According to forum posts, popular day trip options from Lucerne include visits to nearby mountains like Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Rigi. Mt. Pilatus offers the world's steepest cogwheel train, cable cars, and gondolas, making it an attractive option for a half-day trip. Mt. Rigi, accessible via a boat to Vitznau followed by a cogwheel train, is preferred for full-day excursions due to its extensive walking paths and stunning views.

Some travelers have recommended lake cruises as a relaxing way to explore the area. For instance, taking a boat from Lucerne to Flüelen and returning by train is suggested. Additionally, visiting smaller towns like Weggis and Vitznau for lunch and gentle walks is another favored activity, providing a break from the more crowded tourist spots.

Travelers have called out the option of combining lake and mountain visits. One suggested route is taking a train from Lucerne to Arth-Goldau, ascending Rigi-Kulm by cogwheel train, and returning to Lucerne by boat from Vitznau, offering both mountain and water experiences in a single day.

According to forum posts, there are direct train services from Lucerne to Zurich, typically taking around an hour. This route is often recommended for its efficiency and convenience.

Travelers have called out that there are direct trains from Lucerne to Zurich Airport, which are particularly frequent and start early in the day, convenient for those with early flights.

Some users noted planned changes for 2024, where direct trains from Lucerne to Zurich Airport will be disrupted due to railroad works, potentially for the entire year. Alternative routes might involve a connection via Zurich HB, which is usually faster than the direct train to the airport.

According to forum posts, both Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Titlis are accessible from Lucerne, with Pilatus being closer and directly connected via local transportation. For Mt. Titlis, travelers typically take a train to Engelberg and then walk to the cable car station.

Some travelers have highlighted that Mt. Pilatus offers dramatic views and has a range of activities like a cogwheel train ride, which is the world's steepest, and cable car rides. Mt. Titlis, on the other hand, is known for its glacier experience and has attractions like the Ice Flyer chairlift and a suspension bridge.

Travelers have called out that if you're looking for a variety of experiences including ice and snow, Titlis might be a better choice. However, for those interested in panoramic views and less crowded paths, Pilatus is highly recommended. Both mountains offer unique experiences, so your choice may depend on whether you prefer a glacier adventure or scenic views with historical transportation.

According to forum posts, the Swiss Travel Pass offers comprehensive travel coverage on public transportation. It allows unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, including trains, buses, and boats, which is highly beneficial for tourists aiming to explore multiple regions without the hassle of buying separate tickets for each journey.

Travelers have highlighted that the Swiss Travel Pass grants free access to around 400 museums throughout Switzerland. This can significantly enhance the cultural and educational experience of a trip without incurring additional costs for museum entry.

Some users noted that while the Swiss Travel Pass provides discounts on mountain excursions like Mt. Titlis and Pilatus, the discounts vary. For instance, a 50% discount is typical for many mountain routes, but for Jungfraujoch, it only offers a 25% discount, which is still beneficial for reducing travel expenses on these premium routes.

For many visitors, the convenience of the Swiss Travel Pass is a major advantage. It eliminates the need to purchase individual tickets for each leg of travel, simplifying the travel process and allowing tourists to focus more on enjoying their visit rather than logistics.

To plan a trip to Mt. Rigi, travelers can start their journey from Lucerne by taking a boat to Vitznau and then boarding a train to Rigi Kulm. An alternative route involves taking the train from Lucerne to Arth Goldau and then traveling up to Rigi Kulm. Both routes offer scenic views and are popular among travelers.

For those holding a Swiss Travel Pass, transportation to Mt. Rigi is covered, making it a cost-effective option. Travelers can check detailed route options and schedules on the SBB website or the dedicated Rigi website. Additionally, tickets can be purchased at train stations, the Lucerne boat dock, or online.

Based on traveler experiences, it is advisable to allocate a full day for the trip to Mt. Rigi to fully enjoy the panoramic views and hiking opportunities. Planning the trip according to weather conditions is crucial for the best experience, as suggested by forum members.