Things to do in Lucerne
Discover the best attractions and experiences Lucerne has to offer
Historic Monuments
Lucerne’s skyline is defined by its enduring landmarks, from medieval bridges to monumental sculptures along the Reuss river.
Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge)
A 14th‑century wooden covered bridge spanning the Reuss, famous for its painted history panels.
Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument)
A striking sculpture carved into sandstone memorializing Swiss Guards who died in 1792.
Museggmauer
The preserved medieval city walls with towers offering sweeping views over Lucerne.
Museums
Lucerne wears its art, history and tech on its sleeve with world‑class collections and interactive displays.
Rosengart Collection
A compact modern-art collection featuring Picasso, Klee and other 20th‑century masters.
Historisches Museum Luzern
Exhibits exploring the city’s history, culture and daily life through the ages.
Verkehrshaus der Schweiz
Switzerland’s renowned transport museum with hands‑on exhibits and a planetarium.
Religious Monuments
Lucerne’s sacred sites reveal Baroque grandeur and tranquil cloisters set above the river.
Hofkirche St. Leodegar
A grand Baroque church perched above the Reuss with a serene interior.
Jesuitenkirche Luzern
A lavish Baroque church known for its ornate façade and interior.
National & Theme Parks
Step into alpine scenery with easy access to dramatic hills and panoramic viewpoints around Lucerne.
Mount Pilatus
A classic excursion by cogwheel train or cable car offering sweeping lake and mountain vistas.
Mount Rigi
The Queen of the Mountains, famed for its railway and panoramic summit views.
Neighborhoods
Explore Lucerne’s character through its distinct districts, each with its own vibe and riverside charm.
Altstadt Luzern (Old Town)
Historic center with frescoed houses, cobbled lanes and lakeside views.
Tribschen (Tribschen)
Quaint residential area by the lake with traditional houses and riverside paths.
Seefeld
Lakefront neighborhood known for peaceful promenades and cafés.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Lucerne without spending a franc on entry tickets with scenic strolls and open-air views.
Walk the Seepromenade (lake promenade)
Stroll along the lake with views across the water to the mountains.
Explore the Museggmauer city walls
Where you can walk among historic towers for free and take in the city.
Old Town stroll
Wander the frescoed houses of the UNESCO‑listed Altstadt and the charming lanes.
Admire Kapellbrücke from the banks
See the Chapel Bridge from scenic riverfront viewpoints at no cost.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Swiss flavors from fondue to local Luzerner specialties.
Fondue
A quintessential Swiss dish of melted cheese served with bread for dipping.
Rösti
Crispy Swiss potato dish often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or side.
Luzerner Chügelipastetli
A traditional Luzern meat pastry with aromatic herbs and pastry crust.
Swiss chocolate tasting
Sample world‑famous Swiss chocolates at a pastry or chocolate shop.
Nightlife
Evenings in Lucerne are lively with riverside bars, live music and atmospheric venues.
Bars and pubs around the Old Town
Casual spots where you can chat and enjoy a local beer.
KKL Luzern concerts
Evening concerts or shows at Lucerne’s renowned concert hall.
Evening lake cruise
Sunset or night cruises on Lake Lucerne for a relaxed night out.
Entertainment
The city offers theatre, concerts and cultural happenings throughout the year.
Lucerne Theatre (Theater Luzern)
Central stage for plays, opera and ballet performances.
KKL Luzern – concerts & events
A premier venue for major concerts and shows.
Seasonal street performances in Old Town
Pop-up performances and cultural happenings in the historic streets.
Sports
Active options surround the city, from mountains to water sports on the lake.
Pilatus hike and cable car
Trek or ride to the mountain’s summit for alpine views.
Rigi summit hike or cable car
Explore the easy to moderate trails with sweeping panoramas.
Stand‑up paddleboarding on Lake Lucerne
Water sport sessions on the lake with city views.
Off the Track
Discover lesser‑known experiences and nearby day trips from Lucerne.
Five Fingers viewing platform (Hammetschwand, Buergenstock)
Dramatic viewpoint reached by short ascent for panoramic lake and Alps views.
Hammetschwand Elevator
Experience Europe’s highest outdoor elevator with views at the top.
Day trip to Weggis
Relaxing lakeside town across the water with easy access to quiet trails.