Under $100: Lucerne, Switzerland

Located on the shores of Lake Lucerne and the River Reuss, nestled in the Swiss Alps, is Switzerland’s charming and romantic city of Lucerne.

The Lion of Lucerne, Switzerland © Worapat Maitriwong | Dreamstime

The compact city is located in the German-speaking region of the country, surrounded by mounts Pilatus and Rigi. The fairytale-like city is home to several historic landmarks in its Old Town, brightly painted timber homes and mysterious remnants of Old Town walls and buildings. Some of the most impressive sights in Lucerne can be seen for little to no cost.

Visit the beautiful Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Europe, erected in the 14^th century. The bridge runs by the octagonal Water Tower, a fortification build in the 13^th century. Inside the bridge are a series of paintings from the 17^th century depicting historic events that occurred in the region.

Between the Kasernenplatz and the Muhlenplatz, the Spreuer Bridge zigzags across the Reuss, constructed in 1408, and the twin needle towers of the Church of St. Leodegar, named after the city’s patron saint, sit on a hill above the lakefront. The well-preserved medieval Altstadt, or Old Town, boasts a reputation for music, covered bridges, open plazas, colorful buildings and waterfront promenades.

Lucerne, Switzerland © Rosshelen | Dreamstime

If you’re looking for some culture, head to the Museum Sammlung Rosengart, a stunning example of Neoclassical architecture, located in the heart of town. The museum showcases the impressive collection of Angela Rosengart, a Swiss art dealer and close friend of Picasso. See paintings and sketches by Klee, Cézanne, Renoir, Monet and Kandinsky. A trip to this museum does cost around $18, but is well worth it for art lovers.

Adventure and outdoor activity seekers can easily take a daytrip to the
“top of Europe” and take in the panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. Take a scenic drive through mountain passes to the picturesque Lauterbrunnen or a cogwheel train trip and see the UNESCO World Heritage site of Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station at an impressive 11,333 feet.

For a shorter excursion, go on an Alpine adventure to Mt. Pilatus from Lucerne on a scenic gondola ride to Fräkmüntegg, and hop on the aerial cableway for the ascent to the summit. Once at the summit, relax or take a short hike to take advantage of the beautiful scenery below.

© Mihai-bogdan Lazar | Dreamstime

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to an authentic Swiss meal at Wirthaus Galliker, run by the Galliker family for more than four generations. The old-style, wood-paneled tavern attracts both regulars and visitors with its traditional Lucerne comfort food. Another spot serving great food for reasonable prices is Jazzkantine, an Italian establishment featuring authentic dishes and lively jazz music. For a quick, cheap bite, stop in KKL World Café, serving salads, sandwiches, soups and more.

Lucerne is an easily accessible destination, reachable by the Swiss Federal Railway from every major city in Switzerland, ideal for a daytrip. The city also sits at the north end of the Vierwaldstättersee, one of the busiest waterways in Switzerland, so access by boat is also an option.

Once in Lucerne, the city is traversable by foot. The Old Town is small, and must-see sites are within a 20-minute walk. There is also a city bus system. The Lido beach and the Swiss Transport Museum are a bit further out and can be reached by bus or boat for only a couple dollars. Bicycles are available for rent throughout the city for only a dollar or two per day, and electric bikes are also available. Bike lanes are available on most secondary streets, and Lucerne drivers are aware and polite to cyclists.