Where to Stay in Lucerne 🇨🇭: Discover Best Places and Top Hotels

Lucerne, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, is a city that effortlessly blends stunning natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps and the serene waters of Lake Lucerne, this picturesque destination offers something for every traveler.

Our pick of the best hotels in Lucerne 🔥

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Park Hotel Vitznau
• ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Vitznauerhof
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel FloraAlpina
• 🛏️ 3-Star: DAS MORGEN - Hotel and Campus
• 💸 Cheap: Bellpark Hostel
• 🏢 Apartment: Lucerne Lake View Apartments
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Seehotel Sternen
• 🏩 For Couples: Château Gütsch

Choosing the right place to stay can elevate your visit to this enchanting city. From luxurious lakeside resorts to cozy boutique hotels and budget-friendly hostels, Lucerne offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the best neighborhoods to stay in and highlight some of the top hotels that will make your stay in Lucerne truly memorable. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the best places and top hotels in Lucerne!

Quick Lucerne Area Guide: ☀️

• 🏛️ For History and Convenience: City Center and Old Town
• 🌅 For Scenic Stays and Relaxation: Lakeshore Area
• 🏙️ For Modern Living and Accessibility: Bruchstrasse Neighborhood
• 🌄 For Scenic Views and Tranquility: Kriens
• 🌳 For Familes and Nature: Horw
• 🚶‍♂️ For Lakeside Resorts and Hiking: Weggis
• 🚠 For Boat Excursions and Mountain Adventures: Vitznau

1. City Center and Old Town of Lucerne – Best Place to Stay in Lucerne for History and Convenience 🏛️

🏰 City’s heart: If you’re a history buff or just love being in the thick of things, the City Center and Old Town (Altstadt) is where you want to be. The heart of Lucerne is a beautiful blend of medieval charm and modern convenience, making it perfect for exploring on foot.

🕰️ Time travel: The cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings adorned with colorful frescoes. Don’t miss:

• Chapel Bridge: This iconic wooden bridge is a must-see, with its great views and fascinating history.
• Lion Monument: A poignant tribute to Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
• Old Town Squares: Quaint squares like Weinmarkt are perfect for people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.

🛍️ Shop & eat: You’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to charming local shops. Here are some of my top picks:

• Pfistern: An upscale Swiss restaurant with cool views of the river and Chapel Bridge. Perfect for a romantic dinner.
• Restaurant Schiff: Offers some of the best views in Lucerne, along with delicious Swiss cuisine.
• Café de Ville | Restaurant Schwanen: Overlooking famous Lake Lucerne, this is a great spot for a leisurely lunch or coffee.

💡 Smart shopping: For a unique shopping experience, head to the Äss Bar. They collect unsold food from other bakeries and sell it at a discount the next day. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy high-quality pastries and desserts without breaking the bank.

🚆 Easy travel: You’re a short walk from the train station, making it easy to explore other parts of Switzerland. Plus, the area is well-served by buses and boats.

🍻 Night fun: When the sun sets, the Old Town comes alive with a vibrant nightlife:

• Jazzkantine: A pub, café, bar, bakery, and concert venue all rolled into one. Perfect for a fun night out.
• Opus: This Mediterranean restaurant has a charming patio with some of the best views of the city. Great for a relaxed evening.

🧣 Winter warmth: If you’re visiting during the colder months, don’t worry about missing out on the outdoor dining experience. Many patios are open year-round, complete with fur-covered chairs and complimentary blankets.

Lucerne hotels in the City Center: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in City Center

• Art Deco Hotel Montana Luzern This luxurious hotel offers breathtaking views over Lake Lucerne, the city, and the mountains from its hilltop location, featuring spacious rooms, excellent dining options, and a funicular for easy access.

• Lucerne Lake View Apartments These apartments are located in the Old Town and are near the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument, featuring modern amenities like a fully equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi, making them ideal for a comfortable stay.
• Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern The family-owned 5-star Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern boasts elegant rooms with lake and mountain views, offering luxurious amenities and a prime location near the Old Town and cultural sites.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Hotel Anker Luzern Hotel Anker Luzern is located right in the center and offers stylish rooms, a restaurant, and a bar & lounge, making it ideal for business trips, city breaks, or cultural excursions.
• Hirschenplatz Apartments These charming apartments are set in a historic building in the Old Town, offering modern amenities and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Lucerne’s rich history.
• Hotel Hofgarten Luzern This boutique hotel features individually decorated rooms and a beautiful garden, providing a tranquil retreat right in the heart of old town.

