If you’ve been following my blog and/or Instagram then you know that I’ve lived in Lucerne, Switzerland for the last three and a half years. Before we moved, I did all the usual research on top sights and must do’s in the area. I was so excited to find out everything that this magnificent country had to offer and specifically the area in which we’d be living. If you’re reading this, then hopefully you’re thinking about visiting this magnificent place as well. I’ve had the opportunity to experience more than I ever could have imagined and I am excited to share with you my favorite must see sights in Lucerne.
Picturesque Lucerne is perfectly situated at the foot of the Alps in the Swiss-German speaking part of Central Switzerland. Lucerne is the capital of the canton of the same name and located on the pristine turquoise waters of Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee in German.) You’ll also find the jewel toned, River Reuss that winds its way through the Old Town (Altstadt.) As you wander through the sights of this charming area, you will easily see why I fell in love with this town and why I am incredibly grateful to be able to show our guests this place that I’ve been so fortunate to call my home.
So, here is my list of the top ten places (in no particular order) I make sure to show all of our out of town visitors. Make sure to save this post as a reference when you visit the charming fairytale city of Lucerne.
The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge (or Kapellbrücke in German), is by far the most photographed landmark in Lucerne (Luzern in German.) It is also known for being the oldest covered wooden bridge in all of Europe, dating back to 1332. Although, it was originally built in 1332, it was nearly destroyed by a fire in 1993. What you see and walk across now is an excellent reconstruction built in 1994. The two bridge heads and water tower are all that remain in their original state.
Take time to walk across the bridge and make sure to look up as the paintings that adorn the bridge are another reason that it is so unique. The triangular paintings depict events from the history and legends of Lucerne as well as the biographies of the city’s patron saints, St. Leodegar and St. Maurice. They were painted by a local Catholic painter, Hans Heinrich Wägmann in the 17th century. After the fire, out of the original 158 paintings, only 30 were successfully restored.
Another unique aspect to the bridge is the Water Tower which was built around 1300 and is still in it’s original state. The water tower has been used as a treasury, prison, archive and torture chamber. Today, it houses the headquarters of the Lucerne Artillery Association.
The Chapel Bridge looks beautiful in every season but my favorite in particular, is during the summer season when the bridge is adorned with the colorful flower boxes or “with her skirt on” as they say. It doesn’t matter how many pictures I’ve taken of this landmark, I always end of seeing it from a new perspective and snapping more. Although, I am no longer a tourist, I still find myself walking across it regularly to pass from Old Town to New Town and taking in the views along the way.
The Lion Monument
The Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal in German) is just down the hill from my home in Lucerne and I walk by it whenever I go to the post office … I stop and look at it every time. It is such a beautiful, moving tribute.
The Lion Monument is an incredibly moving tribute to the Swiss mercenaries, who serving the French King Louis XVI, lost their lives during the French Revolution at the Tuileries Palace in Paris. Many were killed during the invasion of the Tuileries on August 10, 1792 while others were guillotined on September 2 & 3rd 1792. The inscription above the Lion reads, “Helvetiorum fedei ac Virtuti” which translates as, “To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss.”
The monument was inaugurated on August 10th, 1821 and purchased by Lucerne in 1882.
It is an absolute must see if you’re visiting Lucerne. Take your time to really look at the details of the monument. American writer, Mark Twain once said, “The Lion of Lucerne is the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.”
* Tip: There are usually tour groups visiting during the day which take away from the reflective part of visiting the monument. If you can, go either early morning or wait until later in the afternoon after the tour buses have departed form their day trips, the experience is much more enjoyable.
Church of St. Leodegar
Church of St. Leodegar, also known as the Hofkirche is a Roman Catholic church and the parish church of Lucerne. The Hofkirche is considered the most important example of church building during the Renaissance period in Switzerland. A gothic church preceded the existing German Renaissance building, but was mainly destroyed by a fire in 1633. Only the towers and St. Mary’s alter remain in the existing 17th century building.
Upon entering the church take note of the beautifully carved wooden doors and the impressive ornate interior. The pulpit, pews and choir stalls are masterpieces of ornate wood The surrounding gardens and cemetery are lovely as well. There is no entry fee to visit the church but a donation is appreciated.
