Zurich isn’t just Switzerland’s financial hub; it’s a city full of surprises and unique experiences. Whether you want to indulge your sweet tooth at the Lindt Home of Chocolate, explore Swiss Alps on a day trip, or enjoy a scenic boat cruise, Zurich offers something for every traveler. We especially love the Lindt Chocolate Museum because it combines education with endless chocolate tastings — perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth or an interest in Swiss craftsmanship. Plus, the city’s blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication makes it an excellent base for exploring beyond.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most popular and highly-rated tours in Zurich, from cultural city explorations to spectacular mountain adventures. Our goal is to help you decide which experience fits your interests, schedule, and budget best. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, there’s something here that will make your visit memorable.
Quick Overview
Zurich’s top tours span a range of interests — from city highlights and walking tours to luxury cruises and mountain excursions. You can learn about Zurich’s historic streets, sail on Lake Zurich, or venture into the Swiss Alps with full-day trips to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Mount Pilatus, or Titlis. Foodies will enjoy the Lindt home of chocolate, and those who love scenic landscapes can opt for the Rhine Falls or the Engelberg and Lucerne day trips. Each experience offers a unique way to see and taste Switzerland.
Now, let’s explore these tours in detail.
1. Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket
At number one, the Lindt Home of Chocolate offers a sweet journey into Switzerland’s most famous confection. For around $21 per person, you’ll spend about two hours exploring multimedia exhibits that trace chocolate’s origins, manufacturing, and cultural importance. The highlight is the unlimited chocolate tastings which make this tour a real treat. You’ll marvel at the 9-meter high chocolate fountain and follow the process from bean to bar in a modern facility. It’s perfect for families, chocolate lovers, or anyone wanting a fun, interactive experience. Reviewers praise the educational aspect and the generous samples, with many calling it “must-do” when in Zurich. For a flavorful, guilt-free indulgence, this tour hits the sweet spot.
Bottom Line: A fun, educational, and delicious experience that’s especially great for families or chocolate fans wanting a taste of Swiss craftsmanship.
2. Zurich: Day Trip to Grindelwald, Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen
Number two takes you into the stunning Bernese Oberland on a full-day adventure. For 12 hours, the Day Trip to Grindelwald, Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen offers a comprehensive look at the iconic Swiss Alps. You’ll see the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks and enjoy panoramic mountain views. Highlights include exploring the charming village of Lauterbrunnen with its famous waterfalls, and discovering the “Glacier Village” of Grindelwald. The tour includes scenic bus rides, free time in Interlaken and Grindelwald, and a guided experience that balances guided commentary with moments to explore on your own. Reviews rave about the guides and the breathtaking scenery, with many mentioning the cable car ride up the mountain as a standout. This is ideal for nature lovers who want a taste of everything the Alps have to offer.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to see Switzerland’s classic mountain scenery in one day, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and mountain lovers.
3. Zürich: City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit
Number three combines a city sightseeing tour, boat cruise, and a visit to the Lindt Chocolate Museum. For $98, this 5.5-hour experience showcases Zurich’s highlights — from the Old Town’s winding alleys to the panoramic views from Zürichberg. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Zurich, offering fantastic perspectives of the city and surrounding mountains. The tour also includes a guided visit to the Lindt Museum, where you can sample chocolates and learn about Swiss cocoa craftsmanship. Reviewers highlight the seamless combination of land, water, and chocolate — a perfect mix for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview with a sweet twist.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour that provides both cultural sights and scenic views, topped off with chocolate tasting.
4. From Zurich: Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls
Number four is a half-day trip to two of Switzerland’s most scenic spots. The Rhine Falls is Europe’s largest waterfall, with deafening roars and the thrill of an optional boat ride. Afterward, you’ll explore the medieval town of Stein am Rhein, famous for its well-preserved buildings and frescoed facades. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a taste of nature and history without a full-day commitment. Many reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and the well-organized itinerary. It’s an ideal escape for those craving dramatic waterfalls and a charming Swiss village in one afternoon.
Bottom Line: A scenic half-day adventure combining natural wonder and medieval charm, suited for travelers short on time but hungry for variety.
5. From Zurich: Bus Day Trip to Heidiland and Liechtenstein
Number five offers a 7.5-hour journey through Switzerland’s alpine scenery. The Day Trip to Heidiland and Liechtenstein takes you across Ricken Pass, with stops in Rapperswil’s Old Town and Vaduz’s capital. You get free time in Vaduz to explore the castle and museums, plus a visit to Heidi’s Village or Werdenberg, depending on the season. Reviewers enjoy the driver’s humor and the ease of seeing Lichtenstein without complicated travel plans. This trip is perfect for those wanting to experience small-country charm and alpine views in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in a mix of Swiss and tiny Principality culture, with flexibility to explore the capitals and alpine landscapes.
