This Swiss City Is Surrounded by Alpine Peaks — and Its Medieval Chapel Bridge Is One of the Oldest in Europe

The best things to do in Lucerne include sailing on Lake Lucerne, strolling across the Chapel Bridge, and taking in panoramic views from Château Gütsch. Nestled in the heart of Central Switzerland, this picturesque city is famed for its stunning lakeside scenery, medieval architecture, and rich cultural history.

With over 9 million visitors each year, Lucerne continues to attract both history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your itinerary.

We’ve carefully curated this list of 12 must-do activities after analyzing traveler reviews, local tips, and expert guides. Whether you’re looking for historic sites, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, these are the best ways to discover the charm of Lucerne.

Table of Contents

Swipe and Vote: See What Travelers Recommend

Which Lucerne activity would make your Instagram followers the most jealous?

This is a swiper quiz, swipe right for yes, swipe left for no.

12 Travel Destinations in September in Europe Lucerne, Switzerland

Strolling Chapel Bridge 1/5

12 Unique Castle Hotels in Europe To Stay Once in Your Lifetime

Château Gütsch views 2/5

Top Things to Do in Lucerne, Switzerland Go Sailing on Lake Lucerne

Sailing Lake Lucerne 3/5

Top Things to Do in Lucerne, Switzerland Ride the Mount Pilatus Cable Car

Mount Pilatus cable car 4/5

Top Things to Do in Lucerne, Switzerland Discover the Glacier Garden

Glacier Garden stroll 5/5

Results

Strolling Chapel Bridge

8 4

Château Gütsch views

5 7

Sailing Lake Lucerne

9 3

Mount Pilatus cable car

7 5

Glacier Garden stroll

6 6

🎧 Listen Instead: Your Article in Podcast

Enjoy this article in podcast form—perfect for staying informed or listening on the go.

Top Hotels

Here are some of the best hotels in Lucerne:

Must-Do Activities

Here are three of the most popular things to see and do in Lucerne:

Go sailing on Lake Lucerne – Sailing on Lake Lucerne offers fun for the whole family.
Walk along Chapel Bridge – Chapel Bridge is one of Europe’s most historic wooden bridges.
Admire the views from Château Gütsch – Château Gütsch arguably offers the best views in Lucerne.

Go Sailing on Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne is often the main reason travelers visit Lucerne. It’s the fourth-largest lake in Switzerland and is renowned for its impressive natural beauty. One of the best ways to experience the lake is on the water.

Unsurprisingly, many boat tours operate from Lucerne, making it super easy for you to enjoy the lake. This Round-Trip Catamaran Cruise is one of the most popular. You’ll cruise across the lake in a luxury catamaran, enjoying spectacular views of Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, Rigi, and Bürgenstock.

You can grab food and drinks from the vending machine if you get peckish. It’s also worth noting that children up to five can join the cruise for free. What’s not to like?

Travel Tips

Arrive Early for Best Seats: Get there before ticket offices open at 8:00 AM to secure the best views as the boat fills up quickly.
Consider a Sunset Cruise: If you want a more peaceful experience, try a sunset cruise for CHF 47.50 ($52). The lake looks even more beautiful with the sunset reflections.

Walk Along Chapel Bridge

Chapel Bridge is one of Lucerne’s most iconic photograph spots. Also known as the Kapellbrücke, it’s also one of the world’s most historic covered wooden footbridges. It was constructed in the 14th century to connect the Old Town to the New Town.

Today, the bridge runs from St. Peter’s Chapel on the Rathausquai to Lucerne Theater on the south bank of the Reuss River. In the middle of the bridge is a beautiful late-13th-century water tower built approximately 50 to 60 years before the bridge.

Walking along the bridge is not only convenient for seeing both sides of Lucerne, but it’s also a step through time. Not to mention, the views of the city and Lake Lucerne are magnificent.

Travel Tips

Join a Guided Walking Tour: For a deeper understanding of the bridge’s history, consider joining a local walking tour that covers the bridge and nearby sights for $32.92.
Look for Swans by the Bridge: The swans near the bridge are a lovely sight and perfect for photos if you’re lucky enough to spot them!
Stay in the Old Town: Pick a hotel like Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern, located just a short walk from Chapel Bridge and the heart of Lucerne’s Old Town.

Admire the Views from Château Gütsch

Château Gütsch, one of Switzerland’s most historic landmarks, offers some of the best views in Lucerne. This castle hotel stands proudly above the city and Lake Lucerne, offering mesmerizing views and a fascinating history that dates back over 400 years.

Château Gütsch first appeared in 1590, when Gütsch tower was constructed. However, the structure we see today has been built over centuries. The most recent renovations took place in 2021.

