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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Lucerne sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne is a gem of a city that sparkles with old world charm and modern vibrance.
From exploring the winding streets of the medieval old town to cruising the serene waters of Lake Lucerne, this city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
So, pack your bags and let the beauty of Lucerne enchant you.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Lucerne:
1. Chapel Bridge
Chapel Bridge is a 17th-century wooden footbridge that stretches across the Reuss River in Lucerne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Take a stroll across Chapel Bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque Old Town.
Admire the paintings of the roofed medieval bridge and the octagonal Water Tower, which once served as a dungeon and torture chamber.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the unique and fascinating history of the bridge, including the fact that it’s the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe that still stands.
Make sure to check out the 17th-century paintings that depict Swiss and local history.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
During the summer months, you can take a boat tour on the Reuss River and get a unique perspective of the bridge from the water.
Also, keep an eye out for the famous swans that often swim under the bridge.
2. Old Town Lucerne
The Old Town in Lucerne is a charming and picturesque area filled with traditional Swiss architecture dating back to the 15th century.
What to see or do: Stroll along the cobblestone streets and marvel at the intricate frescoes and ornate facades of the buildings.
Take a walk across the Chapel Bridge, one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe, and enjoy views of the Reuss River and surrounding mountains.
Visit the Jesuit Church, a stunning Baroque church with ornate stucco decorations and frescoes.
Don’t miss: The Water Tower, a medieval tower built in the early 14th century that stands on the bank of the Reuss River.
It has served as a prison, archive, treasury, and even a torture chamber. Today, it houses a small museum that offers panoramic views of the city from the top.
Insider travel tips: Explore the back alleys and hidden courtyards in the Old Town to discover some of Lucerne’s hidden gems. Try some traditional Swiss cuisine at one of the many cozy restaurants in the area.
Visit during the Fasnacht Carnival in February to witness an exciting parade of colorful costumes and floats.
3. Lion Monument
A sculptural monument in Lucerne, Switzerland that depicts a dying lion resting on a shield with the fleur-de-lis symbol of the French monarchy.
What to see or do: Take in the impressive craftsmanship and intricate details of the monument, with the lion’s pained expression and the shield bearing the names of Swiss soldiers who died during the French Revolution.
Don’t miss: Capturing a photo with the iconic statue, which is one of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds, and consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the monument.
4. Mount Rigi
Mount Rigi is a mountain peak in Lucerne, Switzerland that offers amazing panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and surrounding lakes.
What to see or do: Hiking and skiing are popular activities on Mount Rigi.
Visitors can take a cogwheel train, cable car or hike to the top of the mountain to observe the stunning views of the Swiss landscapes.
There are also several picnic spots, playgrounds and restaurants at the summit.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss taking a ride on the cogwheel train that has been in operation for over 150 years and experience the beautiful scenery of the mountains and the valleys.
Additionally, catching the sunrise or sunset views from the peak is a must.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to buy a round-trip ticket on the cogwheel train to the summit, but for those who prefer hiking, there are several trails to choose from.
Visitors should dress in layers as the temperature can vary significantly at the summit. Additionally, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the offseason (October to April).
5. Mount Pilatus
A mountain peak overlooking the city of Lucerne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Take a scenic cable car ride or cogwheel train to the summit, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and Lake Lucerne.
There are also hiking trails, restaurants, and souvenir shops at the top.
Don’t miss: The Dragon’s Path, a steep hiking trail with incredible views, and the world’s steepest cogwheel railway that travels up the mountain at a gradient of 48%.
Insider travel tips: Dress warmly as it can be chilly at the summit, even in the summer. Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and give yourself plenty of time to explore.
Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for discounted transportation and admission to attractions.
6. Swiss Museum of Transport
The Swiss Museum of Transport is the most comprehensive transportation museum in Europe, showcasing the history and development of land, sea, and air transportation.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore numerous exhibits, including vintage cars, trains, aircraft, and boats. The museum also has a planetarium, a space travel section, and a multimedia hall.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the Swiss Chocolate Adventure, where visitors can experience a virtual journey through the world of Swiss chocolate.
