Things to do & places to visit in Canton of Lucerne, Switzerland

Canton of Lucerne #4 destination in Switzerland 2023. The average rating score is 4.49 based on 39.7k traveler reviews, of 195 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Zurich, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 1:06.

Top things to do (47)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 KKL Luzern Concert Hall (403 reviews)
- Acclaimed performance space
Convention Centers

Renowned for its acoustics and commended for a spectacular design and build, it is a modern cultural draw in the city. A opening concert by the Berlin Philharmonic in the late 1990s was followed in 2000 by an official opening. Since then it has been delighting audiences and visitors. See more..
5.0 Skydive Luzern (131 reviews)
- I want to do it again!
Monday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Skydiving

I came to Skydive Luzern with 2 of my friends. I wanted to celebrate my 20th birthday by taking a leap. Mission accomplished! The team is amazing, going all the way to make it an amazing experience. Fabian really did everything to make me feel comfortable. My advise: buy the video and photos if you can, it perpetuates the wonderful experience. It's definitely worth it. The quality is top notch! Thank you all! See more..
5.0 Festung Vitznau (40 reviews)
- Everyone was very suprised at how interesting it was!
Historic Sites

I organized this activity for about 30 international coworkers. Everyone gave it rave reviews and were suprised at how interesting the tour was. Much of that was due to our fabulous guides who spoke perfect English and were very informative and fun! The bunker is very large - there are two floors - and there is plenty to see. Our group would highly recommend it, especially to skeptics. It is fascinating. Many thanks to the team for also accomodating our request to offer a kirsch tasting during the apero. A good time was had by all, and I would recommend it to others. See more..
5.0 Biosphaere Entlebuch (27 reviews)
- UNESCO Biosphere zone Lucerne
Nature & Wildlife Areas

The UNESCO site is about one hour out of the town of Lucerne,Switzerland. Ask the tourism office at the train station in Lucerne for a tour guide - there is an electric tour bus that can take you out. The zone is unique because of the centuries of peat and then flora that has developed there. Wear good hiking boots as rocks between peat are very, very sharp. Stay on marked paths to avoid damaging plants. If possible arrange for a farm lunch on the way up in the buffer zone - many of the buffer zone farms sell organic cheeses, yoghurt and honey and herbs. There are a large number of underground caves in the same area and caving can be organised with the tour office at the station. Must have a guide for the UNESCO zone and caving. See more..
5.0 Escape Challenge Luzern (25 reviews)
- Extremly Fun!
Monday: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

You're looking for a challenge? Visit Escape Challenge Luzern and experience an unforgettable adventure! Whether with friends, or colleagues - all that matters is teamwork and cleveness. You've got 60min. Let's go the time is running! See more..
5.0 Swisspecial (20 reviews)
- Amazing day with local expert!
Monday: 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM City Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

My wife and I had an amazing day of private custom touring with Pascal with included: small cable car over dreamy landscapes, artesian mountain cheese maker, authentic Swiss lunch in a historic building, alpine waterfall, and chocolate tasting and making! An amazing day from start to finish, all the while enjoying Swiss mountain roads in a Porsche Cayenne GTS! Pascal has a true love for his home country, is a wealth of knowledge, and a gifted guide. Highly recommend SWISSPECIAL and Pascal to anyone looking for custom central Swiss tours! See more..
5.0 Virtual Area (17 reviews)
- Amazing experience
Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers

Experience the ultimate virtual reality adventure on the largest play area in Switzerland with up to 6 people! Virtual Area is pure adrenaline! Because in our worlds you move on a playing area of more than 300m2 and immerse yourself completely with a 4K resolution for each eye and a field of view of 170°! Even more real: With our full body tracking, your body movements are projected 1:1 into the game, allowing you to see your virtual body and your teammates and interact with them. You don't have to worry about motion sickness with us either, because we develop our system and game ourselves and have optimally coordinated them. We take you and your team into a virtual world where you can leave everyday life behind for around 30 minutes. Your big grin - and therefore your joy - are the reasons why we do what we do. We want you to be able to experience a unique event with us that you have never experienced before and will not soon forget. Be part of us. Book your appointment today! See more..
4.5 Chapel Bridge (6.457 reviews)
- Charmingly flower bedecked
Bridges

