Swiss Alps, Lakes & Canyons by Scenic Trains, Boat and Cogwheel

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Enjoy a first short train journey as you travel from Zurich to Arth-Goldau. Leaving the busy city behind, the route leads along Lake Zug and through the rolling foothills of central Switzerland, offering ever-changing views of lakes, forests, and mountain peaks. Sit back, relax, and experience how seamlessly Swiss rail connects urban and alpine landscapes.

   40 minutes here · Admission included

2. Mount Rigi

   Ride the historic cogwheel train up Mount Rigi, the “Queen of the Mountains,” and enjoy a journey through meadows and forests to the summit. At the top, take in sweeping 360° views over Lake Lucerne and the Alps, stroll along easy panoramic paths, and relax at a mountain café while soaking up the scenery.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

3. Lake Lucerne

   Step aboard for a cruise across the sparkling waters of Lake Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and steep wooded slopes, the scenery changes with every turn. Charming villages and historic landmarks line the shores, while graceful swans glide across the water. Relax on deck and breathe in the alpine air, or enjoy the views from inside as the boat carries you past dramatic cliffs and rolling hills reflected in the lake. With every bend, new panoramas open — from Mount Rigi and Pilatus towering above to quiet bays and hidden valleys along the shoreline. Whether you’re seeking peaceful moments, photo opportunities, or simply the joy of gliding across crystal-clear waters, a cruise on Lake Lucerne is an unforgettable Swiss experience.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

4. Travel through the very heart of Switzerland on the Gotthard Panorama Express, where engineering brilliance meets breathtaking alpine landscapes. The journey carries you along the historic Gotthard railway, famous for its spectacular spiral tunnels. These masterpieces of 19th-century engineering twist deep into the mountains, allowing trains to climb through dramatic valleys and sheer cliffs. From your seat, watch as the train curves high above its own tracks, revealing ever-changing views of rugged peaks, rushing rivers, and stone villages nestled in the valleys. Each tunnel exit offers a new panorama — a true showcase of Swiss ingenuity and natural beauty combined. Relax and enjoy the slow unfolding of the Alps from the comfort of panoramic carriages. A ride on the Gotthard Panorama Express is more than a train journey — it’s a passage through history, culture, and the very soul of Switzerland.

   45 minutes here · Admission included

5. Schollenenschlucht

   Journey into the dramatic Schöllenen Gorge, where towering cliffs and roaring waters create one of Switzerland’s most legendary landscapes. Cross the historic Devil’s Bridge, a site of myths and battles, and feel the power of the river that carved its way through solid rock. The gorge is both a natural wonder and a gateway to the Alps, where history and legend meet in breathtaking scenery. From here, continue your adventure on the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB). This narrow-gauge mountain railway climbs steep gradients, winds through tunnels, and crosses dizzying viaducts as it links central Switzerland with the high alpine world. Along the route, glaciers, deep valleys, and snow-dusted peaks unfold before your eyes, making every moment a highlight. Together, the Schöllenen Gorge and the MGB offer a perfect blend of wild nature, cultural history, and world-class railway engineering — an alpine journey you won’t forget.

   15 minutes here · Admission included

6. Travel across the spectacular Oberalppass, the high mountain crossing that links central Switzerland with the canton of Graubünden. At over 2,000 meters above sea level, the pass offers sweeping panoramas of rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and sparkling mountain lakes. Reaching the summit by train is an unforgettable experience: the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn climbs steep gradients and winds through tunnels and viaducts before emerging at the top. Here you’ll find the famous red lighthouse — a symbol marking the source of the Rhine River — standing proudly against a backdrop of alpine scenery. Whether blanketed in snow or glowing in summer light, the Oberalppass showcases the raw beauty of the Swiss Alps. Crossing it is more than just a journey — it’s a moment where history, landscape, and engineering meet in perfect harmony.

   75 minutes here

7. Ruinaulta Rheinschlucht

   Discover the breathtaking Ruinaulta, also known as the Rhine Gorge or the “Swiss Grand Canyon.” Formed by a massive rockslide thousands of years ago, this dramatic valley is one of Switzerland’s most striking natural wonders. Towering white cliffs rise above the turquoise waters of the Rhine, while forests, meadows, and hidden side valleys complete the spectacular scenery. The best way to experience the gorge is by train on the Rhätische Bahn (RhB), whose tracks run right along the river through tunnels and over bridges, offering constantly changing views of the cliffs and rapids below. From your window, you’ll see sheer rock walls, rushing waters, and untouched alpine landscapes unfold with every turn. Whether in the glowing light of summer or surrounded by autumn colors, the Ruinaulta is a place of raw beauty and peaceful grandeur — a natural masterpiece that fully deserves its title as the Swiss Grand Canyon.

   75 minutes here · Admission included

8. The tour gently concludes with the train ride from Chur back to Zurich. Take a seat in the restaurant carriage and enjoy a relaxed meal or drink while the landscapes quietly unfold one last time. The route leads along the shimmering Walensee, a lake often praised for its serene beauty, set against a backdrop of green slopes and small villages at the water’s edge. It’s a peaceful contrast to the wild valleys and gorges seen earlier in the day — a final moment to take in Switzerland’s variety before returning to Zurich.

   70 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• 8 adults excluding tickets

  Requires self-purchase: For Swiss Travel Pass holders or if you prefer to buy your own Day Pass fee-free at SBB: CHF 119 (19<16y). I’m happy to help. Pickup included

• Excluding Train Tickets

  Self-purchase required: For Swiss Travel Pass holders or if you prefer to buy your own Day Pass fee-free at SBB: CHF 119 (19<16y). I’m happy to help. Pickup included

• Including Train Tickets

  One Payment - All Covered: Select this option for the convenience of having your train tickets arranged and added to your trip (including booking fee). Pickup included

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

ar, de, en, it, fr

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

Group size

Up to 8 travelers per booking

Operated by

Swiss D Tours

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photos

Traveler reviews

2 verified traveler reviews for Swiss Alps, Lakes & Canyons by Scenic Trains, Boat and Cogwheel. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.