City break: Lucerne
With its cobalt-blue lake surrounded by mountains, sunny piazzas, and impeccably preserved medieval Old Town, European cities don't get more picture-perfect than Lucerne—especially when the weather is good. Often referred to as the Swiss Riviera, the 'city of lights' and its famous lake are embedded within an impressive alpine panorama.
It's not all about tradition, though Lucerne has also earned a reputation for its cutting-edge art, architecture, food, and music scenes. As the gateway to central Switzerland, Lucerne is also the ideal starting point for many excursions up one of the region's beautiful mountains, or an onward journey to Ticino.
Take a stroll through the Old Town
Switzerland isn't short on beautiful old towns, but many travelers agree that Lucerne's central district is the finest example in the country. It's all thanks to the impeccably preserved mix of medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical merchant houses that line the narrow streets and boulevards, characterized by their steeply pitched roofs and fresco-painted facades. None are more impressive than Pfistern Guild House on Kapellplatz, a historic guild house featuring a sprawling fresco of a family tree.
Discover Lucerne’s historic landmarks
Strolling onward across the flower-lined Chapel Bridge and its lesser-known counterpart, the Spreuer Bridge, offers an atmospheric introduction to the city’s medieval past. Above it all, the Musegg Wall—part of the original 14th-century fortifications—provides elevated views across rooftops and the lake, while the poignant Lion Monument, carved directly into rock, stands as one of Switzerland’s most moving memorials and a powerful symbol of Lucerne’s history.
Taste the local produce with a trip to the market
Withdraw plenty of Swiss Francs, grab a tote bag, and arrive hungry to experience the rich markets of seasonal produce that's farmed, caught, and produced in the hills and waterways surrounding the city. Known locally as Wochenmarkt, artisans set up stalls along both banks of the Reuss river every Tuesday and Saturday from 7am to midday (be sure to cross the river using the magnificent wooden Chapel Bridge or 'Kapellbrücke').
Of course, Swiss cheese should be at the top of your shopping list with the nutty Gruyère, smooth Emmental, hole-filled Appenzeller, and parmesan-like Sbrinz being particularly special in these parts. Meat eaters will be drawn to the smell of St. Galler Bratwurst and Lucerne veal sausages being grilled and placed in buns; and for something sweet, pick up a slice of Bündner Nusstorte—a buttery short crust tart filled with caramelized walnuts.
Travel back in time at the Swiss Museum of Transport
Opened in 1959, Switzerland's most popular museum features numerous fascinating exhibitions and simulations. With its collection of more than 3,000 objects, set across comprehensive exhibition areas of road transport, rail, sea navigation, and aviation, the Swiss Museum of Transport presents one of the most extensive museums for mobility in Europe. Further attractions include the Swiss Chocolate Adventure, Filmtheatre—featuring the biggest screen in Switzerland—the Planetarium, and Media World.
Get active in Engelberg
Located 16 miles south of Lake Lucerne is Engelberg-Titlis, the largest winter and summer holiday destination in central Switzerland. It sits in a wide mountain valley at an altitude of around 3,350ft, with a charming village and famous Benedictine monastery at its center. Special kids' activities, from a summer toboggan run and adventure playground to treasure hunts and barefoot trails, will keep little explorers entertained, while 311 miles of hiking routes offer everything from leisurely strolls for families to more strenuous routes for more intrepid adventurers.
Attend a music festival
The prestigious Lucerne Summer Festival takes place annually in August. A highlight on Europe’s music calendar, the festival explores different themes with each edition. More than 100 events take place at the striking KKL Luzern and other venues, including symphony concerts starring the world’s most renowned orchestras, along with solo recitals, chamber music, family concerts, and events throughout the city—making this an incredible time to visit.
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