By leah jones
Zurich is a beautiful city in the historic and nature-rich country of Switzerland. It's also a fantastic base for exciting destinations within easy reach. Here are some must-try day trips from Zurich.
Stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge, visit the Lion Monument and enjoy this charming old town only 45 mins by train from Zurich. Lucerne is also a gateway to Lake Lucerne as well as Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi.
Europe's largest waterfall, Rhine Falls is 50 minutes from Zurich by train to Neuhausen Rheinfall station. It offers breathtaking views, boat rides close to the falls and proximity to Munot fortress in Schaffhausen.
Experience snow-capped peaks year-round, walk across the Titlis Cliff Walk (a suspension bridge) or visit the Glacier Cave at Mount Titlis. All this is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Zurich.
This picturesque Swiss village, 1.5 hours from Zurich, is surrounded by rolling hills and Alpine landscapes. You can hike to the famous Äscher Cliff restaurant and visit the Wildkirchli caves.
Head to Jungfraujoch aka the "Top of Europe" in 2.5 hours by train. Journey through the Alps to the highest train station in Europe, with stunning glacier views and activities at the summit.
1-1.5 hours from Zurich is the Swiss capital of Bern, which boasts a UNESCO-listed old town, the Zytglogge clock tower, the Bear Park and views along the Aare River.
Basel, a bit over an hour from Zurich, is renowned for its art museums, vibrant old town and proximity to the borders of France and Germany.
Gruyères, 2 hours from Zurich, is known for its cheese and chocolate production. It offers a charming medieval town, the Gruyères Castle and the HR Giger Museum.
Situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this town is 1.5 to 2 hours from Zurich and a hub for adventure sports (like hiking canyoning and paragliding).
Visit the "Rose Town" of Rapperswil, known for its castle and rose gardens in about 40 minutes by car or train. While there, enjoy a leisurely cruise on Lake Zurich to Rapperswil.