Episode 132: What To See And Do In Lucerne, Switzerland (Including A Hidden Gem!)

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Don’t leave your sightseeing in Lucerne, Switzerland to chance!  Join me in this episode as my guest, Céline Deplazes takes us on a Lucerne city tour.  

Céline shares some of the top things to do in Lucerne which include visiting the Chapel Bridge, Water Tower, Old Town and the Lion Monument, and she tells us why a cruise on Lake Lucerne is a great idea.

There are plenty of interesting stories shared, too.  You’ll learn why many of the buildings in Lucerne’s Old Town have painted facades, where to enjoy the local specialty, Lucerne puff pastry, and which restaurant pipes its beer directly from a local brewery!

As well as the most popular attractions, there are some hidden gems that Céline recommends you add to your must-see in Lucerne list, too.  You’ll discover what they are and how to get there, in this episode.

Tune in to discover what to see and do in Lucerne, Switzerland even if you’re short on time. 

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Show Notes

In this episode Céline takes us on a walking tour of Lucerne to see some of the top attractions in Lucerne and a hidden gem or two, including:

• Chapel Bridge, Water Tower and Jesuit Church
• The Old Town with its frescoed buildings
• Musegg Wall for wonderful views

Our Guest

Lucerne sites and attractions mentioned in this episode

>> Chapel Bridge and Water Tower – The Chapel Bridge is a picturesque covered wooden footbridge dating back to the 14th century. Spanning the Reuss River, it is one of Europe’s oldest surviving truss bridges. Beside it stands the octagonal Water Tower. Together, they form one of Switzerland’s most iconic and most-photographed landmarks.

>> Jesuit Church – a stunning example of Baroque architecture, the Jesuit Church was the first large Baroque church built north of the Alps. Completed in the late 17th century, its ornate interior and twin onion-domed towers make it a prominent feature along the Reuss River.

>> Reussbrücke – the oldest bridge in Lucerne, the Reussbrücke connects both sides of Lucerne’s Old Town. It not only serves as a crossing point, but also offers beautiful views of the Chapel Bridge and the riverfront.

>> Old Town – Lucerne’s Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, colourful frescoed buildings, and bustling squares. It’s a beautifully preserved area where medieval architecture blends seamlessly with shops, cafés, and hotels.

>> Musegg Wall – the Musegg Wall is a well-preserved section of Lucerne’s old city fortifications, built in the 14th century. Four of its nine towers are open to visitors (1 April to 1 November), offering a chance to climb up and enjoy sweeping views of the city, Lake Lucerne, and the surrounding mountains.

>> Kulturhof Hintermusegg – this small urban farm is located just behind Musegg Wall. Visitors can meet farm animals, learn about sustainable agriculture, and enjoy local produce, making it a peaceful and family-friendly escape just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town.

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