Victoria Lupascu 
Located in central Switzerland on the shores of Lake Lucerne, and surrounded by the Swiss Alps and Mount Pilatus, this beautiful town combines my two favorite things, a rich history, and amazing natural spots. Can anyone beat that? I mean, one minute you’re walking around the Reuss River admiring the mountains and the next one you’re admiring Europe’s oldest covered bridge in the Old Town!
Although the city may not be the most affordable place in Switzerland, it’s worth every penny! Lake Lucerne is called the heart of Switzerland because of its central position but not only that, it’s the 4th largest lake in the whole country! But I’m sure now you want to know where to stay in Lucerne, and don’t worry I’ve found some of the best hotels in Lucerne, that range from luxury, to mid-range and of course got some budget options so every pocket will be happy!
Whether you choose hotels near the train station, somewhere near the forest, or a five star hotel, these are all the top options in the city! That’s why you have to hurry and book in advance, Lucerne is a popular destination in central Switzerland, and I’m sure you don’t want to miss all the good deals!
So let’s see what’s up with Lake Lucerne that everyone is talking about!
Contents
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you want to book now, then wait no more, here’s a list of all the best hotels where to stay in Lucerne all located in the Old Town
- Altstadt (Old Town): for first-timers
- Oberseeburg: for families
- Tribschen : for budget
- Bruch: the trendiest place
- Pilatusplatz : for travel connections
- Littau : for nature lovers
1. Altstadt (Old Town) – where to stay in Lucerne for the first time
It’s one thing to stay in a charming old area of a town, filled with historic buildings and unique architecture, but when that place happens to be surrounded by water and spectacular mountain views… Oh!! It’s honestly the perfect spot for me and I’m sure it will be for you too!
Welcome to one of the most romantic areas in Lucerne (or Luzern) where time has stood still for a few centuries, or that’s the impression that the Old Town gives you. You won’t find a better place where to stay in Lucerne than Altstadt, this is the German translation of the words “Old Town”.
Out of all the stunning attractions located in the heart of Lucerne, the main one that you can’t miss is the Kapellbrucke, the city’s famous covered bridge, which is also known as Chapel Bridge. It also happens to be the oldest covered bridge in Europe, measuring 200 meters long and placed across the incredibly blue Reuss River. In summer it is lined with colorful flowers and will seriously give you the best photo opportunities!
Whether you see it during the day or at night, when all the fairy lights are turned on, it will definitely take your breath away! This bridge is one of the top reasons why people look for where to stay in Lucerne near the river.
As I always say, take your time in the historic Old Town, walk around the center of the city and enjoy the lovely atmosphere. Of course, you’ll come across tons of small local shops, restaurants, and other attractions like the Jesuit Church. If you can’t get enough of the hotels and history in Lucerne, Geneva is just a train ride away and it also has some of the best places to stay!
Are you ready to check out the most amazing hotels here? Let’s see!
May I interest you in a spacious room located in the heart of Lucerne, on the Reuss River? Relax with a glass of wine on the balcony of your bedroom and admire the views of the Chapel Bridge. The design of one of the best luxurious hotels in Lucerne is very elegant and it also has a restaurant and a bar.
Other accommodation options in Altstadt (Old Town)
Enjoy your stay in Lucerne in this modern mid-range hotel that offers breakfast and has rooms with city views
Relax on the terrace of this budget Swiss family-friendly hotel that has big rooms, free wifi, and a restaurant
I love the minimalistic design of this bright apartment loft that has two rooms for guests and a kitchen
Things to do in Altstadt (Old Town)
- Walk along the stunning Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Europe
- See some beautiful art at the Sammlung Rosengart Museum
- Admire the architecture of the charming Jesuit Church
- Have fun trying a new sport with Cap Paragliding Switzerland
- Visit all the Lucerne best local sweet shops and souvenir shops
- Spot the historic buildings in Altstadt as you walk along the area
- Check Lucerne’s, Town Hall in the center of the city
2. Oberseeburg – best place to stay in Lucerne for families
Located east of the Old Town, just a 15 minutes bus ride away, this residential area is also known as the “over the lake neighborhood” and it boasts incredible views of the Lucerne River. It’s also the perfect area where to stay in Lucerne with the family thanks to its large palette of hotels, attractions, and activities like the super fun Lido Lucerne, a lakeside park that is perfect for swimming!
