The first thing to do in Lucerne is to put on a very comfortable pair of shoes. And this is not a joke. Lucerne (Luzern in German) sits right in the heart of Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by mountains. It looks like a postcard, it is perfect for a long weekend, and the best way to explore it is on foot.
How to Spend Your Long Weekend in Lucerne
The Chapel Bridge
Right in the heart of the city stands the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), the pride of Lucerne. Built in the 14th century as part of the city’s fortifications, it is often called the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe. Under its roof, you will find painted panels from the 17th century showing scenes from the history of Lucerne. The bridge also has a sad story: in 1993, a fire destroyed a large part of it and many of its paintings. It was rebuilt within a year, and your local guide will be happy to tell you all the details. During your weekend in Lucerne, a walk across the bridge is simply a must.
The Lion Monument
Apart from the charming Old Town and the Chapel Bridge, one more sight is famous worldwide: the Lion Monument. It commemorates the Swiss Guards who served at the Tuileries Palace in Paris during the French Revolution. The famous lion is carved into the rock face of a former sandstone quarry, above a small pond that reflects it. Mark Twain called it “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world,” and when you stand in front of it, it’s easy to see why.
The Musegg Wall and Towers
If you love history and want to soak up the medieval atmosphere, don’t skip the Musegg Wall. This city wall was built in the late 14th century to protect Lucerne, and nine of its towers still stand today. Four of them are open to visitors from spring to autumn, and from the top, you get a breathtaking view over the city, the lake, and the mountains.
Mount Pilatus
If you love the mountains, set aside a whole day for Mount Pilatus. From May to November, you can take a boat across the lake to Alpnachstad and ride up the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, or go up by cable car from Kriens most of the year, so the trip itself is part of the fun. At the top, you can hike, enjoy the views, or simply relax on a terrace, and further down the mountain, a rope park is waiting for adventure lovers. You can find all the details on the official website of Mount Pilatus.
Local Cuisine
After a long day of walking, finding a great place for dinner is a matter of honor. One lovely option is Restaurant Lapin, in the Hotel de la Paix near the Old Town. In its cozy dining room, the friendly staff will help you choose the right wine for your dish.
Wherever you eat, look out for the local specialty, Luzerner Chügelipastete (also known as Fritschipastete), a puff pastry filled with veal and mushrooms in a creamy sauce. And as the Old Town restaurants fill up quickly in the evening, especially in summer, booking a table in advance is always a good idea.
Tips for Your Trip
When Is the Best Time to Visit Lucerne?
Lucerne is one of the most popular cities in Switzerland, and it welcomes visitors all year round. From June to August, the weather is at its best, but you can expect crowds. If you prefer a quieter trip, plan it for late September or October: the weather is usually still pleasant, and most people have already had their vacation. And if you love skiing, winter is a great choice, as there are excellent ski areas nearby.
How to Combine Lucerne With Other Places
Depending on how many days you have, you can combine your stay in Lucerne with a few days in other cities nearby. For example, have a look at our Zurich and Lucerne itinerary for inspiration. If you have more time, consider visiting Bern and Montreux too, and finish your trip in Geneva, which has an international airport.
