Stroll through the charming Old Town of Lucern where you can marvel at the beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Make sure to visit St. Peter's Chapel, one of the oldest churches in Switzerland. You can also find local shops and cafes to try traditional Swiss treats.
Take the train from Lucern to Rigi Kulm and enjoy panoramic views of the Alps on your ascent to Mount Rigi. There, you can hike to Rigi Scheidegg and enjoy the scenery. In the afternoon, catch a boat from Rigi Kulm to Lucerne and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Start the day by visiting the poignant Lion Monument, which was built in honor of the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. Afterward, head to the Swiss Transport Museum to learn about the history of transportation in Switzerland. You can explore trains, planes, and automobiles, and even take a virtual reality train ride through the Swiss Alps.
Take the train and a bus to Alpnachstad to access the steepest cogwheel railway in the world up to Mount Pilatus. From there, take the Stanserhorn CabriO cable car and enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. If you have time, visit the Pilatus Rope Park for an exciting outdoor adventure.
To get around Lucern, consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, which will give you unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats, as well as free admission to over 500 museums in Switzerland. A 4-day pass starts at 259 CHF. The travel time between destinations is included in each day’s itinerary, but always allow for extra time in case of delays.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to nearby towns such as Interlaken or Engelberg. If you have less time, skip Mount Pilatus and/or Stanserhorn CabriO and spend more time exploring Lucerne. Make sure to try Swiss fondue, raclette, or Rösti (a Swiss potato dish) at a local restaurant.
The nearest airport to Lucerne is Zurich Airport (ZRH), which is located approximately 65 km from Lucerne city center. You can take a train or bus to Lucerne directly from Zurich Airport, and the journey takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a taxi for about 200 CHF.