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Lucerne Printable Tourist Map

Lucerne Map: The Attractions

Chapel Bridge

Old Town Lucerne

Water Spike

Jesuit Church

Lucerne Town Hall

Lion Monument

Spreuer Bridge

Musegg Wall

Court Church of St. Leodegar

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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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Spreuer Bridge

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Lucerne, Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region

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Hotel seeburg 4 stars, art deco hotel montana 4 stars.

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Mandarin oriental palace, lucerne 5 stars, grand hotel national luzern 5 stars.

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Hotel Rebstock 4 Stars

Hotel schlüssel seit 1545, current offers, château gütsch, lucerne enjoy summer in luzern.

Price per Suite valid: 26.06.2024 - 31.08.2024

Hotel Continental Park, Lucerne Grand Tour of Switzerland - Luzern

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Hotel Continental Park, Lucerne Unique walking experience

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Lucerne Explorial Basel – a fun treasure hunt with your smartphone

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Hotel Seeburg Luzern, Lucerne Enjoy Summer by the lake

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Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern, Lucerne Discover Luzern

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Culinarium Alpinum, Stans Enjoy the regional cuisine

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• until 18 Aug beyond the font Lucerne
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Luzern Tourismus AG Zentralstrasse 5 6002  Luzern +41 41 227 17 17 [email protected] Website

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Discover Lucerne – Lake Lucerne Region

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.

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Sammlung Rosengart

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• A2/E35 – Lucerne-Basel motorway
• A2/E25 – Lucerne-Zurich motorway
• A14 – Lucerne-Bern motorway
• A4 – Lucerne-Schaffhausen motorway
• B8 – Lucerne-Kriens road
• B14 – Lucerne-Sempach-Emmen road
• B22 – Lucerne-Entlebuch road
• B27 – Lucerne-Giswil road
• B452 – Lucerne-Bürgenstock road
• B463 – Lucerne-Emmenbrücke road

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Popular road trips from lucerne, what's the weather like in lucerne.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Lucerne for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Lucerne in January
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All road trips from Lucerne

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Explore nearby places

• Kastanienbaum
• Burgenstock
• Ennetbuergen
• Kuessnacht am Rigi
• Rigi Kaltbad

All related maps of Lucerne

• Map of Kriens
• Map of Horw
• Map of Emmen
• Map of Obernau
• Map of Ebikon
• Map of Meggen
• Map of Kastanienbaum
• Map of Rothenburg
• Map of Hergiswil
• Map of Dierikon
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• Map of Burgenstock
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Lucerne throughout the year

• Lucerne in January
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• Lucerne in October
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Lucerne?

Get inspired for your trip to Lucerne with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Lucerne Itinerary
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21 Top Tourist Attractions in Lucerne, Switzerland

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

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 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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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 ! I simply can’t overstate the amazing experience of wandering through Old Town Lucerne on foot . 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 . Get this : there is no need to worry about 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, though, 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.

More Information

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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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!

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

12 of the best things to do in Lucerne

Sep 21, 2023 • 8 min read

Get to know Lucerne with this guide to the city's best experiences © rudi_suardi / Getty Images

Most visitors to Central Switzerland base themselves in Lucerne in order to  explore the glorious landscape that surrounds it , but don’t forget to make some time for the city itself.

Not only does it have a gorgeous setting on the shore of the Vierwaldstättersee (Lake Lucerne) , but it offers world-class museums, fascinating history, a lively music scene and one of the best preserved medieval old towns in the country.

Make the most of your time in Lucerne by enjoying these top things to do.

1. Walk over Lucerne’s iconic Kapellbrücke

Any tourism image of Lucerne is likely to feature this covered wooden footbridge, which straddles the Reuss River flowing out of the lake. Dating from the early 14th century, the  Kapellbrücke is the symbol of the city, but it was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1993, to the heartbreak of the city’s inhabitants. However, the adjacent water tower survived, and a meticulous reconstruction restored the bridge and its painted roof panels to their former glory within just eight months. For the best introduction to the city, make this your first stop after arriving at the nearby train station.

