Must-See Things to Do in Lucerne, Switzerland
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Looking for the best things to do in Lucerne Switzerland? This guide covers the most popular Lucerne attractions, the best day trips from Lucerne, how to get to Lucerne from nearby cities, and suggestions for the best hotels in Lucerne.
After reading this guide, you will have lots of ideas for what to do in Lucerne. If, however, you’d like a ready-made plan for your visit, read our one day in Lucerne itinerary or our two days in Lucerne itinerary.
Best Things to Do in Lucerne
Is Lucerne worth visiting? Yes, absolutely! It is well known for its amazing medieval architecture and its stunning location on the edge of Lake Lucerne amid snow-capped mountains. The city of Lucerne (Luzern in German) is a popular stop for most people visiting Switzerland.
Many people touring Switzerland spend at least a few days in Lucerne. Two to three days is plenty of time to explore all the main Lucerne attractions, make a day trip to a nearby village or mountain, and take time to slow down and soak up the atmosphere.
If you are staying for two days or more, it’s definitely worth considering purchasing the Lucerne Travel Pass. This all-in-one pass covers public transport, boat cruises, admission fees and mountain excursions in the area. Read more about the Lucerne Travel Pass here.
Is one day enough for Lucerne? Two days would be better, but you can certainly see a few of the highlights if you only have one day in Lucerne.
Below are some of the most popular attractions in Lucerne that I highly recommend you visit during your stay.
Lucerne Old Town
In terms of places to visit in Lucerne, most people start by spending a few hours strolling around the colourful Old Town (Altstadt in German).
The Old Town Lucerne is just beautiful with its ancient buildings and bridges, narrow cobblestone alleyways and gorgeous medieval squares.
Make sure you allow some time to wander, admiring the beautiful painted facades and oriel windows of the medieval buildings, particularly those around Weinmarkt, an attractive square.
As well as being a great spot to start your Lucerne sightseeing, the Old Town is also a good place to come for a little bit of shopping as the area is filled with shops, boutiques and cafes and it is also where you will find some of the best restaurants in Lucerne.
You will find all the famous Swiss products here such as watches, army knives and chocolates as well as a range of other souvenirs.
Lucerne’s Old Town is also home to a number of department stores and internationally known brands. A popular weekly market is held every Tuesday and Saturday morning, where you’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, bread, cheese and other local produce.
Chapel Bridge
One of the most popular things to see in Lucerne is the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke). Built in 1333 this medieval wooden footbridge crosses the Reuss River linking the Old Town with the right bank.
A fire in 1993 all but destroyed the famous wooden bridge in Lucerne, and even though it was rebuilt, fire damage can still be seen on the remaining 17th century pictorial panels which are a feature under the eaves.
The 34-metre high tower with the octagon roof beside the bridge is called the Water Tower, named due to its position, although it doesn’t actually store water.
This tower was built around 1300 as part of the city’s fortifications and has been used for a range of purposes including an archive, treasury and even a prison.
Taking your photograph by the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne is certainly among the top things to do. It is beautiful year round – adorned with colourful blooms in the warmer months and dusted with snow in the winter.
Spreuer Bridge
As well as the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, the Spreuer Bridge is another one of the places that should be on your Lucerne sightseeing list.
The Spreuer Bridge was finished in 1408 as part of the city’s fortification. Kaspar Meglinger added 67 paintings representing the “Dance of Death” between 1626 and 1635.
Unlike the Chapel Bridge, Lucerne’s Spreuer Bridge was spared from the 1993 fire, however its paintings are rather darker and more sombre, as you would expect of paintings representing death.
Jesuit Church
When it comes to what to see in Lucerne, do not miss the Jesuit Church. Situated on the southern bank of the River Reuss, you cannot help but notice the twin onion-domed towers of the Jesuit Church which dominate the skyline.
Built from 1666 to 1673 for the Jesuits, this church in Lucerne was the first large church in Switzerland to be built in the Baroque style.
While the exterior looks quite plain, the interior is a sight to behold. Richly decorated in white marble, the church features an outstanding painted ceiling and ornate faux marble side altars.
Be sure to add the Jesuit Church to your list of Lucerne places to visit.
