Chapel Bridge, lake & Mt Pilatus
Lucerne
Luzern · Covered bridges beneath Alpine peaks
A storybook lakeside town where a medieval covered bridge crosses the Reuss and snow-dusted peaks ring the water. Lucerne is the classic gateway to central Switzerland’s mountains, cruises and cog railways.
Top sightsSights
Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)
A 14th-century covered wooden bridge with a landmark water tower.
Lion Monument
A moving rock relief carved to honor fallen Swiss Guards.
Mt Pilatus
Reached by the world’s steepest cog railway and a cable car.
Lake Lucerne cruise
Paddle-steamers glide past mountains and lakeside villages.
Mt Rigi
The “Queen of the Mountains,” with panoramic summit views.
What to eatFood
Luzerner Chügelipastete
A puff-pastry pie filled with veal and mushrooms in cream.
Älplermagronen
Alpine macaroni with potato, cheese and applesauce.
Birchermüesli
The original Swiss muesli with oats, fruit and cream.
Good to know
- Buy mountain excursions as combo tickets to save money.
- The Old Town is compact and best explored on foot.
- Weather changes fast in the mountains — check webcams before ascending.
Getting there
Lucerne is an hour by train from Zürich Airport, with direct scenic rail across central Switzerland.
Next city
Interlaken