Lucerne

Lucerne is located in central Switzerland and is a German-speaking city. It has a population of over 80,000 people and is a hub for economy, culture, tourism and transportation. It is rich in history, tradition and natural beauty. The city lies in the foothills of the Alps and has a beautiful lake at its boundary, making it a sought after tourist destination.

Lucerne serves as a base for adventurers looking to explore the lofty heights of Mt. Titlis, Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Rigi and Jungfraujoch. The city is home to some remarkable slices of history such as the Museggauer (Museg Wall), the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) and the Spreuerbrücke. The latter are two of the oldest covered wooden bridges in the world. Take a trip back in time at the Old Town which still preserves the essence of Lucerne in its little squares and old burgher’s houses.

You can spend hours at the Verkehrshaus der Schweiz (Swiss Transport Museum) which showcases the evolution of mechanised transport in Switzerland. Pay your respects at the Lion of Lucerne. It is a poignant monument that honours the Swiss mercenaries who were massacred during the French Revolution. Not far from the monument is yet another natural wonder, the Glacier Garden. It is a group of glacial potholes that were formed during the last ice age around 20,000 years ago! But the most amazing exhibits here are the 20-million-year-old fossils of shellfish and palm fronds, from a time when this area was subtropical seashore.

For those following the culture trail, the Richard Wagner Museum, the Rosengart Collection and the Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre will give hours of joy and memories of a lifetime.

What to see in Lucerne

1. Lake Lucerne

Surrounded by picturesque lush green mountains and Swiss architecture, Lake Lucerne is an emerald stretch of calm waters situated at an elevation of 1,424 feet from the sea level. Fed by four basins crawling through the edging lands, the lake is always brimming with freshness and coolness in its waters.

You could plan a cruise or boating experience in these waters where you could organise a business event, a celebration party, a proposal or simply a romantic date. 

2. Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is a tiny paradise of Lucerne in Switzerland that is considered to be the greatest hiking destination. It is composed of many beautiful peaks out of which Tomlishorn is the highest. Once you have reached Mount Pilatus and you look down, the most amazing sight awaits you- Lake Lucerne nestled right into the Swiss Alps! 

3. Mount Titlis

Out of thousands of heart swinging tourist attractions in Switzerland, Mount Titlis stands out as one of the highest alpine hill-stations situated between the cantons of Obwalden and Bern. To reach the summit of Titlis, you have to cross four stops, Gerschnialp, Trubsee, Stand, and Klein Titlis.

These four places themselves are home to the alluring environment and have many places where you can sit back and relax or participate in the fun-packed adventure. As you reach atop, you will be welcomed by snow-swept mountains and bewitching beauty of the hill-station which makes it a perfect holiday destination for a reviving experience.

4. Mount Rigi

Mountain peaks surround the stunning landscape of Lucerne, amongst them is the most popular the "queen of the mountains," Mount Rigi. It sits atop three lakes, namely, Zug, Lucerne, and Lauerz. At the height of 1797.5, the panoramic views of the Swiss town are enchanting.

You can take a cog train ride to tour near the mountain on a clear day. Besides the train visitors can also get there on a cable car or a gondola. Moreover, there are hikes organized during summers and sports activities like skiing, snowboarding, etc. take place during winters at Mount Rigi.

That being said, Mount Rigi is a place that wouldn't disappoint you no matter when you visit. With the vivid scenery and the delightful atmosphere, Mount Rigi is one of the places to visit in Lucerne.

5. Chapel Bridge

The most famous attraction in Lucerne, the Chapel Bridge is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe, having been built in 1333.

This Chapel Bridge running across the river Reuss is 204m long. At about halfway along the bridge stands the octagonal Wassertum, or the water tower, which has stood strong since the 13th century. Inside the wooden covering of the bridge is artwork from the 17th century, displaying various landmark events from Lucerne's history. A major part of the bridge, however, had to be rebuilt after it caught fire in 1993.

6. Old Town

The Old Town, located just North of the Reuss, is a beautiful part of the city which still preserves some it's oldest structures, houses and fountains. The old town makes for a wonderful day out for a walk, exploring the city and admiring the architectural brilliance. It has several structures from the 14th century, painted in bright colours and made with timber frames. The Old Town is also home to St. Peter's Chapel, the oldest church in Lucerne. 

What to Do in Lucerne

Tour the Old Town

Like all European countries, there is a preserved Old Town area in Lucerne as well, which has beautifully decorated heritage buildings, some of which date back to the Middle Ages. Take a walk in the narrow pathways, indulge in some delicious food in the many restaurants you will pass by and do a spot of shopping for souvenirs - that would be a few hours well spent!