It’s hard to miss the two iconic steeples of the Hofkirche as they are a landmark in the skyline of Lucerne and I have a personal fondness for it as it is also part of the view I see from our home.
Jesuit Church
The Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche in German) is an incredibly striking landmark in Lucerne. Located along the River Reuss, it is impossible to miss the two green shining domes (or onions, as I refer to them) on this magnificent Baroque church. This is the first large Baroque Catholic church in Switzerland, completed in 1677 and the two towers were added in 1893. The Jesuit missionary, St. Francis Xavier is the patron saint of Lucerne’s Jesuit Church. The exterior of the church is the main talking point but what I find most appealing is the light airy interior of rose, gold and white.
There is no entry fee to visit the church but a donation is appreciated.
Old Town and Town Hall
Transport yourself back in time as you wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Town (Altstadt) Lucerne. Even after 3.5 years, strolling through the cobblestone streets of Old Town are still one one of my favorite things to do. I never tire of the magnificent architecture and looking up at the historic fresco-adorned houses.
I have thousands of photos of Old Town yet I continue to take more as each time I walk through town I seem to discover something new. Take your time as you admire the impressive architecture, the enchanting fountains, statues and bridges all while the breathtaking Alps surround you.
You’ll find numerous shops, ranging from clothing boutiques, decadent chocolates, luxury jewelry, souvenirs and more. When you’ve finished your sightseeing, there are a variety of cafes and restaurants dotted along the River Reuss in which you can relax with a cappuccino or Aperol Spritz.
* Note: Lucerne is quite popular with tourists especially during the summer months. So, if you’re coming during that time, just be aware and be patient. Do not let the crowds distract you from the beauty surrounding you.
The Spreuer Bridge
The Spreuer Bridge (Spreuerbrücke in German) a structure from 1408, is still entirely original and a bit of a hidden gem. Like the Chapel Bridge, the Spreuer Bridge is another timber bridge but is it located farther downstream on the River Reuss. The Spreuer Bridge doesn’t get the attention it deserves as the views are fantastic and a offer a unique perspective from the usual tourist photos.
Like the Chapel Bridge, the Spreuer Bridge boasts an amazing series of paintings so make sure you look up as you walk through. The paintings were done by artist, Caspar Meglinger between 1625 – 1635 and display, “The Dance of Death” (The Danse Macabre.) The paintings are a grim but true reminder that death is inevitable for everyone, regardless of your station in life.
* Tip: You can find the amazing views from this first picture overlooking Lucerne and Spreuer Bridge by visiting the Musegg Wall and climbing the 138 steps up the Männliturm (The Little Man) Tower. I will go into more detail about the Musegg Wall in the next section.
The Musegg Wall
The Musegg Wall (Museggmauer in German) and it’s towers belong to Lucerne’s medieval fortifications that were completed in 1408. Of the nine towers, only four are open to the public – Männli, Zyt, Wacht and Schirmer from 8am to 7pm from April 1st – November 1st.
If you recall from my post above, the Männli Tower is where you will find those amazing views overlooking Lucerne, the Spreuer Bridge and the River Reuss. But honestly, it is worth to explore all of them as each is unique and provides a different outlook (although, views from Männli are my favorite.) Just be aware that it does take a bit of climbing (138 steps up the Männli Tower) and the stairs are quite narrow.
The oldest clock in town is located on the Zyt Tower and can be seen from a distance. Lucerne’s respect for this clock is shown by its privilege to chime one minute before all the others.
* Tip: Directly behind the Musegg Wall lies the Hinter Musegg Farm with a farm shop, eatery and animals. There’s a chance to see alpacas, Highland cattle, mini pigs, hens and goats.
Lake Lucerne
Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee in German which translates to Lake of the Four Cantons) is Switzerland’s fourth largest lake and is absolutely stunning! Another one of my favorite things to do is to hop on one of the many ferries or historic paddle boats and enjoy a scenic cruise around the lake. Whether you have a specific destination in mind or if you just want to grab a coffee or prosecco and gaze at all of the villages from a different perspective … then this is for you!
On separate occasions, I took both my niece and nephew on the ferry from Lucerne to Mount Rigi and both agreed, that experience was their favorite during their time in Lucerne. I’ll speak in more detail about Mount Rigi next.
Please reference the timetable and options for your Lake Lucerne experience here.
