Lake Lucerne Awaits

Bürgenstock Alpine Spa

Perched 1,600 feet above Lake Lucerne, this world-class spa is the definition of luxury. I spent far too long in their infinity pool soaking up the view after my massage. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, I would recommend booking a treatment.

Cycle along the lake

Lake Lucerne’s promenade is about two miles long. I have walked it many times, but one of the best ways to experience it is by bike. I like to stop for a coffee halfway through and enjoy the view. Many hotels in Lucerne offer complimentary bikes for guests, too!

Charter a boat

Spend an afternoon on the lake with a private boat rental. It’s a wonderful way to admire the surrounding mountains, spot the swans, and enjoy a glass of champagne. Many lakeside hotels offer boat rentals, but independent rental companies are also available.

The Chapel Bridge

Everyone who visits Lucerne should cross this bridge, especially since it’s right in the heart of Old Town. For history buffs: It dates back to the 14th century and it has preserved 17th-century paintings that depict the city’s history.

Mount Pilatus

My husband and I traveled by gondola to the top of Mount Pilatus, and it was a breathtaking experience. There is also a cogwheel railway that you can take as well, but I preferred having our own gondola for privacy. Pro tip: Pack some snacks to enjoy during the 40-minute ride.

Mount Titlis

Another incredible mountain excursion, Mount Titlis offers similar views but also has a glacier cave and the exhilarating Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge.

Paragliding

This activity was not for me, but for adventure seekers, you can soar over Lake Lucerne on a tandem paragliding flight.

Restaurant HERMITAGE

This restaurant has a rotating chef residency, so the menu is subject to change! When I went for dinner, I had handmade pasta as well as a fantastic white asparagus soup. Pro tip: Make a dinner reservation for their outdoor patio to watch the sunset. Unlike the chef, the view never changes!

Mamie • Café & Patisserie

The flat whites at this French-inspired café are amazing. Locals will hang out at this café for hours, but they do offer grab-and-go pastries. Pro tip: Get the parmesan eggs Benedict served on a fougasse English muffin. I went back the next day to have it again!

Sunset Bar Luzern

This casual lakeside spot offers cocktails, wood-fired pizza, and delicious bar bites with stunning waterfront views. They are an all-outdoor spot, so make sure the weather is nice. If it is, you can even arrive via boat!

Mill’Feuille

Open all day in the heart of Old Town, this restaurant is perfect for a quick breakfast, latte, or a relaxing lunch. It has a riverside terrace for views and a laid-back atmosphere.

Restaurant focus ATELIER

For a high-end dinner, book a table at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant inside Park Hotel Vitznau. It’s an ideal choice for a special occasion or luxury dining experience. It is a little further away from Old Town Lucerne, but it's easy enough to get to with a private car or even by bus.