Zurich might be famous for its banks and Bahnhofstrasse shopping, but it’s also surprisingly rich in water-based experiences. With Lake Zurich at its doorstep, the city offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that reveal a different side of Switzerland’s largest city. Whether you want a quick scenic ride, a full day exploring mountains and lakes, or a private tour with bespoke options, Zurich has it all. Think of cruising past sailboats on a peaceful lake or combining a boat trip with a guided city walk and even a visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate. These options show off Zurich’s blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making the city a perfect destination for water lovers.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience, the Zurich: City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit (rated 4.5/5 from over 3,200 reviews) is a favorite. It hits the highlights of the city, with a cruise on Lake Zurich that’s included, plus a chocolate tasting at Lindt. For those wanting a comprehensive day, the 3-in-1: Zurich Walking Tour – Cruise on the Lake – Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg (rated 5.0/5 from nearly 200 reviews) offers a balanced mix of city exploration, relaxing boat rides, and mountain views. Smaller groups and personalized itineraries are available in private options, and scenic day trips to Lucerne or Mount Rigi give you a full taste of Switzerland’s natural splendor.
Below, we’ll explore each of these tours, pointing out what makes them special, practical tips, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you’re after a laid-back boat cruise, a guided city walk, or a combination of both, there’s something here for every water-enthusiast and city explorer alike.
1. Zürich: City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit
At number 1, this tour combines city sightseeing, a lake cruise, and a chocolate treat. It’s a solid choice if you want a full day with variety—covering Zurich’s major landmarks, the scenic waters of Lake Zurich, and the sweet indulgence at Lindt. The tour starts with a bus tour of Zurich, including views from Zürichberg, then a guided walk through the Old Town, with time to admire churches and historic buildings. The highlight is a cruise on Lake Zurich, where you’ll see the city from the water’s calm surface. The finale is a visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate, where you can sample Swiss chocolates and learn about their history. This tour is rated 4.5/5 with rave reviews about knowledgeable guides and smooth transitions. It’s best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of city and leisure, and don’t mind a 5.5-hour commitment.
Bottom line: Great for first-timers who want an all-in-one Zurich experience with plenty of tasty moments.
2. 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour – Cruise on the Lake – Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg
Number 2 is a perfect choice for those who want to pack a lot into a single day. This 3-in-1 tour combines a guided walking tour of Zurich’s highlights, a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Zurich, and a trip up the Felsenegg cable car for panoramic views. The walking portion covers the Old Town, Bahnhofstrasse, Lindenhof, and other key sites, with a guide sharing personalized insights. The boat cruise offers a peaceful perspective on the city and lake, with admission and transport included—saving you money. The highlight is riding the cable car to Felsenegg, where you can see as far as the Alps on clear days. This tour earns a perfect 5.0/5 from almost 200 reviews, praised for its flexibility, value, and engaging guide.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers eager to experience Zurich from multiple angles, with a mix of walking, cruising, and mountain views.
3. Mt Rigi and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Boat Ride
Number 3 shifts gears to an Alpine adventure. This full-day tour takes you from Zurich to Mount Rigi, often called the “Queen of the Mountains,” and the charming town of Lucerne. The tour includes riding an aerial cable car to absorb sweeping mountain vistas, then descending via cogwheel train. You’ll also enjoy a boat cruise across Lake Lucerne, with free time to explore Lucerne’s historic old town. The views from Mount Rigi, with lakes and snow-capped peaks, are unforgettable. The trip lasts about 9.5 hours and is highly rated (4.5/5). It’s perfect for those who love mountain scenery, easy access to nature, and don’t mind a longer day out. Many reviews mention the breathtaking scenery and the value of combined transport.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers wanting a full-day escape into the Swiss Alps with stunning lake views and free time in Lucerne.
4. Zurich: Open Top Bus Sightseeing Tour with Optional Cruise
Rated 4.1/5 from over 500 reviews, this quick 1-hour open-top bus tour offers a fast overview of Zurich’s highlights. You’ll see Lake Zurich, the Swiss National Museum, and the FIFA Museum—all from a comfortable open-air bus. It’s a practical way to get oriented, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed ride with commentary. The tour runs frequently, making it flexible for different schedules. While it’s a short trip, it provides good value at $38 per person and a chance to decide which parts of the city to explore further.
Bottom line: Best for travelers with limited time who want a quick, guided introduction to Zurich.
5. Zurich: City Sightseeing Tour with Lake Cruise
This 3.5-hour tour combines a bus tour of Zurich with a Lake Zurich cruise. It covers main sights like Bahnhofstrasse, the Old Town, and the university district, with stops at key viewpoints like Züri Leu. The cruise on crystal-clear waters offers tranquil views of the city and its villas, providing a relaxing way to see Zurich from the water. It’s rated 4/5 from over 600 reviews, with many praising the smooth organization and scenic boat ride. It’s suitable for travelers who want a moderate-length tour that balances city highlights and lakeside beauty.
Bottom line: Good for those seeking a combination of sightseeing and peaceful lake views in a manageable time frame.
