Lucerne, Switzerland: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Lucerne
lucerne

Luzern (loot-SAIRN, “Lucerne” in English) has served as Switzerland’s premier destination for tourism for an extensive period. Nestled along the shoreline of a lake (also known as Vierwaldstätter See), and set against the stunning backdrop of the Alps, Luzern held a regular spot on the European Grand Tour circuit during the Romantic era. It welcomed illustrious visitors such as Mark Twain, Goethe, and Queen Victoria. With its captivating old town, a pair of picturesque wooden bridges, an array of exceptional museums, and the renowned weeping lion monument, Luzern boasts attractions that solidify its place on any Swiss travel agenda. Furthermore, Luzern serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the nearby region recognized as Central Switzerland (Zentralschweiz).

TIP: If you are visiting Lucerne for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide. This is one of the most complete and best-rated city tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in about 2 hours. If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our Self Guided Walking Tour of Lucerne (With Maps!).

Nice to know: The name “Luzern” is derived from lucerna, Latin for “lamp”.

History of Lucerne

The ‘City of Light’ Emerges – Stone Age – IX Century

Although there are some remnants from the Stone Age and Roman times, Lucerne’s history becomes more prominent around 840. Documents mention the name Luciaria, possibly meaning ‘place of light,’ a moniker that still resonates with Lucerne today. During the early Middle Ages, the town primarily consisted of the Benedictine abbey of Saint Leodegar, the town’s patron saint, and the houses situated at each end of the bridge over the River Reuss.

A Trans-Alpine Trade Boom – XII – XVII Century

For a considerable period, Lucerne served as a regional market town, with a weekly market held on Tuesdays—a tradition that continues to this day. In the 13th century, the north-south trade route across the Gotthard Pass transformed Lucerne into a vital commercial hub. This trade path connected the Upper Rhine Plain with Milan and thrived until the 17th century.

Alliances with the ‘Forest Counties’ – XIII – XIV Century

Prior to the 15th century, Lucerne was under Habsburg rule without major issues. In 1332, amid a power struggle between the German kings Ludwig and Friedrich, Lucerne formed a pact with the three waldstätten or ‘forest counties’—Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden—encompassing Lake Lucerne. This military alliance gradually expanded to become the Swiss Confederacy, laying the groundwork for the modern Swiss state.

Lucerne’s Role in the Catholic Faith – XVI – XVII Century

Religion assumed significant importance in the 1500s as the Reformation swept across Europe. Zurich and Bern, neighboring confederates, adopted the new confession, while Lucerne adhered to the old faith, becoming a prominent center for Catholicism. In the 16th and 17th centuries, new monasteries for the Capuchins, Jesuits, and Ursulines were constructed. Tensions related to faith, sometimes leading to wars, arose within the Swiss Confederacy. Lucerne emerged as the leader of the Catholic faction and assumed the role of the papal envoy’s seat in 1586, as well as the Spanish ambassador’s seat in 1595.

Profits from the War Business – XV – XIX Century

Apart from trans-Alpine trade, mercenaries were a significant source of income for Lucerne and its surrounding region. Numerous young Swiss men left the area between approximately 1400 and 1800 to serve abroad, fighting for France, Spain, the Duchy of Savoy, and other contemporary powers. During this period, the population of Lucerne only numbered around 4,000. While some mercenaries returned home wealthy, many did not return at all, and the well-connected families who brokered these arrangements reaped the greatest benefits.

Napoleon and the Onset of Tourism -XVIII – XIX Century

In 1798, Napoleon’s occupation resulted in Lucerne’s loss of independence as the Swiss Confederacy was transformed into the Helvetic Republic for a brief five years. After the return of the old powers, Switzerland was officially established in 1848, marking the birth of the modern nation-state. In 1859, modernity arrived in Lucerne in the form of the railway, sparking rapid expansion of the town on the southern riverbank. By 1830, tourism had taken root, with the lake, easily accessible mountains, and some of the earliest mountain railways making Lucerne a favored destination for those fortunate enough to travel for leisure. Many of the grand hotels and attractions, such as the Gletschergarten, were constructed toward the end of the 19th century.

