Chapel Bridge, Lake Lucerne, Pilatus and Rigi: discover what to do in Lucerne and central Switzerland, the must-sees and our day-trip tips.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne and ringed by mountains, Lucerne is one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities. Its medieval old town, iconic wooden bridge and easily reached peaks make it an ideal base for exploring central Switzerland. Here is what to do in Lucerne and its surroundings.
Lucerne's must-sees
- The Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, with its water tower.
- The old town: cobbled squares, painted façades and the Musegg wall.
- The Lion of Lucerne: a monument carved into the rock, in memory of the Swiss Guards.
- Lake Lucerne: cruises on historic paddle steamers.
- Mount Pilatus and the Rigi: grand panoramas within reach by train.
The old town and the Chapel Bridge
The Kapellbrücke, built in the 14th century, crosses the Reuss and symbolises Lucerne with its octagonal tower. On foot, you discover the picturesque squares of the old town (Weinmarkt, Hirschenplatz), their frescoed houses, then the Musegg wall and its towers, some of which can be visited for a view over the rooftops.
Lake Lucerne
Deeply indented and ringed by mountains, this lake is one of the country's most spectacular. Board a historic paddle steamer to reach lakeside villages such as Weggis, Vitznau or Brunnen, or to get to the foot of the mountains. It is also the cradle of Switzerland, around the Rütli meadow.
Pilatus, Rigi and mountain trips
Two peaks dominate the region. Pilatus is climbed via the world's steepest cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad, or by cable car from Kriens. The Rigi, nicknamed "the queen of the mountains", is reached by cogwheel train from Vitznau or Arth-Goldau. A "Golden Round Trip" combines boat, cogwheel railway and cable car.
Where to eat in Lucerne?
The city offers terraces along the Reuss and traditional tables serving fondue, rösti and lake fish. To find a good address, explore restaurants in Lucerne, book a table via the Reservation page, or browse businesses by city.
Culture and events
The KKL (Culture and Convention Centre), designed by Jean Nouvel, hosts a prestigious classical music festival (Lucerne Festival). The Swiss Museum of Transport, the country's most visited museum, delights young and old with locomotives, aircraft and a planetarium.
Practical tips
Lucerne is about an hour by train from Zurich. The city is walkable. For mountain trips, consider combined tickets and check the weather, as the view from the peaks makes all the difference. Spring and summer are ideal; autumn offers superb light.
Plan your stay with TOP SUISSE
To go further, read our guides the most beautiful mountains in Switzerland, the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland and what to do in Zurich, or browse all the categories.
Frequently asked questions
What to do in Lucerne in one day?
In one day, cross the Chapel Bridge, explore the old town and its squares, climb the Musegg wall and admire the Lion of Lucerne. If time allows, add a short cruise on Lake Lucerne.
Should you go up Pilatus or the Rigi?
Both offer magnificent panoramas. Pilatus is more spectacular with its very steep cogwheel railway; the gentler Rigi offers fine hikes and 360° views. In good weather, the Golden Round Trip combines boat and mountain.
How do you get from Zurich to Lucerne?
The direct train connects Zurich to Lucerne in about 45 minutes to 1 hour, with frequent departures. It is also a very easy day trip from Zurich.
What to see around Lucerne?
The lakeside villages (Weggis, Vitznau, Brunnen), the Pilatus and Rigi peaks, the historic cradle of Switzerland at the Rütli, and the Swiss Museum of Transport are among central Switzerland's must-sees.