Go Hiking

Breathing in that fresh mountain air is definitely good for the soul! There are several hills close to Lucerne where you can hike; like Mount Titlis, Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus. Depending on your fitness level, you can choose a path that best suits you as there are multiple options in each.

Boat Trips

One of the best beauties of Lucerne is Lake Lucerne from where you can get stunning views of the Alps. There are several boat excursions that you can do on Lucerne Lake - From one-hour tourist hops to half-day excursions, choose what best fits your interest, budget and the time you have in your hands. There are also boat trips to Mount Pilatus, the town of Flüelen and more.

Ride the Cogwheel Train

A must-do while in Lucerne is a cogwheel train ride! It is a unique experience with stunning views! If you travel to Mount Pilatus, via the cogwheel railway - you will be experiencing the world's steepest track, which you will agree, is pretty awesome! Similarly, the railway route to Mount Rigi is also quite splendid. Though not as steep as Mount Pilatus, the Rigi track was Europe's 1st cog railway!

Shopping In Lucerne

There’s something about shopping in Switzerland that holds a special allure rarely found elsewhere. From its delectable chocolates to precise clocks and watches, Switzerland is a buzzing shopping hub. And on account of being a pocket-sized version of Switzerland, Lucerne is no different. The city has its share of exclusive haute couture boutiques, chocolatiers and gift shops that will cater to your every whim and fancy.

But the one thing that is more famous than Swiss chocolates are Swiss watches. Some of these timepieces are veritable works of art, with prices to match. One such exclusive name is the house of Chronoswiss. Here you can not only purchase a fine Swiss timepiece, but also watch one being made behind glass panes. You can even have your watch assembled before your own eyes!

One of the best places to shop in Lucerne is the Old Town. You will find a motley collection of antiques, clothes and shoes being sold in small specialty shops. For a more contemporary shopping experience, head to Pilatrusstrasse located in the newer part of Lucerne. Chocolates, souvenirs and watches are the most popular shopping items in Lucerne. However, do note that most shops are closed on Sundays. So, do not leave your shopping for the last day. Shop whenever you get the chance and you will have some lovely souvenirs to carry back home.

Cuisine of Lucerne

A culture’s cuisine and eating habits are perhaps the best mirrors of its beliefs and traditions. Lucerne is a foodie haven that will cater to your appetites through an evolved culinary culture with a global twist. From the trendiest haute restaurants to old, well-loved taverns, Lucerne will spoil you for choice when it comes to eating out.

The Wirtshaus Galliker is a family-run tavern that has been around for more than a century. It is loved for its food as well as its warm familiarity that welcomes you as you step in. Try their most popular dish Luzerner Chügelipastete, a crunchy shell filled with veal and a creamy mushroom sauce. If you have hankering for Italian, Valentino is the place to go for an authentic Italian experience.

For a budget meal, there’s no better place than the La Cucina with its reasonable prices and a lunch menu that rotates weekly. Brassiere Bodu will charm you with its French fare served amidst a bistro-styled theme and vintage wallpapers. Rathaus Brauerei is the perfect place to satiate your Alpine cravings. They brew their own drinks and offer familiar favourites like Älplermafronen mid Apfelnus (mac and cheese served with apple sauce), rabbit fillet with oyster mushrooms and the Luzerner Käsekuchen (savoury cheese cake).

Best Time to Visit

Lucerne is a year-round destination that offers different experiences based on the season. But June to September is the peak season and the best time to be in Lucerne. With a pleasant weather cooled by the Alps, you can enjoy the city to its fullest with long treks, bike tours and music festivals. Winter, between October to May, is the low season. But the winter snow announces the start of skiing season. This is also the best time to go to Lucerne for some excellent travel deals.

How to Reach Lucerne

Plane

Lucerne doesn't have its own international airport, but Zurich Airport has connections to North America and is around an hour away by road or 45 minutes by train. You could also fly into Geneva, which is around two hours' drive away.

Train

Most travelers arrive at Lucerne's main station, which has a striking design by superstar architect Santiago Calatrava. The city has excellent connections with other Swiss cities like Geneva, Zurich, or Bern and to northern Italy via the Gotthard railway. It's also centrally located, so finding your accommodation won't be hard.

Car

If you are driving from Zurich, take the A4 before switching to the A14 at Zug. From Geneva, the best route is to take the A1 to Bern, the A6 to Thun, then the A8 straight into Lucerne. Those driving from the Italian border just need to follow the A2 directly to their destination.