Modern-Day Lucerne – XX – XI Century

In the 20th century, Lucerne evolved into a vibrant central hub for the Central Switzerland region, acquiring university status in 2000. Architect Jean Nouvel’s KKL concert hall, inaugurated in 2000, gave the town a contemporary facelift. Culturally, Lucerne is renowned for hosting the second-largest Swiss carnival (after Basel), known for its exuberance, as well as the Lucerne Festival for classical music, enjoying significant international acclaim. This recognition is partly due to the esteemed conductor Claudio Abbado, who led the festival from 2003 until his unexpected passing in 2014.

Visiting Lucerne for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Lucerne on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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22 Best places to See in Lucerne

This complete guide to Lucerne not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Lucerne and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Torbogen Luzern

Torbogen Luzern
Torbogen Luzern
If you arrive in Lucerne by train, Torbogen Luzern is likely the first landmark you will see. Standing proudly in front of the modern Lucerne Railway Station, this lone arch is all that remains of the grand 1896 station building, a graceful stone portal framing the lake and mountains beyond. It is more than just an architectural fragment: it is…
Location: Luzern, Zentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland | Hours: Accessible at all times, in line with the public station forecourt and lakefront area. | Price: Free — Torbogen Luzern is a public monument on an open plaza. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Torbogen Luzern

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Lucerne. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Kunstmuseum Luzern

Kunstmuseum Luzern
Kunstmuseum Luzern
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Photones
Hidden high above the busy forecourt of Lucerne’s railway station, Kunstmuseum Luzern feels like a calm, light-filled refuge from the city. Occupying the uppermost level of the Culture and Convention Center Lucerne (KKL), the museum was envisioned by French architect Jean Nouvel as a minimalist “white cube” world, perfectly tuned to showcase art and frame views of Lake Lucerne and…
Location: Kunstmuseum Luzern, Europaplatz, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday closed | Price: Adults: CHF 15 | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Kunstmuseum Luzern

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Museum Rosengart Collection

Sammlung Rosengart Luzerne
Sammlung Rosengart Luzerne
CC BY-SA 3.0 / WES1947
Just a few steps from Lucerne’s railway station and lakefront, the Museum Rosengart Collection feels like opening a beautifully curated jewellery box of modern art. Once the personal collection of art dealer Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela, it brings together more than 300 works by 23 artists of Classical Modernism, including around 125 pieces by Paul Klee and some…
Location: Sammlung Rosengart, Pilatusstrasse, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: April to October: 10.00–18.00 daily (including public holidays) November to March: 11.00–17.00 daily (including public holidays) | Price: Adults: CHF 20.00 | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Museum Rosengart Collection

Explore Lucerne at your own pace with our self-guided walking tour! Follow our curated route to discover must-see sights and local secrets that makes Lucerne one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Chapel Bridge and Water Tower

Chapel Bridge Lucerne Switzerland
Chapel bridge Lucerne Switzerland
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tony Badwy
The moment you arrive in Lucerne, your eyes are drawn to the sloping roofline of Chapel Bridge or Kapellbrücke and the sturdy octagonal Water Tower anchored in the Reuss. This 14th-century covered timber bridge, widely regarded as Europe’s oldest, once formed part of the city’s defensive ring and today feels like one of the best places to visit in Lucerne,…
Location: Chapel Bridge, Kapellbrücke, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Chapel Bridge is an open public footbridge accessible at all hours; nearby churches, museums and shops follow standard city opening times. | Price: Free to cross the bridge and admire the tower from outside; budget around €5–€10 if you choose a guided walking tour including the area. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Chapel Bridge and Water Tower

Click here to read our blog about Complete Guide to Visiting Mount Pilatus in a Day (2025)

Kornmarkt

Facade Of House On Kornmarkt Square
Facade of House on Kornmarkt Square
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Aniacra
Kornmarkt is one of those Old Town squares where you can almost hear the echo of merchants’ voices if you pause for a moment. From 1356 until the late 1800s, this plaza was the bustling centre of Lucerne’s grain trade, with sacks of wheat and rye changing hands under the watchful gaze of the town hall and its tower. Today,…
Location: Kornmarkt, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: The square is accessible at all times; access to the Rathaus interior depends on council business, events, and occasional tours. | Price: Free — Kornmarkt is a public square, and viewing the tower and Rathaus exterior costs nothing. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Kornmarkt

