Lucerne is a city situated in the centre of Switzerland, located along the shores of the beautiful Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of the Swiss Alps. When choosing where to stay in Lucerne you will discover an array of choices that will immerse you in to its natural beauty, grand history and vibrant culture. With so much to do, such as wandering through the charming old town, hiking across the gorgeous mountain ranges, and exploring through their world class museums, you will want to know where to stay in Lucerne for an unforgettable getaway.
WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND
Booking your vacation to this fantastic city is going to provide you with endless amounts of outdoor activities, picturesque settings and a friendly environment. There are several areas for where to stay in Lucerne, with five being the most well known for providing an array of accommodation to suit several kinds of travellers. Whether this may be a solo trip, family vacation, group getaway, or romantic long weekend. This article is going to share with you luxury properties, family-friendly hotels, self catering accommodation and budget friendly places, which is going to help you when choosing where to stay in Lucerne.
My favourite properties when deciding where to stay in Lucerne are Hotel Schweizerhof Lucerne for its location directly on Lake Lucerne and their fabulous spa facilities, alongside Hotel Astoria for its rooftop beach club terrace and breathtaking views overlooking the lake.
QUICK PICKS: WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND, TOP CHOICES
With so many impeccable properties to choose between when finding where to stay in Lucerne, you may not have the time right now to read through this entire article. However, that’s no problem because here I have hand picked the top spots for where to stay in Lucerne.
ACCOMMODATION COMPARRISON TABLE
Below you will see a list of prices per night for two people at each property. This is to help you further decide where to stay in Lucerne. When booking your accommodation, please note that these costs may change dependent on two factors, the time of year you choose to book your vacation for, and the period you decide to book with as there may be different offers on.
WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE: OLD TOWN
The Old Town in Lucerne, also known as Altstadt, is located within the heart of the city. Providing an array of history, authentic culture, natural beauty and a charming atmosphere, this is a great area to check out when choosing where to stay in Lucerne. You will be situated in a prime spot to check out all the surrounding attractions as well as nearby landmarks, the breathtaking Lake Lucerne is within walking distance, and you will discover an array of boutique shopping alongside traditional cuisine. This really is a fabulous place when deciding where to stay in Lucerne.
Hotel Schweizerhof Lucerne
Here we have a lavish property located directly on the famous Lake Lucerne. Hotel Schweizerhof is well known for providing impeccable hospitality. Boasting a 5-star rating, you are going to be in awe with this accommodation from the moment you walk in. The interior décor is grand, upscale and unique. If you decide on this property as where to stay in Lucerne, you will be in good company as many high-end people have also stayed here when visiting the city, such as Kings, politicians, musicians and writers.
Hotel Schweizerhof provides mesmerising views overlooking the stunning Lake Lucerne. Its located puts you in walking distance of several top attractions like the Chapel Bridge, Musegg Wall and Lion Monument. It is hosts one of the top even programs in the city, meaning you can enjoy live music, concerts and festivals when you pick this for where to stay in Lucerne. Bonuses of this hotel are fabulous their spa and wellness area, well-equipped fitness centre, and an exquisite restaurant and bar.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Hotel Schweizerhof Lucerne.
Art Deco Hotel Montana Lucerne
Located overlooking the breathtaking lake, and offering a great property for where to stay in Lucerne. Art Deco Hotel Montana is situated not far from Lido Beach, provides complimentary bikes to explore around the area and has a 24-hour reception to assist with anything you may need. The interior décor of this hotel is stylish, bright and Instagrammable. Each room is equipped with high-tech amenities, contemporary furnishings and gorgeous views of the surrounding areas, with some evening having private hot tubs.
Art Deco Hotel Montana has a brilliant rooftop terrace with a bar and Mediterranean design. Their in-house restaurant is an impressive spot to dine. From exquisite cuisine to fabulous views, you are going to be wowed when visiting. There are a handful of bars and lounge areas located throughout the property, and some highlights of their hospitality include their Kitchen Club experience and Winter Grill. Additional benefits to choose this accommodation as your spot where to stay in Lucerne are the airport shuffle, surrounding activities within the area and child care services.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Art Deco Hotel Montana Lucerne.
Renaissance Lucerne Hotel
Boasting a 5-star rating and oozing with luxurious style, Renaissance Lucerne Hotel is an upscale accommodation sitting in the centre of the Old Town. You will be taken back through time with the historic infrastructure of this property whilst getting to indulge in lavish décor, fabulous amenities and contemporary furnishings. You are going to be surrounded by fantastic attractions, as well as being in a prime spot for hiking or skiing, depending on the time of year you choose to book.