Insider travel tips: – Consider purchasing a combination ticket that includes the planetarium and other attractions.
7. Spreuer Bridge
A historic wooden pedestrian bridge located in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll across the 15th century bridge and admire the painted triangular panels depicting the Dance of Death, a medieval representation of the inevitability of death.
Don’t miss: The picturesque view of the River Reuss and surrounding buildings from the bridge.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months for the chance to see the Spreuer Bridge illuminated at night. Be sure to also explore the nearby Old Town area for charming shops and restaurants.
8. Jesuit Church
Jesuit Church, Lucerne is a historic church in the Old Town of Lucerne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful Baroque architecture and ornate interior, including intricate frescoes and marble columns. Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and sense of history.
Don’t miss: The stunning ceiling fresco, which depicts the life of Saint Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order. Also, look out for the beautiful organ, which is one of the largest in Switzerland.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit outside of peak tourist hours for a more peaceful experience. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help with the church’s upkeep.
Keep in mind that it is an active church, so be respectful of any ongoing religious services.
9. Glacier Garden
A natural history museum and park showcasing glacial potholes and geological exhibits in Lucerne.
What to see or do: Explore the recreated glaciers and geological formations, visit the Mirror Maze, and take in panoramic views of Lucerne.
Don’t miss: The Glacier Experience, a stunning multimedia show that takes you on a journey through the history of the Alps and glaciers.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.
10. Richard Wagner Museum
The Richard Wagner Museum, located in the Swiss city of Lucerne, is dedicated to the life and work of the famous German composer Richard Wagner.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of Wagner memorabilia, including manuscripts, letters, photos, and personal objects such as his writing desk and piano.
Visitors can also view a replica of the Bayreuth Festspielhaus, the opera house Wagner designed and built for the performance of his own works.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the multimedia installation “The Ascent,” which uses music, light, and sound to transport visitors into Wagner’s world and immerse them in his music.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located on the shore of Lake Lucerne and offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.
11. Hofkirche
A stunning Gothic-style church located in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricate architecture and stunning stained glass windows. The church is also home to the largest organ in Switzerland and offers regular organ concerts.
Don’t miss: The famous “Dance of Death” mural, which depicts skeletons leading people from all walks of life to their demise.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Also, be sure to climb the tower for stunning views of the city and surrounding Swiss Alps.
12. KKL Lucerne
KKL Lucerne is a cultural and convention center located in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Attend a concert – KKL has a state-of-the-art concert hall that hosts a variety of events, from classical music to jazz and pop concerts.
Don’t miss: If you’re a music lover, don’t miss the opportunity to attend a concert in the main hall – the acoustics are unparalleled.
Also, take some time to wander around the complex and admire the beautiful design.
Insider travel tips: – Check out the center’s website to see if there are any events or exhibitions you want to attend.
13. Rosengart Collection
The Rosengart Collection is a world-renowned museum in Lucerne, Switzerland that houses an extensive collection of modern art.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can view works by some of the most significant artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, and Claude Monet.
The collection also includes a significant number of pieces by Swiss artists, making it an excellent destination for those interested in Swiss art history.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of works by Pablo Picasso, including several pieces from his Blue and Rose periods.
The museum also has a fascinating collection of lithographs and drawings by Swiss artist Paul Klee.
Insider travel tips: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, and admission is free on the first Sunday of every month.
14. Bourbaki Panorama
Bourbaki Panorama is a circular painting museum situated in Lucerne, Switzerland. It is a large-scale, 360-degree panoramic painting that depicts the history of the Franco-Prussian War.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a unique visual experience of the war, including its aftermath, through the impressive painting that is complemented by a realistic soundscape.
Audio commentary is available in multiple languages.
Don’t miss: Apart from the painting, visitors can access an exhibition that sheds light on the history and significance of this masterpiece. A souvenir shop and a cozy café are also available on site.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit the place during weekdays and early in the morning to avoid crowds.