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Lucerne, the gateway to central Switzerland, sited on Lake Lucerne, is embedded within an impressive mountainous panorama. Thanks to its attractions, its attractive shopping offer, the beautiful lakeside setting and the nearby excursion mountains of the Rigi, Pilatus and Stanserhorn, the town is a destination for many travel groups and individuals on their journey through central Switzerland.

Description

Complete with gable paintings, the covered, medieval Chapel Bridge  forms the centrepiece of Lucerne’s townscape and is considered to be one of the oldest, covered wooden bridges in Europe. A further landmark of the town is the Museggmauer , a wall which, with the exception only of one of its towers, has been preserved in its original, well-fortified state. Historic houses decorated with frescoes line the picturesque town squares as they do the ‘Weinmarkt’ square in the car-free old town. Lucerne is a city of town squares and churches. The Jesuit church  dating from the 17th century is regarded as Switzerland’s first sacral Baroque building and the twin towers of the Hofkirche form an integral part of the townscape. The figure of a dying lion  which was hewn from the face of rock in remembrance of the heroic death of Swiss guards killed during an attack on the Tuileries in 1792 is one of the best-known monuments in Switzerland. And with its 112-metre-long Bourbaki panorama , Lucerne possesses one of the world’s few maintained, mammoth circular paintings. Tradition and modernity stand side-by-side with ease in Lucerne, as the town has also earned a reputation for itself with innovative design. The futuristic Culture and Convention Centre (KKL) , designed by leading French architect Jean Nouvel, is one the architectural highlights of the town. The KKL is also a landmark of «Lucerne: Festival City» and venue for a wide variety of cultural events throughout the year. Lucerne is the ideal starting point for many excursions to the highlights of central Switzerland. A trip up one of Lucerne’s regional mountains, the Pilatus  or the Rigi  – the queen of mountains – is a must. But excursions up onto the Stanserhorn , the Bürgenstock  or a steamship cruise on Lake Lucerne  with its many bends and arms are certainly no less worthy. The Gotthard Panorama Express  originates in Lucerne and ferries its passengers to the foot of the Gotthard pass via Lake Lucerne and then continues by rail into Ticino, south of the Alpine ridge. The «cherry road» leads from Lucerne through the landscape of cheery trees and kirsch.

Conferences and congresses

With first-class infrastructure and a diverse range of hotels, Lucerne in the very heart of Switzerland leaves nothing to be desired. The city boasts multifunctional event centres such as the world-famous KKL Luzern (Lucerne Culture and Convention Center) designed by star architect Jean Nouvel and a large number of hotels with state-of-the-art infrastructure. Lucerne offers the ideal setting for your event. With its magnificent lakeside location and Alpine peaks almost close enough to touch, the city is the ideal starting point for supporting programmes and team events. It is beautifully laid out and offers a wide variety of sights, cultural attractions and unique shops.

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21 Top Tourist Attractions in Lucerne, Switzerland

Located in the alpine scenery of central Switzerland, Lucerne makes a good place to explore the country. Travelers would do well, however, to spend some time in this pretty city before hopping a train to some place else.

Whether visitors want to cruise on a gorgeous blue lake, see colorfully painted medieval homes, listen to some great classical music or just gaze at snow-capped mountains, Lucerne is the place to indulge the senses. Lucerne has been praised by many tourists, including Queen Victoria and Mark Twain. Today Lucerne’s attractions provides plenty of opportunities for tourists to add their own praise.

Steeped in history, its atmospheric Old Town is very well-preserved with it being most known for its two charming covered bridges. Countless churches and medieval guild halls can also be seen alongside its quaint squares and the romantic river Reuss that meanders its way through town.

In addition to these things to do in Lucerne itself, you can easily explore both glittering Lake Lucerne and the gorgeous mountains nearby. The city also has a thriving cultural life to delve into with its fun-filled carnival and the Lucerne Festival being just two of its main highlights.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

21. Lakeside Promenade

Very popular with locals and tourists alike, the lovely Lakeside Promenade takes you right along the city’s glittering waterfront. Aside from all the spectacular views, there are plenty of attractive old buildings and pretty parks to see too.

Starting just across Seebrucke Bridge from the main train station, it stretches several kilometers in length alongside Lake Lucerne. Lined by trees and benches, the paved walkway also passes in front of the Grand Hotel National and glitzy Casino Lucerne.

Other than strolling along or sipping a coffee at one of the cafe terraces, you can take a refreshing dip at the Seebad. In summer, public concerts also take place at the old pavilion that borders the promenade. Whatever time of year, the panoramas out over the reflective lake and sparkling snow-capped mountains are absolutely captivating.

20. Rosengart Collection

Back over the bridge next to the train station is the highly-rated Rosengart Collection. One of the city’s main museums, its galleries mostly focus on works by Pablo Picasso and the Swiss-born artist Paul Klee.

Located in a stately neoclassical building, the small but superb art museum was only unveiled to the public in 2002. Its 300 or so important paintings and drawings all hail from the private collection of Lucerne art dealer, Angela Rosengart. Both photos and exhibits also help you to get to know the featured artists better.

Not having read much about it beforehand, we were very impressed by all the unique and interesting masterpieces on display. While the basement is dedicated to arresting artworks by Klee, Picasso’s genius and manner of working is explored on the ground floor. In addition, other exquisite pieces by everyone from Kandinsky and Cézanne to Monet, Miró and Matisse also feature.

19. Rathaus

Long one of the city’s most important buildings, the Rathaus has acted as Lucerne’s seat of government for centuries. Set along the quaint Kornmarkt square, its soaring tower and sturdy stone walls are also visible from Chapel Bridge.

Erected in the early 1600s, it showcases some outstanding Italian Renaissance-style architecture. While elegant arcades surround the ground floor, a traditional Swiss-style hipped roof tops the town hall. Intricately carved columns and the city’s coat of arms also surround the entrance while the colourful clock tower looms overhead.

Overall, the town hall certainly makes for some fabulous photos, whether seen from the square or the waterfront on its other side. One of the Old Town’s most distinctive landmarks, it can hardly be missed when wandering around.

18. Franciscan Church

Another incredible old building to stop by is the art-filled Franciscan Church along the picturesque square of the same name. Although its exterior may look quite simple, its atmospheric interior contains all kinds of artistic treasures.

Lying on the left bank of the river Reuss, not far from the Jesuit Church, it was built in 1280 as part of a Franciscan Monastery. Within its whitewashed walls, you can find a huge organ and high altar alongside fading frescoes and fine stained-glass windows.

Highlights for us though included its remarkably detailed wood pulpit and all the little angels painted on its colourful ceiling. We also saw the rather eerie-looking remains of an armor-clad skeleton in a glass case that we won’t be forgetting anytime soon.

17. Bourbaki Panorama

Sure to be of interest to history lovers is the Bourbaki Panorama on the north side of the river. A relatively quick stop, its circular building houses just one gigantic painting for you to examine.

Now on display for over 140 years, the vast panorama depicts the end of the 1870-71 Franco-Prussian War. Its snowy scenes show the defeated French army struggling to escape to Switzerland. In the foreground of the immense, 115 meter-long artwork are various figures and props that make the whole ensemble appear three-dimensional.

Created by Swiss artist Édouard Castres, it perfectly highlights the horrors of war and its aftermath. Thankfully, some small exhibitions, videos and recordings provide more information on the battle and the thousands of soldiers, horses and lines of refugees before you. Despite the sombre subject, the panorama has an alluring beauty to it.

16. KKL Luzern

If after all the days spent sightseeing you want to watch a top-class concert or show, then KKL Luzern is the place to head. A marvelous piece of modern architecture, the multi-venue complex lies right where the river Reuss flows into the resplendent lake.

Designed by famous French architect Jean Nouvel, the state-of-the-art cultural center was inaugurated in 1998. Under its ginormous flat roof is not just the sublime Lucerne Art Museum and a sleek convention center but several restaurants too.

The main reason people visit though is for its colossal concert hall that boasts some of the best acoustics around. Absolutely beautiful, the elegant auditorium puts on a packed schedule of classical concerts and orchestra performances. It also hosts the renowned Lucerne Festival; one of the best classical music festivals around.

15. Jesuit Church

Also overlooking the Reuss is the gorgeous Jesuit Church found just downstream of the Chapel Bridge. While its two onion domes and imposing facade already make for quite the sight, the ostentatious interior is the real showstopper.

Consecrated in 1677, it was the first large Baroque church to be built in Switzerland, north of the Alps. Its construction came almost a hundred years after the Jesuits were first invited to the city in an attempt to counter growing Protestant influence.

Once inside, it’s hard not to be impressed by all its ornate stucco work, elaborate high altar and intricately-crafted organ. The church’s gleaming white interior also displays a stunning painted ceiling and other fine religious artworks. We were lucky enough to arrive just when one of the regular organ recitals was beginning so had ample time to admire everything while listening to the heavenly music.

14. Richard Wagner Museum

Richard Wagner was a famous 19th century German composer, known for his operas, particularly the four-part The Rings of Nibelungun.

Perhaps even more famous is his Bridal Chorus from the opera Lohengrin that is played as the bride walks down the aisle. Wagner lived on Lake Lucerne for six years where he composed other important operas.

You can learn about his life and music through memorabilia at the Richard Wagner Museum that is located on his country estate, Tribechen. The museum is closed December to April and on Mondays.

13. Glacier Garden

Located on the northern outskirts of the Old Town is the fascinating Glacier Garden. Asides from all its amazing formations left behind during the last Ice Age, the site has a museum and hall of mirrors to enjoy, among other attractions.

Uncovered in 1872, its strange-shaped potholes and ancient fossils were formed around 20,000 years ago by retreating glaciers. As you examine the dramatic-looking rock formations and explore underground passages, convincing animations bring the area back to life. Its excellent museum also explains glacial movements, the region’s geology and how climate change impacts everything.

After seeing the chalet’s historic rooms and huge relief map of Switzerland, get lost in its endless Alhambra mirror maze. Confusing but fun, its ninety reflective mirrors were installed back in 1896. Once you finally emerge, you can enjoy epic panoramas out over the lake and Lucerne from atop the site’s lofty observation tower.

12. Spreuer Bridge

Although it is somewhat overshadowed by the Kapellbrucke, Spreuer Bridge is every bit as beautiful as its nearby neighbor. Lying just a few minutes further downstream, its wooden walkways also exhibit some exquisite architecture and arresting paintings.

Very similar in design, the covered pedestrian bridge was built in 1406 and is named after the chaff or ‘spreu’ the nearby mills dumped in the river. Most interesting though are the 45 rather macabre paintings produced by Kaspar Meglinger and his students.

Dating to between 1616 and 1637, the triangular panels beneath the bridge’s rafters depict the Dance of Death. Known as Totentanz in German, the medieval scenes and eerie dancing skeletons are all utterly captivating to observe. They served as a daily reminder to residents that eventually Death comes for us all.

Besides making for some fantastic photos, the historic bridge also offers divine views over the river and Old Town. As it lies just five minutes from Chapel Bridge, you can easily visit both structures at the same time.

11. Fasnacht

Lots of fun to experience, Lucerne’s colourful, chaotic carnival is definitely one of the best times of year to visit. Known locally as Fasnacht, it sees masked parades, music groups and merry mobs of costumed revelers take over the entire Old Town.

Since at least the fifteenth-century, the Swiss version of carnival has been held in the run-up to Lent. Starting early at 5AM on Dirty Thursday, thousands of costumed guild members and musicians celebrate like crazy as they dance and sing the winter away. The loud and lively festivities only end the evening before Ash Wednesday when the month-long fasting period begins.

During these fun-filled days, huge parades featuring elaborate masks and boisterous big bands mass around the center. Full of dancing, happiness and unruly good times, Fasnacht is undoubtedly the highlight of Lucerne’s cultural calendar.

10. Trip to Engelberg and Mount Titlis

If you want to see even more of the Alps and enjoy some outdoor activities, then the idyllic resort village of Engelberg is the perfect place to go. Situated just forty minutes away, it has exciting hiking, biking and skiing to try, up and down Mount Titlis.

Nestled away in a picturesque alpine valley, the popular summer and winter holiday destination lies just south of Lucerne in Central Switzerland. Other than checking out its twelfth-century Engelberg Abbey, most come to immerse themselves in nature and explore its spectacular scenery.

Towering above everything is the massive Mount Titlis which reaches 3,238 meters in height. From below, cable cars and chair lifts whisk visitors up to its resort where you can ski, snowboard and snow tube along its trails. In summer, some delightful hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking can also be had out on its sweeping slopes.

Thanks to its peaceful setting and panoramic views, Engelberg and Mount Titlis really are a treat to visit any time of year.

9. Hofkirche

Perched atop a smallish hill overlooking the Old Town is the handsome and historic Hofkirche. Also known as the Church of St. Leodegar, its two soaring twin spires and ornate facade make for some great photos.

Set on the same site as an eighth-century Benedictine monastery, it was later rebuilt in 1639 after an earlier edition burnt down. Now exhibiting a striking mix of medieval, Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, the church’s tall bell towers are visible for many kilometers around.

Although its interior is somewhat plain in comparison, an exquisitely carved pulpit and choir stalls are scattered about. Just as eye-catching is the Hofkirche’s glittering gold and black high altar and its hulking great organ. Outside too, there are pretty arcades to amble around where many of the city’s most prominent families have tombs.

8. Musegg Wall

Musegg Wall gives travelers a chance to walk on history while, at the same time, enjoying panoramic views of Lucerne.

The wall, an important part of Lucerne’s fortifications, was built in the 13th century and is largely intact today. Musegg Wall has nine towers, though only a few are accessible these days.

Perhaps the most famous open tower is Zyt; it contains the oldest clock in Lucerne. This 1536 clock isn’t just any clock, however. It rings on the hour one minute before all the other city clocks can ring. Views from the accessible towers are pretty fantastic, too.

7. Swiss Museum of Transport

With exhibits covering land and space travel, the Swiss Museum of Transport is Switzerland’s most popular museum.

Built in 1959, the museum is home to train locomotives, motor vehicles, ships and aircraft. It also houses the large EURECA satellite, launched by Europe and the United States in the 1990s. But the Swiss Museum of Transport is more than transport. It also has a planetarium and an extensive collection of works by Lucerne sculptor and painter Hans Emi.

Located on Lake Lucerne, the museum contains an aerial photography of Switzerland. Chocoholics will enjoy learning more about their favorite sweet in the museum’s Chocolate Adventure.

6. Lion of Lucerne

The Lion of Lucerne is a sad, touching tribute to Swiss soldiers who tried to protect the royal family during the French Revolution. The memorial features a dying lion carved into sandstone at a pond at the east end of Lucerne.

American author Mark Twain called the statue “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.” It memorializes the more than 800 Swiss guards who died protecting King Louis XVI and his family at Tuileries Palace or who later died in a French prison. Only about 100 soldiers managed to escape the massacre.

5. Boat Ride on Lake Lucerne

A wonderful way to see more of Lucerne and its lovely, scenic surroundings is to take a relaxing boat ride out on the lake. From the center, countless companies run trips, either on romantic old paddle-wheel steamers or sleek yachts and speedboats.

Stretching 38 kilometers in total, Switzerland’s fourth-largest lake has numerous arms with magnificent mountains hemming it in on all sides. Once aboard your boat, you’ll cruise about its sparkling surface, watching all its towns and forests slowly pass by.

While some excursions last an hour, others take half a day with lunch, drinks and walking tours sometimes included. Out on the lake, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the gentle breeze while drinking in its breathtaking views. After having run around town for days, we found a boat ride made for a very pleasant change of pace.

4. Mount Rigi

Lake Lucerne is surrounded by mountains, but few are more spectacular than Mount Rigi. The “queen of the mountains.” Is known as a massif because it was formed when the earth’s crust moved.

Visitors give it high marks for its stunning beauty, but warn to only visit it on a clear day. Mount Rigi is unique because it sits on three lakes: Lucerne, Zug and Lauerz. A cogwheel train is a popular way to reach the top of this 1,797.5-meter (5,897-foot) high peak, but visitors can also get there via a gondola and cable car. Mount Rigi offers hiking in the summer and snow sports in the winter.

3. Mount Pilatus

Another mountain massif, Mount Pilatus is actually made up of several peaks that overlook Lucerne. The highest peak is Tomlinson at 2,128 meter (6,982 feet) in elevation. Mount Pilatus is considered an icon of the city.

Getting to Mount Pilatus is an adventure in itself: Travelers ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway that operates between May and November. Or they can opt for gondolas or aerial cableways any time throughout the year. Summer visitors can take the “Golden Round Trip” that involves a boat ride across Lake Lucerne and then the ride up the mountain.

2. Old Town

Compared to other European towns, Lucerne’s Old Town (Aldstadt) is tiny, but that just makes it easier to walk around. It’s located of the right bank of the River Reuss that is crossed by the most famous tourist attraction in Lucerne; the 14th century Chapel Bridge.

Surrounded by the city wall, Old Town is very well preserved with squares with fountains and cobblestone streets. As you stroll through Old Town, considered one of the prettiest in Switzerland, you’ll find murals painted on numerous buildings.

Travelers also will come across medieval burghers’ brightly painted, wood-timbered houses. The Italian Renaissance Town Hall was built in 1602.

1. Chapel Bridge

Lucerne’s standout symbol and sight, the enchanting Chapel Bridge makes for some stupendous photos and viewing. Lying right in the heart of the Old Town, its covered walkway and tower count among the most photographed scenes in all of Switzerland.

Spanning the river Reuss, the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge remarkably dates to the fourteenth-century. Running diagonally atop the fast-flowing water, it was built to help secure the city from attack. Over the years, its 34 meter-high tower has been used as a prison, torture chamber, treasury and archive.

Underneath its old rafters, you can again see brightly-painted scenes from throughout Lucerne’s history. Once numbering 158 in total, only thirty of the seventeenth-century artworks now sadly remain. These however are super interesting to look at and make walking over the bridge even more special.

Although we’d already seen hundreds of pictures of it online, we were still touched by actually seeing the iconic landmark up close. With the mountains, river and Old Town surrounding it and colourful flowers coating its sides, it looked even better than we’d hoped. An absolute must-visit, Chapel Bridge or Kapellbrucke was definitely the most memorable thing we saw in Lucerne.

Where to Stay

As almost all the main tourist attractions in Lucerne are within walking distance, you’re better off staying in or around the Old Town. With trains and boat trips departing nearby, you can find yourself out on the lake or up amidst the mountains in no time at all.

As soon as you see its fantastic location and fancy interior, you’re going to fall in love with the four-star Hotel des Balances . What’s more, many of its stylish rooms provide incredible views of Chapel Bridge, the Jesuit Church and Mount Pilatus. To top it off, it has an outstanding restaurant, bar and terrace for guests to make use of.

Right by the train station and Rosengart Collection is another great option for people visiting the city. A bit more budget-friendly, Hotel Central Luzern offers clean, modern rooms that guarantee a quiet, comfortable night’s sleep. Besides its central location, guests regularly rave above its delicious buffet breakfast and friendly, welcoming staff members.

How to Get There

Situated right in the center of Switzerland, Lucerne is well-connected to the rest of the country. Thanks to its main train station, you can travel to both Bern and Zurich in just an hour with Basel lying around an hour and a half away.

These cities’ airports are also the main point of entry for international visitors looking to visit Lucerne. Zurich International Airport in particular is where most people land as planes fly here from 170 destinations worldwide each day.

Some buses also connect to these cities and others with Switzerland’s roads being great to drive along should you want to come by car or rent one while you’re in town. The main way to see the nearby mountains, lakes and nature sites though is by train.

Once you arrive, you’ll find that most main sights can easily be reached on foot from its central train station.

Best Time to Visit Lucerne

Lying alongside the large lake of the same name amidst majestic snow-capped mountains, Switzerland’s Lucerne enjoys a rather moderate climate. While winter is quite cold with snow often falling, summers are warm and sunny but have quite a bit of rain.

The peak season for visiting is in July and August when temperatures average 22°C (71°F). Besides ambling about the Old Town and taking boat trips out on the lake, this is a wonderful time to hike around the mountains. Although it is the busiest, most expensive period, events like the Lucerne Festival create a vibrant atmosphere.

Spring and autumn are also very pleasant due to blooming meadows and glittering gold forests. As temperatures range from 13 to 20°C (55 to 68°F), you’ll need to pack some warm clothes. With each month of the year having 10 to 14 days of rain, a coat is always a good idea!

November to March is very quiet as most people are put off by the cold. Most of the trails are also closed. Lucerne’s Christmas markets do look magical though with its Fasnacht carnival in February attracting droves of partygoers. You can also ski in the mountains in winter.

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Map of Lucerne — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Lucerne, Switzerland for travelers! Check out Lucerne’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Lucerne? See our Lucerne Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Lucerne. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Lucerne map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Lucerne by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 16 attractions in Lucerne

Chapel bridge, lion monument.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Sammlung Rosengart

Museggmauer, bourbaki panorama lucerne.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Mount Pilatus

Jesuitenkirche hl. franz xaver, glacier garden of lucerne, lucerne culture and congress centre, spreuerbrücke, hofkirche st. leodegar, swiss museum of transport, lucerne needle dam, richard wagner museum lucerne.

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19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Lucerne

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Lucerne (Luzern in German) lies at the north end of Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstätter See) where the River Reuss flows out of the lake. The town, with its well-preserved medieval core, elegant historic buildings, and genial atmosphere, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Switzerland .

Lucerne offers a wealth of things to do. Many visitors come to see leading conductors, soloists, and orchestras perform at the annual summer music festival and at other festivals spotlighting blues, piano, and even marching bands. The Benedictine monastery of St. Leodegar was founded around 730, and the first mention of a town is of Luciaria in 840.

Lucerne is compact and easy to explore, with the old town and all the main sights within walking distance of the rail station. For tourists who love mountain scenery, the biggest attraction of all is Lucerne's location as a base for some of the most spectacular Alpine rides in Europe, with easy connection to Mt. Rigi , Mt. Pilatus , Mt. Titlis , and Jungfraujoch .

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Lucerne.

1. See the View from Mt. Pilatus

2. kapellbrücke (chapel bridge), 3. explore lake lucerne by boat, 4. old town, 5. ride the cog railway up mount rigi, 6. spreuerbrücke, 7. löwendenkmal (lion monument), 8. verkehrshaus der schweiz (swiss transport museum), 9. museggmauer & türme (town walls and towers), 10. hofkirche, 11. jesuit church, 12. museum sammlung rosengart (rosengart collection), 13. gletschergarten (glacier garden), 14. walk or hike to lakeside viewpoints, 15. engelberg-titlis, 16. bourbaki panorama, 17. day trip to jungfraujoch, 18. schloss heidegg (heidegg castle), 19. richard wagner museum, where to stay in lucerne for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in lucerne.

While in Lucerne, it would be a shame to miss the trip up Mount Pilatus, going up by the cableway from Kriens and down by the cog-railroad. The half-hour ride from Kriens leads to another short cable car ride to the 2,070-meter Pilatus-Kulm.

From here, it is a six- to 10-minute climb to the summit of the Esel - the central (but not highest) peak of Pilatus with magnificent views of the Alps. From the Pilatus-Kulm, it is a 30-minute walk to the Tomlishorn, at 2,132 meters, the highest point in this rugged limestone massif.

Alternatively, you can take a boat to Alpnachstad to board the cog-railroad for a 30-minute ride at gradients up to 48 percent through Alpine meadows and forests, over the rock-strewn Mattalp, up the steep rock face, and through four tunnels to the upper station on Pilatus-Kulm, returning via the cableway.

If you don't want to deal with planning a trip and navigating your way to Mount Pilatus, a guided tour is a great option. The 5.5-hour Mount Pilatus Summer Day Trip includes a gondola ride and an aerial cableway ascent to the peak of Mount Pilatus, followed by a descent on the world's steepest cogwheel train. The tour ends with a panoramic one-hour boat ride across Lake Lucerne.

The most characteristic sight in Lucerne is the Kapellbrücke, a covered wooden bridge running diagonally across the Reuss. Apart from being a picturesque centerpiece for Lucerne, the bridge, built in 1333, is interesting for the more than 100 17th-century pictures hanging from the roof rafters inside, depicting patron saints and scenes from the town's history.

