Located in the heart of the country, surrounded by lakes and mountains, Lucerne presents itself as a city that summarizes Switzerland's breathtaking natural beauty. The moment you step out of the train station and see this city surrounded by a dreamlike landscape, you will pause in admiration. This city is one of the must-visit places in Switzerland, and here are some tips on how to explore Lucerne on a budget.
Note: If you are planning a trip to Switzerland, don't forget to check out my budget-friendly Switzerland guide and budget-friendly Zurich guide. You can also refer to my previous guide on the best things to do in Chur.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Lucerne
Capsule Hotel Chapter Lucerne
Capsule Hotel Chapter Lucerne is a great option in terms of price, location, and amenities. It is located just a few steps away from the iconic Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and Old Town in the heart of the city. Additionally, its location next to a Coop supermarket is perfect.
Inspired by Japanese capsule hotels but shaped with Swiss design, the innovative pod-style beds are arranged in a two-story structure. For extra privacy, you can opt for the lower pod for a small additional fee.
Accessibility has been prioritized with a pod that has special wheelchair access. The hostel features fully accessible bathrooms for disabled guests, with gender-segregated shower and toilet facilities.
Security is ensured with smart technology. Each pod's sliding door can be locked via a smartphone app using Bluetooth or with a 4-digit PIN given at check-in. This system provides access to both your room and your individual pod.
Inside each pod, you will find thoughtful amenities: a comfortable bed, adjustable lighting, a mirror, and clothing hooks. A quiet ventilation system ensures comfort, while the interior decor adds a local touch with cloud murals and images of the Swiss Alps. Luggage and shoes can be stored under the lower pods, and cable locks are available for security. A separate luggage storage room offers an additional storage option.
Afterward, there is a stunning common area with glass walls; this space transforms from a peaceful morning coffee spot to an excellent workspace and evening entertainment hub.
Whether you want to work, read a book on the comfortable leather sofa, join weekly movie nights, watch a comedy show, or bond with other guests over board games, there is always something for guests here.
There is an on-site bar where you can find baked goods, pizza, and flammkuchen at reasonable prices, as well as options for wine, beer, and soft drinks to quench your thirst. Chapter Lucerne proves that thoughtful design, comfort, and community do not require a luxurious price tag, with prices under 80 CHF at night.
Moreover, you can use the code for a 15% discount: CAPSULE15 at Capsule Hotel Chapter Lucerne, which is currently valid at other locations including Zurich and Basel.
Free Things to Do in Lucerne
1. Visit the Musegg Wall
The Musegg Wall, an ancient fortification that protected the city in the Middle Ages, is a historical symbol, home to Lucerne's wildlife, and a perfect place to admire the views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Located in the heart of the Old Town, exploring this wall, which stretches an incredible 800 meters and has nine towers, is a wonderful way to internalize Lucerne's history. The 31-meter-high Zyt Tower features a clock face that can even be seen from the lakeside. Jackdaws, common lizards, and insects inhabit this well-preserved wall, which is undoubtedly one of Lucerne's best-preserved historical structures. Note that the Wall and Towers are closed to visitors during the winter months (November-March).
2. Visit the Lion Monument
Designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen, the 'Lion of Lucerne' is a poignant tribute to the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. This rock-carved relief is 10 meters long and 6 meters high; however, it is not the size of the statue or the grandeur of the carving that is most striking, but rather the expression of mortal agony on the lion's face. Located in a park in the city center, this impressive grotto allows visitors to pay their respects to the lives of six hundred brave souls from the past.
3. Lucerne's Wooden Bridges - Chapel Bridge and Chaff Bridge
Lucerne's Chapel Bridge is the oldest covered bridge in Europe. This wooden pedestrian bridge crosses the Reuss River diagonally and features magnificent paintings depicting various scenes from Lucerne's history. The beautiful bridge suffered fire damage in 1993, during which many of the paintings were lost; however, it has now been lovingly restored. The bridge, along with the city's symbol and central Water Tower, filled with colorful hanging flowers, is a symbol of the city's beauty.
