12 amazing activities to enjoy in Lucerne

Many travelers in Central Switzerland choose Lucerne as their base to discover the stunning landscapes nearby, but don’t overlook the charm of the city itself.

With its breathtaking location on the shores of the Vierwaldstättersee (Lake Lucerne), Lucerne boasts exceptional museums, rich history, a vibrant music scene, and one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Switzerland.

Maximize your experience in Lucerne by indulging in these top activities.

1. Stroll across Lucerne’s iconic Kapellbrücke

Any tourism depiction of Lucerne prominently features this charming covered wooden footbridge spanning the Reuss River, which flows from the lake. Built in the early 14th century, the Kapellbrücke stands as the city’s emblem, although it was nearly destroyed by a fire in 1993, leaving the locals devastated. Fortunately, the nearby water tower remained intact, and a careful reconstruction restored the bridge and its beautifully painted roof panels to their former splendor in just eight months. For a perfect introduction to the city, be sure to visit this landmark right after arriving at the train station.

Detour: Further down the river lies a smaller version of the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuerbrücke, which is the oldest original bridge in Lucerne, dating back to 1408. Its wooden roof beams are adorned with painted panels illustrating the Dance of Death, a nod to the city’s history with the plague.

2. Marvel at the vibrant painted buildings in the Altstadt

Lucerne’s stunning Altstadt (Old Town) is renowned for its beautifully adorned buildings, featuring vibrant frescoes that illustrate the city’s rich history and culture, including the annual Fasnacht (carnival), the tale of William Tell, and significant battles. Take a leisurely walk to admire the historic guild house Pfistern, the Hotel des Balances, and the ornate buildings lining Hirschenplatz, Weinmarkt, and Mühlenplatz. Spend some time relaxing in one of the many cafes scattered throughout the area.

Planning tip: The Altstadt is dotted with numerous water fountains, so skip the bottled water – bring a refillable bottle and fill up along the way.

3. Wander along Lucerne’s medieval ramparts

Once a fortified city, Lucerne retains some of its medieval walls, known as the Museggmauer, which features a series of walls and nine towers. You can explore it in either direction. Starting from the Nölliturm in the western part of the old town, follow the Museggmauerweg past the Männliturm and towards the Wachturm, where you can walk directly along the ramparts to the Schirmerturm. Several towers, including the Zytturm (clock tower), are accessible for climbing, offering panoramic views of the city and the majestic Pilatus mountain that looms above.

4. Dive into Picasso’s life and works at the Sammlung Rosengart

The Sammlung Rosengart, affectionately known as Lucerne’s Picasso museum by locals, houses the private art collection of Swiss art dealers Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela. Having been friends with Picasso, they dedicated an entire floor to his works, showcasing around 40 pieces that reflect his imaginative and playful spirit.

The basement features a variety of paintings and sketches by Swiss artist Paul Klee, while the upper floors highlight iconic modernist works by Cézanne, Monet, Matisse, Braque, Miró, Chagall, and others. Be sure to check out the photographs of Picasso and his second wife Jacqueline, captured at their home near Cannes in the 1960s by American war photographer David Douglas Duncan, offering a glimpse into their life together.

Planning tip: If you plan to visit multiple museums in Lucerne, consider purchasing a Museum Card, which provides access to nine museums over two consecutive days for Sfr39, offering great value.

5. Take the funicular up to Château Gütsch for a drink with a stunning view

Gaze downriver and you’ll spot a fairy-tale castle perched on a hill above the city. This enchanting hotel, Château Gütsch, was established in 1901, although an inn existed here half a century earlier. It’s easily accessible via a funicular that ascends from the town and drops you right at the hotel. Enjoy the breathtaking view from the top or relax with a drink on the hotel’s terrace, overlooking the city and the shimmering lake below.

Planning tip: Essentially an elevator, the funicular is just a five-minute stroll from the southern end of the Spreuerbrücke and operates on demand from early morning until late at night. Just press the button to summon it.