Needle Dam
Lucerne’s Reuss Weir is one of the only remaining needle dams in the world.
Built in 1859, the series of thin strips of wood, called needles, are used to control the flow and water level in the river and to help prevent flooding.
In 1998, the latest technology was used to convert the dam to a hydroelectric power plant which produces 4.3 million kWh per year – enough to power 1,500 households in Lucerne!
Thanks to the dam, the water level of Lake Lucerne can now be maintained at an optimum height year round, no matter the weather conditions.
You can see the dam from the Spreuer Bridge.
Dying Lion Monument
Address: Denkmalstrasse
Another of the Lucerne top attractions is the dying Lion of Lucerne, one of the world’s most famous monuments.
The dying lion Lucerne monument was carved out of natural rock and is said to represent the heroic deaths of the Swiss mercenaries who were massacred while trying to protect Louis XVI at the Tuileries in France in 1792.
American author Mark Twain once described the Lion of Lucerne as the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world and to this day it still moves the thousands who visit each year.
Given the sheer size of the monument and the fact that it is carved out of rock, it’s no wonder a visit here is considered to be among the top 10 things to do in Lucerne.
Visit the Dying Lion early to avoid the crowds.
Bourbaki Panorama
Address: Lowenplatz 11
Commemorating the 87,000 French soldiers who fled to Switzerland during the winter of 1871, the Bourbaki Museum houses one of the world’s last surviving panoramas.
The huge circular mural is 112 metres long and 10 metres high and was painted by Édouard Castres. Visitors can view the panorama at their leisure while enjoying the sound effects and interpretive displays that help bring the scene to life.
The Bourbaki Museum is also home to a cinema, art gallery, café/bar and restaurant, making it a great place to spend a few hours.
Open daily:
April to October: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm
November to March: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm
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Glacier Garden
Address: Denkmalstrasse 4
The Glacier Garden, Lucerne, is a remarkably interesting natural attraction which was discovered in 1872.
The area was formed during the ice age, some 20,000 years ago and consists of polished glacier rock and a group of 32 potholes which were formed at the base of waterfalls of melting glacial ice.
Also at the Glacier Garden are fossils of shellfish and palm fronds which amazingly exist from more than 20 million years ago.
As well as the natural attractions at the Glacier Garden, there are a range of interactive exhibits explaining the impact of climate change, as well as a mirror maze and an observation tower (currently closed) where you have some great views across Lucerne and Mount Pilatus.
A visit to the Glacier Garden is certainly one of the more interesting things to do in Lucerne. It is located next to the Dying Lion Monument.
Swiss Museum of Transport
Address: Lidostrasse 5
If you are visiting Lucerne with kids, one of the top attractions is definitely the Swiss Museum of Transport . In fact, even visitors without children will be absolutely fascinated by this brilliant museum dedicated to Switzerland’s transport history.
The Swiss Museum of Transport is located just by the lake and is all about things that go! Here you will learn all about planes, trains and automobiles and loads more!
Static and interactive exhibits, simulators, the planetarium, film theatre and the popular Swiss chocolate adventure make it Switzerland’s most visited museum.
Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a discounted day pass and 20% discount for Lucerne Travel Pass holders.
> Pre-purchase your ticket to the Swiss Museum of Transport.
The Swiss Museum of Transport is also home to the Swiss Chocolate Adventure where you can learn about the history and manufacture of Swiss chocolate and even taste it!
Allow at least half a day here or even the entire day – there is so much to see here, and it is well worth it.
The Swiss Museum of Transport is certainly one of the most fun things to do in Lucerne and is open every day of the year.
> Pre-purchase your ticket to the Swiss Chocolate Adventure.
Musegg Wall
The northern section of Lucerne’s medieval fortifications, which consist of the 850-metre long Musegg Wall and its nine towers, are well preserved. Today, four towers and the Wall are open to the public to view the exhibitions and museums within.
Perfect for Lucerne sightseeing, the towers offer excellent views of the city and lake.
The towers are open from 1 April to 1 November each year.
Picasso & Rosengart Museums
Address: Pilatusstrasse 10
Another of Lucerne’s fascinating attractions is the Sammlung Rosengart (Rosengart Collection).