Detour: Downriver is a mini version of the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuerbrücke , the oldest original bridge in Lucerne, dating from 1408. Its wooden roof joists feature painted panels depicting the Dance of Death, inspired by the city’s plague history.

2. Admire the painted buildings of the Altstadt

Lucerne’s gorgeous Altstadt (Old Town) is characterized by its beautifully decorated buildings, whose colorful frescos depict elements of the city’s history and culture, such as the annual Fasnacht (carnival), the legend of William Tell and historic battles. Take a stroll to admire the the traditional guild house Pfistern building, the Hotel des Balances and the decorative buildings on Hirschenplatz, Weinmarkt and Mühlenplatz. Linger for longer in one of the many cafes dotted throughout the area.

Planning tip:  The Altstadt has numerous water fountains, so don’t buy bottled water – bring a refillable one and help yourself en route.

3. Stroll along Lucerne’s medieval ramparts

This was once a fortified city, and some of its medieval ramparts remain in the form of the  Museggmauer , a stretch of wall and nine towers. You can explore it in either direction. From the Nölliturm in the west of the old town, take the Museggmauerweg up past the Männliturm and on towards the Wachturm, from where you can walk right along the ramparts themselves towards the Schirmerturm. Several of the towers can be climbed, including the Zytturm (clock tower), for a far-reaching view of the city and Pilatus, the mountain that overlooks it.

4. Delve into Picasso’s life and art at the Sammlung Rosengart

The  Sammlung Rosengart – or Lucerne’s Picasso museum, as some locals call it – is the private art collection of Swiss art dealers Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela. The pair were friends with Picasso, and a whole floor is dedicated to his work, with around 40 examples of his imaginative, playful mind.

The basement displays numerous paintings and sketches by Swiss-born artist Paul Klee, while upstairs features classic modernist work by Cézanne, Monet, Matisse, Braque, Miró, Chagall and more. Don’t miss the photographs of Picasso and his second wife Jacqueline, taken at the couple’s home near Cannes in the 1960s by the American war photographer David Douglas Duncan, which give a glimpse into their life together.

Planning tip:  If you’re considering visiting several of Lucerne’s museums, it may be better value to buy a  Museum Card , which gives access to nine museums over two consecutive days, for Sfr39.

5. Catch the funicular up to Château Gütsch for a drink with a view

Look downriver and you’ll see a fairy-tale castle perched on a hill above the city. This Rapunzel-esque hotel, Château Gütsch , dates from 1901, although there was an inn up here half a century earlier. It’s easily reached thanks to a funicular that rises up the hill from town and deposits you right next to the hotel. Check out the view from the top or linger with a drink on the hotel’s terrace, with the city and lake puddling far below.

Planning tip:  Essentially an elevator, the funicular is just a five-minute walk from the southern end of the Spreuerbrücke and runs on demand from early morning to late night. Press the button to call it down.

6. Have a quiet moment with the Lion Monument

It’s worth making the short walk from the Altstadt to the  Löwendenkmal , a large stone relief carving of a dying lion, fashioned out of the rock in a former quarry in the north of the city. It’s a poignant memorial to the Swiss Guards who died protecting King Louis XVI of France from revolutionaries in 1792, and was instigated by one of their number who happened not to be on duty that day. Danish artist Bertel Thorvaldsen’s design is achingly sad, but what should be a tranquil, reflective space is somewhat spoiled by selfie-touting tour groups, so come early or late to see the lion in peace.

7. Enjoy live classical music at the KKL

Right on the lakeshore next to the train station, with a huge black flat roof, the  Kultur und Kongresszentrum Luzern (KKL) is hard to miss. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, this vast postmodern arts center and concert venue enjoys world-class acoustics and facilities, attracting the biggest names in classical music. The annual  Lucerne Festival is a major date on the orchestral calendar, while a number of other festivals, including  Luzern Live and  Piano Fest , are worth looking out for throughout the year.

