Lucerne, with its idyllic location nestled amidst the Alps and overlooking Lake Lucerne, is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque towns. Also known as Luzern, the main language is Swiss German however everyone speaks excellent English.
Famed for its iconic wooden covered bridge, there are lots of things to do in Lucerne. Read on to find out what to see in Lucerne in 2 days or more with our travel tips.
What to See in Lucerne, Switzerland
We recommend starting in Lucerne Old Town where there are lots of interesting attractions. Wandering around the medieval squares, it’s easy to see why this is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland.
1. Kapellbrucke – Chapel Bridge
If you’re wondering what to see in Lucerne, then look no further than the iconic Kapellbrucke, aka Chapel Bridge. This iconic Lucerne landmark is equally beautiful in the daytime or at night.
The 34 metre high Water Tower adjoins the bridge and dates from around 1300. At one point it was a prison and torture chamber – today it’s Switzerland’s most photographed monument. Constructed in the 14th century, its painted panels were added in the 17th century.
2. Lucerne Old Town
The neighbouring Old Town has some very attractive squares and buildings decorated with frescoes. Whether you have just 24 hours in Lucerne or more, this area is not to be missed.
Many visitors don’t realize that there’s a second covered wooden bridge in the centre, Spreuer Bridge. It’s the oldest timber bridge in Switzerland and dates from 1408. It features a Dance Macabre or Dance with Death added in the 17th century.
The city’s medieval fortifications, Mussegg Wall, comprise nine towers. Four of them are open to the public from April to November.
3. KKL Luzern
Lucerne is blessed with some fantastic museums and it’s well worth purchasing the Lucerne Museum Card. At CHF 36 per person it covers all the major museums. KKL Luzern is a new concert hall and contemporary art museum designed by famous French architect Jean Nouvel.
4. The Rosengart Collection
If you’re a fan of Picasso and Paul Klee then you’ll love the Rosengart Collection. It’s one of the best things to do in Lucerne for art lovers. There are some really impressive paintings by both artists and also features works by Chagall, Monet, Bonnard and Matisse.
5. Bourbaki Panorama
One of the most fascinating Lucerne attractions is the Bourbaki Panorama, an enormous painting created in 1871 by Edouard Castres. He had experienced the French-German war of 1870-1871 as a Red Cross volunteer and this round tableau is surprisingly lifelike. In recent years props such as people and drums have been added in front of the painting, making it even more realistic.
6. Gletschergarten
The Gletschergarten or Glacier Garden is close by, and great fun for children or big children like us. This natural monument was discovered in 1872 by a workman and proves that Lucerne was covered by glaciers during the Ice Age.
There’s an Alhambra Mirror Maze that is great fun to wander around. Inside the maze and outside the building, there are distorting mirrors to try out.
7. Lucerne Lion Monument
Outside the Glacier Museum you’ll find the impressive Lion Monument. This famous Swiss monument was described by Mark Twain as “the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world”.
It depicts a dying lion who symbolises the bravery of Swiss soldiers in 1792. They died whilst protecting the Tuileries Palace in Paris during the French Revolution.
8. Jesuit Church
Standing directly opposite Chapel Bridge, on the banks of the river Reuss, Lucerne Jesuit Church is a Baroque masterpiece. The church was consecrated in 1677 and the iconic onion towers were added in 1893.
Inspired by the Church of the Gesu in Rome, this was the first important sacred building constructed in the baroque style in Switzerland. The church is open from 6.30 am to 6.30 pm every day apart from Mondays and Thursdays when it opens at 9.30 am.
9. Lucerne Transport Museum
We’ve saved one of the best attractions in Lucerne until last. The Transport Museum or Verkehrshaus der Schweiz might sound like rather a specialised interest but in fact it’s a must see, particularly if you’re with children.
They will love having a go in the road construction arena and on the flight simulators. Put on the Swiss slippers provided and step onto Swissarena, the world’s largest walkable aerial photo of a country.
The Transport Museum is located next to Lake Lucerne and it’s a lovely area for a stroll afterwards. If you only have one day or 36 hours in Lucerne then we’d advise on skipping some of the museums if the weather is good and walking around the lake instead.
Lucerne Restaurants
If you’re wondering where to eat in Lucerne, take the world’s shortest funicular up to the Montana Hotel. For a taste of luxury and fantastic views towards Lake Lucerne, their Art Deco Scala restaurant holds 15 Gault-Millau points. You’ll pass the Swiss Hospitality School on the way up in the funicular.
