Mt. Rigi, called the “Queen of the Mountains,” is one of Switzerland’s most famous peaks located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug in the Lucerne region. It is renowned for its breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views and over 120 kilometers of hiking trails that traverse the mountain.

The ascent to the summit is an unforgettable journey requiring transfers: you start with an aerial cableway ride from the town of Weggis up to the mid-station Rigi Kaltbad, which takes about 15 minutes. During this ride, you are treated to stunning views of Lake Lucerne’s sparkling waters.

At Rigi Kaltbad, there are several restaurants and cafés where visitors can enjoy local dishes and refreshments while soaking in the mountain and lake scenery before continuing their journey.

From Rigi Kaltbad, you board the historic cogwheel train—the oldest in Europe—for a 10- to 15-minute ride to the summit, Rigi Kulm. Along this route, there are multiple designated viewpoints where you can pause for photos and to admire the majestic Swiss Alps, surrounding lakes, and charming villages.

At the summit, you’ll find visitor facilities including restaurants serving regional cuisine amid spectacular natural surroundings. There are also numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty for exploring the area on foot.

After exploring the summit, the descent by cogwheel train leads you to the lakeside village of Vitznau. From there, you can enjoy a scenic paddle steamer cruise across Lake Lucerne to the historic city of Lucerne, where you’ll have free time to explore the Old Town and famous Chapel Bridge.

Mt. Rigi offers unique experiences year-round: summer brings pleasant hiking weather and boat rides, while winter transforms the mountain into a popular ski and snow activity destination.

No matter the season, Mt. Rigi promises a rich blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural charm that leaves visitors with lasting memories.

• Travel from Zurich by car or bus to Weggis or Vitznau

• Take the aerial cableway from Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad mid-station

• Transfer to the cogwheel train to the summit at Rigi Kulm

• Descend by cogwheel train to Vitznau

• Take a boat cruise from Vitznau to Lucerne

• Return to Zurich by bus or car

• Plan your timing carefully to make smooth transfers between the cableway and cogwheel train

• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for outdoor activities and variable weather

• Stop at the restaurants and viewpoints at Rigi Kaltbad to rest and enjoy the scenery

• Summer (April–September) is ideal for hiking and boat cruises

• Winter (December–February) is best for skiing and snow activities

• Book tickets in advance during peak seasons and holidays

Admission Fee:

• No entrance fee (charges apply for cableway and cogwheel train rides)

Opening Hours:

• Open year-round according to the cableway and cogwheel train operating schedules