A city made for mountain days
Zurich is a handsome city on a long lake, with an old town, galleries and excellent restaurants. It also sits at the heart of one of the world's most efficient rail networks, which makes it an outstanding base for exploring the Alps without a car.
Swiss trains, buses, boats and mountain railways are closely integrated, with connections timed to fit together. On a clear day you can leave after breakfast and be standing among snowy peaks before lunch.
Close to home: lakes and local summits
You don't have to travel far for great views. Zurich's own local mountain, reachable by train from the city, has walking paths and a lookout over the lake and, on clear days, the Alps beyond. Boats on the lake connect lakeside towns, making a relaxed half-day outing.
A little further, the lakes of central Switzerland offer a classic combination of steamer cruises and cogwheel or cable car rides to summits with sweeping panoramas.
Lucerne and its mountains
Lucerne, around an hour from Zurich by train, is one of the most visited towns in Switzerland, known for its covered wooden bridge, old town and lake setting. Several mountains rise nearby, each served by railways or cable cars, with walking trails at the top. Combining a boat on the lake, a ride up and a walk down makes a superb day.
These peaks can be busy, especially in summer, so start early to enjoy them before the crowds and before clouds build in the afternoon.
Further afield
With an early start, longer day trips reach the Bernese Oberland, with dramatic valleys, waterfalls and high peaks, or the eastern Alps near the Austrian border. These are long days, though, and many visitors prefer to stay a night or two in the mountains to enjoy them properly.
Glacier views, high-altitude railways and famous viewpoints usually come at a premium, so it's worth checking rail passes or regional discounts before you go.
Seasons and safety
Summer and early autumn are best for hiking, while winter brings skiing, sledging and snowshoeing. Mountain weather changes quickly, so carry layers, check forecasts and webcams before leaving and keep to marked trails. Bringing skis? Sports equipment can be added to your booking online for €45 per item.
Food is part of the fun on any mountain day. Summit restaurants and alpine huts serve hearty dishes such as rösti, melted cheese specialities and sausages, along with cakes and hot chocolate. Picnics are popular too; supermarkets near Zurich's main station make it easy to stock up before an early train.
Good to know
- Look at Swiss rail passes and half-fare options if you plan several mountain days.
- Check mountain webcams before travelling; cloud can hide the views completely.
- Pack sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun is strong at altitude year-round.