Tours/Zurich/Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon
Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon
4.4(12)Zurich9–10 hours
VIATOR4.3(10)TRIPADVISOR5.0(2)
+20 photos
At a glance
Duration
9–10 hours
Price from
$204 / person
Location
Zurich, Switzerland
Rating
4.4 / 5 · 12 reviews
Languages
EN, EN
Group
Small group, up to 19
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Confirmation
Instant
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operator
Keytours (Switzerland)
Meeting point
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.
Description
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.
Schedule & prices
Runs
Every day
Start times
8:00 AM
Next available
Sat, Oct 10
Adult (ages 13+)
$204
Child (ages 4–12)
$102
Infant (ages 0–3)
$18
In demand: 24 of the next 30 departures are already sold out.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 8.
Tour Options
Day trip to Mount Pilatus and Lucern from Zurich
(KTZ724) - Mont Pilatus
Itinerary
Admission included60 min
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.
Lucerne
90 min
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.
Chapel Bridge
30 min
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.
Kriens
60 min
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.
Pilatus Luzern
Admission included240 min
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.
Zurich
120 min
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.
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
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
4.4
12 reviews
5
8
4
1
3
3
2
0
1
0
How it compares in Zurich
Starting price $204 is 66% below the typical $600 for tours of similar length in Zurich
Excurgo comparison of 1,166 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
Important Information
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.
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon take?
Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon lasts about 9–10 hours. The itinerary has 6 stops.
How much does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon cost?
Prices start at $204 per person for this Zurich experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 8:00 AM.
How much does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon cost for children?
Children aged 4–12 pay from $102, adults from $204.
Does Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon sell out?
It can: 24 of the next 30 departures are already sold out, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Can I cancel Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is 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 is not part of this experience.
What languages is Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus – Ride the Dragon offered in?
The experience is available in EN, EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 19 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller 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.
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Reviews(12)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
O
Orlando_C
September 30, 2026 · via Viator
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.
Operator response
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.
S
Susan_T
September 15, 2026 · 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.
Operator response
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.
S
Stephen_H
June 18, 2026 · 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.
P
Peter_C
May 10, 2026 · 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.
Operator response
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!
M
Mike S
April 27, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Switzerland at 7,000 feet!!!
What a great day trip, beautiful
Operator response
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!
D
Dolores_C
April 16, 2026 · via Viator
Lucerne and Mt Pilatus
Would recommend the tobaggon ride on Mt Pilatus. And don't miss the Lion monument in Lucerne. Didn't have enough time to walk around the old town.
Operator response
Dear guest,
Thank you for your recommendation!
We're glad you enjoyed Mount Pilatus and Lucerne.
The toboggan ride and the Lion Monument are definitely highlights
We hope to welcome you again so you can have more time to explore the beautiful old town of Lucerne!
Kind regards
G
Gary_D
April 10, 2026 · via Viator
Mt. Pilatus for the win!!!
Beautiful views, friendly staff. If you want the full experience be sure wear comfortable flat shoes. Check the weather and maybe bring sun screen.
Be careful the cog train and boat do not run all year. While booking I saw that lunch would be provided instead to compensate for the winter closures. Well, it wasn’t and I could not find my proof. Make copies of everything.
Driver was AMAZING!!!
Operator response
Hi Gary,
Thank you for your kind review!
We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the beautiful views and that our driver made such a positive impression — we’ll be sure to pass on your compliments.
Thank you again for sharing your experience, and we hope to welcome you back on another Keytours Switzerland excursion soon!
L
LouiseFeldkamp
December 25, 2025 · via Viator
A must do!
Great tour. Buses we're on time. Drivers were very pleasant and informative. Plenty of time given in both locations to walk around and see the sights.
Thank you!
1 people found this helpful
Operator response
Thank you for your kind review! We’re very pleased to hear you enjoyed the tour and that everything ran smoothly, from the punctual buses to our pleasant and informative drivers. It’s great to know you appreciated having plenty of time at each location to explore and take in the sights. Thank you for choosing us, and we hope to see you again soon from Keytours team
M
Melanie_P
August 26, 2025 · via Viator
Broken Bus
For a small group experience, I was a little surprised that there wasn't more interaction between the guide and the guest. Janis was very nice, but didn't shepherd us to the sites in Lucern as I would expect with a group this size. One couple was actually late coming back to the bus in Lucerne because they got lost on the way back from the Lion memorial. Everything else was pretty lovely until the bus ride back. Janis had announced in the morning that the bus' air conditioning wasn't working, but there was a "super cold" alternative that he didn't want to activate until the ride home because, once started, it couldn't be turned off? Well, on the ride back, the regular (broken) a.c. was running full force. Approximately 30 minutes into the ride, the bus was still 80.4° F, according to the sensor on my phone. Everyone was miserable, so I asked about this "super cold" option mentioned previously. Janis said it "would take 5 minutes to set up", but never stopped to do so. For the entire ride, the inside of the bus never dropped below 78° F. Everyone climbed off of the bus exhausted and over heated. Why take a bus out if it isn't safe for your customers? Someone could have had a medical incident!
Operator response
Dear Guest,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are truly sorry that your visit to Lucerne and the bus ride back did not meet your expectations.
We take your feedback regarding group guidance very seriously. We normally aim to provide closer assistance at each site, and we regret that this was not the case during your tour.
Regarding the bus air conditioning, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We completely understand how uncomfortable the situation was, and we apologize for the experience you had.
We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you again and provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Best regards
5
59rachelleb
June 21, 2025 · via Tripadvisor
Great Experience
Our guide Angel was very informative, engaging and helpful. He made sure to inform us of our schedule and drop a location map so we would not miss anything when we were out exploring. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone visiting.
Operator response
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience and that Angel made your trip even more enjoyable. It's great to know he was informative, engaging, and attentive — exactly the kind of service we strive to provide.
Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you on another adventure soon!
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