Episode 153: A Local’s Guide to Authentic and Typically Swiss Things to do in Lucerne
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If Lucerne is on your Swiss itinerary, you’re probably planning to see iconic sights like Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. But what if you could go deeper, beyond the tourist trail and connect with authentic Swiss culture through immersive, hands-on experiences?
In this episode, we’re joined by Céline Deplazes from the Lucerne Tourism Board to explore some of the most unique and memorable things to do in the region.
From artisan Swiss cheese making in the mountain village of Marbach to creating your own bar of Swiss chocolate just minutes from the city center, Céline introduces us to unforgettable ways to experience Swiss traditions firsthand.
We also dive into outdoor adventures like a scenic Mount Pilatus hike, relaxing lakeside bike tours, and authentic Swiss barbecues with jaw-dropping alpine views. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or planning a family-friendly trip to Switzerland, this episode is full of inspiration.
Céline also shares practical tips for getting around by public transport, supporting sustainable tourism, and discovering hidden gems in rural Switzerland. If you’re looking for culturally rich things to do in Lucerne, or want to combine leisure with learning, don’t miss this insider’s guide to Lucerne travel at its most authentic.
Show Notes
In this episode you’ll learn about:
- Unique and authentic Swiss experiences you can have in and around Lucerne, beyond the famous sights like the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument
- How to visit and what to expect at the Bergkäserei Marbach cheese dairy, including cheese tasting and learning about buffalo milk production
- Where to create and decorate your own chocolate bar at Aeschbach Chocolatier, and why it’s a great alternative to more commercial chocolate experiences
- The traditional art of glassblowing at Glasi Hergiswil and the hands-on activities available for families
- How to explore Lucerne’s local neighborhoods and scenic spots on a cargo e-bike tour with Loop Tours Lucerne
- What’s involved in a typical Swiss barbecue hike on Mount Pilatus and how you can join this scenic and tasty experience
Our Guest
Céline Deplazes grew up in the country side by Lake Lucerne. After spending time in New York and Zurich, she moved to Lucerne five years ago.
She loves living in Lucerne as it offers the best of both worlds – the city and the mountains.
Céline is a Market Manager for Lucerne Tourism.
Local experiences mentioned in this episode
>> Bergkäserei Marbach – a traditional alpine cheese dairy in the Entlebuch region, where visitors can watch cheesemakers at work and learn about the craft of Swiss cheese production. From Lucerne, you can travel by train to Escholzmatt and then take a bus to Bergkäserei Marbach.
>> Milchmanufaktur Einsiedeln – a modern dairy near the famous Einsiedeln Abbey, which showcases the art of milk processing and cheese production. Einsiedeln can be reached by train from Lucerne in around 80 minutes.
>> Aeschbach Chocolatier – is an interactive “ChocoWorld” experience located in Root, which includes hands-on activities, chocolate tasting, and the chance to create your own treats. The factory is situated right beside the train station in Root (station name Root D4), which is an 11-minute journey from Lucerne.
>> Glasi Hergiswil – this historic glassworks has been handcrafting glass since 1817. Visitors can tour the workshops, watch glassblowers shape molten glass, and explore a fascinating museum about glassmaking. The glassworks are located in Hergiswil (station name Hergiswil NW), a 12-minute train journey from Lucerne.
>> Loop Tours Lucerne – offers guided cargo e-bike tours around Lake Lucerne. The tours combine sightseeing with local experiences, taking riders through the city, along Lake Lucerne, and into the nearby countryside.
>> Swiss hike and BBQ on Mt. Pilatus – Luzern Tourism offer visitors the chance to experience a guided hike on Mt. Pilatus followed by a traditional Swiss BBQ lunch. Public tours are offered twice a week and private tours are available every day. The tours operate during summer only.
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Useful resources
The Lucerne Tourism website has more information about each of the local experiences mentioned in this episode.
💻 Read more about Lucerne in these articles:
🎙️ Listen to more podcast episodes about Lucerne:
- Episode 57: Things to do in Lucerne
- Episode 105: The best day trips from Lucerne
- Episode 113: Loop Tours Lucerne
🎥 Watch our guided walking tour of Lucerne’s hidden gems.
✅ Quote our exclusive promo code HTSWISS to get 15% off your private tour of Lucerne with Loop Tours. Book online or by email.
👉 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit and Guide
> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.
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