Mt Pilatus Independent Experience from Lucerne

Start your Mt. Pilatus at the bus station next to the train staion of Lucerne (right in front of the Post). Take bus nr. 1 to Kriens Pilatus station, get out and reach the valley station after a 5 to 10-minutes walk. At the valley station Kriens you hop aboard the panoramic gondola for the 30-minute ride to Fräkmüntegg. If you have kids, perhaps hop off the gondola halfway through the ride in Krienseregg, where a playground provides a chance for them to burn some energy before continuing the gondola ride. 

At Fräkmüntegg, you can participate in activities, if you wish, such as a ride on Switzerland's longest summer toboggan or climbing through the rope park (own expense). When you're ready, board the 'Dragon Ride,' an aerial cableway with a spacious interior, cockpit-like design, and large windows that give you the impression of being in a helicopter—only the flying is even more exhilarating. Admire views over Lake Lucerne and the Alps when you reach the summit of the mountain, and decide if you want to stay inside the panoramic gallery, relax on the terrace, climb one of the peaks (5-10 minutes), or get a bite to eat at one of the restaurants (own expenses).

When you're ready to head back down the same way and end the tour at the starting point.

Ideal Itinerary:
8:08 Departure by Bus nr. 1 next to the train station (bus every 10-minutes)
8:19 Arrival at Kriens, Pilatus station and short walk to valley station Kriens
8:30 Arrival valley station Kriens, get your ticket and board the panorama gondola
9:00 Arrival at Fräkmüntegg station change to Dragon Ride
9:00 Board Dragon Ride
9:05 Arrival on the summit of Mount Pilatus, enjoy the views
9:45 Departure by Dragon Ride
9:50 Board the panorama gondola
10:20 Arrival at the valley station and short walk to the bus station
10:42 Take bus nr. 1 back to Lucerne train station
10:50 Arrival at train station 

Click on the 'View additional info' link to see the departure timetable.