Lucerne is one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland, and I don’t think it’s a secret anymore that it has a special place in my heart. Its old town is charming, the city has some of the best fondue in Switzerland, and endless views of mountains in the backdrop of a spectacular lake.
But, where do you go for the absolute best panoramic views in Lucerne? From the observation platforms on the nearby mountain summits to the best panoramic spots tucked away in the city, here’s where you should go for the best views in Lucerne!
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Museggmauer
- Location: Above Lucerne old town
Museggmauer is the wall that borders Lucerne Old Town in the north. This part of the city is at a higher elevation than the quaint alleys right next to the river, and even without the wall, you could experience a panoramic view of downtown Lucerne.
But for the best views you want to be standing on top of the wall. Climb Museggmauer at one of the towers that are still open to the public – Zytturm is the most popular for views, but if you go up at Männliturm, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenic vista longer.
The towers and the wall are accessible free of charge. This is one of the best things to do in Lucerne for free, especially since it’s arguably the best view in the entire town. But don’t let the pretty sights distract you from other attractions in the area! Zytturm is famous for the clock painted on the facade, and it houses an interesting museum dedicated to antique timepieces.
Hotel Château Gütsch
- Location: Kanonenstrasse
Hotel Château Gütsch is another excellent destination for a fabulous view of Lucerne. The hilltop hotel alone is a wonderful sight because it’s set in a 19th-century château. Head to the observation deck just past the hotel, for the best view of Lucerne’s rooftops and the towering mountains in the background.
The best thing about this panoramic destination is that it’s very easy to reach it from the old town. A funicular is available to take you to the hotel at the top of the hill, and the bottom station is just 10 minutes from Spreuer Bridge. A one-way ticket is only 2.5 CHF, and you can ride the funicular for free with a valid travel pass in Lucerne.
Felsberg Park
- Location: Felbsergstrasse
Felsberg Park is just five minutes from the famous Lion Monument, so you can easily visit it during a classic tour of Lucerne’s best landmarks. The park isn’t extremely popular with tourists, meaning that you can enjoy pretty views of the downtown without large crowds.
Walk around the park for a little while, and you’ll be able to find a few spots where you can enjoy a lovely panoramic view between the trees. Because there’s lots of greenery in the park, the views can sometimes be obstructed a bit by the lush treetops. But come here in the winter and it will be an interrupted view of downtown Lucerne’s skyline, with dramatic mountains in the background.
Alpine Park in the Glacier Garden
- Location: Glacier Garden Lucerne
Lucerne Glacier Garden is a special place in the city. It’s an open-air museum dedicated to Lucerne’s glacial history, and the exhibit is utterly fascinating. But the intriguing museum also offers a beautiful view of downtown Lucerne, particularly from its Alpine Park.
The small green oasis lies at the center of the Glacier Garden and it’s best known for the myriad of plants and trees that illustrate the flora of the country throughout the ages. Some of the trees and plants at the park were native to Switzerland more than 20 million years ago. Follow the path through the park and go uphill to the viewing platform.
The Alpine Park also offers a stunning view of downtown Lucerne. See the city’s rooftops with the rocky mountains in the backdrop as an epic conclusion to this wonderful adventure.
Dreilinden Park
- Location: Dreilindenstrasse
Dreilinden Park is a hidden gem in Lucerne and the best place to visit for views if you want to avoid crowds in the city. It’s only about 15 minutes from downtown Lucerne by bus, so a place you can easily visit even if you’re short on time.
Pack a picnic basket to fully enjoy your time at the vast public park. Find a spot that offers a beautiful panoramic view of all the mountains on the shore of Lake Lucerne – it’s the best place for a romantic picnic, and the lovely sights will make the delicious Swiss food taste even better.
In addition to the dramatic vistas, Dreilinden Park is also home to a few interesting statues and buildings that make a walk through the park worthwhile. You’ll notice some intriguing sculptures, but Villa Vicovaro is without a doubt the highlight of the park. The castle-like building will soon open to the public, and we can’t wait to go inside and see all the beautiful artworks that adorn its walls.
