
Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 12 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon worth booking?
Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon is a 9-hour experience in Zurich, Switzerland, from $206 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 12 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 62 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (12)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $206 per person
The Outty verdict
It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Zurich, with an Outty Ranking of 62. At $206 it sits above the typical similar option ($103), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Prices and availability checked
Travel from Zurich to Mount Pilatus, the legendary “Dragon Mountain” and one of Switzerland’s most iconic peaks, where centuries-old myths meet spectacular Alpine landscapes. Begin with a scenic drive to Lucerne, a beautiful lakeside city. Enjoy free time to explore its charming Old Town, wander through historic streets, and cross the iconic Chapel Bridge. Then continue to Kriens, where your Mount Pilatus adventure begins. Board the Panorama Gondola for a scenic ascent. Along the way, experience the thrilling Dragon Ride, a state-of-the-art aerial cableway with expansive panoramic windows designed to create the sensation of flying as you soar towards Pilatus Kulm. At the summit (2,132 m), take in breathtaking views of 73 Alpine peaks, discover the legends surrounding this mythical mountain, and enjoy time to explore and relax on the terraces. After descending back to Kriens by cable car, meet your driver-guide and return to Zurich with unforgettable memories of Switzerland.
What you get
About this experience
Travel from Zurich to Mount Pilatus, the legendary “Dragon Mountain” and one of Switzerland’s most iconic peaks, where centuries-old myths meet spectacular Alpine landscapes. Begin with a scenic drive to Lucerne, a beautiful lakeside city. Enjoy free time to explore its charming Old Town, wander through historic streets, and cross the iconic Chapel Bridge. Then continue to Kriens, where your Mount Pilatus adventure begins. Board the Panorama Gondola for a scenic ascent. Along the way, experience the thrilling Dragon Ride, a state-of-the-art aerial cableway with expansive panoramic windows designed to create the sensation of flying as you soar towards Pilatus Kulm. At the summit (2,132 m), take in breathtaking views of 73 Alpine peaks, discover the legends surrounding this mythical mountain, and enjoy time to explore and relax on the terraces. After descending back to Kriens by cable car, meet your driver-guide and return to Zurich with unforgettable memories of Switzerland.
What's included
Included
- Round-trip transportation
- Cable car Dragon ride round trip to Pilatus mountain
- Free time to explore Lucerne
- Driver-guide during transportation
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Train and cruise
What you'll see and do
Meet your driver-guide in Zurich and settle into the coach as you begin your journey to Lucerne. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive through the Swiss countryside as you leave the city behind and make your way towards the charming lakeside city of Lucerne.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Lucerne
After approximately one hour, arrive in Lucerne and enjoy two hours of free time to explore its charming Old Town. Wander through the historic streets, admire the colourful buildings, and take a relaxing stroll along the beautiful lakeside.
90 minutes here
Chapel Bridge
During your free time, stroll across Lucerne’s iconic Chapel Bridge, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Admire its distinctive wooden structure and historic paintings beneath the roof, while enjoying beautiful views of the Reuss River.
30 minutes here
Kriens
Your driver-guide will take you to Kriens, the starting point of your adventure into the legendary Dragon World. From here, soar towards Mount Pilatus aboard the Panorama Gondola before continuing on the famous Dragon Ride—a thrilling journey through the sky, surrounded by breathtaking Alpine scenery.
60 minutes here
Pilatus Luzern
After your Dragon Ride, designed to create the sensation of flying, arrive at Pilatus Kulm at 2,132 metres above sea level. Surrounded by dramatic Alpine scenery, discover the legends and mysteries that have made Mount Pilatus one of Switzerland’s most fascinating mountains. Take time at the summit to enjoy the scenery and experience the magic of this legendary mountain. With your camera filled with unforgettable photos, descend by cable car back to Kriens, where your driver-guide will be waiting for you for the return journey.
240 minutes here · Admission included
Zurich
After a day filled with mountain scenery, legendary stories, and unforgettable Swiss landscapes, relax on the return journey to Zurich and enjoy the final views along the way, taking with you memories to cherish.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Zurich
Your tour departs from Zurich Central Bus Station. We have no office there, so arrive 15 min early, look for the Swisstours bus and show your reservation to the driver. From Zürich HB, exit via Platform 18 and head towards Limmatstrasse. The bus station is between Starbucks and AVIA gas station.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Your tour departs from Zurich Central Bus Station. We have no office there, so arrive 15 min early, look for the Swisstours bus and show your reservation to the driver. From Zürich HB, exit via Platform 18 and head towards Limmatstrasse. The bus station is between Starbucks and AVIA gas station.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 19 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Keytours (Switzerland)
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mount Pilatus facilities are closed for annual maintenance from 19 October to 27 November.
- Any activities or attractions not specifically listed in the inclusions are optional and available at your own expense.