Renaissance Lucerne Hotel features a fitness centre, concierge services and bicycle or car rentals. When it comes to dining, you can start your day with a delicious continental buffet breakfast, and then enjoy your other meals at their in-house restaurant which serves up mouth watering Mexican dishes. If you fancy checking out spots outside of the hotel, steps away are a variety of excellent eateries. Moments away from the property is the train station which makes this a very accessible hotel for where to stay in Lucerne.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Renaissance Lucerne Hotel.
The Hotel Lucerne, Autograph Collection
As part of the Marriott Autograph Collection, The Hotel Lucerne is a uniquely styled accommodation designed by the well known Parisian architect Jean Nouvel. This property sits neighbouring a beautiful park and moments away from Lake Lucerne. Each spacious room features a lounge area, great amenities, and some even have private terraces offering gorgeous views overlooking the city. Additional benefits for choosing this hotel for where to stay in Lucerne are their concierge services, close proximity to the train station and large windows to soak up the surrounding landscape.
The Hotel Lucerne offers a tour desk to assist you in planning any trips you may want to book, a 24-hour reception may you have any enquiries, and boasts a 5-star rating. You will be able to start your day right with their buffet breakfast that is going to set you up ready for a full day of exploring throughout the city. The location of this hotel is ideal when deciding where to stay in Lucerne for those you want to take a look at the most popular attractions as well as be within walking distance of the city centre, shopping boutiques and fantastic eateries.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at The Hotel Lucerne.
Grand Hotel National Lucerne
Oozing with elegant design, luxurious décor and royalty level hospitality, Grand Hotel is a unique accommodation sitting in Old Town. If you are looking for an upscale property that is going to serve up a one-of-a-kind vacation, then this is where to stay in Lucerne. All rooms feature high end amenities, lavish furnishing and some even provide a private balcony.
Grand Hotel features an impressive four restaurants where you can indulge in delicious cuisine, a bar area, and outside terrace. You have access to a personalised concierge service, indoor swimming pool and spa centre. There are complimentary bikes for you to use to explore around the area, as well as being in close proximity to hiking trails. Added benefits of choosing here for where to stay in Lucerne are there 24-hour reception, business facilities and currency exchange service.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Grand Hotel National Lucerne.
Hotel Astoria
This award-winning and affordable accommodation sits in the centre of Old Town. Hotel Astoria is an urban property with quirky design and stylish furnishings. You will be situated moments away from the train station, making it very accessible to get to other areas of Lucerne and Switzerland. There are also well known landmarks located within walking distance of the hotel. Choosing here for where to stay in Lucerne will provide you with an idyllic spot, modern facilities and great hospitality.
Hotel Astoria is proud to boast three exquisite restaurants that serve up culinary delights, a fantastic roof top terrace with gorgeous views overlooking the city, and an in-house coffee shop. There is a fitness centre within the property, a car parking garage and conference rooms, meaning it is a great hotel for leisure and business. Lake Lucerne sits steps away from the accommodation, giving you the best of both worlds. A vibrant city stay, with the beautiful surrounding tranquil landscape.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Hotel Astoria.
Hotel Hofgarten Luzern
Providing family rooms, and a location on the outskirts of the Old Town, Hotel Hofgarten is a petite boutique hotel filled with a unique interior. You will have access to a private garden, beautiful outside terrace area and be withing walking distance of the city centre, as well as other well known attractions. The hotel is spread across three historically listed buildings, featuring 19 individually decorated rooms.
Hotel Hofgarten hosts a restaurant creating dishes with ingredients fresh from the local markets, and full of traditional flavours. The surrounding area is popular for cycling, which is a great activity to get involved in, as well as there being table tennis at the hotel to play. Bonuses of booking your vacation at this property are their room service, buffet breakfast each morning, and in-house business centre.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Hotel Hofgarten Luzern.
Barabas Luzern
For those travelling solo or looking for budget friendly accommodation within the Old Town, this is where to stay in Lucerne. Barabas Luzern has a quirky concept as it was a former prison that has been renovated with vibrant colours, great spaces and modern furnishings. The location of this hostel provides you with close proximity to an array of restaurants, attractions and Lake Lucerne.
Barabas Luzern features a tour desk to help you with any questions or queries, a luggage storage area and free WIFI. Within the property you will find a shared lounge, lovely outside terrace space and some rooms even host kitchen facilities. On the ground floor of the accommodation is a fantastic Japanese restaurant that serves up delicious bento boxes, lunch time meals and smaller dishes. An added bonus of staying here includes their billiards table.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Barabas Luzern.
