Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

The most interesting and beautiful tourist sites in Lucerne

Photos, reviews, descriptions, and links to maps

About Lucerne

Lucerne is nestled among the pastoral landscapes of central Switzerland. It is surrounded by mountains, alpine meadows and green valleys. The city is situated on the shores of the lake of the same name with clear mountain water and picturesque residential shores.

Lucerne is as exemplary and prosperous a city as Zurich, Geneva or Bern. Visitors will love walking along the old wooden bridges and cobbled squares, sitting in sidewalk cafes and contemplating the architecture of the Lutheran cathedrals.

Perhaps the most important reason why travellers come here is the natural landscapes of extraordinary beauty that surround the city. A climb to the top of Pilatus or a walk on the mirror-like waters of Lake Fyrwaldstätte is worth it!

Top-25 Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

Chapel Bridge

 4.7/5

27643 reviews

A wooden bridge over the River Royse, built in 1365. Over the course of seven centuries, many of its structures were replaced, and in 1993, after a severe fire, almost nothing remained of it. Nevertheless, renewed and opened in 1994, the Kapelbrücke is considered the oldest wooden bridge in Europe. It is also the symbol of Lucerne and an iconic landmark. Under its roof are 111 paintings (78 of them restored after a fire) with scenes from Swiss history.

Open time

Lake Lucerne

 4.8/5

1288 reviews

The water body is also known as Lake Lucerne. It is located in central Switzerland on the territory of several cantons at an altitude of 434 metres above sea level. The shores of the lake are a picturesque and inhabited area, which is called “the cradle of Switzerland”. There are about 30 different species of fish here, which makes the place quite popular with fishing enthusiasts.

Lion Monument

 4.4/5

18562 reviews

A sculptural group dedicated to the fallen Swiss who defended the Tuileries Palace in 1792 during the events of the French Revolution. The monument was created in 1821 by sculptor L. Achorn after a sketch by another famous master B. Thorvaldsen. The monument is a high relief carved into a rock ledge, depicting a mighty lion in the last moments of his life.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Spreuerbrücke

 4.7/5

3792 reviews

An early 15th century bridge which, like the Kapelbrücke, is also made of wood. Its covered gallery contains a series of unique 17th-century paintings united by a common idea called “the dance of Death” (this subject was quite popular during the dark period of the Middle Ages). The Sproerbrücke was severely damaged during the floods of the 16th century, but it was later completely rebuilt.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Lucerne Needle Dam

 4.7/5

321 reviews

A hydraulic structure on the river Rois, built in the 1860s to maintain the water level in Lake Fyrwaldstedt. The dam was constructed of wooden gate stakes, which are raised and lowered manually. This creates a sluice that restricts the water flowing down into the River Reuss. “The Nadelwehr was the first of its kind in Europe. The historic dam is located next to the Sproerbrücke Bridge.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Reuss

 4.5/5

437 reviews

The fourth largest river in Switzerland with a length of over 164 kilometres. It flows through the cantons of Schwyz, Lucerne, Uri, Obwalden and Nidwalden. The waterway originates in the Alps (St Gotthard) and flows into Lake Fyrwaldstätte. Along the banks are picturesque buildings from past centuries and well-tended gardens. A walk along the river is a popular tourist attraction.

Kornmarkt

 0/5

The main square in the historic part of the city, formerly home to a bustling public market where grain was traded. It is surrounded by picturesque facades of the town’s mansions from the past centuries. The walls of the houses are painted with frescoes on various themes depicting biblical scenes and everyday life. The place still retains the unique spirit of the Middle Ages.

Rathaus Stadt Luzern

 4.6/5

87 reviews

The town hall is located on the Kornmarkt square. It is one of the first sights to be noticed by a tourist arriving in Lucerne. The building was originally erected for the needs of the grain market, but in the XVI century it was adapted as an administrative building for the city authorities. The appearance of the building has pronounced features of the Renaissance style. Today, the town hall houses a history museum.

Open time

Museggmauer

 4.6/5

2071 reviews

The only military fortification from the Middle Ages in the vicinity of Lucerne that has survived to this day. The wall was built in the 13th century and was used for its intended purpose until the 19th century. The preserved section of the Museumggmauer extends for almost 900 metres. There are watchtowers along its entire length. Some of them are open to the public. A hiking trail runs along the wall.

Open time

Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Hotel Château Gütsch

 4.4/5

1291 reviews

The hotel is located on the territory of a castle of the XIX-XX centuries, which stands on the top of a mountain. The surrounding area is decorated in the best traditions of “palace” landscape design. There is an observation deck in front of the building, which offers a magnificent view of Lucerne, Lake Fyrwaldstätte and the valley. Among the guests of the Chateau Gooch are royalty, famous actors and famous film directors.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre

 4.6/5

5354 reviews

A modern complex consisting of several spacious halls and a museum. It hosts many events – festivals, congresses, presentations, ceremonies and concerts. The building was erected in a modern high-tech style, designed by architect J. Nevel in 2000. In terms of acoustics, the Centre’s halls are among the best venues in all of Europe.

