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Planning a trip to Lucerne, Switzerland? You’re in the right place!
Lucerne is the kind of place that grabs you from the moment you arrive—mountain views, cobblestone streets, and a lake so still it feels unreal. We fell for this lakeside gem on our first visit and have since come back more than once to soak in its charm, explore its alpine surroundings, and get lost (in a good way) in the Old Town.
Whether you’re dreaming of summiting snowy peaks, cruising across Lake Lucerne, or indulging in Swiss cheese and chocolate, this guide pulls together the best ways to experience it all—without the guesswork. Let’s explore this amazing city!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Lucerne was this day trip to the top of Europe! It goes to the highest railway station in Europe via scenic drive and cogwheel train. There’s an ice palace, a sleek gondola, and breathtaking views everywhere!
It can be challenging to plan all this on your own, so this day trip made it easy!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Lucerne, Switzerland
- 1. Reach the top of Europe at Jungfraujoch Railway Station
- 2. Explore Lucerne with a walking and boat tour
- 3. Ride the world’s first revolving cable car at Mt Titlis
- 4. See Lucerne’s top sights on an electric cargo bike
- 5. Visit Mt. Pilatus, take a boat trip, and ride in a gondola and cable car
- 6. Have an ultimate Swiss day: taste cheese and chocolate, see castles and chapels
- 7. Explore Mount Rigi
- 8. Experience the Swiss countryside with a local guide
- Where to Stay in Lucerne, Switzerland
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Lucerne, Switzerland
1. Reach the top of Europe at Jungfraujoch Railway Station
- Duration: 9.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Enjoy a scenic drive through the magnificent Swiss Alps, discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch and take in spectacular panoramic mountain views, ride a cogwheel train and the V-Cableway Eiger Express
- Inclusions: Professional guide, cogwheel train ride, V-Cableway Eiger Express ride, air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 775+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Planning a DIY trip to Jungfraujoch sounded appealing at first. But figuring out the timing between trains, the cableway, and connections ended up being more stressful than we’d imagined. That’s why booking this full-day guided tour from Lucerne was the best decision—everything was taken care of, and we just got to sit back and enjoy the ride.
The day started with a scenic coach drive to Lauterbrunnen, where we boarded the cogwheel train for a jaw-dropping ascent through Kleine Scheidegg. The views just kept getting better with every turn—glacier-carved valleys, rugged cliffs, and alpine meadows that looked straight out of a postcard.
At the top of the 11,333-foot/3,454-meter-high mountain pass, we wandered through the surreal Ice Palace, stood on the Sphinx Observation Terrace, and stared out at the Aletsch Glacier stretching endlessly below. On a clear day, you can even spot mountain peaks in France and Italy!
Afterward, we took the new V-Cableway Eiger Express—a sleek, fast-moving gondola with floor-to-ceiling windows that sent us down the mountain in just 15 minutes. Gliding through the alpine scenery in that quiet, glass cabin was the perfect way to wrap up the day!
Our guide, Raymond, made the experience even better. He was fun and organized and kept us all together, even through train changes and the V-Cableway ride.
The logistics were smooth, the views were unbelievable, and we didn’t have to check a schedule once. That alone was worth it!
Book this full-day tour here and see the Swiss Alps from a new perspective!
2. Explore Lucerne with a walking and boat tour
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Time: 11 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Explore Lucerne by foot and boat (depending on option selected), hit top attractions, including the Chapel Bridge and Lucerne Castle, and gain insight into centuries of Swiss history
- Inclusions: Local guide, two-hour walking city tour, one-hour sightseeing cruise (if option selected), Swiss cheese tasting (if option selected), alpine sausages, pretzel, and drinks (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Lucerne is a stunning city—but trying to see it all in one day without a plan is a quick way to waste your time wandering in circles. This small-group walking and boat tour gave us a clear, easy way to explore the highlights while still feeling relaxed and unhurried.
We started with a walk across Chapel Bridge, hearing stories about its past while admiring the rooftops of the Old Town.
Our guide, Isabella, was a gem—she not only hit all the big sights like the Lion Monument and Spreuerbrücke but also pointed out little corners and details we definitely would’ve missed on our own. Winding through cobblestone lanes lined with painted facades and flower-box windows felt like walking through a storybook version of old Switzerland.
The stroll along the Musegg Wall was a standout with its medieval towers and sweeping alpine views. Then came the one-hour boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, with cool mountain air, calm water, and panoramic views that made us fall even more in love with the city.
