Holidays in Lucerne

• Grade: Easy
• Distance: 9km
• Walking time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Terrain: Forest paths, dirt tracks, gravel roads

The Engelberg Valley Trail takes you on a peaceful walk through one of Switzerland’s most picturesque valleys. Starting in Engelberg, the trail gently descends to Grafenort, passing meadows, forests, and the Engelberger Aa river. With stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valley below, the walk is both relaxing and rewarding. Along the way, you’ll pass charming alpine farms and have the chance to spot wildlife like deer and marmots. Engelberg itself is also worth exploring, with attractions such as the Engelberg Abbey and its cheese dairy.

• Grade: Easy
• Distance: 3km
• Walking time: 1 hour
• Terrain: Paved walkways, gravel paths, flower meadows

A place of dragon myths and rugged peaks – Mount Pilatus is a must-visit. The Pilatus Flower Trail offers a leisurely walk through a botanical paradise. Starting at Pilatus Kulm, the path winds through vibrant meadows filled with alpine flowers and provides stunning views of Lake Lucerne and the Alps. The trail is short and flat - perfect for families and anyone wanting to take in nature at a relaxed pace. You can learn about the flora and fauna along the way, and marvel at the unforgettable views.

• Grade: Easy to moderate
• Distance: 6.9km
• Walking time: 2 hours
• Terrain: Tarmac, gravel, forest paths

The Rigi Panorama Path takes you on a scenic hike from Rigi Woelfertschen-First to Rigi Scheidegg, following the historic route of the former Rigi-Kaltbad-Scheidegg railway. Along the way, pass the impressive Unterstetten railway bridge, an old railway carriage now used as a holiday home, and a water station once serving steam locomotives.

Enjoy stunning views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains, with lush meadows, wild hills, and striking rock formations along the path. An ideal hike for both nature lovers and history buffs, with opportunities to enjoy refreshments at alpine restaurants along the way.

• Grade: Easy
• Distance: 5km
• Walking time: 1.5 hours
• Terrain: Well-paved lakeside paths

A gentle stroll along Lake Lucerne’s shores, this easy walk from Weggis to Vitznau is perfect for a leisurely day out. The path meanders along the water’s edge, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. You’ll pass by beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy the view. The route is particularly lovely in the spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom.

• Grade: Moderate
• Distance: 4km
• Walking time: 2 hours
• Terrain: Ridge trail with some steep and exposed sections

A breath-taking trail with spectacular views across Lake Lucerne, the Alps and the Swiss Plateau. Starting at Klingenstock, accessible by chairlift, the trail follows a scenic ridgeline. There are rope rails along more exposed sections and some steep climbs to conquer, but the views are worth the effort. At Fronalpstock, relax at a panoramic restaurant before taking the chairlift back. A great choice for adventurous hikers.

Have your cameras at the ready as you spot up to 120 different flower species along the way. Your trip starts by boat to Beckenried, and then a cable car to Klewenalp mountain station - it's great for experiencing Lake Lucerne from a different point of view. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the three-kilometre circular trail - this route is suitable for families with prams, perfect for introducing little ones to the love of nature.

Stroll down the cobbled streets in Lucerne's Old Town as you travel back in time along the beautiful facades. Book a guided city tour or visit the famous Lion monument, a popular landmark in one of the central parks. Pop into the churches to admire stunning interiors, or purchase a museum pass to immerse yourself in the local history and culture.

Along the River Reuss that joins Lake Lucerne, located between City Hall and Chapel Bridge stands the stunning waterfront row of local restaurants and cafés, perfect for daytime treats or evening cuisine - here foodies will be spoilt for choice with lots of restaurants and outdoor seating – ideal for sipping cocktails in the sun. This postcard-perfect strip has beautifully decorated buildings and flower covered balconies.

Lucerne is home to many markets and charming boutiques. The colourful Wochenmarkt is held once or twice a week and is full of fresh fruit, vegetables and local cheeses. Other fresh food and drink markets include the Markthalle Luzern and the fish market. And, once a month there is also a craft market and the Monatsmarkt, perfect for collecting memorable souvenirs.

Book locally - guided 'Classic Walking Tour' of Lucerne

Two hour tour of the old town, including Chapel Bridge.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: Luzern Tourismus Tanja Müller)

Festivals in Lucerne

The ‘Blue Balls’ music and arts festival has some free concerts (approx. 19 - 27 Jul) covering a range of genres and artists. If you are more into classical music, then the International Music Festival (approx. 16 Aug - 15 Sep) is one of the world leading series that has been going since 1938.

Festivals in Weggis

The Heirassa folk music festival is often held over four days in June, bringing together lots of ensembles – making great entertainment paired with a traditional atmosphere to enjoy by the lake. In July the Rose festival brings together flower and food markets, live music and an incredible firework display.

Image: (Copyright: Schweiz Tourismus Jan Geerk)

Take a visit to Ufschötti, a small swimming beach easily walkable from Lucerne main station. With a reasonable sized lawn you can enjoy a picnic, game of beach volleyball, or lay back and soak up the sun before taking a dip in the lake or tucking into an ice cream. There's plenty of other lakeside lidos to discover too.

