Beyond Zurich: stunning day trips you’ll love

Zurich is Switzerland’s economic centre, but believe me when I say this Swiss city is anything but dry and boring. There’s plenty to keep visitors entertained in the city itself with a picturesque European old town to explore, but did you know that Zurich is also a great jumping off point to explore many other cities, towns and attractions that lie within reach. There’s a great many day trips from Zurich that take less than 2 hours travel time and with an exceptional public transport system, exploring Switzerland has never been easier.

The best day trips from Zurich

Basel

Located just about an hour away either by train or car, the cultural capital of Switzerland is one of the most fantastic day trips from Zurich.

I spent a few weeks in Switzerland while documenting stories for my travel blog and Basel was one of the places I enjoyed the most as it combines beautiful architecture, narrow streets in the old town to wander for days on end, and lots of places by the Rhine River to eat or chill and enjoy a sunny day.

If you like art and design you’re in for a treat as you can visit the Kunstmuseum, considered by many the most important museum in Switzerland, the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Vitra Design Museum.

Grab lunch in Gifthüttli right by the old town and renowned for the traditional fare and local wines and beers. If you prefer something a it more casual, head to Vegitat for a delicious vegan wrap.

After lunch don’t forget to visit two of the icons of the city, the gothic cathedral of Basel Minster and the Tinguely Fountain by the famous kinetic sculptures artist Jean Tinguely.

All of this is within walking distance of the main train station so you can leave the car in Zurich and take a day to wander all over beautiful Basel!

Contributed by Juan from Planet of Adventures

Churwalden

Churwalden’s Erlebnisberg Pradaschier is the perfect day trip from Zürich for anyone who loves thrills or amazing views.

A train and bus journey of just under two hours brings you to this alpine playground and home to Switzerland’s longest mountain coaster. Its 3,060-metre track twists through 31 curves and hairpin bends.

The chair lift ride up alone is worth the journey, offering beautiful panoramas of the Swiss Alps, especially on the way down. Then fly down the coaster track at full speed, or apply the brakes to take it slow and enjoy the snow-capped mountain views.

Once you’ve conquered the coaster, there’s plenty more to do. In winter, you can ski, snowboard or snowshoe on the natural pistes. In summer, soar down the exhilarating zipline at speeds of up to 110 kilometres-per-hour. There’s also a rope park, playground and giant ball track for younger visitors.

When it’s time to refuel, head to the Pradaschier Mountain Restaurant at the top of the chair lift for a hot meal, local beer or mulled wine with a scenic view. Restaurant Portal at the base of the slopes offers breakfast and lunch, and there’s a Co-op store next to the bus stop for snacks (and Swiss chocolate!).

Before leaving, don’t forget to stop by the photo machine to grab your glossy souvenir print of your coaster run. It’s only ₣5.00 (€5.35) and makes the perfect memento of an unforgettable mini Swiss adventure.

Contributed by travelmorewithnat

Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein

One of my favourite day trips from Zurich is a mix of nature and history: a visit to Rhine Falls and the medieval town of Stein am Rhein. The best part? You can do it all easily by train, no car required.

From Zurich Hauptbahnhof, it’s less than an hour to Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall, the castle that overlooks Europe’s largest waterfall. You can wander around the grounds, ride the panoramic lift, or get even closer by walking down to the viewing platforms. 

If you want a bit more adventure, hop on one of the boats that takes you right up to the base of the falls – it’s certainly an experience. 

Afterwards, carry on by train via Schaffhausen to Stein am Rhein. The journey takes just over half an hour, and you’ll arrive in one of Switzerland’s prettiest little towns. The frescoed half-timbered houses around the main square are like stepping back in time, and the riverside is a lovely place for a stroll. 

There are plenty of cafés and restaurants here too – ideal for lunch or a coffee stop while you admire the views.

Getting back to Zurich is straightforward and takes about 75 minutes, usually with one change in Schaffhausen or Winterthur. With a breathtaking waterfall and a fairy-tale town all in one day, it’s the perfect day trip from Zurich. 

Contributed by Life Part 2 and Beyond

Interlaken

Just under two hours from Zurich by train, Interlaken makes for a perfect day trip for travelers looking to experience Switzerland’s iconic Alpine scenery. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this picturesque town offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Whether you’re hoping to wander along the lakefront, take a short boat ride, or simply stroll through the charming streets, Interlaken is a truly incredible escape from the city of Zurich.

For those looking to grab a bite, Husi Bierhaus is a cozy spot to enjoy hearty Swiss cuisine and local craft beers, making it a perfect pit stop for lunch during your day trip. Afterward, you can opt for a scenic funicular ride up Harder Kulm for panoramic views, or if time allows, explore the nearby St. Beatus Caves for a fun and unique natural wonder.

Interlaken’s accessibility on a day trip from Zurich combined with its breathtaking landscapes, easy-to-navigate town center, and range of outdoor activities makes it a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps in a single day. For a detailed guide on getting the most out of your trip, you can check out this Interlaken travel guide.