Planning tip:  The KKL’s cafe, Le Piaf, is great for lunch or a coffee, or you could buy a takeaway drink and head for the fountain and surrounding boardwalks outside, a popular meeting spot on a sunny day.

8. Enjoy a drink on the lakeshore at Inseli Park

The place to be on a warm early evening is Inseli Park , a strip of grass on the lakeshore near the KKL cultural center. Two little cafe-bars at either end of the park – Buvette and Volière – serve cocktails, beers, wine and soft drinks plus some light bites. Pull up a chair or swing your legs over the lake wall and enjoy the buzz and the lovely views. If you’re saving centimes, grab a picnic and drinks from Coop supermarket or Bachmann bakery (both in the nearby train station) and sit on the grass.

9. Take a ride through the history of transport at the Verkehrshaus

Switzerland is rightly proud of its fantastic transport system – much of which is demonstrated in and around Lucerne – and nowhere does this pride show more than at the  Verkehrshaus der Schweiz (Swiss Museum of Transport). Paying homage to every method of transport you can think of, this is a hugely hands-on museum, with cockpits to sit in, simulators to test out, digital and physical games to play and all sorts of trains, planes and automobiles to check out. Ideal for kids , big kids and transport nerds.

Detour: The museum is a short walk from the lakeside next to the Verkehrshaus ferry stop. Make time for a swim, or walk five minutes along the lake to the  Sunset Bar which, as the name suggests, is a great place for a drink as the sun goes down.

10. Swim and barbecue at the Ufschötti

On a sunny summer afternoon, follow the stream of locals to Ufschötti on Alpenquai, a ten-minute walk from the KKL. This park with a sandy beach on the lakeshore is a lovely place to while away an afternoon sunbathing, swimming and barbecuing. There’s a cafe-bar for drinks and a pétanque pitch if you fancy a game or two.

11. See where Wagner lived and composed the Siegfried Idyll

It’s no surprise that Lucerne’s beautiful lakeside location has inspired numerous artists and musicians over the years. German composer Richard Wagner was so taken with the city that he rented a villa on the lakeshore at Tribschen for several years from 1866. Today it’s a  museum exploring the composer’s time here, his famous works and his romantic entanglements. His chamber piece Siegfried Idyll was written for his second wife on the birth of their son Siegfried and first performed on the villa’s staircase.

Planning tip:  Rather than walking, take the ferry from Bahnhofquai to Tribschen, a five-minute journey. The museum is a two-minute walk from the jetty.

12. Go underground in Lucerne’s Cold War bunker

If you fancy something a little different, head for the Sonnenberg hill, where in 1976 Lucerne created a nuclear fallout shelter designed to protect a third of the city’s population. Why? Because at the height of the Cold War neutral Switzerland was a little paranoid about its geographical location at the heart of Europe and ruled that every citizen should have a place to hole up if needs be. Lucerne’s authorities decided that two motorway tunnels under the Sonnenberg hill could work as a temporary shelter, so they built a command center there that could run operations for up to 20,000 people if deployed. Book ahead for a fascinating tour of the  Sonnenberg Civil Protection Facility and see where and how people would have slept, eaten and used the toilet in post-apocalyptic Lucerne.

Planning tip: Reserve in advance to join a public tour in English, held on the last Sunday of the month from April to August, or book your own private tour.

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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.

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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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Map of Lucerne, Switzerland

Use the map to navigate around lucerne, plan a route to any place or address and check out popular tourist spots..

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🎡 What to do in Lucerne 🚣‍♂️

In Lucerne, immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Lucerne, explore historic landmarks such as Chapel Bridge, and indulge in mountain adventures in nearby Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi.

Best Budget Activity in Lucerne:

Chapel Bridge and Water Tower : Stroll along Chapel Bridge, one of Lucerne's iconic landmarks, and admire the picturesque views of the river and surrounding architecture.

