Rigi — Queen of the Mountains★★
The Rigi (1,798 m) was Europe's first tourist mountain: Since 1871, the continent's first cogwheel railway has been running to the summit. Queen Victoria, Mark Twain, and Victor Hugo were thrilled — and you will be too.
★★★ Rigi Kulm
The summit offers a panoramic view over 13 lakes and the Alpine range. In föhn conditions, the view extends to the Black Forest and the Jura. Rigi is less steep and less touristy than Pilatus — ideal for hiking: From the summit to Rigi Kaltbad (1 hour, easy), further to the Felsenweg (1.5 hours, scenic) or down to Weggis by the lake (2 hours, through forests and alpine meadows).
Cogwheel train from Vitznau (boat from Lucerne, 1 hour): 38 CHF one way, 72 CHF return. Or from Arth-Goldau (train from Lucerne, 25 min): 36 CHF one way. Included in the Swiss Travel Pass!
★★ Rigi Kaltbad & Mineral Bath
Halfway up is Rigi Kaltbad with the Mineral Bath & Spa designed by star architect Mario Botta: Outdoor thermal pool (35 °C) with views of Lake Lucerne. Wellness at 1,400 meters — unique. Admission 25 CHF (3 hours).
💡 Tipp
The Rigi is fully included in the Swiss Travel Pass (cogwheel train + boat) — while Pilatus offers only a 50% discount. If you can only visit one mountain and have the Swiss Travel Pass, choose Rigi. For a more spectacular experience (steepest cogwheel railway, higher summit): Pilatus.
