Discover Lucerne, Switzerland: From Boat Decks To Sky Decks
Discover six unforgettable places around Lucerne, from Alpine peaks to lake cruises and historic icons, with tips on routes, seasons, and experiences. Book now.
Table of Contents
Best Day Trips and Experiences Around Lucerne
Mount Pilatus
Pilatus delivers the classic Lucerne panorama. Travel by boat to Alpnachstad and ride the steep cogwheel railway to the summit, or start from Kriens with gondola and aerial cableway. At the top you find terrace viewpoints, short ridge walks, and a choice of restaurants. Summer is perfect for loop itineraries that combine rail, boat, and cable car. In winter the mountain shifts to a calm retreat with crisp air and big sky sunsets.
Mount Rigi
Known as the Queen of the Mountains, Rigi is gentle, wide open, and welcoming year round. Board a boat from Lucerne to Vitznau for the historic cogwheel railway, or sail to Weggis for the cable car to Rigi Kaltbad, then continue by train to Rigi Kulm. Expect meadows, spa stops, and family friendly trails. Sunrise and sunset light wrap the lake in gold, which makes photographers very happy.
Bürgenstock and Hammetschwand Lift
Across the water rises the Bürgenstock plateau, a glamorous resort ridge with one of the most dramatic viewpoints in central Switzerland. Arrive by fast lake boat, connect to the funicular, and join the clifftop Felsenweg path to the Hammetschwand Lift. The open air elevator glides you to a high lookout where the whole lake and the Alps open in front of you. It is a quick thrill with a very big payoff.
Stanserhorn CabriO
This journey begins with a vintage funicular through forests and farms, then switches to the CabriO cable car with an open upper deck. Stand in the wind and watch the cables run below you, not above. At the summit you find circular trails, marmot sightings if you are lucky, and relaxed dining with a panorama that feels close enough to touch. Choose a clear day and take your time.
Lake Lucerne Cruises
The lake is a stage for elegant boats, from modern cruisers to historic paddle steamers. Depart from the piers beside the railway station and set a course to Weggis, Vitznau, Bürgenstock, or all the way to Flüelen. Many sailings include dining, sunset departures, and seasonal themes. A cruise is also the easiest way to link mountain railways into a smooth loop without rushing.
Chapel Bridge and the Old Town
Chapel Bridge is the wooden icon of Lucerne with a stone water tower and painted panels that tell local stories. Cross the bridge, then drift into the old town for frescoed facades, small boutiques, and riverside cafés. Continue along the Reuss for postcard views, then climb toward the Musegg Wall towers for a change of angle over roofs and spires. It is the perfect low effort, high charm circuit.
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