Just the word Switzerland brings to mind snow-capped majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and beautiful green mountainsides. Switzerland can be enjoyed as a stop on river cruises, a wonderful tour opportunity, an amazing train trip, and just a great place to park yourself and admire the unforgettable scenery.
Lucerne dates back to the 8th century and officially became the town of Lucerne in 1178. A gateway city, Lucerne is the perfect place to enjoy locally and add in day trips to other well-known places in Switzerland. This German-speaking city is not only renowned for its lovely lakeside location, but also its many historical treasures like the Chapel Bridge (the oldest covered bridge in Europe) and the Old Town (Altstadt). With an equally impressive dining and cultural scene, Lucerne makes an ideal starting point to a Switzerland vacation. You will want to try a few restaurants serving traditional dishes like rosti (a potato pancake) and of course fondue. The town center is relatively small and very walkable, great for a stroll after dinner.
Lucerne is wonderful to visit year-round. June to September is peak season, with the city’s warmest weather, staying around 75 degrees. Given its proximity to the Alps ensures cool weather, particularly in the evenings. November to mid-April is ski season in Switzerland, and Lucerne doesn’t slow down even as the temperatures drop. Shoulder season, May and October, is always a great time to avoid the crowds.
What to See
Chapel Bridge
Europe’s oldest covered bridge, Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), is 670 ft long. Built in the 14th century as part of the city fortifications, the wooden bridge was nearly destroyed during a fire in 1993. A stroll across the bridge is an absolute must, as is admiring the 17th-century roof panels containing scenes of Swiss history.
The Water Tower
Adjacent to the Chapel Bridge is the 111-ft water tower, the most photographed landmark in Switzerland. Built circa 1300, it was used for several purposes including a treasury, archives, and a prison.
Lion Monument
A sculpture of a dying lion is carved out of sandstone rock, and commemorates the fallen Swiss guardsmen who died in 1792 during the French Revolution. To see this touching memorial, head to Löwenplatz square and continue uphill following Denkmalstrasse another block to the monument. It is said that Mark Twain called it "the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world”.
Old Town
In old town you will stroll by quaint plazas, ornate statues, fountains, and a host of shops. Here you will find clothing, jewelry, watches, cameras, bakeries, and lots of Swiss chocolate. Stop by one of the cafes or restaurants for a local meal. The buildings in this section are decorated with frescos, a must do in Lucerne.
Musegg Wall
This famous wall was part of Lucerne’s ramparts from 1386. You may visit 3 of the towers currently open to the public and see an amazing view of Lucerne.
Lake Lucerne
The fourth largest lake in Switzerland, Lake Lucerne 24 miles long and is framed by dramatic mountains. The 33 villages on Lake Lucerne are best explored by boat. A popular excursion to the far eastern part of the lake, known as Lake Uri or Urnersee, is home to the Rütli Meadow, where Switzerland was legendarily born.
If you are looking for breathtaking views, history, and some chocolate, take some time in Switzerland, you won’t be sorry you did.
*Lucerne is an excursion on the Rhine Castles and Swiss Alps River Cruise. Cruise by 40 castles along the Rhine River and see 4 countries. Add the Lake Como extension and see Italy too! Click here to see the itinerary
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