Lucerne & Central Switzerland
The gateway to central Switzerland, situated on Lake Lucerne and only 45 minutes from Zürich, Lucerne is embedded within an impressive mountainous landscape. It is the ideal base or starting point for many excursions to the highlights of central Switzerland. A trip up one of Lucerne’s regional mountains, the Pilatus or the Rigi, known as ‘The Queen of Mountains’ is a must. However, excursions up onto the Stanserhorn, the Bürgenstock, or a steamship cruise on Lake Lucerne with its many bends and arms are unquestionably no less worthy.
Complemented by gable paintings, the covered, medieval Chapel Bridge forms the centrepiece of Lucerne’s townscape and is considered to be one of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe. A further landmark of the town is the Museggmauer, a wall which, with the exception only of one of its towers, has been preserved in its original, well-fortified state.
Thanks to its attractions, easy accessibility, its souvenir and watch shops, the beautiful lakeside setting and the nearby mountain excursions, the town of Lucerne is a destination for many travel groups and individuals on their journey through central Switzerland.
Helpful Information
When to visit
The best time to visit Lucerne in general is in summer, which is July – September. However, it is very busy during these times. So, shoulder seasons are a good alternative, especially October – November, because the snow hasn't come yet and the weather is usually quite sunny.
November to December - Christmas Markets are a Swiss tradition for the festive season. As Christmas approaches, decorated and illuminated chalets appear in Switzerland’s main cites and the nights are filled with twinkling lights and a cheerful buzz as shoppers explore the stalls and enjoy classic entertainment, drinking in the festive atmosphere. Market stalls showcase local handy crafts, regional food specialties and much more. Some of the best Christmas markets can be found in Montreux, Zürich, Basel, Bern, Wengen, Einsiedeln and Lucerne to name a few, each with its own unique Winter Christmas experiences.
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