From Bern - Mt. Pilatus Heritage with a cruise on Lake of Lucerne Private Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Towering over the city of Lucerne like a monument to the Swiss wilderness, Mt. Pilatus is a must-visit for nature lovers. This stunning massif boasts several stunning peaks, set within a playground of soaring rock faces, lush rolling valleys, and a network of meandering emerald lakes. The tallest peak in the group, Mt. Pilatus, reaches a heady 2,132 meters above sea level and is beloved by visitors for its sensational views over the region. We'll take you to the heart of the sights, with opportunities to explore the Lake of Lucerne, Pilatus summit, and ride the famous dragon aerial cable cars.
Available options
From Bern - Mt. Pilatus Heritage with a cruise on Lake of Lucerne Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private local expert guide
All Fees and Taxes
Standard rail ticket (1st class ticket provided upon request)
Mt. Pilatus golden route pass (May to October)
Lake of Lucerne cruise ticket
Detailed itinerary
1
Your guide will greet you at your hotel, before whisking you away on a whistle-stop tour of the city.
2
Stop 2
From May to October, we will take the boat from Lucerne to Alpnachstad instead. While from November to April we will do a round cruise on the lake of Lucerne then board the train to Alpnachstad.
Arrived in Alpnachstad, take the cogwheel train where the engine will climb the foothills of Pilatus, taking you to the end of the steepest rack railway in the world. Admire the views over the Alps from 2,073 meters high, as your guide reveals the history, culture, and culinary delights of each area.
3
Stop 3
After a relaxed lunch, you will have the option to keep soaking up the stunning valley views from the restaurant or enjoy a leisurely hike to the summit of Mount Pilatus. The top of this famous peak offers a bird’s eye view of historic Lucerne and panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy the clean mountain air from the viewing platform, as you gaze out over an expanse of crystal clear lakes, lush green meadows, and rolling peaks and valleys.
Learn how Pilatus came to be haunted by legends of dragons, and why many believe the body of Pontius Pilate was laid to rest within its foothills.
4
Stop 4
Our descent from Mount Pilatus will take us aboard the iconic “dragon ride” aerial cable cart, where we will float back to earth suspended in a giant glass cabin. The windowed walls provide 360 views of the Lucerne region, and many compare the experience to flying. Enjoy an ever-changing perspective of the Alpine landscape, as historic Lucerne pulls back into focus as we approach the end of the line. The ride is a highlight of any trip to Mount Pilatus.
5
After a full day of adventure, your guide will return you safely to your hotel in Bern.
What's not included
Optional Lucerne visit - Provided upon request
Lunch at the Mt. Pilatus
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
About Bern
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene. With its charming arcades, picturesque fountains, and stunning views of the Alps, Bern offers a unique blend of history, nature, and modern Swiss life.
Top Attractions
Old Town of Bern
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring medieval architecture, arcades, and charming streets.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore
Bear Park (BärenPark)
A park along the Aare River where Bern's famous bears live in a natural habitat.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Bern Cathedral (Münster)
A stunning Gothic cathedral with a tower offering panoramic views of the city.
Architecture
1-2 hours
CHF 7 for tower climb
Swiss Parliament Building (Bundeshaus)
The seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly, featuring impressive architecture and guided tours.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (guided tours may require booking)
Einstein Museum
A museum dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern, showcasing his life and work.
Museum
1-2 hours
CHF 12
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rösti
A crispy potato pancake, often served as a side dish or main course with various toppings.
Dish
Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free
Fondue
Melted cheese served in a pot over a portable stove, dipped with bread.
Dish
Contains dairy, gluten (bread)
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served with Rösti.
Dish
Contains dairy, meat
Bernese Platte
A hearty meat platter featuring various cuts of pork, sausages, and other accompaniments.
Dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Popular Activities
Paragliding in Interlaken
Hiking in the Alps
Skiing in the nearby ski resorts
Boat trips on the Aare River
Visiting the Rosengarten
Enjoying a spa day
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to January
Summer offers pleasant weather and outdoor activities, while winter brings festive markets and skiing opportunities. Both seasons see higher tourist volumes.
15-25°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter)
59-77°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: German
- Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Bern is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, always be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of distractions and common scams
Getting there
By air
- Bern Airport • 7 km from city center
- Zurich Airport • 120 km from city center
By train
Bern Hauptbahnhof
By bus
Bern Bahnhof
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and frequent service with easy-to-use ticket system.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxi Bern, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Altstadt)
Länggasse
Bümpliz
Day trips
Thun
30 km from Bern • Half day to full day
A charming medieval town with a beautiful castle, scenic lake, and historic old town.
Interlaken
45 km from Bern • Full day to overnight
A popular adventure sports hub nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by the Alps.
Gruyères
60 km from Bern • Half day to full day
A picturesque medieval town known for its cheese, chocolate, and the famous HR Giger Museum.
Festivals
Berner Buskers Festival • June
Christmas Markets • December
Gurtenfestival • July
Pro tips
- Use the Bernmobil app for real-time public transport information
- Visit the Clock Tower for a unique experience and panoramic views
- Explore the city's hidden courtyards and passages for a glimpse into its medieval past
- Try local specialties like Rösti and fondue at traditional restaurants
- Take a boat trip on the Aare River for stunning views of the city
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