The Kapellbrücke was severely damaged by fire in 1993 but has been completely rebuilt and restored. Beside it is the octagonal Wasserturm , a 13th-century water tower more than 34 meters high and once part of the town's fortifications. The bridge and tower are among the most photographed scenes in all Switzerland.

Several boat trips of different lengths explore the 38-kilometer-long lake, one of which, the William Tell Express , combines with a train excursion through the St. Gotthard Pass, linking Central Switzerland with the many attractions of the Ticino region .

From May to September, you can travel by paddle-wheel steamer (out of season by a diesel motorboat) from Lucerne to Flüelen, enjoying a three-course meal in the ship's saloon, then take a scenic train ride as far as the towns of Locarno and Lugano .

If you don't have time for a longer boat excursion, you can still see the beautiful alpine peaks and hear about the history and lore of the land around the lake on a one-hour Lake Lucerne panoramic sightseeing cruise. The 49-meter yacht has indoor and outdoor seating, as well as refreshments available, and you will be able to hear the commentary about the lakeside sights in English with the audio headset that's included in the tour.

Address: Werftstrasse 5, Lucerne

The Old Town of Lucerne, on the right bank of the Reuss, still preserves many old burghers' houses and little squares with fountains. Some of the timber-framed buildings bordering the stone streets are painted in bright colors, giving the Altstadt a fairy-tale atmosphere.

At the Kornmarkt is the Altes Rathaus , the Old Town Hall, built in 1602-06 in Italian Renaissance style but topped by a very typical Swiss hipped roof. The adjoining tower dates from the 14th century. West of the Kornmarkt is the picturesque Weinmarkt with a Late Gothic fountain.

In the Kapellplatz is the oldest church in Lucerne, St. Peter's chapel , built in 1178 but renovated to its present form in the 18th century. The Old Town is a delightful place to visit for a stroll, especially if you follow some of the narrow side streets.

One of the signature experiences in Switzerland is to ride the cog railway from the shores of Lake Lucerne to an elevation of 1,798 meters on Mt Rigi. This is Europe's first cog railway, and you can ride in restored cars dating back as far as the railway's beginning. Some of the steam engines date to the 1920s.

From the top, views stretch all the way to the Black Forest in Germany. One of the popular things to do is make a scenic circle route by taking the boat from Lucerne to Vitznau, where you board the cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm. Then take another cogwheel train down to Arth-Goldau and catch a train back to Lucerne.

Surprising as it may be to have one covered bridge that has survived for several centuries, Lucerne has two. The second covered wooden bridge, the Spreuerbrücke, was built in 1406, and inside, on triangular panels under the bridge's rafters, are 45 paintings of the Dance of Death, known in German as the Totentanz.

Painted between 1616 and 1637 by painter Kaspar Meglinger and his students, this is the largest example of a Totentanz cycle known to exist. These are framed in black, each frame inscribed with explanations in verse of the painting's subject and the names of the patrons who donated them. Some also have portraits of the donors.

Just north of Löwenplatz is the famous Lion Monument, a huge figure of a dying lion hewn from the face of the rock ledge. Designed by Thorwaldsen in 1820, the monument commemorates the death of 26 officers and more than 700 troops of the Swiss Guards.

These mercenary soldiers were killed in Paris while protecting King Louis XVI during the attack on the Tuileries in the French Revolution in 1792. The touching monument is one of the best-known sights in Lucerne.

Address: Löwenplatz, Lucerne

The large complex of exhibition halls and outdoor exhibits cover all forms of transport, as well as communications and tourism. Through rolling stock and railway locomotives and both models and actual examples of ships, aircraft, rockets, and automobiles, you'll follow the development of transportation from its earliest days, especially in its mechanized forms.

An entire exhibit explains the construction of the St. Gotthard rail tunnel. A 3D film theater replaces the previous IMAX theater with the largest screen in Switzerland, and a 150-projector Planetarium also offers daily shows.

Address: Lidostrasse 5, Lucerne

Official site: www.verkehrshaus.ch

Along the north side of Lucerne's old town is a wall built between 1350 and 1408, with nine towers constructed in differing styles. The part built around 1386 is still almost completely intact, and you can climb four of the towers - Schirmer, Zyt, Wacht, and Männli - for views across the city, lake, and surrounding landscape.

The oldest of Lucerne's clocks, built in 1535, is in the Zyt tower and chimes hourly, exactly one minute before all the other city clocks. Inside the tower, you can see its mechanism at work.

Official site: www.museggmauer.ch

On the site of the eighth-century Benedictine monastery of St. Leodegar is the twin-towered Hofkirche, which was rebuilt in 1634-39 but preserved the 1525 towers of the previous church. It is considered the most important Renaissance church in Switzerland. On the north tower is a Late Gothic sculpture depicting the Agony in the Garden.

Inside, the carved pulpit and choir-stalls are from 1639, and in the arcades surrounding the church are the tombs of members of old Lucerne families. Although the overall interior is simple and fairly plain, this just highlights the exuberant baroque gold altars. In the summer, recitals on the church's famous organ are held here.

Address: Sankt-Leodegar-Strasse 6, Lucerne

Official site: http://www.kathluzern.ch/st-leodegar-im-hof/

Switzerland's first large church in the Baroque style built north of the Alps was founded for the Jesuits, who were invited by the city of Lucerne in 1573 to establish a college. The city hoped that the Jesuits, who were active in the Counter-Reformation, would help stave off the influence of the growing Protestantism.

The interior was updated to the Rococo style in 1750, with an outstanding painted ceiling and ornate faux marble side altars. The onion-domed towers were completed in 1893. Check the schedule for concerts on the church's magnificent organ.

Address: Bahnhofstrasse 11a, Lucerne

Official site: www.jesuitenkirche-luzern.ch

If you're at all interested in Post-Impressionist art, this relatively new art museum alone is worth a trip to Lucerne. Particularly strong in works by Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso, the collection also features important works of more than 20 artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, among them Cézanne, Monet, Chagall, Braque, Kandinsky, Léger, Matisse, and Miró.

The 125 paintings and drawings by Paul Klee represent all periods of the artist's work and are arranged so you can follow the progression of his style and technique. The Picasso collection includes some of his earlier drawings but concentrates mainly on his paintings after 1938.

Angela Rosengart, the Museum's founder, and her father knew these artists personally, and the museum was built to house her personal collection. Among the Picasso works are portraits he painted of her.

Address: Pilatusstrasse 10, Lucerne

Official site: www.rosengart.ch

This remarkable relic of the Ice Age includes glacier-polished rock, erratic boulders dropped by the retreating ice, and 32 potholes formed at the base of waterfalls of melting glacial ice. Some of them are huge, and their formation is demonstrated by a working model of the process.

Exhibits also show how the changing climate affects the Earth. Higher up are an early climbers' hut and a lookout tower. In the museum are relief maps of Switzerland, groups of Alpine animals, rock specimens, and historic rooms.

Not at all related to the rest of the museum but great fun, especially for children, is the labyrinth of mirrors. The adjoining park is a good place for a picnic.

Address: Denkmalstrasse 4, Lucerne

Official site: https://gletschergarten.ch/en

Lucerne and its surroundings are a paradise for walkers and hikers, with flat lakeside paths and more challenging day-long hikes in steeper terrain. Closest to the city is the level walking path circling Lake Rot , through a nature reserve. There's a beach and a playground along the way, and places to picnic.

More demanding, but also close to the city, the Bireggwald offers views of the lake and Mt. Pilatus; a marked forest trail climbs from the Biregghof bus stop to the Oberrüti lookout . You can continue on the trail, descending to the lake and returning to Lucerne by train.

The Bürgenstock Cliff Path is a good half-day trip from Lucerne. Reached by boat and the scenic Bürgenstock funicular railway , the well-groomed cliff path skirts dramatic rock ledges and reveals beautiful views of lake Lucerne and the Alps. The Hammetschwand lift replaces the steep part, so very little climbing is involved.

About 35 kilometers south of Lucerne, Engelberg-Titlis is Central Switzerland's biggest winter and summer vacation destination and one of Switzerland's top 10 ski resorts. Towered over by 3,239-meter-high Mount Titlis, the village of Engelberg is famous for its 12th-century Benedictine monastery, where monks still live and work today.

In the summer, the area is a popular base for mountain biking, hiking, golfing, and mountaineering, while the deep powder of the winter months lures skiers and snowboarders.

If you're visiting Lucerne in the winter, the Mount Titlis Eternal Snow Half-Day Trip is a fun way to experience the beautiful Alpine scenery here as well as some snow-based activities. This 5.5-hour tour takes you to the top of the 3,020-meter summit of Mount Titlis, where you can try snow tubing, explore the Glacier Cave, take a cliff walk, and ride on a gondola and the Ice Flyer chairlift to see breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps.

Perhaps the most unusual attraction in Lucerne is the enormous panoramic painting and sculpture depicting the escape of 87,000 members of the French army to Switzerland during the Franco-Prussian War in the winter of 1871. The circular painting and three-dimensional foreground are the work of Edouard Castres, who traveled with the army as a Red Cross worker.

Completed in 1881, the work is 112 meters long and 10 meters high and considered one of the finest examples of panoramic art. As you stand in the middle of this painting, figures and actual objects, such as a rail truck, turn it into a three-dimensional scene. Entrance to this attraction is pricey, but if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, admission is free.

Address: Loewenplatz 11, Lucerne

Official site: https://www.bourbakipanorama.ch/

About 80 kilometers from Lucerne, the World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch is known as the Top of Europe, and is home to the highest railroad station on the continent at 3,454 meters. You can go even higher on an elevator, which leads to the 3,573-meter summit of the Sphinx.

A great way to soak up this stunning Alpine scenery is on a Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip . This 9.5-hour journey begins with a drive through the beautiful scenery of the Bernese Oberland and a cogwheel train trip up to the Jungfraujoch, passing through the mountain pass of Kleine Scheidegg, beneath the famous Eiger North Face.

While on the summit, you have a chance to explore the Ice Palace and admire the breathtaking views from the Sphinx Observation Terrace.

A 30-minute drive from Lucerne stands one of Switzerland's oldest castles, dating from 1192, and the oldest known residential building in the Canton. In the 1600s, the feudal Gothic manor was expanded with a Baroque tower.

Today, it is the history and culture center of the Seetal Valley, a living history museum that illustrates the life of country aristocracy over a period of several hundred years. A tour begins with the Heidegg Tower Cellar Stories, an innovative spatial audio play that brings 800 years of history to life in a dramatic way.

Children won't want to leave the castle's grand playroom in the tower's top floor, where they can dress up as princes and princesses. Before leaving, stroll through the rose gardens, and stop for coffee and cake at the café.

Opera lovers should visit the Tribschen Villa, the home of Richard Wagner from 1866 to 1872 , where he composed some of his best-known works. It was here that he completed Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg and portions of Siegfried , as well as The Emperor March .

On a tour of the villa, you will hear the romantic story of his Tribschener Idyll , composed as a serenade for his wife Cosima on her 33rd birthday and first performed here. Along with personal items, furniture, and original manuscripts and musical scores, you'll see (and perhaps hear) the Erard grand piano on which he composed.

Address: Richard-Wagner-Weg 27, Lucerne, Switzerland

Official site: https://richard-wagner-museum.ch/home-en-us

Lucerne's compact center includes the Old Town streets that climb the north bank of the River Reuss, as well as the shore of Lake Lucerne, site of the rail station. These highly-rated hotels in Lucerne are conveniently located close to the center:

Luxury Hotels :

• With stunning lake and mountain views, but only a five-minute walk across the bridge from the train station, Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is close to the Old Town and shopping.
• The individually decorated rooms of the 5-star Art Deco Hotel Montana have private balconies overlooking the lake, the Old Town, and mountains. It's within walking distance of the center, and you can take the funicular to the hotel's hillside perch above the shore.
• The modern Marriott-affiliate Renaissance Lucerne Hotel is two blocks from the station and lake, near the Rosengart art museum.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Hotel Krone Luzern stands in the center of the Old Town, near the city walls and right on historic Weinmarkt square.
• On the hillside above the lake near the Old Town, the half-timbered Hotel Hofgarten has large rooms and a free breakfast, about 10 minutes from the train station.
• Overlooking the lake beside the station, the modern Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne is handy to the boat landing for lake excursions and a 10- to 15-minute walk to the Old Town.

Budget Hotels:

• Lucerne doesn't have many budget choices and even fewer close to the center, so you may need to depend on buses or a longer walk.
• With small rooms and very simple furnishings, ibis budget Luzern City is about a 15-minute walk to the Old Town.
• A two-minute walk from a train station with a four-minute connection to Lucerne's main station, Holiday Inn Express Luzern - Kriens is a contemporary hotel, opened in 2019.
• Galaxy Apartments , near the Culture and Convention Centre, is a good choice for families; they have kitchenettes with dishwashers.

More on Switzerland

A Concise Travel Guide to Lucerne, Switzerland

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Lucerne is located in central Switzerland , on the shores of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by the Swiss Alps, notably Mount Pilatus and Rigi. With its placid water and towering alpine vistas, Lucerne embodies what tourists think of when they hear "Switzerland." Lucerne has a population of just under 60,000 people. Lucerne is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland .

Getting to Lucerne

Lucerne has a central rail station with frequent connections to other locations in Switzerland and some international destinations. Lucerne doesn't have an airport ; Zurich International Airport is the most frequently used by travelers to the area.

Discount Card

The Lucerne Card , available for durations of 1, 2 or 3 days, offers free public transportation within Lucerne and discounts on many other museums and attractions.

Where to Stay

The Hotel Des Balances is highly rated for its riverside location and service. Lake Lucerne is a delightful recreation area, and if you like rural alpine chalets with views of the mountains down to the sea you might enjoy a Lake Lucerne Vacation Rental.

Museums and Attractions

Lucerne has a small medieval center to get lost in--and there are many museums to visit.

• Glacier Garden (Gletchergarden)
• Swiss Transport Museum - 20,000 square meters of transportation history and technology.
• Modern Art Museum.
• Richard Wagner Museum
• Lucerne Historic Museum (Historisches Museum Luzern)

Other Attractions

You can take a lake steamer across Lake Lucerne , have lunch on the ship, or take a cable car up Mount Pilatus on the world's steepest cogwheel, or get a panoramic view of Lucerne canton from Mount Rigi.

Of course, you can just stroll around the medieval core of Lucerne and cross the wood-covered Chapel bridge first constructed in the 14th century, then see the city ramparts and climb up the watchtowers.

There are also organized coach tours that can take you from your hotel in Lucerne into the Alps. Viator's top Lucerne tour takes you to the Jungfraujoch at 11,333 feet, the top of Europe.

Summer Events

In August the Summer Night Festival (Luzernfest) is celebrated with music and stands around the lakeside as well as fireworks. The famous Blue Balls Festival  is a music festival held in July with lakeside venues.

Switzerland Travel Guide

The Top 9 Scenic and Novelty Train Rides in Switzerland

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

Getting Around Switzerland: Guide to Public Transportation

Hiking in Switzerland

The Most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

The Best Time to Visit Switzerland

How to Use Swiss Trains and the Swiss Travel Pass

Lake Como Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Things to Do in Switzerland

The 10 Best Restaurants in Switzerland

11 Great Day Trips From Zurich

Germany Guide: Planning Your Trip

Old Town Lucerne Map (with Info of Attractions & Landmarks)

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Similar to the Old City of Bern , which is home to gorgeous landmarks and picturesque views , Old Town Lucerne is another destination in Switzerland that I find wander-worthy. I discovered beautiful sights , unique attractions , and best of all, eye-pleasing landmarks that are all free to visit !

For wanderers, I can’t emphasize enough how amazing a walking tour in Old Town Lucerne is. Don’t miss it, whether you’re visiting Lucerne for just a day , staying in the city for two days , or planning a three-day getaway . Worry not finding these attractions in Old Town Lucerne. I’ve got them plotted on my map, and I’ve included brief descriptions of each attraction for your convenience .

If you’re looking for assistance in exploring Old Town Lucerne, a local guide could be just what you need. They can provide amazing insights and tips to help you make the most of your trip to Lucerne.

Map of Old Town Lucerne

The old town of Lucerne is both compact and filled with sights to see. To help navigate, I’ve divided the map of the old town into four sections. This allows me to pinpoint the attractions and show you their exact locations. The four sections are the Reuss River area , the Musegg Wall area , the central part , and the eastern portion of the old town .

Important : The way I’ve divided Lucerne’s old city on the map above doesn’t have any historical or geographical basis. I simply sectioned it off, grouping together the tourist destinations that are closest to each other.

Map of the Reuss River Area in Old Town Lucerne

If you’re traveling by train in Switzerland, you’ll likely visit the attractions along the Reuss River first. These sites are near the train station, including the Chapel Bridge which is Lucerne’s iconic landmark. A map of the old city is provided below, marking the tourist spots along the Reuss River. In addition to the Chapel Bridge, there is Torbogen Luzern , Rathaus , Jesuit Church , and Spreuer Bridge .

I find the area around the Reuss River in Lucerne’s old town to be very scenic. You can relax at Rathausquai and watch swans under the flower-decked Chapel Bridge, a favorite spot for photos. You might also enjoy walking on the other bridges over the Reuss River. Their iron railings and old-fashioned street lamps could make you want to take out your camera and snap some pictures. The beautiful house fronts are another highlight. If you find yourself at Jesuitenplatz, you can see their reflections in the Reuss River.

You’ll likely need about 1 to 1.5 hours to leisurely explore the Reuss River area. This includes crossing the river via the Chapel Bridge and Spreuer Bridge, photographing Torbogen Luzern and Rathaus, and visiting the Jesuit Church. But just to give you an idea, you can walk from Torbogen Lucerne to Spreuer Bridge in less than 15 minutes. If you’re quick and don’t dwell on the details, my estimate of 1 to 1.5 hours might be more than you need.

Map Of Central Part of Old Town Lucerne

In the old town of Lucerne, the central area is where you’ll discover charming details. If you’re into exploration and art, you won’t want to miss this part! The “hidden gems” can be found in the town squares indicated below:

These four squares are great examples of typical European city squares. They’re beautiful because they were designed with a focus on aesthetics. As the heart of the city’s political, social, and cultural life, they were made to be visually pleasing, reflecting the city’s wealth and status.

From these squares, you can see some of the city’s most beautiful buildings and charming fountains. The buildings are decorated with impressive murals, some of which are truly breathtaking! These murals, known as Lüftlmalerei, are a traditional Alpine art form. They often show the profession and favorite religious scenes of the people who own the houses.

You can probably explore the squares in the central part of Lucerne’s old town in about 20 minutes. But with so many shops and restaurants in the area, you might want to spend more time there.

Musegg Wall Area Old Town Lucerne

If you’re in Lucerne and want to experience something like a medieval movie, go to the Musegg Wall. It’s like stepping into a scene from Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones. There are 9 towers on the wall, but you can only visit 6 of them because the other 3 are in a private area. Here’s a map showing where the Musegg Wall is in the old town of Lucerne:

The Musegg Wall has great spots for seeing the old town. You can go up the towers and walk on the wall. But, it involves a lot of walking and climbing steps. So, wear comfy shoes… Overall, it takes a bit over an hour to climb the towers, walk around, sightsee, and take photos. But, it could be less or more time depending on how quickly you move. For example, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk from the Nölliturm to the Schirmerturm without stopping.

The best photo spots are north of the wall, between the Männliturm and Nölliturm towers. Here, you can get a great shot of the Hotel Château Gütsch with the Musegg Wall towers in the back. Want more tips?

Map Old Town Lucerne, Eastern Part

In the eastern part of Lucerne’s old town, you’ll find two of the most impressive and meaningful works of art: the Lion Monument and the Bourbaki Panorama . By visiting these, you’ll also be near the Glacier Garden and Hofkirche , another notable landmark. Known as the Church of Saint Leodegar, Hofkirche boasts an imposing facade that makes a beautiful backdrop for a souvenir photo.

If you happen to visit the Church of Saint Leodegar, I recommend also checking out the lakeside promenade for some refreshing and relaxing views. It’s just a few steps away from the Hofkirche. Below is a map of the eastern part of Lucerne’s old town

Each of these tourist attractions typically takes 15 to 30 minutes to visit , except for the Glacier Garden, which usually takes about 2 hours. So, you might need around 3.5 to 4 hours for a relaxed trip to these spots in the eastern part of Lucerne’s old town.

While there’s no specific time you need to visit these places, the Bourbaki Panorama is usually only open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. If you’re still planning your Lucerne itinerary, I suggest visiting the eastern part of the old town in the afternoon. If you’re there in the summer, when the weather is often wonderful, you might catch a beautiful golden hour view of Lake Lucerne with Mount Pilatus in the background.

Old Town of Lucerne Tourist Attractions

Let me share more about the various attractions in Old Town Lucerne that are highlighted on my map. More information can be found in the resources section of this post.

1. Torbogen Luzern

If you take a train to Lucerne, the first thing you’ll notice is Torbogen Luzern. This used to be the main door of Lucerne’s old train station from the 19th century, but a fire in 1971 almost destroyed it. Now, it’s a famous spot known for its big, Renaissance-like design and a sculpture named Zeitgeist on top.

See Torbogen Luzern on the map.

2. Chapel Bridge

The Chapel Bridge is Lucerne’s most iconic landmark, unique enough to be a compelling reason to visit the city. It’s recognized globally because it’s the oldest truss bridge in the world and the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe . One of its unique features is the triangular paintings on its gables that narrate the history of the city and of Switzerland. Read my quick guide to the Chapel Bridge for more information.

See the Chapel Bridge on the map.

3. Town Hall of Lucerne

In Lucerne’s Old Town, many beautiful buildings line the Reuss River. Among them is the Town Hall of Lucerne, one of the city’s oldest structures. It dates back to 1602. Located in Rathausquai, this landmark dominates the city’s skyline. It’s worth a quick stop to admire its Italian Renaissance architecture and ornate door, which is a feast for the eyes. I’m particularly fond of its cute door knob , which bears a charming resemblance to a platypus.

See Rathausquai on the map.

4. Jesuit Church

The Jesuit Church is another beautiful building by the Reuss River. If you’ve seen many European churches, the Jesuit Church in Lucerne might seem ordinary at first. But, it’s actually one of the most beautiful churches in Switzerland, especially when you see the inside. The interior is decorated with intricate rococo stucco designs that are truly impressive ! This style really showcases the culture of Catholicism. Here’s what you can expect to see inside the Jesuit Church .

See the Jesuit Church on the map.

5. Spreuer Bridge

Back in the day, there were three wooden bridges in Lucerne. The two surviving are the Chapel Bridge and the Spreuer Bridge. Spreuer Bridge is the shorter version of the Chapel Bridge. They both have triangular gable paintings. However, the ones in the Spreuer Bridge are more special because they form one of the largest cycles of Danse Macabre paintings in the world .

See the Spreuer Bridge on the map.

6. Musegg Wall

The Musegg Wall, Lucerne’s largest landmark , is 9 meters tall and stretches 900 meters from the Reuss River to the old town’s east. It’s a remarkably preserved medieval structure that offers a glimpse into the middle ages. Two must-see spots are the Zytturm and Männliturm. The Zytturm, the fifth tower from the river, houses a unique exhibit of clock mechanisms and offers views of the lake, city, and mountains. The Männliturm, the only tower with an open deck, offers a 360-degree panorama of Lucerne. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Musegg Wall .

See Musegg Wall map.

7. Glacier Garden

The Glacier Garden in Lucerne is a haven for natural history lovers, housing a variety of geological and paleontological exhibit s, along with diverse flora. Its main attraction is the rock formations, known as “glacial potholes,” resulting from glacial erosion during the Ice Age. What’s more? The garden features a mirror maze, modeled after the Alhambra palace, providing entertainment for all ages. It also boasts a lookout tower, with a unique yet underwhelming view of the city. (The view from Musegg Wall is better)

See Glacier Garden on the map.

8. Lion Monument

The Lion Monument is another renowned landmark in Lucerne, serving as a poignant memorial for Swiss soldiers who perished defending the last French king during the French Revolution. This massive lion sculpture, measuring 10 by 6 meters, powerfully conveys the sorrow and pain of those who lost their loved ones. The lion’s expression resonates deeply with visitors , underscoring its status as a compelling work of art. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Lucerne’s Lion Monument .

See the Lion Monument on the map.