Delightful in a glorious early autumn day, it is a beautiful sight across the river. Charmingly bedecked with vibrant flowers along its full extent, it is a premier attraction in the city. It was great to see the forest of wooden beams while traversing it. Another unique feature are the array of paintings in triangular holdings along it. They were created during the 1600s as part of the Counter Reformation and strongly promoted the Catholic faith. Originally numbering 158 in total, after a devastating 1993 fire only 30 could be fully salvaged. An adjacent octagonal tower stands in the river and was actually in existence a few decades before the bridge. It is an added attraction in the full vista. Down the centuries it has had numerous roles such as prison and archive store. See more..
4.5 Pilatus Luzern (6.256 reviews)
- Easy trip, spectacular views
Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Ski & Snowboard Areas

This was a great day trip from Lucerne. An expensive tour is unnecessary, this is easily done on your own. Take the bus to Kriens from Lucerne railway station. 10 mins). From there its a short walk to the Gondola (about 8 minutes uphill ) Buy your tickets here. The gondola takes you to an area with tobogganing,ziplining and other activities suitable for most ages groups. There's even a kids zipline. From there there's a cable car which takes you to the top of Pilatus. Really spectacular area. Can have lunch in cafe there or pack a picnic. From there its easy to take the train down. The railway is next to the cable car station. My recommendation is to travel in this sequence. The group tours start with the boat and then the train, which leads to huge queues for the train in high season. Reversing the order can save a lot of time. I'd leave the boat trip for another day if you have time, and enjoy more of the beautiful lake. See more..
4.5 Lake Lucerne (5.236 reviews)
- Excellent “Fish and Chip” Lunch on SS Uri
Bodies of Water

I was out and about in the region on what turned out to be a horrendously wet day. The original plan for open air activities was very much not going to happen so at lunchtime - when the rain really started in earnest - I jumped on the steamboat Uri. To pass the time to Luzern, I went into the first class cabin and had an excellent “fish and chips” lunch washed down with a very acceptable bottle of local beer. The price tag was a bit steep - but you are paying both Swiss prices and for the privilege of being on a vintage paddle steamer. Service was attentive but not obtrusive. I would throughly recommend for when the weather plays havoc with your planned activities! See more..
4.5 Lion Monument (4.693 reviews)
- A sad backstory of the monument but perfect memorial to dedicate to those who lost their lives
Open now - 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Monuments & Statues

This monument is dedicated to the Swiss guards who were killed (I would even say massacred due to the astonishing numbers). They received a note from the King (of France) to withdraw from the barracks far too late, when they were already overwhelmed.

This connection with France explains the fleur-de-lys shield that the Swiss lion is resting on. And of course, the cross is a universal Swiss symbol so that doesn't need any explanation.

Yes, pretty moving after hearing the backstory. Perfect place to reflect. Perfect monument to dedicate. You should drop by. Just within the downtown area of Lucerne. Walking distance. See more..
4.5 Old Town Lucerne (2.960 reviews)
- CH most beautiful old town
Spent 1-2 hours Neighborhoods

During our 8 days Swiss tour we visited 7 cities and Lucerne was the cutest one - such a compact town, set by the Reuss river and Lucerne lake. The medieval old town along with old city walls and watchtowers guarding the fairy tale town with it's iconic Chapel bridge was a pleasure to explore. Everything is packed in a walking distance. See more..
4.5 Mt. Rigi (2.459 reviews)
- Fantastic day out.
Mountains

Known as the ‘Queen of the Mountains’, Mt. Rigi is an easy day trip from Lucerne. Here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Swiss Alps, visit a cheese farm, go hiking, visit the Kanzeli viewpoint, and even go skiing or sledding in the winter. Getting to the mountain is part of the fun, with the journey—that’s entirely free with a Swiss Travel Pass— involving a boat ride and a cog railway jaunt. Otherwise, have a hassle-free experience with a tour, with optional entrance to the Rigi Kaltbad Mineral Baths, a cruise along Lake Lucerne, or an additional visit to Mt. Pilatus. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Verkehrshaus der Schweiz (2.178 reviews) from $17.49
- Best Family Museum in Switzerland
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums • Observatories & Planetariums