Peter's Chapel

Peterskapelle
Peterskapelle
CC BY-SA 3.0 / SwirlyLand
Tucked into Kapellplatz at the entrance to Lucerne’s Old Town, Peterskapelle feels like a quiet spiritual anchor amid the bustle of shops, cafés, and the nearby Chapel Bridge. Built in the early 14th century and dedicated to St Peter, patron saint of fishermen, it reflects Lucerne’s origins as a lakeside town where life revolved around the water. For many visitors…
Location: Peterskapelle, Kapellplatz, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Open 8.30am - 6.30pm. | Price: Free; donations for the upkeep of the chapel are appreciated. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Peter's Chapel

Fritschi Fountain

Fritschibrunnen Fern
Fritschibrunnen Fern
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Caahlo
Right at the entrance to Lucerne’s Old Town, Kapellplatz opens up around the Fritschi Fountain, a vivid burst of colour and carnival folklore in stone. Designed by architect August von Rhyn and unveiled in 1918, the fountain’s tall column is crowned by a bannerman and ringed with expressive masks, including those of Brother Fritschi and his spouse, while water spills…
Location: Fritschibrunnen, Kapellplatz, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Accessible at all times; carnival events and parades follow specific seasonal schedules. | Price: Free — the fountain stands in a public square open to everyone. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Fritschi Fountain

Lucerne Town Hall

Rathaus Luzern
Rathaus Luzern
CC BY-SA 3.0 / WES1947
Right on the banks of the River Reuss, Lucerne Town Hall (Rathaus) is the building you keep circling back to as you wander the Old Town. Its Renaissance façade, broad, low-sloping roof and attached tower form a perfect backdrop to the arcaded Rathausquai, where cafés and restaurants spill out towards the water. Twice a week, on market mornings, stalls fill…
Location: Rathaus Stadt Luzern, Kornmarkt, Luzern, Switzerland | Hours: The building functions as a working town hall; interior spaces such as the Kornschütte and council chambers are generally accessible only during exhibitions, concerts, events or guided tours. | Price: There is no fee to enjoy the exterior or weekly market; access to interior rooms may be by guided tour or special event, sometimes with a modest charge. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Lucerne Town Hall

Jesuitenkirche

Jesuitenkirche Jesuit Church Lucerne
Jesuitenkirche Jesuit Church Lucerne
Standing proudly along the Reuss, Jesuitenkirche (Jesuit Church) is the soft, rose-and-cream Baroque landmark you keep catching out of the corner of your eye as you wander along the river. Built from 1666 under the patronage of Ludwig Pfyffer von Altishofen and dedicated to Francis Xavier, it marked the arrival of the Jesuits and the Counter Reformation in Lucerne. Today…
Location: Jesuitenkirche, Bahnhofstrasse, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Generally open daily during daylight hours, with some sections occasionally closed during services, rehearsals or concerts. | Price: Free entry; donations towards maintenance and church activities are appreciated. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Jesuitenkirche

Hirschenplatz

Dornacher House Hirschenplatz
Dornacher House Hirschenplatz
Hirschenplatz, or Stag Square, is one of those corners of Lucerne that feels instantly welcoming. Tucked into the Old Town, it is framed by traditional houses whose ornamented façades are under historical monument protection, each one telling its own quiet story in stucco, paint, and carved wood. The square takes its name from the former Hirschen Hotel and its marvelous…
Location: Hirschenplatz, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Accessible at all times; surrounding shops, cafés, and interiors follow their own opening hours. | Price: Free — Hirschenplatz is a public square with no entrance charge. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Hirschenplatz

Ritterscher Palace

Ritterscher Palace
Ritterscher Palace
CC BY-SA 3.0 / WES1947
Tucked beside the Jesuit Church on the banks of the Reuss, Ritterscher Palace is one of the top sights in Lucerne for travellers who love Renaissance architecture and stories of power, faith, and intrigue. At first glance it looks like an imposing government building, but step into its courtyard and you’ll find a refined Italianate palazzo that once proclaimed the…
Location: Government Buildings of Canton Lucerne Bahnhofstrasse 15 6003 Luzern Switzerland | Hours: Access typically aligns with cantonal administration business hours on weekdays; the courtyard and interiors are generally closed in the evenings and at weekends. | Price: Free — public access to the courtyard and any visitor areas is generally without charge, though some spaces are restricted. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Ritterscher Palace