When you’re not learning more about the property, admire the breathtaking landscape views. You might also be pleased to hear that you can stay in Château Gütsch. It’s an excellent place to spend a romantic weekend with your partner.

Travel Tips

Take the Funicular for Easy Access: Skip the steep walk and ride the funicular from the city to Château Gütsch for CHF 3 ($3.29) one-way. It’s only a 5-minute ride and gives you great views on the way up.
Book a Table for Lunch or Drinks: If you want to enjoy the views while relaxing, book a table at the hotel’s restaurant. It’s a nice spot for a meal or a drink.

Visit the Lion Monument

If you love history, visiting the Lion Monument is one of the best things to do in Lucerne. Also known as the Lion of Lucerne, this famous landmark is a sculpture of a lion carved into the rock next to a pond off Denkmalstrasse.

Besides being an incredibly beautiful sculpture, the Lion Monument has significant meaning. Designed by Lukas Ahorn in 1820-1821, it’s a tribute to the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution in 1792.

The Lion Monument can get quite busy, so we recommend visiting earlier in the day to beat the crowds.

Travel Tips

Bring Coins for the Pond: There’s a pond next to the monument where you can throw in coins for good luck. Keep a few coins on hand for the tradition!
Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): This historic wooden bridge is free to visit and open all day. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunset.

Ride the Mount Pilatus Cable Car

Thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking their next adventure should ride the Mount Pilatus cable car. Mount Pilatus is a mountain massif approximately 20 minutes drive from Lucerne. It comprises several peaks, the highest of which is Tomlishorn, at 6,981 feet (2,128 meters) above sea level.

The Mount Pilatus cable car offers fast and picturesque transport to the summit, and it’s only an 11-minute drive from Lucerne. Providing fun for all the family, it takes less than four minutes to reach the summit. During the ride, you’ll be treated to lake, mountain, and city views everywhere you look.

The views of Lake Lucerne are awe-inspiring.

Travel Tips

Buy Tickets Online for a Discount: Skip the line and save some money by booking your Mount Pilatus cable car tickets online in advance. You can get a round-trip for CHF 64 ($70).
Bring a Jacket for the Summit: Even on warm days, it can be chilly at the top of Mount Pilatus. Pack a light jacket to stay comfortable when you reach the summit.
Check the Weather Forecast: The weather on the mountain can change quickly. Make sure to check the forecast before your trip to ensure clear views during the cable car ride.

Race Down the Fräkigaudi Summer Toboggan Run

The Fräkigaudi Summer Toboggan Run is one of the most exhilarating tourist attractions near Lucerne. Perfect for families and adrenaline junkies, you can easily reach this Alpine toboggan run by taking the Mount Pilatus cable car to Fräkmüntegg. At over 4,429 feet (1,350 meters) long, it’s the longest summer toboggan run in Switzerland.

Save this

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later.

Anyone from the age of two can ride the toboggan, although an adult must accompany children under eight. You can choose your own pace when racing down the track. Some people like to race down the run as fast as possible, while others prefer a more leisurely ride.

Either way, you’re in for a lot of fun and epic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains.

Travel Tips

Safety First: If you’re visiting with kids, remember that children under 8 need to ride with an adult. Make sure you’re comfortable riding together.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: You’ll be sitting on a toboggan for a bit, so wear clothes that are comfortable and flexible. Avoid skirts or anything that might restrict your movement.

Explore the Swiss Museum of Transport

The Swiss Museum of Transport is one of Lucerne’s most unique tourist attractions. It’s the perfect destination for families with children. Opened in 1959, this fascinating museum features numerous exhibitions and interactive attractions. You can expect to find everything from ships and aircraft to trains and cars inside the museum.

One of the museum’s main highlights is the Arena, where children can drive go-karts, learn the rules of the road, and control bulldozers and excavators. The Arena is also home to a quirky building entirely covered in road signs. Meanwhile, must-visit exhibitions at the museum include Mobility of the Future, Air Traffic Control, and the Crash Test.

If you want to learn more during your visit, join one of the guided tours.

Travel Tips

Combine with a Visit to the Planetarium: If you’re interested in space, the Swiss Museum of Transport also has a planetarium nearby. It’s a great addition to your visit if you have extra time.
Arena Activities: The Arena is a must-visit for kids, offering go-karting and interactive exhibits. Activities are included in the CHF 62 ($68) entry fee, but some may require additional tokens, which can be purchased on-site.

Step Back in Time on the Musegg Wall

The Musegg Wall is one of Lucerne’s most historic tourist attractions, making it a big hit with history buffs. Constructed in the 13th century, this iconic medieval landmark and its nine towers were once part of Lucerne’s fortifications. The tall stone walls formed a defensive crown around the Old City.