For an even richer experience, there’s also an option to include some local food and drinks, which we highly recommend. The white alpine sausage was juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection!
This was by far our favorite tour in Lucerne! It was the perfect mix of history, scenery, and chill exploration, and we would do it again in a heartbeat.
Make the most of your time in Lucerne and secure this walking and boat tour here!
3. Ride the world’s first revolving cable car at Mt Titlis
- Duration: 3–5 hours
- Time: Open hours from 8:30 am–4 pm
- Highlights: Round-trip ticket to Mount Titlis, walk across Europe’s highest suspension bridge, enjoy access to the 5,000-year-old Glacier Cave and Ice Flyer chair lift, ride down the slopes on snow tubes, balancers, snake gliss, or mini bobs, browse for mountain souvenirs at the station shops
- Inclusions: Visit to Titlis Cliff Walk and Glacier Cave, ticket for the Ice Flyer chair lift, round-trip revolving cable car ticket
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 260+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Mount Titlis is a snow-covered playground year-round, but trying to squeeze it all in without a game plan? You’ll miss half the fun. This Mount Titlis excursion was worth every penny and gave us the time (and tips) to make the most of every stop.
It all started with a smooth ride from Engelberg on the new eight-seater cable car. The views just kept getting better as we climbed higher: green pastures gave way to rocky cliffs and then snow-covered peaks.
At the top, we switched to the Titlis Rotair, the world’s first revolving cable car. Spinning slowly as we rose toward the summit, we had 360-degree views of the Alps without needing to move.
Once at the top, we did it all: crossed the heart-racing Titlis Cliff Walk, explored the icy tunnels of the Glacier Cave, and flew over deep crevasses on the Ice Flyer chair lift. The tubing at Glacier Park was way more fun than expected. We laughed like kids all the way down!
Before heading back, we even grabbed Swiss chocolate ice cream and a spicy shrimp tom yum ramen, at our own expense, from one of the restaurants at the summit station. Both totally hit the spot! We also picked up the coolest glacier-themed snow globe that now lives on our shelf at home.
Just get there early, take your time, and enjoy every minute—this was the ultimate way to experience Titlis from top to bottom!
Reserve this tour here and see the best of Lucerne’s glacier world for yourself!
4. See Lucerne’s top sights on an electric cargo bike
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Explore Lucerne’s Swiss villages and hidden gems on specialized electric cargo bikes, pass by historic buildings, Lake Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, and the Swiss Alps, and cruise around the Horwer Peninsula
- Inclusions: Guide, bicycle
- Rating: 5 stars (check 280+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Lucerne is gorgeous, but the crowds around the main attractions can get a little intense. This small-group e-bike tour was the exact break we needed—fun, interactive, and filled with behind-the-scenes stories and sights we wouldn’t have found on our own.
We met up with our guide, Anthony, at the Caritas Velostation near the train station, and from the moment we started riding, the vibe was easy and upbeat. And the electric cargo bikes were super simple to use, even for beginners.
We cruised through quiet neighborhoods, past historic buildings, and along paths with open views of Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus. One of our favorite parts was stopping near the lake for a Swiss snack while soaking in the mountain views.
The ride along the Horwer Peninsula was just as scenic, with plenty of chances to hop off and snap photos of the stunning landscape—rolling green hills, peaceful lakeside views, and snow-capped peaks in the distance made it feel like we were pedaling through a postcard.
Anthony was full of fun and local knowledge and clearly loved showing off his city. From quirky Swiss trivia to the final “immigration test,” where we earned our honorary Swiss passports, the whole tour was a blast from start to finish.
But don’t just take our word for it—check out hundreds of 5-star reviews here and see why travelers rave about this experience!
Book this popular tour here and explore Lucerne like a local!
Related Read: Planning a trip can be hard. Luckily, we made this detailed Lucerne itinerary to make it easier for you!
5. Visit Mt. Pilatus, take a boat trip, and ride in a gondola and cable car
- Duration: 4–6 hours
- Time: Open hours 8:30 am–5:30 pm
- Highlights: Half-day tour of Lake Lucerne, Mt. Pilatus, and Fräkmüntegg, lake cruise, ride up the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the summit of Mt. Pilatus, take a cruise on the aerial Dragon Ride cable car
- Inclusions: Lake cruise, cogwheel railway, gondola, and aerial cableway Dragon Ride tickets, public bus between Lucerne main station and Kriens
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 190+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Lucerne’s scenery is incredible from just about anywhere—but this half-day trip to Mt. Pilatus gave us a front-row seat from every angle: lake, land, and sky. It was, hands-down, the most scenic day we had in Switzerland!
