Posted on Posted onBy Miško

Explore the top attractions, rich history, and enchanting legends of Switzerland’s picturesque city

Lucerne is a key destination on any trip to Switzerland. Alongside its iconic cityscape featuring the lake, Chapel Bridge, and charming old town, Lucerne boasts numerous attractions and serves as an excellent base for excursions in the Lake Lucerne region. We stopped here during our road trip for one day and explored what it offers. Read to learn where to park, what to see, and more. 

You can find Lucerne in the heart of Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps. It is situated in the central part of the country, making it an easily accessible destination from major Swiss cities such as Zurich (about 50 km/31 miles to the north) and Bern (about 110 km/68 miles to the west). Lucerne is the gateway to the Alps, with iconic peaks like Mt. Pilatus and Rigi nearby. 

Where to park in Lucerne

Parking in Lucerne can be challenging, especially in the bustling city center, but the city offers many parking spots. 

Lucerne City Center Parking Garages

    • Parkhaus City-Parking. This parking house is near the train station (Zürichstrasse 35) and shopping areas, ideal for central access. It operates 24/7, making it accessible at any time of day. This facility offers 455 parking spaces, including designated spots for women, electric vehicles, and individuals with disabilities. The parking has video surveillance and safety measures like emergency telephones and fire prevention systems. The pricing starts at 3 CHF for the first hour, 5 CHF for two hours, and continues incrementally, reaching 29 CHF for an entire 24-hour period, and electric vehicles, charging costs 0.275 CHF per kWh. 
    • Parkhaus Bahnhof (Train Station Parking). A large, modern garage perfect for exploring the city on foot. It operates 24/7, ensuring accessibility at all times. The pricing starts at 4 CHF for the first hour, 7 CHF for two hours, and continues incrementally, with a maximum daily charge of 58 CHF for 24 hours. The parking facility accommodates vehicles with a maximum height of 2.10 meters and offers accessible parking spaces.
    • Parkhaus Altstadt (our choice). It is a convenient parking garage close to the Old Town. The garage is open 24/7, ensuring access at any time of day. Prices start at 1.50 CHF for the first 30 minutes, with hourly rates at 2.50–4.50 CHF depending on the duration of your stay and a daily maximum of 40 CHF. We also chose this parking lot for our one-day visit and paid 6.5 CHF. We appreciated the proximity to the city center. 

For Lakefront Parking, check out Parkhaus Kesselturm, near the lake promenade, which offers a scenic starting point for your visit—or Parkhaus Casino, which is convenient for those visiting the lake or taking a boat cruise.

Apps like ParkNow or EasyPark can help locate available parking spots in real-time. 

Basic Facts About Lucerne

  • Population: Approximately 82,000 residents
  • Area: 37.4 square kilometers (14.4 square miles)
  • Language: Swiss-German (with most residents also fluent in English)

The Legend of the Giant Dragon on Mt. Pilatus

One of Lucerne’s most famous local legends is about the mystical dragons believed to inhabit Mt. Pilatus, the towering mountain overlooking the city. According to folklore, these dragons had healing powers and often descended to the valleys to aid injured animals or humans.

The legend goes back to the Middle Ages when residents reported seeing fiery dragons flying around the mountain peaks. One tale tells of a farmer who stumbled upon a dragon’s cave while seeking refuge from a storm. Terrified, he found a stone with magical healing properties, later known as “dragon stone,” which became a symbol of the mountain’s mythical past.

Superstitions surrounding Mt. Pilatus ran so deep that, for centuries, it was forbidden to climb the mountain for fear of disturbing the dragons or angering spirits believed to dwell there. Today, Mt. Pilatus is a popular tourist destination, but the legend of the healing dragons continues to enchant locals and visitors alike.

Top Things To See in Lucerne

Spreuerbrücke

If you park at Altstadt, then the Spreuerbrücke will be one of the first things you will explore. It is one of Lucerne’s most iconic historic landmarks and a lesser-known sibling of the famous Chapel Bridge. The bridge was built in 1408, and it crosses the Reuss River, offering a picturesque glimpse into Lucerne’s medieval past. Its most fascinating feature is the series of “Dance of Death” paintings(Totentanz), created by artist Kaspar Meglinger between 1616 and 1637. These hauntingly beautiful panels depict the inevitability of death, a theme meant to remind viewers of life’s fragility. The bridge’s name, Spreuer, comes from the practice of allowing chaff (Spreu) to be thrown into the river from this spot. Today, it’s a serene and scenic place to stroll, offering fantastic views of the Old Town and the river.

