Lake Zurich (Zürichsee) Tours
111 Reviews
Fed by clear glacial waters that flow down the Swiss Alps, the crescent-shaped Lake Zurich (Zurichsee) forms the scenic backdrop to Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, which spreads along the western tip of the lake. Measuring 25 miles (40 kilometers) in length and 1.9 miles (3 kilometers) in width, this alpine lake offers an easily accessible escape to nature for those based in the city, with plenty of swimming spots, hiking routes, tranquil islands, and picturesque mountain scenery.
The Basics
Most everyone who visits Zurich will come across the lake at some point. Perhaps the best way to fully appreciate Lake Zurich’s scenic beauty is on a boat tour; options range from leisurely sightseeing cruises to high-adrenaline watersports excursions. Some city tours incorporate a boat trip across the lake, as well as a ride on the Felsenegg cable car, which leads to a 2,624-foot (800-meter) viewpoint overlooking the lake. If you’d rather stay on solid ground, land-based tours from Zurich often combine stops at lake-edge villages, such as the medieval old town of Rapperswil, with trips to storybook mountain towns like Appenzell, or even Vaduz in the neighboring microstate of Liechtenstein.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a swimsuit to try out the lake’s swimming spots (May through October).
- Water-based excursions range in duration, from short round-trip outings to leisurely half-day cruises.
- The Felsenegg cable car is wheelchair accessible. Private sightseeing tours can be customized to meet the needs of wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Lake Zurich is easily accessible by public transportation. To get to Zurich’s Lake Promenade park, take the tram (5, 6, 7, 8, or 13), train (S, S8, S24, or SN8), or bus (161 or 165) to Zurich Wollishofen station, then walk the short distance to the waterfront. Alternatively ride the tram to Burkliplatz (2, 5, 8, 9, and 11) at the end of Bahnhofstrasse, or Bellevue (2, 5, and 9), which brings you to the edge of Lake Zurich where the Limmat river begins.
When to Get There
The best season at Lake Zurich is summer, when warmer temperatures make boating, swimming, and sunbathing feasible. Boats do not run during the winter months (mid-October to early April), though you’ll find ice-skating rinks at the lake’s edge during this time.
What to See and Do on Lake Zurich
Among the most popular spots to visit on the lake is Rapperswil, a small town famed for its medieval old center and its public gardens, where a bounty of roses blossom. For the sweet-toothed, there is the Lindt & Sprungli chocolate factory in Kilchberg on the southern lake edge, not far from Zurich, while the sunny stretch along the northeast—known as the Gold Coast (Goldkueste) is dotted with lakeside mansions owned by Europe’s elite.
Address: Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland
Admission: Free
41 Tours and Activities to Experience Lake Zurich (Zürichsee)
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Zurich City Highlights Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride
Explore Zurich on a half-day sightseeing tour of the city. Climb aboard a luxury coach for a panoramic tour of top sights like the Swiss National Museum, the Zurich Opera House and the Old Town, and then take to the water for a scenic ferry crossing of Lake Zurich. Marvel at the grand architecture of Fraumünster Church and the Bahnhofstrasse and then gaze at sweeping Alpine vistas as you ride a cable car to the vertiginous Felsenegg vantage point.
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From
$70.95
From
$70.95
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg
Tick off three top experiences at a reduced price with a 3-in-1 Zurich package. Discover the city’s major landmarks on a walking tour, then relax your feet on a lake cruise, before riding a cable car to Felsenegg’s summit for views that reach as far as the Alps. Along the way, benefit from your small-group guide’s personalized insights.
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From
$97.99
Price varies by group size
From
$97.99
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

