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Planning a quick getaway to Lucerne? This itinerary is exactly what you need.
Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities, packed with lakeside views, charming Old Town streets, and easy access to jaw-dropping mountain scenery. But with limited time, it helps to have a plan so you can experience the best of it without feeling rushed. That’s where we come in!
We’ve crafted two easy-to-follow itinerary options based on our own time in Lucerne: one for history and city lovers, and one for mountain and scenery chasers. Plus, if you’ve got an extra day, we’ve included a full-day tour to Jungfraujoch that’s worth every minute. Mix and match based on your travel style, or follow it all for an unforgettable trip!
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 was this Mt Pilatus and Lake Lucerne tour! We loved exploring the stunning mountain, riding the world’s steepest cogwheel train, and then relaxing on a Lake Lucerne cruise and learning about Lucerne from our guide.
Day 1
With such a short time in Lucerne, it helps to have a solid game plan. We’ve come up with two great ways to spend your day. One option is perfect for travelers who love history and culture, while the other is all about getting outside and experiencing Switzerland’s famous mountain scenery.
Option 1
Breakfast – tibits Luzern
Tucked inside Lucerne’s main train station, tibits Luzern is a convenient and casual spot for a quick vegetarian breakfast before your day gets going. The buffet-style setup makes it easy to choose exactly what you’re craving, whether that’s something fresh and light or a more filling plate.
Since it opens at 7:30 am, you’ll have more than enough time to eat before the 9 am tour. And with the meeting point just across the street, it’s a stress-free way to start your Lucerne itinerary.
Morning – Explore the city and countryside on an electric cargo bike
After breakfast, we recommend joining this 9 am e-bike tour. It’s a fun and easy way to see a different side of Lucerne without the crowds. You’ll meet your guide at the Caritas Velostation just near the train station, and from the moment you hop on the electric cargo bikes, everything feels relaxed and effortless, even if you’re not a regular cyclist.
The route takes you through peaceful neighborhoods, past historic architecture, and out along the Horwer Peninsula where Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus steal the show. One of the highlights was pulling over for a lakeside snack break with panoramic views that looked straight out of a travel brochure.
The bikes are a breeze to use, and the pace is easy, with plenty of stops for photos and quirky local stories along the way. Having a local guide makes the whole experience even better with their upbeat energy and trivia-filled commentary, including a funny “immigration test” at the end where we earned our honorary Swiss passports.
This tour is the ideal way to explore Lucerne beyond the typical tourist trail. But don’t just take our word for it—read HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews here and see why it’s one of the most loved experiences in Lucerne!
Book this popular tour here and explore Lucerne like a local!
Lunch – Seebistro LUZ
The tour should wrap up around noon, making it the perfect time to head to Seebistro LUZ for lunch. Just a quick two-minute drive from the tour’s endpoint, this relaxed lakefront spot is ideal after a morning of riding. You’ll definitely have earned a good meal by now!
With panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger. Grab a table on the terrace if the weather’s cooperating and enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes while soaking in the scenery. It’s a calm, scenic break before jumping into your afternoon plans.
Afternoon – Learn about the city’s history, see top sights, and cruise on Lake Lucerne
After lunch, this small-group walking and lake cruise tour is the perfect way to spend your afternoon in Lucerne. It’s a relaxed but well-organized experience that hits all the major highlights, without making you feel rushed or overloaded with info.
We started with a scenic walk through Old Town, crossing Chapel Bridge and winding past painted facades, fountains, and the famous Lion Monument.
Our guide, Isabella, was warm, knowledgeable, and full of stories that made the city come alive. She pointed out little details we never would’ve noticed on our own, and her route included quiet corners alongside the big sights like Spreuerbrücke and the Musegg Wall.
Then came our favorite part: a peaceful one-hour boat cruise on Lake Lucerne. With fresh mountain air and postcard-worthy views of the Alps all around, it was the perfect reset after a morning of exploring.
The 2 pm time gives you a relaxed pace for the afternoon and plenty of daylight for incredible lake views. We went with the snack upgrade, and it totally hit the spot with juicy white alpine sausages and a warm pretzel with homemade mustard. But no matter which option you choose, this tour is a win!