Weinmarkt

Weinmarkt Lucerne
Weinmarkt Lucerne
CC BY-SA 3.0 / trolvag
Weinmarkt is one of those Old Town squares that quietly reveals the deeper layers of a city’s story. Today it feels like a charming, almost stage-like space framed by colourful historic façades, but for centuries this “Wine Market” was the beating commercial and political heart of Lucerne. Long before it took its present name, the square served as the fish…
Location: Weinmarkt, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Accessible at all times, though shops and cafés around the square follow their own individual opening hours. | Price: Free — Weinmarkt is a public square open to everyone. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Weinmarkt

History Museum

Luzern Historisches Museum
Luzern Historisches Museum
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Aniacra
Tucked in a former arsenal on the banks of the Reuss, the History Museum Lucerne (Historisches Museum Luzern) is where the city’s past feels surprisingly alive. Instead of just reading labels, you watch actors guide visitors on theatrical tours, slipping into the roles of townspeople, soldiers, or traders as they reveal how people once lived, worked, and celebrated along this…
Location: Historisches Museum Luzern, Pfistergasse, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 to 17:00, closed on Mondays | Price: Adults: CHF 10.00 | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting History Museum

Spreuerbrücke

Luzern Spreuerbrucke
Luzern Spreuerbrucke
CC BY-SA 3.0 / ermell
The Spreuerbrücke has a very different mood from Lucerne’s more famous Chapel Bridge. Tucked slightly downstream on the River Reuss, it feels darker, quieter, and more intimate, with its low roof, creaking timbers, and striking series of Danse Macabre paintings that line the interior. For many travellers, this characterful bridge is one of the must-see places in Lucerne, especially if…
Location: Spreuer Bridge, Spreuerbrücke, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Accessible at all times, though guided tours and nearby museums follow their own schedules. | Price: Free (public footbridge, no entrance charge) | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Spreuerbrücke

Museggmauer (Musegg Wall)

Musegg Wall
Musegg Wall
CC BY-SA 3.0 / WES1947
High above Lucerne’s Old Town, the Musegg Wall and its nine towers draw a jagged line across the hillside, a reminder that this pretty lakeside city was once built to withstand attack. Walking the path along the wall is where the magic really happens: gaps between the stonework frame the lake basin, Mount Pilatus and the rooftops below, so you…
Location: Museggmauer Auf Musegg 6004 Luzern Switzerland | Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. between 1 April and 1 November | Price: Walking along the Musegg Wall and entering the open towers is generally free; some specialised guided tours may charge from around €10–€20 per person. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Museggmauer (Musegg Wall)
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Natur-Museum

Natur Museum Luzern
Natur Museum Luzern
CC BY-SA 2.5 / Naturmuseum Luzern
Natur-Museum Luzern is the kind of place that surprises you in the best way. From the outside it looks like a classic city museum, but step inside and you are greeted by terrariums and aquariums full of local and exotic species, clever displays about the plants and animals of Central Switzerland, and a playful approach that is both educational and…
Location: Natur-Museum Luzern, Kasernenplatz, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 5pm; Monday closed | Price: Adult: CHF 10.–; Children (6 - 16 years) CHF 3.– | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Natur-Museum

Hofkirche St. Leodegar

Hofkirche St. Leodegar
Hofkirche St. Leodegar
Perched just above the lakefront promenade, Hofkirche St. Leodegar rises with its striking twin towers and long staircase, instantly recognisable on Lucerne’s skyline. The church’s story stretches back to the mid-8th century, when it formed part of a monastery that helped give birth to the town itself. Fire destroyed much of the earlier Gothic building in 1633, but the towers,…
Location: Hofkirche St. Leodegar, Sankt Leodegarstrasse, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 12pm & 2pm - 4.30pm | Price: Free entry; donations towards the upkeep of the church and its music are appreciated. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Hofkirche St. Leodegar

