Summary
Lucerne stands out as one of the premier tourist destinations in Europe. Nestled along the shores of Lake Lucerne, the city is surrounded by an impressive mountainous landscape. The meticulously preserved town is located at the northern end of Lake Lucerne, where the River Reuss flows into the lake.
Characterized by elegant historical structures, a welcoming atmosphere, a variety of souvenir shops, and a stunning lakeside environment, Lucerne serves as a central point for visitors to Switzerland. It provides an excellent base from which to embark on day trips to nearby attractions; there is an abundance of sites to discover in this charming city in the heart of Switzerland.
1. Mount Pilatus
A visit to Lucerne would be incomplete without a trip to Mount Pilatus. This mountain, which overlooks Lucerne, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding regions. Mount Pilatus consists of several peaks, the tallest being Tomlishorn, which rises to an elevation of 2,132 meters. Other notable peaks include Esel, Oberhaupt, and Pilatus-Kulm, standing at 2,118m, 2,105m, and 2,070m respectively.
The mountain is accessible via cableways; however, for those seeking a challenge, a hike to the summit is also an option, typically taking around four hours.
In comparison to other nearby mountains, Pilatus is higher and possesses a rockier terrain, enhancing its majestic mountain experience.
2. Old Town of Lucerne
The idyllic Old Town is alive with beautiful murals, intricate art, historic buildings, and quaint squares complete with fountains. This area is located on the right bank of the River Reuss, nestled between the city hall and Chapel Bridge.
Highlights of the town include the Altes Rathaus, constructed between 1602 and 1606, and St. Peter’s Chapel, dating back to 1178.
This charming locale is ideal for leisurely strolls while browsing the local shops. The streets are generally car-free, facilitating easy navigation while appreciating the vibrant timber-framed buildings.
3. Lake Lucerne
Spanning a length of 38 kilometers, Lake Lucerne is a picturesque waterbody, ranking as the fourth largest lake in Switzerland. Its complex shape features sharp bends and four distinct arms. With a maximum depth of 702 feet, it covers an area of 114 km² and sits at an elevation of 1,424 feet above sea level.
The lake is flanked by renowned mountains and drains into the River Reuss, specifically through the Luzernersee, with the river entering the lake at Fluelen.
Boasting unparalleled scenic diversity, Lake Lucerne attracts both local and international tourists alike.
Visitors can choose to drive around the lake or utilize the train for a more leisurely exploration.
4. Swiss Transport Museum
This transport museum, known as Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, stands among Europe’s most varied museums focused on transport and communication, showcasing an extensive collection of airplanes, trains, motorcycles, ships, and automobiles.
Opened in July 1959, the museum also features works by local artist and sculptor Hans Erni. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the planetarium cinema located within the museum.
The Swiss Transport Museum provides an insightful exploration of transportation history and is an excellent way to spend a day on the outskirts of Lucerne.
5. Glacier Garden
The Gletschergarten, situated in the heart of Lucerne, is a remarkable remnant from the Ice Age. This natural monument serves as a serene retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle and features glacier-polished rock, 32 potholes at the base of waterfalls, and erratic blocks.
A protective marquee roof has been erected to shield the monument from air pollution damage.
Visiting the Glacier Garden affords magnificent views of Lucerne and Mount Pilatus, coupled with insights into its history, dating back 300 million years.
Within the Glacier Garden, there is a park, a museum, and a mirror maze, the latter of which, created in 1896, contains 90 mirrors that create fascinating optical illusions.
6. Jungfraujoch
Located 80 kilometers from the center of Lucerne, Jungfraujoch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for housing the highest railway station in Europe, often referred to as “the top of Europe.”
At the glacier saddle’s summit, visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking Alpine vistas. The railway, constructed in 1912, facilitates easy access to the peak.
The Sphinx Observatory, towering at 3,572 meters, serves as an exceptional viewing platform. It ranks among the world’s highest astronomical observatories and hosts one of the research stations for the Global Atmosphere Watch.
7. Old City Wall
A section of the Musegg Wall, dating back to 1386, remains remarkably intact. Of the nine towers, four are accessible to the public, which include the Schirmer, Zytturm, Wacht, and Mannli towers. These structures are part of the historic fortifications established around the city in the 13th century.
