Lucerne, Switzerland
Lucerne is the Swiss city that quietly steals the show. It’s not the study abroad crowded streets of Interlaken or the fast paced travel hub of Zurich. Instead, Lucerne charms with medieval architecture, photo-worthy bridges, mountain landscapes and maybe the most beautiful lake in Switzerland. Lucerne may not be what one thinks of when they are planning a trip to Switzerland but it needs to be.
Start by wandering through Lucerne's Old Town, taking a look at all of the colorful historic buildings, grabbing a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes, browsing the local shops, and of course snapping a picture at the famous Chapel Bridge. Just a short walk from Old Town you will find Lake Lucerne. The clear, glistening blue water with the surrounding mountains makes this city feel almost unreal. Old Town and Lake Lucerne alone could fill your itinerary, but that is just the beginning. No trip to Lucerne is complete without heading up into the mountains.
Mountain Excursion Mt. Pilatus “Golden Round Trip”:
The best way to experience Mt. Pilatus is the “Golden Round Trip” providing a scenic journey from start to finish while incorporating some of the coolest transportation methods.
You’ll start by bussing to Kriens, where you’ll hop on a gondola lift to Fräkmüntegg. From there, a cableway carries you to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. At the top there are multiple little walking trails leading you from one incredible view to the next, all varying in difficulty.
When you’re ready to start the journey back down you’ll ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway down to Alpnachstad where you’ll hop on a boat for a relaxing cruise back to Lucerne. This Golden Round Trip truly has it all: mountain views, light hiking, multiple unique methods of transportation, and a peaceful scenic boat ride that lets you soak in the beauty of Lucerne.
Sleeping Accommodations:
When visiting Lucerne, staying in Old Town is a must and Hotel Des Balances checks every box. Located in the heart of Old Town, with your hotel balcony overlooking the impressive medieval buildings, just steps away from cafes, restaurants, shops, and Lake Lucerne. This hotel is the perfect home base for exploring the city.
Bonus Experience:
If you're looking for a brief escape from the calm chaos of Old Town, head to Hotel Montana Art Deco. Enjoy a meal or a few drinks at their beach club restaurant while taking in breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, with Old Town glowing in the distance.
From lakeside walks and cafe hopping to mountain adventures above the clouds, Lucerne offers something for every type of traveler. Its effortless beauty and timeless charm make it feel straight out of a dream.