The smaller and lesser-known Chaff Bridge should not be overlooked. This bridge also contains many panel paintings; however, some of these paintings depict the ever-changing cycle of life and death. Built later than the Chapel Bridge, Chaff Bridge is not only shorter but was also intended to connect the flour mills to the Old Town. Bread was made in the bakeries of the New Town, and to reduce the risk of fire in the Old Town, Chaff Bridge served as an important route connecting the Old Town residents with a vital food source.
4. Swimming in the Lake at Ufschötti
If you are a sun lover and looking for a sandy beach feel between your toes, then look no further - there is an opportunity to swim in Lake Lucerne during the summer months as part of the green area known as Ufschötti. The park is located south of Lucerne's main train station and includes a 200-meter-long strip of sand adjacent to the lakeside. In the green area behind the beach, you can picnic in the shade of the trees or enjoy a barbecue. During the summer months, a beach bar offers hot and cold drinks. Other amenities include restrooms and showers to use after a cool swim in the lake. Sip on a cold drink while enjoying the beauty of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by mountains in the background.
5. Visit the Picture-Perfect Squares of Lucerne's Old Town
One of the best things about wandering through Lucerne's Old Town is the opportunity to enjoy historical views thanks to the pedestrian-only streets. One of these is the incredibly beautiful picture-perfect squares scattered throughout the city. Start at Weinmarkt; this was originally a fish market, but now pay attention to the beautiful fountain with its octagonal basin and limestone columns. The frescoes on the facade of the Hotel des Balances and the special fresco depicting the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine are also noteworthy. At Hirschenplatz, you will find a trade hall, a granary, and Kornmarkt, which has been the Town Hall throughout history. Pay attention to the facades of the historic houses in the square. Mühlenplatz is the largest historical square in Lucerne; however, Kapellplatz is home to the colorful Fritschi Fountain.
6. Shop at the Great Second-Hand Clothing Stores in Lucerne
1.FIZZEN Lucerne
The well-organized mix of fashion pieces, both new and vintage products, as well as accessories and unique gifts, makes this a must-visit place in Lucerne. It also has branches in Basel, Bern, and Zurich.
2. The Secondhand
The Secondhand offers a beautiful selection of second-hand clothing for both women and men. The Secondhand also organizes workshops where you can learn to repair or dye your favorite pieces.
3. Ziitlos
Second Hand: quite retro
At the Ziitlos branches located at Mythenstrasse 7 Lucerne and Industriestrasse 17, the name says it all. Here, those looking for a special outfit from past days or wanting to browse for cool unique items will find what they are looking for. You can also discover stylish home and fashion accessories in the small, chic second-hand shops.
A Few More Francs..
Swiss Transport Museum
One of Switzerland's most popular museums, the Swiss Transport Museum is dedicated to documenting and exhibiting everything related to transportation - cars, trains, boats, and planes. The presence of a planetarium and cinema completes the museum experience. Exhibits include replicas of various Swiss railway lines, examples of land vehicles, a Car Theater, a Space exhibition, various Swiss aircraft, cable cars, and finally a collection of artworks by Swiss artist Hans Erni. Holders of the Swiss Travel Card receive a 50% discount at the museum entrance.
Day Trip from Lucerne - Mount Rigi
The magnificent Mount Rigi, loved by writers, poets, and painters, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and in classic tourist literature and is an excellent day trip destination from Lucerne.
I recommend getting a packed lunch from the excellent local Bachmann bakery at the Lucerne train station; then board the train to Arth-Goldau. From there, you can transfer to the historic cogwheel train, which dates back to 1871 and is the first mountain railway in Europe. The journey to Rigi Kulm takes about 30-40 minutes in the comfort of authentically restored historic carriages, accompanied by fantastic panoramic views over the lake.