6. Find a moment of solitude at the Lion Monument

A short walk from the Altstadt leads you to the Löwendenkmal, a large stone relief sculpture of a dying lion, carved from rock in a former quarry in the northern part of the city. This moving memorial honors the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI of France from revolutionaries in 1792, initiated by one of their comrades who wasn’t on duty that day. Designed by Danish artist Bertel Thorvaldsen, it conveys deep sadness, but the tranquil atmosphere is often disrupted by selfie-seeking tour groups, so visit early or late for a peaceful experience with the lion.

7. Experience live classical music at the KKL

Situated right by the lakeshore next to the train station, the Kultur und Kongresszentrum Luzern (KKL) is unmistakable with its striking large black flat roof. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, this expansive postmodern arts center and concert hall boasts world-class acoustics and facilities, attracting renowned classical musicians. The annual Lucerne Festival is a highlight on the orchestral calendar, along with several other festivals like Luzern Live and Piano Fest, which are worth checking out throughout the year.

Planning tip: The KKL’s café, Le Piaf, is a fantastic spot for lunch or coffee, or grab a takeaway drink and head to the fountain and surrounding boardwalks outside, a popular gathering place on sunny days.

8. Sip a drink by the lakeshore at Inseli Park

On a warm early evening, the place to be is Inseli Park, a grassy stretch along the lakeshore near the KKL cultural center. Two quaint café-bars, Buvette and Volière, are located at either end of the park, serving cocktails, beers, wines, and soft drinks along with light snacks. Settle into a chair or dangle your legs over the lake wall while soaking in the lively atmosphere and stunning views. If you’re looking to save some money, pick up a picnic and drinks from Coop supermarket or Bachmann bakery (both in the nearby train station) and enjoy them on the grass.

9. Explore the history of transport at the Verkehrshaus

Switzerland takes great pride in its remarkable transport system, much of which is showcased in Lucerne, particularly at the Verkehrshaus der Schweiz (Swiss Museum of Transport). This interactive museum pays tribute to all forms of transport, featuring cockpits to sit in, simulators to try, and various digital and physical games. Visitors can explore an array of trains, planes, and automobiles, making it perfect for kids, big kids, and transport enthusiasts alike.

Detour: The museum is just a short walk from the lakeside near the Verkehrshaus ferry stop. Be sure to take a dip, or stroll five minutes along the lake to the Sunset Bar, which is a fantastic spot for a drink while watching the sunset.

10. Swim and grill at Ufschötti

On a sunny summer afternoon, join the locals heading to Ufschötti on Alpenquai, just a ten-minute stroll from the KKL. This park features a sandy beach along the lakeshore, making it a perfect spot to spend an afternoon sunbathing, swimming, and grilling. There’s also a café-bar for refreshments and a pétanque pitch if you’re in the mood for a game or two.

11. Discover where Wagner lived and composed the Siegfried Idyll

It’s no wonder that Lucerne’s stunning lakeside scenery has inspired many artists and musicians. German composer Richard Wagner was so captivated by the city that he rented a lakeshore villa at Tribschen for several years starting in 1866. Today, this museum showcases his time here, his renowned works, and his romantic affairs. His chamber piece Siegfried Idyll was written for his second wife upon the birth of their son Siegfried and was first performed on the villa’s staircase.

Planning tip: Instead of walking, take the ferry from Bahnhofquai to Tribschen; it’s a quick five-minute ride. The museum is just a two-minute walk from the ferry dock.

12. Explore Lucerne’s Cold War bunker

For something a bit unusual, make your way to Sonnenberg hill, where Lucerne constructed a nuclear fallout shelter in 1976, intended to protect a third of the city's population. During the height of the Cold War, Switzerland’s neutrality fueled concerns about its central location in Europe, leading to the decision that every citizen should have a refuge if necessary. The local authorities determined that two motorway tunnels under Sonnenberg hill could serve as a temporary shelter, resulting in the creation of a command center capable of supporting operations for up to 20,000 people. Book in advance for an intriguing tour of the Sonnenberg Civil Protection Facility and discover how people would have slept, eaten, and used facilities in a post-apocalyptic scenario in Lucerne.

Planning tip: Make sure to book in advance for a public tour in English, which takes place on the last Sunday of the month from April to August, or arrange a private tour for a more personalized experience.