Best Mid-Range Activity in Lucerne:

Boat Cruise on Lake Lucerne : Embark on a scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, soaking in the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps and surrounding villages.

Best Luxury Activity in Lucerne:

Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip : Experience a luxury journey to Mount Pilatus, including a boat cruise, cogwheel train ride, cable car ascent, and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.

Recommendations:

Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport, take a cogwheel train to Mount Rigi, explore the Old Town with a guided walking tour. Discover the diverse range of activities that Lucerne has to offer, catering to all budgets and preferences! 🏞️🏰

🍴 Where to eat in Lucerne 🇨🇭

In Lucerne, indulge in culinary delights such as traditional Swiss fondue, hearty Rösti, and mouthwatering chocolate treats.

Best Budget Restaurant in Lucerne:

Best mid-range restaurant in lucerne:, best luxury restaurant in lucerne:.

Restaurant Schluessel, Rathaus Brauerei, Bellini Locanda Ticinese

Best Budget Bar in Lucerne:

Craft beers

Best Mid-Range Bar in Lucerne:

Local wines

Best Luxury Bar in Lucerne:

Signature cocktails

🏰 What to see in Lucerne 🌉

Lucerne is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, from the iconic Chapel Bridge to the majestic Lion Monument, offering a glimpse into Switzerland's rich cultural heritage.

The Chapel Bridge is one of Lucerne's most famous landmarks, adorned with stunning paintings depicting Swiss history, offering picturesque views of the river and surrounding architecture.

Pay tribute to the brave Swiss Guards with a visit to the Lion Monument, a poignant sculpture carved into a rock face, commemorating the fallen soldiers of the French Revolution.

Wander through the charming cobbled streets of Lucerne's Old Town, lined with colorful buildings, boutique shops, cafes, and historic squares, exuding a medieval charm.

Explore the well-preserved Musegg Wall and Towers, offering panoramic views of Lucerne and the surrounding mountains, showcasing medieval fortifications and clock towers.

Take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, surrounded by the serene Swiss Alps, quaint villages, and lush landscapes, providing a peaceful escape into nature.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Lucerne 🛒

Discover a shopper's paradise in Lucerne, bustling with charming boutiques, souvenir shops, and luxury brands, offering a diverse shopping experience in the heart of Switzerland.

Best Budget Shopping Place in Lucerne:

Old Town Markets : Explore the vibrant Old Town Markets, where you can find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delicious Swiss chocolates at affordable prices.

Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Lucerne:

Hertensteinstrasse : Stroll down Hertensteinstrasse, lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and designer boutiques, offering a mix of fashion, jewelry, and home decor at moderate prices.

Best Luxury Shopping Place in Lucerne:

Bucherer : Indulge in luxury shopping at Bucherer, a renowned Swiss watch and jewelry retailer, showcasing a dazzling collection of high-end timepieces and elegant accessories.

Visit Schwanenplatz for upscale shopping, explore the historic Weinmarkt square for unique antiques, and stop by the Swiss Knife Center for a selection of iconic Swiss Army knives. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly finds or luxurious splurges, Lucerne's shopping scene has something for every style and preference! 🎁💎

🚃 Getting Around Lucerne

Public transport.

Lucerne offers an efficient and reliable public transportation system, making it easy for visitors to explore the city and its surrounding areas. The main modes of public transport include buses and trains. Buses run regularly throughout the city and its surroundings, with routes covering key attractions and neighborhoods. Train services connect Lucerne to other Swiss cities and popular tourist destinations. Visitors can purchase single tickets or day passes for unlimited travel within a specified zone. Timetables are available online and at major transportation hubs.

Main Transportation Hubs

- Lucerne Train Station: Located in the heart of the city, Lucerne Train Station is a major transportation hub offering connections to various destinations in Switzerland. - Lucerne Bus Terminal: The city's bus terminal is conveniently situated near the train station, providing easy access to different bus routes within Lucerne and beyond.

