Lucerne, Switzerland

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Lucerne

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Switzerland
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3 out of 21 Places to visit in Switzerland
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Lucerne Travel Packages

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6 Days / 5 Nights

Switzerland Tour Packages for Family - Zurich a...

Zurich(2N) → Lucerne(3N)

$939/person
13 Days / 12 Nights

Gems of Europe Honeymoon Package

Amsterdam(2N) → Paris(2N) → Lucerne(3N) → Zurich(1) → Salzburg(2N) → Prague(3N)

$ 3,250
7% off
$3,010/person
11 Days / 10 Nights

Honeymoon in Western European Package

Rome(2N) → Venice(2N) → Lucerne(3N) → Zurich(1N) → Paris(2N)

$ 2,588
6% off
$2,420/person
7 Days / 6 Nights

Best of Switzerland in 6 Nights Package

Zurich(1N) → Lucerne(3N) → Interlaken(2N)

$ 1,288
8% off
$1,179/person
7 Days / 6 Nights

Mesmerising Paris & Switzerland for 6 Nights

Paris(3N) → Lucerne(2N) → Zurich(1N)

$1,449/person
9 Days / 8 Nights

London Paris And Swiss Tour Package

London (2N) → Paris(2N) → Switzerland(4N)

$ 2,504
8% off
$2,287/person
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Lucerne Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 2 days

Best Time: Throughout the year Read More

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"The City of Bridges and Churches"

Lucerne Tourism

Lucerne is a picturesque city located in the heart of Switzerland. It is situated in the central part of the country, in the German-speaking region, and specifically in the canton of Lucerne. The city is known for its stunning natural surroundings, with the Swiss Alps providing a dramatic backdrop and Lake Lucerne adding to the overall charm. The pristine lake and the nearby mountains make it an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes.

Lucerne's well-preserved Old Town is a major attraction for tourists. It features narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings with frescoed facades, and well-preserved medieval architecture. The surrounding region offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports on Lake Lucerne. The nearby Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi are easily accessible for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

Lucerne is home to various cultural and historical sites, including museums, theaters, and churches. It hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year. The Lucerne Festival, a world-renowned classical music festival, is a highlight for music enthusiasts. The city's Fasnacht (Carnival) celebration is another popular event, known for its vibrant parades and colorful costumes. Lucerne is well-connected to other Swiss cities, making it a convenient base for exploring the country. It is also a gateway to many nearby attractions, including the Swiss Alps, the city of Zurich, and other Swiss cities and towns.

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Must Know Before You Travel to Lucerne

  • Public Transportation: The Swiss public transportation system is known for its efficiency. Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, which provides unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, as well as free admission to many museums. Apps like SBB Mobile can help you navigate the public transportation system.
  • Transport Cards: Many hotels in Lucerne provide guests with a Visitor Card, which includes free public transportation during your stay and other discounts.
  • Museum Visits: Consider purchasing a Swiss Museum Pass, which can save you money if you plan to visit multiple museums during your trip.
  • Travel Light: Switzerland's efficient public transportation system often involves stairs and escalators, so packing light can make getting around easier. Consider packing versatile, layered clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
  • Shop Tax-Free: If you plan to shop for expensive items like Swiss watches or jewelry, you can get a refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) when leaving the country. Ask for the necessary forms when making your purchase.
  • Carry Cash in Small Denominations: While credit cards are widely accepted, it's a good idea to have some Swiss Francs in small denominations for minor expenses and in case you visit places that don't accept cards.
  • Recycle and Dispose of Waste: Switzerland is known for its recycling culture. Be environmentally conscious and dispose of your waste in the proper bins.
  • Respect Quiet Hours: Swiss towns, including Lucerne, have strict "quiet hours" in the evenings, so be mindful of noise, especially if you're staying in residential areas.
  • Water: The tap water in Switzerland is safe to drink and of high quality. Consider carrying a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste.
  • Public Toilets: Public restrooms in Switzerland often require a small fee to use, so keep some coins on hand for this purpose.
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Things To Do In Lucerne

Chapel Bridge

Chapel Bridge
Old Town

Old Town
Spreuer Bridge

Spreuer Bridge
Lucerne Lion Monument

Lucerne Lion Monument
Swiss Transport Museum

Swiss Transport Museum
Rosengart Collection

Rosengart Collection
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Top Hotels In Lucerne

