Intro

Lucerne's landmark is considered to be Europe's oldest covered bridge. It was built in the 14th century and was originally a part of the city fortifications. The pictorial panels, which were incorporated in the 17th century, contain scenes of Swiss history as well as the Lucerne's history.

Lucerne is especially well-known for its wooden bridges. Today, the Chapel Bridge runs from the New Town on the southern bank of the Reuss to the Rathausquai in the medieval Old Town, zigzagging as it passes the impressive Water Tower.

Lucerne's landmark is considered to be Europe's oldest covered bridge. It was built in 1332 and was originally a part of the city fortifications. The pictorial panels, which were incorporated in the 17th century, contain scenes of Swiss history as well as the Lucerne's history, including the biographies of the city's patron saints, St. Leodegar and St. Maurice.

Lucerne’s water tower is a powerful yet attractive construction. This octagonal tower - over 34 meters high (111.5 ft.) - was built around 1300 as part of the city wall and used as an archive, treasury, prison and torture chamber. Today, the middle floor is home to the headquarters of the Lucerne Artillery Association. Meanwhile, a colony of Alpine Swifts has been roosting under the rooftop for decades. When these black and white birds return from their winter home in Africa, they bring springtime back to Lucerne.

At the outflow of the river Reuss, a historic needle dam, built in 1860, regulates the water level of the lake. The nearby Old Town boasts a town hall which dates back to the Late Renaissance as well as a Jesuit church, Switzerland's oldest Baroque church.

 

General information

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Time required
2 to 4 hours (half day)
Suitable for children with age
14+ years
Weather
Outdoor
Category
Culture, Education, Urban

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Contact

Luzern Tourismus AG
Zentralstrasse 5
6002  Luzern
Switzerland

Phone  +41 41 227 17 17
luzern@luzern.com
luzern.com
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Overview

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Overview
Lucerne
Lucerne – Lake Lucerne
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Contact

Luzern Tourismus AG
Zentralstrasse 5
6002 Luzern
Phone  +41 41 227 17 17
luzern.com
Show Route

Travel information: Lucerne

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    For this whitewater adventure on the Lütschine, it's best if you have some rafting experience. You... from CHF 245
    Offer details


    valid: 13.05.2025 - 14.09.2025

    Learn more about From Lucerne: rafting adventure on the Lütschine in Interlaken
  • Lucerne "Legends of Lake Lucerne" Steamship Experience

    The four-hour steamship cruise features a five-course menu and exciting stories about Lake Lucerne.... from CHF 554
    Offer details


    valid: 15.05.2025 - 15.09.2025

    Learn more about "Legends of Lake Lucerne" Steamship Experience
  • Lucerne "The heart of Lucerne" - city tour by tuk tuk in Lucerne

    You will experience a city tour through the eyes of a local. Your tuk tuk driver is also your guide.... from CHF 120
    Offer details


    valid: 14.05.2025 - 08.11.2025

    Learn more about "The heart of Lucerne" - city tour by tuk tuk in Lucerne
  • Lucerne "House of Fear" virtual reality game in Lucerne

    You play the virtual reality horror game "House of Fear" in Lucerne. You are trapped in an old house... from CHF 129
    Offer details


    valid: 10.05.2025 - 08.05.2026

    Learn more about "House of Fear" virtual reality game in Lucerne
  • Lucerne Route 1291, 7 days

    Included: Overnight stays as listed incl. breakfast Daily luggage transfers Costs for luggage... from CHF 365
    Offer details


    valid: 28.06.2025 - 14.09.2025

    Learn more about Route 1291, 7 days
  • Lucerne "Women who moved Lucerne" Guided tour through Lucerne

    In this city tour you will get to know special female personalities from the history of Lucerne.... from CHF 30
    Offer details


    valid: 11.05.2025 - 25.10.2025

    Learn more about "Women who moved Lucerne" Guided tour through Lucerne
  • Lucerne Gotthard Panorama Express Ticket

    The Gotthard Panorama Express is a wonderful panoramic journey between Lucerne and Lugano. You... from CHF 164
    Offer details


    valid: 10.05.2025 - 19.10.2025

    Learn more about Gotthard Panorama Express Ticket
  • Lucerne Hiking: Round tour Lake Lucerne

    4 nights, A hiking adventure in the heart of Switzerland. The high altitude hikes around Lake Lucerne are... from CHF 965
    Offer details

    Price per person in double room

    Learn more about Hiking: Round tour Lake Lucerne