Situated on the shoreline of emerald-green Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the Swiss Alps, Lucerne is my pick for the most beautiful city in Switzerland!
You'll love wandering Lucerne's vibrant, perfectly preserved Old Town! It oozes unmistakably Swiss charm.
If you're planning to spend at least 48 hours, here are some of the best things to do!
Within Old Town Lucerne, you'll see the 17th-century Rathaus (town hall), admire the medieval mural-covered buildings, and visit historic squares like Weinmarkt, Hirschenplatz, and Kornmarkt.
Walking across the unique medieval Chapel Bridge and the Chaff Bridge are musts on any Lucerne itinerary. My advice? Go early to have them all to yourself!
You can't beat an al fresco lunch along the Reuss River with the majestic Chapel Bridge and Jesuit Church in view!
Riding the 90-second funicular up to Hotel Château Gütsch (a restored 19th-century castle!) is a must-do. The panoramic views of Lucerne from the hotel's terrace and cocktail bar will take your breath away!
The beauty of 6,000-foot Mt. Rigi (A.K.A. “The Queen of the Mountains”) will take your breath away. We took a self-guided day trip and it was the highlight of my last trip to Switzerland!
for my complete 2-Day Lucerne itinerary. It includes:
- What to do in Lucerne - The best seasons to visit - Where to stay in Lucerne - All the essential travel tips!