The Essentials
Lucerne, along with Interlaken are part of the Golden Tour, which means both cities tend to be busy with tourists and tour groups. So make sure you do some research on what you want to do and see so you’re not left out of luck for some reason. That said I had no issue using my Swiss Travel Pass for all the things I wanted to do an had no issues with giant lines or waits anywhere.
See my 8 Pro Tips for Visiting Switzerland for some good-to-know tips to help plan your visit.
Arriving in Lucerne
Getting to Lucerne from Zurich or another surrounding city is likely the best option by train, the Swiss transit system is quick and efficient and you won’t be sorry you took a scenic ride on a train from city to city. The train station is simply laid out with good access to boats and the rest of the city.
Seeing in Lucerne
Lucerne is a great place to launch into the epicness that is Swiss nature. With destinations like Rigi just a quick boat ride and a train up a mountain away – you’ll have lots to explore at your fingertips. I recommend getting to Rigi early as it tends to get busy as the day goes on. The fewer people at the top the more likely you’ll be to capture some great photos without folks getting in your way.
Keep in mind that you are going atop a mountain, it will be cooler, foggier and weather changes, so be prepared for whatever might happen in the season you go. I visited in September and it was pretty warm still, I went in shorts and a sweater and was fine. I also experienced fog, so visibility was limited to my immediate surroundings.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn4LcGdBdw4
You can’t miss the tower and bridge at the center of town nor would you want to. Built in the 1,300’s this iconic bridge and tower is a great spot to snap some photos for Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnzItzKHelj
Staying in Lucerne
Lucerne is a smaller city with some unique properties to stay in. It’s not a huge city so if you’re staying in the central area you’ll be close to most things like the train station, transportation, and food.
- AMERON Hotel – with a great location just steps away from the main train station and easy transit, you’ll also find the Chapel Bridge right down the street. Nice staff, good service, and a clean modern room will keep you happy.
- Hotel Château Gütsch – for a more unique experience the Hotel Château Gütsch is situated on top of a hill overlooking Lucerne. Make sure you arrange transportation to and from since it’s really up a hill.