🛏️ Best hotels in Lucerne on a budget

• Liberté Luzern Situated close to the Reuss River, this modern hotel offers stylish rooms and easy access to Lucerne’s main attractions, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and business travelers.
• Capsule Hotel Lucerne This innovative capsule hotel provides a unique and budget-friendly accommodation experience, featuring compact sleeping pods and shared facilities, ideal for solo travelers and backpackers.
• Capsule Hotel Chapter Lucerne Located in the city center, this capsule hotel offers a futuristic and affordable lodging option with individual sleeping pods and communal amenities, perfect for those seeking a modern and economical stay.

2. Lakeshore Area – Perfect for Scenic Stays and Relaxation 🌅

🌊 Lakeside charm: This part of Lucerne offers amazing vistas of the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.

🏖️ Lucerne Lido: The Lucerne Lido is a fantastic place to spend a sunny day. It’s a great spot for families and solo travelers alike.

🎭 Cultural spots: Don’t miss out on the Culture and Congress Centre (KKL), which is right by the lake. It’s a hub for concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events. The architecture alone is worth a visit!

🍽️ Dining with views: When it comes to dining, the Lakeshore Area doesn’t disappoint. Some of my favorite spots include:

• Seebistro LUZ: A casual spot with stunning lake views and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Restaurant Hermitage: Perfect for a special dinner with panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
• Lakefront Lounge: Great for a laid-back meal or a drink while watching the sunset.

🚤 Boat cruises: One of the best ways to explore Lake Lucerne is by taking a boat cruise. There are various options, from short trips to full-day excursions. It’s a fantastic way to see the lake and the surrounding scenery from a different perspective.

Top Tip: For a truly memorable experience, consider taking a sunset cruise. The views are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s a great way to end your day in Lucerne.

3. Bruchstrasse Neighborhood – Ideal for Modern Living and Accessibility 🏙️

🛍️ Shopping paradise: If you’re a shopaholic like me, Bruchstrasse is your playground! This vibrant neighborhood is a treasure trove of unique boutiques and local handcrafts.  Here are some of my favorite spots:

• Treger: A must-visit for the dapper gentlemen out there. Their braces and tailored menswear are top-notch.
• Mimoa: This little gem is perfect for picking up handmade accessories. I always find the cutest everyday items here.
• Local craft shops: The area is dotted with stores showcasing Swiss craftsmanship. Trust me, you’ll want to leave extra room in your suitcase!

🎭 Culture fix: After you’ve shopped, head over to Madeleine. It’s this trendy cultural venue that’s become my go-to spot for a good laugh or some live music.

🍽️ Foodie heaven: Bruchstrasse is home to a mix of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Here are some top picks:

• Mill’Feuille: A hip café known for its delicious brunch and cozy atmosphere.
• Bolero: Offers fantastic Spanish cuisine with a lively ambiance.
• Melissa’s Kitchen: Perfect for a casual meal with a homey feel.
• Thai Lanna: For those craving authentic Thai flavors.
• Grottino 1313: Offers an intimate dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
• Made in Sud: A great spot for Italian food lovers.

🚆 Transport tip: Bruchstrasse is near the train station. I always recommend basing yourself here if you’re planning day trips.

🏙️ Modern living: The neighborhood has this perfect blend of residential and commercial buildings. It’s got a real local feel, but with all the conveniences you need. You’ll find cinemas, hotels, and plenty of flats mixed in with the shops and eateries.

📜 History byte: Here’s a fun fact for you: Bruchstrasse used to be the site of the cantonal cattle market! From 1912, cattle dealers would haggle over animals right between the residential buildings. Thankfully, the residents put their foot down, and the market closed in 1971. Now, instead of cows, you’ll find the best boutiques and buzzing cafes.