The museum showcases an outstanding collection of Modernist and Impressionist art, with more than 300 works by 23 artists from the 19th and 20th centuries. Across three floors, you’ll find masterpieces by Paul Klee, Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, Paul Cézanne, Marc Chagall and many other renowned artists.
Most of the collection is devoted to the works of Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso. The basement houses around 125 drawings, watercolours and paintings by Klee, while the ground floor is dedicated to Picasso’s works created between 1938 and 1969.
In addition to the artwork, the museum features a collection of around 200 photographs of Picasso, offering a fascinating glimpse into both his personal life and artistic career.
The museum offers a variety of guided tours for adults, families and school groups. Visitors can learn more about the artworks on display as well as the lives and stories of the artists who created them.
Lake Lucerne Cruises
One of the must-do activities in Lucerne is to take a cruise on Lake Lucerne. With its sparkling blue water and surrounding snow-capped peaks, Lake Lucerne is the postcard-perfect Swiss lake.
Known as Vierwaldstattersee in German, which translates to ‘four forest sites’, the lake is surrounded by four cantons – Uri, Schwyz, Unterwalden and Lucerne.
When it comes to choosing your cruise, there are a range of options to explore the 38 kilometre long lake. You can choose from five historic paddlewheel steamers, more than a dozen modern motorboats and a panoramic yachts, all offering lake cruises.
Some Lake Lucerne cruises offer delicious lunches or morning teas, while others are a more casual affair.
Tip: Many Lake Lucerne cruises are included with the Swiss Travel Pass
KKL
Address: Europaplatz 1
Just beside the Lucerne train station and on the shores of Lake Lucerne, the KKL (Culture and Convention Centre) is hard to miss. The modern glass building, designed by Parisian architect Jean Nouvel, features a cantilevered roof that overhangs the lake.
Opened in 1998, the KKL hosts the annual classical musical festival, the Lucerne Festival, thanks to its excellent acoustics. Its concert halls, theatres and conference centres also host numerous other events.
The Kunstmuseum (Art Museum) covers the top floors of the KKL building and houses a collection of both 18th- and early 20th-century Swiss paintings.
Hofkirche
Address: St. Leodegarstrasse
With distinctive twin towers, the Hofkirche (sometimes called the Church of St. Leodergar) was built during the 1630s, though its history dates back much further than that. A Benedictine monastery dating from the 8th century once stood on the site, followed by a medieval basilica but in the Roman style.
After this structure was struck by fire during the Thirty Years War that occurred in parts of Europe during the 17th century, it was replaced, with the newer building being completed in 1639.
Some parts of the original church were integrated into the 17th century design, including the two towers dating from 1525 and some medieval decorative features found inside. If you visit Lucerne and call into Hofkirche, look out for the sculpture telling the tale of the Agony in the Garden on the northern tower.
On the nave’s northern side, the Maria-End-Altar still remains, as this was salvaged when much of the church burnt down. It depicts the ailing Virgin Mary supported by the Apostles.
Only a handful of churches were built during the 1630s in this area to the north of the Alps, and Lucerne’s Hofkirche is one of them. Some of the late Renaissance style details dating from that time include the intricately carved choir stalls and pulpit, and the altar made from black marble.
Horkirche is often regarded as Switzerland’s premier example of a Renaissance church, and is thus quite rightly included on many lists of what to do in Lucerne, Switzerland.
During summer, you may catch an organ recital here. At any time of year, you can also see the final resting place of various members of prominent local families in the grounds.
Hofkirche is also worth a visit for its position. Atop a hill overlooking the historic Old Town in Lucerne, there are great views over the city from the site.
Richard Wagner Museum
Address: Richard Wagner-Weg 27
Exploring the museum dedicated to the German composer and conductor Richard Wagner is also one of the top things to do in Lucerne.
After being banished from his homeland by Ludwig II, Wagner settled in the Swiss city’s Tribschen district, and today the area is best known for the villa in which he resided with his wife and son during his exile.
The composer was forced to flee Germany due to his political interests and involvements, which included left wing concerns such as socialism and German nationalism. After this, he occupied the parkland home which today serves as the Richard Wagner museum for a number of years.
