Top 6 Things to Do in Lucerne
Covered bridges, waterfront promenades along Lake Lucerne, and a well-preserved medieval core have made Lucerne a magnet for visitors since the 19th century. We recommend spending some extra time here before joining our Hiking the Heart of Switzerland or Hiking Switzerland’s Via Alpina adventure. Here are some of the best things to do to enjoy your time in the gorgeous city of Lucerne.
1. The Museggmauer
Lucerne’s massive 14th century city wall, the Museggmauer, crowns the city’s skyline and is one of the oldest medieval fortifications in Switzerland. A steep climb up one of the spectacular watchtowers offers panoramic views over the medieval core and gleaming Lake Lucerne. The Time Tower, one of the most unusual of the wall’s watchtowers, was built in 1403 to accommodate the city’s mechanical clock. Since the late Middle Ages, someone has been tasked with winding the clock on a daily basis.
Approximate Time: About 1 hour
2. The Lion Monument
A short walk from the Old Town, you’ll come to the iconic Lion of Lucerne, carved in 1820 directly into a sandstone rock face above a serene pool. Depicting a massive male lion dying of a spear wound, it was created as a tribute to the men of the Swiss Guard who were massacred during the French Revolution. Pro tip: Go in the early morning to avoid crowds at this popular and very moving monument. You can visit the city wall on your way to or from this monument.
Approximate Time: About 1 hour
3. Spreuer Bridge
Completed in 1408, this elegant covered bridge spans the Reuss River in the Old Town and has 60 triangular paintings on its ceiling representing the Dance of Death. War and pestilence were common in medieval times and the paintings, created in 1630, were there to remind citizens to keep a healthy lifestyle and enjoy the moment.
Approximate Time: About 1 hour
4. Self-Guided Excursion on Mount Pilatus
Book a “Silver Round Trip” excursion on Mount Pilatus by rail, cogwheel railway, and aerial cableway. You’ll be riding the steepest cogwheel railway in the world and get to the summit in 30 minutes to an hour. At the top, spend as much time as you like and enjoy a short hike for unbeatable views (clouds permitting). There are restaurants at the summit. Pro tip: Book ahead to reserve your spot. It can be cold at the top so dress accordingly.
Approximate Time: About a half-day
5. Church of St. Leodegar
On the shores of Lake Lucerne, the serene, twin-towered Church of St. Leodegar (or Hofkirche) stands as one of the most important examples of Renaissance architecture in Switzerland. Not just a tourist attraction, it is a very active local Catholic church with masses held daily. The church’s distinctive towers are visible all throughout the city.
Approximate Time: About 30 minutes
6. Rosengart Museum
A must for Picasso fans. This small private museum has an important collection of Picasso’s paintings, sketches, and even sculptures, plus works by Paul Klee and others, and you can learn about the Rosengart family’s long friendship with Picasso. Perhaps the most distinct Picassos are those from his late years, including paintings and pen-and-ink drawings from 1967 to 1972, the year before the artist died at 91.
Approximate Time: About 1 hour
Pair your time in Lucerne with one of our fantastic guided trips in Switzerland. From pristine meadows brimming with wildflowers to soaring peaks that inspired the world’s first mountaineers, Switzerland is the ideal setting for active hiking adventures. We offer trips at every ability level (many with two hiking options each day) and follow innovative routes that explore remote mountain villages. Lace up your hiking boots and join us!
May 7, 2024