Bourbaki Panorama

Bourbaki Panorama
Bourbaki Panorama
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Leiju
At first glance, the Bourbaki Panorama looks like a curious round building near Lucerne’s Lion Monument district, but step inside and you are suddenly standing in the middle of a snow-covered landscape in 1871. This monumental 112-by-10-metre painting, completed in 1881 by Edouard Castres, shows the exhausted French Bourbaki army crossing the border into neutral Switzerland and being taken in…
Location: Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne, Löwenplatz, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: April to October daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. November to March daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m | Price: Adult CHF 15.00 | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Bourbaki Panorama

Lion Monument

Lowendenkmal Lion Monument
Lowendenkmal Lion Monument
Free Art License / A.Savin
Tucked into a sandstone cliff above a tranquil pond, the Lion Monument or Löwendenkmal feels surprisingly intimate given its fame and the stream of visitors who come to see it. The sculpture shows a dying lion, pierced by a spear yet still sheltering a shield with the fleur-de-lis of the French monarchy, a powerful tribute to the Swiss Guards killed…
Location: Lion Monument, Denkmalstrasse, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: The monument is in an open park accessible at all hours, though visiting in daylight is recommended to fully appreciate the sculpture. | Price: Visiting the Lion Monument is free; you only need to budget for transport and perhaps a guided walking tour if you want more context. | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Lion Monument
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Glacier Garden

Luzern Gletschergarten
Luzern Gletschergarten
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Leiju
Perched just above Lucerne’s lakeside and Old Town, the Glacier Garden (Gletschergarten) feels like stepping through a doorway into deep time. Here, fossilised “giant’s kettles” carved by ancient glaciers sit beside palm frond and mussel fossils from when this area was a subtropical shoreline 20 million years ago. It is a rare place where you can literally see how ice,…
Location: Gletschergarten Luzern, Denkmalstrasse, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: April 1 to October 31 (sommer season) daily 10 am to 6 pmNovember 1 to March 31 (winter season) daily 10 am to 5 pm | Price: Adults: CHF22 | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Glacier Garden

Richard Wagner Museum

Richard Wagner Museum
Richard Wagner Museum
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Studio1521
On a quiet stretch of lakeshore at Tribschen, just outside Lucerne’s busy centre, the Richard Wagner Museum feels like stepping into a paused moment of 19th-century musical life. Between 1866 and 1872, Wagner lived here with his second wife Cosima and their children, working on compositions and enjoying the calm of Lake Lucerne framed by the surrounding peaks. Today, the…
Location: Richard Wagner Museum Lucerne, Richard-Wagner-Weg, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: The museum is open from Tue - Sun, 11am-5pm. | Price: Adults: 12.00 CHF | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Richard Wagner Museum

Swiss Museum of Transport

Verkehrshaus Der Schweiz Luzern
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz Luzern
CC BY-SA 2.5 / Markus Giger
On the shores of Lake Lucerne, the Swiss Transport Museum (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz) is where Switzerland’s love of trains, mountains and precision engineering comes together under one vast roof. Opened in 1959 and now welcoming over a million visitors a year, it mixes historic locomotives, aircraft, cars and boats with simulators, multimedia shows and hands-on exhibits spread over more than…
Location: Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, Lidostrasse, Lucerne, Switzerland | Hours: Daily: 10:00 - 17:00 | Price: CHF 35.00 | Website | Distance: 149.9km
Visiting Swiss Museum of Transport

Best Day Trips from Lucerne

A day trip from Lucerne offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Lucerne provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Mt. Pilatus

View Of Lake Lucerne From Mt Pilatus
View of Lake Lucerne from Mt Pilatus
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Clare66
Pilatus rises in a jagged wall above Lake Lucerne, its cluster of peaks forming the dramatic backdrop you notice as soon as you step into the city. Between Tomlishorn, Esel and Oberhaupt you get a full sweep of Central Switzerland: glittering lakes, the distant Bernese Alps and, on clear days, tiny boats far below. Many visitors come up for the…
| Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM | Price: Adult Return: CHF 84.00; Golden Ticket: CHF 119.80 | Website | Distance: 8.9km
Visiting Mt. Pilatus
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Lake Lucerne

