Top 11 Best Things To Do in Lucerne: From Mountains to Lakes

Check out the 11 best things to do in Lucerne to make the perfect Swiss itinerary! Cruise on Lake Lucerne, soar through the skies on a paragliding flight, or snap pictures at the famous wooden bridge. Whatever you’re looking to do, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Lucerne!

Known as the heart of the country, Lucerne is the perfect spot to kick off an adventure in Switzerland. Imagine a city nestled between snow-capped mountains and sitting beside a lake. That’s Lucerne in one sentence. 

The best part? Planning a trip here is a breeze, with amazing tours and activities in Lucerne that suit every type of traveler. For example, Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi are both nearby, and the views from the top will leave anyone speechless. The city’s cobblestone streets and old buildings offer plenty of things to do in Lucerne. 

There’s also a great selection of travel packages in Lucerne to make everything even easier. These packages combine a carefully crafted itinerary, comfortable accommodations, and optional tours, so everything’s covered. For your adventure, the best places to stay in Lucerne offer modern comfort and unmatched convenience.

The city’s small enough to explore on foot, but that doesn't mean you’ll run out of things to do in Lucerne. This article is about Lucerne activities that you can consider for your itinerary. So jump in and have fun reading! 

11. Soar Above the City on a Tandem Paragliding Flight 

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If you're looking for an adventure to kick off your trip, tandem paragliding in Lucerne is a must-do! If you haven’t tried paragliding before, why not cross it off your list with Lucerne’s raw, breathtaking beauty surrounding you? 

It’s one of the best things to do in Lucerne, offering you a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the city and its stunning surroundings. As you soar through the sky, you'll get panoramic views of Lucerne attractions, including shimmering Lake Lucerne and the peaks of Engelberg. 

Although this suggestion is for starting your adventure, doing it at the end of your trip lets you spot all the places you've visited from above—how cool is that? It’s the perfect way to start or finish your Lucerne adventure!

10. Delight in Swiss Cuisine at a Local Restaurant

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Lucerne isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a haven for foodies looking for an unforgettable dining experience. If you're wondering what to do in Lucerne, try a bubbling cauldron of cheese fondue—creamy, gooey cheese melted to perfection. Don’t miss rosti either, a crispy, golden potato dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious (think of it like Swiss hash browns). 

And, of course, there are the iconic schnitzels and sausages, golden and crispy, just waiting to be devoured. Exploring Swiss cuisine is one of the best things to do in Lucerne if you enjoy great food!

For an authentic taste of Lucerne, head to local spots like Wirtshaus Taube or Restaurant Fritschi, where you can enjoy traditional Swiss dishes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Pair your meal with a glass of Swiss wine, and you’ve got yourself a perfect culinary journey. 

If you're looking to complement your culinary experience with checking out places to visit in Lucerne, consider joining this comprehensive Lucerne food experience. The tour combines tastings with sightseeing. Sample cheese, chocolate, and more while discovering Lucerne attractions like the Chapel Bridge and Chateau Gutsch.

9. Escape to the Swiss Alps: Jungfraujoch Day Trip

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When in Lucerne, escaping to the Swiss Alps and heading to Jungfraujoch is a must! Known as the “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch is home to Europe's highest railway station, where the views are absolutely jaw-dropping. 

The journey through the Bernese Oberland is a treat in itself, with breathtaking landscapes unfolding around every bend. It's definitely one of the most epic things to see in Lucerne if you’re up for a little adventure!

Once you’re up there, you can explore the Ice Palace and the observation terrace, where you’ll get a front-row view of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding mountain peaks. Don’t forget to pack a warm jacket—it can get pretty chilly up there—and bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright snow. 

For a smooth experience, consider joining the Jungfraujoch day trip from Lucerne with the Eiger Express gondola. The gondola ride is a thrilling way to get to the top. It offers panoramic views of the mountains along the way, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Lucerne. It’s the kind of adventure you’ll remember forever!

8. Embark on a Day Trip to Mount Titlis

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A day trip to Mount Titlis should be at the top of your list if you're looking for an unforgettable alpine adventure! It’s just a short trip from Lucerne, and once you reach the top, you'll be treated to stunning views. This activity is a must for anyone exploring Lucerne attractions.

To make the experience even more exciting, consider taking the Mount Titlis cable car from Engelberg with the Ice Flyer. This ride will take you up to Kleine Titlis, a viewpoint on the glacier at 9,934 feet (3,028 meters).