Rental Services

🚗 Car Rentals: Several car rental companies operate in Lucerne, offering a range of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets. Providers include Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt. Prices typically start from CHF 50 per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For a more eco-friendly way to explore Lucerne, visitors can opt for bicycle rentals. Companies like Rent a Bike and Bike & Travel Lucerne offer bike rental services at affordable rates, starting from CHF 20 per day. Cycling around the city allows for a unique and leisurely sightseeing experience.

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Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 15 Best Things to Do in Lucerne (Switzerland)

15 Best Things to Do in Lucerne (Switzerland)

It’s no mystery why Lucerne is so beloved by tourists. The city rests beside Lake Lucerne, couched in a heart-lifting mountainous landscape. Both the lake and the mountains are at your fingertips, whether you feel like a paddle steamer cruise or want to conquer a mighty Alpine peak like Pilatus or Rigi.

There’s also plenty to occupy you in the city, on the historic streets of the traffic-free Old Town, where medieval guildhalls have frescoes on their facades. You’ll venture over medieval wooded bridges with paintings in their ceiling vaults, and scale a line of powerful defensive towers. For more recent wonders see the poignant Lion Monument for Louis XVI’s massacred Swiss Guard, and a park of glacial potholes formed during the last ice age.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Lucerne :

1. Mount Pilatus

Standing in Lucerne it’s impossible not to be mesmerised by this 2,128-metre mountain to the south.

The peak is steeped in folklore, and has the nickname “Dragon Mountain” after a medieval legend claimed it was inhabited by dragons with healing powers.

A trip to the top is always an adventure, but could hardly be more convenient.

In summer a special loop, the Goldene Rundfahrt (Golden Tour) has been devised, in which you depart Lucerne by paddle steamer.

After going ashore you’ll ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, with a maximum gradient of 48%. And then after being dazzled by the scenery you’ll catch the new “Dragon Ride” aerial cableway, followed by a gondola cableway back down.

2. Old Town

On the right bank of the Reuss, allow as much time as you can to potter around Lucerne’s historic core.

There’s a sequence of squares hemmed by tall painted houses and linked by cobblestone shopping streets.

All of the old centre is free of traffic, leaving it for the hordes of shoppers and sightseers.

Weinmarkt is the obligatory starting point and is walled by medieval guildhalls, some with decorative painted facades.

Not far along on Kornmarkt is the Renaissance Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hal), built at the start of the 17th century and with lovely arcades on the ground floor.

Related tour : 2-Hour Walking Tour to Chapel Bridge and Old Town

3. Lake Lucerne

Known as the “Lake of the Four Cantons”, Lake Lucerne is a stunning body of water with an irregular shape that invites you to explore.

The lake has four arms going off at sharp angles, with epic mountains on all sides.

Lucerne sits in the northwesternmost nook, and you can make for the Luzern Bahnhofquai to catch one of five early-20th-century paddle steamers for cruises on the lake.

On land, Lucerne’s waterside neighbourhoods were reconfigured in the 1880s to take advantage of the landscapes.

The Nationalquai and Schweizerhofquai are refined, leafy promenades traced by mansions and where you can contemplate the lake and alpine peaks like Pilatus and Rigi.

Recommended tour : 2-Hour Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Lucerne

4. Swiss Museum of Transport

The most-visited museum in Switzerland is a great deal more than just a collection of vehicles.

At the Verkehrshaus der Schweiz by the water, this is a self-contained world of transport.

There are trains like Switzerland’s first diesel locomotive, 30 aircraft and the Autotheater, an astonishing attraction where a fleet of cars from all eras are stacked six-high on shelves as if they were toys.

But the vehicles are only one side to the story, as there’s also a newly updated planetarium, Switzerland’s first IMAX theatre, a 1:20,0000 scale photo of Switzerland from space and the new Swiss Chocolate Adventure for chocoholics.

Book online : Swiss Museum of Transport Entrance Ticket

5. Chapel Bridge

Crossing the Reuss at an angle is the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge, and Lucerne’s emblem.

