Zurich is often seen as Switzerland’s financial hub, but it’s also a surprisingly good base for exploring Swiss nature on foot. Unlike the crowded trails of some other Swiss spots, Zurich offers a mix of accessible urban hikes and private guided adventures that take you into the heart of the Alps. Among our favorites is the Zurich: Hike Up Zurich’s Viewpoint & Enjoy Outdoor Raclette, which combines a quick hike with a truly local Swiss experience — a delicious raclette with panoramic views. It’s a perfect way to get a taste of Swiss culture without straying far from the city.
If you’re craving more remote, breathtaking scenery, our list also features full-day trips like the Interlaken: Private Hiking Tour Oeschinen Lake & Blue Lake or the From Zurich: Private Day Trip Hike to Turgquoise Oeschinensee, which take you into the Swiss Alps’ most iconic spots. For those with a bit more time, a private hike to Seealpsee Lake offers a peaceful alpine experience, while the Rophaien Mountain Hike provides a challenging day with stunning vistas of Lake Lucerne.
Here’s a quick overview of the top hiking and trekking options in Zurich, designed to suit different interests and schedules:
- An urban hike with local flavor and outdoor raclette experience (Tour 1)
- Full-day alpine adventures at Oeschinen Lake and Blue Lake (Tour 2)
- Private day trip combining hiking, cable cars, and boat rentals at Oeschinensee (Tour 3)
- Peaceful hike through Swiss meadows to Seealpsee Lake (Tour 4)
- Challenging mountain hike with panoramic views of Lake Lucerne (Tour 5)
1. Zurich: Hike Up Zurich’s Viewpoint & Enjoy Outdoor Raclette
Starting in Zurich’s main train station, this tour offers a 1-hour hike to Uetliberg, Zurich’s highest accessible viewpoint. You’ll follow a scenic trail that’s suitable for most fitness levels, culminating in panoramic views of Zurich, the Swiss Alps, and Lake Zurich. This isn’t just about the scenery — the highlight is the outdoor raclette experience, where you prepare your own cheese over an open flame with some simple, hearty Swiss ingredients. It’s a relaxed, fun way to connect with Swiss food culture in an outdoor setting.
What makes this tour special is its blend of easy hiking, local culinary tradition, and spectacular scenery. The guided walk helps you understand the area’s geography and history, while the raclette tasting adds a memorable touch. It’s ideal for travelers who want a short, accessible adventure with a tasty payoff — perfect for families or anyone wanting a taste of true Swiss hospitality.
Price at $124 per person for three hours, this tour offers great value considering the inclusion of a cultural experience and scenic hike. The relaxed pace and small group size foster genuine local connection. Bottom line: Perfect for those looking for a quick, authentic Swiss outing with a delicious twist.
2. Interlaken: Private Hiking Tour Oeschinen Lake & Blue Lake
This full-day tour takes you into the heart of the Bernese Alps to explore Oeschinen Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its deep blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop. The hike begins at the base of the cable car, where your guide personalizes the route based on your fitness and interests. You’ll enjoy the sights of wildlife, Alpine plant species, and impressive mountain vistas. After your hike, an optional visit to Blue Lake offers a quieter, equally breathtaking spot for photos and relaxation.
What sets this tour apart is its customization and expert guidance. Your guide will help you navigate trails that suit your energy and preferences, ensuring a comfortable yet adventurous experience. The inclusion of wildlife watching and the chance to learn about the local ecology makes it richer than a simple trail walk.
At €823 per person, it’s a significant investment, but the personalized experience and access to iconic Swiss scenery make it worthwhile. The reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and the awe-inspiring views. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want an immersive, private day in the Alps. It’s a true highlight for anyone craving a deep connection with Switzerland’s natural beauty.
Bottom line: An exclusive, flexible adventure into the Swiss mountains that balances stunning scenery with personalized attention.
3. From Zurich: Private Day Trip Hike to Turquoise Oeschinensee
For those wanting a full day of Swiss alpine splendor, this private trip combines a scenic van ride, optional cable car, and hiking around Oeschinensee — one of the most famous lakes in the Bernese Oberland. The tour starts at Zurich and includes a 2.5-hour van transfer to the mountain village of Kandersteg, where you can choose to hike or take the cable car up to the lake. The turquoise waters and towering peaks create a mesmerizing backdrop, perfect for photos and relaxation.