Switzerland’s most-visited museum is a place to experience the history of road-, rail, water- and air-borne mobility, as well as that of space travel. Its interactive attractions are sure to win you over – whatever the weather. Switzerland’s largest cinema screen in the Filmtheatre presents documentary films in XXL format. Meanwhile, the country’s largest, most modern Planetarium offers 360-degree flights to the stars. The Red Bull Media World is where you’ll unearth new communication trends. And discover how famous Swiss chocolate is made from cocoa beans at the Swiss Chocolate Adventure visitor experience. Also try out the VR experience "Red Bull The Edge" and climb the Matterhorn virtually. See more..
4.5 Lucerne Station (1.388 reviews)
- Another terrific station
Spent < 1 hour Architectural Buildings

Swiss railway counts in world's best, and the same applies to their railway stations. All of them are in the very city center, with a bunch of other public transport lines in front to take you wherever you need. The station is a small town within a town with everything you need - food, storage, shopping,... The old facade stands as a reminder of a bygone era in front of the new modern edifice - a very successful mix of styles. See more..
4.5 Pont Spreuer (778 reviews)
- Marvellous crossing
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bridges

Acquiring its name because only chaff could be emptied into the river, it is wonderfully conserved. An impressive array of paintings on it with the theme of Dance of Death is superb. Highlighting that mortality is omnipresent and can strike at any time. See more..
4.5 Museum Rosengart Collection (775 reviews)
- Hidden Gem in Luzcern
Monday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums

The private collection of Lucerne art dealer Angela Rosengart is open to the public since spring 2002. Over 200 important paintings and drawings by more than twenty world famous 19th and 20th century masters (Cezanne, Monet, Matisse, Picasso, Klee, Miro and many others) are on display in a neo-classical building specially remodelled for this purpose. Near the railway station. See more..
4.5 The Nine Towers (758 reviews)
- Must see in Lucerne!
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

Absolutely loved this! Was a highlight of our time in Lucerne. Self guided tour of the rampart wall and the towers that are open. You can safely explore at your leisure and the exhibits and information is understandable and interesting. We really enjoyed the walk up and around the area. Would recommend to anyone that can handle some stairs. See more..
4.5 Jesuitenkirche (617 reviews)
- Breathtakingly beautiful... don't miss it!!
Churches & Cathedrals

No one recommended we visit this church, but we were so lucky that we have a habit of poking our heads in most churches we come across. This one proved an amazing surprise. The astounding baroque interior is crowned with fabulous paintings, sparkling gild, and a fantastic ceiling painting. The church was originally built in the 17th century, but has been renovated several times since, including most recently in 2017. See more..
4.5 Glacier Garden Lucerne (Gletschergarten) (616 reviews)
- Layers of formations
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Observation Decks & Towers • Geologic Formations • History Museums

A romantic park with attractions like glacial potholes from the Ice Age, a diorama, a lookout tower, and a typical Swiss Chalet with a Bistro & Shop. The newly opened "Felsenwelt" is an underground path through times and rooms. The museum located in the Swiss chalet displays artifacts from throughout the town's history. Moreover, the mirror maze "Alhambra" is a highlight for every person. See more..
4.5 Hofkirche (550 reviews)
- Main Catholic Church
Monday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Around 735/736, southern German nobles founded a small monastery at the site of today's Hof area, which was dedicated to St Mauritius. Around 1135, the autonomous monastery was attached to the Provostship of Murbach (Alsace) and St Leger was named patron of the church. In 1291, the Abbey of Murbach was forced to sell the Provost's Church and its belongings to the Habsburgs. In 1332, Lucerne joined the Helvetic Confederation. By 1433, the City of Lucerne had regained its rights from the Habsburgs, including those affecting the mo- nastery. In 1455/56, the Benedictine monastery was converted into a convent of Canon Regulars. Since then, the Canon Regulars have devoted themselves to the Liturgy of the Hours every day in the mornings and evenings. On Easter Sunday 1633, the church was burned to its foundations. The Jesuit Brother Ja- kob Kurrer from Ingolstadt was charged with the reconstruction of the church. Its consecration took place after the installation of the art works in 1644. See more..
4.5 KKL Luzern - Lucerne Culture and Convention Centre (358 reviews)
- Great performance on such a beautiful concert hall on lakeside.
Architectural Buildings • Convention Centers

