How to Plan Your Lucerne City Tour from Zurich

Switzerland is world-renowned for its spectacular and idyllic landscapes and metropolitan cities. If you’re planning your trip to the country and looking to explore the beautiful city of Lucerne, we have you covered. This full-day city tour from Zurich will take you on a journey through some of the most iconic landmarks of Lucerne’s charming Old Town. So, let’s get started on planning your Lucerne city tour.

Tour Overview

This guided full-day tour of Lucerne from Zurich is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful city. The itinerary for the tour includes a drive over Albis Pass, visit to the famous Lion Monument, free time to explore Lucerne’s Old Town, a stop at historic Chapel Bridge and an opportunity to take a boat ride or visit the Picasso Museum.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour is Best of Switzerland Tours AG, situated at Sihlquai Coach Parking Limmatstrasse 4, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland. You can get there easily by public transport or taxi. Please note that the tour does not include hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Tour Itinerary

1. Departure from Zurich

The tour starts at the meeting point in Zurich where you’ll board a comfortable air-conditioned coach that will take you to the city of Lucerne.

2. Drive over Albis Pass

As you leave Zurich, the coach will take you over the stunning Albis Pass, offering picturesque views of Switzerland’s mountainous terrain. This is a great opportunity to snap some memorable photographs!

3. Stop at the Lion Monument

One of the most iconic landmarks of Lucerne is the Lion Monument. The sculpture depicts a dying lion, which was designed in memory of the heroic Swiss soldiers who died during the French Revolution.

4. Explore Lucerne’s Old Town

Next up is the Old Town of Lucerne. Here you’ll have some free time to find lunch and explore the city’s narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colorful Renaissance architecture, boutiques, and shops. You can opt to visit the city’s art galleries, boutiques, or Musegg Wall, some of the landmark historical spots in Lucerne.

5. Chapel Bridge

The Chapel Bridge is a historical wooden structure and one of the most photographed landmarks in Lucerne. A symbolic and historical architectural bridge, the Chapel Bridge was built in the 14th century as a fortified guard tower to protect the city.

6. Take a Boat Ride or Visit the Picasso Museum

Finally, the tour ends with the option to take a boat ride across Lake Lucerne, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakesides. Alternatively, you can visit the Picasso Museum, which showcases the works of Pablo Picasso, the legendary Spanish painter, and sculptor.

What’s Included

The tour includes free carbon-balanced operations certified by MyClimate, transportation in a comfortable coach with AC, and a professional multilingual guide, who will assist you throughout the tour.

What’s Not Included

Please note that the tour excludes hotel pick-up and drop-off and food and drinks. However, there will be enough time to buy lunch in Lucerne’s Old Town.

Booking Your Lucerne City Tour

Booking your Lucerne city tour is straightforward. You can book your tour here at the official website of the tour provider, Viator. Simply click on the “Book Now” button and follow the instructions. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially in peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

Taking a tour from Zurich to Lucerne is a must-have experience if you want to explore Switzerland’s most stunning cities. With this full-day tour, you can enjoy the best views of Lake Lucerne, the Lion Monument, and Lucerne’s Old Town in a relaxing and hassle-free way. Book your tour today, and we promise it’ll be worth it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Zurich

1. What is Zurich and where is it located?

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, nestled in the north-central part of the country. It is a global hub for finance and banking, with a robust economy and stunning natural beauty.

2. How do I get to Zurich?

Zurich is located in the heart of Europe and is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. The city has a modern and efficient public transportation system, including trains, trams, and buses. The main airport is Zurich Airport, which is located just 13 km from the city center.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Zurich?

Zurich has many unique attractions that are sure to satisfy any traveler. Some of the top attractions include:

3.1. Old Town (Altstadt)

The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and with good reason. It boasts historic buildings, narrow streets, and quaint shops that offer a glimpse into Zurich’s past.

3.2. Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich is situated in the heart of the city and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place for swimming, boating, or simply relaxing.

3.3. Grossmünster

The Grossmunster is one of the most iconic buildings in Zurich. It is an imposing cathedral with twin towers that dominate the city’s skyline. It was constructed in the 12th century and is steeped in history and tradition.

3.4. Kunsthaus Zurich

The Kunsthaus Zurich is a world-renowned museum that features an impressive collection of art dating from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. It is a must-visit for art lovers.

4. What is the best time to visit Zurich?

The best time to visit Zurich is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and pleasant, and there are many outdoor events and festivals to enjoy.