Mount Rigi
Mount Rigi, also known as “Queen of the Mountains” is one of my all time favorite excursions from Lucerne. I’ve been at least a dozen times and each time I’m still in awe of the breathtaking views.
Although, Mt. Rigi is not actually located in Lucerne, it is one of the top “must do” excursions and it is easily accessible by boat, train, bus or car. Traveling by car, it is a 33 minute drive from Lucerne to Vitznau. Though, there are multiple ways to travel to Rigi, we always enjoy taking the cogwheel train from Vitznau up to Mt. Rigi. Click on this link and you will find the various aeriel cablecars as well as the cogwheel train to access Mt. Rigi.
The other mode of transportation that I love to take to reach Mt. Rigi, is by ferry which is roughly a 55-60 minute boat ride. The time passes incredibly fast, as you enjoy taking in the beauty of your surroundings and possibly partaking in a snack or cappuccino. Here you will find the timetable for the ferries in Lucerne.
However you decide to get there, make sure to have your camera ready as the views are absolutely amazing. Once up on the mountain there are multiple activities you can partake in. I always enjoy grabbing a snack and taking time to enjoy all the views from the highest stop, which is Rigi-Kulm. From there, if we have time we will hike down to the halfway point, which is Rigi-Kaltbad and then catch the cogwheel train back down to Vitznau. At Rigi-Kaltbad, you can also catch the cable car down to Weggis. If you have extra time or if you’re in the mood to be pampered, you will also find the Mineralbad and Spa Rigi Kaltbad.
There are also a multitude of great picturesque hiking trails on Rigi – here you will find all of your different options. The hikes range from easy to difficult. We have hiked from Rigi-Kulm to Rigi-Kaltbad which is defined as an easy hike. We have also hiked from Rigi-Kulm all the way back down to Vitznau which took about 3-3.5 hrs. (stopping to take some photos.) I would say, that would be defined as a moderate hike although, being that it is all downhill and quite steep for lengthy periods at times, I warn that it is hard on your knees, thighs and calves. We are in relatively good shape and our legs ached for the next three days. Just be prepared .. make sure to have on the proper hiking shoes, water and possibly a jacket depending on the season as the weather can change drastically.
You can rely heavily on the official Mt. Rigi website as it provides all of the information you need to organize your trip, including tickets, timetables, activities, food/drink options, parking, weather and webcams. Anytime, I’m planning to head up to the mountains I always check the weather and webcams. No need to spend hundreds of dollars if you aren’t going to see anything. Important to note, even if it is a cloudy day in Lucerne, check the webcam because often it is sunny up on the mountain.
Mount Pilatus
If you’re in Lucerne, it is impossible not to be mesmerized by the 2,132 meter (7000 ft) mountain that is an iconic sight in Lucerne. It is often hidden in plain sight in most of my photos of Lucerne, somewhat lurking (in a good way) in the background. Mount Pilatus is nicknamed “Dragon Mountain” after a medieval legend claimed it was inhabited by two dragons with healing powers.
If you have the time, a visit to Mount Pilatus is another fantastic excursion. Much like Mount Rigi, there are various ways to get to Mount Pilatus but one of the most popular is by taking the “Golden Rountrip” which gives you a bit of everything. You begin by taking a boat from Lake Lucerne to a cogwheel train to the top and then a gondola back down to catch a bus back to Lucerne. I’ve read this takes about 4.5- 5 hours. If you’re looking for a more direct route, My husband and I simply drive to Kriens and take the panoramic gondola to the top of Pilatus. The drive from Lucerne to Kriens is an easy 15 minutes.
Once on the mountain there are a plethora of activities to do. There are several restaurants, bbq pits, a rope park, summer toboggan run, hiking trails, Ibex safari, paragliding, and the Dragon Trail that explains the myth behind the nickname, “Dragon Mountain” and much more. You can reference the official Pilatus website for additional details
In addition to the sights I’ve mentioned, others you may interested in are: The Swiss Museum of Transport, Rosengart Museum, Glacial Garden and Richard Wagner Museum.
Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read this post. I hope it’s been helpful in planning your trip to Lucerne or dreaming about your future travels. If you found this post to be helpful, be sure to PIN any of the images in this post to your Pinterest board to bookmark it and share it with others! If you have any questions or comments, please drop them below as I’m always happy to help.
Cheers,
Jen