Bastis City Rooms
If you are searching for an affordable self-catering accommodation, Bastis City Rooms could be the property you decide on for where to stay in Lucerne. Within walking distance of the centre of Old Town, this cosy accommodation provides bright décor, a fully equipped kitchen and modern furnishings. You will be in a location in close proximity to fantastic attractions, many eateries and great shopping boutiques. The train station is also situated nearby.
Bastis City Rooms provides you with a dining area, seated lounge and bathroom. Within the property is a minimarket, where you can grab quick snacks and some ingredients for dinner. There is great WIFI within the property which makes it a good spot for those who need to work whilst travelling. Added benefits include housekeeping, assistance with planning days out, and pets are also allowed.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Bastis City Rooms.
WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE: SEEBURG
Staying in Seeburg is going to provide you with a serene and picturesque vacation along the shores of Lake Lucerne, with stunning overlooking surrounding Swiss Alps landscape. This area offers a peaceful escape away from the busy city giving you the perfect spot to unwind. If you are looking for where to stay in Lucerne to soak up the natural beauty of Switzerland. It is still in close proximity to the main attractions and landmarks whilst giving you tranquil environment. You can also get involved in an array of both on land and in water sports such as hiking, cycling, canoeing and sailing. Here are some great options of where to stay in Lucerne within the Seeberg area.
Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne
Offering a 5-star property, Mandarin Oriental Palace is where to stay in Lucerne if you are looking for a luxurious hotel within the breathtaking area of Seeburg. You are going to be treated like royalty with their personalised concierge service, 24-hour reception and in-room dining. You will be graced with a fantastic view of the Swiss alps which this property sitting directly on Lake Lucerne. This accommodation is also award-winning with Forbes Travel Guide 2024.
Mandarin Oriental Palace features a fabulous spa and wellness area perfect for moments of relaxation and rejuvenation. You will be in close proximity of Lido Beach and other monumental landmarks. When it comes to being wined and dined, you will be able to enjoy eating at their impeccable four in-house restaurants which provide an array of delicious cuisine and an added bonus of afternoon tea. More benefits of choosing here for where to stay in Lucerne are their around the clock fitness centre, airport shuttle and sun terrace area.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne.
HERMITAGE Lake Lucerne – Beach Club & Lifestyle Hotel
Sitting on the lake front, with a perfect grass area filled with loungers to soak up the sun, here is a fantastic spot for where to stay in Lucerne is you want to have a relaxing getaway. HERMITAGE Lake Lucerne is designed for those looking to have an upscale vacation filled with luxurious amenities and services. You will have access to complimentary bikes for exploring around the area, a great fitness centre for early morning workouts and a spa area to enjoy some rejuvenating treatments.
HERMITAGE Lake Lucerne hosts two in-house restaurants to indulge in delicious dishes, and you can start the day right with a freshly prepared buffet breakfast. You can choose a room at the hotel with a balcony to admire the breathtaking glistening lake, with each featuring a seating area, coffee machine and flat screen TV. Added benefits of deciding this property as where to stay in Lucerne include on-site water sports equipment, close proximity to hiking trails and tennis court.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at HERMITAGE Lake Lucerne – Beach Club & Lifestyle Hotel.
HERMITAGE Lake Lucerne – Beach Club & Lifestyle Hotel
- Lakefront location
- On-site water sports
- Spa and wellness area
Gasthaus Badhof – Golfhotel
Well known for its grand golfing area that offers both 6 and 9 hole course, this luxury property serves up breathtaking views, upscale furnishings and trendy décor. Gasthaus Badhof features a beautiful garden, fabulous outdoor terrace area and 14 lavish suites. This is a brilliant property for where to stay in Lucerne on your vacation if you are looking for a serene environment, a close proximity to hiking trails and high-end amentities.
Gasthaus Badhof provides a freshly prepared buffet breakfast each morning alongside having an impeccable restaurant where you can enjoy being wined and dined. All rooms at this hotel boast private balconies that offer exquisite views of the mountain range, lake and gardens. There is also an on-site bar area for you to indulge in a relaxing beverage after a busy day exploring.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Gasthaus Badhof – Golfhotel.
Hotel Seeburg
Hosting a chic, elegant and contemporary interior design, Hotel Seeburg is an upscale yet family-friendly hotel featuring fantastic facilities for a memorable vacation. When looking for where to stay in Lucerne along the shores of the lake, here is a great choice. Its low cost with luxury amenities such as stylish rooms, stunning views and beautiful garden make it a wonderful choice of accommodation.
