10 Best Things to Do in Lucerne in December
Looking for the best things to do in Lucerne in December? Then you have come to the right place!
Lucerne is an absolutely gorgeous city to visit, no matter what time of year it is. But December comes with light snowfall and twinkling lights that just make everything so magical.
Our family visited Lucerne in December to hit the Christmas Markets and do some sightseeing. It was awesome!
Not only was the weather reasonable, but aside from in the Christmas Markets, there were very few crowds!
Want to learn more? Let’s jump right in!
Lucerne in December – Quick Guide
If you are in a hurry, here’s a quick list of the top things to do in Lucerne in December:
- Lucerne’s Old Town – Cobblestone streets with wonderful shops, cafes, and historical landmarks.
- Kapellbrücke – Gorgeous wooden bridge containing artwork and decorated with flowers.
- Christmas Markets – Festive markets, filled with unique crafts, warm treats, and twinkling lights.
- Mount Pilatus – Head up Mount Pilatus for stunning snowy landscapes and thrilling winter activities.
- Lake Lucerne Cruise – Take a Lake Lucerne cruise to soak in the quiet winter scenery and the snowy Alps around you.
Is Lucerne Worth Visiting in December?
YES! Lucerne is most definitely worth visiting in December.
As I mentioned in my intro, the gorgeous city looks like something straight out of a fairytale book in the winter.
From the gorgeous twinkling lights to the snow-capped mountains, and of course, the awesome Christmas Markets, it truly is a wonderful experience.
And the fact that there are fewer crowds to deal with, is just icing on the cake!
Lucerne in December – Map
The map shows the stops that are suggested on this one-day itinerary. We tried to group activities close enough together so that you wouldn’t be running all over the place.
Clicking on the map above will take you to Google Maps. There, you will be able to see the destinations in better detail.
Best things to do in Lucerne in December
1. Stroll Around the Old Town
Strolling through the Old City is definitely something you don’t want to miss when visiting Lucerne in December.
The Old Town is filled with chocolate shops, gorgeously painted buildings, wonderful architecture, fountains, and did I mention the chocolate shops?
I’m not going to lie, it was difficult for me to walk past a chocolate shop, without getting lured in by the intoxicating aroma of melted chocolate!
🌐 Pro Tip: The official language of Lucerne is German. But you are more likely to hear Lucerne German, which is the local variant of the Alemannic Swiss German dialect.
The Old Town is filled with high-end boutiques, tons of places to buy Swiss Watches, cheesemakers, cafes, and restaurants.
We spent several hours walking around the town on our own and taking in the sites.
During a previous visit, we actually took a guided walking tour. This is a great option if you want to learn more about the old town and the historic buildings.
2. Take an Instagram-worthy photo on the Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge is one of the best places in Lucerne to grab that awesome photo for the ‘Gram.
While the bridge isn’t as pretty in winter as it is in the summer with all the flower baskets, I still love its aesthetic.
Considered Europe’s oldest covered bridge, it was built in 1332 as part of the fortifications for Lucerne.
This gorgeous bridge zigzags across the Reuss River, connecting the New Town on the southern bank to the medieval Old Town on the north side.
But what really makes this bridge special, are the paintings that hang inside along the roofline. The paintings depict historical events and legends from Lucerne.
Out of the 158 paintings that were originally hung, damage caused by the passage of time, as well as a fire in 1993, only 47 originals are still hanging today.
You can even see the char marks on some of them if you look closely.
♿ Insider Tip: The Chapel Bridge is fully accessible. There is a wheelchair lift on both ends of the bridge allowing the bridge to be barrier-free.
You will also find a tower that sits midway across the bridge.
The Tower is approximately 30 years older than the bridge and was once used as a city treasury, a prison and even a torture chamber for criminals. Yikes!
The octagonal-shaped “Water Tower,” as it is known today, is closed to the public.
However, it does house a small gift shop where you will find some interesting souvenirs.
Address: Kapellbrücke, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland
3. Enjoy the Christmas Markets
In December, Lucerne’s Christmas markets are a must-visit.
You’ll find the main Christmas markets at Franziskanerplatz, Kappelplatz, and Inseli Park.
Each of these locations offers a unique festive atmosphere with stalls that feature holiday treats, crafts, and decorations, as well as tons of places to try some tasty local treats.
It’s a great time to enjoy some hot chocolate or Glühwein as you stroll through the various markets.
Don’t miss the chance to catch a live music performance that often accompanies these festive markets.
We would absolutely recommend visiting the markets at night. With all the lights twinkling, it definitely takes the festive atmosphere up a notch!
4. Hit the Slopes at Mount Titlis
Heading up to Mount Titlis is a fantastic way to spend a day when you’re in Lucerne during December.
The mountain is well-known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions.
And don’t worry if you are not a pro skier, there are plenty of trails that are suited for beginners.
You can rent all the gear you need right on the mountain, making it easy to hit the slopes even if you didn’t pack your own.