At the top, you can stroll on the snow, cross the suspension bridge, and explore the ice cave. Don’t forget to try snow tubing or enjoy the Ice Flyer glacier chairlift, where flying over massive snowfields and peering down into turquoise crevasses is a total thrill. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Lucerne!

Remember to dress warmly, as it’s snowy up there, even in summer. As a skiing destination with breathtaking views, Mount Titlis is one of the top places to visit when in Lucerne. 

7. Visit the Rosengart Collection

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If you’re a fan of art, the Rosengart Collection is definitely one of the best Lucerne attractions you can’t miss! This museum showcases the private collection of art dealer Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela, and it’s mostly filled with works by Pablo Picasso—whom they had a personal relationship with—and Paul Klee. 

You’ll also find pieces by Marc Chagall, Claude Monet, Wassily Kandinsky, and Joan Miro. This diverse collection makes the museum a fascinating stop for anyone who loves art history. The museum is small and intimate, which makes it a great place to really connect with the artwork. 

For a quieter experience, try to visit in the morning, and if you’re looking for more insight into the artists and their creations, consider joining a guided tour. Either way, the Rosengart Collection is definitely one of the top things to see in Lucerne, especially for art lovers!

6. Experience the Old Town's Charm

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For a magical experience, exploring the Old Town is among the best things to do in Lucerne! It’s like walking through a living history book with its cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and colorful facades. As you stroll, you’ll find hidden courtyards and historic squares, each with its own unique character and past.

Start your adventure at Weinmarkt, a picturesque square lined with frescoed guild houses. From there, check out Hirschenplatz and Kornmarkt, where you’ll spot the Town Hall—a stunning example of Lucerne’s architectural style. It’s the perfect spot to take in the old-world vibes of the city.

If you're looking for a deeper dive into the city’s history, the official guided tour of Lucerne could be just the thing. You’ll gain insider knowledge and see all the best spots without missing anything. The Old Town is definitely one of the top things to see in Lucerne, and a tour makes it even more fun!

5. Sail Across Lake Lucerne

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A cruise on Lake Lucerne is hands down one of the best ways to take in the stunning scenery around here! Picture lush greenery, blooming flowers, crystal-clear waters, swans gracefully gliding by, and sailboards dotting the lake. Snow-capped mountains are in the background, and Mount Pilatus stands tall at 6,889 feet (2,100 meters). The whole scene is absolutely breathtaking.

The lake’s calm waters are the perfect escape from the busy city life, with towering mountains framing the view. These are the reasons why Lake Lucerne is high on the list of Lucerne attractions. For the most incredible experience, try a morning or sunset cruise—you’ll get to enjoy views of charming lakeside villages and lush landscapes, making it feel like you're in a postcard.

If you're looking to combine sightseeing with a one-of-a-kind experience, check out the Mount Rigi self-guided tour with Lake Lucerne cruise and mountain spa visit. It’s a fun twist on the classic cruise, pairing a relaxing boat ride with a spa day on the mountain. It’s a perfect mix of exploring and unwinding—definitely one of the top things to do in Lucerne!

4. Marvel at the Swiss Transport Museum

The Swiss Museum of Transport is one of the best places to visit in Lucerne, especially if you're looking for something fun and educational. Whether you're into trains, planes, or even space exploration, this museum has it all. Plus, it’s located by the beautiful lake, so you can enjoy the views while you explore.

There’s so much to see, though, that it’s easy to miss out if you don’t have a bit of a plan. If you’re visiting with kids over 6, be sure to check out the free, timed events throughout the day. There are fun things like crash test demos and even a real submarine exhibit—definitely exciting for both kids and adults!

With everything from vintage trains to space exhibits, the museum takes you on a fascinating journey through Switzerland’s transport history. To make the most of your time, go on a weekday to skip the crowds, and plan to spend at least 3 hours there. Don’t forget to check out the IMAX cinema and planetarium—they’re definitely some of the best things to do in Lucerne!

3. Ascend Mount Pilatus

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Want to tick off one of the best things to do in Lucerne? Head up to Mount Pilatus! The journey starts with a scenic gondola ride that’ll have you snapping photos from the get-go. Then, get ready for the world's steepest cogwheel train to take you even higher—the views of the Swiss Alps are totally worth it.

If you’re there in the summer, you can hike some beautiful trails and even zip down a toboggan run. In the winter, it turns into a snowy wonderland that’s perfect for skiing or just taking in the crisp mountain air. Make sure to pack layers and bring a camera—you won’t want to miss capturing those amazing views!