6. From Zurich: Day Trip to Lucerne with Optional Yacht Cruise
Rated 4.4/5, this tour offers a full day exploring Lucerne, with optional yacht cruising on Lake Lucerne. Traveling round-trip from Zurich, you’ll see the Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, and have free time to wander the Old Town. The optional yacht cruise adds a special touch, allowing you to enjoy the lake’s scenic beauty from a luxurious vessel. The tour is practical and flexible, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a self-guided feel with professional transportation. Many reviews highlight the ease of travel and the picturesque scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury on the water, at a budget-friendly price.
7. Zürich with Cruise and Lindt Home of Chocolate (private)
For a more exclusive experience, this private tour allows you to customize your visit to Zurich. It includes a guided city walk, a 30-minute cruise on Lake Zurich, and a visit to the Lindt Chocolate Museum. Rated 4.9/5 from 8 reviews, it’s perfect for travelers wanting privacy, flexibility, and a tailored itinerary. The tour can be adjusted to your preferences, making it a great choice for special occasions or travelers who prefer intimacy over group tours.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a private, flexible day with personalized touches and premium experiences.
8. Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich Including Lake Lucerne Cruise
Rated 4.0/5, this tour offers a classic day trip to Lucerne with a scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne. It includes a brief city tour, giving you time to see the Chapel Bridge and Old Town, plus a relaxing cruise aboard the luxury yacht “Saphir”. The 9-hour experience is well-rated for its comfortable transportation and picturesque scenery. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a no-fuss, straightforward trip that combines city highlights with water views.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a reliable, scenic day out with limited fuss and plenty of free time.
9. Zurich Private Walking Half-Day Trip with optional Lake Cruise
This private 4-hour tour focuses on walking through Zurich’s downtown and hidden corners. It includes landmarks like the Zurich Opera House, Grossmünster, and Bahnhofstrasse, with optional lake cruising. Rated 4.0/5, it’s ideal for travelers who want an intimate, detailed look at Zurich’s most iconic sites while avoiding the crowds. The flexibility of private guiding makes it suitable for all fitness levels, and the optional cruise adds a relaxing water element.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who prefer personalized attention and a more in-depth city experience.
10. Zurich Highlights City Tour with Lake Cruise
Rated 3.5/5, this is a shorter, more economical option offering the essentials. It includes a coach tour with stops at Enge Harbor, Old Town, and a lake cruise. Many reviews appreciate the scenic views from the water and the comfortable coach. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time who want a quick overview without sacrificing the water experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for budget-conscious travelers seeking a brief but scenic glimpse of Zurich.
11. Zürich: Stein am Rhein, Rhine Falls & Lake Boat Cruise
Number 11 combines majestic Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, with Zurich’s historic Old Town. This 8-hour tour includes walks at Rheinfall and a visit to Stein am Rhein, a charming medieval town. The boat cruise on Lake Zurich adds a relaxing water element. Rated 4/5, it’s great for travelers who want to experience Switzerland’s natural wonder alongside cultural sights, making it a full day of diverse attractions.
Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts who enjoy varied landscapes and scenic waters.
12. Lindt Home of Chocolate & Lake Zurich Boat tour
Rated 3.4/5 from 5 reviews, this short but sweet tour combines a visit to the Lindt Chocolate Museum with a Lake Zurich boat ride. It’s a tasty and scenic experience, especially if you love chocolate and peaceful waters. You’ll learn about Swiss chocolate history, see the impressive chocolate fountain, and enjoy a relaxing cruise.
Bottom line: Best suited for sweet tooth travelers who want a quick, delightful combo of chocolate and water views.
13. From Basel: Private Zurich Tour, Cruise and Lindt Chocolate
This private day trip from Basel includes a guided walk, a scenic boat cruise on Lake Zurich, and a visit to the Lindt Chocolate Museum. With a 4.5/5 rating, it offers a personalized, leisurely experience for those coming from Switzerland’s neighboring region who want a full immersion into Zurich’s highlights and delights. It’s perfect for groups or couples seeking flexibility and privacy.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a tailored, full-day experience with exclusive access.
14. Zurich: Techno Dampfer Boat Rave with Moonbootica
Number 14 is an entirely different sort of water experience—a techno rave on a boat. It’s a 4-hour event on Zurich’s port, featuring DJ Moonbootica and a sunset party atmosphere. It’s more about nightlife and music than sightseeing, perfect for dance music fans or those who want to see Zurich’s waters in a lively, unconventional setting.
Bottom line: Not your average cruise—best for night owls looking for a unique party on the water.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Zurich
When picking a tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you crave a full day of sightseeing, the Zürich: City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit offers excellent value. For shorter visits, the Open Top Bus Tour or City Highlights with Lake Cruise are quick, practical options. If mountain scenery calls, the Mount Rigi and Lucerne Day Trip is unbeatable. Private tours are perfect if you want a tailored experience, especially if traveling with family or a partner. Always check for availability and book early, especially in peak seasons.
To sum it up, Zurich offers a diverse set of cruises and boat tours that cater to every taste—whether you want a quick water-based overview, an all-day mountain and lake adventure, or a private, customized experience. For lovers of Swiss chocolate, the Lindt Home of Chocolate is a must, while the scenic Lake Zurich cruises are ideal for relaxing and soaking in the views. The 3-in-1 tours combine city walking, boat rides, and mountain visits, making Zurich a surprisingly versatile water destination. Whatever your style, these tours promise to show you the city and its waters in a way that’s engaging, enjoyable, and distinctly Swiss. Be sure to book early to secure your spot—and enjoy Zurich from its most scenic perspective.