Andermatt is a picturesque mountain resort and one of Switzerland’s hottest spots thanks to investments from Andermatt Swiss Alps AG (ASA) and Vail Resorts, Inc. With its excellent hiking trails, skiing, winter sports facilities, advantageous location in the heart of Switzerland, year-round tourism, and natural beauty, it’s no wonder that tourists love visiting Andermatt.
Although Andermatt has so many activities to offer, those who spend several days there might still want to take day trips from the region. Below are some suggestions for the best day trips from Andermatt for those based there.
Typically, these day trips are located one to two hours away from Andermatt by train.
This article discusses the 10 best day trips from Andermatt. Let’s go!
10 Best Day Trips from Andermatt
1. Göscheneralp
Göscheneralp, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and a turquoise-colored lake, is a stunning day trip destination in Canton Uri. This place is ideal for those who seek nature and tranquility. It takes half an hour to drive from Andermatt to Göscheneralp.
The Göscheneralp Region in Canton Uri is a hidden gem in the Swiss Alps that offers a blend of natural beauty, peaceful ambiance, and outdoor activities. It is easily accessible by road from Andermatt, which is approximately 16 kilometers to the east.
A number of mountains surround this area, including the Sustenhorn (3,502 meters), Dammastock (3,630 meters and the highest in the Urner Alps), and Galenstock (3,586 meters). On the eastern flank of the Dammastock, you’ll find the Damma Glacier (Dammagletscher in German), a 2.5-kilometer glacier. This region is almost entirely within the Aarmassif geologic massif, with gneiss-like foliated Aare granite rock. The scenery is stunning, with its rugged mountain landscape, glacial streams, and meadows.
Göscheneralp is one of the most beautiful places I have seen in Switzerland and truly well worth a visit.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Göscheneralp |
| * Göscheneralp Reservoir Dam * Lake Göscheneralpsee * Hiking Trails |
If you would like to learn more about Göscheneralp, check out our article Picture-Perfect Göscheneralpsee Lake in Göschenen, Switzerland.
How do you get from Andermatt to Göscheneralp?
The best way to get from Andermatt to Göscheneralp is by car because the bus does not run regularly. If the bus runs to Göscheneralp, I suggest that you head over in the morning. You can take the train from Andermatt to Göschenen. In Göschenen, take the bus to Göscheneralp, Dammagletscher. The total travel time from Andermatt to Göscheneralp is 53 minutes (in the morning) to 1 hour 23 minutes (in the afternoon).
2. Furka Pass
One of the most scenic day trips you can take from Andermatt is to Furka Pass. Situated just 20 kilometers away, this mountain pass connects the cantons of Uri and Valais. It takes approximately 26 minutes to reach Furka Pass by car from Andermatt, making it easily accessible for a memorable day trip.
Furka Pass, located near Andermatt, is one of the most famous climbs in the Swiss Alps along with Nufenen Pass (between Valais and Ticino), Flüela Pass (between Davos and Lower Engadine), Bernina Pass (between St. Moritz and Val Poschiavo), and Albula Pass (between Thusis and La Punt in Engadine).
Furka Pass is steep and snowy in winter. Therefore, it’s only open during the summer, usually from late May to early November.
The journey from Andermatt to Furka Pass is a breathtaking one, with serpentine mountain roads and stunning vistas. Once you reach Furka Pass, at 2,429 meters, you will be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You will also be able to see the Rhône Glacier, which is the source of the Rhône River that flows through Lake Geneva and southeastern France before reaching the Mediterranean Sea.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Furka Pass |
| * Furka Pass * Rhône Glacier * Glacier Grotto * Hotel-Restaurant Belvédère |
If you would like to learn more about Furka Pass, check out our article The Legendary Furka Pass in Switzerland.
How do you get from Andermatt to Furka Pass?
The best way to get from Andermatt to Furka Pass is by car because the bus does not run regularly (only twice a day in summer).
If the bus runs to Furka Pass, I suggest that you head over in the morning. You can take Bus 681 from Andermatt to Furka Passhöhe at 8:30 a.m. A convenient option for your return journey from Furka Pass to Andermatt is the bus departing at 1:40 p.m. The total travel time from Andermatt to Furka Pass by bus is 38 minutes.
