Switzerland Guide: Things To Do, Eat, and See in Lucerne
Lucerne boasts being one of the most charming central Swiss cities in the German-speaking part of Switzerland and can be a fantastic base to begin a Swiss vacation. The historic city center, the proximity to Mt. Rigi and Pilatus, as well as the incredible beauty of the neighboring villages are tempting reasons to visit. More fairytale charm can be found in Lucerne when compared to some of the more metropolitan counterparts such as Zurich or Geneva.
Lucerne has served as a personal base for multiple trips to Switzerland. The combination of the lake, swans, and everything about the city is reenergizing and breathtaking. So let's share some of the favorites discovered along the way.
Visiting Switzerland is not for the faint-hearted, the rumors are true it is rather expensive. (one Ben & Jerry's pint at COOP was 10.75 CHF to provide perspective)
To See
Old Town
Stroll by the Bridge & What Not:
The first part of your trip to Lucerne should be arriving at the old town center, where the lake, the bridge, and the mountains all come together to welcome you. This is the time to stroll around and get acquainted with the city.
Lion of Lucerne
Denkmalstrasse 4, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland
What European city trip is complete without going out of your way to visit a (usually) pointless monument that represents the city? Well, I now present the Lucerne Lion.
Somewhat insensitive jokes aside, this impressive lion was carved in the cliff around 1821 by Lukas Ahorn and pays tribute to the massacred Swiss Guards during the French Revolution in 1792. Mark Twain described the lion as, "the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world." The best part about this monument is its location. One would walk past if they were not paying attention, which seems perfectly Swiss. Tucked away and unassuming, yet not compromising on its impressive attention to detail and most likely technical mastery to carve in a living cliff in the first place. If that isn't enough to convince you to take the not that far stroll over to the lion, I don't know what is.
To Eat
Old Swiss House: A little gimmicky but still an old-school gem
Löwenpl. 4, 6004 Luzern, Switzerland
A restaurant where the waitresses wear dirndls might feel slightly cliche, and sure it is a little touristy, but it is all part of the experience. *Bonus points: it is by the Lion Monument*
As a Wisconsin native, there still remains a soft spot for Supper Clubs, a restaurant reminiscent of a bygone era when people expected quality service, exceptional traditional food, and proper cutlery. When Old Swiss House was on the dinner agenda, of course it was exciting to see a Swiss Supper Club! Then again being in Switzerland in itself is like being in a time capsule.
Get the schnitzel, it is prepared tableside. An experience within the experience, then have the champagne to numb the pain of the bill.
Lemon seed condom included
Zunfthausrestaurant Pfisternfzen
Kornmarkt 4, 6004 Luzern, Switzerland
The bar on the first floor is also great to sit and look out at the river. Read about here.
Cheese Shop: Chäs Barmettler
Hertensteinstrasse 2, 6004 Luzern, Switzerland
If you love cheese this is your place! If you want fondue, this is also the place to go. It is so cozy to have an at-home fondue party, for the non-Americans, you can freeze the fondue and save it for the winter.
I was taught to never drink cold beverages with fondue (will cause stomach pain), and that it is typically reserved for winter.
Not of the MS Saphir, but to get the gist of the scenario
If sailing on Lake Lucerne in a panoramic luxury yacht seems like a great way to spend an afternoon, then you are in luck. The MS Saphir provides a luxurious way to sail on Vierwaldstättersee plus there are other boating options to fit whichever desire, including ferries to get to the neighboring cities.
Take the train to Hotel Montana:
Voted the hotel of the year in Switzerland, catch the train from Lucerne up to an Art Deco hotel with incredible views.
Auction House Fischer:
Seefeldstrasse 19, 6006 Luzern, Switzerland
The oldest Swiss auction house, and an incredible gallery.
Grand Casino Luzern
Haldenstrasse 6, 6006 Luzern, Switzerland
For when you are done on the MS Saphir and still want to continue feeling like James Bond.
Farfalla:
Schwanenpl. 7, 6004 Luzern
Stumbled upon this cute Swiss family-run essential oil company and store. If you are looking for organic and natural beauty products or high-quality essential oils this store is amazing. Ended picking up a couple of products from here! Great vibes and crystals as well.
Lucerne is just the beginning when discovering the incredible-ness that is Switzerland.