WOW Zurich Tour: 6 hours on shore, on water, in the air!
Gain a new perspective on Zürich on a small-group excursion that includes a ferry ride across Lake Zürich, a cable car journey during the summer, and a tour of the Old Town. Visit landmarks including Lindenhof and Grossmünster, gaining insight into the city’s history and culture from your local guide.
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From
$97.99
Price varies by group size
From
$97.99
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Zurich Highlights Tour
Discover the spectacular sights of Zurich on a comprehensive 2-hour coach tour of the vibrant Swiss city. Cruise past legendary landmarks like the sophisticated Bahnhofstrasse and admire the shimmering surface of Lake Zurich as you listen to illuminating commentary from a knowledgeable guide. See, too, the sacred St Peter’s Church and the charming Old Town, and then ride the Dolderbahn railway to the undulating hills of the Zurichberg district. Select either a morning or afternoon departure to suit your schedule
If you want more, upgrade your tour at the 1pm option and add an 1-hour cruise and a visit to the Chocolate Lindt Shop!
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From
$40.21
From
$40.21
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Zurich City Tour Experience
If you want to experience all of the outstanding things Zurich has to offer in a single sightseeing outing, this is the tour package for you. Experience the town on this unique city tour with detailed commentaries in one of eleven languages: English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, and Hindi.
The air-conditioned Panorama bus takes you on a 100-minute round trip to the sights of Switzerland’s largest city. The route leads across the famous Bahnhofstrasse and the banking center of the lake with a view of the snow-capped mountains, part of the old town with its magnificent guild houses and the churches St. Peter, Grossmünster and Fraumünster. You’ll see the university quarter and the residential area Zürichberg, the National Museum and the Kunsthaus. At the two most scenic viewpoints we will make a short photo stop.
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From
$40.21
From
$40.21
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Private Tour: Zurich City Highlights
Discover the spectacular sights of Zurich on a private tour of the cultural Swiss city. Admire legendary landmarks and historical monuments like the Bahnhofstrasse and the charming Old Town while enriching your knowledge of the region’s rich history. See the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, the place Albert Einstein imparted his wisdom; browse the exhibits within the Swiss National Museum; and take a tranquil cruise on the shimmering surface of Lake Zurich. Customize the itinerary of this private tour according to your interests and receive the undivided attention of your personal guide.
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From
$428.63
Price varies by group size
From
$428.63
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

The Great Tour of Zurich
Enhance your sightseeing experience of Switzerland’s cultural capital on a half-day tour of Zurich and the quaint neighboring village of Rapperswil. With a knowledgeable guide, discover blooming rose gardens; see sweeping vistas of the snow-capped Alps; and stroll amid the verdant splendor of a deer park to see the majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Marvel at the ancient castle that reigns over the village of Rapperswil and then conclude your tour with a tranquil boat ride on Lake Zurich.
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From
$68.58
From
$68.58
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Zurich Tour Including Lake Cruise and Lindt Home of Chocolate
See the best of Switzerland's business and cultural hub on a half-day tour of Zurich. Follow your guide to the city's top attractions, including the shopping haven of Bahnhofstrasse, the Opera House, National Museum, and charming Old Town. Ride uphill by cogwheel train for panoramic views over the city and then take a 30-minute cruise on Lake Zurich. Top off the trip with a stop at the newly opened Lindt Home of Chocolate, where you can marvel at the world's highest free standing chocolate fountain. After an audio-guided tour through the museum, taste as much chocolate as your heart desires before returning by coach to Sihlquai Coach Parking.
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From
$82.77
From
$82.77
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Private Tour: Zurich Walking Tour
Receive the undivided attention of a private guide as you discover the spectacular city of Zurich on a 2-hour private walking tour. Admire popular attractions like Frauminster Church, with its prismatic stained glass windows, and gaze at the shimmering surface of Lake Zurich. See, too, the elegant Bahnhofstrasse and explore the charming Old Town while listening to captivating commentary from your insightful guide. Relish the freedom and flexibility of this private tour and customize the itinerary to suit your interests.
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From
$472.67
per group
From
$472.67
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