Hotels in Lucerne, Bruchstrasse: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Bruchstrasse

• Bürgenstock Hotels & Resort - Waldhotel & Spa Situated 450 meters above the lake on the Bürgenberg mountain, this luxurious resort features the Waldhotel Spa, a health-focused restaurant, and perfect views, perfect for a rejuvenating getaway.
• Grand Hotel National Luzern This five-star hotel offers elegant rooms with amazing views of the Alps, along with world-class service and a central location near the Old Town and cultural sites.
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa Located in the Bürgenstock Resort, this hotel provides luxurious accommodations, an alpine spa, and breathtaking views of Lucerne, making it ideal for relaxation and wellness.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Château Gütsch Perched on a hill overlooking Lucerne, this historic castle hotel offers great views, elegant rooms, and a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
• Schloss-Hotel Swiss-Chalet Merlischachen This charming hotel, set in a historic castle, provides a great location, traditional Swiss hospitality, and easy access to Lucerne’s attractions.
• HITrental Allmend Comfort Apartments These modern apartments offer comfortable accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and easy access to public transportation, making them perfect for extended stays in Lucerne.

🛏️ Best Hostels

• Youth Hostel Luzern This budget-friendly place provides clean and comfortable accommodations, free breakfast at the hotel, and a convenient location near the city center, ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.
• Hotel Krone Attinghausen Situated in the picturesque village of Attinghausen, this cozy hotel offers comfortable rooms, a traditional Swiss restaurant, and easy access to hiking trails and outdoor activities.
• Business Apartments Anstatthotel These serviced apartments provide modern amenities, including fully equipped kitchens and free Wi-Fi, making them ideal for business travelers and extended stays.

4. Suburbs

Kriens – Great for Scenic Views and Tranquility

🏔️ Must-do: The crown jewel of Kriens is undoubtedly its access to Mount Pilatus. I always tell my friends, “You haven’t truly experienced Lucerne until you’ve conquered Pilatus!” The journey up in the panoramic cable car is half the fun, treating you to jaw-dropping views of the Swiss Alps. Once at the top, follow the Dragon Trail for some of the most Instagram-worthy shots you’ll ever take. For the adrenaline junkies, the Pilatus Rope Park is an absolute blast.

Insider Tip: Go early to beat the crowds. The first cable car usually has the fewest people, and you’ll catch the morning light on the mountains – it’s magical!

🌲 Outdoor bliss: The town itself is a nature lover’s dream. I often spend hours wandering through Hergiswaldweg, a peaceful forest trail perfect for a morning jog or leisurely walk. Sonnenberg, a local park, offers amazing views of Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. For a quieter experience, head to Schattenberg, a lesser-known spot where you can picnic in tranquility.

🍴 Tasty eats: Kriens has some fantastic local eateries that I can’t get enough of. My top picks:

1. Gasthaus Pilatus: Traditional Swiss fare with a modern twist. Their rösti is to die for!
2. Restaurant Obernau: A cozy spot with a great selection of local wines.
3. Café Konditorei Kriens: Perfect for a coffee and pastry break. Their Linzer torte is heavenly.

🔍 Hidden spots: One of the things I love most about Kriens is discovering its hidden corners. Bellpark is a small but beautiful park with a fascinating sculpture garden. On market days, Krienser Dorfplatz comes alive – it’s a great place to mingle with locals and pick up some fresh produce. For art enthusiasts, Galleria Kriens often showcases work by Swiss artists.

Time Saver: Kriens is well-connected to Lucerne by bus. Look for the number 1 bus – it runs frequently and will get you to the city center in about 15 minutes.

Accommodations in Lucerne, Kriens: 🏨

• Bellpark Hostel This budget-friendly hostel is conveniently located near a bus stop and grocery store, offering easy access to Mt. Pilatus gondolas and Lucerne city center, making it ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.
• Young Backpackers Homestay Situated in Kriens, this homestay provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with excellent access to hiking trails and public transport, perfect for young travelers looking for a homely stay.
• Hotel Sonnenberg Located in Kriens, this hotel offers views of the mountains, featuring a restaurant, hiking trails, and a mini-golf course, ideal for nature lovers and families.

Horw – Best Area to Stay in Lucerne for Families and Nature 🌳

🌟 Family haven: If you’re traveling with kids, Horw is the place to be. This charming suburb offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities and natural beauty.

🏞️ Nature galore: I recommend starting your day with a visit to the Horw Peninsula. It’s ideal for a family picnic or a leisurely walk along the lakeshore. For a bit more adventure, head to the Horw Forest. The trails are well-marked and suitable for all ages, perfect for a hike or a bike ride. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife!

