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Medieval architecture, a handsome lake, and covered wooden bridges that span the River Reuss are among Lucerne’s haul of treasures. But enticed not only by its treasures, tourists from around the world also come to enjoy the wealth of things to do in Lucerne and nearby. Visitors can get their mountain action on day trips to Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Rigi, and Jungfraujoch, and enjoy hassle-free excursions to the bigger city of Zurich, just an hour away by train.
Lucerne is busiest in the summer months (between June and August) when the weather is warm enough for swimming in the lake, and music festivals and the Lucerne Regatta set the city abuzz. Travel during the winter, however, and you’ll be rewarded with snowcapped mountains, the Lucerne Christmas markets, and January’s Lilu Light Festival, during which international artists illuminate the city squares and alleyways with light displays.
Lucerne is reached easily by train, and the main railway station, Bahnhof Luzern, is a transport hub from where boats and buses also depart. All of Lucerne’s main sights are found in the city (zone 10), and the Lucerne Visitor Card—given to overnight hotel guests at no additional cost—covers free public transport in this zone. Otherwise, the city is walkable; you can reach the historic center from Bahnhof Luzern in five minutes, and all the main sights are nearby once there.
The city of Lucerne is best photographed from up high, and one of the most special (if lesser-known) vantage points is up Lucerne’s Sonnenberg mountain. Take a bus to Kriens, then board the blue Sonnenbergbah Funicular, which is a joy to ride. At the top, a restaurant, playground, and walking trails await, along with panoramic views of the city, lake, and mountains.
Attractions 22 | Tours 206 | Reviews 5,308 |
Mark lived and worked in Lucerne for 5+ years, making the most of everything Switzerland had to offer, from fondue and skiing to quick lunchtime dips in the lake.
check out the Kapellbrücke, Europe's oldest covered bridge and a true symbol of the city. You’ll quickly see why it’s the most photographed landmark in Lucerne.
includes brunch close to Kapellbrücke, a stroll beside the lake, and a visit to the old town’s chocolate shops and bakeries. Don’t miss the Löwendenkmal, an impressive lion sculpture carved into the rock.
the view from Mount Pilatus, a truly stunning and unmissable alpine vista. Take a short train ride or tour from the city and then ride the cable car to the top.
visit in late February or March when the city turns into one big festival site for a unique local carnival known as Fastnacht.
walk or take the short funicular ride to Château Gütsch, which sits high above the city, for an amazing view of the city, the lake, and the mountains.
is thinking Lucerne’s all just cheese and chocolate, when it’s actually a small but cosmopolitan university city with lots of great restaurants and bars.
Lucerne is best known for its lake, mountain, and medieval Old Town, which can be seen on one tour. The Old Town standout feature is Chapel Bridge, a picturesque wooden walkway over the Reuss that is the city symbol. Other highlights include the Culture and Congress Centre and Swiss Museum of Transport.
...MoreYes. You can do Lucerne in a day. Start early on an Old Town walking tour, then set sail across the lake toward the house mountain. Take the world's steepest cogwheel train to Pilatus Kulm, and head back down via aerial cableway. Back in town, have fondue at a lakeside restaurant.
...MoreYes. English is widely spoken in Lucerne, particularly in places frequented by tourists. You'll have no trouble buying tickets or ordering food in English. But, if you're after a more immersive local experience, it's worth looking up a few Swiss German phrases before you arrive.
...MoreA walk over the iconic Chapel Bridge is a Lucerne must. From there, take a stroll along the quayside, or get lost among the Old Town's medieval facades, cobblestone streets, colorful fountains, and modern shops. Head north to the Museggmauer city wall to ascend ancient towers for an aerial city view.
...MoreYes, Lucerne is worth visiting, and those on limited time can see a mountain, lake, and Old Town in one day. The Culture and Congress Centre and the Swiss Museum of Transport are great spots for kid-friendly culture. Whether it's your first time or fifteenth, you'll find something to do.
...MoreYes. Expense-wise Lucerne is in line with the rest of Switzerland—a bit heavy on the pocket. To get more bang for your buck, get a city pass, which offers free public transport, covered entrance fees, and discounted experiences. There's also a Lucerne Visitor Card, which offers local discounts.
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