Both Götterdämmerung and Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg were composed while Wagner lived in Tribschen, and the museum contains original musical scores as well as correspondence, photographs, paintings and furniture dating from his residence.
Telling the story of Wagner’s time in Switzerland, the museum also houses the piano which was used to compose some of his most famous works.
Christmas in Lucerne
Visiting Lucerne during the festive season is one of the city’s most magical experiences. From Christmas markets to spectacular light displays, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Lucerne in winter.
Major winter events in Lucerne include:
Lucerne Christmas Markets – Lucerne is home to several Christmas markets during Advent, each with its own unique atmosphere. They’re the perfect place to shop for handmade gifts, sample traditional Swiss festive treats and soak up the Christmas spirit.
Live on Ice – Each winter, an open-air ice rink is set up at Europaplatz, beside the KKL Luzern. With festive lighting, food stalls and seasonal entertainment, it’s a popular place for locals and visitors alike. The ice rink typically operates from late November until early January. Entry is generally free, with skate hire available on site.
New Year’s Fireworks – Every 1 January, a spectacular fireworks display lights up Lucerne’s bay at around 8.15 pm. Many hotels offer special New Year’s dinners, and evening lake cruises provide a wonderful vantage point for the display.
Lilu Light Festival – Held annually over around 10 days in January, the Lilu Light Festival transforms Lucerne with impressive light installations and projections created by artists from around the world. Historic buildings, squares, alleyways and the lakeside are illuminated each evening, creating one of Switzerland’s most beautiful winter festivals. The festival usually runs from 6.00 pm to 10.00 pm, although dates vary each year.
Best Day Trips from Lucerne
In addition to all the wonderful Lucerne activities mentioned above, there are some brilliant day trips to be enjoyed from the city.
Below we have listed some of the more popular things to do near Lucerne, some of which are included with the regional Lucerne Travel Pass.
🇨🇭Read our guide to 14 best day trips from Lucerne here.
Mount Rigi
Take a cruise across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau and then take the cogwheel railway to the top of the mountain for 360 degree views across the Swiss Alps. On your return journey, we recommend you take the cable car down to Weggis and a cruise back to Lucerne.
Whilst the Classic Rigi Roundtrip mentioned above is a highlight on its own, why not include a visit to Rigi Kaltbad Thermal Spa to make your excursion even more memorable?
> Read our full guide to visiting Mt. Rigi.
Mount Titlis
At 3,000 metres high, Mt. Titlis offers some of the most stunning views you will enjoy across the Swiss Alps. There are numerous highlights of a day trip to Mt. Titlis including the revolving cable car, Glacier Cave and Cliff Walk. It’s even possible to enjoy snow activities such as sledding and snow tubing during the summer.
> Check Mount Titlis trip options.
> Read our full guide to visiting Mt. Titlis.
Mount Pilatus
The Golden Round Trip to Mt. Pilatus makes a wonderful excursion from Lucerne as you get to experience many modes of Swiss transport.
The roundtrip excursion includes travel by bus, cable car, cogwheel train (the steepest in the world) and boat.
There are a range of stations to stop on the way up, each with different attractions including an adventure playground, rope activity park, sledding, walking trails and restaurants.
> Check Mt Pilatus trip options.
> Read our full guide on How to Visit Mt. Pilatus.
🇨🇭 Not sure whether to visit Mt. Titlis, Mt. Pilatus or Mt. Rigi? Read about which makes the best day trip from Lucerne.
Jungfraujoch
Although it is located closer to Interlaken it is definitely possible to visit Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe – as a day trip from Lucerne.
Once you’ve arrived in Interlaken, we recommend travelling to Jungfraujoch on the Eiger Express from Grindelwald and then returning on the cogwheel train via Lauterbrunnen.
Depending on the time of year, attractions here include the Snow Fun Park, Ice Palace, and the Sphinx Observation Terrace.
> Check Jungfraujoch tour options.
> Read our full guide on how to visit Jungfraujoch
You also might consider visiting Mount Burgenstock as a day trip from Lucerne.
How to Get to Lucerne
Where is Lucerne? Situated on Lake Lucerne and surrounded by a mountainous landscape, the city of Lucerne is in central Switzerland. Excellent road and rail connections throughout Switzerland make Lucerne easily accessible from all parts of the country and beyond.