The covered wooden bridge dates from the 14th century and runs diagonally for 200 metres.

In the ceiling pediments are triangular 17th-century paintings depicting events from Lucerne’s history.

There are 30 in all and used to be many more before a fire destroyed most of the bridge in 1993. The 35-metre tower that completes this ensemble is planted in the water and predates the bridge by about 30 years.

You can’t go up, but it’s a sight to admire and there’s a souvenir shop on the ground floor.

6. Rosengart Collection

The art dealer Siegfried Rosengart rubbed shoulders with modern painters in the first decades of the 20th century.

Together with his daughter Angela he gathered one of Europe’s richest modern art collections, comprising hundreds of works by artists like Chagall, Monet, Matissse, Miró, Braque and Fernand Léger.

But it’s the trove of pieces by Picasso and Paul Klee that are the crowning glory, and have been given special attention at this museum in the former National Bank building.

The museum was opened by Angela in 2002 and displays more than 300 pieces at any one time.

7. The Lion Monument

Carved into a former sandstone quarry is a rock relief of a dying lion.

The monument was designed by the Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn in the early 1820s by Lukas Ahorn.

The lion represents the Swiss Guard, which was massacred while trying to protect Louis XVI at the Tuileries Palace on 10 August 1792 during the French Revolution.

There’s rich symbolism in the work: The lion rests on top of a broken shield with the fleur-de-lis of the French royalty, and behind him is another intact shield with the Swiss coat of arms.

Get here early in the day to avoid the crowds.

8. Glacier Garden

Near the Lion Monument is a natural site that dumbfounded scientists when it was discovered in 1872. There’s a group of potholes that were formed during the last ice age 20,000 years ago.

And much older than these are the fossils of shellfish and palm fronds from when this spot was the shore of a subtropical sea some 20 million years ago.

These natural phenomena are complemented by new hands-on exhibits, as well as an 18th-century relief model of Switzerland.

And see if you can solve the Alhambra mirror maze, made with 90 mirrors and dating to 1896. From there, take the “Stone of Time” path to the observation tower, treating you to knockout views of Lucerne and Mount Pilatus in the background.

9. Musegg Wall

As we see them now, Lucerne’s city defences were raised at the end of 14th century and defend the old town on the sharp slope to the north.

It’s a breathtaking sight, as there are nine tall towers in a row all divided by a length of the of the city wall.

Four of them are accessible, including the famous Zytturm, which holds the oldest clock in the city.

This dates to 1535, and it honour of its age is permitted to chime a minute before Lucerne’s other clocks.

The other three towers are all worth scaling to survey the city and lake.

Included in : Lucerne: Classic City Walking Tour

10. Hofkirche

Lucerne’s medieval Romanesque basilica was burnt down During the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century.

So while the war was still raging in the 1630s the city built its new church, and it was one of only a few churches to be erected north of the Alps in that period.

The architecture is in the late Renaissance style, but there are elements from the original church, like the pair of towers and some medieval and Renaissance ornamentation in the interior.

On the north side of the nave is the polychrome Maria-End-Altar, which was rescued from the fire and was crafted in the 1500s.

It shows a dying Virgin Mary surrounded by the Apostles.

From the time of the 17th-century rebuild check out the black marble high altar and the exceptional carved wooden choir stalls.

11. Richard Wagner Museum

In 1865 after his affairs had got him into trouble, Richard Wagner was forced by Ludwig II to leave Munich.

The king set him up in a manor house in lakeside parkland in Lucerne’s Tribschen district.

Wagner lived in the house for six years, during which time he began Götterdämmerung and wrote Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg.

The house is now a museum about Wagner and his time in Lucerne.

There’s correspondence, musical manuscripts, furniture, paintings and photographs to browse.

But the best bit is the Erard piano on which he composed his masterpieces.

