A familiar sight. In 1993 the Chapel Bridge almost fell victim to fire. These days the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe with its water tower is one of the most photographed sights in Switzerland. The bridge takes you across the River Reuss, and its ceiling paintings tell a slice of Swiss history.

Discover more on a city tour.

The Musegg Wall is part of the former city fortifications. Its nine towers reach high above Lucerne and offer a wonderful view. Behind the wall lies Hinter Musegg. Here you can steep yourself in country life, despite the surprising proximity to the city. Visit the hungry goats and the cute piglets and enjoy the range of delicious organic produce on offer.

Country life on the edge of the city.

The wounded lion is an impressive memorial, erected in honour of the Swiss guardsmen who died in the Tuileries Tower in Paris in 1792. Right next to it is the Glacier Garden with its glacier formations dating back more than 20,000 years. The dark interior of the mountain can also be seen here. Lucerne’s sandstone tells its own story in this rocky environment: from its formation in the primordial sea to its folding into mountain, right through to modelling during the last ice age. It is also worth making a detour to the Hall of Mirrors. Will you ever find your way out again?

The Swiss Museum Pass is the most economical way to visit Lucerne’s museums.

Lucerne is particularly appealing on hot summer days thanks to its location right by Lake Lucerne. If you like, you can cool your feet in the water after a long walk around the city. The “Inseli” is the perfect place to lie down in comfort on the grass and enjoy a drink. If you’d prefer to spend time on the lake than by it, a short lake tour by boat will be just the ticket. And if you’re in the mood for something a little more strenuous, you can paddle across Lake Lucerne on a pedalo.

Time to take to the water.

Numerous bars await you on your visit to Lucerne. Our tip: the Seebad – here, you can cool off not just with a swim but also with a refreshing drink. It also offers the most beautiful view of the sunset. Concert-goers will enjoy a visit to the Kultur- und Kongresszentrum Luzern convention centre (KKL). It hosts over 500 national and international events each year. Visitors to the city in search of a thrill with the glam factor will find just what they are looking for in the Grand Casino Luzern.

The best festivals and top events in Lucerne.

From atop Lucerne’s legendary local mountain, you can enjoy an impressive view of Lake Lucerne, the city and the 360-degree alpine panorama. Just a short, comfortable train ride from Lucerne, you can climb the “dragon mountain” on foot or take the world’s steepest cog railway. At the top you can enjoy some pleasant hiking or a treasure hunt with a dragon challenge.

Can you spot the dragon?

What would a city break be without a shopping trip? In Lucerne you can stroll in comfort through the pretty alleys and lanes as you go window shopping. A host of boutiques, chic shops and top-class brands await you.

Helping you keep track of time.

One of the best ways to experience Lucerne is through the stomach – from traditional fondue to exotic dishes or Lucerne’s favourite dish: Chügelipastete. There are some pretty restaurants along the River Reuss with the best views of the Chapel Bridge and the old town. On fine summer days, you would be well advised to make a reservation in advance.

Tasty treats and freshly brewed coffee.

In summer, every day is ice cream day. Our tip: Confiserie Bachmann serves freshly prepared homemade ice cream every day. You can choose from many different flavours and colours. The shore of Lake Lucerne is a particularly lovely place to enjoy an ice cream.

Speaking of refreshment: you can refill your water bottles with the best drinking water whenever you like at the numerous fountains dotted around the city.

Something for those with a sweet tooth.

Time to indulge yourself! The Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern lets you sleep like a king and wake up in royal splendour: A wonderful view of Lake Lucerne awaits you as you enjoy a cup of coffee in your room. And if that’s not enough, you can treat yourself to some delicious food in the restaurant, enjoy a drink at the bar or relax in the spa area.

Sleep in style like B.B. King or Mark Twain.