Hotel Seeburg boasts an exquisite restaurant with a fabulous setting, and a bar area which is the perfect place to have a drink whilst watching the sun go down. There is a lovely outdoor terrace area, private parking and exclusive balconies on some of the rooms. The location of this property puts you in close proximity to surrounding landmarks, and an added bonus is that you get complimentary use of public transport with a certain area.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Hotel Seeburg.
Backpackers Lucerne
When it comes to affordable accommodation in Seeburg, Backpackers Lucerne is where to stay in Lucerne. Located along the shores of the beautiful lake within a quiet environment, this property is perfect for solo or budget travellers. Its interior is funky, vibrant and quirky, showing off the character to the hostel. You will be staying within walking distance of the main station and steps away from the glistening water and breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
Backpackers Lucerne features a shared kitchen and lounge area, as well as providing free WIFI and table football. This is a great place for where to stay in Lucerne if you are looking to meet other likeminded travellers, have a picturesque location, and cosy accommodation. There are both shared and private rooms, with all have their own balconies. Additional services you have access are their laundry service, books and games.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Backpackers Lucerne.
Queen Home
With a well-equipped kitchen, lounge area, and a bedroom, this is a great self catering accommodation sitting nearby to the Lake. Queen Home is an ideal property for those looking to have a private vacation at an affordable cost. The design of this accommodation is simple but elegant. You are going to be situated within walking distance of Lake Lucerne, as well as being able to have easy access to other surrounding activities.
Queen Home has everything you will need for a comfortable stay. The balcony will provide you with gorgeous views overlooking the glistening water and you will also have access to a private garden plus parking. At the property there is the opportunity to hire a car which will give you the freedom to explore throughout the surrounding areas. This could be the place for your of where to stay in Lucerne if you are looking for a quiet spot around the lake.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Queen Home.
WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE: OTHER AREAS
When discovering where to stay in Lucerne there are many areas you can find exceptional accommodation within. This city is a stunning hidden gem of Switzerland, and with its location around the gorgeous Lake Lucerne you will be spoiled for choice on your vacation. Alongside the Old Town and Seeburg, which are two fantastic areas to book your getaway at, others great places where to stay in Lucerne include Trischben, Kriens and Littau. Here are some great properties that they host.
Boutique Hotel Himmelrich
Sitting above Kriens within the nature is Boutique Hotel Himmelrich. Here we have a property ideal for where to stay in Lucerne for those looking to have a serene vacation, whilst also being in close proximity of the main city, lake and major attractions. The interior of this property is luxurious, with its exterior being quite traditional. Each room offers a private balcony with mountain views, upscale furnishings and a flat screen TV.
Boutique Hotel Himmelrich boasts a fabulous spa and wellness area perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating moments. Outside you will discover a children’s playground and the surrounding areas being great for cycling. The staff at this hotel provide a welcoming attitude and are on hand to assist with anything you may need. You can wine and dine at their in-house restaurant as well as grab a drink in the bar area. Bonuses of choosing here as where to stay in Lucerne include the tranquil environment of Pilatus Mountain, complimentary parking and room service.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Boutique Hotel Himmelrich.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne
Situated within Trischben you will find the vibrant Radisson Blu. This hotel has a colourful, bright and funky interior design with modern furnishings and a playful atmosphere. There is a 24-hour front desk to help you play your days with fun activities and also answer any queries you may have. All rooms feature a desk, complimentary toiletries and some even boast a private terrace area.
Radisson Blu is in a location that is well known for cycling, in close proximity of public transport and nearby to great landmarks. You can hire a car from the property which will give you more access to exploring further afield. On-site you can enjoy a fitness centre, restaurant and bar area. Added benefits of choosing here as where to stay in Lucerne include their room service robots, parking and WIFI.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Radisson Blu.
Holiday Inn Express – Lucerne – Kriens, an IHG Hotel
Whether travelling for business, pleasure, or a short stop over, Holiday Inn Express could be ideal for where to stay in Lucerne on your trip due to its close proximity to main roads and public transport. Situated in Kriens, this property is great for families, solo travellers and pets. All rooms are have modern furnishings and great amenities to ensure that you have a comfortable stay.
Holiday Inn Express offers an on-site restaurant, a continental buffet breakfast and bar area. There is daily housekeeping, private parking and a dry cleaning service. Located not too far from the hotel you will find a golf course that features 18 holes and also children activities are nearby.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Holiday Inn Express – Lucerne – Kriens, an IHG Hotel.