9. Bourbaki Panorama

In Lucerne, the Bourbaki Panorama is a notable historical artwork alongside the Lion Monument. This circular painting, over 100 meters in circumference, portrays the retreat of General Charles Denis Bourbaki’s French army during the Franco-Prussian Wa r. Housed in a custom-built rotunda, it offers an immersive experience as visitors can view the painting from various angles. The panorama depicts scenes from the retreat, including the piling of arms and a Swiss Red Cross wagon. Interestingly, it incorporates 3D figures that blend seamlessly with the painting.

See Bourbaki Panorama on the map.

10. Hofkirche (Church of Saint Leodegar)

Hofkirche stands as a unique architectural attraction, distinguished by its blend of German Renaissance and Gothic styles . Its towering, pointed twin towers are eye-catching from any point along the shores of Lake Lucerne within the city. The facade and main portal of Hofkirche are simply unmissable; perfect for selfies and photo souvenirs. Check this out to see what awaits you inside Hofkirche .

See Hofkirche on the map.

Sources: Lucerne Map & Points Of Interest

For the attractions in Lucerne that I didn’t provide links for, you can find more information about them on the following sites.

• Town Hall on Kornmarkt | Luzern.com
• Official Website of Glacier Garden 
• Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne

Planning a trip to Lucerne? I’d love to recommend my partner’s hotel search and booking website . It’s a fantastic resource for finding great accommodation deals. With features ranging from hotel cancellations to membership points, it’s a tool I personally find very useful. Give it a try! Just a heads up, the link I provided is an affiliate link. This means I might earn a small commission if you book your hotel through it. But don’t worry, there’s absolutely no extra cost to you . Consider it as a way to support WanderInEurope, enabling me to create more helpful guides like this one. Your support is greatly appreciated . Safe travels!

At the start, I mentioned that Bern and Lucerne are fantastic places to explore on foot. I have another favorite spot that I think you’d also enjoy. It’s called Lauterbrunnen , which I adore for its heavenly appearance. Its beauty is unreal. Truly, you have to see it. Wander here… you won’t regret it! Lauterbrunnen is located in the Jungfrau Region , home to more idyllic villages like Iseltwald , Grindelwald , Wengen , Mürren , and Gimmelwald .

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The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to Lucerne, Switzerland

LAST UPDATED: 1/27/24 – Visitor’s Guide to Lucerne, Switzerland

Switzerland is an absolutely beautiful country.  Situated in the heart of the European Alps, Switzerland has some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in all of Europe.  However, because Switzerland is the most mountainous country in Europe, people tend to overlook the fact that Switzerland’s beautiful landscapes consist of more than just mountains.  Some of the most beautiful lakes, valleys, and cities that I have seen in my travels I saw while visiting Switzerland.

Perhaps no other city in Switzerland combines the mountains, a beautiful lake, and a charming city into one package like the city of Lucerne.  Just a short lift ride from being in the thick of the Swiss Alps and sitting on the coast of one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes, Lucerne really does have it all.  Not many other places can you go sailing in the morning and then take a trip up into the mountains in the afternoon.

In this guide to Lucerne, Switzerland, I am going to give you all of the information you need to plan your trip to Lucerne.  I will outline the passport and VISA requirements, the times of year it is best to make your visit, the hotels and hostels I recommend, which restaurants and tours are worth checking out, and a list of the top things to see and do in the area.  With this information in hand, you can be sure that your trip to Lucerne will be the trip of a lifetime.

Lucerne Visitor Guide Navigation Menu

At a glance.

Before you start making any travel plans, you need to be sure you meet the country’s entrance requirements. This includes all of the passport, VISA, and immunization requirements for Switzerland. 

In addition, you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of what languages they speak in Switzerland. This way, you can plan any translation needs you may have. Not only that, but you will need to know what currency they use in Switzerland. Knowing this, you can plan to exchange currency before your trip if necessary.

I have included some of this key information in my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland below for you to review as you start to make your travel plans.

Passport, VISA, Customs, and Immunization Requirements

To assist you in navigating the legal requirements for visiting Switzerland, I outline the key entry requirements below.

This information is critical to understanding the requirements you will need to meet to ensure you are allowed entry into Switzerland. This includes the VISA, passport, customs, and immunizations requirements and recommendations.

Travel Immunizations

Before you leave for your trip to Lucerne, you need to make sure you have all of the proper vaccinations.  Not only to protect yourself but to protect others.  If you have questions on what immunizations you will need and what to look out for when you go to get them, below are some general guidelines I can pass on to you from experience.

Travel Immunization Advice

• Most specialized travel clinics will not accept insurance so you will have to pay for your travel consultation and immunizations and then request reimbursement from your insurance company later.
• Some immunizations aren’t accepted by every insurance company, so check with your insurance provider before getting your immunizations.
• Check with your regular doctor first, as often they can do a travel consultation for you and write you the necessary prescriptions for your immunizations, even if they aren’t able to give them to you.  This way you can ensure that at least your travel consultant will be covered by your insurance up-front.
• Check with  Walgreens   or other drug stores that give flu shots to see if they have any of the immunization shots that you require before going to a specialized clinic that doesn’t accept insurance to get them.  Walgreens can give you many of the immunizations necessary for international travel, and they accept insurance up-front.
• The  Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website   can be a great resource for answering any travel immunization questions that you have.

Switzerland Immunization Recommendations

You may be wondering which travel vaccinations you will need for Switzerland. To assist you, I have compiled a list in my guide to Lucerne Switzerland below. These are some of the vaccinations you can expect your physician to recommend.

• Hepatitis A & B  (if you haven’t had them).
• Tetanus  (if you aren’t current).
• Transderm SCōP Patch (for motion sickness) or at minimum Dramamine pills if you get motion sickness easily and you plan on getting out on the water or doing adventure activities.

Packing Tips

Outside of knowing the entry and immunization requirements, there is no pre-travel task more important than packing. Don’t worry, I am here to make sure you are packed and prepared for your trip. I have included links to my packing resources in my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland below for you to review.

How to Get to Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne is located in North Central Switzerland and sits next to the large lake that shares its name with the city.  Because of its location, a stop in Lucerne is relatively easy to fit into a trip to France, Germany, or Austria.  If you are looking to fly into Switzerland to visit Lucerne, your best bets are the major cities of Bern or Zürich.  Both cities are just a short train ride or drive from Lucerne.

View Larger Map

Lucerne is situated in the ideal location to give residents and visitors easy access to one of the largest lakes in Switzerland as well as the Swiss Alps.  There is a great network of trains and lifts that access the upper reaches of the Alps from Lucerne and a ferry system that can take visitors across Lake Lucerne.

Because of its central location, Lucerne is located relatively close to several large Swiss cities such as Bern, Zürich, and Geneva.  In addition, if you are visiting France, Germany, Austria, or Italy, Lucerne’s central location also means that you are still relatively close to cities like Milan, Paris, Munich, and Graz. 

To give you an idea of how long it would take to travel from some other cities in the region to Lucerne, I have included a chart for you to review in my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland below.

Traveling By Train

One of the easiest ways to get around Switzerland is by train.  Switzerland has an extensive system of tracks that even reach the higher altitude cities in the Swiss Alps.  In addition, in my experience traveling throughout Europe, I have found that Switzerland’s rail pass is the best in Europe.  When you purchase the pass, you can use any train, boat, bus, or gondola (with some limitations) in the country for the duration of the pass.

If you are traveling from Bern to Lucerne, the train ride is relatively short and inexpensive.  You will pay roughly $43 US dollars for a one-way trip and the trip will take roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.  The good news is that trains leave Bern for Lucerne roughly every half hour, which makes travel from Bern to Lucerne rather convenient.

From Zürich

Traveling from Zürich to Lucerne is even easier, cheaper, and more convenient than traveling from Bern.  A one-way trip to Lucerne from Zürich will only cost you roughly $28.46 US dollars and the trip will take under an hour.  Not to mention, with three trains running from Zürich to Lucerne each hour, it isn’t hard to catch one.

From Geneva

Although more expensive and a longer trip than travel from Bern or Zürich, the trip from Geneva isn’t outrageously long or expensive.  If you would like to combine a visit to Lucerne with your trip to Geneva, a train ticket will cost you roughly $79.67 and the trip will take about 3 hours.  There are roughly 3 trains that run between Geneva and Lucerne each hour, so it isn’t too difficult to catch one throughout the day.

Traveling By Car

If you would like to have a little more flexibility in your travel than a train affords, another option that you have when visiting Switzerland is to rent a car.  Switzerland has a very well-maintained road system that accesses much of the country, but you won’t be able to access some of the areas in higher elevations with your car.

Luckily, Lucerne is very accessible by car if you would like to rent one for your trip.  Not only that, but the drive from Bern, Zürich, and Geneva to Lucerne is relatively short and easy.  The one thing you will want to be aware of is the weather. 

Because much of Switzerland is at high altitudes, you will need to be prepared for poor weather conditions if you are going to drive.  To give you an idea of how long it would take to drive to Lucerne, I have included some driving maps below for you to review.

Driving from Berne

The drive from Berne to Lucerne is roughly 110km and will take you 1 hour and 15 minutes. For more information, please see the map below.

Driving from Zürich

The drive from Zürich to Lucerne is roughly 52km and will take you 40 minutes. For more information, please see the map below.

Driving from Geneva

The drive from Geneva to Lucerne is roughly 265km and will take you 2 hours and 45 minutes. For more information, please see the map below.

Top Things to See in Lucerne

Lucerne is a beautiful city with a lot of amazing things to see and do.  To assist you in planning your time while in Lucerne, I have included some of the top sights and experiences for you to review in this guide to Lucerne, Switzerland.  To help you get orientated, I have included a map of the general area surrounding Lucerne below. 

The key locations you will want to be aware of are the main train station in Lucerne (in case you want to take excursions outside the city), the location of the Cog rail to the Swiss Alps (which is accessible from Lucerne by train or boat ride), and the lift\train station to access Mount Pilatus (which is one of the most dominant features surrounding Lucerne).

In the city of Lucerne itself, there are a lot of amazing things to see and do.  To assist you in your planning, I have listed the top attractions that I would recommend below.  When I laid out the hotel recommendations in this guide to Lucerne, Switzerland above, I tried to keep the hotels as close as possible to the majority of these tourist sites.

Mount Pilatus

It is almost impossible to miss because Mount Pilatus is the most dominant feature in the landscape surrounding Lucerne.  At 6,995 feet (or roughly 2,123 meters) it is an impressive mountain to look at.  If you would like to get some spectacular views of Lucerne and the surrounding area, there are a few ways to get to the top of Mount Pilatus. 

The first is the traditional cog railway, which happens to be the steepest railway in the world.  The other option is an aerial cable car (pictured above) that will take you to the top of Mount Pilatus.

The map above shows the different options for getting to the top of Mount Pilatus.  The easiest option is to take the aerial cable car, known as the Dragon ride, to the top of the mountain.  The other option is to take either a train or ferry to the town of Alpnachstad on the other side of the lake.  From there, you can take the steep Cog Railway to the top of Mount Pilatus.

The Chapel Bridge

The Chapel Bridge, which is known locally as Kapellbrücke, is arguably the most famous structure in the city of Lucerne.   This beautiful wooden, covered footbridge over the Reuss River is the oldest wooden covered footbridge in Europe and is often decorated with flowers. 

Inside the bridge, you will find many paintings that date back to the 17th century (like the one below), although many of the paintings were destroyed in a fire in 1933.  It is a great place to take a stroll while touring the city.

The Lion Monument

One of the most moving features in Lucerne has to be the Lion Monument.  The Lion of Lucerne, which is known as Löwendenkmal locally, is a carving that was designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn in 1820–21.  The monument was built to commemorate the Swiss Guards who were murdered during the French Revolution in 1792.

It is widely recognized as one of the most moving sculptures ever created.  In fact, the American writer Mark Twain once referred to the Lion of Lucerne as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world”.

If you are going to explore the city of Lucerne, which I highly recommend you do while you are in town, then one area that you absolutely need to explore is the Old Town area.  There are a lot of really beautiful old buildings in the area, as well as neat shops and fantastic restaurants.  When I visited Lucerne, we spent a good amount of time just walking the streets of Old Town and enjoying this beautiful part of the city.

In addition to places already on this list (such as the Chapel Bridge), there are several places in Old Town that I recommend you check out.  Town Hall, the Kornmarkt, and Jesuitenkirche are my favorites.

Lake Lucerne Boat Ride

No trip to Lucerne is complete without a boat ride on Lake Lucerne.  It is such a big and beautiful lake with breathtaking mountains as a backdrop.  The docks for the boat tours are within walking distance of the train station and the heart of Old Town, so it really isn’t too far out of the way. 

If you purchase a Swiss Rail Pass while in Switzerland, the boat ride is free of charge.  If you don’t have a Swiss Pass, then I would recommend that you look into a Lake Lucerne Panoramic Sightseeing Cruise , which is really quite affordable.

Take the Cog Rail to the Swiss Alps

One of my favorite things that we did while in Lucerne was to take a train up into the Swiss Alps.  I cannot begin to explain how beautiful it was up there, nor will any pictures that I post do the experience any justice.  It really is a ca n’t-miss experience that you really have to enjoy for yourself. 

To get to the train station to take you up into the Alps, you will want to take a boat ride from Lucerne to the Vitznau Train Station on the other side of Lake Lucerne.  From there, you can take a train up into the Alps.

As you can see below, the views from up in the Alps are absolutely breathtaking.  We took the train up to the top and then hiked back down to the train station.  It was one of the most beautiful and breathtaking hikes that I have ever done.  Make sure you have your camera with you as you will want to take a lot of pictures.

The Musegg Wall

Another fascinating feature in Lucerne that is worth exploring is the historic Musegg Wall.  This 13th-century fortification that stretches around the Old Town of Lucerne is very well preserved to this day.  If you would like to tour the wall, four of the wall’s towers are open to tourists.  The most notable of these towers is the Zytturm Clock Tower, which I discuss below.

Walk Along the Reuss River

After a long day exploring the city of Lucerne and the surrounding areas, a great way to finish the day is to take a walk down by the Reuss River.  After exploring the Chapel Bridge, you can walk through Lucerne following the river.  There are a lot of great restaurants and shops to stop at and the river walk is absolutely beautiful.

Zytturm Clock Tower

Most notable of the Musegg Wall’s towers that are open to the public, the  Zytturm Tower is worthy of a visit because it houses the city’s oldest clock.  Built in the year 1535 by one Hans Luter, it strikes the hour one minute before all other clocks in the city.  It is a beautiful tower with a lot of history, which makes it a must-see when visiting Lucerne.

Hirschenplatz (Stag Square)

Hirschenplatz, which is also known as Stag Square, is one of the most famous squares in Lucerne.  There are beautiful old buildings and breathtaking facades in the square, which are worthy of visiting to see on their own.  The square has historical significance because it used to be used to hold the city’s hog market.

Another one of the famous towers in Lucerne’s Musegg Wall, I think the Nölliturm might be the prettiest of the towers.  This tower is the closest to the Reuss River, which is why I think it is the most beautiful.  Built around 1500, the tower has recently undergone some renovations.  It currently belongs to the Safran Guild and is open to the public.

Have an Authentic Fondue Dinner

No trip to Switzerland is complete without an authentic fondue dinner.  The cooking style originated in this region and they do it by far better than anywhere else I have eaten it.  Some recommended restaurants in Lucerne for a good fondue meal include Fondue House , Schiff Restaurant Wilhelm Tell , and Zunfthausrestaurant Pfistern .

Taste the Swiss Chocolate

Another absolute must when you visit Switzerland is to try the delicious Swiss chocolate.  Whether you are looking for just a little taste or would like to buy a big sheet of this sweet deliciousness, there is something for everyone with a sweet tooth.   Some great places to try for really good chocolate include Läderach , Max Chocolatier , and Lindt Chocolate Shop .

Best Time to Visit Lucerne

As I mentioned previously, Switzerland is the most mountainous country in Europe, so the Temperature is going to vary quite a bit depending on what altitude you are going to be visiting.  When you visit Lucerne, you have a mixture of altitudes as the city itself sits at only 1,385 feet (or 391 meters), but the city is surrounded by the Alps, which are obviously much higher.

In addition to temperature, another factor that you will want to consider before planning your trip to Lucerne is the level of precipitation you will likely see when you are there.  In this section of my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland, I outline all of the factors to help you determine what time of year it would be best to plan your visit.

Temperature (°F)

As you can see in the chart below, the summer months of June thru August can be rather warm, but not too hot, while the winter months of December thru February can be cold, but not too cold.  In my opinion, when it would be best for you to visit will depend largely on what you want to do when you are there. 

If you plan on spending a lot of time out on Lake Lucerne, winter is probably not the best time to visit.  If you plan to visit the adjacent mountains to do some skiing, then the summer months probably aren’t the ideal time to visit.  However, if you plan on visiting just to see the city and the sights, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Lucerne from a temperature standpoint.

Precipitation (Inches)

A big factor that you will want to consider when planning your visit to Lucerne is the amount of precipitation that the city receives.  As you can see below, Lucerne gets considerably more rain during the summer months than it gets during the rest of the year.  If you are planning on spending a lot of time hiking or on the lake, this will be an important factor for you.

In addition, during the winter months, Lucerne also gets a fair amount of snowfall. If you are visiting the area to go skiing, this may be an important factor for you. However, if you aren’t planning on skiing, a lot of snow can make transportation more difficult. You will want to consider the average snowfall for the area in your travel planning.

Personally, I like the autumn months of October and November because they typically see less precipitation than the summer months and aren’t as cold as the winter months.

Where to Stay in Lucerne

Choosing where to stay is an important factor when planning any trip, and it is no different when visiting Lucerne.  You will want to be somewhat close to all of the tourist sites and activities, and be comfortable where you are staying, but not break the bank on accommodations. 

To help you decide which hotel or hostel is the best fit for you, I have included several recommendations at different price points in my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland below.  All of these options are in good locations for tourism, and all have excellent reviews on TripAdvisor.

Where to Eat in Lucerne

The food you eat when you travel is a big part of your travel experience.  Having great experiences at restaurants and trying really good food can really elevate a trip, just like having bad experiences at restaurants or trying bad food can really put a damper on a trip. 

To assist you in locating some highly rated and recommended restaurants in Lucerne, I put together a list of some of the top-rated restaurants in Lucerne on TripAdvisor.  A few of these restaurants I have personally tried and really enjoyed. You will find this list in my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland below.

Recommended Tours in Lucerne

If you would like to add a little bit of adventure to your trip, or if you are just interested in learning more about the history, culture, and food in Lucerne, there are some amazing tours and excursions that are available.  To assist you in finding the right tours that fit your needs, I have included a wide variety of highly rated tours for you to review in my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland below.

Lucerne Photo Gallery

Lucerne, Switzerland is a magical place.  In addition to having some absolutely beautiful scenery, the city of Lucerne itself is both beautiful and charming.  If you would like to see some of my photos, I have included a gallery in my guide to Lucerne, Switzerland below.

If you would like to see more of my travel photography, I would also encourage you to give me a follow on Instagram . Putting this blog together to pass on my free guides, itineraries, and travel photography tips is a lot of work and your support in the form of a follow-on Instagram would be so very much appreciated!

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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17 BEST Things to Do in Lucerne, Switzerland (+Map, Info & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2024

Visiting Lucerne in Switzerland, and wondering what to see and do in Lucerne? In this article, we share the VERY BEST places to see and things to do in Lucerne . You’ll learn about the main sights and attractions in the city itself, plus the most popular excursions to Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi that are also considered as not-to-miss experiences in Lucerne.

Nestled on the shore of Lake Lucerne and among the beautiful snow-capped mountains, Lucerne ( Luzern ) is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. It’s also one of the most popular places to visit for international tourists traveling to Switzerland.

The reasons why are easy to see. Compact and easy to explore, it is steeped in history, its ancient architecture lovingly preserved. Like a scene from a fairytale, the city is both beautiful and romantic, with a range of experiences and attractions for the entire family to enjoy.

In this guide, we’ve put together a list of the top sights and things to see and do in this friendly and welcoming city. We also include some tips and a map that will help you make the most of your visit.

Top 3 Experiences & Tours in Lucerne:

• Mt Pilatus Excursion .
• 1-Hour Lake Cruise .
• Mt Titlis Excursion .

TIP: If you are visiting Lucerne for just the first time, opt for a city walking tour with a local guide. It’s a great way to get acquainted with the city, covers all the musts, and you can combine with e.g. Mt Pilatus excursion or Swiss Trasport Museum (more info about all these below). Another nice option for the first visit is this city walking tour that also includes a boat ride on Lake Lucerne .

If you have a few days in the area, be sure to read our guide to the best day trips & excursions near Lucerne .

Without further ado, here are the very best things to do in Lucerne, starting with the main sights and attractions in the city itself:

1. Chapel Bridge & Water Tower

Chapel Bridge ( Kapellbrücke ) is one of the most iconic landmarks of Lucerne. This covered wooden footbridge is the best-known and most photographed sight in Lucerne, featured in all brochures and travel guides. A walk over the famous Chapel Bridge is a must-do in Lucerne!

Built in the early part of the 14th century, Chapel Bridge is the oldest surviving truss bridge in the world. It runs diagonally across the River Reuss and links the Old Town of Lucerne with the right bank.

The bridge is really picturesque, but it is also historically interesting, with triangular 17th-century paintings in the ceiling pediments . These portray scenes from Lucerne’s history and images of its patron saints. There were once many more paintings than you can see now, but these were sadly destroyed by a fire in 1993. This fire also devastated much of the bridge itself. Subsequent renovations have restored the bridge to its former glory, although you can still see some fire damage on the paintings.

Next to the bridge stands the 34 m high Water Tower ( Wasserturm ) which was built in the 13th century as part of Lucerne’s defenses. Older than the bridge by about 30 years, it has never actually contained any water and is named for its location instead. During its history, it has been used as a treasury, an archive, and a prison. Today, it houses the Lucerne Artillery Association on the middle floor and a souvenir shop on the ground floor.

Good to know: No matter what time of year you visit Lucerne, you can get some great photos here! The bridge is festooned with flowers in the summer and covered with a dusting of snow in the winter. There is no fee to walk over the bridge and it’s always open.

TIP: If you are staying in town, come here at sunrise or sunset for magical views with (at least in the morning) no crowds! And lookout for the Alpine Swifts that roost under the rooftop of the Wasserturm – their return from their African winter home marks the beginning of spring for locals.

2. Old Town

Lucerne’s picturesque Old Town on the right bank of the Reuss River is just stunning. Visiting it truly feels like taking a step back in time, with its historic architecture beautifully preserved. The good thing is that the historic old town is quite compact and the area is totally pedestrianized, so it is easy to explore on foot.

You’ll find plenty of opportunities for memorable photos, from narrow cobblestoned streets and ancient bridges to medieval squares with fountains. The tall, timber-framed buildings are brightly painted in rainbow colors and look really picturesque.

Many of the buildings’ facades are richly decorated with figures of court jesters, knights, milkmaids, and more. Some of the very best are to be found at Hirschenplatz , Kramgasse , Sternenplatz , and Metzgerrainle .

Head to the Kornmarkt to see the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). This impressive stone structure was built from 1602 to 1606 in the Italian Renaissance style but features a very Swiss-looking hipped roof. Its ground floor was once a trading hall but is now used for concerts and exhibitions.

Adjacent to it is a 14th-century clock tower with a pointed maroon roof that dominates the skyline throughout the Old Town.

Don’t miss Weinmarkt square, just to the west of the Kornmarkt . Walled by medieval guildhalls, this beautiful town square was the town’s fish market until the middle of the 16th century. It features a Gothic central fountain that many visitors agree is the prettiest in Lucerne!

In the Kapellplatz you will find Lucerne’s oldest church, St. Peter’s chapel. It was built in 1178 but was restored to its current form in the 1700s.

Good to know: The old town is also a great spot for shopping and taking home some authentic Swiss souvenirs, including chocolates, army knives, and watches. You’ll find many international chains here, too, such as Fossil, H&M, Guess, etc., plus some of Lucerne’s best restaurants and cafes.

TIP: Head to the Rathausquai (Town Hall Square) any Tuesday and Saturday between 6 am and 1 pm to visit the bustling fruit and vegetable market . The stalls are set up in the arcades along the river and the lively atmosphere – not to mention the great views of Chapel Bridge – make it well worth a visit.