12. Jesuit Church

This church was built just a few decades after the Hofkirche, and has an eye-catching Baroque style as a beacon of the Counter Reformation in the face of protestant cities like Geneva and Zürich.

The Jesuit Church was designed by architects from Austria and Italy, consecrated in 1677 and completed over the course of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Inside, the ornate stuccowork in the side chapels is the earliest example of the influential German Wessobrunner School.

The second side chapel is dedicated to the hermit and now saint, Brother Klaus, and you can see his 15th-century vestments.

13. Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre

Where the Reuss flows off the lake is jaw-dropping piece of modern architecture.

The Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre was drawn up by Jean Nouvel and took shape between 1995 and 2000. The feature that will catch your eye right away is the colossal flat roof pushing out over the waterfront.

Underneath it is a complex dominated by first-class concert hall, which has 1,800 seats and the best acoustics you could hope to experience.

The Lucerne Art Museum is also inside and has works from the Renaissance to the present.

Day or night you can also grab coffee or a bite at the unfussy World Café, which has warming stews in winter and ice cream in summer.

14. Reuss River Sights

Lucerne has a second medieval bridge downriver, against the western corner of the Old Town.

The 15th-centtury Spreuer Bridge is in the same format as the Chapel Bridge, featuring a roof, truss design and more 17th-century paintings on its ceiling pediments.

Painted between 1616 and 1637 these depict a Danse Macabre and each image is accompanied by a description and details of the donors.

Carry on downriver for a moment and you’ll come to the Nadelwehr (Needle Dam). The river’s history of floods was consigned to the past in 1852 when this dam was installed to maintain the level of the lake.

It’s an ingeniously simple system, involving wooden planks (needles) that are added or removed to regulate the flow on the Reuss.

Related tour : 1-Hour Historical Tour with Night Watchman

15. Bourbaki Panorama

Near the Lion Monument and Glacier Garden on Löwenplatz is a visitor attraction now almost 140 years old.

The Swiss artist Édouard Castres painted a panorama of a defining moment in the France-Prussian War at the start of the 1870s: In a snowy landscape, the defeated French army trudges into Switzerland for refuge.

The painting measures 112 metres by 10 and is displayed in a rotunda.

Castres had worked as a Red Cross volunteer during the war so could draw on firsthand recollections for his painting.

There’s a small museum at the Bourbaki Panorama, offering some context about the painting and the war.

15 Best Things to Do in Lucerne (Switzerland):

• Mount Pilatus
• Lake Lucerne
• Swiss Museum of Transport
• Chapel Bridge
• Rosengart Collection
• The Lion Monument
• Glacier Garden
• Musegg Wall
• Richard Wagner Museum
• Jesuit Church
• Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre
• Reuss River Sights
• Bourbaki Panorama

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.

• Excursion tips
• In the mountains
• Family excursion
• Wind & rain
• Well-being & spas
• Snowshoeing & winter walking
• Cross-country skiing
• Winter sports resorts
• Biking & cycling
• Lakes & outdoor pools

Small town hopping

• Directions & mobility
• Weather & Webcams
• Brochures & maps
• Hotels in Lucerne
• Holiday homes & apartments
• Extraordinary accommodations
• Tourist Information
• Audio Tour App

Visitor Card Lucerne

Benefit in Lucerne: CityCard Promotion

Your advantages: Visitor Card Lucerne

Tourist Information Lucerne

• Guided tours for individual guests

Guided tours for groups

• Personal tour guide
• Experiences
• Central Switzerland voucher

Museums card: One card, ten museums

Official Guided tours

Tell-Pass: Free travel by train, bus, boat and mountain railroads

Guided Tours

Guided City Tour of Lucerne

The city of Lucerne’s hidden corners, vibrant alleys and ancient buildings form the perfect backdrop for a tour.

Whether you follow an official guide for a general or themed tour or explore the city on your own, a trip around Lucerne is unforgettable! Experience the diversity of the Lake Lucerne Region on a guided excursion.

Themed tours for

individual guests

Private city tours for

City tours 2024