Zurich is a fantastic hub for exploring Switzerland’s stunning scenery and charming towns. Its strategic location makes quick getaways easy, whether you’re after snow-capped peaks, tranquil lakes, or Swiss towns full of history. We love the 2-day tours that combine iconic sights with authentic experiences and comfortable logistics. For instance, the 2-Day Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Tour from Zurich offers a chance to ascend one of Europe’s highest peaks, walking through a glacier and taking in breathtaking alpine views. Meanwhile, the 2-Day Mt Rigi Tour from Zurich lets you enjoy panoramic vistas and relaxing mineral baths, perfect for unwinding after a day on the mountains. Both tours combine scenic travel with memorable activities, making them great choices for different tastes.
These trips are perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, immersive Swiss experience without packing multiple destinations into one day. Whether you prefer glacier walks and train journeys or mountain hikes and lakeside leisure, there’s a tour here for you. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these carefully selected options, helping you decide which suits your style and interests.
What’s on this list?
Our selection includes mountain adventures, cultural explorations, and luxury leisure options, all designed for a 2-day format from Zurich. We cover iconic destinations like Jungfraujoch and Mt Rigi, and include tours with different focuses such as scenic train rides, glacier walks, mineral baths, and charming Swiss towns. For a comprehensive view, visit the 2-Day Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Tour from Zurich and the 2-Day Mt Rigi Tour from Zurich.
1. 2-Day Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Tour from Zurich: Interlaken or Grindelwald
This tour is a crown jewel of Swiss mountain experiences. At around $684.47 per person, it offers an unforgettable journey through the Bernese Oberland, with an overnight stay in either Interlaken or Grindelwald. The highlight is reaching Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” via the Eiger Express gondola and a historic cogwheel train. The ride takes you through breathtaking landscapes, culminating in standing at Europe’s highest railway station. You’ll also walk through a glacier, explore the Ice Palace, and enjoy panoramic views from the station’s viewing platforms.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of a scenic train journey and authentic alpine activities, like walking through a glacier and visiting the ice tunnels. The overnight in a 3-star hotel adds comfort to this adventure, giving you a chance to relax in the mountain air. The reviews praise the organization and stunning scenery—many mention it as a “must-do” when visiting Switzerland.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a classic Swiss mountain trip with the thrill of reaching Jungfraujoch, this tour offers incredible value for its comprehensive itinerary and comfortable overnight stay.
2. 2-Day Mt Rigi Tour from Zurich Including Mineral Baths and Lake Lucerne Cruise
Priced at about $597.84, this tour blends stunning mountain vistas with relaxation at the Kaltbad Mineral Baths. It starts with a scenic coach ride through the Swiss countryside to Weggis, where you hop aboard an aerial cable car and then take Europe’s first cogwheel railway up to Mount Rigi. The summit offers sweeping views of the Alps and the surrounding lakes. During your time on top, you can hike, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of mountain exploration and spa relaxation. After descending, you have free time in Lucerne to explore the town’s charming streets and lakeside atmosphere, plus a visit to the mineral pools for some soothing thermal waters. Many travelers appreciate the well-paced itinerary and the opportunity to unwind in the mineral baths.
Guests describe the views as “amazing” and the experience as “perfect for a romantic getaway,” especially with the optional mineral baths to relax after a day of hiking and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a mix of mountain scenery, outdoor activity, and wellness, perfect for couples or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with relaxation.
3. From Zurich or Lucerne: 2-Day Jungfraujoch Tour
This option, costing approximately $658 per person, is designed for travelers wanting a flexible itinerary with the choice of staying overnight in Interlaken or Grindelwald. It features a scenic drive through the Bernese Oberland, with opportunities to explore Interlaken or Grindelwald at leisure before ascending to Jungfraujoch. The tour includes a gondola ride to the Eiger Glacier and a cogwheel train to the “Top of Europe.” You’ll also have the chance to walk through the Ice Palace, a fascinating glacier tunnel.
The inclusion of free time in charming towns allows for personal exploration, shops, and cafes. Reviews note some logistical issues with baggage handling but praise the breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to stay overnight in the mountains.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace and enjoy a scenic overnight in the Alps with an iconic Jungfraujoch experience.
4. 2-Day Alps Tour from Zurich: Mt Pilatus and Mt Titlis
For around $722.34, this tour offers a combination of two famous Alpine peaks, but it’s somewhat more limited in the scenery experience than the previous options. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of Lucerne before heading to Mt Pilatus via a spectacular aerial gondola and cogwheel railway. In addition, you’ll visit Mt Titlis, ride the IceFlyer, explore the glacier cave, and enjoy scenic boat cruises. It’s a packed schedule meant for those who want to see multiple highlights.
While the reviews are generally positive, with some calling it the “highlight of the Zurich trip,” some find the itinerary a bit rushed, especially if you want more time at each site. The tour is best suited for those wanting to cover multiple mountains in a short time, but it may feel too quick for some.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers eager to see both Pilatus and Titlis within two days, especially if they enjoy a fast-paced, sightseeing-focused trip.
5. Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Titlis 2-Day Tour from Zurich
This around-$695 tour combines the same peaks as the previous but emphasizes spending the night in Lucerne, giving you more time to explore. It features a cable car ride up Mt Pilatus, a visit to the ice cave on Mt Titlis, and a glacier park. The focus here is on experiencing both mountains with a more relaxed pace and an overnight stay that allows for more in-depth exploration, making it a good choice for those who dislike rushing.
People appreciate the comfortable hotel accommodation and the opportunity to enjoy the lakeside city of Lucerne. Reviewers note that the tour includes a visit to a glacier cave and ice park, adding unique features to the classic mountain experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a more relaxed itinerary with time to explore Lucerne and enjoy the mountains without feeling hurried.
How to Choose Your Swiss 2-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you’re after spectacular glacier views and don’t mind a bit of a climb, the Jungfraujoch tour is a top choice. For relaxation combined with mountain scenery, the Mt Rigi tour with mineral baths offers a gentle mix. Want to see multiple peaks but prefer a slower pace? The Lucerne-based tours with overnight stays give you more flexibility.
Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited availability or during peak seasons in summer and winter. Check whether your selected tour includes hotel accommodations, meals, or additional activities like the Ice Palace or lake cruises.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a majestic train journey to Jungfraujoch, a relaxing mountain and spa experience at Mt Rigi, or a mountain-hopping adventure on Titlis and Pilatus, Zurich offers excellent options. For a full Swiss experience packed into just two days, the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe tour is hard to beat; if you prefer more time in a charming lakeside town, then the Rigi or Lucerne options are perfect.
Remember, many of these tours include overnight stays, so plan ahead to maximize your time and enjoy Zurich’s spectacular surroundings. Booking early helps ensure you get the date and itinerary that suits your travel plans. Whichever you choose, your Swiss adventure from Zurich promises unforgettable scenery and authentic experiences.