3. Boat ride on Lake Lucerne

Let’s leave the highlights of the city for a bit because truly, one of the best things to do in Lucerne is actually escaping the hustle of the old town and taking a boat ride on the famous Lake Lucerne . It’s especially nice to do in the summer but is possible in any season.

There are several different options when it comes to boat trips on Lake Lucerne. A lot will depend on how much time you have. But since the shortest boat rides only require an hour or two of your time, it’s really something not to be missed when visiting Lucerne.

Good to know:  Boat trips start in the heart of the city center, just near Lucerne Railway Station (and a 5-minute walk from the Chapel Bridge). There are several options throughout the year, but – of course – many more in the summer than in the winter.

Here are  some of the best boat tours from Lucerne :

• 1-hour scenic  panorama cruise . This is the most popular boat trip you can do in summer (and on the weekends in the shoulder season).
• 2-hour   gourmet lunch cruise . This is one of the best boat tours that can be done at any time of the year.
• 3-4 hours:  City walking tour + scenic boat ride . This is a perfect choice for those who are visiting Lucerne for the first time and want to see the best of the city and its surroundings in just a few hours. Available in all seasons.

And – if you have more time – you can just get a day ticket at the boat terminal and explore the lake with one of the many boats that stop at different villages along the shores of Lake Lucerne. You can also just stay on the boat and get back to the city without getting off. It all depends on the time you have and the places you want to see.

Good to know: If you have the Swiss Travel Pass, regular cruises on Lake Lucerne are included free of charge.

LEARN MORE: Swiss Travel Pass: What’s Included & Is it Worth It

Good to know: In summer, you can also rent pedal boats and explore Lucerne from the water. You won’t be able to go that far, but it can be something nice to do if you have half an hour to spare.

We saw one rental place close to Seebrücke bridge, and also one on the waterfront promenade.

I indicated the locations on our map of Lucerne attractions further below.

4. Spreuer Bridge

Back to the main sights in Lucerne city again. Spreuer Bridge ( Spreuerbrücke ) may not be quite as well known as Chapel Bridge, but it’s also well worth a visit! Located just a short distance away, this is the spot where Lucerne’s flour mills were once allowed to dump their waste. This gave rise to the bridge’s name, which came from the word ‘sprue’ (meaning chaff).

Like Chapel Bridge, Spreuer Bridge is also covered and constructed from timber.

Built in 1406, it, too, contains artwork, but quite different from that found on Chapel Bridge. Instead, on the triangular panels under the rafters are 45 rather macabre paintings of the Totentanz (Dance of Death). The largest example of a Totentanz cycle believed to exist, the works were painted by Swiss master Kaspar Meglinger and his students from 1616 to 1637.

TIP: If you are a little disappointed that Chapel Bridge is a modern reconstruction of the original, you will appreciate the more historic construction of Spreuer Bridge. Either way, you really have to see both of these bridges when visiting Lucerne!

Good to know: Just as most sights in Lucerne’s old town, Spreuer Bridge is free to see and is always open.

5. Musegg Wall & Towers

Lucerne’s Musegg Wall and its nine towers (aka Lucerne Ramparts Walk ) is another really nice thing to do in Lucerne. Located just a little bit off the way from the main sights in the old town (but only 3-5 minutes walk from the above-mentioned Spreur Bridge), it feels like somewhat of a hidden gem. Only the most popular tower is busier; the rest is usually rather quiet.

Musegg Wall and its towers were originally part of Lucerne’s fortifications. It runs along the north of the Old Town and was built between the mid-14th and early 15th centuries.

You can’t walk all along its length, but the section dating back to 1386 is virtually intact. In summer, you can even climb 4 of the 9 towers: the Schirmer Tower ( Schirmerturm ), the Zyt Tower ( Zytturm ), the Wacht Tower ( Wachtturm ), and the Männli Tower ( Männliturm ).

The panoramic views from the towers all are splendid, but many tourists don’t get to all the towers and just visit the Zyt Tower, aka Lucerne Clock Tower . This tower is among the most famous landmarks in Lucerne and it houses the oldest clock in the city. It tolls the hour 1 full minute earlier than any other clock in town! You can see its mechanisms when you are inside, and if you’re lucky to be here a minute before the hour, you can hear the bell ring.

Good to know: There is no fee to visit. Wear appropriate footwear if you plan to walk on the walks and climb the towers. Some steps are quite steep. Also, the towers are only open in the summer season, but you can always just walk over and see what is accessible. It’s worth seeing the walls and the exterior of the Zyt tower either way.

You can do the walk on the Musegg Wall in either direction. We started at Nölliturm , by the river, and walked towards the Zyt clock tower. That way, you visit the most impressive tower at the end, but you do have some uphill walking to do at first. You can also easily do it the other way around – it really doesn’t matter that much. Part of the walk is on the walls between the towers, and part – on the road following the wall.

6. Lion Monument

One of Lucerne’s most iconic sights, the monument of a dying lion ( Löwendenkmal ) is located in a green and idyllic spot just to the north of Löwenplatz. It’s just a 10-15 minutes walk from the old town and Chapel Bridge.

Designed by the Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, the Lion Monument was carved into the face of a sandstone quarry in 1820. Its purpose was to commemorate the death of Swiss troops that perished whilst protecting King Louis XVI at the Tuileries Palace during the French Revolution.

The carving is huge and very symbolic. You can see an intact shield featuring the Swiss coat of arms behind the lion, who is resting on a broken shield bearing the fleur-de-lis of the French royal family. It is a very poignant sight and was described by Mark Twain as the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world.

Good to know: This is a lovely and serene spot to sit for a while, with a tranquil pond immediately in front of the massive sculpture and gardens nearby. This is one of Lucerne’s free attractions and you can visit at any time.

7. Glacier Garden of Lucerne

Located right next to the Lion Monument, Glacier Garden of Lucerne ( Gletschergarten Luzernstunning ) is a natural relic of the Ice Age that was discovered in 1872.

Originally formed by retreating glaciers 20,000 years ago, it features potholes created by glacial waterfalls. You can also see the fossils of palm fronds and shellfish dating back 20 million years. This is when the area was the shore of a subtropical sea. The experience is enhanced by some very sophisticated animation projected onto the rocky structures.

A series of interactive exhibits help you get a better understanding of the area’s ancient geology. There is a working model showing glacial movement and how it affected the landscape and explanations of how climate change is impacting our world. You can also see an early climber’s hut, plus an observation tower that gives you some excellent views across Lucerne to Mount Pilatus.

The on-site museum is housed inside the former home of the Amrein family who founded the Glacier Garden. It is fascinating, containing an 18th-century relief model of Switzerland, historic rooms, and rock specimens.

The museum also features an ‘ Alhambra mirror maze ‘ which contains 90 mirrors. It was originally created for the 1896 Swiss National Exhibition in Geneva , then transferred to Lucerne in 1899. Great fun for young and old!

Good to know: Glacier Garden of Lucerne is open daily, from 10 AM to 5-6 PM, depending on the season. For practical info, check their website .

TIP: Entry is included in the Lucerne Museum Pass and is free with the Swiss Travel Pass.

8. Jesuit Church

In 1573 the city of Lucerne invited the Jesuits to construct a college, the aim being to reduce Protestant influence at the time. The Jesuit Church ( Jesuitenkirche ) – designed by Austrian and Italian architects and located on the southern bank of the Reuss – was consecrated in 1677.

It was the first large Swiss church north of the Alps to be built in the Baroque style. Additions and alterations were made over subsequent years, with the completion of the onion-domed towers taking place in 1893.

You might feel a little underwhelmed when you see the Jesuit Church from the outside as it is relatively plain. But the inside is a different story, with ornate stuccowork in the side chapels, white marble, and a stunning painted ceiling. So be sure to take a look inside – it’s well worth a few minutes of your time!

TIP: Check their website before you go as you may be able to coincide your visit with one of the church’s popular organ recitals.

9. Franziskanerplatz & Franciscan Church

Franziskanerplatz is a beautiful town square on the left bank of the Reuss in the heart of Lucerne. For some reason, it’s often overlooked by many guides to the best places to see in Lucerne. But it’s absolutely worth a visit! This picturesque town square is home to some really nice and colorful traditional buildings.

Franciscan Church ( Katholische Franziskanerkirche ), located here, is also more than worth a quick visit. It’s just as interesting as the other two churches included in this guide.

The church was built in the 13th century as part of the Franciscan Monastery and looks quite simple from the outside. But the Gothic interior is really impressive – with one of the most beautiful pulpits in Switzerland, an impressive altar, and an angel-ceiling on one of the side altars.

Good to know: Lucerne Christmas market takes place on Franziskanerplatz. It’s usually open during the first three weeks of December.

TIP: When exploring the left bank of the Reuss river, take a few minutes to walk around the area a bit more. You can see some impressive architecture here, including some Renaissance palazzos, nice little town squares, and lots of colorful historic buildings.

10. Church of St. Leodegar

More impressive is the exterior of the Church of St. Leodegar ( Hofkirche St. Leodegar ), sometimes referred to as the Cathedral of Lucerne.

The iconic twin steeples of the Hofkirche are located where the eighth-century Benedictine monastery of St. Leodegar once stood. The monastery was followed by a Roman-style basilica, which burnt down in the 17th century during the Thirty Years’ War. Lucerne then built its new church, preserving the towers of the building before it. It is now seen as Switzerland’s most important Renaissance church.

There are many interesting features to look out for here.

A Late Gothic sculpture portraying the Agony in the Garden is on the north tower. All around the church are arcades where prominent members of old Lucerne families were laid to rest. The adjacent graveyard is also worth a visit.

Inside the church, you can see elaborately carved pulpit and choir stalls dating back to 1639. There is also a polychrome Maria-End-Altar on the north side of the nave which was originally made in the 1500s and rescued from the fire. This shows the Apostles supporting the ailing Virgin Mary. You can also see a high altar made of black marble, which dates back to the time of the restoration in the 17th century.

Good to know: Hofkirche is located on the top of a hill that overlooks Lucerne’s historic Old Town. There are also some other really impressive traditional buildings in the area around the church.

11. Swiss Museum of Transport

The Swiss Museum of Transport ( Verkehrshaus der Schweiz ) could just as well be listed at the very top of this list of things to do in Lucerne. It’s that good! The only reason we didn’t list it at the top is because it’s located a bit outside of the city center, requires at least a few hours of your time, and is, therefore, a place that many tourists don’t get to.

But if you do have a couple of hours to spare, then a visit here is absolutely worth it. It’s a definite must if you are visiting Lucerne with kids! Our boys kept on talking about it months after we visited, and are already saying that we should make an excursion to the museum next time we go skiing in Engelberg (close to Lucerne). Yes, they’re even willing to give up a day of skiing for it!

Made up of a mixture of exhibition halls and outdoor displays, this fascinating museum is a great place to visit in Lucerne in any season and in any weather . The best part is that everything is interactive and you won’t get bored for a second. Also, once inside, all the experiences are included in your ticket.

It’s a fun place to learn about the development of all different forms of transport over the years, from aircraft and rockets to ships and cars. There are both models and real examples, including Switzerland’s very first diesel locomotive and 30 different aircraft. Nice to see is also an auto-theater, where cars from throughout the years are stacked six-high on shelves. Here, you can also do a car crash test.

Our kids especially loved the flight simulators , where you can pilot an airplane or a helicopter.

In addition to the Transport Museum, there are several other attractions at the same location. You can visit a newly updated 150-projector Planetarium that offers shows every day, plus a 3 D film theater showing documentaries on Switzerland’s largest screen. Meanwhile, you can learn all about state-of-the-art trends in communication at Media World , with exhibits featuring virtual reality and more.

And if those activities weren’t enough, how about a chance to learn about how Swiss chocolate is made? The ‘ Swiss Chocolate Adventure ‘ does just that via a multimedia journey – and you get to taste some, too! You could easily spend an entire day here and still not see it all!

Good to know: The museum is open daily and you can get the tickets that also include Media World. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass you will receive 50% off the cost of entry to the museum. If you have an entire day, opt for the day-pass instead. It includes admission to the museum, Swiss Chocolate Adventure experience (can also be done separately ), Media World, Filmtheatre, and Planetarium.

TIP: To really appreciate everything this museum and the other attractions at the same site have to offer, try to set aside a whole day for your visit. This is the most popular museum in Switzerland, and with good reason. As a minimum, count 2-3 hours just for the Swiss Museum of Transport itself.

12. Lakeside Promenade

Another really nice thing to do in Lucerne is to walk along its lakeside promenade . If you cross the Seebrücke bridge at the railway station and turn right, you can walk along the waterfront for several miles.

The first part of the waterfront promenade, in the city center, has many grand buildings , most dating from the end of the 19th – the beginning of the 20th century. You’ll see Grand Hotel National Luzern , Grand Casino Luzern, Mandarin Oriental Palace (former Hotel Palace Luzern, which is currently undergoing renovation), and many others.

The first part of this pedestrian promenade is lined with trees , and it has the feel of a nice cozy park. There are places to play petanque, boat rentals, cafes, playgrounds, etc. Even if you don’t walk much further than this, it’s nice to come here, if just to escape the crowds and the summer heat. In the summer, you can also go for a swim at Seebad Luzern.

If you do take the time to walk further, you’ll pass some luxury homes that likely cost multiple millions (if they ever come on the market). Continuing even further along the lake, you’ll reach the Swiss Museum of Transport and Lido Lucerne – Lucerne’s Beach.

Good to know: If you decide to walk from the city center to the Swiss Museum of Transport, count 30-40 minutes, likely a bit more if you want to have a relaxing walk and not rush. It’s a really nice walk, and you can also take a boat to come back (or vice versa).

13. Mt Pilatus

Some people would say that Mt Pilatus ( Pilatus Kulm ) is one of the main attractions of Lucerne, and should be at the top of any list of places to see in the city. Indeed, it’s well worth a visit, but more as a day trip from Lucerne. That’s why we didn’t list it at the top.

Even though it’s located just nearby, Mt Pilatus is not a place you just hop over to. You really need to count at least 4-5 hours for a visit here. If you can, plan a separate day for it, in addition to the city itself. But yes, if you only have 1 day in Lucerne, you can see the main sights of Lucerne city and visit Mt. Pilatus on the same day.

From the top of Pilatus Kulm, you have stunning views of the city, Lucerne Lake, and the surrounding mountains.

In addition, if you do the famous  Mt Pilatus Golden Round Trip , you get to ride on a scenic gondola, enjoy amazing views from an aerial cable car, take a journey on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, and enjoy the views from the scenic boat ride on the lake.

It’s a nice way to see some very diverse scenery in just a few hours and also to experience so many different modes of transport (always a big part of any Swiss mountain experience).

Good to know: Mt Pilatus can be visited the whole year, but the best season is between mid-May and mid-October. That’s when the boats and the cogwheel trains operate, and you can also do some hiking at the top.

Getting there: The most popular way to visit Pilatus is either by booking the  golden trip  or the  silver trip . In addition, there are also  organized tours  if you prefer to go with a local guide. You can find more info about all the options in our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Mt Pilatus from Lucerne

14. Mt Rigi

Just as Mt Pilatus, Mt Rigi ( Rigi Kulm ), aka the Queen of the Mountains, is worth a day trip in itself. It’s another popular mountain destination near Lucerne, just on the other side of the lake than Mt Pilatus. So the views from here are somewhat different.

Whether it’s worth doing both, that’s another question. A lot depends on how much time you have in Lucerne, and which other places you visit nearby.

Anyway, a day trip to Mount Rigi is another typical Swiss mountain experience – with a variety of transport options including the historic Vitznau – Rigi railway, nice views, and lots of fun outdoor activities. It’s also a year-round destination and it has more to offer in winter than Mt Pilatus.

Good to know: You need at least 5-6 hours for an excursion to Mt Rigi from Lucerne. However, the train schedule is more flexible than transport options on Mt Pilatus, with trains running in the evening too, so it can be somewhat easier to visit here, depending on when you arrive in Lucerne and how much time you have.

Getting there:   One of the most popular options is the  Classic Round Trip . It includes two scenic boat rides, a ride on a rack railway, and a cable car. With less time, skip the boat and just visit Mt Rigi with this ticket that includes all the transport on the mountain, but not the tickets to/from Lucerne.

Now that we listed all the main places to see in Lucerne, I want to mention a couple of more things to do for those who have more time in the city itself .

Two of these attractions are museums, and so it can be something nice to do in Lucerne when it rains, or when it’s really cold in the winter. Take a look!

15. Bourbaki Panorama

The Bourbaki Panorama is another interesting place to visit in Lucerne. It’s a very unusual museum that contains one huge panoramic painting stretching inside the circular building.

In addition, there are also some temporary expositions, but the main feature is, of course, this circular painting by Swiss painter Edouard Castres.

The painting is truly gigantic – 10 on 112 m (33 on 367 ft). It depicts the internment of tens of thousands of French soldiers who fled to Switzerland at the end of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870–1871. In the 19th century, Switzerland already became known as a neutral country, staying out of military conflicts, but helping those in need.

TIP: Be sure to ask for an iPad guide (included in the ticket price) so that you get a narrative explaining what you see.

Good to know: The museum is open daily, except on some public holidays. Opening hours vary per season. For more information, check their website .

16. Rosengart Collection

Located in the former National Bank building on Pilatustrasse, Rosengart Collection ( Sammlung Rosengart ) is the private collection of the Lucerne art dealer Angela Rosengart. It has only been open to the public since 2002 and mainly features post-Impressionist art. There are 300 pieces on display at any time, including works by Monet, Cézanne, Kandinsky, Léger, Chagall, and Matisse.

More prominently, there are 125 paintings and drawings by Paul Klee. These are displayed in the basement of the three-story building and arranged to highlight his evolving style. Across the entire ground floor, you will find a collection of Picasso’s paintings from 1938 up to 1969, plus some of his early drawings.

Along with her father, Angela Rosengart was personally acquainted with these artists and you can see paintings of her amongst Picasso’s displayed works.

More than just an art display, this museum strives to help you get to know the artists a little better. There are around 200 photographs of Picasso, some of them featuring him at work. There are also lots of different guided tours available, aimed at adults, children, or families. During these tours, you discover more about the pieces on display and the lives of the artists who created them.

TIP: Don’t miss the video – shown in the conference room on the top floor of the museum. It gives you the background to this collection and how it was gifted to the city.

Good to know: The museum is open daily, except on some public holidays, with opening hours varying depending on the season. For more information, see their website .

17. Funicular Gütsch & Views from Hotel Château Gütsch

If you have some extra time and are looking for something less touristy to do in Lucerne, take Funicular Gütsch to the top of the mountain west of Lucerne city center. Here, you’ll find a historic 19th-century Hotel Château Gütsch and stunning views of the city.

The views from here are stunning, with Lucerne city beneath and Mt Rigi in front of you! There’s also a forest with walking trails.

TIP: The hotel has a nice restaurant/ cafe with an outdoor terrace, and non-guests can also have a drink or lunch here.

And, of course, if you are looking for a nice place to stay in Lucerne, Ch âteau Gütsch is a nice choice. It’s quite conveniently located for sightseeing in Lucerne, and – if you are traveling by car, you’ll be glad to know that it has private parking.

Good to know: The funicular runs daily from very early in the morning until about an hour past midnight. The ride takes 1.5 minutes and costs just a few CHF.

Map of Lucerne Attractions

Lucerne city is quite compact and most of the main sights are located really close to each other. Only the Swiss Museum of Transport is somewhat further away but can be reached by public transport or even on foot via the Lakeside Promenade.

Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi are a bit outside of the city.

We indicated all the best places to see in Lucerne on the map below. This will give you a better idea of where everything is and will help you plan your sightseeing.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to stay for sightseeing in Lucerne

If you are traveling by train , stay in the city center of Lucerne, close to the railway station. There are lots of nice hotels within a short walking distance. Here are some of the best options for all budgets:

• 5* Hotel Schweizerhof – lakeside location, one of the most luxurious hotels in the city.
• 4*+ Hotel des Balances – old town location, some rooms have amazing views.
• 4* Radisson Blu Hotel – a very popular modern hotel right next to the station.
• 3* Hotel des Alpes – a wonderful higher mid-range budget hotel in the old town with amazing views.
• 2* Hotel Restaurant Stern – a great-value hotel in the old town.
• 1* ibis budget Hotel Luzern City – one of the best budget options.

If you are visiting Lucerne by car , take a look at the above-mentioned Hotel Ch âteau Gütsch ; it has private parking (fees apply, but much cheaper than in the city center). Most hotels in the city center don’t have on-site parking, but you can use one of the public parking garages nearby.

Of course, you can also just stay outside the city and just drive to Lucerne when you want to explore the attractions in town. This is what we did on one of the recent trips when we stayed in the area for about a week. We opted for Seeblick Höhenhotel in Emmetten, about half an hour drive from Lucerne city center.

So, this is our guide to the best places to see and things to do in Lucerne, Switzerland. I do hope that you have enjoyed this guide and that it will help you plan an enjoyable and memorable stay.

TIP: In addition to Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi, there are so many other amazing places to visit around Lucerne . Take a look at our best suggestions via the link below.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from Lucerne

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration – some of our favorite places in Switzerland:

• What to see and do in Bern
• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Zermatt  (+  Gornergrat  &  Matterhorn Glacier Paradise )
• Interlaken day trip
• How to visit Mt Titlis
• How to visit Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe
• Things to do at Grindelwald – First
• … for more places, please see our Switzerland travel guide .
• You may also like to check out our tips for traveling to Europe .

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Friday 28th of July 2023

To guide or NOT to guide? =) First of all, thank you for all of this wonderful information. I will be making my first trip to Switzerland. For the Mt. Pilatus trip as well some others like Jungfraujoch, I am not sure which way to go. I am perfectly fine navigating the different modes of transport and would enjoy being able to spend more liesurely time exploring, rather than the rigid times to have to stick to woth a guide. However, without a guide, will I be missing any of the commentary/information or is it really all about the scenery, views and experience? Or can i go up with a guide and once at the top, come down on my own? Thanks you for your advice.

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Hi Shyam, if you are comfortable researching all the transport options yourself, you really don't need a guide and can just visit everywhere on your own. Depending on where you are traveling from, for some places, sometimes booking a guided tour means that you'll have a bit more time at the place itself because most tours use private buses so you travel faster than by train, especially if your train journey involves 2-3 train switches. Sometimes, going with a group can also be cheaper than going on your own because they get group discounts. But all of this really depends on the destination. As for guided tours themselves, also that depends on the destination, the tour you choose, and the guide. You'll always learn more interesting facts from a local guide, but if you are just interested in the scenery, it's definitely not a must. You'll certainly have much more flexibility and potentially be able to do some more hiking if going on your own. Hope this helps.

Shelley Bodnar

Tuesday 25th of July 2023

Hello Jurga! We are from Canada and planning our first trip to Switzerland this September. We have 3 nights booked just outside of Lucerne and 2 nights booked in Lauterbrunnen. We have the STP for 5 days commencing on our second day there. Our first day we will explore Lucerne on foot. The 3 mountain excursions and hikes we have researched (also with the help of your articles) are Mount Pilatus, Mount Rigi, Stoos Ridge Hike, and possibly riding the Stanserhornbahn Funicular. Since we only have 2 days maximum for day trips from Lucerne are there two of these excursions that we could possibly do on the same day with an early morning start? We are trying to fit in as much as we can in a short time.

For our second part (based out of Lauterbrunnen) we have narrowed our list of hikes and excursions to: 1) Mannlichen -Klein Scheidegg hike, 2) your recommended Oberberghorn Panorama Trail, 3) First - Bachalpsee Hike and 4) Schilthornbahn cable car excursion. Are we missing any "must sees"? Can you recommend how these could be sequenced to make the best use of our limited time? It is very overwhelming trying to find a workable itinerary and any advice or help you can give would be greatly appreciated. I am probably missing other fantastic areas to explore - any suggestion would be great!

Thank you so very much. I love reading your articles. Shelley

Thursday 27th of July 2023

Thank you so much for this quick and thorough reply. Much appreciated.

