7 reasons for Lucerne in summer

In Lucerne, summer plays out in the city, on the water and in the mountains. Seven reasons why Lucerne is a must for you to visit in the summer.

×

Bathing fun in the heart of the city

In Lucerne you can enjoy a swim in Lake Lucerne with a superb panorama of the Alps. Take a dip in a bathing area with a view of the Pilatus and the Culture and Convention Centre Lucerne or venture a dive into the refreshing cold water from the diving tower at Lucerne Lido. At Ufschötti park there is not just an almost 200-metre long sandy beach but also a large lawn area where local people enjoy getting together for barbecues and ball games. After a refreshing dip you can drop into one of the nearby summer bars deep to savour an ice cream, a fizzy drink or bite to eat – whether a full meal or just a snack.

Enjoy an ice cream as if you were on the Italian Riviera

Savour a delicious ice cream along the bustling banks of River Reuss or while you take in the superb views offered by the lake promenade. The local parlours will indulge you with home-made ice cream made from regional ingredients – whether chocolate-vanilla in a cone, strawberry with whipped cream or mascarpone-fig. Why not treat yourself?

Summer bars on the waterfront

Is there a better way to round off the day with a cool drink in good company? Grab a few friends, wander down to the lake and enjoy the cool evening vibe at one of the many summer bars on the waterfront.

A cruise on Lake Lucerne

In the hot weather, enjoy the fresh lake air with an outing on Lake Lucerne. You will spectacular natural scenery with imposing mountain panoramas and gaze into the deep blue water. Or perhaps you’d prefer a culinary trip? Enjoy Lake Lucerne on the Brunch Ship, the Burger Boat or the Candlelight Steamer.

The mountains are so close

If it’s too hot for you in the city in spite of the bathing areas and beach bars, why not spend the day in the nearby mountains? Take a trip up from Vitznau up to Rigi Kulm on Europe's first mountain railway. Or experience the steepest cogwheel railway in the world on a ride from Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm. These record-breaking railways take you up the local peaks in no time. Go on a hike or a walk to enjoy the crisp mountain air.

Sunsets

Would you like to round off the evening with a romantic sunset? Whether high up on a mountain peak or on a relaxing boat trip? Watch the sun dip below the horizon as the Lake Lucerne Region is bathed in orange and red light.

Sights in summer splendour

Lucerne’s cityscape is defined by the Chapel Bridge, Water Tower, Jesuit Church, Musegg Wall, Culture and Convention Centre Lucerne and many other buildings. Take a tour of the city and listen to the tales behind these historic edifices – this will give you a whole new perspective on the city of Lucerne. Tours are offered on a daily basis for the general public in German and English from 9.45 am to 11.45 am.

Discover more

Highlights

Highlights

Discover now

Things to do