Whether you go with the classic walk-and-cruise combo, add a cheese and wine tasting, or keep it simple with the two-hour walking tour. Each version offers a unique way to explore Lucerne, and you really can’t go wrong. It’s the perfect blend of history, scenery, and laid-back adventure!
Book this tour in advance here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Option 2
Morning – Explore the Old City
Before your 12:30 pm tour, grab a quick breakfast and spend the morning wandering through Lucerne’s beautifully preserved Old Town. You don’t need a strict plan here, just enjoy the mix of cobblestone streets, pastel-painted buildings, and waterfront views. And don’t worry if you miss anything on this list, you’ll likely pass by many of these landmarks again after dark when they’re beautifully lit.
- Kornmarkt – Start your morning in Kornmarkt, the lively heart of Lucerne’s Old Town. This historic square is home to the beautiful Rathaus (Town Hall) and is surrounded by charming painted facades. It’s a great spot to get your bearings, people-watch, and snap a few photos to kick off your day.
- Jesuit Church – Just a short walk from Kornmarkt, the Jesuit Church is one of Lucerne’s most striking Baroque landmarks. The white exterior is beautiful, but it’s the ornate stucco ceilings and calm interior that really make it worth a visit. It’s a peaceful place to pause and soak in a bit of serenity before continuing.
- Lion Monument – Carved directly into a sandstone cliff, the Lion Monument honors the Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution. It’s tucked inside a quiet, shaded park and has a surprisingly emotional presence for such a small space. This quick stop offers a meaningful moment amid your morning sightseeing.
- Chapel Bridge – This 14th-century wooden bridge is easily one of Lucerne’s most photographed landmarks. As you walk across, look up to admire the historic paintings that line the roof, each one telling a piece of the city’s story. The flower-lined edges and river views make it a must-see, day or night.
- Museggmauer (City Walls) – These medieval walls once protected the city, and today they offer one of the best panoramic views in Lucerne. Several towers are open to visitors, and climbing them gives you a unique look at the rooftops, the lake, and the surrounding Alps. It’s a short workout, but the views are totally worth the effort.
Afternoon – Visit Mt Pilatus, ride the cable car, and cruise Lake Lucerne
Trying to plan a big mountain outing on your own, especially with limited time, can get overwhelming fast. Between transport connections, tickets, and weather timing, it’s easy to waste half the day just sorting out logistics. That’s why this guided half-day trip to Mt. Pilatus was such a great choice.
After a 15-minute walk from Chapel Bridge to the meeting point, we boarded a comfortable coach and let the day unfold without a hitch. I recommend grabbing a quick lunch beforehand, since the tour runs straight through the afternoon and you’ll want to be fully fueled before heading up.
The experience kicks off with a 30-minute gondola ride from Kriens through lush hills, followed by a short trip on the Dragon Ride aerial cableway to the summit at 7,000 feet (2,134 meters).
At the top, you’ll have free time to enjoy the panoramic views, take a short hike, or just relax on the terrace. Then, descend on the world’s steepest cogwheel train, winding past dramatic cliffs and alpine meadows. The day wraps up with a peaceful 1-hour cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering one last perspective of the stunning scenery.
We loved how effortless this tour felt—no ticket lines, no decisions to make, just a smooth, scenic adventure led by a friendly guide. It’s a must-do if you want to experience the Swiss Alps in just one afternoon with zero stress!
Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Dinner – Mill’Feuille
No matter how you spend your day, you’ll likely be ready to slow down and enjoy a good meal by evening. If you’re not quite hungry right after your tour, take your time wandering through Lucerne’s Old Town. Walking across Chapel Bridge is a scenic and easy way to reach the center, especially with the warm glow of the city lights reflecting off the water.
Once you’ve explored a bit, head to Mill’Feuille, a stylish yet laid-back spot overlooking the Reuss River. Its cozy interior and riverside terrace make it the perfect place to unwind and reflect on your day. The menu leans modern and seasonal, with a Swiss twist, making it a great option for a casual-but-quality dinner in Lucerne.