Open time

Swiss Museum of Transport

 4.6/5

10575 reviews

The museum was organised in 1959. In addition to the exposition of various types of transport – aeroplanes, cars, ships, trains, you can see the collection of local painter H. Ernie. The museum has a beautifully equipped planetarium and an IMAX cinema. There are also several interesting attractions for children, such as a ride on a mini escalator and a fire engine.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sammlung Rosengart

 4.6/5

712 reviews

Artistic exposition consisting of works by famous masters. There are 125 paintings by P. Klee, as well as paintings and drawings (sketches) by P. Cezanne, C. Monet, A. Matisse and other famous artists of the XIX-XX centuries. The museum collection also contains photographs by D. Duncan from the Second World War. Duncan’s photographs from the Second World War. There is a separate room dedicated to the works of P. Picasso, which can be regarded as a full-fledged gallery.

Open time

Richard Wagner Museum Lucerne

 4.4/5

323 reviews

The genius composer R. Wagner came to Switzerland in 1866 and settled in a mansion on the shores of Lake Fyrwaldstätte. F. Liszt, F. Nietzsche, the Bavarian monarch Ludwig II and other famous personalities of that era often visited his house. According to the composer’s own recollections, the happiest moments of his life took place here, which influenced his later work in the best possible way. Today, the mansion houses a museum in memory of the composer.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Natur-Museum Luzern

 4.4/5

351 reviews

The relatively small exposition is housed in the building of the former orphanage, built in 1811 in the neoclassical style. The leading themes of the collection are the flora and fauna of the region, geological history and ecological problems. The museum often organises temporary exhibitions, informative lectures and nature-themed activities for children. Part of the collection consists of stuffed animals and birds.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Historisches Museum Luzern

 4.4/5

331 reviews

The exhibition consists of costumes, armour, weapons, handicrafts and archival documents from different periods of Lucerne’s history. The collection is located in the former Arsenal building. If you wish, you can join an organised tour, which takes place several times during the day. Professional actors work in the museum to create a historical atmosphere.

Open time

Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne

 4.5/5

821 reviews

A panoramic canvas of impressive size by E. Castres, depicting the crossing of the French army of General Ch. Bourbaki through Switzerland. This event took place during the war between France and Germany in 1870-71. The painting is housed in a circular pavilion. Its total area is more than 1,000 m². The panel is one of the most striking examples of panoramic painting of the 19th century.

Open time

Glacier Garden of Lucerne

 4.4/5

1987 reviews

The Geological Park is Lucerne’s museum, which was founded at the end of the 19th century. Its history began when a citizen I.V. Amraine accidentally discovered ancient fossils in his yard while digging a wine cellar. On the basis of these findings, the Lucerne Scientific Council decided to create a museum. Most of the exposition is in the open air. The Glacier Garden consists of many pavilions and themed zones.

Open time

Jesuit Church St Francis Cavier

 4.6/5

1576 reviews

The church is located in the historic part of Lucerne near the city hall. It is the first religious building of the city erected in the Baroque style. The name of the architect remains unknown, although the temple was built not so long ago – in the second half of the XVII century. According to one version, K. Vogler worked on the building. Despite the fact that the church belongs to the Lutheran confession, its interior is decorated rather lavishly.

Open time

Monday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Saturday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Sunday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Hofkirche St. Leodegar

 4.6/5

2513 reviews

The church was built in the 17th century in a mixed architectural style combining late German Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic features. Earlier on the site of the Hofkirche there was an abbey of the VIII century, which was destroyed in a fire. Bas-reliefs dating back to the XIV-XV centuries have been preserved from the abbey church. The church is one of the main parishes of the Protestant community of Lucerne.

Open time

Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Luzern

 4.3/5

6745 reviews

The city’s central station serving suburban and long-distance destinations. The transparent concourse with an original roof crowning the building was designed by Spanish architect S. Calatrava. The structure belongs to the state-owned company that owns the Swiss railways. There is a bus station next to the station.

Open time

Pilatus Shop Luzern

 4/5

29 reviews

The railway is more than 4.5 km long, located at a steep inclination of 48° to the surface. It leads to the top of Mount Pilatus. The toothed structure of the trackbed (for better grip on the wheels) was designed by the ingenious engineer E. Locher at the end of the 19th century. The Pilatusbahn went through only one modernisation in 1937. Since then, its mechanisms have not been reconstructed.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

UNESCO Biosphäre Entlebuch

 4.7/5

2105 reviews

Natural area of the canton of Lucerne, recognised by UNESCO as the country’s first biosphere reserve. The ecosystem is represented by pre-alpine peat valleys and foothills consisting of karst formations. The reserve covers a vast area of 400 km². There are hiking trails for tourists passing through the most picturesque places.

Open time

Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Riga

A mountain on the border of the canton of Lucerne, located between Lake Fyrwaldstätte and Lake Zug. It rises 1,797 metres above sea level. The summit can be reached by railway, cable car or hiking trails. There are several picturesque towns around the mountain. The local idealistic scenery attracts many tourists here.

Mount Pilatus

 4.8/5

3140 reviews

A mountain, or rather a mountain range, which according to legend was named after the prosecutor Pontius Pilate. There is a belief that on one of the slopes is his tomb. The highest point of the ridge reaches 2121 metres above sea level. Pilatus is located on the border of several cantons – Nidwalden, Obwalden and Lucerne. The Pilatusbahn cog railway and a cable lift lead to its summit.