Episode 180: What to Do in Lucerne: Two Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

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Is Lucerne one of the destinations you’ll visit on your trip to Switzerland? If you’re short on time and are wondering what to do in Lucerne in just a couple of days, this episode is for you!

I’m joined by local expert Sabine Föhn who shares her insider tips for how to spend 2 days in Lucerne. 

Whether you want to stroll across the iconic Old Town Lucerne bridges, relax on a scenic Lake Lucerne cruise, taste location specialties at one of the many restaurants in Lucerne, or marvel at breathtaking views from a mountain summit, tune in to learn the best things to do in Lucerne for the perfect Lucerne 2 day itinerary.

We cover the highlights of an excursion to both Mt Pilatus and Mount Rigi, including how to fit them into your Lucerne 2 days itinerary no matter when you visit. 

Plus, you’ll hear about the variety of Lake Lucerne cruise options – like the unique Legends of Lake Lucerne experience, and other cruises available all year round.

Sabine also introduces us to the brand new Lucerne Travel Pass, which offers incredible value and includes public transportation, mountain excursions, and lake cruises – making it even easier to enjoy all the top things to do in Lucerne without spending a fortune.

And if you’re unsure about the best time to visit Lucerne, Switzerland, you’ll also learn what makes each season special, so you can choose the perfect time for your adventure.

Tune in for expert advice, itinerary inspiration, and essential tips for making your two days in Lucerne absolutely unforgettable!

Show Notes

In this episode you’ll learn about:

• How to make the most of two days in Lucerne, including must-see sights and mountain excursions
• The best times of year to visit Lucerne and why spring or autumn might be perfect for your trip
• Sabine’s suggestions for unforgettable lake cruises and the unique Legends of Lake Lucerne experience
• Options for indoor activities, museums, and nearby excursions – great for rainy days or longer stays
• Where to find authentic Swiss cuisine in Lucerne, including Sabine’s favorite local restaurants
• Tips on choosing the right travel pass, including details about the new Lucerne Travel Pass and what it includes

Our Guest

Activities and excursions mentioned in this episode

>> Legends of Lake Lucerne cruise – A 5-hour premium culinary cruise on Lake Lucerne. The experience includes a five-course menu prepared using regional ingredients, enjoyed whilst you hear fascinating stories of the region. The cruise, aboard the Paddle Steamer Gallia, is limited to just 65 guests and operates daily except Mondays from 15 May to 15 September. More info here >>

>> Mt. Pilatus excursion – A visit to Mt. Pilatus from Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s classic mountain excursions, offering breathtaking views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. In summer, the popular “Golden Round Trip” combines a lake cruise, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad, and a panoramic gondola and cable car descent to Kriens. Outside the cogwheel railway’s operating season (typically late autumn to spring), access is via gondola and cable car from Kriens, with optional bus connections from Lucerne. More info here >>

>> Mt. Rigi excursion – A visit to Mt. Rigi from Lucerne is a scenic and flexible excursion. The classic route includes a boat cruise across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau, followed by Europe’s oldest cogwheel railway to the summit. Alternatively, travellers can take a train to Arth-Goldau and ascend by cogwheel railway, or use cable cars from Weggis or Kräbel. These options operate year-round (with occasional maintenance closures). More info here >>

>> Lucerne Old Town – Lucerne’s Old Town is filled with cobblestone streets, colourful frescoed buildings, and historic squares. Highlights include the iconic Chapel Bridge, the Water Tower, and the well-preserved Musegg Wall with its medieval towers. Quaint shops, cafés, and local markets add to the lively atmosphere, making it perfect for a relaxed wander. Set along the Reuss River, the Old Town beautifully blends history, culture, and everyday Swiss charm. More info here >>

>> Swiss Transport Museum – Switzerland’s most visited museum offers an interesting and interactive look at the history of transport and mobility. Exhibits cover trains, planes, automobiles, and even space travel, with hands-on displays that appeal to all ages. The museum complex also includes a planetarium, film theatre, and Swiss Chocolate Adventure, making it easy to spend several hours exploring. More info here >>

>> Other Lake Lucerne cruises – A fleet of modern vessels and beautifully restored paddle steamers operate regular services on Lake Lucerne, allowing travellers to hop on and off at various towns around the lake. Popular routes connect Lucerne with places like Weggis, Vitznau, Brunnen and Flüelen. Durations range from one to five hours. More info here >>

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> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.