You’ll want to book the hotels here in advance, the Lido Lucerne Park makes people stay in this area so the accommodations sell out super fast!
With a sandy beach of 300 meters, umbrellas, and a restaurant with a view of the lake, it will be hard to take the kids away from this family-friendly paradise. There’s a nice playground perfect for any age, but you can also rent SUP boards if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous.
The Lido Lucerne is fairly big so I’m sure families will find plenty of spots, they even have a pool for the little ones. If you’re a family who loves the snow and the mountains have got you in the mood, I highly suggest you check out the ski resorts in Switzerland – St. Moritz and Zermatt offer some breathtaking views!
I’m sure you could easily spend the whole day here, but the Swiss Transport Museum is near the lakeside park if you still have some spare time and want to visit it. Also, don’t forget to walk along the shores of the famous Lake Lucerne as the sun sets over the city!
This luxurious hotel is perfect for your family getaway to Switzerland! Surrounded by mountains and near Lake Lucerne, this waterfront place has a spa center and a restaurant. Have dinner with a view on the terrace and enjoy some peace in the comfort of your modern and spacious room that has a private bathroom.
Other accommodations in Oberseeburg, Lucerne
With the best views of the mountains and surrounded by a golf course, this great hotel has family-friendly rooms and free wifi
One of the best affordable hotels located near Lido Park, that offers a garden terrace, a restaurant, and a bar
What a unique design! I love the rooftop terrace of this place that has a spacious room and offers free parking
Things to do in Oberseeburg, Lucerne
- Swim, play, and have fun at the family-friendly Lido Lucerne lakeside park
- Learn new things at the Swiss Transport Museum
- Visit the Hans Erni Museum in Switzerland
- Take a walk near the shores of Lake Lucerne
- Enjoy a family lakeside dinner at Seehaus Grill
- Take the kids to play in the Hundefreilaufwiese Park
- Offer the kids a great experience with the family-friendly Swiss Adventure Chocolate
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3. Tribschen – where to stay in Lucerne for budget travelers
Located south of the city center, just 2 miles (3 km) away from it, this Swiss district used to be Lucerne’s Red Light District. However, those days are long gone and now Tribschen has replaced its trashy buildings with cute local shops, apartment buildings, and hotels.
It’s one of the best places to stay in Lucerne on a budget as you’ll find a wide range of affordable hotels and hostels. The lakeside area is quite peaceful, making it a great location for those who want to be near Old Town but further away from all the hustle and bustle.
Tribschen is known as the birthplace of Richard Wagner, a famous German composer from the 19th century. So if you’re looking for where to stay in Lucerne in order to dive into the culture of the town, make sure you visit one of the biggest attractions in Tribschen, the villa where the composer used to live. It has now been turned into a museum located near Lake Lucerne!
I can’t say no to a place with ceiling-to-floor windows! What better way to spend your night than looking over the city. This luxury hotel is located near the Lucerne Train Station and offers family rooms. With contemporary touches in its design and a restaurant on-site, this hotel is perfect for your holiday in the city.