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More on Lucerne Travel

Shopping in Lucerne

Lucerne is very well known for it's market of Swiss watches. Various shops dotted around the city provide some of the most extravagant watch collections for you to pick from. Do give House of Chronoswiss in the city centre a visit. International luxury brands and local Swiss brands are all covered in a wide variety of Fashion boutiques as well. The two main markets are one each in the old town and the new town. And of course, Swiss chocolates of various tastes and flavours can be seen throughout the city. Some of the neighborhoods that one can check out for shopping are: 
  • Old Town (Altstadt): Lucerne's historic Old Town is a great place to shop for Swiss souvenirs and gifts. You can find Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolates, and traditional Swiss clothing. The Kapellgasse and Hertensteinstrasse streets are known for their charming shops.
  • Bahnhofstrasse: Located near the main train station, Bahnhofstrasse is a bustling shopping street with a range of shops and boutiques. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and cosmetics here.
  • Schwanenplatz: This area offers a mix of high-end boutiques and international brands. It's a good place to shop for luxury items, designer clothing, and fine jewelry.
  • Kapellbrücke Area: The vicinity of the Chapel Bridge is known for its artisanal and craft shops. You can find unique handcrafted items, local artwork, and souvenirs that reflect the culture and traditions of Lucerne.
  • Rue de Bourg: This area, situated close to the Lion Monument, is known for its antique shops and art galleries. It's an excellent place to explore for art collectors and antique enthusiasts.

Nightlife in Lucerne

Nightlife in Lucerne, like any big European city, is up to the mark. It has several clubs and bars with amazing ambiences, some even perched on roof tops providing quite the atmosphere. Some neighborhood one can head to for nightlife:
  • Old Town (Altstadt): Lucerne's Old Town is a lively area with a mix of bars, pubs, and restaurants that come to life in the evening. You can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, listen to live music, and savor Swiss wines and beers in this historic neighborhood.
  • Schwanenplatz: This central square is surrounded by bars, cafes, and restaurants. It's a popular spot for evening drinks, and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the ambiance.
  • Füdlistrasse: Located just a short walk from the train station, Füdlistrasse is known for its nightlife. This street boasts a variety of bars, clubs, and late-night venues, making it a hotspot for night owls.
  • Neustadt: This up-and-coming area near the city center has gained popularity for its nightlife options, including stylish bars and clubs. It's a great place to experience Lucerne's more contemporary and cosmopolitan side.
  • Haldenstrasse: You'll find a selection of nightclubs in this part of town, particularly along Haldenstrasse. It's where you can dance the night away to a mix of music genres, from electronic to hip-hop.
  • Lake Lucerne: During the summer months, you can enjoy lakeside bars and open-air events along the shores of Lake Lucerne. It's a beautiful setting to unwind and enjoy a drink with a view.

History of Lucerne

This history of Lucerne dates back to the 8th century, to the fall of the Roman Empire, when the Germanic Allemanics worked to expand their influence in the region. It was acquired by Murbach Abbey in the 9th century, from which Lucerne finally gained it's independence in 1178, and the city was formally founded in the same year. By the end of the 13th century, the Habsburg empire took over the city. To defeat this rising influence, Lucerne formed an allience neighbouring towns, which was later joined by Zurich, Bug and Bern to form the 'eternal Swiss confederacy' in 1332. After beating off the Habsburg rule, Lucerne expanded greatly, commercially and economically. The 16th century saw the Protestand reformation across the confederacy, Lucerne remained catholic, winning the battle at Kappel in 1531. However after the Protestant defeat of the Catholics in 1712, it's influence in the Confederacy was lost, and Protestant cities became dominant. Agriculture always remained the dominant form of economic output, and the industrial revolution wasn't as pronounced till very late. Most recently, the city of Lucerne merged with the neighbouring town of Littau after a referendum, making Lucerne today the 7th largest city in Switzerland.

Language of Lucerne

Although the official language of Lucerne is German, the German spoken in actuality is the local variant of Allemanic Swiss German. It is preferred if you use this language for greetings and general conduct. However, French, English and Italian are also spoken.