When you reach the summit, the views are breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see the Matterhorn and even the distant Black Forest from Rigi Kulm. There are great hiking trails from Rigi Kulm, or you can enjoy classic Swiss cuisine at the Rigi Kulm hotel restaurant. You can then walk down (which takes 3 hours) or take the cogwheel train to Vitznau, followed by a lake tour back to Lucerne. The train to Arth Goldau, the cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm, and the return to Vitznau and the lake tour are covered by the Swiss Travel System card, so I definitely recommend investing in this card.
Tip: Invest in the Swiss Travel Card
The Swiss Travel Card provides unlimited free travel on trains, trams, boats, and buses for 3 to 15 days. The day trip to Mount Rigi, including the return from Vitznau to Lucerne, is free with the Swiss Travel Card. Tip: Choose the Swiss Travel Flex that allows you unlimited travel (267 CHF). The card also provides unlimited use of public transportation and free access to 500 museums across Switzerland.
In addition to regional transportation, public transport in cities is also included - such as buses, trams, and funicular railways. Another great aspect of purchasing a card is that you receive a 50% discount on mountain railway tickets. There are many different options for purchasing a specific card, and it's a good idea to get a card that suits your needs. Routes are available for consecutive travel days or there is a flexible card option. You can purchase a card for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days. One of the biggest advantages of the card is that you do not have to wait in line to buy tickets. This gives a very luxurious feeling and definitely reduces the stress of traveling in a new country. People under 26 receive a 30% discount on their travels.
Some advantages of the travel card include not being tied to a strict itinerary. The flexibility to travel far and wide definitely expands the travel area. Switzerland is an ideal place to explore with its clear mountain lakes and steep peaks. Additionally, purchasing the Swiss Travel Card with the option to visit over 500 museums makes Switzerland an affordable and rich travel experience.
Where to Eat in Lucerne
Bachmann Bakery
If you plan to hike Mount Rigi or are looking for a nice lunch sandwich or snack near the train station, Bachmann Bakery, which has been serving locals since 1897, is definitely a place you must visit.
In addition to delicious filled sandwiches, if you are looking for something sweet, you can try Birnenwegge, a pastry filled with spiced pear puree, or Bündner Nusstorte, a traditional Swiss tart from Graubünden.
Chäs Barmettler
For food enthusiasts, the best deal is the hot cheese tarts you can get for just 2 CHF at Chäs Barmettler; this is definitely a must in Lucerne.
Wirtshaus Galliker
If you want to taste traditional Swiss cuisine in Lucerne, this is the perfect place. The secret recipes of the Galliker family, which has been open since 1856, and the key to their popularity are the various dishes on their menu, such as Tête de veau, tripe, bratwurst with rösti, and traditional local pastries (my preference is the pastry served with mushroom sauce - very delicious).
Where to Drink in Lucerne
Bar Frankys
If you are looking for friendly service, great cocktails, and good music, Franky’s is the place to go in Lucerne. Located on the ground floor of Hotel Alpina, close to the train station, the bar has a great selection of drinks. It also offers really delicious stone-baked pizzas. It is quite likely that you will make friends here and enjoy a few beers. However, keep in mind that this is a smoking bar; it is a rare exception in Switzerland where there are non-smoking places.
Shamrock Bar
When you ask locals about their favorite bars, the name Shamrock comes up several times. You can stop in front of the bar and grab a local beer or a pint of Guinness if you prefer; if you stay long enough, by the end of the night, everyone in the bar and pub will be your friend - such a nice place. On Mondays, they host a legendary chicken wings night, and the price is only 1 CHF - a great deal for Switzerland.
Chapter Lucerne
If you want to eat something nice at the hostel, you can treat yourself to excellent flammkuchen (14 CHF) or pizzas (14-18 CHF) along with a glass of wine (6.80 CHF) or beer (5.50 CHF). Additionally, on Thursdays between 5-10 PM, the hostel hosts a pizza and beer night, with a price of only 15 CHF.
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