Today, the walls serve as a reminder of Lucerne’s rich history and an excellent place to explore. Visitors can explore most of the 2,854-foot (870-meter) walls from April to the end of October. You’ll pass beautiful medieval towers with dramatic spires and viewpoints offering epic city and lake views.

Interestingly, Musegg Wall is also home to various animal species, such as bats, jackdaws, and wall lizards, so keep your eyes peeled.

Travel Tips

Musegg Wall Access: Visiting the wall is free, and it’s open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM from April 1 to November 1. Wear comfortable shoes for walking the uneven surfaces and climbing the towers.
Viewpoints: Don’t miss the spectacular views from the towers, particularly the Zyt Tower, which houses a historic clock.

Discover the Glacier Garden

The Glacier Garden is one of Lucerne’s most fascinating attractions. Opened in 1873, the Glacier Garden is home to Ice Age glacier exhibits that date back over 20,000 years ago. Lucerne was under 2,624 feet (800 meters) of thick ice during the last Ice Age.

When the Reuss glacier melted, 16 glacial potholes were left behind. The discovery of these potholes led to the founding of the Glacier Garden. The potholes offer a unique insight into Lucerne’s natural history.

Fossilized shells and palm leaves found within the holes reveal that Lucerne was located on a subtropical seashore 20 million years ago. The Glacier Garden also has a museum containing fossils, animal skeletons, and crystals.

Travel Tips

Glacier Garden Entry: The entry fee costs CHF 22 ($24). Consider purchasing tickets online to avoid queues and ensure a smooth entry.
Check Out the Glacial Potholes: Don’t miss the unique glacial potholes. These natural formations are fascinating and offer a glimpse into Lucerne’s past during the Ice Age.

Take Photographs of Hofkirche St. Leodegar

Hofkirche St. Leodegar, also known as the Church of St. Leodegar, is one of Lucerne’s most beautiful buildings. This stunning 17th-century Roman Catholic church is located on St. Leodegar Strasse. It sits on the foundations of a former Roman basilica, which was originally built in the 8th century B.C.

Visible from most Lake Lucerne boat trips, Hofkirche St. Leodegar features two striking towers with tall spires and an intricately designed facade with a clock tower. Inside, the church is ornate, with golden sculptures, magnificent arches, and a grand altar.

Let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to take a photograph of all that?

Travel Tips

Hofkirche St. Leodegar Entry: Visiting the church is free, and it’s open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Take your time to admire the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere inside.
Use the Clock Tower for Framing: The clock tower is a key feature of the church’s design. Frame your shot with the clock tower in the background for a stunning photo.

Admire Pablo Picasso’s Art in Sammlung Rosengart

If you love art, visit Sammlung Rosengart during your Lucerne vacation. The Sammlung Rosengart, often dubbed “Lucerne’s Picasso Museum,” is an art gallery that houses the private collection of Swiss art dealer Siegfried Rosengart. The Rosengart family was close to Pablo Picasso, which explains why the gallery contains over 30 of his works.

Interestingly, Angela Rosengart, Siegfried’s daughter, was painted by Picasso on several occasions. Inside Sammlung Rosengart, you’ll find paintings, drawings, photographs, and sculptures by Picasso, including The Studio, Crouching Nude, and Bust of a Woman.

Sammlung Rosengart also contains works by artists such as Claude Monet, Paul Klee, and Paul Cézanne. A guided tour can help you learn more about the stories behind the artwork on display.

Travel Tips

Take Photos: You can take photos inside the museum, but be sure to follow the guidelines. It’s a great way to capture the art and remember your visit.
Join a Guided Tour: To learn more about the stories behind Picasso’s works and the Rosengart family’s connection to him, I recommend taking a guided tour for CHF 5 ($5.50).

Relax at Inseli Park

Inseli Park is one of the best places to relax in Lucerne. Located alongside Lake Lucerne, it offers a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling streets and a relaxing place to admire the area’s impressive natural beauty. The park’s green space is the perfect place to watch the world go by.

Grab a drink from the cafes/bars at either end of the park, sit on the grass, and look out over the lake and mountains. Buvette Inseli sells fizzy drinks and cocktails. Alternatively, you could have a picnic on the grass.

In winter, it’s common for Christmas market stalls to appear in Inseli Park, so you could even buy a cup of mulled wine and a hot dog.

Travel Tips

Inseli Park Access: The park is free to enter and open all day. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon on the grass. Bring a blanket if you plan to sit and enjoy the views.
Buvette Inseli: This café offers a variety of drinks, including fizzy drinks and cocktails.