a visit to the quaint town of Rapperswil-Jona, known as the “town of roses.”
Located at the upper end of Lake Zurich and accessible by a scenic 30-minute train ride from Zurich, Rapperswil-Jona offers a charming old town, a rose garden with over 600 varieties of roses, and a castle with panoramic views of the surrounding lake and mountains.
It’s a lesser-known destination that provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist spots, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the area’s hidden gems.
Conclusion
Zurich is not just an end destination but also a starting point to explore the various landscapes and attractions that Switzerland has to offer.
Our guide to the 10 best day trips from Zurich aims to cater to a range of interests, from history and culture to adventure and relaxation. Each destination offers its own unique experience that will enrich your Swiss journey.