We Visite yesterday one of Sommer Luzern festival Programm. It was such a great concert with full of emotion and young spirit. The orchestra came from Peru and all young musicians including deligent and solo tenor singer are so good, that almost all audience are standing and clapping hands for some additional pieces. Because of full seats and short break we could not reach the bar, but we enjoyed the rooftop view and after concert we enjoyed the lake view from Klo to the station. It was dream night and we can recommend everybody for such a great music experience with great setting on the lake side. Thank you for Organise of Klo and great young musician who came auch a long distance to Switzerland. See more..
4.5 Bourbaki Panorama (306 reviews)
- Great and instructive movie-like mechanism
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums • History Museums

This gigantic panoramic work by Edouard Castres from 1881 is 112 metres long and 10 metres high and is one of the most impressive spectacles in the history of the Panorama medium..It depicts the eastern French army under General Bourbaki during.its memorable escape to Switzerland during the Franco-Prussian War in.the harsh winter of 1871. The internment.of the 87,000-strong battalion is regarded as the largest admission of refugees ever carried out by Switzerland. A sculptured terrain with figures and props is placed in front of the painting, giving the entire scene a remarkable three-dimensional effect. This huge space depicts the huge mass of people as well as many individual fates and humanitarian acts. Edouard Castres, who produced the painting, was an “embedded” artist in a sense as he accompanied the army as a Red Cross volunteer. See more..
4.5 Musegg Wall (273 reviews)
- Great views of Lucern
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Historic Sites

Museggmauer is the old medieval town fortification wall which protected the town of Lucern from the northern side. Along it are nine watch towers starting with Nolliturm which is down by the Reuss river. Walk along the walls path offers great views. See more..
4.5 Kornmarkt (263 reviews)
- Exceptionally beautiful buildings
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Exceptionally beautiful buildings are the hallmark. Including the grand and historic Town Hall. A multiplicity of grand architectural styles make the plaza one of the most attractive areas in the grand city. See more..
4.5 Uferpromenade Weggis (213 reviews)
- Just stunning
Historic Walking Areas

Even though I’m Swiss I’ve only just recently discovered this area around the lake of the Lucerne. In my view, it is probably one of the prettiest section, due to not being built up. Walking along the lake from Weggis boat stop all along to Hertenstein is a must if you’re in the area. See more..
4.5 Aeschbach Chocolatier (150 reviews)
- So much chocolate so little time
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Speciality Museums

Visit our unforgettable ChocoWorld with a view of the ChocoFactory and Mount Pilatus. An interactive tour will take you through the history of chocolate and the production of our delicious house specialities. Experience pure culinary delight and create your personal chocolate bar with our chocolatiers or taste a selection of our freshly prepared chocolate specialities. Just a few of the attractions that await you. We look forward to your visit. Only 10 minutes by train or by car from the centre of Lucerne. Asmission CHF 15.00 Per person (over 16 years) including a voucher (CHF 5.00) for our ChocoCafé or our ChocoStores. CHF 8.00 per children from 6 to 16 years; children younger than 6 years are free of charge. Additional offer ChocoWorld Plus Choose from a big variety of Ingrediens and create your own personal 200g Aeschbach chocolate bar. CHF 10.00 per bar See more..
4.5 Richard Wagner Museum (137 reviews)
- Interesting place for Wagnerites
Speciality Museums • History Museums

Like Bayreuth, one of those places which attracts Wagnerites. Unlike Bayreuth, there isn’t much here. Still, they have Nietzsche’s death mask, some of Wagner’s clothes, portraits of der Meister, the inevitable piano... And, believe it or not, the original communion bread used in the 1899 performance of Parsifal, in Bayreuth. It’ll take you about an hour to see the museum, unless you’re especially devout. Be aware that it shuts for lunch – check the opening hours before you take the path down by the lake (about 20 minutes walk from the station). See more..
4.5 Nadelwehr (117 reviews)
- Still regulating Lake water level
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Piers & Boardwalks • Bridges • Lookouts

Fascinating that it continues to be used to regulate the level of water in the Lake. For the key reason of preventing flooding. All resulting from technology of the mid 1800s when it was unveiled. Achieved by manually removing or inserting timber needles that comprise the structure. White-water was to be seen, resulting from the rapid pouring through the narrow aperture. See more..
4.5 Franziskanerkirche (69 reviews)
- A study in contrasts
Churches & Cathedrals

Beautiful and unassuming.We thought this was the back entrance to the Jesuit church. Wandered in and wow. You have to go to the front and peer through the gates and admire the exquisite woodwork. I took this picture and probably wasn't supposed to and will be haunted for the rest of my life but it was so serene and grotesque at the same time. See more..