🍴 Tasty treats: My top pick is Restaurant Seegarten, located right by the lake. It offers delicious Swiss cuisine with a view that’ll take your breath away. For a more casual meal, try Pizzeria La Baracca. Their wood-fired pizzas are a hit with kids and adults alike.

🚶‍♂️ Fun for all: Horw is packed with activities that the whole family will love. One of our favorites is the Horw Lido. It’s a fantastic place to cool off on a hot day, with a great playground and a shallow area for little ones. If you’re feeling more active, rent bikes and take a scenic ride along the lake. The paths are safe and offer beautiful views.

Here are some other family-friendly things to do in Lucerne:

1. Visiting local farms: Horw has several family-friendly farms where kids can meet animals and learn about farm life.
2. Exploring Bireggwald: This beautiful forest area is perfect for a peaceful stroll and wildlife spotting.
3. Attending local events: Horw often hosts family-friendly events and festivals, which are a great way to experience the local culture.

🚆 Well-connected: The suburb is well-connected to Lucerne by bus and train, making day trips a breeze. The number 21 bus runs frequently and will get you to the city center in about 20 minutes.

Lucerne accommodation in Horw: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Horw

• Seehotel Sternen This hotel features rooms with balconies, three à-la-carte restaurants, and lakeside terraces, making it perfect for a serene lakeside stay.
• Seehotel Kastanienbaum Situated on the Horw Peninsula, this hotel offers stunning lake views, a private beach, and a wellness area, ideal for a relaxing and luxurious getaway.
• Villa Castagna Guesthouse Located in Horw, this guesthouse offers a cozy atmosphere with free private parking, a terrace, and easy access to Lucerne’s attractions, perfect for a quiet retreat.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Anstatthotel Horw - Self-Check-In This modern aparthotel features self-check-in facilities, well-equipped rooms with kitchenettes, and is conveniently located near public transport, making it ideal for independent travelers.
• Hotel Felmis Located in Horw, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant with a terrace, and easy access to Lake Lucerne and public transport, perfect for both leisure and business travelers.

5. Outlying Areas

Weggis – Best for Lakeside Resorts and Hiking 🚶‍♂️

🏞️ Waterside bliss: Weggis is all about soaking up the lakeside vibes. I recommend starting your day with a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore promenade. For a more immersive experience, rent a paddleboat or kayak and explore the lake at your own pace.

🥾 Trail adventures: Weggis is a hiker’s paradise with trails that cater to all levels of experience. One of my favorite hikes is the Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad trail. It’s a moderately challenging hike that rewards you with amazing views of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps. If you’re looking for something less strenuous, the Weggis to Vitznau trail is a gentle walk along the lakeshore with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Here are some other must-try trails:

• Rigi Panorama Trail: Offers amazing views and is accessible via the Rigi cable car.
• Felsenweg: A scenic path with dramatic cliffside views.
• Känzeli to Rigi Kulm: A more challenging hike that takes you to the highest peak of Mount Rigi.

🍴 Lakeside dining: Weggis has a variety of restaurants that offer both traditional Swiss dishes and international flavors. Here are my top picks:

1. Restaurant Alpenblick: Known for its fantastic views and hearty Swiss dishes. Their fondue is a must-try!
2. Seerestaurant Lützelau: Offers a beautiful lakeside setting and fresh seafood. Perfect for a romantic dinner.
3. Café Dahinden: A cozy spot for coffee and pastries. Their apple strudel is simply divine.

🚆 Well-connected: Weggis is easily accessible by boat from Lucerne. The boat ride itself is a scenic journey that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive, but I highly recommend the boat for the experience.

Accommodation in Weggis: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Weggis

• Hotel Friedheim Situated in Weggis, this hotel offers cozy rooms with stunning views, along with a restaurant serving local cuisine, making it perfect for a relaxing retreat.
• Seehotel Gotthard This family-run hotel in Weggis provides comfortable accommodations, a lakeside terrace, and free public transportation tickets, ideal for exploring the picturesque village.
• Hotel GerbiThis wellness hotel offers a spa area with private suites, heated indoor and outdoor pool, and easy access to the Lido, perfect for a rejuvenating stay.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Wellness Hotel Rössli This wellness hotel in Weggis features a comprehensive spa, including a sauna and steam bath, along with beautiful lake views and gourmet dining options, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway.
• Seehof du Lac Located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, this hotel offers amazing views, a private beach, and a lakeside restaurant, perfect for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of Weggis.
• Campus Hotel Hertenstein Situated on the Hertenstein peninsula, this hotel offers a unique combination of a privileged lakeside location, flexible accommodation options, and excellent cuisine, making it ideal for both relaxation and inspiration.

