Lucerne Tourist Attractions, Landmarks, Monuments and Sightseeing

(Lucerne, Switzerland)

A large number of the most prominent landmarks and historical tourist attractions are located in Old Town Lucerne, on the northerly side of the Reuss River. If you take a stroll around the Old Town district it won't be long until you encounter a number of half-timbered buildings, houses and similar attractions, many of which are based around the public squares, or are tucked away within its winding labyrinth of streets and alleyways.

Whilst walking around, tourists should look out for the fascinating medieval remains of the city walls, which stand on a hill and still feature nine original watchtowers, adding a definite character to the area. However, it is the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) that is the main tourist attraction and most famous landmark in Lucerne, and always features heavily on postcards, in guidebooks and on most promotional literature for this part of Switzerland.

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

An iconic structure widely associated with the Swiss city of Lucerne, the Chapel Bridge is perhaps better known locally as the Kapellbrücke. This attraction really is a must-see for everyone and straddles the Reuss River, stretching for just over 200 metres / 656 feet and is built entirely from wood. The Chapel Bridge itself is covered with a small, characterful gabled roof and was built in 1333, making it Europe's most historic wooden bridge. Sadly much of the bridge was damaged by fire in 1993 and has since been fully restored to its former glory. The main attractions include an octagonal water tower, along with a number of paintings dating from the 17th century, simply painted directly on the triangular spaces between the wooden gables.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Mill Bridge / Spreuer Bridge (Spreuerbrücke)

Although by no means as impressive as the Kapellbrücke, Lucerne's zigzagging Spreuerbrücke still has plenty to offer tourists and its original structure dates from 1408 and remains fully intact. The Spreuer Bridge is also referred to as the Mill Bridge and is decorated with a series of imaginative paintings by the artist Caspar Meglinger, entitled as the 'Dance of Death'. Apart from the views and the paintings, the central chapel is amongst the main attractions and was added to this historic bridge in the middle of the 16th century.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Cathedral of St. Leodegar / Leger (Hofchile)

The medieval Cathedral of St. Leodegar stands proudly atop a small hill, alongside Lake Lucerne. This landmark has a long and chequered history, being originally built around the early part of the 8th century. However, the structure present today dates from the 1630s and features attractive late Renaissance architecture, with many period details and attractions.

The towers surviving from before the remodelling offer a glimpse of its original appearance. Inside, the attractions are plentiful and the elaborate carvings and decor are worth looking out for, while outside, the twin towers dominate the overall structure.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free, donations suggested

Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal)

Address: Denkmalstrasse, Lucerne, Switzerland, CH
The Lucerne Lion Monument is one of the most famous of the city's landmarks and acclaimed attractions, and is dedicated to the many soldiers of Switzerland who died during the tragic French revolution of 1792. This highly detailed carved lion is always surrounded by crowds and was once described by none other than Mark Twain as being the 'world's saddest and most moving piece of rock'. The Löwendenkmal can be found within a small parkland, next to the Lowenplatz.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Mount Pilatus / Cogwheel Railway

To enjoy some spectacular views and an exciting ride, head to the cogwheel railway at Alpnachstad, on the very outskirts of Lucerne, and enjoy the ride up Mount Pilatus. This is actually the steepest railway of its kind in existence, so expect some truly panoramic vistas across the Alps. Other attractions include year-round cable car rides from Kriens, many scenic picnic spots and endless photo opportunities.
Open hours: daily, seasonal variations, cogwheel railway does not operate during the winter months
Admission: charge, discounts for children