Hi Shelley, any of two mountain excursions are usually not easy to combine in one day because of distances and the opening times of the gondolas. The only place that's open longer is Mt Rigi railway. Ideally, with 2 days in Lucerne, you do one mountain excursion each morning and explore more of the city in the afternoon. If the weather is exceptionally good, you have a car, and you start very early, you might be able to quickly visit two places in the mountains on the same day, but it will likely be quite rushed, very expensive, and you won't have much time to enjoy it. The same for Lauterbrunnen, don't try to visit too many different areas, unless you can 'connect' them. For example, you can easily combine the Panorama Trail between Männlichen and Kleine Scheidegg with an excursion to Jungfraujoch and also walk around Lauterbrunnen valley or visit Wengen on the same day. If you take a train to Schynige Platte and hike the Oberberghorn Panorama Trail there plus continue over Faulhorn, you would pass Bachalpsee and end at Grindelwald-First. It's a long day and a serious hike, but that's the only way to visit these two areas on the same day. Otherwise, you really need a day for each of these separately. Once again, this is mainly because of the operating hours of mountain trains/gondolas. You could probably combine Männlichen - Kleine Scheidegg with Grindelwald-First on the same day, but in that case, you won't have the time to visit Jungfraujoch, and you'll end up paying for two very expensive tickets instead of one. Schilthorn is yet another excursion that you could combine with some hiking in Mürren, visit Lauterbrunnen, and depending on when you get back down to the valley, you could maybe also visit Trümmelbach Falls. My tip is not to try to see 'everything', but pick one area each day and explore it to the fullest. It's the best way to truly enjoy it without spending a fortune on tickets and all your time running from one gondola to another. If you are still set on trying to visit many of these areas in a short time, consider getting a multi-day pass of the Jungfrau region as that could save you quite some money on tickets. But if I recall well, you need at least 3 days for it to make sense. PS The Swiss Travel Pass doesn't include all these gondolas and trains in the mountains. It includes public transport between towns, etc. but only gives you discount on most mountain excursions. There are just a few exceptions. You can find more info in this article: Swiss Travel Pass. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Patti Lingaur

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

This is an awesome guide. How can I get a copy of it? My husband I will be visiting for the first time in July for 4 days. We will be taking the train from Basel to Lucerne and staying at the Casada Boutique Hotel. The city walking and boat tour sound lovely. Is there a day trip you would recommend near Lucerne? Can you travel up the mountain without going on the cog train?

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Hi Patti, if you absolutely need a copy of this, you can simply print it (Ctrl+p). For day trip suggestions, please see this article: Lucerne day trips. I am not sure I understand your last question. It depends on which mountain you mean. If it's Mt Pilatus, you can also just take a gondola there instead of a cogwheel train (or both - one up and the other one down). Here you can find all the information for visiting Mt Pilatus from Lucerne. If you don't have the time to read the entire article, you can just get the tickets for the gondola here. You can also just hike, but it takes much more time and can be a very long and tiring hike. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Friday 10th of February 2023

Thanks for this wonderful article Jurga! Really love what you are writing about. One of my favorite places around Lake Lucerne is Sisikon, where you can relax at the lakeside or take a swim in summer. The mountain-lake scenario is simply incredible and you can reach the place easily by boat from Lucerne. Have you already been there? Send you my warmest regards from Zurich, Marc

Saturday 11th of February 2023

Thanks for the tip, Marc, yes, we have passed that part of the lake a few times. Quite frankly, as pretty as it is, I think that places like that are much too 'local' for first-time (and even repeat) international visitors. If you only have a day or two in Lucerne (and in general, limited time in Switzerland), there are just so many amazing choices that are worth the time much more. Happy travels!

Ishan Jhaveri

Friday 23rd of September 2022

I just came across your post and really was fascinated with your blog. I wish i had this time to travel arround, I am going to switzerland with my wife and a infant of 20 month old. (We are going on 28th september till 11th october). We have planned from Zurich to geneva in between stopping at Locarno, lucerene, and grindelwald).

I required one help from you especially in Lucern. ( We have just 2 days where in one we want to see the old town- chappel bridge, lion monument and the transport museum)

Second day we want to visit Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Stanserhorn both on same day, is it possible. Like frankly we will just spend a couple of hours up there as we are with a infant.

I would really appreciate your advise and suggestion, if the earliest possible to help us plan.

Regards Ishan

Hi Ishan, your plan sounds ok, but it's difficult to advise much not knowing how you travel (car/ public transport). Also, keep in mind that the days are getting shorter and - in any case - the gondolas only run until around 4 pm (be sure to double-check). So if you want to visit both - Pilatus and Stanserhorn on the same day, you would have to start very early. For Pilatus, just take the gondola from Kriens and back the same way (so no trains or boats that many people do since that will require much more time). And then drive to the gondola in Stanserhorn. I'm not sure how feasible this would be if you don't have a car though - you'll have to research public transport options between Kriens and Stanserhorn. Getting to Kriens is very simple - by car or R-bus from Lucerne center. The other day - Lucerne town and Transport Museum sounds ok. Alternatively - this would be my personal recommendation - you can split the mountain excursions and do one each morning. Then on one afternoon, visit the old town and on the other - the Transport Museum. I think this would be much more relaxing. Also, keep an eye on the weather forecast as that might influence your ultimate itinerary anyway. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

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Things to Do in Lucerne: Your Ultimate Guide

Nestled at the north end of Lake Lucerne, the charming city of Lucerne boasts an array of attractions that appeal to travelers of all types. With its well-preserved medieval core, elegant historic buildings, and inviting atmosphere, it’s no wonder Lucerne is considered one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations.

As you plan your trip, prepare to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.

Begin your Lucerne adventure by wandering the cobbled streets of Altstadt (Old Town), and admire the iconic Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, which span the River Reuss. A visit to the medieval Musegg Wall and its towers is a must for panoramic city views.

Switzerland’s iconic peaks, including Rigi, Pilatus, Stanserhorn, and more, are right at your doorstep.

Lucerne Highlights

• Chapel Bridge & Water Tower
• Lucerne Old Town

Spreuer Bridge

• The Musegg Wall & Clock

Jesuit Church

• Cruise Lake Lucerne or walk the Promenade
• Glacier Garden & Lion Monument

Table of Contents

Top Attractions in Lucerne

Chapel bridge and water tower.

You can’t miss the iconic Chapel Bridge and Water Tower in the heart of Lucerne. This historic wooden bridge dates back over 650 years and was once part of Lucerne’s defenses. It was initially adorned with 168 unique paintings by Renward Cysat depicting the history of Switzerland and Lucerne. Unfortunately, there was a devastating fire on the bridge on the eve of the 18th of August, 1993.

Luckily, the majority of the bridge and the paintings were quickly restored and 147 of them are still with us to enjoy. Today, the Chapel Bridge can be seen with vibrant flower boxes, which make for a picturesque backdrop for your stroll across the Reuss River.

You should also take note of the 34-meter-high Water Tower as you cross the bridge. It has had many uses over the years, from torture chamber and prison to archive and treasury. Today, it is simply the headquarters of the Lucerne Artillery Association and home to returning black and white Alpine Swifts that nest here every year.

Pro Tip: Be sure to come to the Chapel Bridge either early or late in the day to avoid the large numbers of people that come here during the day. Also, incorporate it into your overall city tour as it joins the two sides of the river and makes for a great way to loop around the old town, across to the Jesuit Church and Spreuer Bridge further downstream.

Related Reading

Chapel bridge in lucerne: all you need to know.

I love to take a leisurely walk through the charming, cobblestoned Old Town of Lucerne . It is for me, one of the most stunning parts of this city, spreading itself out along the northern banks of the Reuss River.

There is so much to see and do in this medieval old town with numerous squares linked together by cobbled car-free roads. Here are some of the highlights you cannot miss:

• Weinmarkt – where back in 1332, the citizens of Lucerne decided to join the blossoming Switzerland. Don’t miss the beautiful 1481 Gothic fountain and the painted guild halls that are worth attention.
• Alt Rathaus (Old Town Hall) & Kornmarkt – Admire the stunning Town Hall built in the early 17th century, with its skyline dominating 14th-century clock tower.
• Kapellplatz & St Peter’s Chapel – Towards the Chapel Bridge end of the old town, this is the oldest church in Lucerne, dating to 1178.

It is also fun to get lost in this part of town’s side streets and alleys, so don’t get tied down to this exact list of things to see.

Pro Tip: You will discover countless great cafes and restaurants and also some of the perfect souvenirs along the way. Places like the Swatch and Victorinox shops to get those souvenirs you wanted, as well as Läderach or Max Chocolatier for Swiss Chocolate.

Another must-visit bridge in Lucerne is the  Spreuer Bridge , which was actually one of three such bridges that used to form the defenses of Lucerne. It too features a series of paintings, this time created by Caspar Meglinger between 1625 and 1635 depicting the rather macabre “Dance of Death.”

As this covered bridge is so much further downstream from the Chapel Bridge, fewer people come here. It is worth the trip, though, as you get some great views up the Reuss River and also get to see some parts of the old town most people miss.

Pro Tip: Use this as the connecting point for a full tour of Lucerne, as you can head to the Musegg wall from here or dip straight back into the old town, or vice versa.

Musegg Wall and its Nine Towers

For a panoramic view of the city, climb the 800-meter-long Musegg Wall and its nine towers . They also form another integral part of the former defenses of the city. Following the Battle of Sempach, they were primarily constructed at the beginning of the 15th century.

This well-preserved city wall allows you to explore part of the wall and four towers, each offering distinct and stunning views of Lucerne and its surroundings. The most impressive one, and the one I head to the most with visitors is the Zyt Tower (Swiss-German for Time Tower or Clock Tower) . It is the oldest clock in Lucerne and you can explore its inner workings from the tower. It rings at one minute before the hour, so be sure to be there on time, and make sure your ears are covered when it strikes!

The other three towers that you can visit via the doors at their bases include:

• Wachtturm (Watch Tower) – named in 1768 when the guard room was moved there, previously the Heuturm (Hay Tower)
• Männliturm (Little Man Tower) named after the iron-clad figure on the tower
• Schirmerturm (Umbrella Tower) functioned as a gate tower to the city

The other towers which cannot be visited are: Nölliturm, Luegislandturm, Pulverturm, Allenwindenturm, Dächliturm

Pro Tip: The towers are free to visit but only open from Spring to Autumn – specifically, 8 am to 7 pm between 1 April and 1 November. Otherwise, if you come out of season, I recommend walking along the wall at the back so that you can experience the entire length and glory of this masterpiece of medieval architecture.

It’s well worth a quick visit to marvel at the beautiful baroque architecture of Lucerne’s  Jesuit Church , I have often ignored this church because it has such a bland facade . But the interior is nothing short of mind-blowing.

It was built between 1666 and 1677 after the Jesuits were invited to Lucerne in 1573 to help reduce the Protestant influence brewing in the north. You may have heard of what was happening with the Reformation in Zurich, but that story is for another time.

The real story of the Jesuit Church is its interior. The church’s ornate, frescoed ceilings, opulent altars, and magnificent organ make your head spin as you stare upwards in this lavish church. Beautiful stained-glass windows, gold accents, and rococo stucco are everywhere you turn. I had trouble deciding where to aim my phone when taking pictures.

Even if you are not into churches, as I am not, it is worth popping in to see how crazy churches can get. And given how boring this one appears, I was a little blown away by what was inside!

Pro Tip: If you want to soak up the information on the details of this church, be sure to get their App for your visit. There is one for the iPhone and one for Android .

Soak Up Lake Lucerne

How can you miss the breathtaking natural beauty of Lake Lucerne while you are in town? It is Switzerland’s fourth biggest lake, covering 114 square kilometers. If you manage to see it from above, you will notice that there are four main arms to the lake and at the far end it will remind you of the fjords of Norway.

Lakeside Promenade

There are many ways to enjoy the lake from Lucerne itself. Personally, I like to walk along the promenade, which starts right after the bridge where the Ruess River flows into the lake.

Simply follow the left-hand side of the lake and enjoy a pleasant stroll along the shore. You can take in Mount Pilatus and Burgenstock opposite you. And notice all the top-notch hotels with lakeside views behind you!

If it’s warm and sunny out, you can grab an ice cream at the start of the promenade, or go for a dip in the lake at the Seebad Luzern. Nothing beats swimming in a lake for a true Swiss experience!

Lake Cruise

Of course, my favorite way to entertain visitors is to enjoy some time on the lake with a cruise. There are a few ways you can do that. One is to take a specific Lake Lucerne cruise which might include dinner, sunset, or longer tours around the lake.

My best tip is to do the Mt Pilatus Golden Route, which starts with a cruise to the cogwheel train up Pilatus and ends with a gondola down the other side. You can also just take the Lake Lucerne ferries to several destinations like Vitznau, to then go up Mt Rigi, or to Burgenstock, to finally walk to the Hammetschwand Lift (more on that below). The options are endless!

You can also rent a pedalo, small motor boat or pontoon boat on the Lake. I saw the sign above along the way to the promenade while walking along the lake. It looks like an ad from these guys at Schwanenplatz Boat Rental. It might be worth checking out.

Glacier Garden

Discover the fascinating Glacier Garden , a geological attraction showcasing traces of a prehistoric ice age and a range of other attractions. This place has always fascinated me because of the story behind its discovery. Josef Wilhelm Amrein-Troller found them during construction in the back of Lucerne in 1872. This guy took what he found and instantly knew he had a major tourist attraction!

Over the years, it has expanded to include a range of things, sometimes, they may even seem confusing. There is

• the Glacier Garden itself, including the pots
• The Swiss House Museum
• The relatively new Rock Underworld
• The Alpine Park on the top
• and the Mirror Maze

So, even if you think that geology is boring, you can enjoy the amusement of the mirror maze or views from the Alpine Park, for example. The museum itself was the highlight for me because there are so many fascinating things collected by the Amrein-Trollers to see in their old house.

Pro Tip: Combine a visit to the Glacier Garden with the Lion Monument (below) and the Hofkirche St. Leodegar. You could do it all on foot via the Lake Promenade from the old town in half a day and catch the bus back.

Glacier Garden of Lucerne: Is It Worth Visiting?

Lion monument.

The final stop on any complete tour of Lucerne is the Lion Monument. The monument was designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn by Lukas Ahornit between 1820-1821. Which, if you see the monument up close, was quite a feat to do in the rock face!

It is a moving tribute to the Swiss Guards who perished during the French Revolution. This poignant sculpture is carved directly into the rock and shows a lion being impaled by a spear and lying on a shield bearing the fleur-de-lis of the French monarch. It is meant to symbolize Switzerland’s independence and its willingness to defend its sovereignty.

If history or sculptures are not your thing, it is worth visiting here to take a load off your feet for 15 minutes because the park is so quiet and relaxing, especially if you have walked from the old town and taken in the Glacier Garden too!

Pro Tip: Take a short stroll up to the Felsberg Park above the Lion’s Monument for some great views of Lucerne, the lake, and Pilatus in the distance. You get similar views at the viewing platform in the Glacier Garden, so if you are also going there, you can skip it.

Lion Monument, Lucerne: The Iconic Swiss Landmark

Short trips outside the old town.

Not everything worth visiting in Lucerne is in the old town, so if you don’t find a short bus ride or walk to get to those less-visited spots, then this section is for you.

Dreilindenpark

If you want some peace after the hustle and bustle of Lucerne’s old town, head out to Dreilindenpark for a stroll and some epic views. This is not somewhere most tourists come, so you will only see other locals there (or people who have read this :>). Consider it an insider tip!

The English garden-style park is the largest in the city at 35,000 square meters, with plenty of ancient trees to keep you company. The views alone are worth the 10-minute bus ride from downtown Lucerne. But you could also walk here in 30 minutes if you fancy getting your 10,000 steps in today!

There is also a “stately” villa called the Villa Vicovaro, the park’s centerpiece. And interestingly, this used to be the home of the Lucerne School of Music until 2020. There are now plans to make an art museum in the building.

The locals like to call this place “Konsipark,” but if you want to find it on Google Maps , then type in Dreilindenpark.

Chateau Gütsch

• Hotel Location: Google Maps
• Funicular station: Google Maps

Another short jaunt from downtown Lucerne with epic views is a ride in the funicular up to Chateau Gütsch . It is a stunning castle-like hotel that watches over Lucerne from the hills above. You may have noticed it from the old town and wondered what it is.

The hotel has been watching over Lucerne since 1879 when it was converted from a small Inn to a rather impressive hotel there today. It has seen such prominent guests as Queen Victoria, Henry Kissinger, Madeleine Albright, Shirley Bassey and Tom Jones, to name a few.

You can’t go inside the hotel (unless you are cheeky), but you get amazing views from the viewing platform next to it, as well as a quick but fun ride in a cheap funicular. If you have the Lucerne visitors card, the trip is included. Otherwise, it is just the cost of a local ticket, which you can get at the machine at the entrance to the funicular.

You can also walk up to the Chateau Gütsch in around 10-15 minutes from the path that enters the forest to the left of the funicular, which is what I did. I love to walk up and take transport down, but it is uphill, so not for everyone. You can see a quick map of that route here .

The Meggenhorn is another unforgettable destination just on the edge of Lucerne. It is a small peninsular facing the city, offering stunning views of the Lake and surrounding mountains.

Like the Dreilindenpark, it also features a beautiful castle, not surprisingly called Meggenhorn Castle. It was built between 1868 and 1870 by Edouad Hofer-Grosjean and was said to have been inspired by Châteaux Chambord, a castle in the Loire Valley in France.

There is lots to do in Meggenhorn aside from admiring the views; you can visit the castle on Sundays and public holidays between 12pm and 5 pm. There is also a cafe in the historic Orangerie, which is open in summer and well worth a cup of coffee in if you have the time.

Or, you can simply bring a picnic, go for a dip in the pristine lake and enjoy the views!

Like most Swiss cities, Lucerne is chock full of great museums, so you could easily spend one day of your trip here enjoying them. A few of the best are below if you need me to choose for you!

Richard Wagner Museum

If you are at all interested in classical music, make sure to drop by the Richard Wagner Museum. This historical museum is dedicated to German composer Richard Wagner’s life and work and is inside the villa he lived in from 1866 to 1872. Some of the inspiring things you will find in the museum include:

• original sheet music
• personal belongings
• some of Wagner’s letters

Nestled in a beautiful villa, you’ll feel inspired as you explore various artifacts; please note that the museum is closed on Mondays.

The museum has been renovated recently, and the ground floor now includes period furnishings that showcase life as it was during Wagner’s time there. The second floor shows the changes in the museum over the last few decades.

Pro Tip: Getting to this museum on foot takes around 30 minutes. So, for those who don’t want to walk, I recommend you take the boat service from the main pier outside the train station and KKL.

Although, if you are up for the walk, it is part of the Waldstätterweg, which goes all the way around the lake. This part starts in Lucerne and heads to Alpnachstad, but you can walk the part to the museum . It’s stunning to soak up the lake and the views!

Rosengart Collection

Art lovers should visit the Rosengart Collection, which showcases an impressive array of modern art. It is quite a young museum by most standards, as it was a personal collection of Swiss art dealer Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela. She created a foundation after his passing and opened the museum in 2002.

This museum is home to works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Klee (a famous Swiss painter ); soak in their creativity while admiring paintings, sculptures, and other works. Here are some highlights of the museum:

• Exceptional Pablo Picasso pieces
• Collection of Paul Klee’s work
• Other modern art masters, including Matisse and Cézanne

Pro Tip: The museum is behind the Jesuit Church, so you can easily combine these two. The Swiss Museum Pass/Swiss Travel Pass and Lucerne Museum Pass holders get free entry.

Swiss Museum of Transport

Dating back to 1942, the Swiss Museum of Transport is an epic dive into all things transport It is Switzerland’s most visited museum, featuring exhibits related to mobility’s past, present, and future. With plenty of hands-on displays, you’ll have fun exploring various forms of transport, including trains, cars, boats, rockets, and planes.

The museum also houses some exclusive attractions that you usually have to pay extra for:

• Film theatre
• Planetarium
• Swiss Chocolate Adventure
• Media World

Pro Tip: This museum is perfect for kids of any age. I have been with my 6-year-old godchild recently, and he loved it. Also, buying tickets before you arrive is best as it can get hectic. And, honestly, the museum is enough for one day, so you don’t have to buy all the extras unless you want to see everything.

Lucerne Visitor Card: All The Benefits & More

Nearby activities.

Lucerne offers a wide range of nearby activities, and here are some recommended options for you to consider during your visit.

Hammetschwand Elevator

The  Hammetschwand Elevator  is a fascinating attraction to visit. It is the tallest outdoor elevator in Europe and whisks visitors 153m (502ft) up to the summit in less than a minute. So, be sure to have your camera ready when the doors close; otherwise, you will miss your chance. I almost did!

The ride offers breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alpine landscape, and at the top, there is a restaurant where you can grab a drink or sit down to a meal with a view.

To reach the elevator, you’ll have to go on a short hike along the outer edge of the Burgenstock massive, first passing through the Bürgenstock Resort. It’s not a challenging hike, and it’s the only way to reach the lift. You can also make a round trip back down the mountain to the resort from the top if you want to make a longer walk of it.

Pro Tip: Make a day of this with a boat road from Lucerne to Kehrsiten Bürgenstock, then take the funicular to the Burgenstock Resort. Enjoy the views from the balcony at the resort, then hike along to the bottom of the lift.

Mount Pilatus

For another unforgettable day trip , head over to Mount Pilatus. You can reach the summit by taking the Pilatus Railway, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, or by cable car and aerial gondola.

So, there are several options to do this trip – the best being the Golden Round Trip, which includes a boat trip from downtown Lucerne. You can spend as long as you like at the top or even partway down at Krienseregg, where there is a rope part and other fun activities for kids.

Back at the top, take advantage of the multiple viewing platforms and trails to explore this stunning mountain above Lucerne. Don’t forget to stop by the visitor center to learn more about the legend of dragons believed to inhabit Mount Pilatus. And soak up the epic views of the Alps and Lake Lucerne below. It is a unique perspective of the town you now know, like the back of your hand.

Another popular destination,  Mount Rigi , is often called the “Queen of the Mountains.” You can access the mountain by taking a scenic boat ride across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau before hopping on the Rigi Cogwheel Railway, which dates back to 1871.

Once at the top, you’ll have a variety of ways to enjoy your time there:

• Take in panoramic views from the top of the mountain (Rigi Kulm)
• Hike along well-marked trails catering to various skill levels
• Enjoy a traditional Swiss meal at Rigi Kaltbad

Pro Tip: There is also a cable car you can take from Weggis right up to Rigi Kaltbad, with a designer spa with views of the lake and Alps! It’s a great place to overnight and enjoy the mountain air, stunning views, and some spa treatments to die for!

Shopping and Dining

Lucerne is quite a large city and the shopping there is not much different from what you will find in the larger cities, just more compact.

When visiting Lucerne, you’ll love exploring the charming Old Town (Altstadt) for shopping and dining opportunities. Wander through the beautiful alleyways filled with various boutique shops, department stores, and markets featuring fresh, regional products. You’ll find something for everyone, including:

• Clothing and accessories
• Handmade crafts and souvenirs
• Swiss chocolates and confectionery
• Art and design pieces

Souvenirs & Chocolate

If you are in the mood for souvenir shopping, the old town is also so compact you can almost find anything you need there.

Starting with souvenirs, you will find lots of boutiques with Swiss products and the usual souvenir shops (So I won’t bore you with details on those). However, some of the ones you might want to watch out for are the Swatch and Victorinox (Swiss Army Knives) shops for genuine Swiss products everyone knows and loves. Each has a store in the old town.

In terms of chocolate, which you all have to take back home, there are two places I would recommend you visit. Sure, you can pop into Manor or Coop and grab as much Lindt as you can carry, but the following two put you above the rest .

First, Läderach makes absolutely “to die for” large pieces of chocolate you can break off even bigger blocks. You can choose which flavor and how much and mix and match your own bag. They also have ready-made mixes if you are in a hurry. This idea is so popular now all the other big manufacturers in Switzerland are copying it. They also have boxes of chocolates and other goodies, so pop in even if you don’t want a chunk or block.

Second, there is Max Chocolatier – they are a premium chocolate maker who handmakes their chocolates in a small factory in Lucerne. Their main store is on the edge of the old town, which I found on my way back from the Glacier Garden. They also have a small store in the old town of Zurich, but that’s it! So, grab em while you can!

How Many Days In Lucerne (One, Two or More?)

Events and festivals, lucerne fasnacht (carnival).