If you want a smooth experience, check out the Mount Pilatus summit tour with a lake cruise from Lucerne. This tour combines a relaxing lake cruise with a trip to the summit, making it a super smooth and fun way to experience two of the best Lucerne attractions. It’s an unforgettable way to see the city’s natural beauty from every angle!

2. Discover the Lion Monument

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One of the most touching Lucerne attractions is the Lion Monument (Lowendenkmal), a powerful tribute to the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. Carved into a sandstone rock face, the monument shows a dying lion, symbolizing bravery and sacrifice. It’s a moving sight that’s definitely worth taking the time to visit.

To fully appreciate its significance, try heading over early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s a bit quieter. The surrounding park is a peaceful place, perfect for taking a leisurely walk or just sitting down for a moment of reflection. It’s such a calming spot, and the monument feels even more meaningful in the tranquility.

Looking for things to do in Lucerne? Many historical tours in Lucerne will stop by the Lion Monument, so these activities are a great way to learn more about the monument’s history. The local guides often share fascinating stories about how the monument came to be, giving you a deeper connection to this iconic site. It’s a must-see, and a visit here will make you appreciate Lucerne’s rich history even more!

1. Explore the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower

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The Chapel Bridge is one of those Lucerne attractions that you just can’t miss. It’s Europe’s oldest covered bridge, dating all the way back to 1332! Built as part of the city’s fortifications, it holds a lot of history. 

Exploring this bridge is one of the best things to do in Lucerne for anyone eager to fully immerse themselves in the city’s charm!

While the bridge suffered damage from a fire in 1993, it was beautifully rebuilt and fireproofed. Here’s a cool tip—if you cross the bridge, take a moment to look up! About 30 little paintings survived the fire, offering a glimpse into Lucerne’s past.

Try wandering through this historic bridge in the early morning for a peaceful start to your day. The crowds are thinner, and the quiet is perfect for enjoying the colorful flowers that line the bridge, which really pop against the old wooden beams. Don’t forget to check out the Water Tower nearby, too. This place has a fascinating history, having once served as a dungeon and treasury in medieval times!

Consider joining this Lucerne walking and boat tour. This tour takes you across the Chapel Bridge and explores other historical sites, giving you more ideas of what to do in Lucerne. 

What are the things you can do in Lucerne for a day? 

If you plan to visit Lucerne for a day, there's plenty to see and do! Start by exploring the historic Old Town, wandering through cobblestone streets, and stopping by iconic sights like the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. You can then hop on a scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

For a bit of adventure, take the cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus or go to Mount Rigi for breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. If you’re more into history, the Swiss Museum of Transport and the Rosengart Collection offer fascinating exhibits that are sure to make your visit memorable. You can finish the day with a relaxing stroll by the lake or a nice meal in one of Lucerne’s charming lakeside restaurants.

Is Lucerne worth visiting?

Yes, Lucerne is absolutely worth visiting. There’s no shortage of things to do in Lucerne that will make your trip unforgettable. The city is surrounded by stunning views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne, so outdoor adventures like hiking up Mount Pilatus or taking a scenic boat ride on the lake are a must. Whether you’re after a relaxing day by the water or a thrilling mountaintop experience, you’ll find plenty of options.

But it's not just about the views—Lucerne also has so much history and charm. Wander through the Old Town, cross the Chapel Bridge, and pay a visit to the emotional Lion Monument. If you're into museums, there’s also the Swiss Museum of Transport and the Rosengart Collection to explore. With so many things to do in Lucerne, you’ll never run out of incredible experiences to enjoy!

Is Lucerne expensive? 

Lucerne can be expensive, especially when it comes to food and accommodations, but there are definitely ways to save! If you're on a budget, you can still enjoy the city by booking Lucerne accommodations that allow you to cook. Some hostels and rental apartments have their own kitchen. Also, make sure that your stay is near public transit so it’s cheaper to get around.

There are also plenty of things to do in Lucerne that won’t cost a thing. You can explore the beautiful Old Town, walk across the historic Chapel Bridge, or take a stroll by Lake Lucerne to soak in the views. 

Plus, visiting places like the Lion Monument and the surrounding park is free, giving you a chance to enjoy some of the best Lucerne attractions without breaking the bank. So while Lucerne can be pricey, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to make the most of your trip!