3. Bellinzona
Bellinzona, 82 kilometers south of Andermatt, is the perfect day trip if you are looking for something different. With its three castles and a distinctly Italian-like lifestyle, it offers a refreshing contrast to Andermatt’s mountainous surroundings.
Located just 90 minutes away from Andermatt, Bellinzona makes for an excellent day trip due to its rich history, impressive architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and warm and inviting ambiance. Not only will you get to explore a distinctively different destination, but if you’re visiting in late winter, early spring, or autumn, you can also enjoy milder and more comfortable weather.
There are many reasons to visit Bellinzona in Switzerland. This is a remarkably beautiful and historically significant area. Bellinzona is famous for three castles (Castelgrande, Montebello, Sasso Corbaro). Since 2000, Bellinzona has been listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List for its castles, defensive wall, and ramparts.
Its impressive medieval architecture and the role it has played in managing the entire valley of Ticino make Bellinzona a town worth visiting.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Bellinzona |
| * Bellinzona’s Old Town * 3 Castles of Bellinzona |
If you would like to learn more about Bellinzona, you can check out this article: Bellinzona: Everything You Need To Know.
How do you get from Andermatt to Bellinzona?
To get from Andermatt to Bellinzona, you can ride the regional train to Göschenen. In Göschenen, take the connecting Interregio train to Bellinzona. The total travel time from Andermatt to Bellinzona is 1 hour 31 minutes.
4. Lucerne
Lucerne, just 72 kilometers away from Andermatt, is a great choice for a day trip. A must-see destination for travelers, Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities, boasting breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, a fascinating history, and a wealth of cultural attractions.
The city of Lucerne is one of the most popular tourist spots in Switzerland. In Lucerne, you’ll find everything you’d want in a typical Swiss city. The beauty of its fjord-like blue lake, charming old town, and mountains are unbeatable. For those who want to spend some time in Lucerne city, there’s so much to see: the Transport Museum, the Lion Monument, the Rosengart Collection, and Chapel Bridge, just to name a few.
You can get around Lake Lucerne with the Lake Lucerne ship company. Various basins and bays provide exhilarating and changing views of the landscape on the lake – Stansstaad, Weggis, Buochs, Gersau, and Uri.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Lucerne |
| * Lion Monument * Chapel Bridge * Transport Museum (Verkehrshaus) * Rosengart Collection * Glacier Garden |
You can read more about other stunning places to visit near Lucerne such as Bürgenstock, Engelberg, Vitznau, and Weggis in this article 10 Beautiful Places Near Lucerne. And for those who wish to visit the mountains near Lucerne, you can find out about the Closest Mountains To Visit From Lucerne.
How do you get from Andermatt to Lucerne?
To get from Andermatt to Lucerne, you can ride the regional train to Göschenen. In Göschenen, take the Interregio that will bring you directly to Lucerne. If the direct train to Lucerne is not available, you may also travel with the Interregio train to Arth-Goldau, before changing to the connecting Intercity train to Lucerne. The total travel time from Andermatt to Lucerne is 1 hour and 51 minutes.
5. Brig
Covering a distance of 68 kilometers, Andermatt and Brig are only an hour and 43-minute drive away from each other by car. Brig is one of the best day trips from Andermatt due to its picturesque town, the Stockalper Palace, and its thermal baths.
Brig is a charming town located in the Swiss Alps known for its picturesque landscapes, historic buildings, and access to nearby ski resorts. The historic town of Brig lies in the Upper Valais region of Switzerland. Brig, also officially known as Blig-Glis, is located in the Rhone Valley, 691 meters above sea level.
The most famous attraction in Brig is the Stockalper Palace. The Brigerbad Thermal Baths, the largest open-air thermal baths in the Alps, are perfect for those who love to soak and relax.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Brig |
| * Brig’s Old Town * Stockalper Palace * Brigerbad Thermal Baths * World Nature Forum, Naters |
If you would like to learn more about Brig, check out our article Brig, Switzerland: Where It Is and What You Need to Know.