Highlights include the summer toboggan run, which is optional but adds a dose of fun for active travelers, and the chance to rent a rowboat to drift across the lake’s surface. Your guide will help you tailor the day’s pace, ensuring you enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Zurich, making it a comprehensive Swiss mountain experience packaged into one day.
Costing $954 for your group (up to 8 people), it’s a premium experience that offers flexibility and personal attention. Reviewers enjoy the customized itinerary and stunning vistas, calling it an unforgettable highlight. Ideal for nature lovers who want to combine hiking, stunning landscapes, and some leisure activities in one trip.
Bottom line: A personalized, scenic full-day adventure perfect for those who want a flexible, high-quality Swiss mountain experience.
4. From Zurich: Private Hike to Stunning Seealpsee Lake
This 6-hour private hike leads you through lush alpine meadows to the emerald waters of Seealpsee in the Appenzell Innerrhoden region. Starting from Zurich, your guide will customize the route to match your pace, ensuring a relaxed experience amid some of Switzerland’s most beautiful scenery. The hike includes a transfer, guided sections, and plenty of time to relax by the lake, take photos, or enjoy a snack.
What makes this trip stand out is its personalized approach and the chance to avoid crowds while experiencing genuine Swiss mountain tranquility. The water’s vibrant green contrasts sharply with the surrounding forests, creating picture-perfect moments. You’re also free to explore further or simply enjoy the peaceful setting.
Priced at $539 for a group up to 8, this private experience offers good value for a tailored day in nature. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and intimate atmosphere. It’s suited for hikers who want a private, flexible outing and enjoy the serenity of the Swiss Alps.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for private groups seeking a peaceful, customizable Swiss hiking day with spectacular views.
5. Zurich Day Trip: Rophaien Mountain Hike with Local Guide
This 10-hour guided hike takes you from Zurich to the Rophaien Mountain, offering panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Glarus and Uri Alps. Starting at Zurich Airport, you’ll be transported by group tour, then hike through forests and flower-filled meadows up to the summit. The trail features scenic ridges and forest paths, perfect for those ready for a challenge.
During the hike, your guide will share insights about the landscape, helping you enjoy the natural beauty while staying connected with unlimited 5G WiFi via your mobile hotspot. After reaching the summit, you can relax with a picnic and take in sweeping views, making this a rewarding experience for fit hikers craving a more demanding day.
At $312 per person, this tour balances cost and experience, offering an active day with spectacular vistas. It’s ideal for hikers comfortable with longer, more strenuous trails and seeking a full day of mountain adventure. Review mentions emphasize the breathtaking scenery and the peaceful trail away from crowds.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers looking for a challenging, scenic hike with excellent connectivity and panoramic mountain views.
How to Choose the Right Hiking Tour in Zurich
When selecting the best hike for your trip, consider your fitness level, time availability, and what kind of experience you want. For a quick taste of Swiss culture with scenic views, the Zurich: Hike Up Zurich’s Viewpoint & Enjoy Outdoor Raclette is ideal. If you’re after a full-day mountain adventure, options like the Oeschinen Lake private tour or the Seealpsee hike provide stunning scenery and flexibility.
For those who prefer a private, tailor-made experience, Tours 2, 3, and 4 stand out. Budget travelers and active hikers may enjoy the Rophaien Mountain Hike, while families or less strenuous hikers might prefer shorter or more relaxed options.
Book early, especially in the peak summer months, as these tours are popular with both locals and visitors. Consider combining a day trip with other Zurich activities for a well-rounded Swiss holiday.
To sum it up, Zurich offers a surprising variety of hiking and trekking adventures. From short scenic walks to full-day alpine explorations, there’s an option to match every traveler’s interest and fitness level. Whether you want a cultural experience with raclette or an adrenaline-filled mountain hike, these tours deliver memorable Swiss moments. For best results, plan ahead and secure your spot early to enjoy Switzerland’s stunning outdoors at your own pace.