Old Town Lucerne
Old Town Lucerne
4.5
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Old Town Lucerne
The area
Address
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
616 within 5 kms
Attractions
131 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- classic1903Ventura County Coast, California173 contributionsHighly recommended for a stay of one to two nightsI would really recommend Old Town Lucerne for a stay of one to two nights. A lovely, easily walkable town with beautiful views of the old buildings, river, lake and mountains. Many shops and scenic areas make this a happy place to spend the day. Be sure to visit the covered bridges, churches, and lakefront areas especially on a clear day. If you're an art lover, don't miss the Sammlung Rosengart Museum for a wonderful exhibition on Pablo Picasso, among other great artists. Lots of works by Klee, Kandinsky, and others.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten September 25, 2023
- Kamal PByron Bay, Australia8,446 contributionsCharming old townWhat we admired most were the beautiful old buildings and the very attractive paintings done on them to draw the attention of the people walking on the inner streets. Town was peaceful and the walk-through discovering activity that was going on within was a memorable experience. The pubs, the cafes, the hotels by the lake front and souvenir shops were among them. Apart from seeing the Chapel bridge, Water tower and Lion monument, the walking tour of old town was fascinating, ending up in the area with the old city wall and the wooden footbridge to cross the river close to the weir style "Needle dam" built to regulate the flow of the river Reuss. There were floating restaurants and awesome art work exhibited outside the Impulse gallery and artists performing to entertain visitors on the promenade by the bank of the lake.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten May 14, 2024
- Diana RBirch Run, Michigan2,888 contributionsBeautiful cityWe visited Lucerne on a recent trip to Europe. We did a private walking tour first then explored on our own. Other than it was extremely busy due to a marathon, we enjoyed our time there. Lots of beautiful views, shopping, eating. Would recommend.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten May 16, 2024
- LJuchaCarlsbad, California292 contributionsLoved Lucerne!Beautiful city and great area to walk around. Lots to see. We took a walking tour and saw lots we would have never seen on our own. Chocolate is GREAT and we felt guilt wearing apple watches since every watch manufacturer is on every street! We stayed at Hotel Des Balances which is in Old town and with a restaurant right on the water by Chapel Bridge. Great views!Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten June 10, 2024
- jads4uKansas City, Missouri206 contributionsHistoric Lucerne at the foot of the Alps on Lake LucerneLucerne is a really cool town next to an incredibly beautiful lake below equally beautiful mountains. We walked all around town that has some beautiful old churches and great shops of all kinds. And amazing chocolate. Buy local stuff not Lindt . You can get that anywhere in the USA. Lake Lucerne is glacial and d snow melt fed and is up to 700 ft deep and very clear. We wish we had more time to spend.Visited July 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten July 21, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,002 reviews
Excellent
1,953
Very good
868
Average
154
Poor
14
Terrible
13
BrakiWorldTraveler
Belgrade, Serbia19,408 contributions
Mar 2022
During our 8 days Swiss tour we visited 7 cities and Lucerne was the cutest one - such a compact town, set by the Reuss river and Lucerne lake.
The medieval old town along with old city walls and watchtowers guarding the fairy tale town with it's iconic Chapel bridge was a pleasure to explore. Everything is packed in a walking distance.
The medieval old town along with old city walls and watchtowers guarding the fairy tale town with it's iconic Chapel bridge was a pleasure to explore. Everything is packed in a walking distance.
Written April 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mary K
387 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
Lucerne was the first place we stayed during a three week trip with 10 stops throughout Switzerland and the city was very charming and will always hold a special place in our hearts. We stayed in the Old Town and it was quiet, charming, moody, and easy to walk around. Would recommend and would visit again.
Written June 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gene P
San Fernando, Philippines627 contributions
Jul 2022
The historic bridge is spectacular in sight because of the history and significance. The paintings on the walkway are good to see but over all the visit will only last for 10 to 15 mins. It is however a good photo op place due to the water tower, surrounding area and river.
Written July 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
allene698
Clarkston, WA34 contributions
Apr 2022
The 2 wood bridges were built in the 13th century. One had a majr fire not too long ago and was restored to much its original style. One bridge has multiple paintings above the walk reminding all of us, no matter who we are or what station in life we are in, we all await the same end. One has a little distillery store that is a must visit. Wonderful plum brandy! The views reveal enough for us to walk the rest of the day
Written May 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anton
1 contribution
Jun 2021 • Couples
I love Luzern. I was born and grew up here and it is one of the most beautiful places to visit. From time to time I come back to visit my parents and stayed in several hotels in several locations in the city. One thing I learned for sure: don't spend the night in the city if you intend to sleep. In no other place I had to endure so much screaming and shouting of drunk and drugged people all night long and in almost every place. And not only once but every year that I came here. It is a pity and a shame but unfortunately a fact. So my advice is: come for a day trip to enjoy the beauty and find some quiet place somewhere else to spend the night!