Contributed by Danielle from Scratch Your Mapa

Lichtenstein

Our 3 generation family loved our day trip driving from Zurich to Liechtenstein! My in-laws were tickled that we could have breakfast in Switzerland, lunch in Liechtenstein and dinner in Austria (if you want!)  It felt like one of those perfect little European adventures I had only imagined before. The  1.5 hour drive was smooth and scenic with rolling green hills, tidy villages, and mountains slowly rising in the distance.

We arrived in Vaduz, the capital, right around lunchtime. It is such a small town but has a distinctive feel from other areas in Europe like Portugal. Liechtenstein is one of the smallest countries in the world, tucked between Switzerland and Austria, and home to fewer than 40,000 people. It is also one of only two countries in the world that is double landlocked, which means you need to cross at least two borders to reach the sea.

We parked easily at a parking garage and wandered toward the center with lots of cafés line the pedestrian streets. We ended up at a cozy spot with outdoor seating, perfect for watching people go by. My husband and father in law enjoyed a beer and the kids loved the schnitzel.

As we finished, we noticed music and a bit of commotion in the main square. A crowd was gathering, and before we knew it we were swept into what turned out to be an international gymnastics performance. My in-laws loved the serendipity of it all, remarking that these kinds of small, unplanned moments are what make traveling so memorable. 

Contributed by Jennifer from Family Travel – DC and Beyond!

Locarno

Locarno is a perfect day trip from Zurich, offering a mix of Mediterranean charm and Swiss beauty that is completely different from the rest of the country. Located in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino, near the Italian border, Locarno is famous for its palm-lined promenades, colorful facades, café culture and la dolce vita vibe of Switzerland. The town is located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore and enjoys one of the sunniest climates in the country. It’s a great place to slow down and take in the views.

Start your visit at Piazza Grande, Locarno’s lively central square. Wander through the charming streets of the old town filled with boutique shops and art galleries and explore the winding lanes around Castello Visconteo, which guards ancient stories from Roman times onward.

Don’t miss the Madonna del Sasso, a scenic sanctuary situated on a hillside overlooking the town. For panoramic views and mountain air, take the funicular and cable car up to Cardada-Cimetta, where hiking trails and viewpoints await, one of the best things to do in Locarno. For lunch or dinner, Restaurant Blu is a favorite, serving fresh Mediterranean dishes right on the lakeshore. 

Locarno is easy to reach by train from Zurich in about 2.5 hours, making it an easy escape from the bustle of Zurich.

Contributed by Deborah from Passport the World

Lugano

For a beautiful day trip from Zurich, consider a scenic train ride to the Swiss south canton of Ticino and find yourselves walking the streets and lakeside of the city of Lugano. Located with just a direct 2 hour train ride, Lugano is a picturesque Mediterranean destination for a day! 

Lugano is particularly unique to visit since it is next to a lake, but also surrounded by the beautiful Monte Bre and Monte San Salvatore mountain peaks, both visible from the lakeside promenade. With both mountains, you can experience stunning long distance views towards the Alps as well as below to the city. 

Lake Lugano is also large enough to enjoy a scenic boat trip, such as via some smaller connecting villages like Morcote and Gandria. Consider this self-guided 1 day Lugano walking tour to see the highlights. This walking tour includes seeing the picturesque Parco Ciani and

The city itself has numerous museums and shops for those who wish to learn more about the city and go home with some goodies. Lugano is great to visit during a seasonal event too, such as during Autumn or Christmas with markets and live music.

Before leaving Lugano, fill your stomach by eating something Italian, since Lugano is part of the Italian speaking canton of Ticino. You can’t leave Lugano without having a delicious pitstop at a local pizzeria, such as Acqua e Farina. 

Contributed by Zoe from Together In Switzerland

Oeschinensee

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Zurich, the Oeschinensee in Kandersteg is one of the best choices.

Oeschinensee (or Lake Oeschinen) is a real gem deep in the Swiss Alps, not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland.

It’s only about a 2-hour drive from Zurich, making it an ideal day trip destination.

You can reach Oeschinensee from the village of Kandersteg by hiking or by cable car. Getting there is not easy, but well worth the effort. After the cable car mountain station, you can reach the lake on foot or by electric shuttle bus.

Oeschinensee and its surroundings offer a wide range of outdoor activities. The most popular is hiking in the mountains next to the lake, as there are fantastic views of the lake, especially from the hiking trails on the north side.

You’ll also find popular photo points here, my personal favorite being the Aussichtspunkt Heuberg (Heuberg Lookout Point).

You can also swim in the lake in the summer and go boating in the rowing boats for hire.

If you’re looking for more excitement, there’s a bobsleigh run at the Oeschinensee mountain station, which offers spectacular alpine views.

It’s also worth taking a break during your hike and trying some Swiss cuisine at the lakeside restaurant of the Berghotel Oeschinensee.

All in all, Lake Oeschinen is the ideal day trip from Zurich if you’re seeking a pleasant day of hiking and outdoor relaxation. The area is rich in natural attractions, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers in the region.

Contributed by Adrienn from Travel Tip Zone

Kilchberg – Lindt Home of Chocolate

A visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum is one of the best day trips from Zurich. The museum is in Kilchberg, only about 20 minutes away by train or car, so it is very easy to reach and perfect for a short trip.