Steamboat Lake Lucerne
steamboat Lake Lucerne
Lake Lucerne feels like a giant, shimmering crossroads where mountain holidays, lake cruises and Swiss history all meet. Its long, branching arms curve beneath the slopes of Pilatus, Rigi and Bürgenstock, with villages tucked into sheltered bays and steep hillsides dropping right down to the water. On a sunny summer day there are few things lovelier than settling into a…
| Hours: Boat services operate year-round with more frequent sailings in summer; exact departure times vary by route and season, so always check the latest schedule. | Price: Access to the lakeshore is free; expect to pay roughly €25.00–€70.00 per adult for scheduled cruises depending on route length, class of travel and season. | Website | Distance: 9.8km
Visiting Lake Lucerne

Schloss Heidegg

Schlosse Heidegg
Schlosse Heidegg
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rosual
Perched on a hill above Lake Baldegg, Schloss Heidegg feels like the kind of castle you sketch as a child: tower, vineyard slopes, chestnut avenue and a sweeping view over the valley. For centuries it was the residence of the Heidegg family, but today it opens its doors as the Seetal valley’s centre for history and culture. Inside its thick…
Location: Schloss Heidegg, Heidegg, Gelfingen, Switzerland | Hours: The Castle Museum is open in 2023 from April 1st to October 31st. Tuesday to Friday 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m Saturday, Sunday and Easter Monday, Ascension Day and Whit Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m closed on Mondays Last admission 4.30 p.m | Price: Adult CHF 10 | Website | Distance: 18.7km
Visiting Schloss Heidegg

Reichenbach Falls

Reichenbach Falls Wetterhorn
Reichenbach falls Wetterhorn
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Juck He
Tumbling through seven spectacular stages, the Reichenbach Falls are among the most breathtaking natural sights in the Bernese Oberland. Plunging a total of 250 meters (820 feet) down the Rychenbach stream, with the tallest drop—the Grand Reichenbach Fall—soaring 110 meters (360 feet), these cascades have captivated visitors for centuries. Set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and alpine forests, they…
Location: Reichenbachfall Reichenbach 3860 Meiringen Switzerland | Distance: 38.5km
Visiting Reichenbach Falls

Bern

Bern Complete Guide
bern complete guide
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, remarkably preserves its historic features, including its UNESCO-listed old town. Known for its 6 kilometers of arcades, known locally as 'Lauben,' Bern offers one of Europe's longest weather-sheltered shopping promenades. The city's medieval ambiance is complemented by numerous fountains, sandstone facades, narrow streets, and historic towers. Noteworthy viewpoints include the elevated Rose Garden above the…
Visiting Bern
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Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg Im Breisgau
Freiburg im Breisgau
Freiburg im Breisgau, located in the region of Baden-Württemberg, is a charming city nestled at the edge of the Black Forest. Known for its sunny climate, eco-conscious vibe, and vibrant old town, Freiburg offers a laid-back atmosphere with stunning scenery. Cobblestone streets, small canals (Bächle), and a lively market square make it ideal for relaxed exploration on foot. The city…
Visiting Freiburg im Breisgau
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Colmar

Colmar France
Colmar France
Visiting Colmar feels like stepping into a storybook, with its cobblestone streets and charming half-timbered houses. The town’s picturesque canals and flower-lined bridges create an inviting atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. Whether you're exploring the colorful Little Venice area, admiring the scenic beauty of the old town, or enjoying the vibrant marketplace, there is no shortage of delightful places to…
Visiting Colmar
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Como

Como
Como
Como, a stunning city in northern Italy, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Nestled on the shores of Lake Como and surrounded by the foothills of the Alps, Como is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The lake itself, one of the deepest in Europe, is the centerpiece, drawing visitors with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque shoreline…
Visiting Como
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Where to Stay in Lucerne

The best area to stay is in the Old Town, where boutique hotels and lakeside accommodations offer stunning views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. For a more tranquil setting, staying in a lakeside village like Weggis or Vitznau provides a peaceful retreat with easy boat access to the city.