Lucerne Old Town

Lucerne Old Town (Altstadt) is a picturesque and enchanting part of the city, where the past comes to life through its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and colorful frescoed buildings. The Old Town sits at the heart of Lucerne and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and charm. As you waddle through its charming alleys and squares, you’ll be transported back to a time when Lucerne was a bustling medieval city.

The Old Town has beautifully preserved buildings showcasing the city’s medieval past. Many of these structures are adorned with frescoes, telling stories from the city’s history, myths, and legends. Some buildings even feature whimsical designs, making the area feel like a living art gallery.

Lucerne’s Old Town is not just about its architecture. The area is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Rosengart Collection (an art museum featuring works by Picasso and other artists) and the Richard Wagner Museum(dedicated to the famous composer who lived nearby). 

Chapel Bridge 

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is perhaps the most iconic and recognized landmark in Lucerne and stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history. It was built in 1333; it is the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, stretching across the Reuss River and connecting the old town with the newer parts of the city. 

The bridge is adorned with beautiful paintings that depict scenes from Lucerne’s history, religious stories, and the city’s patron saint. These paintings, created in the 17th century, once lined the bridge’s interior, but many were tragically damaged in a fire in 1993. Thankfully, they have been restored, and today, you can admire reproductions of these stunning works of art.

The Kapellbrücke was initially built as a defensive measure to protect the city, serving as a transportation route and as part of Lucerne’s medieval fortifications.

Here are some basic facts about the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) in Lucerne:

    • Length: The bridge spans 204 meters (669 feet) across the Reuss River, making it Europe’s longest-covered wooden bridge.
    • Width: It is approximately 6 meters (20 feet) wide.

Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) stretches over 38 square kilometers (15 square miles) and reaches a depth of 214 meters (702 feet) at its deepest point. Surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, the lake’s winding shape is dotted with charming towns, lush forests, and dramatic mountain peaks, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various activities such as boat cruises, swimming, or kayaking.

The lake also holds deep cultural and historical significance, with several local legends, such as the story of a sea serpent that was said to dwell in its depths, adding a mystical charm to the area. The lake is also known for being a starting point for scenic train rides, including the famous GoldenPass Line, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Musegg Wall

The Musegg Wall (Museggmauer) in Lucerne is one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Switzerland. The wall was originally constructed to protect Lucerne from potential attacks as the city grew and expanded its influence within the Swiss Confederation.

The wall was part of a larger defensive system, with nine towers used for observation, defense, and storage. It was strategically built along the eastern edge of Lucerne to provide a defensive barrier against invaders. Musegg Wall was constructed using stone and brick; these walls stretched over 870 meters (2,854 feet) and were equipped with watchtowers, battlements, and gates. The most famous is the Zyt Tower, which houses an astronomical clock that is still operational today.

One of the most enduring myths is a hidden treasure buried beneath the towers, said to have been hidden by a wealthy merchant fleeing the city during a siege. 

You can explore much of the Musegg Wall, including the ability to climb some of its towers. Notably, the Zyt Tower and Männli Tower are open to the public, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The wall has become a popular destination for history lovers and those interested in medieval architecture.

The wall is generally accessible for exploration year-round, with the towers open from April to October, though hours may vary based on the season. Tickets for the towers typically cost around 12 CHF for adults, with discounted rates for children and groups. Always check the current prices. 

Mt. Pilatus 

Mt. Pilatus is a prime spot if you are an outdoor enthusiast like us. It offers a wide variety of activities depending on the season. It is about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Lucerne, making it easily accessible for a day trip. The mountain can be reached by a combination of cogwheel train and cable car, allowing you to experience the spectacular views as you ascend. 

Getting to Mt. Pilatus

  • Cogwheel Railway. The Pilatus Railway is the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, reaching gradients of up to 48%. It departs from Alpnachstad, located about 30 minutes from Lucerne, by car or boat and takes you up to the top of the mountain in about 30 minutes. The Pilatus Railway has been operating since 1889. 
  • Cable Car. Alternatively, you can take the cable car from Kriens, which is located a short distance from Lucerne. The cable car ride offers panoramic views of the city, Lake Lucerne, and the Alps as it climbs to the summit in about 30 minutes.

At 2,132 meters (6,995 feet) above sea level, Mt. Pilatus stands as a towering peak, offering striking views of the surrounding valleys and Lake Lucerne. The summit features an observation deck where visitors can take in the breathtaking vistas. 

Lucerne is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers. Every corner offers something special, from the charming streets of the Old Town to the stunning vistas of Mt. Pilatus and the serene waters of Lake Lucerne. Whether exploring the medieval Musegg Wall, strolling across the iconic Chapel Bridge, or immersing yourself in local legends and myths, Lucerne invites you to step into a world where past and present coexist harmoniously. Lucerne is a place that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Enjoy Lucerne, and waddle on!

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