When you visit Lucerne in winter, make sure you experience the city’s vibrant carnival atmosphere, usually during February or March. At this famous local event called Luzern Fasnacht , you can witness colorful parades, stunning costumes, spirited marching bands, and whimsical festivities that combine tradition and modernity. As the streets become filled with laughter and music, feel free to join in on the fun, immerse yourself in Swiss culture, and make unforgettable memories.

The whole season is called Fasnacht and occurs all over the country (and other neighboring countries) around the same time. But the best ones to see are in Basel (with Morgenstreich) and the one in Lucerne!

Here are some key events during the carnival:

• Fasnacht’s Eve:  The carnival season starts with an exuberant celebration where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the festivities.
• Carnival Parades:  Featuring intricate costumes, parade floats, and music, this is truly a highlight you cannot miss.

Lucerne Festival

Another major event in Lucerne is the internationally renowned  Lucerne Festival , which consists of various music festivals held throughout the summer (mainly August – September). The festival attracts top musicians and orchestras worldwide to showcase their talent and provide mesmerizing performances.

Some notable parts of the Lucerne Festival are:

• Summer Festival:  Lasting for four weeks between mid-August and mid-September, the Summer Festival focuses on a specific theme each year, with more than 100 events occurring all over the city.
• Lucerne Festival Orchestra:  This prestigious group of musicians delights audiences at the Summer Festival, offering enchanting performances to captivate your senses.

Personally, I find festivals a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet locals, too. Sure, you can come and see every single attraction Lucerne has to offer, but do you truly get to experience Switzerland that way?

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Self Guided Walking Tour of Lucerne (With Maps!)

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Famed for its meticulously preserved medieval architecture overshadowed by the grandeur of snow-capped Alps, Lucerne stands out as one of Switzerland’s most charming cities. Nestled snugly on the banks of its namesake lake, its vibrant Altstadt (Old Town) is flanked to the north by a 14th-century defensive wall known as Museggmauer (Musegg Wall).

The town’s origins trace back to St. Leodegar Abbey, founded in the year 840 AD, in the region then referred to as Luciaria. The source of this name remains uncertain, potentially linked to the Latin term for pike fish, “lucius,” suggesting a pike fishing location along the Reuss River. However, a more popular explanation associates it with the Latin word “lucerna,” meaning “lantern.”

In 1178, the town gained independence and emerged as a significant hub for trade. It joined the ranks of growing Swiss confederacy towns, attracting newcomers with its allure. In 1798, nine years following the commencement of the French Revolution, the French military entered Switzerland, leading to the downfall of the old confederacy and the establishment of a democratic government.

During the latter half of the 19th century, Lucerne transformed into a sought-after haven for artists, nobility, and prominent figures. In 1866, German composer Richard Wagner settled here, while British Queen Victoria elevated the city’s prominence with her 1868 visit. Renowned American writer Mark Twain further popularized Lucerne through his travel accounts after two visits, in 1878 and 1897.

Lucerne’s reputation as a stylish getaway contributed to its role as one of the pioneering epicenters of modern-style tourism. Several of the city’s most iconic structures originate from this era, including the 1896-built Lucerne Railway Station.

Positioned where the Reuss River exits the lake, Lucerne boasts numerous bridges. The most famous among them is the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), Europe’s oldest covered bridge, constructed in 1333. Downriver, another notable bridge stands—the Spreuer Bridge (Spreuerbrücke), completed in 1408.

The dual spire towers of the Church of St. Leodegar, named after the city’s patron saint, perch atop a small hill just above the lakefront. Initially constructed in 735, the current Renaissance-style edifice was raised in 1639.

Another unmissable local gem is the sculpture of a dying lion (the Lion Monument, or Löwendenkmal), situated within a small park adjacent to Löwenplatz.

How to get to Lucerne

By Train: This is the far easiest way to travel through Switzerland. The Luzern (Lucerne) Railway Station is strategically situated in the heart of the city, gracing the shores of the picturesque Lake Lucerne. Train tickets for high-speed and local trains can be purchased from the blue, grey and red ticket machines which are throughout the station.

By Car: Navigating the centre of Lucerne by car can be quite challenging due to its narrow streets, many of which are one-way, pedestrian zones, and the limited availability of parking spaces, which are often expensive and difficult to find. Daytime Camper Parking is reasonably priced and not too far from the city centre.

Blue zone parking : This is limited during the day to one hour and you must use a blue time disc, set to the nearest forthcoming half hour mark. At night it is unlimited till the morning.

White zone Parking: Unless stated otherwise, white zone is paid parking where parking sign states maximum parking time (usually 90 min).

Yellow Zones Parking: These are private or reserved for companies and may only be used by them or their clients and guests.

Guided or Self Guided Tour of Lucerne

While the guide below is all you need for an in-depth exploration of Lucerne, if you want to have a local guide take you I recommend the Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide .

Bahnhofplatz

Bahnhofplatz is located just outside the train station.

Bahnhofplatz serves as the central transportation hub in Luzern and the entire Central Switzerland region. Positioned in front of the station, this area acts as a launch point for buses connecting various parts of the town. Along the lakeside, an opportunity to embark on a leisurely cruise around Lake Luzern presents itself through boat services. Beneath the square lies the expansive RailCity shopping mall, interconnected with pedestrian walkways that lead to different sections of the town.

The grand stone arch marks the entrance to the historic former train station, originally constructed in the late 19th century, a time when Switzerland and Luzern attracted considerable tourism due to their steam-powered train networks. Tragically, a fire razed the station in 1971, and it was subsequently replaced with a contemporary facility. Presently, the arch discreetly conceals ventilation openings for the sizable underground parking facility underneath. This location has become a popular gathering point for local adolescents and individuals experiencing homelessness during evenings. A visit to the complimentary public restrooms here serves as a stark reminder that while free access to toilets is a blessing for some, it remains a privilege for others.

Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge)

Head through the arch of ‘Torbogen Luzern’ away from the train station. Turn left before you get wet in the lake and cross over the Seebrücke (See bridge as See is the German word for lake). You can see the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) in front of you.

To your left on the corner is a post office Crafted by Gustav Gull, a renowned Swiss architect of the late 1800s and early 1900s, this structure was conceived under his guidance. Gustav Gull’s architectural prowess also extended to the Swiss National Museum, positioned just across from Zurich Main Train Station. Constructed in the Neo-Renaissance style, this edifice was conceived during the late 1800s, shortly after the establishment of Switzerland as a contemporary nation. Adorning the upper reaches of the building, you’ll find four allegorical statues that symbolize Post, Telegraph, Shipping, and Railways – representing the duties of the fledgling Confederation.

The Chapel Bridge, an enclosed wooden pedestrian bridge, stretches diagonally across the Reuss River within the confines of Lucerne. Named in honour of the nearby St. Peter’s Chapel, this bridge holds a distinctive attribute: it houses an array of interior paintings that trace back to the 17th century. Although many of these artworks were lost in a fire that consumed much of the centuries-old structure in 1993, extensive restoration efforts ensued. As a result, the Chapel Bridge stands as Europe’s oldest wooden covered bridge and the world’s oldest enduring truss bridge. It bears the dual roles of Lucerne’s emblem and Switzerland’s most renowned tourist draw.

In its inception during 1333, the bridge was a component of Lucerne’s defensive system. It connected the older town on the right bank of the Reuss River to the newer town on the left, providing a shield against potential threats from the south of Lake Lucerne. Originally exceeding 200 meters (660 ft) in length, the bridge has undergone shortening over the years due to various alterations and riverbank adjustments, now measuring 170 meters (560 ft) in length.

Lucerne boasts a peculiarity in that all three of its wooden pedestrian bridges—the 14th-century Hof Bridge (now extinct), the Chapel Bridge, and the 16th-century Spreuer Bridge—incorporated painted interior triangular frames. This artistic element is not present in any other wooden footbridges across Europe. Crafted by the local Catholic painter Hans Heinrich Wagmann during the 17th century, the Chapel Bridge’s paintings depict significant events from Lucerne’s history. Out of the original 147 paintings that adorned the bridge before the 1993 fire, 30 have been meticulously restored.

Tip: Savour its enchanting allure during the nighttime hours, when the city illuminates, swans glide through the waters, flowers add to the ambiance, and a romantic aura pervades. Both riverbanks offer splendid shopping opportunities and an array of exceptional restaurant

Kapellplatz

At the end of the church, we are heading the a square behind the church. Either walk up the stairs to the back of the church or turn to your right to have a look at the tower, then follow around the building around.

This great square is called Kappellplatz or Chapel Square. Its name comes from St. Peter’s chapel, the oldest church in Lucerne. The building date is uncertain, but we do know that eight centuries ago when the town was organizing the priest of St. Peter’s was appointed as the caretaker of the people. He was Lucerne’s first mayor. Today the chapel offers masses in several languages. The Chapel also gave its name to Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) you just came across.

hapel Square, the inaugural site for Lucerne’s Carnival festivities. While you might have heard of Switzerland’s Carnival reputation being dominated by Basel, I don’t intend to dispute that. My assertion is that Lucerne’s Carnival is a spectacle worth witnessing, and the Luzerners take justifiable pride in it.

Nestled at the heart of the square is the Carnival Fountain, a relatively recent addition from the early 20th century. However, the origins of the carnival legend trace back much further, dating to the 15th century. Can you spot the gentleman sporting a crimson hat on the fountain? His name is Brother Fritschi, and it is said that his final resting place is beneath this very fountain. While a medieval graveyard exists nearby, the certainty of Brother Fritschi’s grave remains elusive. Yet, historical records confirm that this burial ground was designated for unmarried women, laborers tending to farms, orphaned children, and strangers. It’s possible that it encompasses a farmer from the mid-1400s. Legend recounts that whenever this farmer visited the town, he brought mirth and libations. Upon his passing, he left funds to one of the guilds, with the stipulation that wine be served to the less fortunate during the Carnival. To this day, the guilds continue to honour his wish.

The Fritschi parade, tracing its origins to the 15th century, marks the commencement of the Carnival Season. The procession features a life-sized straw effigy of Fritschi, escorted by various guilds and clubs, with drummers and pipers leading the way and soldiers with substantial beards and armour following suit. This parade not only heralds the onset of the Lenten Season but also commemorates a historical military triumph.

We will head north up Hans-Holbein-Gasse to Sternenplatz or Star Square. this picturesque square with amazingly beautiful murals on the buildings around. The square’s star-like shape, first described in the 17th Century, is thought to have given the Sternplatz its name. Follow the road around to the left and walk down Schlossergasse. At the small square with the well turn left, then first right into Kapellgasse. You soon come to Kornmarkt.

The origins of the Kornmarkt trace back to 1356, and true to its name, it functioned as the central grain market of the city until the 19th century. Notably, the ground floor of the Town Hall began serving as a storage space for grain starting from 1438, while the upper sections of the building transitioned into a functioning Town Hall in 1447.

In all of Lucern’s Old Town squares – Kornmarkt, Hirschenplatz, and Weinmarkt – you will find intricate painted facades vividly portray a range of themes, spanning from the art of beer-brewing to the realm of medicine.

Hirschenplatz

Leave diagonally opposite the Town Hall clock tower, turn first right to reach Hirschenplatz.

Search for the edifice distinguished by the sign of the stag. This plaza derives its name from the former Hirschen Hotel, the term “Hirschen” translating to “stag.” Interestingly, despite this name association, historical records reveal that the square originally served as a marketplace for pigs. Furthermore, the section in the southwestern corner earned the moniker “sweet corner.”

The Little Goose-Man Fountain, also known as Gänsemännchenbrunnen was made in 1891. Goldsmith Carl BossardBrunner had a reproduction of the original Little Goose-Man sculpture from the German Museum in Nuremberg, crafted by Pankraz Labenwolf in 1530. This replica, created by Heinrich Viktor Segesser, was then erected in Hirschenplatz. The tale of the Gooseman follows a similar narrative, culminating in the same outcome: his wife sends him to town to sell geese, and upon returning, his hands and pockets are empty, yet his spirits are filled with cheer.

The square also has Dornach House, a Neo-Gothic structure in predominantly white, hosts a mannerist fresco. This artwork vividly captures the 1499 Battle of Dornach, the final conflict between Switzerland and the Holy Roman Empire, celebrating the Swiss victory over Emperor Maximilian I’s forces. Despite significant odds – 6,000 Swiss against 16,000 Roman Empire soldiers – they achieved victory, showcasing their unwavering determination.

Walk to the square to the right of the Dornach House.

Despite its name, this square originally served as a fish market before gaining fame for its association with wine. It’s worth recalling that Lucerne’s roots extend back to being a fishing village before rising to prominence along the Gotthard Trade Route. The square’s strategic location, coupled with its alleyways seamlessly connecting to the river, made it an ideal spot for a fish market. Moreover, both the butchers’ and fishermen’s guildhalls found their place here, as evident from the guild signs that can be spotted in the surroundings.

Progressing into the early 1900s, Lucerne witnessed an increase in shopping and tourism. Consequently, the decision was made to renovate the old town, leading to the square’s renaming as “Weinmarkt” or “Wine Market.” This period of revitalization also witnessed the restoration of numerous murals and the addition of new ones. Notably, the verdant building at the far end of the square features a painting from 1928 depicting the wedding at Cana, where Christ performed the renowned wine miracle. This painting serves as a reminder of both wine commerce and the religious festivals that once graced the square. For nearly two centuries, the Passion of Christ was dramatically re-enacted here during the Easter Season, spanning two days with each performance lasting 12 hours.

The central fountain in the Platz pays homage to St. Morris, a soldier who holds the distinction of being one of Lucerne’s patron saints. Interestingly, another Swiss town, Saint Moritz, shares his name. The original fountain is now housed within the history museum. The fountains in this region draw their water from Mount Pilatus, with ultraviolet treatment employed to eliminate germs. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure their impeccable condition. Many of these fountains are over three centuries old and once served as the primary water source for numerous citizens at the time of their construction. Past the fountain stands the historic courthouse and town hall, a structure transformed into the Des Balances Hotel since 1836, consistently maintaining its esteemed reputation. The façade that faces the river mirrors the allure of a Venetian Palace. Conversely, the side adorned with frescoes, which now meets your gaze, was executed in the distinctive style of Hans Holbein. Holbein, celebrated as a luminary of the Northern Renaissance, is perhaps most famed for his portrait of Henry VIII.

Adorning the edifice, you’ll spot the words “Hotel Waage” positioned above the entrance. This hotel bore the earlier appellation “Waage,” which translates to “scales,” a tribute to the erstwhile courthouse that once graced this location. In the same way that murals were an emblem of prestige, a multicolored tile roof held similar significance. This very building made a pronounced statement through both its roof and façade.

Outside, on the left, stands a Linden tree, a symbol traditionally associated with justice. The penalty bench was situated in front of this Linden Tree, and it was under its boughs that justice was meted out until the early 1800s.

Rathaus (Town Hall)

Leave the square at the south west corner and folloe the road the the left. Turn right to get to the river and walk back the way you came with the river on your right. You soon come to the front of the Rathaus.

The Lucerne Town Hall, commonly referred to as Rathaus, stands as a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architectural style, captivating many as one of the most exquisite historical edifices in Lucerne. The commencement of Rathaus’s construction dates back to 1602, and the project reached completion in 1606. This remarkable creation was crafted under the design prowess of architect Anton Isenmann.

Positioned at the heart of the Old Town, Rathaus graces the banks of the River Reuss, offering splendid photo opportunities to visitors who seek a splendid vantage point for capturing the charm of the Chapel Bridge. This experience is particularly enchanting on Tuesdays and Saturdays between 6 AM and 1 PM, when market stalls come alive, inviting tourists to browse and shop while basking in the architectural splendor.

Within the Rathaus, visitors will uncover an exhibition hall and a concert venue. As they navigate towards the dovecote, they’ll have the chance to marvel at paintings and coffered ceilings that hail from times long past. Nestled in the Rathaus attic, the dovecote offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe and feed the resident birds, accompanied by an exhibition that delves into the history of the Rathaus doves.

Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche)

Head across the bridge and turn right to reach the Jesuit Church.

The Lucerne Jesuit Church stands as a Catholic place of worship in Lucerne. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the initial grand Baroque church erected in Switzerland north of the Alps.

Founded by Ignatius of Loyola in 1534, the Jesuit order actively engaged in the Counter-Reformation, a Catholic response to the emergence of Protestantism. The divide brought about by Protestant reformers like Zwingli in Zurich and Calvin in Geneva fragmented Switzerland, which was predominantly Catholic. In reaction to this, the Jesuits were summoned to Lucerne by the city’s council in 1573, with the purpose of establishing an educational institution.

Ludwig Pfyffer, Lucerne’s mayor, extended annual financial backing to the Jesuits from his personal resources. The Jesuit College of Lucerne took root in 1577 within the Ritter Palace, a structure originally erected in 1557 as a dwelling for Mayor Lux Ritter.

The construction of the associated church was initiated in 1667. By 1673, the primary exterior and façade of the church had been completed. The consecration of the church took place in 1677, even though the interior was not yet fully furnished. Various side altars remained absent, and the central altar itself was only put in place four years later, owing to financial constraints. The onion-domed towers reached completion in 1893. In the mid-18th century, the vault underwent redecoration. The inner chapel houses the original vestments of Brother Klaus, a revered Swiss patron.

Presently, while the church presents an appealing exterior along the river promenade, it’s the lavish, unaltered interior adorned in shades of pink and white that truly captivates. Entry is free, and upon stepping inside, visitors are treated to one of Switzerland’s most breath-taking churches.

Visiting Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche): Opening Hours: daily: 6:30am-6:30pm

Ritterscher Palace

Right next to the Jesuit Church, the Ritterscher Palace.

The Ritterscher Palace, presently housing the cantonal administration, draws in aficionados of art and history. One of its attractions is Jakob von Will’s “Dance Macabre,” an artwork of seven pictures and 23 scenes displayed in the top-floor corridor. These scenes encapsulate encounters between different social strata and death.

Once owned by Luc (Lucius) Ritter, a captain in the French King’s Regiment in Northern Italy, the palace came into being after his elevation to the leadership of Lucerne upon returning home. Eager to underscore his societal stature, he commissioned a Renaissance palazzo in the style of Florence. The renowned Italian architect Giovanni Lynzo directed the creation of the Ritterscher Palace, although he faced a grim fate, being condemned to death for heresy during its construction. Ritter himself passed away shortly thereafter. The town council oversaw the completion of the building, which was subsequently occupied by the newly arrived Jesuits starting from 1557. This remarkable structure presently serves as the seat of the cantonal parliament.

Should you be visiting during office hours, the elegant courtyard situated at the heart of the palace is open for your exploration.

Historisches Museum Luzern

Carry on up Bahnhofstrasse and turn first right to head back to the river. At the river walk along it with the river to your right.

The museum houses objects from the history of the city and canton of Lucerne , alongside items looted from various battles, such as the coat of mail of Duke Leopold von Habsburg , who fell in the Battle of Sempach. Various objects from everyday life can also be seen, as well as costumes from the Angélique Sophie Panchaud de Bottens collection, formerly in the Utenberg Costume Museum.

The building was built in 1567/1568 as a arsenal for the city and the state of Lucerne. It fulfilled this task until 1983. After three years of renovation, it was handed over to the public in 1986 as a historical museum.

Spreuerbrücke

Walk between the river and the museum to reach the Spreuerbrücke.

The Spreuer Bridge, an enclosed wooden footbridge, commences at Mills Square in the old town and extends to Pfister Alley. It’s also referred to as the Mills Bridge, and it attracts numerous tourists seeking to admire its splendid architecture and the captivating interior paintings.

The bridge’s original incarnation was constructed during the 13th century, yet it met destruction in 1566 due to a flood. Swift reconstruction followed, accompanied by the incorporation of the remarkable paintings. These paintings notably depict the Dance of Death, a prominent motif from the late Middle Ages.

Between 1616 and 1637, Kaspar Meglinger led the creation of the 67 paintings. These artworks frequently include details about the donors, such as their names and family crests. Some even boast portraits of the benefactors. Today, 45 of these paintings have persevered. The artistic treasures adorning the Spreuer Bridge have also earned it the moniker “The Dance of Death Bridge.”

Visitors are cordially invited to stroll along the pedestrian bridge at any time, but the true magnificence of the paintings is most vividly appreciated under the natural illumination of daylight.

Museggmauer (Musegg Wall)

Head up Brüggligasse which runs parallel to the river. When you pass Nölliturm, the first defensive tower turn right up the slope the the wall on your right.

The historical city wall once formed a vital part of Lucerne’s defensive structure. Presently, the Musegg Wall stands as a captivating vestige of the past, offering both intimate exploration and distant admiration.

Constructed during the 13th century, the wall and its nine towers originally comprised an inner and outer ring. Remarkably preserved, it ranks among the longest-surviving defensive walls in the nation. Those inclined to walk alongside the nine towers have the liberty to do so at any hour, as these towers are illuminated by floodlights during the night. However, only four of them are accessible to the public: Mannli, Zyt, Wacht, and Schirmer.

Mannli, signifying “little man,” stands as the second tower along the ascending ridge. It once served military purposes until the conclusion of World War II, after which it was made accessible to the general public. The Wacht Tower, also known as the Heu Tower, was originally employed for gunpowder storage. Following a lightning strike in 1701 that triggered an explosion, the tower was reconstructed. Zyt Tower, a clock tower, features the Leodegar Bell that chimes the hour preceding the city’s church clocks. As for Schirmer Tower, it once guarded the city gate.

From April to November, Musegg Wall and four of its nine towers welcome visitors between 8 AM and 7 PM, providing a remarkable opportunity to engage with Lucerne’s historical legacy.

Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden)

Pass under Schirmerturm tower and walk to the bottom of the hill. Walk along Museggstrasse until you reach Zürichstrasse then turn left. Walk along Zürichstrasse and turn left after you see The Crown of Lucerne restaurant. When you get to little lane the Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden) is to your right.

The Glacier Garden serves as a premier destination for those eager to delve into the intricacies of ice age glaciers. Visitors are guided through the museum and its gardens, where they can engage with the Rock Adventure Trail—an immersive experience allowing them to traverse through the rock formations, witnessing their formation during the Ice Age.

Housed within a traditional Swiss dwelling, the museum boasts an 18th-century mountain relief map, renowned as the world’s oldest of its kind. An interactive relief map of Switzerland also enriches the experience. Following the museum exploration, visitors can delight in the Mirror Maze. Crafted from 90 mirrors, this 19th-century labyrinth offers a delightful and captivating diversion.

An Observation Tower offers sweeping panoramas of Lucerne, allowing visitors to relish in the stunning vistas. Additionally, the park features ideal spots for relaxation or indulging in an outdoor picnic.

The Glacier Garden welcomes guests every day, from 10 am to 6 pm during the summer months, and from 10 am to 5 pm in the winter season.

Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument)

The Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden) is right next door to the Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument).

The Lion Monument, also known as the Lion of Lucerne, stands as a rock relief in Lucerne, erected in 1820 to honour the memory of the Swiss Guards who tragically lost their lives in 1792 during the French Revolution’s tumultuous events. This monument holds a place among Switzerland’s most renowned landmarks, drawing approximately 1.4 million tourists each year.

Throughout the early 17th century, a contingent of Swiss Guards had been a part of the Royal Army of France. The tragedy unfolded on August 10th, 1792, when revolutionaries stormed the Tuileries Palace. Amid the chaos, conflict erupted spontaneously after the royal family had been escorted from the palace to find refuge with the Legislative Assembly. In the ensuing struggle, the Swiss Guards, hampered by dwindling ammunition and outnumbered by the revolutionaries, were ultimately overpowered.

Approximately 760 of these valiant Swiss Guards who defended the Tuileries met their demise during the fighting or suffered massacres after surrendering. An estimated two hundred more died in captivity due to their injuries or fell victim to the September Massacres that followed.

Carved into the rock face, the monument spans an impressive ten meters in length and six meters in height. It stands as a tribute to “the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss.” The portrayal of a dying lion impaled by a spear, shielding a crest adorned with the emblem of the French monarchy, is accompanied by another shield bearing the coat of arms of Switzerland.

Mark Twain aptly described the sculpture of the wounded lion as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.”

Bourbaki Panorama

As you come out of the entrance of the Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument) park turn to your left and you can see the Bourbaki Panorama.