The day started with a peaceful cruise across Lake Lucerne. Gliding past storybook villages and forested slopes, it felt like we were heading straight into a painting.
After hopping off at Alpnachstad, we grabbed a quick snack at the cozy chalet-style restaurant (at our own expense) before boarding the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. The views from the train were unreal—alpine meadows, mountain streams, and wildflowers surrounded us the entire way to the summit.
At the top of Mt. Pilatus, we had time to explore the panoramic gallery, relax on the sun terrace, and hike to a nearby peak for even better views. You could see all the way to the distant snow-covered Alps, with Lake Lucerne sparkling below.
Then came the descent: first on the Dragon Ride aerial cable car (it lives up to the name!) and then the gondola down to Kriens, floating above green hills and pine forests. If you want a bit of an adrenaline rush, you can also stop at Fräkmüntegg to check out the rope park or playground.
The best part is that the route is flexible. You can choose whether to start with the boat ride, head straight into the mountains, spend more time at the summit, or take a longer break for lunch—it’s completely up to you!
See Switzerland’s mountains from every angle and secure this half-day tour here!
6. Have an ultimate Swiss day: taste cheese and chocolate, see castles and chapels
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 1 pm
- Highlights: Small-group tour to taste chocolate and cheese, discover castles and chapels, try up to five different types of Swiss chocolate, sample local cheese, hear the history of Chapel Bridge, and visit Lucerne Castle with a prebooked ticket
- Inclusions: Chocolate and cheese tasting, one-hour Lake Lucerne cruise ticket (if option selected), Chapel Bridge and Water Tower visit, Lucerne Castle elevator ticket
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Trying to pack Swiss history, iconic views, and local flavors into one afternoon on your own is a lot trickier (and more overwhelming) than you’d think. That’s why we loved this small-group tour—it effortlessly blended sightseeing, stories, and tastings into one unforgettable experience.
We met our guide, Luis, near the Old Town, and from the very start, he had us laughing and learning. He was full of great local stories and took us to some of the most photogenic spots in the city, including the famous Chapel Bridge and the riverfront.
We sampled five types of authentic Swiss chocolate and three varieties of alpine cheese, each paired with a local drink that really elevated the tasting. There was just the right mix of indulgence and insight—and a few surprises we definitely weren’t expecting!
Then came the short elevator ride up to Lucerne Castle, where we were treated to sweeping views over the city, lake, and snow-capped Alps. The scenery alone was worth it—but pairing it with chocolate and cheese was even better!
There is also an option that includes a sightseeing cruise on Lake Lucerne after the tour, which we definitely recommend. Relaxing on the water with the mountains in the background was the perfect way to wrap up the afternoon!
This tour was a blast from start to finish and made us feel like we got a real taste of Lucerne—literally and figuratively. If you want culture, views, and chocolate all in one afternoon, this one is a no-brainer!
Reserve this small-group tour here and get flexible payment options!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Explore Mount Rigi
- Duration: 3–7 hours
- Time: Open hours from 8 am–5 pm
- Highlights: Day pass for transport on Switzerland’s Mount Rigi, unlimited rides on two cogwheel railways and two aerial cable cars, hiking on 74.5 miles (120 kilometers) of trails in summer or skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter
- Inclusions: Rides on the cogwheel train from Vitznau–Rigi Kulm and the cogwheel train from Goldau–Rigi Kulm, rides on the cable car from Weggis–Rigi Kaltbad and the cable car from Kräbel–Scheidegg, all taxes and fees
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We love a good all-in-one ticket—especially when it opens the door to endless trails, mountaintop views, and spontaneous stops along the way. This Mount Rigi day pass was exactly that kind of ticket. With access to cogwheel trains, cable cars, and scenic stops across the region, it gave us total freedom to explore at our own pace.
We started by riding the cogwheel train up from Vitznau to Rigi Kulm. The views were spectacular the entire way up, offering a unique perspective of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding area.
From there, we walked down to Rigi Kaltbad, passing epic viewpoints and enjoying long stretches of quiet open trail. Every turn seemed to reveal another postcard-perfect shot, and we barely saw another soul on the way down.
We warmed up at the mineral spa with a hot stone massage—easily the most relaxing reward after a day of exploring. Then came the cable car ride to Weggis, gliding over forested hills with panoramic views of the lake and mountains below.
Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, this pass is your key to a flexible, scenic day out—just hop on, hop off, and enjoy the best of Mount Rigi!
Book your Mount Rigi day pass here and design your own perfect alpine adventure!
8. Experience the Swiss countryside with a local guide
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Private customized tour of the Bernese Oberland, visit villages in the Oberland region while passing the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau peaks, learn about Swiss culture while stopping at gorges, lakes, mountains, and waterfalls
- Inclusions: Private driver/guide, pickup and drop-off at your Lucerne hotel, transport by air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, water
- Rating: 5 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Trying to see the best of the Swiss countryside without a car (or a clue where to start) can leave you stuck on timetables instead of trails. That’s why this full-day private tour of the Bernese Oberland was the dream solution—it let us cover tons of ground with none of the stress, and every stop felt like a hidden gem.
We were picked up at our hotel in Lucerne and spent the day with our guide, Chris, who couldn’t have been better. He shared stories about Swiss culture, drove us through postcard-worthy valleys, and timed our stops so well that we were never in a rush.
We started with a photo stop at Lake Lungern, then walked through the dramatic Aare Gorge with its crashing river and sheer cliffs. Later, we stood looking down at the thundering Trummelbach Falls and had lunch, at our own expense, at a 200-year-old hotel with incredible lake views.
In Brienz, we strolled cobbled lanes lined with woodcarver shops and traditional chalets before driving through Lauterbrunnen Valley and hiking to Staubbach Falls—which was totally worth it! Then, at Trümmelbach Falls, we went inside the mountain to watch 10 roaring glacier waterfalls crashing through rock tunnels and finished the day surrounded by snow-capped peaks in Isenfluh.
This was the most personalized and scenic of all the tours we did in Lucerne! Just read the glowing 5-star reviews here and see why this private tour is such a standout experience.
Check out all the incredible stops and reserve this private tour here!
Where to Stay in Lucerne, Switzerland
Lucerne is a charming lakeside city with stunning mountain views, cobblestone streets, and a relaxed, walkable vibe. Whether you’re here for the historic Old Town, scenic boat rides on Lake Lucerne, or day trips into the Swiss Alps, choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference.
To help narrow it down, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Lucerne—from luxury lakefront hotels to budget-friendly hostels—so you can spend less time searching and more time soaking up everything this beautiful Swiss city has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
Set on the edge of Lake Lucerne, Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is a 5-star family-owned gem that combines old-world charm with modern luxury. Each room is uniquely inspired by past celebrity guests and offers views of the lake, mountains, or historic Old Town. With a panoramic spa, elegant restaurants, and a location just minutes from the train station, it’s a standout choice for exploring Lucerne in style.
Rates typically range from about CHF 600 to CHF 1,400 per night. Browse rooms and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-Range – $$
Boutique Hotel KARL is a stylish mid-range option right in the heart of Lucerne’s Old Town. Set between the Reuss River and the Musegg Wall, the hotel offers scenic views of Mt. Pilatus and the river from many rooms. Inside, expect sleek, modern decor paired with warm hospitality, plus a generous breakfast buffet each morning. Rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, and some even include a balcony to enjoy those postcard-worthy views.
Prices range from around CHF 200–CHF 300 per night. Check availability for your dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget-friendly accommodation in Lucerne, Backpackers Luzern is a great choice! Located right on the lake and a short walk from the city center, this hostel offers dorm beds and simple but comfy private rooms—many with balconies. Guests can cook in the shared kitchen, relax in the lounge with a foosball table, and enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a peaceful location without paying luxury prices.
Private rooms start at around CHF 110, and dorm beds at about CHF 46. Visit Booking.com to reserve your spot!
For more options, see all of Lucerne’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: For some more great hotel recommendations and a breakdown of the best areas in Lucerne, check out our detailed Where to Stay guide here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Exploring Lucerne is sure to be a highlight of your time in Switzerland! We fell in love with this city because of its charming Old Town, epic scenery, and of course, the famous Swiss chocolate and cheese. Hopefully, this list has helped you narrow down the must-dos for your own trip here.
If you’re planning to explore more, have a look through all our blogs on Switzerland or the rest of Europe here for more tips and tricks. I also put a few below that might come in handy!
How to Spend ONE or TWO Days in Lucerne, Switzerland: 1 or 2 Day Itinerary
7 BEST Things to do in Zurich, Switzerland