Often called Switzerland’s prettiest city, Lucerne sits where Reuss River opens into shimmering Lake Lucerne, nestled among the snow-capped mountains of the magnificent Alps. Known for its preserved medieval architecture, the colorful Old Town is bordered on the north by Musegg Wall, a 14th-century rampart. The covered Chapel Bridge, Lucerne’s iconic landmark, links Old Town to the river’s right bank. Whatever the season, modern and prosperous Lucerne offers myriad activities from mountain excursions and boat tours on the lake to fine dining and cultural and historical sites.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Most visitors arrive in Lucerne by train from Zürich Airport, the country’s largest international airport and primary hub of Swiss International Air Lines. Direct trains to Lucerne leave the airport every hour and take 70 minutes. With its commitment to preserving cobblestone pedestrian plazas, Lucerne is best discovered on foot (walking tours are available) or by bicycle, using the popular Nextbike bike-sharing system. Lucerne’s public transport network includes buses and local trains; taxis and Uber also operate in the city.
LODGING
Spectacular views over Lake Lucerne, exceptional service, superior rooms, a third-floor outdoor beach bar with a Mediterranean feel and the immersive Kitchen Club concept all ensure a relaxing atmosphere for guests. Ride the funicular for a breathtaking arrival to the hotel.
Adligenswilerstrasse 22, Lucerne, Switzerland, tel 41 41 419 00 00
The 5-star lakeside hotel, in business since 1870, retains the charm of its past while offering the comfort and hospitality travelers expect. The hotel houses 41 elegantly designed guestrooms and suites, four restaurants with lakeside terraces, conference space and a pool with sauna.
Haldenstrasse 4, Lucerne, Switzerland,
tel 41 41 419 09 09
Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern
The iconic Belle Époque landmark has stood on the shores of Lake Lucerne since 1906, reopening as Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern after an extensive renovation. It offers 136 tranquil rooms and suites, legendary service, a range of dining venues and a holistic spa.
Haldenstrasse 10, Lucerne, Switzerland, tel 41 41 588 18 88
DINING
Take a seat in the middle of the action at the stunning 15-Gault-Millau-point kitchen and watch talented chefs prepare your meal right in front of you. The unique concept invites guests to see, smell, listen, touch and taste all at once. Open Wednesday–Saturday, reservations are accepted for up to 24 people.
Art Deco Hotel Montana, Adligenswilerstrasse 22, Lucerne, Switzerland, tel 41 41 419 00 00
In an Old Town house dating back to 1578 with a unique view of Chapel Bridge, settle in for inventive contemporary cuisine blending typically Swiss dishes with Mediterranean ingredients. Leave room for the delectable desserts! Children’s menu and gluten-free options available.
Kornmarkt 4, 6004 Lucerne, Switzerland, tel 41 41 410 36 50
Restaurant Bündnerland Luzern
Savor Alpine comfort and culinary delights overseen by Chef Fabian Dumitrache. Ranked first in the Best of Swiss Gastro 2022 awards, the restaurant spans three floors of one of the oldest houses in Old Town and offers a creative twist on local specialties.
Eisengasse 15, Lucerne, Switzerland,
tel 41 41 554 13 55
ATTRACTIONS
Chapel Bridge
Take an inspiring walk on Lucerne’s picturesque wooden footbridge, crossing Reuss River. Considered Europe’s oldest covered bridge, it was built in the 14th century as part of the city fortifications. The 17th-century pictorial panels inside depict scenes of Swiss and Lucerne history.
Mountain Excursions
Lucerne’s streets offer impressive views of the surrounding mountains, but there’s no need to admire them from afar. You can easily access many peaks, such as Mount Pilatus, Mount Rigi and Mount Titlis, via aerial cableways, either self-directed or with a tour. Some tours also include a boat trip on the lake.
This destination of discovery offers immersive and interactive exhibits about automobiles, trains, aircraft, ships and even space travel. Don’t miss the Swiss Chocolate Adventure to learn about the manufacture and transport of chocolate — and get a taste of the sweet stuff.