How do you get from Andermatt to Brig?
There are direct trains that run from Andermatt to Brig once per hour. The total travel time from Andermatt to Brig is 2 hours and 3 minutes.
6. Mount Rigi
In addition to enjoying breathtaking views of nearby lakes and mountains, Rigi is an easy day trip from Andermatt. If you want to experience the Swiss Alps, Mount Rigi is well worth the 2-hour journey.
Rigi is one of the most visited mountains in the entire Central Switzerland region. It lies surrounded by three lakes – Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz.
Rigi is popular for its spectacular viewpoints overlooking the lakes and mountains. Most people can also visit it by going up from one town by cable car or train and going down by another, as there are numerous possibilities to visit the mountain. From Rigi, you have breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and towns nearby.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Rigi |
| * Rigi Kulm * Rigi Kaltbad Mineral Bath * Hiking Paths in summer * Skiing and sledding in winter |
How do you get from Andermatt to Mount Rigi?
To reach the summit of Mount Rigi, there are several routes to choose from, but the quickest option involves taking the regional train to Göschenen, connecting to Arth-Goldau, and then boarding the cogwheel railway that ascends to Rigi Kulm. This trip takes 2 hours and 12 minutes to 2 hours and 57 minutes from Andermatt, depending on which train you catch.
7. Lugano
With its picturesque lakeside setting, vibrant city life, and unmistakable Italian influence, Lugano provides a delightful day trip away from Andermatt’s mountainous backdrop. Explore its charming streets, indulge in delectable cuisine, and immerse yourself in the Mediterranean ambiance of Lugano located 111 kilometers south of Andermatt.
Located in the sunny Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, Lugano is one of the most popular cities to visit in Switzerland. The lush gardens, the charming old town, the shopping, the mild climate, and the delicious food have made it a popular getaway, especially in spring and autumn.
Lugano provides a nice contrast to the German-speaking region of Andermatt. An interesting mix of Swiss and Italian culture can be found here; life is relaxed and enjoyable.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Lugano |
| * Chiesa Santa Maria Degli Angeli Church * City Center and Via Nassa * Catedrale San Lorenzo * LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura * Monte San Salvatore * Monte Brè * Lake Lugano |
How do you get from Andermatt to Lugano?
To get from Andermatt to Lugano, you can ride the regional train to Göschenen. In Göschenen, take the connecting Interregio train to Bellinzona. In Bellinzona, change to the connecting train to Lugano. The total travel time from Andermatt to Lugano is 2 hours and 1 minute.
8. Zurich
Zurich’s numerous museums, shops, and activities make it one of the most vibrant day trips from Andermatt.
Zurich is within easy reach from Andermatt, with a travel time of approximately 90 minutes by car.
As Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich offers plenty of restaurants, bars, museums, and shops. Here you will also find beautiful churches such as Grossmünster and Fraumünster. My personal favorite family outing here is the Zoo, which, in my opinion, is the best zoo in the country.
There are many things that you can do in Zurich so if you would like to visit somewhere larger and livelier than Lucerne, I highly recommend that you give it a try.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Zurich |
| * Landesmuseum Zurich * Grossmünster Church * Uetliberg Mountain * Lindenhof * Lake Zurich * Bahnhofstrasse for shopping |
If you would like to plan a day in Zurich, you can read our article 25 Best Things To Do In Zurich, Switzerland.
How do you get from Andermatt to Zurich?
To get from Andermatt to Zurich, you can ride the regional train to Göschenen. In Göschenen, take the Interregio that will bring you directly to Zurich. If the direct train to Lucerne is not available, you may also travel with the Interregio train to Arth-Goldau, before changing to the connecting Intercity train to Zurich. The total travel time from Andermatt to Zurich is 2 hours and 5 minutes.
9. Chur
Chur, renowned for its Alpine charm and direct connection with the Glacier Express, is the ideal option for an unforgettable day trip from Andermatt. Explore the picturesque old town with its narrow streets and well-preserved buildings, visit the impressive Chur Cathedral, or embark on a scenic hike in the surrounding hills.