Daily Budget for Lucerne

Per day costs in Lucerne for a budget trip can start from CHF 100. These costs include three meals a day, some alcohol, transportation, and entry passes for attractions. Eating in fancy restaurants, shopping, and other small upgrades can almost double that amount per day, taking you to about CHF 180 - 200 for a decently comfortable trip of Lucerne.

Exchanging Money in Lucerne

Exchanging currency in Lucerne is a simple task. Banks all over the city have currency exchange booths, which usually stay open beyond bank hours. These are also available at train station and in Old Town. There are even automatic currency exchange machines in Lucerne. Most ATMs in Lucerne accept foreign cards.

Best Time to Visit Lucerne

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How to Reach Lucerne

How to Reach Overview

Lucerne is an easy reach via car or train. It, however, doesn't have an airport and you will have to land at Zurich or Berne and then take a train.

How to reach Lucerne by flight

Lucerne does not have an airport. A flight has to be taken to Zurich or Berne, and then a train to reach Lucerne.

How to reach Lucerne by road

Driving to Lucerne is going to make you witness some of the most stunning and picturesque views Switzerland has to offer. The roads are magnificent too, adding to the entire spectacle of driving down. Lucerne is at a distance of about 45 minutes from Zurich, and an hour from Berne and Basel. Renting cars in Zurich is fairly simple. You'll find a lot of options at the airport itself.

How to reach Lucerne by train

The train system in Switzerland is actually quite sophistciated. It covers almost the entire country and the views and sceneries are just breathtaking. Trains from Zurich will take you about 50 minutes to an hour, and an hour and 15 - 20 minutes from Basel and Berne.

How to reach Lucerne by bus

Direct intercity bus services in Switzerland aren't very prominent. For example, to go from Zurich to Lucerne in a bus, you first have to take a train to the outskirts and then take the bus. Train travel is recommended to get to Lucerne.

Local transport in Lucerne

Buses and local train networks are ideal forms of commuting in the city. The entire region is divided into zones and Lucerne City is Zone 10. A day pass for zone 10 will cost CHF 10. The pass will allow you to cover all the attractions of the city. Purchasing of tickets can be done through cash, credit card, or through a phone app called OV ticket. A fine of CHF 90 can be levied if you're found travelling without a ticket or with an invalid ticket.

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Lucerne Photos

Lucerne, Switzerland

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FAQs on Lucerne

What is the best time to visit Lucerne?

Winters in Lucerne are a joy to behold. The Alps are in their full glory, and the snowfall and freezing cold temperatures make the trip quite exciting. Hordes of tourists flock to Lucerne during the winters for ski trips. However, prices during this period are high due to Christmas and New Year bookings so it's better to book several months in advance. On the other hand, summers in Lucerne are quite pleasant. This is the other peak season in the city which sees lots and lots of tourists. The Alps ensure that the temperature is still quite chilly. Soaking up the sun while exploring the city, embarking on hiking and biking trips is a fun way to spend the summer in Lucerne. But as is the case with winters, this period sees a great rise in prices, and planning well in advance is advised.
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What are the places near Lucerne?

The top places near to Lucerne are Zurich which is 40 km from Lucerne, Basel which is located 78 km from Lucerne, Geneva which is located 190 km from Lucerne, Lausanne which is located 140 km from Lucerne, Zermatt which is located 122 km from Lucerne

What are the things to do in Lucerne?

The top things to do in Lucerne are Chapel Bridge (Kapellbruecke), Old Town, Spreuerbruecke, Lowendenkmal, Swiss Transport Museum (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz), Rosengart Collection. You can see all the places to visit in Lucerne here

What is the best way to reach Lucerne?

Lucerne is an easy reach via car or train. It, however, doesn't have an airport and you will have to land at Zurich or Berne and then take a train.
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What is the local food in Lucerne?

The local cuisine in Lucerne concentrates on the importance of homegrown and fresh foods. As is obvious, Swiss food is going to be loaded with cheese. The Luzerner Chôgelipastete is a local delicacy and you should also try the Pear Bread. Some popular local restaurants include Taube, and Dean and David, which is known great fresh food and isn't heavy on the wallet.
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