Lidostrasse 5, Lucerne, Switzerland, tel 41 41 375 75 75 verkehrshaus.ch
Read This Next
Global City Guidebook: U.S. Virgin Islands
GCGB 2023
Aug 5, 2023All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 6, 20267 Colorful Rooftop Sky Bars You’ll Want to Visit in Thailand
There are many attractions in Thailand, from temples and museums to the Royal Palace and stunning beaches, but do not miss the wonderful rooftop sky bars at these seven hotels in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Pattaya.
Sponsored Content
26 Unforgettable Luxuries Across the Island of Ireland in 2026
From dramatic coastlines and ancient sites to lively festivals and hidden gems, the island of Ireland offers unforgettable experiences year-round. Whether visiting for the first time or returning for more, this list will guide you through both classic favorites and underrated treasures.
Daily
Mar 6, 2026Landmark San Antonio Hotel to Reopen This Fall Following Design-Focused Transformation
Situated on the iconic River Walk in San Antonio, Texas, historic hotel El Tropicano will reopen as Sítio El Tropicano this fall. El Tropicano opened in 1962 as the first hotel on the River Walk. Trestle Studio and Michael Hsu Office of Architecture lead the transformation, with a modern, design-forward approach.
Daily
Mar 6, 2026World’s First Antarctica Hybrid Cruise-Sailing Experience Debuts
Terra Nova Expeditions recently launched a world-first hybrid cruise-sailing Antarctica expedition. This groundbreaking itinerary combines a purpose-built expedition vessel with an intimate polar yacht experience into one seamless journey.
Sponsored Content
Three Must-Do AmaWaterways River Cruises for the Entire Family
For travelers seeking the perfect blend of relaxation, cultural immersion and family-friendly adventure, few experiences rival that of an AmaWaterways river cruise. Recently honored in Global Traveler’s 2025 Leisure Lifestyle Awards as Best River Cruise Line for the third consecutive year, AmaWaterways continues to set the standard for authentic and inclusive exploration on Europe’s storied waterways. Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy spacious staterooms; exquisite farm-to-ship cuisine; enriching excursions led by expert local guides; and a warm, attentive crew dedicated to making every journey seamless. For families looking to create lasting memories, here are three unforgettable AmaWaterways itineraries worth experiencing within the coming months.
Daily
Mar 5, 20267 Hotels and Resorts for a Luxury Destination Micro Wedding
Couples increasingly prioritize intimate “micro” weddings with elevated experiences over over-the-top soirees. Smaller guest lists allow for more personalization and flexibility. These properties around the world offer fabulous settings for a destination micro wedding.
Parador de Almagro Review
eFlyer Reviews
Mar 4, 2026Brussels Airlines to Upgrade All Cabins
eFlyer News
Mar 4, 2026eFlyer News
Mar 4, 2026Mandarin Oriental Announces New Luxury Residences in West Palm Beach, Florida
Mandarin Oriental recently announced the development of Mandarin Oriental Residences, West Palm Beach, the brand’s first standalone residential offering in South Florida. Slated to open in 2031, the project will span 87 private residences positioned along the Intracoastal Waterway with unprecedented waterfront access.
Sponsored Content
How To Enhance Your Mental and Emotional Wellness on the Road
Prioritizing Mental and Emotional Wellness While Traveling for Business Business travel opens doors to professional growth and new experiences — but a demanding schedule, time away from home and work pressures can affect mental wellness. According to a 2024 Gallup study, with more than half of the global workforce reporting disengagement, supporting wellness on the road is more important than ever. Below are practical ways to stay balanced and energized during business trips.
eFlyer News
Mar 4, 2026AC Hotel Opens in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona
AC Hotel Scottsdale Old Town just opened in the city’s Entertainment District. The six-story hotel features 168 guestrooms, including 18 two-bedroom suites.
ShareThis