Located in the eastern part of Switzerland, Chur is the capital of Graubünden. It’s also the gateway to the Graubünden Mountains. Chur is also the starting point for the Bernina Express, one of Switzerland’s most scenic trains. It is also a stop in the Glacier Express route that goes from Andermatt.
The old town is a must-see. You’ll find churches like St. Martin’s Church and St. Maria Himmelfahrt Cathedral. You can do lots of other things in this picturesque city. This alpine city has about 500 shops, 130 restaurants, and a bunch of museums.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Chur |
| * Old Town of Chur * St. Martin Church * Brambrüesch * Rhaetian Museum * Bernina Express * Glacier Express |
If you plan to visit Chur, you can check out this article: How to Spend 1 Day in Chur, Switzerland.
How do you get from Andermatt to Chur?
The best way to get from Andermatt to Chur is to take the Glacier Express that leaves Andermatt at 10:54 AM from Platform 2. This train will take you from Andermatt to Chur on the panoramic train directly. The travel time from Andermatt to Chur with the Glacier Express is 2 hours and 31 minutes.
If you cannot catch this connection or you were unable to reserve a seat, you may also go to Disentis/Mustér, before changing to a connecting train to Chur. The travel time from Andermatt to Chur via Disentis/Mustér is 2 hours and 34 minutes.
10. Einsiedeln
Nestled in the scenic Swiss countryside, Einsiedeln is famous for its majestic Einsiedeln Abbey, a renowned pilgrimage site and architectural gem. With its tranquil atmosphere, rich history, and natural beauty, Einsiedeln offers a rewarding and memorable experience for a day trip from Andermatt, only 80 kilometers north.
Einsiedeln lies in the canton of Schwyz, Switzerland. Known for its Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln, one of Switzerland’s most important pilgrimage sites for Roman Catholics. The monastery was founded around 835 CE by the Benedictine monk and hermit Saint Meinrad.
Einsiedeln was also an important station on the Way of St. James during the Middle Ages and Early Modern Era.
Einsiedeln Abbey is the largest baroque masterpiece in Switzerland. It is a well-known pilgrimage site and a religious and cultural gathering place for many people. Built between 1704 and 1780 according to Kaspar Moosbrugger’s plans, it is also home to a venerated Black Madonna statue.
| Don’t miss these attractions in Einsiedeln |
| * Einsiedeln Village * Einsiedeln Abbey * Einsiedeln Christmas Market * Hoch-Ybrig |
If you would like to read more about Einsiedeln, you can check out our articles:
How do you get from Andermatt to Einsiedeln?
To get from Andermatt to Einsiedeln, you can ride the regional train to Göschenen. In Göschenen, take the Interregio train to Arth-Goldau, before changing to the connecting train to Biberbrugg. In Biberbrugg, take the regional train to Einsiedeln. The total travel time from Andermatt to Einsiedeln is 1 hour and 56 minutes.
Summary: Best Day Trips from Andermatt
For those who are staying for a couple of days in Andermatt, Switzerland, and wish to venture out to other places, we hope that this list was helpful.
To summarize, if you are looking for large cities with lots of activities, Zurich, Lucerne, and Lugano are great choices. Meanwhile, Brig and Chur are two alpine cities that can give you shopping and sightseeing opportunities.
Bellinzona and Einsiedeln offer a charming and relaxed atmosphere, making them perfect choices for those seeking smaller, more laid-back towns. Both destinations boast historical buildings and picturesque surroundings, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of these delightful locations.
Göscheneralp and Furka Pass offer some of the most picturesque landscapes for photographers. Lastly, Mount Rigi is the most suitable choice for those who want to visit the mountains.
Related Posts
- Zurich to Andermatt Train: All You Need To Know
- Glacier Express Route: From Zermatt to St. Moritz
- Picture-Perfect Göscheneralpsee Lake in Göschenen, Switzerland
- Beautiful Lake Arnisee in Uri, Switzerland
- Closest Ski Resorts To Zurich Airport
- Top 10 Snow Sure Ski Resorts in Switzerland
Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.
Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.