The city clock, designed by Hans Luter in 1535, features the “First Strike Rights,” chiming one minute prior to the hour, preceding all other city clocks.
Each accessible tower provides stunning views of both the city and its surrounding mountains and lake.
8. Mount Rigi
For a quintessential experience, a visit to Mount Rigi is essential; it represents a straightforward and beautiful day trip from Lucerne. Known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” from its impressive peak, one can behold over 13 lakes and the strikingly snow-capped Swiss Alps.
Views from the summit extend as far as Germany’s Black Forest. The highest point, Rigi Kulm, rises to an elevation of 1,798 meters.
Accessing Rigi can be accomplished via train or boat, and the entire massif is nearly encircled by the waters of Lake Lucerne, Lake Laurez, and Lake Zug.
9. Bourbaki Panorama
One of Lucerne’s most unique attractions is the Bourbaki Panorama. This expansive panoramic artwork by Edouard Castre depicts the retreat of 87,000 members of the French army to Switzerland following their defeat in the Franco-Prussian War during the brutal winter of 1871.
Measuring 112 meters in length and 10 meters in height, the painting, completed in 1881, remains one of the most well-known tourist attractions in the country, captivating audiences for over 130 years.
When standing in the center of this remarkable circular painting, the figures and elements create a three-dimensional scene that narrates the story compellingly.
10. Lion Monument
The renowned Löwendenkmal, or Lion Monument, is located north of Löwenplatz. Designed by Bertel Thorwaldsen in 1820 and carved by Lukas Ahorn in 1821, this sculpture honors the sacrifice of 26 officers and over 700 Swiss Guard members who were slain during the French Revolution in 1792. The mercenaries died while attempting to protect King Louis XVI from the revolutionaries’ onslaught at the Tuileries Palace.
The poignant depiction of a dying lion stands as one of the oldest preserved figurative monuments in Switzerland, beautifully carved into the wall of a former sandstone quarry.
11. Hofkirche
The twin-towered Roman Catholic Church of St. Leodegar was reconstructed in 1634 to maintain the towers of its predecessor, which was originally built in 1525 but was largely destroyed by fire in 1633. This church, also known as Hofkirche St. Leodegar, represents one of Switzerland’s most significant Renaissance edifices.
Featuring a Gothic sculpture depicting the Agony in the Garden on the northern tower, the interiors are adorned with gilt statuary and elaborate altars.
Within the arcades surrounding the church lie the tombs of prominent Lucerne families. The sanctuary is divided with ornate wooden pews on the southern side and simpler seating on the northern side; historically, this arrangement catered to the affluent and less wealthy parishioners separately.
12. The Chapel Bridge
This iconic structure is reputed to be the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe. Constructed in the 14th century for the protection of the city, the Chapel Bridge was regrettably destroyed by fire in the 18th century but was meticulously reconstructed and restored to its original design in 1993. The bridge derives its name from St. Peter’s Chapel.
This picturesque landmark diagonally crosses the River Reuss, serving to connect the old town with the newer sections. It is one of the most photographed sites in the nation.
Visiting the Chapel Bridge presents an opportunity to delve into its history while strolling across, where one can find around a hundred paintings from the 17th century adorning the roof rafters.
13. Mount Titlis
This winter wonderland is situated 35 kilometers south of Lucerne and can be reached in approximately an hour and a half by road. Dominating the landscape, Mount Titlis soars to an elevation of 3,020 meters.
A day trip to Mount Titlis allows you to appreciate the stunning Alpine scenery. For those residing in metropolitan areas worldwide, this destination offers both a visual delight and a refreshing respite from urban life, making it a recommended day trip from Lucerne.
14. BurgenStock
BurgenStock, a small mountain rising over Lake Lucerne, reaches an altitude of 1,115 meters. This mountain is almost entirely surrounded by the lake.
On the mountain lies a resort situated at an elevation of 874 meters. Access can be achieved via road or by boat.
This destination is ideal for escaping the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a tranquil setting in Switzerland, famously associated with James Bond films.
15. Rosengart Collection
The Sammlung Rosengart boasts over 300 artworks from more than 23 notable artists, including Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, Cézanne, and Pissarro. This collection was artfully curated by Swiss art dealer Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela.
For enthusiasts of Post-Impressionist art, this museum, which emphasizes Classical Modernism, is a worthwhile excursion from Lucerne.