The Best of Zurich Including Panoramic Views in a Small Group Walking Tour
Discover the best that Zurich has to offer during this 3-hour small-group walking tour. Visit the city’s key landmarks such as Paradeplatz, Lindenhof, St. Peter’s Church, the Roman baths, and much more. Learn about the rich history of Zurich and Switzerland from your tour guide and enjoy the panoramic views of the Old Town from the Grossmunster Church.
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From
$57.64
Price varies by group size
From
$57.64
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Lake Zurich Sunset Boat Tour
Lake Zurich is at its most magical in the evening hours and this sunset boat tour from Zurich is the ideal way to soak up the scenery. Set sail on a private ship and devise your own itinerary as you cruise past the elegant lake houses and sandy beaches. Finally, sip champagne and nibble on fresh fruit as you watch the dreamy sunset over the Zurich skyline.
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From
$960.72
per group
From
$960.72
per group

Jungfraujoch private tour with a guide from Zurich by Helicopter and Limo
Private and unique day tour (incl. tour guide) to Jungfraujoch in the ❤️ of Switzerland with limousine and helicopter.
The view and adventure platform at 3454 meters above sea level, a majestic backdrop of ice, snow and rock with breathtaking far-sightedness. Only bookable here, an unforgettable experience.
You fly from the heliport Gsteigwiler with a magnificent view of the Jungfrau region directly to the Jungfraujoch (3454 Meter) Top of Europe. After an individual stay on the Jungfraujoch, travel back by Helicopter to Heliport Gsteigwiler (near Interlaken). incl. Transfer and guide from and to your Hotel in Zurich.
The feasibility of the helicopter flight is reserved. Despite the good weather, a flight can be canceled or postponed due to excessive wind or snow drifts on the Jungfraujoch. In this case, the tour can still be made by train (both ways). We do our best to bring you safely and comfortably to the Jungfraujoch.
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From
$2,192.28
Price varies by group size
From
$2,192.28
Price varies by group size

Discover Zurich from the air with a local pilot
Go on an unforgettable adventure and discover the beauty of Zurich in the most unique way... from a private plane!
You’ll see stunning views of Zürichsee,Grossmünster... and many more for you to find out with your very own pilot!
Your pilot is key to this adventure. They are sharing the flights' direct cost, not making a profit. They just love to fly and want you to understand their passion for aviation.
So be sure to meet your pilot directly at the airfield provided, as there are several private airfields around.
++Confirm weather conditions with your pilot before++ --> Access a local airfield --> Discuss the flight route together with your pilot --> Pre-flight check --> Up you go, enjoy the view from a whole new perspective!
The flight can depart between 9-17h, depending on the availability of the pilot, aircraft, and weather. Please let us know your flexible hours/days upon booking, and make sure that you've been in touch with us beforehand!
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From
$221.09
From
$221.09
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

From Zurich: The most beautiful insider spots in Switzerland (private 1-day tour)
OFFICIAL SWITZERLAND TOURISM MEMBER | Discover breathtaking insider spots of Switzerland with Myswisspanorama - privately with an environmental expert (MSc ETH Zurich).
HIGHLIGHTS:
● Discover beautiful hidden places and landscapes in one
private day trip in Switzerland.
● Get the unique chance to be a local environmental expert
(MSc ETH Zurich).
● Enjoy a delicious Swiss picnic in a breathtaking
Landscape.
● Buy Swiss chocolate from the
Swiss premium chocolate producer Läderach
If you have any wishes or needs, please let us know. We try everything to make your day unforgettable.
…More
From
$617.74
$154.45 savings
Price varies by group size
From
$617.74
$154.45 savings
Price varies by group size

Breathtaking Private Hike with an Environmental Expert (1 day trip)
Discover with an Environmental Expert (MSc ETH Zurich) the most beautiful hidden gems on a breathtaking private hike. From the pickup to the picnic and drop-off is everything organised for you. Family friendly guides.
HIGHLIGHTS:
✓ See Top natural hidden gems on a private hike in Switzerland
✓ Get the unique chance to be guided by a local environmental expert (MSc
ETH Zurich)
✓ Enjoy a delicious Swiss Picnic with a breathtaking scenery
✓ Every hike is tailored to your own fitness level & wishes
…More
From
$617.74
$154.45 savings
Price varies by group size
From
$617.74
$154.45 savings
Price varies by group size