A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal for exploring the Chapel Bridge, visiting Mount Pilatus, and taking a boat cruise on the lake. A 4-day stay allows for side trips to Mount Rigi, Engelberg, or the Swiss Transport Museum.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Lucerne. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Lucerne Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Lucerne

Lucerne, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, is renowned for its stunning lakeside setting, well-preserved medieval architecture, and majestic mountain views. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit Lucerne:

  1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Lucerne as the city awakens from winter and nature comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. This season is ideal for exploring the city’s historic landmarks, such as the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) and the Water Tower (Wasserturm), as well as taking leisurely walks along the shores of Lake Lucerne. Spring also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boat cruises on the lake.
  2. Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Lucerne, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking in the city’s parks and gardens. Summer also brings a variety of cultural events and festivals to Lucerne, including the Lucerne Festival, which showcases world-class music performances. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
  3. Fall (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit Lucerne, as the weather remains pleasant, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. This season is ideal for exploring the city’s museums and galleries, such as the Swiss Museum of Transport and the Rosengart Collection, without the long lines. Fall also offers opportunities for scenic drives and hikes in the nearby mountains, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the autumn foliage.
  4. Winter (December to February): Winter in Lucerne is magical, with snow-capped mountains and festive decorations creating a cozy atmosphere throughout the city. This season offers opportunities for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating in the nearby resorts and on Lake Lucerne. Winter is also a great time to explore the city’s Christmas markets, where you can shop for handmade crafts, enjoy traditional Swiss treats, and soak up the holiday spirit.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Lucerne depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, Lucerne has something to offer for every traveler throughout the year.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 6°C
  • February 7°C
  • March 11°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 18°C
  • June 23°C
  • July 24°C
  • August 24°C
  • September 21°C
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How to get to Lucerne

Getting to Lucerne by Plane

Arriving by Plane Lucerne is most conveniently accessed via Zurich International Airport (ZRH), boasting a broader array of international connections compared to the two alternative airports, EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse (BSL) and Airport Bern-Belp (BRN).

Zurich Airport accommodates approximately 700 daily flights to over 170 destinations globally. As you clear customs, you can find ATMs and switzerlandinfo desks at arrivals 1 and arrivals 2. The airport features an extensive public shopping area with most stores open from 08:00 to 21:00. You can enjoy free Wi-Fi for the initial 2 hours; just connect your device to ‘ZurichAirport’ and follow the instructions provided by your browser.

Getting to Lucerne by Train

Direct trains to Lucerne depart from Zurich Airport every hour and take approximately 70 minutes. Slightly quicker connections are available if you make a brief transfer at Zurich HB. Notably, the train station is conveniently situated within the airport on level -2 of the airport center, where you’ll also find the primary shopping area and check-in 3. Train tickets can be purchased at the counters or from the ticket machines, which can be switched to English on the first screen, located next to the stairs leading down to the platforms.

Arriving by Train Lucerne’s primary train station is positioned right in the city centre, with the lake and KKL on one side and the old town merely a few minutes’ walk away. Both international and domestic connections arrive and depart from this station. Within the station, you’ll find ticket offices, tourist information, and shopping facilities. Buses and taxis operate directly in front of the station. Among the suburban train stations, the one at the Transport Museum (Verkehrshaus) is likely to pique your interest. Train tickets, along with tickets for Lucerne’s public transport and currency exchange services, can be acquired at the ticket office in the main hall. For timetables and tickets, refer to www.sbb.ch.

Getting to Lucerne by Bus

Arriving by Bus Lucerne has some international long-distance bus connections available. Since June 2018, Switzerland introduced domestic intercity buses, offering cost-effective but slower connections. Presently, only Basel and Ticino are well-connected to Lucerne. You can find buses arriving and departing at Inseliquai 10, located just east of the primary train station.

Driving to Lucerne

Arriving by Car Lucerne is conveniently accessible by car via the Swiss motorway A2, connecting to the Gotthard region and Italy to the south, as well as Bern to the north. The A14 motorway comes from Zurich. Traveling to Lucerne by car is straightforward, but it's essential to note that parking can be limited and relatively expensive. For overnight parking, you may attempt to find a spot in the designated blue zone within residential areas. Parking in these areas is free from 19:00 to 08:00; remember to indicate your arrival time on your parking disk. In car parks, the daily parking costs range from approximately 20 to 50 Swiss Francs.

Driving in Switzerland is generally hassle-free. If you use the motorways, you’ll need to purchase a vignette for 40 Swiss Francs, which is available at petrol stations and post offices. Keep in mind that pedestrians at zebra crossings without traffic lights always have the right of way, as do trams. It’s mandatory for cars to have their headlights turned on at all times.

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