- Child seats are not provided. Guests traveling with infants or children are required to bring an appropriate child seat. For safety reasons, the driver reserves the right to refuse transportation if the required child seat is not available.
- This tour operates in all weather conditions. However, mountain activities are subject to weather and operational conditions. In exceptional circumstances, the itinerary may be adjusted for safety and operational reasons.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 12 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
12 verified traveler reviews for Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Another Rescheduled Tour
The local tour operator kind of messed up our schedule by rescheduling our tour for the day after. Luckily, we were available that day. For this reason, I can give this tour a maximum of only 3 stars (average). We enjoyed the tour anyway but it would have been better if they followed the original schedule.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your feedback. We’re glad you were still able to enjoy the tour, and we’re sorry for the inconvenience caused by the change of date. On the original day, unfortunately, not all of the activities included in the tour were available. We therefore contacted you and rescheduled the tour to the following day, which you kindly agreed to as you were available. We understand that a schedule change can be inconvenient, and we appreciate your flexibility and understanding. We’re pleased that you enjoyed the experience overall and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you again with Keytours.
via Viator
Mountain experience spectacular. Tour guide experience could be improved.
The mountain experience was 5 stars. Many fun ways to enjoy the mountain for all ages. The views were spectacular! Many different opportunities to view the mountain views from different perspectives. The tour “guide” was not much more than a driver. Very little information was given in a very unorganized way. His directions on how to get to the top of the mountain was inaccurate, we had to figure it out for ourselves. As far as Lucern was concerned, we were dropped off about a 10-15 minute walk to old town with quick, vague directions given. This reduced the time in old town Lucern by 20-30 minutes. The company should be able to figure out a more convenient option.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share such detailed feedback. We’re very pleased to hear that you enjoyed the mountain experience and found the spectacular views and activities enjoyable for all ages. We’re sorry, however, that the guidance and organization during the day did not meet your expectations. We understand how frustrating it must have been to receive unclear directions and have to find your way independently, particularly when time in Lucerne was limited. Your comments regarding the drop-off location and the time lost in the old town are especially helpful, and we’ll share this feedback with our team as we continue working to improve the experience. We appreciate your honest feedback and hope we have the opportunity to provide you with a smoother and more enjoyable Keytours experience in the future.
via Viator
All good
All was good, drive Gabriel was great, only issue is "glass top bus" is just a shuttle bus, no glass top.
via Viator
Amazing day trip from Zurich
This was a great way to see two great places in one trip while based in Zurich. It was largely an independent tour with lots of helpful hints from the guide. Lucerne is lovely and Mt. Pilatus is spectacular. The cable car (which is in two sections) is an amazing almost hour long ride up the mountain. And because Zurich is an hour away, this was an affordable way to plan a day trip without the hassle of getting yourself there.
Response from the operator: Thank you, Peter! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed discovering Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus and that the experience worked well as a convenient day trip from Zurich. It’s great that you appreciated the guidance provided along the way as well as the unforgettable cable car journey up the mountain. We’re glad the tour made your visit easier and more enjoyable, and we hope to welcome you again with Keytours for another memorable adventure!
via Viator
Switzerland at 7,000 feet!!!
What a great day trip, beautiful
Response from the operator: Thank you, Mike! We’re so happy to hear you had such a great day and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. We hope to welcome you again with Keytours for another wonderful experience soon!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Keytours (Switzerland), who run 70 experiences we rank across 4 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.1.
See everything Keytours (Switzerland) runsWhy this scores 62
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Zurich.
How does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon compare to similar tours in Zurich?
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It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Zurich, with an Outty Ranking of 62. At $206 it sits above the typical similar option ($103), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Who is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon best for?
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It suits families and travelers who want a full-day outing best, based on its 9-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon good value?
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It is a premium pick. It starts at $206, above the $103 typical for similar experiences in Zurich.
How much does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon cost?
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Prices start at $206 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Zurich usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Zurich is not rushed.
Is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 12 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Zurich, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Zurich can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Zurich and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Zurich within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Zurich?
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On Outty we rank every Zurich experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Zurich Food Tour with 10 Local Delicacies, Cheeses & Chocolates, Private, excellent guided tour of Zurich (from CHF 21/pers.), Zurich Historic District Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Zurich?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Zurich?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon?
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Included: Round-trip transportation; Cable car Dragon ride round trip to Pilatus mountain; Free time to explore Lucerne; and Driver-guide during transportation. Not included: Food and drinks; and Train and cruise. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon?
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Your tour departs from Zurich Central Bus Station. We have no office there, so arrive 15 min early, look for the Swisstours bus and show your reservation to the driver. From Zürich HB. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Child seats are not provided. Guests traveling with infants or children are required to br. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Zurich. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon?
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Across 12 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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