The Bourbaki Panorama stands as a colossal panoramic painting that serves as a tribute to the internment of around 87,000 French Bourbaki soldiers, who sought refuge in Switzerland after traversing from Prussia during the severe winter of 1871. Edouard Castres, the artist behind this creation, had first-hand experience of this event, having witnessed the horrors of war as a Red Cross worker.

This event transpired within the context of the Franco-Prussian War. General Charles Bourbaki’s French troops sought sanctuary in Switzerland, beset by starvation and disease. The Swiss military extended their assistance by providing shelter during the harsh winter months.

Spanning an immense canvas measuring 112 by 10 meters, the Bourbaki Panorama is often credited as an inspiration for the concept of 360-degree filming and virtual reality, owing to its expansive dimensions and shape. Visitors are welcome to explore this significant artwork at the museum throughout the week.

Visiting Bourbaki Panorama:  Opening at 10 am year-round, the museum’s closing hours are 5 pm from November to March, and 6 pm from April to October.

Pro tip: The Bourbaki Panorama comprises two levels: the first featuring a video/slide presentation alongside several artefacts, while the upper level showcases a captivating 3D presentation with life-sized figures positioned before the actual painting. It’s advisable to acquaint oneself with the narrative to fully grasp the depicted situation.

Hofkirche St. Leodegar

Walk behind the Bourbaki Panorama along Weystrasse. When you get to the juction you shoudl be able to see the twin spires of the Hofkirche head towards them along St. Leodegarstrasse.

On your right is the Rothenburgerhaus, dating back to around 1500, is probably the most ancient wooden house in a Swiss town. While most wooden houses in Swiss towns fell prey to fires and were replaced by stone buildings, Rothenburger house was built at a privileged site near Hof Church, separated well from downtown Lucerne. Famous local chronicler Diebold Schilling lived, wrote and illustrated his chronicle here.

The Church of St. Leodegar, a Roman Catholic church from the 17th century, was finished in 1639. However, the church’s history dates back to the 8th century.

Previously, an ancient church named Monastarium Luciaria stood where the Church of St. Leodegar is now situated. Constructed around 735 or 736 AE, it enjoyed many years of patronage. Regrettably, this building was consumed by fire in 1633, leaving only two Romanesque towers intact.

The Church of St. Leodegar is often viewed as the premier example of Renaissance architecture in a church in Switzerland. It’s also renowned for its organ, crafted in 1640. When first built, this organ boasted the tallest and heaviest pipe globally. Subsequent extensions were made in 1862 and again in the 1970s, leading to its current size of 7,374 pipes and 111 registers.

Those keen on exploring the Church of St. Leodegar can do so on weekdays between 8 am to noon and 2 pm to 5 pm.

From St. Leodegarstrasse walk down the cobbled path and turn left to get to the lake. Walk with the lake on your left, cross the bridge until you are back where your started.

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1 Day in Lucerne – A Self-Guided Walking Tour Itinerary

A one-day visit to Lucerne is perfect to explore the sites and medieval architecture of this central Switzerland city beside beautiful Lake Lucerne.  The nearby snow-capped mountains are great day trips from Lucerne.  

Table of Contents

One Day in Lucerne Itinerary

This itinerary makes a great 1-day visit to Lucerne.

• Enjoy a self-guided Lucerne Walking Tour of both New and Old Town.
• Cross the famous Chapel Bridge .
• Explore the towers of the Musegg Wall ; OR Visit one of Lucerne’s museums .
• Enjoy a dinner cruise on Lake Lucerne .

On a 2 nd day in Lucerne, visit anything missed on the first day OR take a day trip to the local peaks near Lucerne.

Lucerne Map – The Best Things To See in Lucerne

Lucerne Walking Tour

The best way to see the architecture of Lucerne’s colourful Altstadt (old town) is on foot.  This 2-kilometre walking route travels through both Neustadt (new town) and Altstadt.  It takes about an hour to walk, depending on the time spent at each spot.

Begin at the Bahnhofplatz , the huge transit hub with a parking garage beneath.  The Zentralstrasse, Lucerne’s main train station, is to the south and the main dock for Lake Lucerne cruises is to the north.  For help with tourist passes to Lucerne attractions or tourist information, visit the Lucerne Tourist Information centre in the train station.  There is a large shopping mall beneath the station and a sizable food court for grab-and-go food.

The original train station was destroyed by fire in early 1971.  Its grand main entrance was saved and stands in the middle of the Bahnhofplatz, like a gateway to the city.

To the east of the plaza is a huge building, one of the few modern-looking buildings in this part of the city.

Lucerne Culture and Convention Centre

Opened in 2000, the Kultur und Kongresszentrum Lucerne (or KKL Lucerne) has three parts: an 1840-seat concert hall, multi-function Lucerne Hall and the convention centre.  There are a number of restaurants and cafes which are convenient to the dock on the lake.

The striking, glass-and-steel building’s design has won international praise for the concert hall’s amazing acoustics.  Its unique ceiling, special sound-absorbing doorways and an inaudible ventilation system create complete silence enriching performance sound.

The architect designed the building to be in the middle of the lake but the city didn’t agree.  To achieve the appearance of being surrounded by water, lake water flows in channels through the middle of the building.

The Lucerne Arts Museum is in the building’s convention centre.

Detour: Visit Inseli Park, just to the south of the KKL. This is a local summer hangout.  Enjoy the lakeside grassy area or play ping pong at outdoor tables.  Locals and tourists alike frequent two summer patio bars.

Walk back to the Bahnhofplatz and continue west along the river to the 14 th -century Kapellbrücke , one of Lucerne’s most recognized landmarks.

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

The winding, wooden, covered bridge is over 200 metres long. It was built across the Reuss River as part of the city’s defensive system. Partway along the bridge, the 8-sided, stone Water Tower is original and older than the bridge. Over the centuries, the tower was used as the city treasury, dungeon prison and archive.

A 1993 fire began in a boat moored to the bridge.  The fire spread to the bridge destroying a large portion of it.  Both ends of the bridge survived as did the stone tower.  The tower’s gabbled roof was destroyed.

Walk across a portion of the bridge to see the triangular roof panels.  The original panels were painted in the 17 th -century, recording the development of Lucerne and Switzerland up to that point.  The 1993 fire burned 81 of the 111 panels.  The panels found in the centre are originals which were in storage during the fire.

The paintings were sponsored by wealthy families. To recognize their charity, the family coats of arms were added to the paintings.

The Rosengart Collection is in the gallery at the corner of Pilatusstrasse and Theaterstrasse.  This is a must-do for Picasso fans.  Either detour to the gallery, walking 3 blocks south along Theatrestrasse, or visit later in the day.

Follow the river west to the Jesuitenkirche.

Jesuit Church

The large, 17 th -century church was the first Baroque church in Switzerland.  Its two, onion-domed towers were added in 1893.  It is dedicated to Francis Xavier, co-founder of the Jesuit order.  While the exterior is Baroque, the interior was redone in the mid-18 th century in Rococo style.  The interior is beautiful.  The ceiling murals celebrate Xavier’s life and afterlife.  The church’s large organ is used by Lucerne’s music school.  Enjoy the music if they happen to be practising.

Walk west on Bahnhofstrasse to the next intersection.  To the left, at the end of the street is the Franziskanerkirche.

Franciscan Church

The beautiful, 13 th -century, Gothic-style church has a large pipe organ and stunning paintings.  Over the centuries the interior has undergone extensive renovation but has kept its 17 th -century choir stalls and the wooden pulpit.

Return to Bahnhofstrasse and continue west.  Turn right onto Pfistergasse.  Walk to almost the next major cross street.  Turn right and walk through an arched entrance along a covered walkway. This leads to the next covered bridge.

The Historisches Museum and the Natur-Museum Luzern are on either side of the walkway, on the south side of the river.

Spreuer Bridge

This 15 th -century, covered, pedestrian bridge is original.  It is smaller Chapel Bridge and has avoided fire for more than 6 centuries.  Its roof panels are a series of paintings, called Dance of Death by Kaspar Meglinger, created to remind the townspeople, who crossed the bridge daily, that death cannot be escaped regardless of social class.

The far end of the bridge was designed for wagons delivering supplies to three mills nearby.  Since the middle ages, there have been mills in this area harnessing the power of the river.  A fire in 1875 destroyed all but one.  It was removed in 1890 making way for the city’s first hydroelectric power plant.  Those turbines generated power for 90 years.  They were replaced by the current power plant in 1996.

Look toward the lake.  It receives its water from snow melt.  A movable dam was designed in the mid-19 th century to control lake levels and protect lakeside towns from flooding.  In the spring, the dam is opened by removing wooden pickets, allowing the river to flow.  As the lake’s water level drops, the wooden pickets are put back in place extending the dam across the river and slowing the flow.  We visited in late May and the dam was partway across the river channel.  By winter, the dam is entirely in place, cutting the flow to almost nothing across the main river channel.  This keeps the lake level high enough for some boats.

From the bridge, walk to the right into the pedestrian square called the Muhlenplatz . This is the start of the old town . At the top of the square, turn right and walk a block to Weinmarktgasse.

Walk a block to the pretty city square, the Weinmarkt .  This was a marketplace for wine.  The 15 th -century fountain has carvings of soldiers. They were to remind citizens that the town was tough and strong.  Enjoy the beautiful paintings on building fronts in the square.

Continue up the street to the Hirschenplatz . This square got its name from the Hirschen Hotel which is long gone. Its sign still hangs in the square.

Turn right, walk a block then turn left onto Kornmarkt.  Walk to the square outside the Rathaus Stradt beside the Town Hall clock.

Lucern Old Town Hall (Rathaus Stadt)

The first town council meeting was held in this late Renaissance-style town hall in 1606. The building continues to be used for council meetings.

Walk Furrengass to St. Peter’s Chapel .  The bridge was called Kapellbrücke due to its proximity to church.

The Fritschibrunnen is in the plaza to the north of the church.  Locals gather at this fountain early in the morning on the first Thursday seven weeks before Easter to start the Fasnacht festival.  This is Lucerne’s annual Mardi Gras and one of their biggest parties of the year.  There are parades, dancing, singing and drinking through the entire seven-day festival.  Locals often take time off and visitors are encouraged to join in.

This is the end of the town walking tour.  There are several options for the rest of the day.

• Return to the Bahnhofplatz. Enjoy lunch along the lakeshore or on a Lake Lucerne Cruise , or
• Explore one of the great Lucerne museums , or
• Continue walking and explore several more Lucerne attractions.

Self-Walking Tour of Lowenplatz and the City Walls

Lucerne’s oldest tourist attractions, from the early 17 th -century, are in Lowenplatz to the northeast of Old Town and the old city walls.

Begin from Bahnhofplatz or continue from St. Peter’s Chapel at the end of the Lucerne Walking Tour.  

From Bahnhofplatz, walk north across the Seebrucke, the bridge over the mouth of the Reuss River.  From St. Peter’s Chapel, walk east along the river to Lake Lucerne.

Walk the sidewalk north and east following the lakeshore.  The main street, Löwenstrasse/Route 4, turns left.  Follow it, turning immediately right onto St. Leodegarstrasse.  Walk to the church with the beautiful bell towers.

Hofkirche St. Leodegar

The beautiful, 17 th -century late-Renaissance church has twin, Gothic, bell towers. The church was part of a monastery founded in 750.  A 1633 fire destroyed all but the bell towers.  Inside, see the beautiful, white stonework and the vaulted ceiling.  The 17 th -century organ is one of Switzerland’s finest.

Walk back out to the main street, Löwenstrasse, and walk north about 4 blocks to the Lowenplatz and the Bourbaki Panorama.

Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne

The 10-metre-tall Bourbaki Panorama was painted in 1881 by Edouard Castres.  It portrays, in a very lifelike, 360-degree view, the surrender of French troops to the neutral Swiss.  At the end of the Franco-Prussian War in 1871, the French troops refused to surrender to the winning Germans. 

The panorama was touched up in the year 2000.  Many panoramic theatres were built in the 19 th century in Europe and the United States. 

Walk to one of Lucerne’s more well-known tourist attractions, the Lowendenkmal, about a block north, on Denkmalstasse.

Lion Monument

The sculpture of a dying lion was carved into the stone, cliff-face in the 1820s.  It is 10 metres long and 6 metres tall.  It memorializes the Swiss soldiers who died defending King Louis 16th in the 1792 Paris attack during the French Revolution. This beautiful park was a sandstone quarry when the lion was carved.

Adjoining the park to the north is the Gletschergarten.

Glacier Garden of Lucerne

Sixteen potholes, called kettles, were revealed when glaciers melted in the area 20,000 years ago.  In 1873, the Amrein family built the Glacier Garden around the kettles.  Enjoy walking the paths through the rocks and plants.

The Amreins collected all manner of items which are displayed in the museum ’s eclectic collection.  A mirror maze recreating Granada Spain’s Alhambra was created for the 1896 Geneva National Exhibition. It was moved to the garden in 1899.

Walk back down Denkmalstrasse to Lowenplatz.  From the square, continue 2 blocks south to Hofstrasse.  Turn right onto Museggstrasse.  This street runs parallel to the watchtowers and old walls of the city constructed around 1400.  Veer right onto Schirmertorweg and climb up to the Museggmauer.

Musegg Wall Lucerne

Walk the path on top of the old city ramparts, for stunning views of the city and Lake Lucerne.  There are 9 stone towers, some open to the public.  The wall and the towers (including the Schirmerturm, Männliturm, Wachtturm, Zytturm) date back to late 14th century.

Lucerne Museums

These are several of Lucerne’s interesting museums.

Sammlung Rosengart

The Rosengart Collection is the personal art collection of Siegfried and Angela Rosengart.  The father and daughter were art dealers and personal friends of Pablo Picasso and many other artists. 

The collection includes works by major 19 th and 20 th -century artists. See works by Paul Cezanne, Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, Paul Klee and a large number by Picasso .  In addition to these works, see photographs by American David Douglas Duncan.  He documented the last 17 years of Picasso’s life with his family. For lovers of Picasso, this is a must-see collection. 

Swiss Museum of Transport

The Verkehrshaus , a favourite with young and old, is Switzerland’s most popular museum.  The transportation museum has interactive exhibits and shows.  The complex is massive and covers most modes of transport, everything from stagecoaches to space capsules.  Walk the 1:20000 scale map of Switzerland.  It’s easy to spend an entire day at this museum.

The Transport Museum shares the site with three other attractions: the Swiss Chocolate Adventure, a planetarium and the Filmtheatre.  Each is an additional cost.

The museum is 10 minutes from the city centre by car, bus or boat to the Verkehrshaus-Lido stop.  Walk to the museum along the lake in about 30 minutes.

Depot History Museum

Explore the history of Lucerne and the region in one of Lucerne’s oldest surviving buildings dating from the 16 th century.  The collection of artifacts is huge.  Shelves have barcodes to scan for the history of the artifact.

Lucerne Natural History Museum

The kids will enjoy this interactive natural history museum.  Exhibits include all the regional flora and fauna.

Lucerne Arts Museum

The Kunstmuseum Luzern presents Swiss art from the Renaissance to the present, focusing on 19 th -century works.  It attracts impressive temporary exhibits to enhance its permanent collection.

Cruise on Lake Lucerne

Enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne for an afternoon or an evening, seeing beautiful scenery and lakeside towns.  Many cruises offer culinary delights to add to the experience.  Take a cruise on a paddle steamer from the beginning of the 20 th century or one of the many other options. 

There are three charter companies licensed to operate on Lake Lucerne.  For more information visit their websites ( Charles Bucher , St. Niklausen Schiffsgesellschaft (SNG) , and Lake Lucerne Navigation Company ).  Often tickets can be purchased at the dock beside Bahnhofplatz.

Lake Lucerne is an irregular-shaped lake with sharp bends and 4 “arms”.  At its maximum, it is over 200 metres deep but the average depth is about 100 metres.  It is possible to circle the lake by both train and road.  For hundreds of years, communities on the lake could only be reached by water. The lake does not freeze allowing lake transportation companies to operate year-round.

Day Trips from Lucerne

Several central Switzerland mountain peaks are perfect day trips from Lucerne.

Almost due east of Lucerne across the lake, Mount Rigi is a long ridge, 1795 metres high.  On a clear day, this is a great vantage point to see Central Switzerland, Germany and France.  At the summit, Rigi Kulm, there is an information office and a snack shop.  The Rigi Kulm Hotel serves full meals.  There are more than 60 miles of hiking trails for all levels.  For more information, check the Mount Rigi website .

To get to the Rigi Kulm summit, enjoy a scenic boat ride from Lucerne to either Weggis or Vitznau at the base of the mountain.  From the Weggis dock, walk 15 minutes up to the cable car station, the Luftseilbahn, and ride the cable car to Rigi Kaltbad.  Catch the cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm.  From Vitznau, catch the cogwheel train and ride all the way to Rigi Kulm. 

For maximum enjoyment, travel to Vitznau on the boat, take the cogwheel train to the summit and return via cable car to Weggis catching the boat back to Lucerne. Allow at least 6 hours for the trip to and from Lucerne (excluding time at the summit).

Mount Pilatus

At the top of the almost 2130-metre summit, southwest of Lucerne, see the 19 th -century hotel and stunning views into the valley below.  The visitor centre has information, souvenirs and several restaurants.  There are hiking trails at the top.  In the winter, sledging through the snowy woodlands is an option. Detailed information is available at the Mount Pilatus website .

From Lucerne travel to either:

• Kriens by bus.   Ride a gondola to Frakmuntegg at 4600 feet and then cable car to the summit station, Pilatus Klum.  The energetic can hike from Frakmuntegg up a steep, partially roped 2.8 kilometre scramble to the summit; or
• Alpnachstad by ferry or train.  Board one of the steepest cogwheel trains in Switzerland (48% gradient in places) and ascend through 4 tunnels up the mountain’s east side to Pilatus Klum.

For maximum enjoyment, travel one way up and the other way down.  Allow at least 4 hours for the trip to and from Lucerne (excluding time at the summit).

Mount Titlis

This is the highest mountain in Central Switzerland, over 3,000 metres high.  At the top, explore the ice cave lit by neon lights.  From the top, the view is filled with glacier-topped peaks.  The Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau are all visible. Walk the Cliff Walk , a 100-metre-long, cable-supported walkway.  It was Europe’s highest suspension bridge when it opened in 2012.  Hikers can climb to the summit at 3240 metres (sturdy shoes are needed).  The Glacier Park has snow tubes, scooters and sledges all year long.

For more information check the Mount Titlis website .

From Lucerne, either drive or ride the Engelberg Express Train to Engelberg.  Take the gondola to Trubsee (staying on at the Gerschnialp stop).  Ride another gondola to Stand.  At Stand, board the revolving Rotair , the world’s first revolving cable car, and ride over the Titlis Glacier to the summit.

Allow at least 3 hours for the trip to and from Lucerne (excluding time at the summit).

While in Engelberg visit the 12 th -century, Benedictine monastery.  It was rebuilt after a fire in 1729.  The grounds are open to the public daily and include a dairy.

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Valerie Vanr

Valerie is the Co-founder of AvrexTravel.com. Val enjoys travel photography and writing informative City Walking tours.

Tourist Map Lucerne

The beauty of a city by its lake can only be seen on postcards and paintings. Tourist Map Lucerne gives you the guide to experience in person that landscape we described, right in the center of Switzerland. Perhaps a cruise on the lake will give you the idea to contemplate that other side of this beautiful city reflected in the mirror and with the sky closer to it. Besides, the historical but modern Swiss city makes this experience more realistic. In this tour we will give you a closer look at the city, so that you can get an idea of how charming and attractive it is. Visit its watch and souvenir shops, go on excursions in the surrounding areas, or meet hundreds of tourists to share experiences and maybe have a few coffees together in the middle of this beautiful city.

• 1 Tourist Map Lucerne
• 2 Tourist Guide Lucerne
• 3 Map of Hotels in Lucerne

Under a background decorated by the Alps and with the Lake of the Four Cantons at its feet is this city. The figure of this city is made familiar by its famous Kapellbrücke bridge that crosses the Reuss River, representing one of the most representative icons in tourism in Lucerne. Its size makes it a curious city, with just over 37 square kilometers 80 thousand people of different nationalities come to life giving the multinational character to this small but harmonious space. Its oceanic climate has high rainfall, especially in the months of June for an average of 14 days of the season. Famous for its carnivals, the second most impressive in Switzerland, and along with its various cultural festivals, tourism has been positioned alongside the promotion of traditional places to visit.

There are many tourist sites, you will have museums, historical and artistic, as well as live the history through its monuments and buildings of medieval court. The entertainment for the most active is expanded in sports and hiking activities both in its river, lake and mountains, the latter with a wide range and places to admire and take beautiful pictures by the natural landscapes of magazine that has the city and its surroundings. The tourist office has the information and street maps to give you within Lucerne tourist places to choose and plan your tour of the historic center or to await their cultural offerings in its main auditoriums and squares. Here the traditional and the avant-garde get along very well under the lively atmosphere of its inhabitants in times of festivities.

Tourist Guide Lucerne

This Lucerne Tourist Guide will help you locate the sites of interest within its streets and routes outside the city. The first thing to bear in mind when you arrive is that this city has a very good land communication. It is not for less since it is a whole tourist city, gateway to the heart of the country. Also the access can be done by its lake, since its name makes honor to the relation that has with the borders of 4 Swiss cantons. Forget about the tourist bus if you are in a nearby city or if you are planning to come here, as you can get there by train. It’s worth it for the views along the way. Keep in mind that within Lucerne if it is worth the option of buses, and sure you will have an efficient service.

Lake of the Four Cantons

Be aware of the beauty that emanates from this beautiful lake with its beautiful views. One of the most beautiful attractions in Europe and the world. There are a number of activities to choose from, from excursions, walks on elegant boats in the best 19th century style, to water activities. In any form of enjoyment, it does not cease to captivate the view that distracts anyone. There are more than 140 square kilometres of things to admire and enjoy. There is a wide range of hiking on its edges, through themed paths that take the viewer back in time to the history of the country, even to admire nature on a warm but sunny day. The origin of its name is due to the confluence of 4 main territorial divisions of Switzerland that meet here. In past centuries this lake was an important water communication and raw material transport area.

Spreuer Bridge

In Spanish, El Puente de la Danza de la Muerte. It was built in the mid-15th century and served as a crossing point in the city across the river Reuss. It was part of the fortified complex of Lucerne. As you can see, it has a roof throughout, and inside there are different illustrations of skeletons and images that allegorize the cycle of life and death. All this gives the impression of the inevitability of death and the indispensability of our lives. This impression is caused by the artistic purpose of Kaspar Meglinger, who was the author of these paintings for the first half of the 15th century. The idea is to engrave in the consciousness of visitors that we will all die, regardless of our status or condition. Its beauty and medieval style is still preserved in the pointed styles of roofs and towers.

Swiss Museum of Transport

This museum offers, in an interactive and modern way, the possibility to its users to know everything about the evolution of the means of transport that have marked the progress of the country. There are several themes depending on the type of transport, whether it is rail, water, land or air. It has more than 3,000 pieces on display, audiovisual resources and simulators distributed in 20 thousand square meters. This museum has a lot of material to show, and it is thought for all ages, where it transports the spectator in a temporary vision of the road progress of the country. Its exhibitions range from the construction of vehicles, investigating the needs of users, as well as the roads and their composition to understand where we come from and where we are going in the optimal use of its materials. In the aquatic area, boats have been presented since prehistoric times.

KKL Convention and Concert Centre

It’s a place worth being. It is a place where you can experience the most up to date cultural and musical art in Europe. Its building corresponds to the work of Jean Nouvel, who places it on the edge of Lake of the Four Cantons. This architectural wonder impresses as much as the events that take place there. Its acoustics provide excellent resonance, which allows it to adapt the sounds of any trend that dares to show off. It is a reference in avant-garde architecture. This experience during the summer concerts generates a sound atmosphere together with colours during the night. Together with the stage presentations they will leave you wanting to visit again. It can be easily accessed from the historic centre, so from a distance the visual experience is enchanting due to the contrast of the Medieval Lucerne with this magnificent and modern building.

Weinmarkt Square

This square is located in the heart of the historic centre of Lucerne. Its fountain is a replica of the one housed in the city’s museum, dating from the 15th century. Its location marks the meeting point of 15th and 16th century urban architecture on either side. All its surrounding buildings and respective facades are in a perfect state of preservation. In some of these houses, guilds from different disciplines of the time were living. Simply the beauty represented in the frescoes and beautiful exteriors that surround it, makes it the main square of the city and one of the most attractive places in the central area. Its name, translated, refers to the Wine Square. It is home to Lucerne’s oldest pharmacy, which dates back to 1530.