Apart from skiing, you can also enjoy the gorgeous views on the cable car ride up, or try other snow activities like snowshoeing.
Let’s not forget the fantastic Chalet for some après-ski. There, you can enjoy a drink on the sun terraces or in the Trübsee-Bar.
I’ll let John do the skiing. You can find me in the Chalet!
5. Go for a Boat Cruise on Lake Lucerne
Taking a boat trip on Lake Lucerne is definitely a must, no matter what time of the year you are visiting.
There are a variety of tour companies operating out of Lucerne that you can choose from.
While we chose a cruise that was more geared toward families, there are others that are more adult-oriented. You can also choose a cruise based on your budget.
During our December cruise, we chose to sit inside as it was quite chilly on the outer deck. I did venture out for a bit to grab some photos, but the wind was not fun!
Sitting inside while sipping Glühwein was much more comfortable!
Our captain provided a steady stream of interesting commentary on the area’s history and interesting sites we could see from the boat.
The cruise was about an hour and a half in length.
It was relaxing, and informative, and allowed us to see things from a different perspective, than if we had only been driving through the area.
6. Go Sledding on Mount Rigi
Sledding on Mount Rigi in December is a little more my speed!
You can take a scenic train ride up the mountain, rent a sled at the top, and then zoom down the well-maintained sledding paths.
Rigi Kulm area, the highest peak on Mount Rigi, offers several sledding runs that vary in length and difficulty, providing fun for both beginners and more adventurous sledders.
The most popular route starts right at Rigi Kulm and goes down to Rigi Klösterli.
This run is about 3 kilometres long and offers a fun and scenic descent. The ride lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on your speed and the snow conditions.
Best of all, sledding at Mount Rigi is suitable for all ages, making it a great family activity.
After a few runs, you can even warm up with some hot soup or a drink at one of the mountain’s cozy restaurants before heading back down.
Address: 6410 Arth, Switzerland
7. Take Part in Some Holiday Activities
There are so many great holiday activities that take place in Lucerne in December.
While we totally enjoyed wandering through the beautifully decorated streets and plazas, admiring the twinkling lights and holiday decorations, you may want a little more.
One thing we can recommend is to participate in a holiday workshop. Head over to Vögeligärtli, a small park in the center of Lucerne, where you can learn the traditional Swiss art of candle-dipping.
Lucerne also hosts a variety of concerts and performances during the holiday season, featuring everything from classical music to local choirs.
One last festive thing to do in December is to enjoy outdoor ice skating at the Live on Ice Luzern. This seasonal ice rink is set up in the Europaplatz, right in front of the KKL Luzern (Culture and Convention Centre).
This beautifully lit rink offers an incredible view of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. What better backdrop for some holiday ice skating?
The rink typically features a cozy lounge area where you can relax with a warm drink or snack after skating.
It’s a pretty popular spot for locals and a great way to stay warm in the chilly weather.
8. Treat Yourself to a Thermal Mountain Top Spa
For a truly relaxing experience, treat yourself to a visit to a thermal mountain-top spa.
One of the best places for this is the Mineral Baths & Spa Rigi-Kaltbad.
Located on Mount Rigi, this spa utilizes the naturally occurring mineral-rich thermal waters that have been drawing visitors for centuries.
The spa features outdoor and indoor pools, a crystal spa, and various wellness treatments, all while offering gorgeous views of the surrounding Alps.
In my opinion, it is the perfect way to unwind and warm up after a day of winter activities.
And in case you have the family in tow, the Mineral Baths & Spa Rigi-Kaltbad is very family-friendly.
The facility offers the perfect environment where families with older children can enjoy the thermal waters and the relaxation areas together.
The spa also has specific family-friendly times and services designed to accommodate younger guests. This ensures that everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Just a heads up, children must be over the age of 4 to enter the mineral baths.
9. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth on a Chocolate Tasting Tour
A chocolate-tasting tour in Lucerne is an absolute must, no matter what time of the year you are visiting!
It is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring some of the finest Swiss chocolates.
You can join a guided tour that will take you through some of the best local chocolatiers.
There, you can learn about the chocolate-making process and, of course, sample a variety of mouth-watering chocolates.
These tours often include visits to small, artisan shops as well as larger, well-known Swiss chocolate brands.
Chocolate tours are not only a great way to learn why Swiss chocolate is celebrated worldwide, but most guides will also give you some insights about the town as you walk from place to place.
This sweet adventure is perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages and makes for a tasty break between sightseeing and shopping.
10. Go for a Fondue Gondola Ride up to Mount Pilatus
Taking a fondue gondola ride up to Mount Pilatus is one of the most unique and enjoyable experiences.
It is absolutely a perfect way to spend a chilly December day in Lucerne.
This special adventure combines a scenic cable car ride with the delight of a traditional Swiss fondue.
As you ascend the mountain in the comfort of a gondola, you can enjoy a warm, gooey cheese fondue, surrounded by jaw-dropping views of the snow-covered mountains below.