The first thing you see inside is the world’s largest chocolate fountain, a huge and exciting sight that makes the visit special right from the start. The museum has clear and fun displays that show the story of chocolate, from the cocoa bean to the Swiss traditions that made chocolate famous around the world. It is interesting for both adults and children, so it works well for families too.

One of the best parts of the museum is the tasting area, where you can try many different Lindt chocolates. It is a great chance to enjoy the flavors Switzerland is known for. If you get hungry, the Lindt Café is right there with cakes, light meals, and drinks. It is also the perfect place to enjoy a rich cup of hot chocolate.

Before leaving, you can stop at the shop to buy gifts or treats. Altogether, it makes for one of the most fun and easiest day trips from Zurich.

Contributed by Bulbul On The Wing

Lucerne

Tucked away in the heart of Switzerland less than an hour from Zurich is the utterly stunning Lucerne. Lucerne is the kind of place that feels like it leapt straight out of a storybook. With its shimmering lake, dramatic mountain backdrop, and a medieval Old Town brimming with charm, it’s one of the dreamiest day trips from Zurich.

Start with a leisurely stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge where you’ll find yourself surrounded by centuries-old architecture and vibrant flower boxes and take in the views from the nearby Musegg Wall where the panoramic views of the city are nothing short of breathtaking.

You’d also be crazy not to take a relaxing cruise on the beautiful Lake Lucerne. The turquoise water and the lush valley that surrounds it is best experience right on the water.

Lucerne is also very family friendly, with a compact city centre that is accessible and walkable. For lunch, try the Chügelipastete (veal pie) from the historic restaurant, Wirtshaus Taube, near Chapel Bridge to sample some of the delicious Swiss cuisine.

Whether you’re sipping coffee by the lake, hopping on a boat cruise, or taking the cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus, Lucerne invites you to slow down and soak in its timeless beauty. It’s not just a stop—it’s a feeling and an unmissable day trip from Zurich.

Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a city that feels like a gentle step back in time. With its UNESCO-listed Old Town, winding cobblestone streets, and the emerald waters of the Aare River, Bern offers a slower, more romantic pace than its bustling counterparts.

Bern is easily accessible on a day trip from Zurich with travel time ranging from one hour to an hour and a half depending on mode of transport. There is a direct train from Zurich, making public transport a very straighforward option.

The iconic Zytglogge clock tower in the centre of Bern puts on a charming mechanical show every hour, while the Bern Minster, Switzerland’s tallest cathedral, offers incredible views from its tower. Whether you’re strolling through arcaded walkways, relaxing in the Rose Garden, or hiking up Gurten Mountain for sweeping views of the Bernese Alps, Bern is a city that invites you to explore at your own rhythm.

When in Bern, you must try the local Burner Platte, which is a traditional Bernese dish featuring a mix of meats like ham, ribs, and sausages served with sauerkraut and potatoes. Try it at Zunftrestaurant zum Äusseren Stand or Klötzlikeller, a historic wine bar with authentic Bernese fare. No list of day trips from Zurich would be complete without the capital!

FAQs: day trips from Zurich (including family travel tips)

How far can you travel from Zurich in a day?
Most destinations are within 1–2 hours by train or car, making them ideal for day trips with kids. This post focuses on destinations that are 2 hours or less one-way. Any more travel time than that probably deserves an overnight stay.

Do I need a car for these day trips?
Not at all. Switzerland’s trains are clean, punctual, and stroller-friendly. Many scenic routes are more enjoyable by train.

Are these day trips suitable for families with kids?
Yes! Many spots offer playgrounds, interactive museums, boat rides, and nature walks perfect for children. Switzerland is known for its beautiful nature and the whole family will love exploring the beautiful outdoors together.

What’s the best way to book train tickets for day trips?
Use the SBB Mobile app or website. Kids under 6 travel free, and the Junior Card allows kids 6–15 to travel free with a parent.

Can I visit multiple places in one day with kids?
It’s possible, but with children, it’s best to focus on one destination to avoid overtiring them.

Are there guided tours suitable for families?
Yes, look for family-friendly tours with slower pacing, hands-on activities, or nature-based experiences when looking for day trips from Zurich.

What should I pack for a family day trip from Zurich?
Snacks, water, layers for changing weather, sunscreen, a small first-aid kit, and entertainment for the train ride. If you’re travelling with little ones, don’t forget your stroller so that your kiddos can nap on the go. We travelled with our foldable travel pram and just threw a muslin over it so that our toddler could sleep uninterrupted.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it for families?
Yes! It includes unlimited travel and free entry to many attractions. The Family Card lets kids under 16 travel free with parents.

Are there child-friendly restaurants or picnic spots?
Absolutely. Many towns have lakeside or park picnic areas, and Swiss restaurants are generally welcoming to families. We found most restaurants had high chairs or booster seats and the staff were very lovely towards kids.

What if we need baby supplies or a pharmacy?
Most towns have well-stocked pharmacies (Apotheke) and supermarkets with baby essentials. There’s also plenty of convenience stores around for water, snacks and other items.

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