Mt Rigi (1798 m) is a spectacular mountain viewpoint near Lucerne, a popular excursion for both tourists and locals.

You can easily reach the viewpoint by a cogwheel mountain train, either from Vitznau (our preferred) or Arth Goldau. Many people start by riding a boat from Lucerne to Vitznau, making for a full day outing.

At the top, you can wander around the viewpoint, enjoying panorama views of mountains and lakes in all directions. Just below the viewpoint, there's a restaurant with a large outdoor terrace.

After enjoying the views at the top, ride train back down to Vitznau. You can also optionally do a short hike partway down the mountain.

Plan to spend about 1 hour at the top, about 3-4 hours including mountain train, more if you plan to eat lunch, hike or do other activities.

How to get there

By boat from Lucerne: For most travelers, we recommend the "Classic Round Trip," which starts with a boat ride on Lake Lucerne to Vitznau. Then transfer to the mountain train and ride up to the Rigi Kulm viewpoint. Learn more.

By bus: If you are staying near Rigi (in Vitznau, Weggis, or Gersau), you can take a short bus ride to Vitznau, Station and transfer the mountain train.

By car: You can park directly to the Vitznau mountain train station. There are a couple parking garages in the area. We usually park at Altdorfbachweg 6, 6354 Vitznau. Alternatively, you can use the Rigi train from Arth Goldau, parking at Chräbelstrasse 12, 6410 Arth, which is bit more convenient. But we much prefer the views from the Vitznau train.

Tickets

The mountain trains and boat ride are free with the Swiss Travel Pass, Tell Pass, and SBB GA / Day Pass, no extra fee. Discount with Swiss Half Fare Card.

Without a pass, you can book Rigi Classic Round Trip with Boat from Lucerne or just Rigi Day Pass for Mountain Trains.

Opening times

The Rigi mountain trains run year round. The trains run hourly every day. Check current schedule.

Other activities

If you like to hike, you can hike from Rigi Kulm on panorama trail to the cliff walk. Then hike over to Rigi Kaltbad station and catch the mountain train down to Vitznau.

For families, there are two playgrounds at the Rigi Kaltbad-First station, halfway down the mountain. On your way down from Rigi Kulm, you could get off the train at this top and visit the playgrounds. Then later get back on the train and continue riding down to Vitznau.

If you want more relaxation, you can visit the Rigi Kaltbad mineral baths, with an infinity pool overlooking Lake Lucerne.

More info

Rigi website: www.rigi.ch

Current conditions: webcam • weather • trail status

More details: Read our post about visiting Mt Rigi