🛏️ Best hostels

• Wanderlust Guesthouse This budget-design hotel in Weggis combines traditional Swiss designs with modern trendy pieces, offering stylish accommodations at an affordable price, perfect for travelers who appreciate both style and value.
• Hotel Alpenblick Located in Weggis, this hotel offers views of Lake Lucerne and the Alps, along with comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving regional specialties, making it a great choice for nature lovers and food enthusiasts.

Vitznau – Perfect for Boat Excursions and Mountain Adventures 🚠

🌟 Riviera charm: Known as part of the “Lucerne Riviera,” this charming village offers a perfect blend of lakeside relaxation and mountain thrills.

🚂 Rigi adventures: Vitznau is the gateway to the “Queen of the Mountains” – Rigi. The Vitznau-Rigi railway, Europe’s first mountain railway, is an experience in itself. As you climb up, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of the lake and surrounding Alps.

Here are some must-try activities on Rigi:

1. Hiking: With over 120km of trails, there’s something for every level. The Rigi Panorama Trail is my personal favorite.
2. Rigi Kulm: At the summit, you can see 13 lakes and a sea of Alpine peaks. On a clear day, you might even spot the Black Forest in Germany!
3. Mineral Baths & Spa: After a day of hiking, soothe your muscles in the mineral baths at Rigi Kaltbad.

Money Saver: Look into the guest cards for the Weggis-Vitznau-Rigi region. They offer great discounts on mountain railways and local transport.

🧀 Local flavors: I highly recommend trying the local cheese at Chäserenholz dairy or indulging in some Felchlin chocolate.

🕵️ Secret spots: One of Vitznau’s best-kept secrets is the Artillery Fortress, hidden in the Rigi rock. This former military installation offers a fascinating glimpse into Switzerland’s wartime history. For nature lovers, I suggest exploring the prehistoric caves or following the fox trails – it’s a fun way to discover the region’s natural beauty.

Top Tip: Visit the local “hiesige Märt” market to sample fresh local produce and mingle with locals. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Accommodation in Vietznaw: 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Vietznaw

• Park Hotel Vitznau This luxurious hotel, located right on the banks of Lake Lucerne, features a private beach, two gourmet restaurants, a large spa area, and individually designed suites, perfect for a high-end, relaxing stay.
• Hotel Vitznauerhof Situated directly on Lake Lucerne, this lifestyle hideaway offers elegant rooms, a wellness area, and a lakeside terrace, ideal for couples seeking a romantic and serene getaway.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Hotel FloraAlpina The hotel is located near Lake Lucerne, this hotel offers individually furnished rooms with stunning mountain and lake views, a wellness area, and beautiful gardens, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and seminars.
• DAS MORGEN - Hotel and Campus This unique hotel and campus in Vitznau combines culture and culinary delights with modern accommodations, featuring an open marketplace for cuisine and music, and a focus on neuroscience, ideal for an enriching stay.

FAQs about trips to Lucerne ❔

What is the best part of Lucerne to stay in?

The City Center and Old Town is the best part of Lucerne to stay in. It offers historic sights, easy access to restaurants, and beautiful views of the lake.

How many days in Lucerne is enough?

Generally, 2 to 3 days in Lucerne is enough. This allows time to explore the main attractions and take some day trips to nearby areas.

Is it cheaper to stay in Zurich or Lucerne?

Staying in Zurich is typically cheaper than Lucerne. Lucerne is more tourist-oriented, resulting in higher accommodation prices.

Is it better to stay in Lucerne or Interlaken?

It depends on your preferences. Lucerne is better for a picturesque lakeside experience and charming historic sites, while Interlaken is ideal for adventure seekers wanting more outdoor activities and mountain exploration.

What is the difference between Lucerne and Luzern?

There is no difference between Lucerne and Luzern. They refer to the same city, with “Luzern” being the German spelling used locally in Switzerland.