Other accommodations options in Tribschen, Lucerne
A lovely beachfront hostel that has a quirky design and offers a common lounge area and a shared kitchen
Enjoy your stay in Lucerne in this affordable B&B that has spacious rooms which come with a private bathroom
Chill on the balcony of this lovely and bright Swiss apartment that has 2 rooms, a kitchen and free wifi
Things to do in Tribschen, Lucerne
- Visit the Richard Wagner Museum and learn new things about Lucerne’s culture
- Have dinner and listen to some live music at Greenhouse Lucerne restaurant at night
- Take the family and go swimming in the lake at Ufschotti Park
- Spend a fun day at the Ice Centre Lucerne in Switzerland
- Eat a delicious burger at N’Ice Restaurant
- Go for a night drink at Peperoncini Tribschen
4. Bruch – trendiest place to stay in Lucerne
Located northeast of the Old Town, this cool neighborhood is home to the most hip bars, cool hotels, and boutique cafes in Lucerne. I’m not lying when I say that I usually hunt for places like Burch when I’m on holiday.
Spending some time in the specialty coffee shops of a new town and browsing all the clothing stores is definitely a must for me. If you feel like this may be your scene, definitely book a hotel in this location.
If you’re looking for where to stay in Lucerne to have some fun after the sun goes down, the Madeleine Bar is the most popular spot in this district and it’s the place where you’ll see a wide range of local people and tourists looking to spend a good time in the city.
Sometimes they even hold comedy shows and concerts! You can pop in there at any time during the week and expect something new. There are also a few attractions here if you want to learn a few new things about the city’s culture, like the Historical Museum Lucerne.
Is there anything better than staying in a castle? This beautiful place boasts one of the best views of the mountains from its lovely terrace. The rooms have an elegant design and a private bathroom with large windows. The hotel is located within walking distance from Chapel Bridge.
Other accommodation options in Bruch, Lucerne
Relax in the outdoor hot tub of this cool hotel and admire the beautiful mountain views with a glass of wine aside
An affordable hotel located in a 1903 building that has family rooms and offers free wifi
Nature lovers will adore this little house surrounded by trees that has a backyard and a kitchen
Things to do in Bruch, Lucerne
- Catch a comedy show at the Madeleine Bar
- Visit the Historical Museum Lucerne in Switzerland
- Spend a fun day shopping at Atelier Treger
- Eat some delicious Swiss food at Restaurant & Bar Drei Koenige
- Go for cocktails at the Bruch Brothers Bar
5. Pilatusplatz – where to stay in Lucerne for travel connections
This neighborhood is perfect if you want to explore the whole town and surrounding areas as it is located near the train station and has several bus stops. At the same time, Pilatusplatz is situated within walking distance from the Old Town in case you want to visit it.
Although there aren’t many attractions in this area, I always think that it’s a good idea to find a place to stay that is more affordable and has all the travel connections you need to see other parts of the city as well, especially if you’re traveling on a budget.
Here you’ll also find a wide range of budget hotels and hostels. As the traffic here is quite intense, you might have to expect a lot of noise but I’m sure that will pay off when you realize how much money you’re saving!
Pilatusplatz is definitely one of the best areas where to stay in Lucerne if you’re a practical traveler who likes to see a lot of attractions, not only inside the town but also in the areas near it! In this case, you could even see Mount Pilatus!
Romantik Hotel Wilden Mann Luzern
Enjoy a glass of Swiss wine on the little terrace of this luxurious hotel that has a restaurant. The rooms have a vintage design, they look straight out of an old movie and they fit the whole family! The hotel has a great central location and offers some nice views.
Other accommodation in Pilatusplatz, Lucerne
Experience a fun stay in Lucerne and book this mid-range hotel that has family rooms and a restaurant
A perfect affordable room for two guests traveling on a budget that offers free wifi and a paid parking spot
Drink your cup of coffee on the little balcony of this central modern apartment that has two rooms
Things to do in Pilatusplatz, Lucerne
- Have a drink at Penthouse Bar in Switzerland
- Go for a walk in the Lucerne Forest
- Take advantage of the good travel connections and explore the region
- Eat a delicious Mexican dinner at Pacifico restaurant
- Take the kids out to play in the Vögeligärtli Park
6. Littau – best place to stay in Lucerne for nature lovers
Can I move here? It looks just like the place for me and I’m sure any person who loves to stay in hotels that are surrounded by nature will want the same! Littau is a small area located west of the Old Town in Lucerne Switzerland.
