This charming town sits on top of the magnificent Lake Lucerne, with the Swiss Alps in the background and the twinkle of cowbells providing the perfect soundtrack. The best things to do in Lucerne include must-see landmarks and stunning nature views of the picturesque town.
Breathe in the fresh mountain air, take in the beautiful scenery, and treat your taste buds to a sprinkling of sugary heaven as you dip in and out of authentic Swiss chocolate shops.
Lucerne might be small, but it’s full of diverse history and impressive architecture. From charming treasures such as Chapel Bridge and the ice-cool attractions of the Glacier Gardens to the impressive peaks of Mount Pilatus, Lucerne almost looks like your picture-postcard image of Switzerland.
Travel
Berner Oberland regional pass. With the pass we did not have to worry as the whole trip from Faulensee Am See to Lucerne (via Interlaken OST) to Bern and back to Faulensee Am See (via Spiez) was covered.
We did the round trip with a 7am start for a two-part train trip:
1. Faulensee to Interlaken OST and then Golden Pass Line train to Lucerne.
Travel time: 2 hours
2. Lucerne to Bern. One way ticket would cost in the region of 16CHF (US$18) p/p.
Travel time: 1 hour
*Prices are approximate only. For latest fare, ticket and schedule click here.
An memorable train journey through the Swiss Alps from Interlaken to Lucerne, via the Brunig Pass (at an altitude of over 1000 m, it connects the Bernese Oberland and Central Switzerland) and Lake Brienz, brings us into the heart of Switzerland. The scenery unfolds as we travel along in Swiss rail comfort, enjoying views of majestic mountains and tranquil lakes, framed by green rolling hills dotted with chalets and contented cows. You would not want to keep from staring through the windows the entire journey as each turn unveils a different scenery of unmatch beauty, that you will not notice the 2-hour train ride. Simply keep your eyes open, sip a coffee and enjoy!
Views from train
Itinerary
Lucerne Gate (Train Station) -> Chapel Bridge -> Lake Lucerne -> Lion Monument
-> Umbrella Tower -> Time Tower -> Musegg Wall -> Little Man Tower -> Spreuer Bridge -> Train Station
Lucerne Old Town - Canals and a Medieval Centre
Lucerne’s quintessential Old Town has a crystal-clear canal flowing from its medieval middle, and the peacefulness and compactness of the area ensure an easy wander. It features winding cobblestone streets, though, so you’ll need to pull on some comfortable shoes before exploring the area. Allow yourself to be drawn in by the hand-painted murals on the impressive 15th-century buildings and step inside the welcoming doors of architectural wonders, such as the Old Town Hall and St Peter’s Chapel.
We wandered in Lucerne for about 4 - 5 hours with a quick lunch stop, as all the must-see landmarks described below are very close to each other.
Around every corner, you’ll discover delightful dining options and quaint shops selling everything from dazzling jewellery to delicious Swiss chocolate – a treat so tasty you’ll waste no time in enjoying a mid-stroll snack. From beautiful fountains to uncovered bridges, the Old Town harbours a romantic essence within its narrow passageways.
The Jesuit Church, radiant in its beauty, recognisable from afar: situated next to the River Reuss, it is a treat for the eyes.
Construction of the church began in 1666, with the official inauguration being held in 1677. The Jesuit Church was modelled on the Church of the Gesù in Rome as the first major sacred building to be built in the baroque style in Switzerland. In terms of art, particularly worth noting are its baroque and rococo stucco, its high altar, and its organ and treasury. The imposing interior boasts a particularly fine acoustic, which is why the church now also serves as a concert venue; organists are also taught here.
Chapel Bridge
Chapel Bridge is Lucerne’s most famous landmark. Built initially as a way to link the Old Town on the north bank of the Reuss river to the new town perched on the south bank, Chapel Bridge is a one-of-a-kind wooden walkway serving as the symbol of Switzerland. It’s also Europe's oldest covered bridge and the world's oldest surviving truss bridge.
As you look out onto the town, steeped in spectacular architecture, make sure to also look up at the pristine paintings covering the ceiling. Telling a story of Lucerne’s rich history, and dating back to the 17th century, these murals were created by local artist Hans Heinrich Wägman and make crossing this wooden bridge a truly unique experience. Charmingly bedecked with vibrant flowers along its full extent, it is a premier attraction in the city.
Lake Lucerne - A Scenic Splendour
Lake Lucerne is a shimmering 38-km stretch of serenity and tranquillity. It's a picture of overwhelming beauty and the best-kept secret in the Swiss Alps. Share this cobalt blue pool with the local swans and enjoy stunning views of the alpine mountains stretching out into the distance.