Private tour to the most breathtaking insider spots in Switzerland (1 day)
Discover with Myswisspanorama breathtaking hidden gems of Switzerland - privately with an environmental expert (MSc ETH Zurich).
HIGHLIGHTS:
● Discover beautiful hidden places and landscapes on one
private day trip in Switzerland.
● Get a unique chance to see you from a local environmental expert
(MSc ETH Zurich).
● Enjoy a delicious Swiss picnic in a breathtaking
Landscape.
● Buy Swiss chocolate in the factory shop of the
Swiss premium chocolate producer Läderach
If you have any wishes or needs, please let us know. We try everything to make your day unforgettable.
…More
From
$1,434.24
per group
From
$1,434.24
per group

Private tour to the most beautiful insider places in Switzerland (2 days)
Cow milking on the Alp, swimming in a royal blue mountain lake, recharge your batteries under meter-high waterfalls - experience Switzerland in all its glory.
It is a unique opportunity to do a personalized private tour with a certified natural and swiss expert (ETH Zurich).
Thanks to our good know-how, you and your companions bring you to the places of your dreams.
…More
From
$3,310.76
per group
$827.69 savings
From
$3,310.76
per group
$827.69 savings

Private Airport Transfer Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich city centre - Minivan
Airport Transfer Service from Zurich Airport to
city centre of Zurich
Minivan with 8 or 9 seaters Standard: Volkswagon T5/T6 or equivalence - Ideal for family or casual usage
Minivan with 8 or 9 seaters Business: Mercedes Class V or equivalence - Ideal for business usage
Service available 7/24
…More
From
$120.35
per group
From
$120.35
per group

Flughafen Transfer
Best-transfers-zurich Airport
Limousine Service in Zürich
Transfer to and from Airport inside Switzerland and Neighbouring Countries.
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From
$104.06
per group
From
$104.06
per group

Chocolate Tour
How can we not know Lindt, Sprüngli, Läderach, etc.? But, what would you think if I told you that we can take you to small artisan chocolate stores in the heart of Zurich as good or better as the big chocolate companies.
Let yourself be surprised by local artisans, but with an incredible knowledge of chocolate, from traditional to the new wave
All aboard of a TaxiBike where your guide will tell you the history and the most interesting facts about chocolate.
…More
From
$146.41
per group
From
$146.41
per group

Visit a traditional chocolate factory in a TaxiBike: Zürich
Discover small artisan chocolate stores in the heart of Zurich, followed by a Sensory Tasting in a handcrafted chocolate factory. Only first-class cocoa beans from small producers are processed in this factory.
Let yourself be surprised by local artisans with an incredible knowledge of chocolate, they will be happy to pass on their knowledge and show you how to eat chocolate in such a way that allows you to enjoy to the fullest.
All aboard a TaxiBike!!!
…More
From
$222.30
Price varies by group size
From
$222.30
Price varies by group size

Paragliding from Zurich | Lucerne | Engelberg
The most booked experience to do in Switzerland with the most astonishing view of the alps!
Do you want to experience what the birds do? Dare to take the controls with the supervision of your pilot? Or simply relax and enjoy the bird eye view?
But tell us if you want more :D
…More
From
$253.63
From
$253.63
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Outdoor city escape game with guiding - Zurich
Our city tour is unique because we provide a self guided tour through playing an outdoor escape game.
The players use the app , so the only thing they need is a smartphone.
Also mood for playing, walking and solving riddles!
The tour supports English, Deutsch
…More
From
$49.41
per group
From
$49.41
per group
Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons

Zurich, Einsiedeln and Rapperswil by private vehicle and boat (Private Tour)!
Do you want to learn about one of Europe`s most important monasteries on the pilgrims route to Santiago de Compostela? Do you want to visit the beautiful town of Rapperswil with its medieval city walls and stunning views over the lake of Zurich? Do you want to relax on a boattrip on the lake, enjoying the views over the golden and silver coast, while tasting a nice glass of wine? And last but not least, do you want to know why Giaccomo Casanova never left Zurich while visiting the area? Then this is the right tour for you!
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From
$634.07
Price varies by group size
From
$634.07
Price varies by group size
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