What is the cheapest way up Mount Pilatus?

In summer, the self-guided Silver Round Trip; in winter, the Kriens gondola and cableway return; with a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card, a mountain ticket bought at the valley station at 50% off. The Silver is cheaper than the Golden because the train replaces the boat. A Kriens return is cheaper than any round trip because it uses one side of the mountain only. Guided tours cost more because you are also paying for coach and guide. Children aged 0 to 5 ride free. I print no figures; the live rate for your date is in the widget below.

Summer, no passSilver Round Trip

WinterKriens return

With a rail passStation ticket, 50% off

Children 0–5Free

Groups of 10+30% off, on site only

Insider tip

Do not chase the discount with a GetYourGuide ticket; the packages are full fare and no pass applies. Pass holders buy at Alpnachstad or Kriens; everyone else books the Silver and gets the cogwheel reservation thrown in. The whole cost structure is on how much does it cost.

Live rate, Silver Round Trip

Frequently asked questions

Is the Silver Round Trip cheaper than the Golden?

Yes. The two loops are identical except the Silver uses the S5 train instead of the boat, and the boat is the extra cost. The Golden page explains what the boat adds.

Is it cheaper to buy Pilatus tickets at the station?

Only if you hold a pass: Swiss Travel Pass, Half Fare, GA, Eurail and Interrail get 50% at the desk. Without a pass the packaged round trip is the simpler buy. See the pass page.

Is Pilatus free for children?

Children aged 0 to 5 ride free on the self-guided tickets sold here, and older children ride free with the SBB Junior or Children’s Co-Travelcard.