Written June 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arthur M
Hamilton, Canada1,621 contributions
Dec 2022
During our time of our visit, it was raining pretty heavily. At the same time, the sun was setting so everything was getting dark. But somehow it's still pretty magical to see lights turning on for the night.
And besides, the river's water remained absolutely clear despite the rainstorm. I expected the water to be muddy with the runoff from the Old Town, but wow it remained so clear I could even see fish swimming underwater by the Chapel Bridge!
The Swiss clearly know how to build and run cities and the Swiss are clearly (no pun intended) disciplined.
And besides, the river's water remained absolutely clear despite the rainstorm. I expected the water to be muddy with the runoff from the Old Town, but wow it remained so clear I could even see fish swimming underwater by the Chapel Bridge!
The Swiss clearly know how to build and run cities and the Swiss are clearly (no pun intended) disciplined.
Written January 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
w79b
Amsterdam, The Netherlands97 contributions
Jan 2020
The old town features several buildings with apparently ancient murals. The bridges and lake make for great photo opportunities. Don't expect a vibrant night life. Sundays almost everything will be closed.
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gfsc5
Perth, Australia1,787 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
As part of a four-day tour of Switzerland, we stopped in on Lucerne on our way to Bern from Zurich.
OMG. Beautiful. Situated next to a lake and river, with some lovely old bridges, and views across to mountains, we thought the place was lovely.
And then we ventured into the old town and were blown away by the picture-book half-timbered and painted buildings that seemed to be everywhere. Absolutely stunning. Photo ops. wherever you looked.
Also lots of shops and restaurants for the tourists.
A really lovely place to visit and highly recommended. One of our Swiss highlights.
OMG. Beautiful. Situated next to a lake and river, with some lovely old bridges, and views across to mountains, we thought the place was lovely.
And then we ventured into the old town and were blown away by the picture-book half-timbered and painted buildings that seemed to be everywhere. Absolutely stunning. Photo ops. wherever you looked.
Also lots of shops and restaurants for the tourists.
A really lovely place to visit and highly recommended. One of our Swiss highlights.
Written July 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GarryausPa
Princess Anne, MD11 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
We are lucky and have an old friend in Luzern who gave us a special tour in this amazing Swiss town
First it is situated at the water the Vierwaldstätter See ,
second the River Reuss is rushing out the sluice
Third you have the KKL an amazing cultural center right on the lake.
Fourth you can experience at the Rosengarten museum plenty of Picassos and Klees
Fifth you can make a pleasant walk through town without the tourist crowd
And and and.
My only advice is do not miss this place when in Switzerland.
First it is situated at the water the Vierwaldstätter See ,
second the River Reuss is rushing out the sluice
Third you have the KKL an amazing cultural center right on the lake.
Fourth you can experience at the Rosengarten museum plenty of Picassos and Klees
Fifth you can make a pleasant walk through town without the tourist crowd
And and and.
My only advice is do not miss this place when in Switzerland.
Written July 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
classic1903
Ventura County Coast, CA173 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
I would really recommend Old Town Lucerne for a stay of one to two nights. A lovely, easily walkable town with beautiful views of the old buildings, river, lake and mountains. Many shops and scenic areas make this a happy place to spend the day. Be sure to visit the covered bridges, churches, and lakefront areas especially on a clear day. If you're an art lover, don't miss the Sammlung Rosengart Museum for a wonderful exhibition on Pablo Picasso, among other great artists. Lots of works by Klee, Kandinsky, and others.
Written September 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It would be lovely! Just be sure to dress warmly if you want to sit outside. Fondue by the river was great!
Written November 21, 2018
Para alojarme una noche en Lucerna, que hotel me recomendarias?
Written June 16, 2018
Es gibt viele sehr schöne und zentral gelegene Hotels in Luzern. Da ist sicherlich im Angebot etwas dabei und es ist schön am Abend hier zu sein.
Written June 16, 2018
originlsin2001
Lakewood, Ohio
How many hours is the Old Town Lucerne walking tour that leaves at 8:00?
Written December 29, 2017
We walked around town, slowly, poking in the shops and churches and spent about 3 hours. If you were to go up the hill and along the city wall and into the fortifications, it will take longer.
Written November 21, 2018
We are going to arrive the first week of December . We are staying near the train station.