Jesuitenkirche

It is the city’s Jesuit Church and the most relevant temple. From a walk on the lake or near the river Reuss you can see this beautiful church, and even access through the historic center. The construction of this church dates back to almost a century after the arrival of the first Jesuits to the city, in 1574. Its interior glimpses by the frescoes and artistic details that are reflected in the white background of its vaults. Due to its acoustics, the site is suitable for enjoying good concerts that take place periodically. The original habit of the patron of Switzerland, Brother Klaus, is found in the chapel of this church.

Hans Erni Museum

This museum houses pictorial works by the artist Hans Erni. His work is based on the tracing of contours based on mathematics. It generates a symmetrical yet surrealistic impression. The human body, as the artist argues, is based on mathematical proportion, so it is a central theme for his recreations. The most important representations can be found in the museum auditorium, such as the Phanta Rhei. This work represented in a large mural, the history of the entire existence of modern man is simplified. The main base is intertwined with the great men who contributed to science throughout history. The subject matter ranges from the allegory of Prometheus to the uncertainty caused by the freedom to possess the knowledge acquired. This in-depth art is found for free interpretation, stimulating the intellect in this tourist destination called Lucerne.

Lion of Lucerne Monument

This sculpture is a rock carving naturally embedded in a sandstone quarry. It is one of the most popular attractions of the city. Looking at the image generates a feeling of grief due to the features that denote a huge lion that lies on shields and weapons as a deathbed. This artistic representation was designed to commemorate the fallen Swiss soldiers during the French Revolution. A group of guards ready to defend the royal family with their lives contained an angry mob at the Tuileries Palace in 1792. Thirty years after the event, it was decided to build this monument in honour of those who gave their lives. The sculpture is 10 meters long and under it lies a beautiful lake. Make your guided tour a pleasant one by choosing early hours.

Mount Pilatus

This mountain has an elevation above sea level of just over 2,000 meters. To reach this destination, it is necessary to use the cog railway. On the way you will enjoy forests and meadows. However, when you start to enter the mountainous area you will realize that you are riding the steepest train in the world. You can also use the cable car, with previous transfer by bus from the station in Lucerne. After 20 minutes of crossing the mountain the valuation of the mountain is maximized and the palpitation of the emotion increases with the views that it offers, through the cable car. It’s worth it when you get to see the most brutal views that this high mountain has to offer. Especially on clear days when we recommend a visit to this natural monument.

Map of Hotels in Lucerne

This city has not only tourist attractions with excellent views, but also places to stay with this quality. I think you can’t escape from the greatest asset of local tourism, its intra- and extra-urban landscapes. Lucerne’s Hotel Map shows you all the hotel variety, including those that allow you this experience, so that you can continue in that medieval or natural story that you enjoy so much during your tour. The Hotel Schweizerhof is famous for having been a place of accommodation for great intellectuals throughout history. Its colorful windows make it stand out on the shores of the lake and in the historical center, so you won’t have a hard time finding it. It is definitely our recommendation. It has beautiful rooms for the whole family, a bar, free WiFi, and pets are allowed. Plus you have many places of interest nearby, including the cable car station.

Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips

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Best Road Trip in Switzerland from Zurich

Our ultimate Switzerland road trip takes you along a breathtakingly scenic route, exploring beautiful cities, incredible natural scenery, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. This Switzerland itinerary is the perfect adventure for those who love to explore.

From discovering charming lakeside towns and the dramatic Swiss Alps to tackling some of Switzerland’s most famous driving roads, you can also take time to stop and visit local wineries, discover adrenaline sports, and sample delicious Swiss cuisine on this road trip through Switzerland.

In this Switzerland road trip planner, we share travel tips, the best route between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Swiss itinerary.

Where is Switzerland?

Switzerland is a small mountainous country located in central Europe, most famous for the Dufourspitze, the second-highest mountain in the Alps, deliciously creamy Swizz chocolate, secretive Swiss banks, and Heidi, Switzerland’s most well-known literary character.

This landlocked country is home to 451 mountains and is about the size of New Jersey and is sandwiched between France and Italy , and also bordered by Austria , Germany , and Liechtenstein, which lend a cosmopolitan culture and outlook to the country.

Switzerland is not a member of the European Union or European Economic Area but it is part of the Schengen Area, meaning any time spent touring Switzerland by car counts toward your 90 in 180 days allowance.

Getting to Switzerland

Whether you’re taking a road trip to Switzerland in a car, motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular European country.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Zurich Airport to start your Switzerland road trip. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Switzerland? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Switzerland. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Traveling in Switzerland by Car

The Swiss make it easy to see their breathtakingly beautiful country, with great roads and a well-managed and maintained network of trains, boats, and cable cars. It’s surprisingly easy to see the mountains and gain real elevation without being a super-fit hiker – everywhere you go, there are mechanical means to help you enjoy the peaks.

Although this is a Swiss Alps road trip guide, you will definitely be using trains, cable cars, and boats to see some of the top sights and attractions. If you prefer to arrange your own trips, a virtual Swiss Travel Pass  offers unlimited travel on all Swiss trains, buses, and boats and discounted or free admission to many Swiss attractions including museums and mountains.

An alternative is the  Swiss Half Fare Card  which gets you 50% discounted tickets on standard fares for trains, buses, boats, and cable cars in Switzerland, for one month. This is not a virtual card, however, and you’re still required to physically purchase your tickets.

RELATED POST: Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Switzerland.

Road Trip Switzerland: Best Time to Go

March to may.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Switzerland, with temperatures warming up across the country. Blooming wildflowers, vibrant greenery in the mountains and cows heading out to pasture mean spring is a fantastic time to experience Switzerland by car. You’ll find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

In summer, Switzerland enjoys beautiful weather and the prospect of water sports, mountain hiking, and dining al fresco. This is when locals and visitors alike head to the lake shores and mountains, meaning heavier crowds and more traffic.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for a Swiss road trip . The grapes and crops are being harvested, food festivals celebrate the bounty of the land, and you might enjoy an Indian summer, with the fall colors of the vines aflame.

December to February

The winter months in Switzerland can be very cold, but most people come to Switzerland during the months of December to March for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. It’s not the best time for a road trip, as the spectacular mountain passes will be closed and roads can be challenging to drive.

RELATED POST: The Best of Switzerland in Summer: 17 Amazing Highlights

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Switzerland. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Switzerland Road Trip Map & Route

We recommend completing a circular route during your road trip around Switzerland, starting and ending in Zurich. Zurich, the global capital of banking and finance, is home to Switzerland’s largest international airport.

Our two week Switzerland road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes, covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views. 

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route. 

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip will begin taking you north. Drive towards Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where we recommend stopping at the famous Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel located in the mountains of Bernese Oberland, the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Switzerland
• The Rough Guide to Switzerland
• DK Eyewitness Switzerland  

Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

Zurich – Bern – Lausanne – Geneva – Montreux – Nendaz – Zermatt – Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen – Grindelwald – Furka Pass – Lucerne – Zurich

• Distance 991km
• Duration 10-14 days
• Drive Time 17 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Flying into Zurich and renting a car is the easiest way to kickstart your Switzerland road trip. Get our one day Zurich itinerary complete with map, recommendations & Zurich travel tips to help plan your trip to this stylish and cultured Swiss city.

Zurich’s old town is full of cobbled streets with cozy bars, traditional Swiss restaurants, and art museums. It is also home to some of Zurich’s famous Romanesque churches. You can indulge in fabulous shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse with its luxury boutiques, visit Lindenhof Hill with its fantastic views of the city, and sample the famous Lindt chocolate.

If you prefer to have your day organized for you, check out this popular and highly rated private tour with a local guide and get to know the beautiful city of Zurich with a professional guide who will show you the city’s hidden gems and also help you experience this popular destination like a real local.

In the evening, head for Seebad Enge , one of Lake Zurich’s swimming pools, which turns into a lively bar at night. Stop here for a cold beer and a homemade grilled snack to start your evening off the right way, before heading to Oepfelchammer . A mainstay of Zurich dining since 1801, Oepfelchammer is the place to go if you want traditional Swiss food made with regional and seasonal produce.

• Where to Stay in Zurich

Upmarket: Marktgasse Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Meininger Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Rhine Falls Side Trip

Just under an hour away from Zurich in Schaffhausen are the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe with a width measuring 150m (492ft) and a height of 23m (75ft). Over 600,000 liters of water per second plunge over the falls in the summer.

There is an elevator to take you up from Laufen Castle to the viewing platforms for a breathtaking view of the falls. A boat ride to the falls basin is also on offer, and well worth the time. Across the river is a huge rope park, so you can glide from tree to tree and admire the falls from every angle.

If you prefer not to drive, there are lots of day trips to the Rhine Falls from Zurich, but we think this highly recommended Rhine Falls day trip from Zurich is the best. Your driver will take you through a scenic landscape of charming villages to visit the Rhine Falls, you’ll cross the river to the Belvedere Trail viewing platform for incredible views, and learn about the medieval history of Stein am Rhein.

Driving from Zurich to Bern is a scenic journey that takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. From Zurich, you will head towards the Swiss Alps, passing through picturesque villages along the way.

Travel Tip:  We would highly recommend taking a detour on your drive from Zurich to Bern to visit the UNESCO Biosphäre Entlebuch . This Swiss national park is a biosphere reserve that encompasses approximately 39,000 hectares and is an incredible expanse of the untouched Swiss landscape. 

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is renowned for its well-preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historic clock tower, the Zytglogge, which is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, and the Bear Pits, or Bärengraben , where bears have been housed since 1513 and have come to symbolize the city.

Bern has a variety of unique experiences to offer and the best way to see the city is with our recommended guided walking tour where you’ll have the opportunity to admire Bern’s fountains, towers, quaint streets, and arcades as you learn about the city’s 800 years of history from a local guide.

• Where to Stay in Bern

Upmarket: Stay KooooK Bern City – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Los Lorentes Hotel Bern City – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

As you leave Bern and head towards Lausanne, you will be surrounded by the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of the country’s mountainous natural beauty. However, as you draw closer to Lausanne, the scenery will change from mountains and rolling hills to the shores of Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Leman, where the city of Lausanne is located.  

Lausanne is home to a number of historic churches, including the Cathedral of Notre Dame, as well as several museums and art galleries, including the Olympic Museum , a must-visit for sports fans.

Lausanne is a foodie’s paradise. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as fondue, raclette, and rosti, while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Geneva. 

Travel Tip: From Lausanne, you can take a day trip to Glacier 3000 , an alpine experience near Les Diablerets. A 15 minute cable car journey will give you 360-degree views of the Swiss mountains. Once at the summit, you will enjoy spectacular views of Lac Leman. The Glacier 3000 Peak Walk, the only bridge in the world connecting two summits, provides daring visitors with panoramic views of the alpine landscape. 

• Where to Stay in Lausanne

Upmarket: Hotel Angleterre & Résidence – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Moxy Lausanne City – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hôtel du Marché – Booking.com | Agoda

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Driving from Lausanne to Geneva takes approximately 45 minutes and takes you along the shores of Lake Geneva, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Geneva is also the place where our Switzerland road trip route crosses with the Grand Tour of Switzerland route, which takes in five alpine passes, twelve UNESCO World Heritage sites, and 22 lakes.

Travel Tips:   There are many mountain peaks along this route. If you love walking, why not consider stretching your legs and exploring the areas surrounding La Dôle, Le Noirmont, or Crêt de la Neige? 

As you approach Geneva, you will be greeted by the city’s modern skyline, punctuated by the iconic Jet d’Eau, a 140-meter-high fountain located in the heart of the city.

Geneva is renowned for its rich history, beautiful parks and gardens, and world-class museums, including the Museum of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent. We would highly recommend a Lake Geneva cruise to enjoy scenic views of the Swiss and French Alps, as well as Geneva’s landmarks, from the waters of Lake Geneva.

• Where to Stay in Geneva

Upmarket: Hôtel Longemalle – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Mon Repos – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Meininger Hotel Genève – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our Europe road trip ideas .

Montreux 

Driving from Geneva to Montreux will take you further along the shores of Lake Geneva and through the picturesque Swiss countryside. The mild climate of Montreux, with a backdrop of the Swiss Alps, makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists

Montreux is home to a number of cultural and historical landmarks, including the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle located on a small island in the lake. The city is also renowned for the Montreaux Jazz Festival , which takes place every summer and attracts music lovers from all over the world, and as the home of Charlie Chaplin and his family at Manoir de Ban in Corsier-sur-Vevey for 25 years.

Travel Tip: The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located a 20-minute drive from Montreux. They feature miles of vineyards along the hillsides of Lake Geneva and are a must-see for wine lovers.

• Where to Stay in Montreux

Upmarket: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: La Rouvenaz – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Bon Port – Booking.com | Agoda

It’s worth making a stop at Nendaz, at the foot of Mount Tracouet. You won’t be surprised to learn that there is a traditional cable car up the mountain, helping you to enjoy the incredible landscape which surrounds you.

If you’re passing Nendaz in summer you may be lucky enough to experience the Swiss Alphorn Festival . This annual festival held in late July celebrates a work of Swiss tradition and history. The alphorn is a longhorn (around 11 feet) made of wood, historically used as a means of communication, and now used in Swiss folk music.

During the festival, alpenhorn blowers from the entire world descend for the official alphorn blowing competition, a trachten parade featuring folk costumes, concerts, folklore events, village balls, and an alphorn concert which involves a band with over 150 alphorn players! This really is a spectacle and very worth seeing.

• Where to Stay in Nendaz

Upmarket: Nendaz 4 Vallées & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Le Cret Haute Nendaz – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Gîte de Planchouet – Booking.com | Agoda

Zermatt 

The drive from Montreux to Zermatt will be one of the longest legs of your trip! However, driving this incredible route will be an unforgettable experience as you further explore the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

As you approach Zermatt, you will be surrounded by towering, mountain peaks offering a glimpse into the heart of the Swiss wilderness. Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts and is renowned for its ski slopes and breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps.

Did you know that Zermatt is car free? You have to leave your car at one of the parking facilities in nearby Täsch. From there, Zermatt is 12 minutes awy by train, or you can grab a taxi direct to your hotel.

Definitely set aside time to hike in the Matterhorn Valley! We recommend the stunning five lakes hike, which passes the unique lakes of the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee, the latter of which is good for swimming. This is a moderately easy walk and you can reach the trailhead by taking the Sunnegga funicular from Zermatt, and then the gondola to Blauherd.

As well as hiking, Zermatt offers a range of other outdoor activities. With over 360km of ski slopes, Zermatt is one of the largest ski areas in the Swiss Alps and offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing options for all levels.

A number of restaurants in Zermatt, such as Restaurant Zum See and The Cambrian , offer mountain views alongside locally sourced ingredients and traditional Swiss dishes. 

Travel Tip: No trip to Zermatt is complete without a trip up the Matterhorn, which is one of the highest summits in the Alps at 4,478 meters above sea level. Take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car or the Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train to the top for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn. 

RELATED POST: Most Beautiful Places In Switzerland That You Must Visit!

• Where to Stay in Zermatt

Upmarket: Hotel Schweizerhof Zermatt – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Le Mirabeau Hotel & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Bahnhof – Booking.com | Agoda

Interlaken 

The drive from Zermatt to Interlaken takes you south through the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps. On route, you will pass the Weisshorngruppe. This mountain range is dominated by the Weisshorn peak, which reaches a height of 4,506 above sea level and provides a spectacular backdrop for your road trip.

There are lots of things to do in Interlaken and you can take in the cultural attractions, such as museums, churches, and traditional Swiss architecture. 

Interlaken is also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, Interlaken offers a range of activities such as tandem paragliding , bungee jumping, and white-water rafting on the nearby Lütschine river .

Bordering Interlaken are Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. You can enjoy a range of activities on the emerald waters of these lakes. Lake Brienz offers jet boat tours and kayaking experiences while Lake Thun is home to the St Beatus Caves; a cave system featuring lit pathways through tunnels and chambers.

Travel Tip: While in Interlaken, take the time to visit the Harder Kulm viewpoint . With an altitude of 1,322 meters, this high vantage point allows visitors to enjoy unrivaled views of Interlaken and Unterseen.

• Where to Stay in Interlaken

Upmarket: Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Chalet Swiss – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Walters Hostel Interlaken – Booking.com | Agoda

Jungfraujoch Side Trip

The Jungfraujoch is a topographical saddle connecting two major 4,000m+ mountains of the Bernese Alps – the Jungfrau and the Mönch. It lies at an elevation of 3,463 meters above sea level and is directly overlooked by the rocky prominence of the Sphinx, and the incredible Sphinx Observatory.

The Jungfraujoch Railway is the highest in Europe and trains leave Kleine Scheidegg railway station regularly throughout the year for the “top of Europe”. Once there, you can experience breathtaking views of the snow-capped Jungfrau-Aletsch region from the Sphinx Observation Deck and the Glacier Plateau, before hitting the snow park for snow tubing, sledding, and zip lining.

In the Ice Palace are intricately detailed ice carvings and sculptures of animals such as bears, penguins, and eagles, and you’ll also be able to learn about the history of the railway here. Just to top off your visit, nearby is Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven!

With over one million visitors a year, it’s best to book your Jungfraujoch tickets well in advance. With our recommended round trip to the top of Europe package , you get your train tickets, plus entry to all the Jungfaujoch experiences except the snow park. These tickets are on a buy now, pay later basis, so you can always cancel at no cost if your plans change.

Lauterbrunnen  

Driving for twenty minutes will take you from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen. Lauterbrunnen is known for its 72 waterfalls, including the famous 300-meter-high Staubbach Falls, and the nearby Trümmelbach Falls, which gush through mountain crevices past viewing platforms.

Hiking, paragliding, rock climbing, and canyoning are all popular ways to experience what Lauterbrunnen has to offer. For a truly unique experience, consider viewing the landscape and the Bernese Alps from a hot air balloon.

Travel Tip: Lauterbrunnen and Mürren served as filming locations for the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service in 1969. From Stechelberg, get the Schilthorn cable cars to Bond World and the Birg Station at 2,970 meters. Once there, test your nerves on the Skyline Walk overlooking a vertical wall and tackle the Thrill Walk along a 200-meter cliff pathway, before walking the remaining distance to the iconic 007 Piz Gloria restaurant, which revolves to reveal a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

• Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen

Upmarket: Hotel Silberhorn – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Valley Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Grindelwald 

The drive from Lauterbrunnen to Grindelwald takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on road conditions, passing traditional Swiss mountain chalets. These include Sulwald Stübli , a restaurant with mountain views that we highly suggest grabbing lunch in. 

Grindelwald is surrounded by towering peaks including the famous Eiger mountain. The challenging hike along the Eiger Trail offers breathtaking views of this iconic mountain peak.

For a much easier walk, head to the First Cliff Walk at the summit of the First mountain at 2200m above sea level, a quick ride from the village on the Grindelwald Firstbahn cable car. The walk itself is along a metal walkway and a single-rope hanging bridge constructed along a cliff. At the end of the walkway, there is a spectacular observation platform that stretches out 45 meters above the mountains below.

We suggest experiencing the Grindelwald-Männlichen Cableway while in Grindelwald. This cable car ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the famous peaks of the Eiger and Wetterhorn.

Travel Tip:  For an out-of-this-world experience, visit Grindelwald Glacier Canyon , an underground labyrinth carved out by the 250 million-year-old Grindelwald Glacier.

• Where to Stay in Grindelwald

Upmarket: Bergwelt Grindelwald Alpine Resort – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Sunstar Hotel & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Grindelwald Youth Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Furka Pass 

To reach the Furka Pass, just over an hour from Grindelwald, you’ll first have to cross the Grimsel Pass, meaning you’ll bag two of Switzerland’s best driving roads in a day. These high-altitude mountain passes in the Swiss Alps are famous for their incredible scenic drives. 

Remember, you will need to time your travel dates correctly to experience this world-renowned drive! The Grimsel and Furka Pass are only open between June and October due to travel conditions and snow on the roads, and will appear closed on our interactive map if you’re planning your route outside of the summer season.

When the road is closed you can transport your rental car by train in the Furka Base Tunnel , connecting Realp and Oberwald.

Travel Tip: The Furka Pass is located in a protected natural area, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, the road up the Furka Pass is steep, narrow, and winding, so it’s important to drive with caution, especially if you’re not used to mountain driving.

Lugano Side Trip

This is more of an optional extra than a side trip! On the other side of the Furka Pass, you have the option to head north on Route 2 to Lucerne, or south to Lugano, a good hour’s drive away. You’ll want a few days spare for this Lugano side trip!

Lugano is in an Italian-speaking region and has a distinctive Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures which are reflected in its architecture and cuisine. The city stands on the shore of beautiful Lake Lugano, surrounded by mountains, including Monte San Salvatore, and is full of lively squares, lakeside walks, fun shopping streets, and colorful parks.

To tick another country off your list, hop on a boat from the downtown pier of Lugano Centrale to either Porlezza or Ponte Tresa, both of which are in Italy.

The charming city of Lucerne is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and lakes, showcasing the beauty of the Swiss countryside. A trip to Lucerne is incomplete without exploring Lake Lucerne. We would recommend experiencing the lake on a boat tour, by kayaking or paddleboarding.

While in Lucerne, we would recommend taking a Lucerne city tour to see the Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and Lucerne’s historic old town. While visiting this city, you can also take a brilliant Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus trip , known as the golden round trip, which takes you on a boat, cogwheel railway, aerial cableway, and finally a gondola offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the city itself.

Driving from Lucerne to Zurich takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and is the final travel day on your ultimate Switzerland road trip. 

• Where to Stay in Lucerne

Upmarket: Grand Hotel National Luzern – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Anstatthotel Horw – Booking.com | Agoda

Mount Titlis Side Trip

A half-hour scenic drive from Lucerne to Engelberg will take you to an unmissable Swiss experience. The Titlis Glacier, found atop Mount Titlis is reached on the Rotair revolving cable car from Engelberg – yep, a rotating cable car!

You can also experience an unforgettable adventure on the Ice Flyer chairlift, step inside a glacier cave and cross the Titlis cliff walk bridge suspended high over the Swiss Alps.

If you prefer not to drive, this highly rated half day tour from Lucerne will transport you to Engelberg and include all the experiences Mount Titlis has to offer.

A road trip through Switzerland is filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. From the rolling hills and pristine lakes surrounding Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne, to the stunning alpine landscapes of Zermatt, Interlaken, and Grindelwald, Switzerland offers a wealth of scenic vistas and outdoor activities.

Along the way, you can explore charming old towns, visit UNESCO world heritage sites, sample delicious Swiss cuisine, and relax in some of Europe’s most beautiful and serene natural settings.

Switzerland Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Switzerland.

• Search for affordable flights to Switzerland with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Switzerland with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Switzerland with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable car rentals in Switzerland with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Tips for Driving in Switzerland

Travelling in Switzerland by car is a pleasure. The roads in Switzerland are well maintained and the drivers are courteous and measured. The engineering of the mountain passes and complex tunnels and bridges that ribbon across the landscape is a real marvel.

Whether you’re traveling in your own vehicle or flying in and renting a car, you need to follow these rules when you drive and travel in Switzerland;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Switzerland.
• You may need a visa to enter Switzerland, you can find out more on the State Secretariat for Migration website .
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle when you road trip in Switzerland.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
• It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle inside the car, not in the boot.
• If you wear glasses you must carry a spare pair.
• You will require a Swiss motorway vignette or toll sticker if you want to use the autobahn. It’s almost impossible to avoid doing so, and it’s easy to buy a sticker online , at the border or at a service station just inside the country. If you’re renting a car, the vignette will be included.
• If you’re planning a winter road trip to Switzerland, you should carry snow chains. Road signs will let you know when you need to put them on the car.
• In Switzerland, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. Unless otherwise indicated, the vehicle coming from the right has priority at intersections.
• Drivers approaching roundabouts must give way to all traffic already on them unless otherwise indicated by signs.
• If you have a GPS navigation system that shows you where any speed cameras are, you must deactivate this function. Carrying or using radar detection equipment is illegal when driving through Switzerland.
• You may only use a mobile phone whilst driving with a hands-free device.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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