Swim, sunbath, dive, play, dine and relax at the lido in Weggis. You have full access to changing rooms, equipment and toilets for a full day of lakeside living. With a beach and volleyball court, this Swiss lake instantly turns into a whole new atmosphere - it even has a 25-metre indoor pool with Finnish steam bath and sauna.

Image: Copyright: Luzern Tourismus Beat Brechbühl)

Glide over the mirrored waters on a kayak, make your way to a nearby village on a stand-up paddle board, sail across the waterway or challenge yourself to some intense wakeboarding. Lake Lucerne is fantastic for its water sport activities, so why not gear up and try something new.

In Weggis and Lucerne, there are several options to hire a variety of water sports equipment locally.

Lake swimming is said to have natural healing properties as well as combining summer fun. Whether you're looking to dip your toes in to cool off, or go for a full lake swim, Weggis and its surrounding villages have you covered. Sunbath on the sandy beach at Vitznau's Brougier Park for ultimate relaxation with stunning Swiss mountain views.

Image: (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism Ivo Scholz)

Hop on one of the steamboats or motorboats and discover the region in no time. With first-class service and onboard dining, the options to choose from and experiences up for grabs are endless. Choose a specific route or simply hop-on and hop-off to explore the surrounding villages and mountain peaks.

We love the Golden Round Trip from Lucerne, combining a lake cruise with mountain transport to explore Mt. Pilatus. You can even get a discounted fee on the cruises with your included Swiss Half Fare Card.

Book locally - 1st class day ticket on Lake Lucerne

Spend the day cruising the lake, getting on and off as you please, with unlimited travel on the lovely boats.

Prices include a Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism Beat Mueller)

Soar above Lake Lucerne on panorama gondolas and aerial cableways to reach spectacular viewpoints and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. The cable car from Weggis will get you up to the great views from Rigi-Kaltbad in no time, and there's lovely walks to enjoy from the top.

Take a trip to Vitznau where you can get the cogwheel train in just under one hour to Rigi Kulm. Sit back and relax as you take in the beautiful scenery and experience Europe's first mountain railway for yourself. 

For children, the play areas on Mount Rigi are fantastic. Take a trip to Rigiland Adventure, Rigi Burggeist, Rigi Scheidegg playground, or visit them all. What more could a child want than a day of playground hopping.

Pre-book your Mt. Rigi ticket

Mount Rigi is known as the ‘Queen of the Mountains’. Take the cogwheel railway from Vitznau, and return by cable-car to Weggis (or vice versa). Ticket includes ascent and descent. Travel to and from starting point is not included.

Prices include a Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: RIGI BAHNEN AG Elmar Bosshard)

Local people once believed that dragons lived in the caves and crannies of Mount Pilatus. And if you look closely, the set of peaks does look like a dragon spine reclining on the edge of Lucerne. The dragon theme continues on the mountaintop with scavenger hunts, storied trails and kid-friendly zip lines. There are also footpaths like the Flower Trail, and forest tracks and alpine moors, as well as climbs for experienced mountaineers. You can get to Pilatus by gondola and cable car starting in Kriens – or from the village of Alpnach for a ride on the steepest rack railway in the world - you can do it all with the Golden Round Trip which includes a boat trip between Alpnach and Lucerne.

There's also plenty for children on Mount Pilatus - the the PILU Rope Park is the place to go. Children aged four to eight can join the mountain mascot on a treetop adventure. For older children and teens, the higher ropes course has a range of courses, from easy to more demanding – great for adventure lovers.

Let off some steam in the dragon-themed playground at PILU-land. Kids can balance their way across beams, whizz down the tube slide or climb across the wooden frames. Step inside the dragon's lair as you immerse yourself in an interactive and cinematic experience. Dragon World is perfect for days when the weather isn't so good, allowing the whole family to take part in skill-based games with amazing motion effects. Watch out though, the floor may turn into lava.

Pre-book your Mt. Pilatus ticket

The Pilatus Golden Round Trip is a spectacular journey up to the summit of Lucerne’s impressive mountain for wonderful views over the lake. Ticket includes ascent and descent. Travel to and from starting point is not included.

Prices include a Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Take a trip across the lake to the Hammetschwant Lift, the highest outdoor lift in Europe with breath-taking views from 1,132 metres.

Brave the mountain edge cliff walk at the bottom before you start your thrilling ascent up the Hammetschwant Lift. As you are taken up to 1,132 metres high, a whole new point of view is unlocked – so make sure to have your camera ready.

Have you ever thought of an open-air cable car? The CabriO Cableway from Stans to Stanserhorn is just that. Stand on top of the cable car in this unique seven-minute experience. At the top there's fantastic views and some lovely walks.

Book your Cabrio ticket locally

Reach the summit on this 120-year-old funicular route & cable-car for views over 10 lakes, alpine flowers, marmot park and revolving restaurant.

Prices include a Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Immerse yourself in the culture of Lake Lucerne with the help of many art, history and panoramic museums within the region. We love the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, where you can visit the gigantic road-sign building, learn all about the fantastic Swiss trains and see all the fun interactive exhibits.

Image: (Copyright: Philipp Schmidli Verkehrshaus)