Only an hour or so from both the Swiss capital, Bern, and Zurich, it is easy to enjoy a day trip to Lucerne if you only have limited time.
Below is a brief overview of travel times from some of the popular routes to Lucerne:
- From Zurich to Lucerne: 50 minutes by train (1/2 hourly services), 55 minutes by bus, 1 hour by car.
- From Basel to Lucerne: 1.25 hours by train, 2 hours by bus or 1 hour by car.
- From Interlaken to Lucerne: 2 hours by train, 1.25 hours by bus or 1 hour by car.
- From Geneva to Lucerne: 3 hours by train, almost 6 hours by bus or 3.75 hours by car.
- From Bern to Lucerne: 1 hour by train or car and 2.25 hours by bus.
- From Paris to Lucerne: 4.5 hours by train, 6.25 hours by car.
You can also join an organised day tour to Lucerne from Zurich.
🇨🇭 If you plan to drive to Lucerne, our driving in Switzerland guide will be helpful.
Where to Stay in Lucerne
In addition to more than 70 hotels, ranging from luxury 5-star properties to budget-friendly options, Lucerne also has an excellent selection of apartments and serviced accommodation.
Below you’ll find a selection of highly rated properties.
Hotels in Lucerne
5* – Hotel Schweizerhof
The 5-star Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern enjoys a prime lakeside location, just a short walk from Lucerne’s Old Town and railway station. Its elegant rooms are individually decorated and feature air conditioning, a coffee and tea maker, a desk and satellite TV.
The hotel offers several restaurants and bars, together with a wellness area, fitness centre and spa facilities.
Check current prices for Hotel Schweizerhof.
4* – Hotel des Balances
Overlooking the River Reuss in the heart of Lucerne’s Old Town, Hotel des Balances enjoys one of the city’s most picturesque locations. Many rooms offer views of the Chapel Bridge, Jesuit Church and the surrounding historic streets.
Stylish rooms feature modern amenities including free WiFi, while the hotel also boasts a highly regarded restaurant with a riverside terrace and a popular lounge bar.
Check current prices for Hotel des Balances.
3* – Hotel Anker
Set in a beautifully restored historic building close to Lucerne’s Old Town, Hotel Anker Luzern offers stylish, individually decorated rooms with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.
Some rooms enjoy views towards Mount Pilatus. The hotel also has a popular restaurant and bar serving Swiss and international cuisine.
Check current prices for Hotel Anker.
🇨🇭 Read our comprehensive guide to 12 of the best hotels in Lucerne here.
Apartments in Lucerne
HITrental Chapel Bridge Apartments
Just 200 metres from the Chapel Bridge and right in the heart of the Old Town, HITrental Chapel Bridge Apartments offer travellers a cosy home away from home.
Featuring a kitchenette equipped with a toaster and refrigerator, linen and towels, and free WiFi, the property offers both 1- and 2-bedroom apartments as well as studio apartments. A shared laundry is available for guest use.
Check current prices for HITrental Chapel Bridge Apartments.
Offering both studio and 1-bedroom apartments, this property is located in the Old Town and close to all main attractions. Rooms feature a fully-equipped kitchenette, flatscreen TV and free WiFi. A communal laundry is available for guest use.
Check current prices for HITrental Old Town Apartments.
Things to do in Lucerne Switzerland | Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are enough things to do in Luzern to keep you busy for a week, but even if you can only spend a day or two, you’ll have time to explore the main attractions.
Whether you come to experience the medieval charm of Lucerne’s Old Town and the Chapel Bridge, to enjoy one of the many mountain excursions, or to admire the picturesque surroundings of the city, you won’t have any trouble finding things to do in Lucerne.
Remember, if you purchase the Lucerne Travel Pass, most of the popular things to do in Lucerne, and local transport, are covered so you can make substantial savings.
However long you spend in Lucerne, we know you’ll fall in love with this beautiful city.
🇨🇭Be sure to read our Lucerne Travel Guide and listen to our podcast episodes Things to do in Lucerne: The City, The Lake, The Mountains and Best day trips from Lucerne.
Listen to our Things to Do in Lucerne podcast episodes
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