While Lucerne itself brims with fascinating sights, sounds, smells, the surrounding area is packed with some of the most exciting and breathtaking day-trips in all of Switzerland.
Which is why we’ve compiled a shortlist of the most awe-inspiring escapes around Lucerne so that you can make the most of your Swiss holiday.
Cruise control: Lucerne Lake Cruises
Escape the bustle of the city for the quiet calm of the lake. These luxurious Belle-Époque style boats transport you into a stunning world of sunshine, gleaming snowcapped peaks, and sparkling water.
With breakfast, lunch, and dinner cruises, make a meal of it for the family or one of the most romantic evenings with your sweetheart.
Mountain magic: Mount Pilatus
Lucerne’s most majestic mountain, Mount Pilatus, boasts a myriad of mountain fun. Take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the snowcapped summit or enjoy the awe-inspiring views from the gondola or cableway. Enjoy mountaintop fondue or great grills from the delectable restaurants or on the terrace where the views are to die for.
Or even stay in the luxury hotel Pilatus Kulm 7,000 feet above sea level. A host of other exciting activities await all around the mountain for the entire family.
Rustic romance: Seetal
Wander through this charming Swiss village and soak up the beauty. Rolling hills turn into mountains in the distance, while the romantic medieval town is picture-perfect.
Culture meets natural beauty with castles perched over lakes where one can hike the well-groomed pathways, swim in the lake, or take a taste of traditional Swiss cuisine at one of the many delectable restaurants.
Path to the past: Schwyz
Pick up an original Swiss Army Knife from Schwyz, the town where they were first produced. Switzerland also owes its name to this small historical town located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Lauerz.
A perfect place to wander or check out some of the world-class museums, Schwyz is an ideal day-trip to escape the buzz of the big city.
Summit smiles: Mount Titlis and Engelberg
Take the world’s first revolving cable car up over 3,000m to the top of Mount Titlis, one of the tallest mountains in the Alps.
A fantastic location for skiing or touring, Mount Titlis includes the Titlis Cliff Walk which features the highest suspension bridge in Europe, as well as numerous summer hikes or winter ski trails. Five mountaintop restaurants will keep you well fed throughout a whole day of adventure.
Family fun: Klewenalp-Stockhütte
For fantastic family fun, the skiing area of Klewenalp-Stockhütte is ideal. Located just to the south of Lake Lucerne, this exciting skiing area boasts 30km of slopes with varying degrees of difficulty, 10 lifts and a ski school to help you build your skill.
There’s also central Switzerland’s longest sledge run, while in summer, the petting zoo, children’s playground, and a ‘marmot park’ for the little one’s while the adult indulge in the views.
