This is Willisau
Willisau is a historic small town known for its jazz festival and the local Willisauer Ringli biscuits. It lies in the canton of Lucerne in Central Switzerland.
Discover Willisau
The heart of Willisau is its colourful old town with a broad main street. On a walk through town, you'll pass 3 fountains with unusual seven-sided basins. Their figures depict the apostles Peter and Paul and the Madonna with Child. Peter and Paul are also the patron saints of the parish church, whose tower dates back to the 13th century. On a hill at the edge of the old town stands Landvogteischloss Castle, with its decorated façade.
Jazz Festival Willisau
Jazz Festival Willisau is internationally recognised as an important meeting place for jazz music. In late August, you can attend concerts by musicians from around the world. The festival is particularly known for free jazz and improvised music. It was founded by graphic designer Niklaus Troxler, whose concert posters are part of the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Willisauer Ringli
A Willisauer Ringli is a hard, ring-shaped biscuit flavoured with honey and lemon. It may only be produced in Willisau. The first Ringli were made in a bakery on the main street, where they are still baked today. Eat one the traditional way: place a Ringli in your palm and break it into 4 pieces with your elbow. Then let each piece slowly dissolve in your mouth.
Around Willisau
South of Willisau, green hills rise towards Mount Napf. On one of these hills lies the village of Menzberg, which often stands above the sea of fog in autumn and winter. At 7 viewpoints, you'll find wicker beach chairs where you can listen to stories from the region. Follow the so-called Herzroute by e-bike through the hills of the Emmental to Burgdorf, with views of the Alps and the Jura.
Experience Willisau for less
Stay at least 1 night in the region and you'll receive the
Willisau Region Guest Card, available on your smartphone or on paper. It offers discounts on mountain railways and excursions throughout the Lucerne–Lake Lucerne Region. For a day trip from Lucerne, the
Visitor Card Lucerne gives you discounts on guided city tours and e-bike rental.