5. What is the cuisine like in Zurich?

Zurich has a diverse and delicious cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients and traditional dishes. Some popular dishes include Zurich-style veal with mushrooms, rösti (a type of potato fritter), and traditional Swiss cheese fondue.

6. How expensive is Zurich?

Zurich is known to be an expensive city, with high prices for food, lodging, and transportation. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in budget accommodations, using public transportation, and eating at local cafes and markets.

7. What are the customs and traditions in Zurich?

Zurich has a rich cultural history, with unique customs and traditions that are still observed today. Some popular customs include:

7.1. Sechseläuten

Sechseläuten is a spring festival that is celebrated on the third Monday of April. It involves a parade, fireworks, and the burning of a snowman effigy.

7.2. Swiss National Day

Swiss National Day is celebrated on August 1st, and is marked by parades, fireworks, and other festivities.

7.3. Christmas Markets

Zurich has a number of Christmas markets that are a beloved tradition in the city. The markets offer crafts, food, and holiday cheer for visitors and locals alike.

8. What are some day trips from Zurich?

Zurich is located in a beautiful part of Switzerland and there are many day trips that are easy to take from the city. Some popular options include:

8.1. Lucerne

Lucerne is a picturesque town that is located about an hour from Zurich by train. It is home to the iconic Chapel Bridge and many other historic landmarks.

8.2. Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls are located near the city of Schaffhausen, about an hour from Zurich. They are the largest waterfall in Europe and a popular tourist attraction.

8.3. Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is a mountain that towers over Lucerne and can be reached by train or cable car. It offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery and is a great day trip from Zurich.

9. What is the nightlife like in Zurich?

Zurich has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its sophisticated and trendy nightlife, with a focus on high-end cocktails and chic decor.

10. What is the shopping like in Zurich?

Zurich is a shopper’s paradise, with many high-end boutiques and specialty shops to choose from. Some popular shopping destinations include Bahnhofstrasse, a pedestrian shopping street with designer stores, and Niederdorf, a trendy neighborhood with independent boutiques and vintage shops.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Zurich

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, be sure to reserve some time to visit Zurich. Located in the heart of Switzerland, it is a beautiful and vibrant city that is well worth exploring. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty, it offers something for everyone. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Zurich.

1. Take a Sightseeing Tour

The best way to get acquainted with Zurich is to take a sightseeing tour. The tours are usually conducted in English and they cover the main attractions in the city. The tours are available in various forms, including bus, bike, and walking tours. You can choose the one that best suits your preferences and budget. It is a great way to get an overview of the city and pick the best highlights to visit later.

2. Explore Old Town

Old Town is one of the most beautiful and historic parts of Zurich. It is filled with cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and charming cafes. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll discover a myriad of unique shops and boutiques. You can also visit various landmarks, monuments, and museums that are scattered throughout the district. It is a great place to experience true Swiss culture and hospitality.

3. Visit the Iconic Landmarks

There are many iconic landmarks in Zurich that are worthy of a visit. Some of the most popular ones include:

3.1 The Grossmunster

This is one of the largest and most recognizable churches in Zurich. It stands tall on the banks of the Limmat River and dates back to the 12th century. You can climb up the tower to enjoy some breathtaking views of the city.

3.2 The Fraumunster

This is another impressive church that has a unique feature – it has five stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. The windows depict stories from the Bible and are considered one of the greatest works of art in Europe

3.3 The Bahnhofstrasse

The Bahnhofstrasse is one of the most prestigious shopping streets in the world. It is lined with luxury brands, such as Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. Even if you don’t intend to shop, it is worth exploring this famous street to soak in the glamorous atmosphere.

4. Experience Swiss Culinary Delights

Zurich is renowned for its delicious food and drink. When in Zurich, you must try the traditional Swiss dish – cheese fondue or raclette. For dessert, indulge in some mouth-watering Swiss chocolate or try some pastries at one of the many bakeries around the city. You can also quench your thirst with some authentic Swiss beer or wine.

5. Take a Boat Cruise

Zurich is situated on the banks of Lake Zurich, which is surrounded by mountains and offers stunning views. Taking a boat cruise is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the lake and the surrounding scenery. During the trip, you can admire the views of the city skyline, the distant Alps, and the picturesque towns on the shoreline.

6. Enjoy Outdoor Activities

If you love the great outdoors, Zurich is the perfect destination for you. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, cycling, swimming, and skiing. There are many scenic trails that offer panoramic views of the mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.

Book Your Tour Now

Zurich is a beautiful city that offers a lot to explore and experience for tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, shopping, or outdoor activities, Zurich has something to offer. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and you’ll have an unforgettable trip!