Holiday Inn Express – Lucerne – Kriens, an IHG Hotel
- Great for business or leisure
- Nearby an 18-hole golf course
- Close to public transport
Anstatthotel Lucerne – self-check-in
Sitting in Littau, Anstatthotel Lucerne offers self-catering accommodation, making it a great choice for where to stay in Lucerne when looking to enjoy a more home-away-from-home vacation. You will be able to enjoy views of the Pilatus Mountain whilst sipping on your morning coffee from the comfort of a private terrace. The property is family-friendly as well as pet-friendly making it accessible for an array of travellers.
Anstatthotel Lucerne boasts a well-equipped kitchen, comfortable bedroom and also a seating area. Within the accommodation you will have WIFI, a TV and safety deposit box. There is parking available for those who have driven, however public transport stations are located not too far away. When choosing here as where to stay in Lucerne, you are going to enjoy a great getaway.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Anstatthotel Lucerne – self-check-in.
Bellpark Hostel
Ideal for solo travellers who are looking for where to stay in Lucerne on a budget, then Bellpark Hostel could be the sport for you. Situated in Kriens 3km away from the train station, this affordable hostel offers both private and shared rooms in an area that is great for hiking. Staying here provides you with free public transport tickets, a fully equipped shared kitchen and parking spaces.
Bellpark Hostel offers a continental breakfast each morning, setting you up ready for a day of exploring. There is a shared lounge area with gaming amenities and you are going to be located just a short 10 minute walk for the lift up Pilatus Mountain. This is a great property for where to stay in Lucerne if you are looking for like minded travellers.
Click here to check out the current rates and availability at Bellpark Hostel.
TOP MUST-DO ACTIVITIES IN LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND
Now that we have covered where to stay in Lucerne, lets dive into details around the top activities you will want to add to your vacation bucket list. The city provides a diverse range of fun things to do both on water and in land. There is so much to do for city breaks, nature lovers and cultural experiences. Here are the top 5 must-do activities in Lucerne.
Visit Mount Pilatus
You can reach the summit of this impressive mountain by taking the world’s steepest cogwheel railway or their cable car commute. At the top you are going to be in awe of the impressive panoramic views overlooking the surrounding areas. You will also discover restaurants, hiking trails and the dragon ride.
Explore the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower
Here we have an iconic bridge that is one of the oldest in Europe, and a landmark symbol of Lucerne. You will definitely want to make sure your walk across the famous feature of the city, as well as check out the water tower and soak up the beautiful views of the Reuss River.
Go on a boat cruise across Lake Lucerne
It wouldn’t be a trip done right to Lucerne without spending some time out on the stunning lake. One way to make that happen is by going on a boat cruise. It provides you with a relaxing way of admiring the surrounding landscape, watching the sunset and viewing the mountains.
Check out the Lion Monument
This is a sculpture that has been carved into a sandstone rock face. It commemorates the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution and is a big part of the country’s history. This landmark is situated in a beautiful park and is the perfect spot to learn more about Switzerland as well as take some time to enjoy the peaceful environment.
Wander through the Old Town
Providing a charming atmosphere, you can walk along the cobbled streets whilst admiring the historical buildings, learning more about the Swizz culture and shopping in boutique stores. There are museums, medieval architecture and local markets to explore through too.
HOW TO GET TO LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND
Having had a look at where to stay in Lucerne, alongside discovering the top activities you are going to want to check out, you now need to understand how to get there for your vacation. The nearest airport located to this city is Zurich Airport. This is approximately 70 km away from Lucerne and hosts an array of international flights. If you are looking to commute from within Switzerland or from surrounding countries, another way to make the trip is by train. There are several services that arrive in Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Bern. From here you can then either hire a car to travel to Lucerne or take a direct train or bus from the major cities.
Once you have arrived in Lucerne, you can then easily commute around the city by foot which is the cheapest way, take public transport which include several bus services and train lines, or by car which can be hired once in the city unless you have drove here for your vacation already. Other ways to get around Lucerne are by bicycle, boat or taxi.
And there you have it, the complete accommodation for where to stay in Lucerne, Switzerland. Once you have decided on which accommodation you are going to book for your Swiss vacation, it’s then time to start planning your trip even more. Here are a few other guides you may want to check out to help Renting A Car In Switzerland & Tips For Driving In Switzerland, 50 Best Hikes In Switzerland: The Switzerland Hiking Guide and Backpacking in Switzerland On A Budget: Ultimate Guide.