1. Will the Christmas market be open?
2. Is it Walking distance from train station?
3. Can we get from Lucerne to Pilatus easily? What is the best way and is it better than titlas that time of year?
4. Would traveling from Lucerne to Strasbourg be easy by train?
5. Any sites or restaurants recommended?
Written October 13, 2017
Hi.. cheryil.. sorry for the late response.
I will assist you to see both the mountains in one day.
Board the train from Lucerne towards Engelberg from Platform 13.
You will reach Engelberg by 8.55am
You will get a shuttle bus to Titlis Cable car station.
There are lot of cable cars so dont worry about any delays. You will get it immediately.
after 15minutes you will reach the stand and from there you need to board the Rotair Gondola. Just 5 minutes later you will be in Titlis.
Spend 1-2 hours and return from Titlis. ( Keep in mind that every 1hr only a train is available from Engleberg to Titlis and vice versa)
So plan accordingly so that you don't miss the train that leaves from Engelberg to Lucerne at 12:01 hours.
You will reach lucerne by 13:00 hours.
Have your lunch if you are hungry. Say 1 hour
Then take a train/bus to Alpnachstad or Kriens ( going to alpnachstad means first travel in Cogway and then return via cable car to Kriens, and vice versa if you starts from Kriens)
Board the train S5, Lucerne from Platform 14 (available every 30minutes)
it will take 20 minutes to reach alpnachstad.
If there is rush also, you will be able to board the cogway by 3pm.
You will reach the top within 40minutes.
Spend your time on top and start descend by 5pm so that you can reach Kriens before 6pm and return to Lucerne. (10 minutes from Kriens)
Don't hesitate to ask for any clarifications.
Thanks
Vivek
Written November 1, 2017
If I only have time to visit Bern or Lucerne which would y o u pick and why?
Written June 10, 2017
I haven't visited bern... but Lucerne is good laid back place with lots of places surrounding it to visit and also can enjoy nightlife in Lucern
Written June 10, 2017
My son got an accident just 10 days before our trip starts and can't walk independently...can we get a stroller or wheel chair in the tourist places and stations like Lucerne, titlis, Jungfrau etc. and are these places,public transport are friendly to travel for a stroller bound kid ? he is 8 yrs and about 30kgs..we have already purchased Swiss pass for 4 days and travelling between 13 to 16 May.
Written May 1, 2017
Hi, maybe, some of the streets are HARD walking. cobblestones. So if you stick to the main drag....
Written May 16, 2017
Hello, I am planning to visit Lucerne this coming May. Will a puffer jacket, a light sweater and a pair of walking rubber shoes be suitable for a walking tour around the town?
Written January 7, 2017
I think you would be more than fine with a puffy jacket, light sweater, and good shoes. I've lived here for three years and visited previously to that and never had to wear a hat and gloves in May. Light layers would be more probable with a light waterproof jacket. In my opinion, worry more about the rain than the cold. It's often rainy and wet in May so be prepared to have or buy an umbrella and perhaps a waterproof bag or covers if you plan on taking photos with cameras or cellphones.
Written January 19, 2017
I arrive from Paris to Zurich in November. how can I travel from Lucerne and what are the best places to stay. I have 3 days so should I allocate 1 day to Zurich? is it worth.
Written September 24, 2016
We did much traveling in Switzerland and Italy by train. It was easy and on time. Plus you get to sit back and sightsee.
We did not go to Zurich but in Lucerne we really liked the Hotel des Alps. It is walking distance from train station and right in the middle of the things you will want to see. Have fun!
Written September 25, 2016
We will start in Basel and end in Vienna. Probably have four or five days. How much time should we allocate for each if we go to Lucerns, Zurich, Insbrook and Vienna? And in what order?
Written August 9, 2016
I'm going to complicate your planning by giving you two pieces of advice. Visit according to the map ... Don't backtrack, that will save time. BUT ... While in Switzerland, do not miss going to the mountain areas near either Grindelwald, Wengen or Lauterbrunnen. It will take your breath away!!! Start in Basel, stay a day in Zurich, at the end of the day, take train 30 min to Lucerne for overnight. See Lucerne the next morning and go straight to Interlaken (2.5 hours) and take the small local mountain railway from there to Wengen. It is so gorgeous, you will stop and cancel your itinerary!!! Really you will! And if you don't, you can leave anytime and take the train from Interlaken on to Innsbruck and then to Vienna. Big cities don't thrill me that much but if you take the train around Switzerland and on to Innsbruck, you will see some amazing scenery!! Have a great time!
Written August 10, 2016
Showing results 1-10 of 14
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing