Zurich is where many trips to Switzerland begin.
But the real question most travelers quickly ask is:
👉 Where should I go from Zurich — and which train ride is actually worth it?
The good news is that you don’t have to go far.
Within just a couple of hours, you can leave the city behind and find yourself surrounded by lakes, mountains, and some of the most scenic train journeys in Europe.
This guide helps you choose the best scenic train routes from Zurich, depending on your travel style — whether you’re looking for something easy, dramatic, or unforgettable.
Disclosure: Some links in this guide are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Why Zurich is the perfect starting point
Zurich is more than just Switzerland’s largest city — it’s one of the best-connected transport hubs in the country.
From here, you can easily reach:
- alpine destinations
- panoramic train routes
- lakes and mountain villages
👉 And the best part?
You can do it all without renting a car.
Zurich → Lucerne (The perfect first scenic trip)
If you’re wondering where to start, this is it.
In just about an hour, you’ll go from a busy city to a lakeside town surrounded by mountains.
What makes this route special:
- views of Lake Zurich and surrounding hills
- a smooth, relaxed journey
- a beautiful arrival in Lucerne
What to do in Lucerne
- walk across Chapel Bridge
- explore the old town
- take a lake cruise on Lake Lucerne
- visit Mount Pilatus or Titlis
👉 This is the ideal cenic train routes from Zurich if you want a simple, low-effort day trip with maximum reward
Zurich → Interlaken (Lakes + Mountains + Adventure)
Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s most famous destinations — and getting there by train is part of the experience.
The journey itself gradually builds:
- from countryside
- to lakes
- to full alpine scenery
What to do in Interlaken
- paragliding over the Alps
- skydiving
- visit Grindelwald and the First Cliff Walk
👉 Best if you want to combine scenic travel with real experiences
Zurich → Montreux (Lakeside + Vineyards + Romance)
This route takes you to the French-speaking part of Switzerland, along Lake Geneva.
You’ll pass:
- vineyards above Lake Geneva
- quiet lakeside towns
- mountains rising in the background
What to do in Montreux
- walk along the lake promenade
- visit Château de Chillon
- enjoy a Lake Geneva cruise
👉 A great choice for a more relaxed or romantic day
Zurich → St. Moritz (Gateway to the Bernina Express)
If you’re willing to travel a bit longer, this route is on another level.
You’ll experience:
- dramatic alpine landscapes
- spiral tunnels and viaducts
- part of the UNESCO-listed Albula line
What to do next
- continue on the Bernina Express toward Italy
- explore St. Moritz and the Engadin Valley
👉 Best for travelers building a multi-day scenic train trip
Zurich → Rhine Falls (Short but Impressive)
IIf you don’t have much time, this is the easiest scenic train routes from Zurich.
In about an hour, you’ll reach Europe’s largest waterfall.
What to do
- walk along viewing platforms
- take a boat close to the falls
👉 Perfect for a half-day trip
Do you need a Swiss Travel Pass?
FThis is one of the most common questions.
👉 If you’re planning multiple day trips, the answer is usually yes.
The Swiss Travel Pass:
- covers all these routes
- allows unlimited travel
- simplifies planning
💡 It’s especially useful if you want flexibility without constantly buying tickets.
FAQ — Scenic train routes from Zurich
What is the most scenic train routes from Zurich?
The Zurich → Lucerne route is the easiest scenic option, while the journey to St. Moritz offers the most dramatic views.
Can I do these trips without a car?
Yes — Switzerland’s train network is designed for exactly this.
Are scenic trains included in the Swiss Travel Pass?
Yes, most trains are included though some panoramic trains require reservations.
How many day trips should I plan from Zurich?
Most travelers choose 2–3 depending on their stay.
How to choose the right route ?
If you’re unsure, here’s a simple way to decide:
Short & easy: Lucerne or Rhine Falls
Adventure-focused: Interlaken
Relaxed / romantic: Montreux
Epic journey: St. Moritz
Zurich is just the beginning.
What makes Switzerland special is how quickly you can leave the city behind — and find yourself in a completely different world.
With the right scenic train routes from Zurich, even a single day trip can feel like a journey through the Alps.