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Sonnenberg
- Location: Kriens
Sonnenberg is the summit above Gutsch. Come here for epic views of the lake, but also for walking trails in the forest that allow you to discover wonderful Swiss landscapes. A funicular will take you up the mountain from Kriens and you can start enjoying the pretty panoramas just 5 minutes after you get off the mountain train.
For the absolute best views, you’ll want to explore some of the forest paths. The higher up the mountain you’re able to go the better, but you’ll get a good view of the city, lake, and all the surrounding mountains even from the benches near the funicular station.
One thing to note is that access to Sonnenberg is from Kriens. The town at the foot of the mountain is accessible by train and bus from Lucerne main station; the bus ride is only 10 minutes and it’s free with the Lucerne guest card.
Meggenhorn
- Location: Meggenhornstrasse
Meggenhorn is a short bus ride from downtown Lucerne, or a boat ride if you’re feeling adventurous. The 19th-century castle has its own pier, which is accessible on cruises from Lucerne.
Come here for a guided tour of a castle and its fabulous gardens. Sweeping views of Lake Lucerne stretch from this property, but by far the best is the view of Mount Pilatus. The sight of the snow-covered summit is dramatic, and it’s a rewarding vista even on cloudy days. The mountain peak is sometimes entirely covered by clouds, and I think that just makes the majestic Pilatus appear even more picturesque.
Guided tours of the Meggenhorn castle are available on Sundays, and they’re absolutely worth doing. Panoramic views of Lake Lucerne are awesome but don’t underestimate how astounding it is to look at all the period furnishings and gorgeous art inside the castle.
Lakeside Promenade
Location: Train Station
Some of the best views in Lucerne are of the stunning namesake lake, so a stroll down the lakeside promenade is a must. Start at the train station or even at Schwanenplatz, on the other bank of the river, and just follow the promenade east.
Enjoy the wonderful view of the lake, which stretches as far as the eye can see. The sight of the tall peaks in the backdrop is mesmerizing, and every now and then you’ll see boats pass by. Walk down the promenade as long as you like, past the Lucerne Casino, and even until you reach the beach. It takes only half an hour to reach the Lucerne Lido from the old town. Return is possible by boat, bus, and taxi.
Along The Reuss
- Location: Spreuer Bridge
You don’t have to be at an insane elevation to enjoy a beautiful view in Lucerne. It’s enough to be next to the water, and one of the best views of the Old Town is available from the lower bank of River Reuss.
Start at Spreurbrucke and walk along the river towards the Chapel Bridge. It’s a great way to discover some highlights of Lucerne and enjoy a lovely view of the old town across the river. You’ll see all the waterfront buildings, the old hotels, and the roofs of the taller old town buildings rising above them.
Also, don’t forget to turn your head right every now and then, to catch a glimpse of the sights closer to you. Jesuit Church is a landmark you’ll pass along the way, and it’s a staple of Lucerne’s skyline. The famous church is even more spectacular when you’re standing in front of it, and I say don’t miss out on an opportunity to go inside.
Views Of Lake Lucerne From Mountain Tops
All the places I’ve already told you about offer gorgeous views, but for the most dramatic vistas, you’ll want to go to a mountain summit. Lucky for you, they’re accessible by gondolas and funicular trains, so are easy to reach even for travelers who aren’t that experienced in mountain climbing and hiking.
Lucerne is close to several summits that rise over 1,500 meters. When you’re that high you can have an interrupted view of the lake, with all its different arms and bends. Lucerne city appears tiny from such a tall height, but the sight of the lake and other mountains is out of this world.
The best mountains to visit from Lucerne for views are:
- Pilatus
- Rigi
- Bürgenstock
- Stanserhorn
All are easily accessible by public transport and offer several observation decks, so perfectly suitable for travelers who aren’t versed in conquering mountain paths. And of course, if you’re an experienced hiker and not afraid of a challenge, you can reach even better viewpoints.
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