A single-day escape from Zurich that pairs Old Town walking with a boat crossing to Rapperswil’s rose gardens and the tranquil Ufnau Island. Expect about seven hours of mixed transit, easy trails, and lakeside views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of Zurich's stone-clad Bahnhof into a morning that smells faintly of coffee and lake spray. The tour threads through Old Town alleys where medieval façades lean over cobblestones, then eases onto a regional train that rolls past villages dipping into the water. By midday the boat rocks you across Lake Zurich; the breeze tests your jacket and the Alps stand like a slow-moving horizon.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours (approx.)
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable walking 3–5 miles with stairs and short uneven sections; moderate endurance required for a full-day outing.
Wildlife
History
Rapperswil grew as a medieval trading and defense center; Ufnau has hosted monks and pilgrims for centuries, with a church site dating back to the Middle Ages.
Conservation
Lake Zurich benefits from decades of water-quality improvements and local efforts to limit shoreline development; stick to marked paths and pack out waste to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Zurich to Rapperswil Roses & Ufnau Island: City to Lake Escape today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early to avoid crowds
Morning trains and the early boat crossing reduce time spent waiting and give softer light on the roses and island shores.
Bring layered wind protection
Lake crossings can be breezy even on warm days; a light windbreaker keeps you comfortable on deck and island paths.
Carry Swiss francs and a contactless card
Small cafés on Ufnau and in Rapperswil accept cards, but cash is handy for smaller vendors and tips.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Streets and island trails are mostly paved or compact dirt with occasional stairs—good soles matter.
Comfortable walking shoes
Support and traction for cobblestones, garden paths, and island trails.
Light waterproof/wind jacket
Wind and sudden showers are common on the lake in spring and shoulder seasons.
spring
Daypack with water bottle
Keep hydration and snacks handy between stops and during the boat crossing.
summer
Compact camera or phone with power bank
Capture lakeside panoramas and close-ups of the rose gardens without running out of battery.