This area is one of the best places where to stay in Lucerne for anyone who wants to be near the mountains and fresh air! It was not until 2010 that Littau became a part of the city as it is a bit further away, however you can easily reach the Old Town by bus, it’s just a 20-minute ride.
The area is located at the foot of the mountains so imagine the views you’ll get of the beautiful mount Pilatus! Just picture tons of trees everywhere, hills and small forests. If you love being outside and exploring natural spots then the Gütschwald forest, which looks like an enchanted place from a children’s book, is perfect for you. You can take the kids and make a whole fun day out of it!
Let’s see the best hotels in Littau!
I love the wooden elements of this homie and cozy Swiss inn! Have dinner with a view of the mountains from the terrace of this family-friendly hotel. The rooms are quite spacious and they have private bathrooms.
Other accommodation options in Littau, Luzern
Enjoy your stay in Lucerne in this mid-range hotel that has a restaurant, a bar and offers free parking spots
You can’t miss this affordable family-friendly hotel which boasts some of the best views from its terrace
Swim all day in the pool of this place that has an indoor fireplace and a private balcony
Things to do in Littau, Luzern
- Explore this natural area and go hiking
- Catch a sunset and enjoy the views of Mount Pilatus
- Take the kids and organize a picnic in Gütschwald forest
- Climb on a hill and see the best views of Lucerne from above
- Go shopping for local products at Gaby’s Hofboutique
| 👑 Luxury price: | €250 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | €150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €100 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | €180 |
| 💰 Accommodation prices: | High |
| 📍 Best Area: | Altstadt (Old Town) |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hotel des Balances |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Barabas Luzern |
Frequently asked questions about Lucerne
🤔 Is Lucerne worth visiting?
Yes, this beautiful town in Switzerland is worth visiting as it boasts amazing views of Lake Lucerne. It’s also located near Mount Pilatus and has a unique Old Town which is home to the oldest covered bridge in Europe.
💸 Is Lucerne cheaper than Zurich?
Yes, Lucerne is much cheaper than Zurich if you compare travel costs, the prices of the hotels, restaurants and other leisure activities.
⛰️ What is there to do in Lucerne in 2 days?
Visit the Altstadt (Old Town) area, see the Lion of Lucerne, go up Mount Pilatus and admire the architecture of the Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Europe. If you’re looking for where to stay in Lucerne to see it all, check out the Hotel des Balances.
🏨 Where to stay in Old Town Lucerne?
If you’re looking for where to stay in Lucerne in the Old Town then Hotel des Balances and Altstadt Hotel Krone are some of the best hotels in town.
Conclusion
I’m so craving some free time in the forest now! Preferably one in Switzerland that has views of Mount Pilatus! But I’ll settle with the one in my country, but you, my friend, are the lucky one! I hope this article helped you decide where to stay in Lucerne, which affordable Swiss hostel to book or maybe which luxury hotel to indulge in as well as where to go hiking or to ski! I know I’ve got some good ideas!
I know I gave you tons of the best places to stay in Lucerne, Switzerland, most just within walking distance from the main attractions and near the lake, but here are my top two favorite hotels both located in the Old Town:
- Hotel des Balances – A luxury city centre hotel with views of Lake Reuss
- Altstadt Hotel Krone Luzern – A mid-range hotel with the best city views
I know Lucerne, Switzerland looks like a big place but everyone will look for the best places to stay here so make sure you book the hotels in advance especially any of the five-star hotels that everyone raves about! I hope you enjoy exploring the shores of Lake Lucerne, the River Reuss, and eating tons of chocolate near the Old Town!
Don’t forget to leave me a comment if you have any questions about your stay in Lucerne Switzerland, hotels, Mount Pilatus or if you just want to say hi!
Safe Travels,
Victoria
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