Mill’feuille is popular with locals for its unfussy dishes. Try the Fritschi-Pastete, puff pastry filled with a meat and creamy mushroom sauce.
The Old Swiss House is conveniently located next to the Bourbaki Panorama and close to the Lion Monument and Glacier Museum. Still owned by the same family, it’s famous for its pan fried escalope prepared at the table.
Where to Stay in Lucerne
There are some stunning hotels in the city centre and the surrounding area. One of the most luxurious places to stay in Lucerne is Château Gütsch. This small boutique hotel has been lovingly restored to its former glory.
With panoramic views towards the town and the lake, its reachable by its very own cable lift and by road.
Getting to Lucerne
This charming city is easily accessible via Zurich airport and from there it’s a 45 minute train ride or drive to the centre. Whether you have a weekend, 36 hours in Lucerne or more, it’s a magical place that everyone should visit at least once.
With a little more time, you’ll be able to visit majestic Mount Pilatus and the surrounding area or head further afield to Lugano near the Italian border.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our Lucerne blog post. Have you ever spent a weekend in Lucerne? What was your favourite sight if so? The city is without doubt one of the must sees in Switzerland.
Read all our Switzerland travel blogs.
You might also enjoy:
- Fun Things to Do in Gstaad
- Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland
- The Best City Destinations with Travel Companions
- What to Do in Geneva
- What to See in Lugano
- What to See in Verbier
- Zurich Street Food Festival
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The architecture looks really cool
Beauty Candy Loves
It’s stunning, Candice, I’m sure you’d love it
It looks like a fairytale!
Yes it does have that fairytale element with the frescoes and wooden bridges!
I’ve been twice now and I’m already planning what I’d do if I had a third trip!
Wow you fitted loads in! It looks like an amazing place to visit.
We certainly did, Alison! We hardly stopped
I desperately need to revisit Switzerland – have only done a fleeting drive through visit on a past trip but this has confirmed it deserves more!
For a small country, there’s lots to see – I’m lucky to be returning next week but to Montreux
I really didn’t know much about Lucerne before reading this post. It looks like such a picturesque place and I love the medieval architecture and vibe. Those mirrors are so cool too, great photos!
http://www.mintnotion.com
There were also mirrors that make you look fatter or taller, they were great fun!
Cool recap. I always love your shots!!!
Kisses, Paola.
Expressyourself
My Facebook
That’s very kind Paola, it was a bit cloudy when we visited but that made for some atmospheric shots!
Everything about Lucerne is so picturesque and they certainly serve up some tasty food!
This post brings back so many memories! Can’t believe it’s only been six months since I went there. And there are so many things that I didn’t see. Guess I have to go back one day!
www.luxessed.com
I feel the same, would have loved to get up to Mount Pilatus!
Lucerne looks beautiful and well worth a visit to see those gorgeous fairytale buildings and intricate frescoes.
The frescoes are stunning, I wish we had some like those in London!
Such a fantastic guide, Suze 🙂 The colourful illustrations stretching up the building look beautiful and those Swiss slippers are ever so sweet!
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice
x
The Swiss slippers were very cute if a bit huge on me!
Love the pictures!
Dora www.BangsBang.com
Thanks Dora
So charming and picturesque! I would love to see the museums and try the food! Fantastic photos
Http://leftbankgirl.blogspot.com
It really is a charming place to visit, I hope that you get the chance
Looks like a wonderful place to visit, you look great with the red beanie!
http://beautyfollower.blogspot.gr/2016/03/street-fashion-dots-stripes.html
Oh thank you, I always like a pop of red in Winter!
Such a pretty city! Thanks for sharing these must-see’s!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
You’re very welcome, Ashley – I’d recommend a visit!
I like the look of Château Gütsch and all the interesting places in Lucerne. Definitely need one of those Swiss slippers 😉
Ha ha, those slippers are fab aren’t they! Thanks for stopping by, Miriam
I went to Lucerne when I was a young kid. All these stunning photos make me want to return soon!
xx Yasmin
http://banglesandbungalows.com
I hadn’t been since I got engaged, the place is so lovely and I hope you do get to return soon, Yasmin
wow it looks so lovely there, I would love to go
xo
www.laurajaneatelier.com
It’s a very picturesque place and with so much history, you’d love it Laura
These posts are always so handy because more often than not, it is just a short trip and you want to make the most of it. Fab tip offs lovely!
Elle
www.theellenextdoor.com
xx
My pleasure Elle, if it can save someone time then I’m very happy!
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