Evening – Enjoy the nightlife
Lucerne doesn’t shut down after sunset. In fact, the city takes on a whole new charm once the lights come on. You can keep things low-key with a peaceful stroll past illuminated landmarks like Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument, which look especially beautiful lit up at night.
If you’re in the mood for a drink, you’ve got great options. For something cozy and laid-back, head to Louis Bar, a warm, wood-paneled spot known for its impressive drink selection and mellow vibe. Prefer something livelier? Penthouse Roof Top Bar delivers sweeping views of the city skyline along with creative drinks and a buzzier atmosphere.
Whether you end your day with a nightcap or a moonlit walk, Lucerne’s evening energy is well worth experiencing!
Related Read: Looking for more fun things to do in Lucerne? Check out our 8 favorite things to do in Lucerne here!
Day 2
Take a full-day tour to the top of Europe at Jungfraujoch Railway Station
An adventure to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is the kind of experience you dream about when planning a trip to Switzerland. But between train transfers, cableways, and connections, it can quickly turn into a logistical headache. That’s why we booked this full-day guided tour from Lucerne, and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable days of our entire trip.
The day starts with a 9:30 am meet-up right outside Lucerne’s main train station, so be sure to grab breakfast ahead of time and plan to arrive early. From there, you’ll hop on a coach for a scenic ride to Lauterbrunnen, where the real adventure begins.
We boarded the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch and ascended through alpine valleys, sheer cliffs, and glacier-sculpted peaks that only got more dramatic with each turn.
At the summit, we explored the surreal Ice Palace, stepped out onto the Sphinx Observation Terrace, and took in sweeping views of the Aletsch Glacier. On clear days, you can even spot France and Italy in the distance!
The descent on the V-Cableway Eiger Express was just as stunning, gliding silently through the mountains in a modern, glass-walled gondola. And with our guide Raymond handling all the details, we didn’t have to stress about a single train change or timetable.
Everything ran smoothly, the views were out of this world, and having it all taken care of was truly priceless. It’s easy to see why this tour has so many five-star reviews—once you experience it, you’ll be raving about it too!
Reserve this full-day tour now and pay later when you book it here!
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.
Dinner – Jazzkantine zum Graben
After a full day in the mountains, settle in for a fun and flavorful evening at Jazzkantine zum Graben. This cozy Old Town spot serves a fixed menu that changes often, and honestly, that’s part of the fun. You don’t have to overthink your order, and it’s a great way to try something new (plus, the rave reviews speak for themselves).
The vibe is warm and welcoming, and if you’re lucky, you might catch some live jazz while you eat. It’s the kind of place where the food is creative, the music is laid-back, and the whole experience feels a little special without being fussy—the perfect place to wrap up your time in Lucerne!
Where to Stay in Lucerne
Now that you have the perfect Lucerne itinerary, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! 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 – $$$
Set on the edge of Lake Lucerne, Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is a 5-star family-owned gem that combines old-world charm with modern luxury. Each room is uniquely inspired by past celebrity guests and offers views of the lake, mountains, or historic Old Town. With a panoramic spa, elegant restaurants, and a location just minutes from the train station, it’s a standout choice for exploring Lucerne in style.
Rates typically range from about €640 to €1,500 (CHF 600 to CHF 1,400) per night. Browse rooms and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-Range – $$
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 €215 to €320 (CHF 200 to 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 €120 (CHF 110), and dorm beds at about €50 (CHF 46). Visit Booking.com to reserve your spot!
For more options, see all of Lucerne’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: If your travels start in Zurich, find the perfect place to stay with our Where to Stay in Zurich guide!
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!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Whether you’re looking for a mountain escape or to dive into the charming history of Lucerne, you will have a fantastic few days here! We fell in love with the cobblestone streets and mountain views, plus Lake Lucerne is simply stunning. If you follow this itinerary exactly, or pick and choose your favorite activities, Lucerne won’t disappoint.
Before you go, check out our other Europe blogs. We have tons of resources to share with fellow travelers, whether you are looking for more city itineraries, the best places to stay, or top things to do. Here are a few blogs to get you started:
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