Nestled into the mountains in the north east corner of Switzerland, Lucerne one of the quieter Swiss cities. In contrast to Bern, Zurich or Geneva, it is possible to escape the hordes of tourists - at least for a while.
The sixth largest city in Switzerland, Lucerne is small enough to be able to walk across with ease, yet large enough to provide several days of activity and interest.
Geographically, Lucerne sits on the shore of Lake Lucerne, Switzerland's fourth largest lake, with a complicated shape - many twists and fo
ur arms. Driving around the lake, the many turns and bends provide for some epic views of the city and the mountains surrounding it. The road hugging the northern shore is particularly scenic.
Lucerne sits between two mountains, namely Pilatus and Rigi. A cable car transports people to the top of Pilatus, where the vista across the lake is immense. Well worth a visit if it's a clear day.
The Old Town
The Old Town of Lucerne, on the north bank of the river Reuss, boasts a number of Lucerne's major attractions. The pastel-coloured buildings make the area quite beautiful. A great first step is to walk along the river/lakeside, soaking up the atmosphere from the various bars and restaurants.
Chapel Bridge is a must see - it's a 13th century wooden bridge and the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge. There are also paintings on the ceiling of the bridge detailing moments from Lucerne’s past, which makes the Chapel Bridge one of Lucerne’s most beloved landmarks.
The Musegg wall was Lucerne’s main defence in the 15th century and many of the nine towers are accessible so you can see the breath-taking panoramic views over Lucerne and Lake Lucerne.
There are two main squares worth seeing too - Kornmarkt and Weinmarkt.
The Lion Monument
The Lion Monument is one of the most famous monuments in Switzerland. Situated just outside the old city, up on a hill, the massive sandstone monument of a lion impaled with a spear is about 10 metres long and 6 metres wide and stands behind a pool of water.
The monument was erected in the 19th century to honour the sacrifice of the Swiss Guards defending the King of France.
Glacier Garden of Lucerne
The Glacier Garden of Lucerne is the city’s main history museum. It’s a natural, open-air museum which covers the history of Switzerland’s glaciers and geology right up until the 19th century.
Swiss Museum of Transport
Offering fantastic views over Lake Lucerne and the old town, this is a huge exhibit containing Switzerland’s first diesel-powered train, several aeroplanes and cars from all eras and countries.
Boat Rides on the Lake
Well worth it if you have the time!
Eating in Lucerne
Fondue is a popular choice in Lucerne, and the local cheeses used are excellent. But it's not just about cheese here - there are some fabulous Japanese restaurants, and vegetarians and vegans are well catered for, too.
For chocolate, visit Max Chocolatiers - thoroughly rich and the perfect gift to take home.