Originally Posted by
PaulRO
I would warmly encourage you to spread your wings (or booted feet) and pop down to Berne, the capitivating capital.
Direct trains leave ZRH at :13 and :40, arriving about 1:16 later, after a brief stop in Zurich central station. Example: dep 10:13, arr 11:28. The station is an integral part of the airport, max 3 mins walk from customs exit.
Return from Berne at :02 and :32, example: dep 14:32, arr 15:50, which is ample time to pass security and go to your gate for 17:30 (the next train at 15:02/16:20 is also fine).
Bern's a fine town and all. I was just there on Friday for business at the Uni myself.
But, Luzern is also a fine place if the OP is interested in seeing some mountains and the wonderful Lake of Lucerne. There is also a wonderful old town there, and the Rosengart museum has some nice Picasso paintings.
However, if Bern is the choice, don't miss the view from the Rosengarten across the river and up the hill. It's the best view of the city.