Zurich lies on the north end of Lake Zurich, with the Limmatt river cutting directly through the old town. So doing a boat cruise is a great way to see some of the city and environs. It's also a fun way to visit nearby attractions like the Lindt Chocolate Factory.

The main ferry dock in Zürich is at Bürkliplatz, across the street from the tram stop.

Suggested cruises

• Limmat River Cruise - from Landesmuseum stop near Zurich main train station, it's a 55 min loop along Limmat river in the city and a bit in the lake.

• Short Lake Cruise (Kleine Seerundfahrt) - From Bürkliplatz ferry dock, it's a 90 min loop around the north end of Lake Zurich. In just 20 mins, you reach the Kilchberg ZH stop, which is a short walk from the Lindt Chocolate Factory. This boat runs daily year round, leaves about every 30 mins.

• Long Lake Cruise (Grosse Seerundfahrt) - 2h10 one way to Rapperswil, a medieval village with a castle at the south end of the lake.

Learn more in our Lake Zurich Boat Cruise article

Boat Tickets

Boats on Lake Zurich are part of the public transport system. If you have a valid public transport ticket for the corresponding zone, the ticket is valid for the boat, as well as trains, buses and trams in that zone.

Lake Zurich boats are free with the Swiss Travel Pass. Discount for Swiss Half Fare Card, Eurail Global Pass, and children age 6-15. Under 6 ride free.

If you buy the Zürich Card, it includes the Limmat river cruise and all short lake cruises as far south as the Thalwil and Erlenbach stops.

You can buy tickets:

• ticket office at the Bürkliplatz ferry dock

• SBB mobile app or SBB.ch

• on the boat if there is no ticket machine or office at the dock