Day Trips from Zurich
1. Zurich to Grindelwald
Things to see and do in Grindelwald
- Mannlichen:Take the cable ride to the Mannlichen mountain peak as you discover the glorious splendorof the surroundings.
- Gletscherschlucht Glacier Ravine:Situated in the Grindelwald canyon, this place offers umpteen treasuresof natural exotic beauty. Walkthrough the caverns or move ahead through the narrow pathway to getsplendidviews of the glaciers and the waterfall.
- Grindelwald Museum: The museum features a widespread collection of paintings, documents, mountaineering gears, tools and so much more. Additionally, there are enough resources to explore the history of the region.
- Bachalpsee Lake: While on a visit during summer, the placid lake and the surroundings is just the right place to have a stroll. Don’t forget your lenses to capture some of the erratic views of the lush banks, still clear water, and the iconic Alpine ranges.
Adventure Sports in Grindelwald
You can do much more than skiing in this small Swiss city.
- Snow Bicycle: Locally known as Volgomel, riding the wooden snow bicycle is an exclusive winter activity here.
- Sledging: The winter activity for everyone, sledging in Faulhorn istheleast risky asyou enjoy the ride and views of the lush green backdrop of the Alpine beauty.
- Skiing: There is are two famouslocations for skiing here
- Grindelwald First ski resort-best place for skiing and mountain cart riding
- Kleine Scheidegg-Mannlichen down ski route
The long stretch of snow-blanketed mountainous ranges isfull of exquisite panoramic views all around.
2. Zurich to Interlaken
Interlaken isabeautiful place manifesting diversetourist destinations. Apart from the scenic beauty of nature around the lakes, the historical museum boasting collectibles from the 14thcentury, there is so much to see and do during your day trip.
Things to see and do in Interlaken
- Boat Tours in Brienz and Thun:Both these lakes are excellent places to enjoy kayaking, pedalos, and row boating. Ride the historic Lotschberg, the steamer built in 1914 to get the best glimpses of Lake Brienz and adjacent areas.
- Harder Alpine Wildlife Park:Home to some of the rare species like ibex, and marmots, it is of great interest for zoologists. Don’t miss the Harder-Klum situated 1322m high to feel the thrill of the funicular climb.
- Hohematte Park: Relax in a joyful mood alongside the stretch of vibrant flowerbeds, get the best views of Jungfrau, and visit the garden with a flower clock, and so much more during your trip.
- Augustinian Monastery: Originally established in 1133, the building got its Gothic cloister and the bell tower in the 14thcentury.
3. Zurich to Lucerne
Situated beside Lake Lucerne, this picturesque city is incredible and full of tourist attractions. Private chauffeured tours from Zurich to Lucerne cover around 66kms and should take not more than 90 minutes.
Things to see and do in Lucerne
- Old Town (Altstadt):It is amazing to see the beautifully preserved intact medieval buildings located to the north of Reuss River, in Weinmarkt, Hirschenplatz, and other parts of the city.
- Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrucke): Built in 1333, it is the oldest existing covered wooden bridge in the European continent. Watch out for the 17th-century paintings on the roof interiors.
- The Church of St. Leodegar (Hofkirche Luzern):The 17th-century Roman Catholic Church is located to the north of the Alps. The Gothic Church boasts the largest preserves of art history of the German Renaissance period.
- Old Swiss House:Savor the delicious meals here during your lunch break.
Don’t miss the glimpsesof the Lion Monument, the memorabilia of Swiss Guards murdered by the Tuileries Palace revolutionaries, the iconic baroque church of Jesuitenkirche, and the Town Hall Clock.
4. Zurich to Jungfraujoch
The easiest way to reach Jungfraujoch from Zurich is by train ride via Bern. Needless to say, this is the longest of all the day trips from Zurich. Believe it or not, it’s worth taking all the effort to change routes, and travel so long.
During the journey of 2½ hours (approx. including changes), soak yourself in panoramic views of the largest glacier in Europe, snow-clad Jungfraujoch mountains of the Alpine ranges, and so much more.
Things to see and do in Jungfraujoch
- Sphinx Observatory Terrace: Enjoy the views of the Aletsch glacier, and mountain peaks of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau from the open viewing deck.
- Ice Palace:A remarkable work of art, the glass-like translucent ice figurines alongside the entire snow tunnel all melting at -3 degree Celsius.
- Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven: Chocolate can’t get creamier than this. Taste this version created with love at the Lindt Chocolate Machine. There areenough luscious chocolate preps to relish your sweet-tooth.
- Top of Europe Shops:This place boasts a rich collection of souvenirs and local items ranging from warm clothes to Victorinox pocket knives, and much more.
- Snow Fun Park:Indulge in the sheer pleasure of some winter and snow adventure sports.
5. Zurich to Lauterbrunnen
Nestled at the base of the snowbound Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger Mountains, the valley of Lauterbrunnen is abode to 72 marvelous waterfalls.
Besides sightseeing, this is one place for adventure sports lovers. Murren is your destination if you fancy gliding through the zig-zag descents.
While on a visit, don’t miss your trip to Roman Catholic Churches in the picturesque Wengen Village.
Things to see and do in Lauterbrunnen
- Mount Schilthorn: If skiing is your favorite winter sport, planning a winter vacation here is truly rewarding. Delve in the adventure sporting activity through the safety-compliant ski route in the Jungfrau mountainous region stretching to a distance of 3kms.
- Murren:Yet another scope for adventurous journeys, you can do paragliding here as you enjoy the breath-taking glimpses of the snowbound mountains, lush greenery, and so much more.
- Waterfalls:This is one reason, every visitor seeks to include the Lauterbrunnen itinerary in the list of tours from Zurich. Even if you are running short of time, don’tmiss your chance to visit the best of these:
- Trummelbach Falls-The only accessible glacier waterfall in the region allows easy access from elevators, platforms, and tunnels with dimmed lights. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts captivating views of the conflux of 10 glaciers-fed waterfalls.
- Murrenbach Falls-Feeding voluminous flow during summers is the highest waterfall in Switzerland.
- Staubbach Falls-Designated amongst the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe and Switzerland’s second-highest waterfall, the aesthetic view of falls from the hanging valley is truly majestic.
- Others in this must-watch list include: Reichenbach falls, Staldenbach falls, Talbach falls, and Spiessbach falls.
Conclusion,
I hope you enjoyed reading this article. By now, you may have gathered enough information to plan your schedule for day trips from Zurich. If you want more information, discover our other article on what to see in Switzerland in 1 day.
Get going in a blissful mood. Oh yes, don’t forget to carrythe clothing, gears, and note the safety tips before departure.
Happy Journey!
Maya Keller
Maya Keller is a passionate traveler and writer focused on exploring and sharing the best of Zurich and Basel in Switzerland. With a love for uncovering hidden gems and sharing practical travel tips, Maya aims to inspire fellow adventure seekers to experience the beauty and culture of Swiss cities.
