Breathtaking panoramic views, iconic landmarks, traditional as well as contemporary art. Lucerne, in the very heart of Switzerland, has it all. Pack your camera (or make sure to have your smartphone on hand at all times!) as the many impressions are sure to unleash your creativity! The Lake Lucerne area is quite diverse, and you'll want to immortalize those moments. Whether you stroll through the old town or take a day trip up the mountains, the photo-friendly spots abound. Happy exploring - and snapping!
Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge)
The Chapel Bridge and its water tower are probably the most illustrious landmarks in Lucerne. Originally built in the 14th century, it is the oldest wooden covered footbridge in Europe. The interior displays several paintings that were added in the 17th century. In 1993 a fire partially destroyed the bridge, but after its restauration the Chapel Bridge has remained a major tourist attraction. Especially in the spring and summer time, it is colorfully embellished with flowers: a beautiful photo catch. On one end of the Chapel Bridge you will find St. Peter’s Chapel. Though not very well-known and often overlooked, it truly is a small jewel not to be missed. Fascinated? Check out our Chapel Bridge blogpost for more photos and historical facts.
Inseli
Early birds should go visit the Inseli (‘Little Island’). Shoot pictures of the astonishing sunrise or watch the typically Swiss passenger ships pass by while enjoying the morning piece and quiet. This small park is within a stone’s throw of the Radisson Blu Hotel Lucerne.
Ufschötti
Fancy a refreshing jump in the lake during your stay in Lucerne? Ufschötti is the city’s one-of-a-kind sand beach and offers a free of charge view on the Swiss Alps.
Lake Tour
A boat trip on the lake is almost obligatory when in Lucerne. Tours vary from 1 to 6 hours and let you experience the beauty of the region of Central Switzerland. At a walking distance from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne (5-10 minutes, depending on the pier number), you can board the traditional paddle steamers.
Railway Station
Right across the street from the piers the façade of Lucerne’s main railway station will impress you. Try different angles to highlight the architecture or some close-ups of the statues atop the entrance arcade.
Psst! Traveling with the kids? Check out these top family activities to do in Lucerne.
Lion Monument
The famous Lion Monument, a rock-cut relief and an impressive work of art, portrays a mortally-wounded lion to commemorate the 1792 massacre of the Swiss Guards during the French Revolution. A 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne.
Lucerne Culture and Congress Center
One of the most well-known and iconic buildings in Lucerne is the KKL (Lucerne Culture and Congress Center) at the lakefront on Europe Square. Discover how the modern architecture is an interplay of water and light, providing several photo opportunities. All year long, the concert hall, with its top-class acoustics, offers a large variety of (classical) events. Especially the Lucerne Festival Series attract renowned performers as well as guests from all over the world.
Jesuitenkirche
From the central station, take a 10-minute walk alongside the river Reuss to reach the Jesuitenkirche. Switzerland’s first sacral baroque-style church dates back to 1666/1667. This historical monument is an architectural masterpiece. Unlike many other churches, the Jesuitenkirche has a very bright interior, thanks to the use of large windows and light colors. If you are not there to attend a classical concert, get your camera out!
Mount Rigi
Go explore Mount Rigi – Queen of the Mountains. From Küssnacht you can reach the top via an aerial cable car; the cities of Vitznau and Arth-Goldau provide access via rack-and-pinion railways. Thrilling views await you with Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug on one side, the snow-capped Swiss Alps on the other. Apart from nature’s beauty, your camera might catch a paraglider or two.
Museggmauer City Wall
Take a journey back in time. The Museggmauer, the medieval city wall, is characterized by its 9 towers in which various materials like wood, petrol and gunpowder used to be stored. Moreover, the Museggmauer offers a beautiful view down onto the city of Lucerne. Did you know that the meeting rooms of the Radisson Blu Hotel Lucerne carry the name of these 9 towers?
Pilatus
A must-see and worth an entire day trip: one of the most legendary places in Central Switzerland is Pilatus. On a clear day, Lucerne’s very own mountain (owing its name to the Roman governor Pontius Pilatus, who is said to have been buried here) offers a spectacular 360-degree view of 73 alpine peaks. Be ready to take one picture after the other! From Alpnachstad, the mountain can be reached by the world’s steepest rack-railroad, a trip which is an attraction on its own. Or from Kriens, either take the gondola lift or the Dragon Ride (aerial cable car). Even if heavy fogs cover the lowlands, an impressive panorama awaits you as soon as you break through and arrive at the sun-embraced peak.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne
Whether you are on a mission to complete yet another photo album or just keen to get to know the city of Lucerne and its surroundings, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne is the perfect starting point for your discoveries. Many of the sightseeing tips are within walking distance from the hotel: Inseli is just across the street, KKL/Europe Square and Ufschötti are only 5-10 minutes away, the Chapel Bridge and the Jesuitenkirche can be reached within 15 minutes – if you don’t get distracted by other views on the way. And it is only a 10 to 15-minute walk to both the central railway station and the piers, from where either trains or ships take you on a discovery daytrip. And a hearty, delectable meal at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant LUCE with open show kitchen is guaranteed to be the perfect closure of a long day full of (photo) impressions.