Like something out of a fairy tale, the only way to appreciate the scenic splendour of this destination is to hop onto any of the several boat rides on the lake itself. Most boats depart from Lucerne, but you can board in other towns along the lake, even combining your trip with a visit to Mount Rigi or taking the hour-long round trip, from Lucerne to Meggen and back.
We gave the boat trip a miss this time round.
Lion Monument
The Lion Monument in Lucerne is spectacularly carved directly into the walls of a large sandstone quarry and tells a story of important Swiss history. Designed by Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen in 1820, the monument is a memorial to the Swiss soldiers who lost their lives during the French Revolution. Above the lion is an inscription that reads, “HELVETIORUM FIDEI AC VIRTUTI,” which translates as “To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss”.
Known as the saddest stone in the world, this historical piece of art is easy to find, sitting directly next door to the Glacier Gardens. Take a short walk from the centre of town for a meaningful look into the lion’s mournful eyes. You’ll find it difficult not to be moved by its tragic gaze.
Glacier Gardens of Lucerne
The Glacier Gardens of Lucerne is proof that the town was once covered by glaciers. Want to get to grips with this impressive corner of the ice age? It is next to the Lion Monument. This eclectic museum houses a stunning natural monument, complete with potholes of impressive proportions, alpine plants and a fish pond fed directly by the Gorner Glacier. It’s a great spot for a little rest and relaxation.
Once you’ve seriously gotten into the glaciers, for something a little extra, get lost inside the mirror maze – a room filled with 90 mirrors, inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Make your way around the bewildering twists and turns, then finish your visit with a climb up to the observation tower for sublime views over the city.
Spreuer Bridge
As well as the Chapel Bridge, Lucerne is home to another timber bridge of great
interest. Located slightly downstream of the Chapel Bridge, the Spreuer Bridge does not enjoy such a high profile. Though somewhat shorter and less dominant in appearance, in every other aspect it is its «big sister's» equal.
Catch a glimpse of the 5-star Château Gütsch on the mountain flank from the bridge.
Mühlenplatz
Mühlenplatz is a square in Lucerne’s Old Town that’s full of charm, character, and intrigue. As you set foot in Mühlenplatz which is next to Spreuer Bridge, one of the first things you’ll notice are the beautiful buildings showcasing highly decorative and colourful designs. Another delight of this charming square lies in its population. Never too crowded, you can enjoy a relaxing morning stroll, stop by the central fountain and take a quiet moment of reflection before wandering in and out of the many boutiques.
With cafés and restaurants spilling out onto the cobbled streets, this historic square
is a great place to grab a coffee and pull up a beautifully decorated chair as you watch the local life walk by. Make sure to dig into the tempting pastries and homemade granola at popular café and meeting point Mill'Feuille, where you can also catch a view of the scenic River Reuss.
Musegg Wall
The construction of a wall was typical to protect a city, a village or a community even in a non-conflictual time. Formerly built of wood, they were later higher, more solid and made of stone. Lucerne sheltered itself like the other villages. As part of this 14th-century wall, nine (9) of the thirty (30) towers still stand. They are not identical and it is possible to access four (4) of them and to walk on the wall over a narrow passage with new outlooks of the city.
We visited the 3 walls described below where we had some magnificent views.
Little Man Tower, it stands out at 33 meters (108ft) high. If you look closely, at the very top is a knight in armor with a flag and a sword in his hands. You have to climb the 125 steps to access the upper platform for a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
Time Tower, from its construction, the Zyt Tower did not have a defensive role but rather an informative part in displaying the time.
In the upper part of the 31-meter (101ft) high tower facing the old town is a huge clock face. On this same facade, in 1596, two giants were painted directly under the clock as if they were supporting it. It is the oldest clock in the city and has the honor and the right to strike one minute before any other clock to announce the hour.
Accessible to the public, the tower has also become a gallery gathering old historical clocks.
Umbrella Tower, with its passage, was a symbolic reference of the beginning and the end of the city and the countryside. 27.5 meters (90ft) high, you can climb its 96 steps to reach the wall. Notice the statue of the city’s patron saint, Saint Mauritius. The tower was also used as a botanical warehouse.
Other activities
There are other things which are popular but we gave them a miss. Activities like Mount Pilatus by gondola, Lake Lucerne boat ride or other landmarks like St. Leodegar parish, Swiss museum of transport.
On the way to...
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