6. Zürich: City Highlights Tour by Coach, Cable Car, and Ferry
Number six is a 4.5-hour guided exploration that covers Zurich’s main sights by bus, boat, and cable car. The tour includes a scenic ferry ride across Lake Zurich, a cable car trip to Felsenegg, and stops at landmarks like Bahnhofstrasse and Lindenhof. The guides tend to be very informative, with reviews praising the views over the Alps and the city’s highlights. The tour is perfect for those who want a quick but rundown of Zurich and its surroundings, combining urban sightseeing with nature.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a multi-modal experience that includes scenic water and mountain views in one morning or afternoon.
7. From Zurich: Lucerne & Mount Pilatus Day Tour
Number seven offers a full-day escape into the Swiss countryside. For $214, the Lucerne & Mount Pilatus takes you through scenic drives, a lake cruise, and a cable car ride to the summit of Mount Pilatus. The highlight is the rotating gondola and the opportunity to play in the snow at the summit. Reviewers note the stunning scenery and the engaging guide, with some mentioning limited time in Lucerne. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of city charm and alpine adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, full-day excursion that combines lakeside towns, mountain views, and scenic rides.
8. From Zurich: Rhine Falls Coach Tour
Number eight is a straightforward half-day trip to Europe’s largest waterfall. The Rhine Falls Coach offers a comfortable ride with free time to view the falls and enjoy optional boat rides. Many reviews mention the friendly guide and the spectacular scenery. It’s an easy, reliable option for anyone wanting a quick nature fix without much fuss.
Bottom Line: An accessible half-day outing perfect for those with limited time or traveling with family.
9. Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours
Number nine is a classic introduction to Zurich’s Old Town. For just $15, the 2-hour Walking Tour takes you past St. Peter’s, the Town Hall, and historic alleyways. Guides often receive high praise for their storytelling and local knowledge, making this a great orientation for first-time visitors. It’s perfect if you want a quick but insightful walk through Zurich’s most historic neighborhoods.
Bottom Line: An affordable, engaging way to get acquainted with Zurich’s history and architecture in a short amount of time.
10. Zurich: Lindt Home of Chocolate Guided Tour & Entry Ticket
Number ten offers a shorter but equally rich experience at the Lindt Chocolate museum. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll see the production process, learn about chocolate’s European journey, and taste pralines and chocolate ingredients. With a high rating of 4.8/5, many reviewers mention the engaging guide and plentiful samples. It’s ideal for those with limited time but eager to indulge.
Bottom Line: A quick, tasty, and informative tour that’s perfect for chocolate lovers who want a sweet break.
11. From Zurich: Engelberg, Titlis, and Lucerne Day Tour
Number eleven is a full-day adventure to the mountains and lakes. For $200, the Engelberg, Titlis, and Lucerne tour offers breathtaking views from the Rotair cable car, with stops in the charming town of Engelberg and the city of Lucerne. The Cliff Walk and the snow playground are highlights. Many mention the natural beauty and the excellent guide, though some say the time in Lucerne could be longer. Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and families, it combines scenic mountain vistas with city exploration.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded mountain and city tour, ideal for those wanting a full-day Swiss experience.
12. From Zurich: Rhine Falls Coach Tour
Number twelve is a shorter version of the Rhine Falls visit. It offers a reliable, scenic 3.5-hour trip with plenty of free time to enjoy the falls. Reviewers appreciate the smooth organization and the falls’ spectacular views. It’s a great option if you want to see one of Europe’s biggest waterfalls without committing to a full day.
Bottom Line: A convenient half-day trip perfect for families or travelers with limited time.
13. Zurich eTukTuk Private Tour with Cheese Fondue and Wine
Number thirteen is a fun, intimate experience combining sightseeing with Swiss cuisine. The eTukTuk Private Tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes a cheese fondue and a bottle of Swiss white wine. Riding around Zurich in an electric tuk tuk, you’ll visit landmarks like the Grossmünster and Bahnhofstrasse while enjoying local flavors. Guests mention the friendly guide and the unique perspective of the city from this eco-friendly vehicle. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, tasty adventure.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable, personalized way to discover Zurich’s sights while savoring Swiss delicacies.
How to Choose Your Perfect Zurich Tour
When selecting a tour, think about your interests and time constraints. If you’re passionate about chocolate, the Lindt Museum or guided chocolate tour might be ideal. For outdoor lovers, the mountain trips or Rhine Falls offer unforgettable scenery. If you want a quick intro, the Old Town walking tour provides a compact overview.
Consider your budget and activity level. The city highlights tours offer a mixture of land and water, while full-day trips like the Lucerne & Mount Pilatus provide more immersive mountain experiences. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons like summer, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Zurich’s array of tours ensures there’s something for every type of traveler. History buffs will appreciate the city tours and old-town walks, nature lovers the mountain and waterfall trips, and foodies the chocolate and culinary excursions. Two standout options are the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum for its unique tasting experience, and the full-day trip to Lucerne and Mount Pilatus for panoramic mountain vistas.
To make the most of your time in Zurich, plan ahead and book early. Whatever your interests, these tours promise memorable ways to experience Switzerland’s most dynamic city and its surroundings.