Switzerland · MOUNT PILATUS GOLDEN ROUND TRIPS
10 reviewed
The Golden Round is Central Switzerland’s signature loop: a paddle-steamer across Lake Lucerne, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up the dragon mountain, an aerial cableway down the far side. These are the versions worth booking — what each includes, which start from Lucerne, and how the seasons swap the cogwheel for the gondola.
Ride Mt. Pilatus by cable car, hike alpine trails, descend on the steepest cogwheel railway, then cruise Lake Lucerne back to town.
“Amazing views. Cable car was easy to access up and down. Overall a great trip”
Ride the Dragon gondola to Mt Pilatus, descend by the steepest cogwheel train, then cruise Lake Lucerne on a guided afternoon.
“Loved this tour! Everything you would want to see in an afternoon. Our tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly going above and beyond to make us feel welcome.”
Self-guided half-day from Lucerne to Mt. Pilatus with Lake Lucerne boat, cable cars, and the world’s steepest cogwheel train.
“It was good until we got on the bus and it was going in the wrong direction. It cost us to lose an hour worth of time. It might be helpful to indicate on which side of the street you take the bus toward Mt pilatus because front of train station is busy and congested.”
Zurich to Lucerne and Mount Pilatus in one packed day: gondolas, funicular or cogwheel train, and a Lake Lucerne boat ride.
“It was our most expensive excursion, but it included multiple modes of transportation. I believe the cost was fair. The views from Mount Pilatus were breathtaking. It was fun to see the cows on our descent. Our tour guide was impressive speaking multiple languages. I would have appreciated suggestions/information about the hikes at the top. My elderly parents travelled with us. One had a little difficulty with the long walk to/from the Chapel Bridge, and to/from the bus, in Lucerne, but the various modes of transportation were a good way for them to experience Mount Pilatus. They sat inside with great views while we hiked. Our young adult children enjoyed…”
Zurich day trip to Mt. Pilatus and Lake Lucerne with the Dragon Ride gondola, the world’s steepest cogwheel train, and a lake cruise.
“We had a wonderful experience on our day trip to Mt Pilatus and Lucerne. Our tour guide, Adolfo, was exceptional—very knowledgeable, organised, and always accommodating. His friendly nature and willingness to help made the day run smoothly and added a personal touch to the journey. We also want to highlight Ernesto, our bus driver, who was very professional throughout the trip. His safe and smooth driving made us feel comfortable and well taken care of. The views from Mt Pilatus were absolutely stunning and truly unforgettable. Although the tour did not include a lake cruise (something we were aware of beforehand), the meal voucher provided was a thoughtful and pleasant…”
Small-group half-day from Lucerne: Dragon aerial cable car to Mt Pilatus, cogwheel train down, then a Lake Lucerne cruise.
“Leighton of Swiss Tours was fantastic! He was very knowledgeable and lively! The boat ride was a bit boring after as amazing as Pilatus was.”
Zurich to Mount Pilatus with gondola, Dragon Ride, steepest cogwheel train, Lake Lucerne cruise, and timed free time in Lucerne.
“This tour was a great mixture of activities. Tony was our driver. He was an excellent driver and gave very clear directions for the day. He also gave a nice overview of Switzerland and answered all of our questions. This is a self guided tour, which was very nice for us to structure our day as we wanted. The trip to Pilatus was awesome! The lake cruise was spectacular! Lucerne is a beautiful town! We throughly enjoyed our day and would highly recommend this trip.”
Cogwheel train and the dragon cable car to Mount Pilatus, plus a Lake Lucerne cruise from Lucerne in a small group.
“It was a fabulous day and our guide. Michael was incredible. We would highly recommend this adventure.”
A 6–7 hour small-group day from Lucerne to Mt. Pilatus with Lake Lucerne boat ride, steep cogwheel train, and scenic summit time.
“Our tour guide Abraham was wonderful! It ended up just being me and my husband signed up for the tour and our guide found us and met us right at the meetup spot. He was invaluable with his knowledge of the area and the mountain, had great history and fun facts that he would share and we really enjoyed his guidance. He knew when to offer information or point something out but also knew when to leave us alone to enjoy the views and each others company on such a wonderful outing. Highly reccomend!”
Zurich to Lucerne and the Alps in 2 days, with Mt Pilatus and Mt Titlis, glacier stops, and the Cliff Walk suspension bridge.
“Amazing tripp. Excellent service at the hotell and restaurant on top of Mt Pilatus.”