The journey typically starts from Kriens, where you board the gondola that takes you towards Pilatus Kulm.
It’s a perfect activity for either a romantic evening or a fun experience with family.
We can’t emphasize this enough, be sure to book in advance as these fondue gondola rides are quite popular. Not to mention, they are only available on specific dates during the winter season.
Just a heads up, the fondue gondola rides up to Mount Pilatus will only accommodate a maximum of four people per gondola. There are no exceptions.
Where to Stay in Lucerne
Looking for somewhere to stay in Lucerne? There are a ton of great hotels, suited to all kinds of budgets, located throughout the city.
So whether you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective option or a more luxurious experience, you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect accommodations in Lucerne.
During a couple of our visits to Lucerne, we stayed at the Hotel Astoria. We found it to be clean, centrally located, with some really nice views of the city.
Luxury Accommodations
Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern
Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is located by Lake Lucerne, close to major attractions, and offers luxurious rooms, a spa, diverse dining options, and a lively bar with live music.
This historic hotel features themed rooms that recount the tales of its notable guests.
HERMITAGE Lake Lucerne
Located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, HERMITAGE offers stunning lake views near the city center.
The hotel features modern amenities, a variety of dining options, and a commitment to sustainability.
Moderate Accommodations
Hotel Astoria
Hotel Astoria is located in the heart of Lucerne, offering easy access to shops, dining, and landmarks, with modern rooms, rooftop dining, and a trendy bar.
It is popular for its unique architecture and stunning city views.
Hotel Des Alpes
Hotel Des Alpes is set in the center of Lucerne, featuring rooms with river views and easy access to historic spots like the Chapel Bridge.
It offers comfy accommodations, a riverside restaurant, and is noted for its classic Swiss architecture.
Budget Accommodations
Backpackers Lucerne
Backpackers Lucerne is right near Lake Lucerne and public transport, making it easy to explore the city.
It offers both shared and private rooms, a communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and is known for its welcoming vibe and affordable rates.
Seminarhotel Romerohaus
Seminarhotel Romerohaus is located in a quiet spot near Lake Lucerne, close to the city center, and features simple, comfy rooms with meeting spaces and dining options.
It’s recognized for its lovely garden and commitment to sustainability.
How to Get to Lucerne
Getting to Lucerne is pretty easy, thanks to Switzerland’s efficient and well-connected transportation network.
Whether you’re coming in by air, train, or road, here’s how you can reach this incredible city:
By Air
- The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), about an hour’s train ride or drive from Lucerne.
- Direct trains and shuttle services are available from Zurich Airport to Lucerne.
- You can also rent a car at the airport for a more flexible travel schedule to Lucerne.
By Train
- Direct connections to Lucerne from major Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Bern.
- Lucerne’s main train station is centrally located, making it a convenient entry point to the city.
- Offers scenic routes, such as the GoldenPass Line, for an enjoyable travel experience.
- From international destinations like Milan, Frankfurt, or Paris, you can find direct connections or ones with minimal changes.
By Car
- Well-connected by road with major Swiss cities; driving from Zurich, Bern, or Basel takes about 1 to 2 hours.
- Parking can be limited in the city center; consider using designated parking areas outside the central zone.
- Scenic drives offer beautiful views of the Swiss countryside and Alps.
By Bus
- International and domestic bus services connect Lucerne with various European cities.
- The main bus terminal is located near the train station, offering easy access to the city center.
- An affordable option, with several daily routes from major cities.
By Boat
- Regular boat services connect Lucerne with surrounding towns across Lake Lucerne.
- Offers a unique and scenic approach to the city.
- Seasonal schedules vary, so check timetables in advance for your travel planning.
Swiss Travel Pass
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Getting Around Lucerne
We found navigating Lucerne to be relatively easy, thanks to its compact size and efficient public transportation system.
Here are some tips and insights on how to get around Lucerne, so that you and your family can explore the city with ease:
Walking
We found Lucerne’s city center to be very pedestrian-friendly, with many of its key attractions within walking distance of each other.
Strolling along the streets not only allows you to appreciate just how charming the city really is but also gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
This was pretty much the only way that we explored the city, and loved every minute!
Buses
Lucerne’s bus network is extensive and can take you to nearly every corner of the city.
It’s a convenient option for reaching destinations that are a bit further out, like the Transport Museum or certain accommodations.
Boats
Taking a boat is a scenic way to explore Lucerne and its surroundings, especially the scenic Lake Lucerne.
We have taken the boat twice while in Lucerne, and couldn’t recommend it more!
Some boat services are included in the Swiss Travel Pass or the Lucerne Visitor Card (see tip below), making them a great option for sightseeing from the water.
By Car
While driving in Lucerne is possible, we would not recommend it for the city center due to traffic and limited parking. It’s also quite expensive.
During our road trip through Switzerland, we rented a car. However, it was pretty challenging to find parking in most of the larger cities.
That said, the convenience of being able to travel where and when we wanted, outweighed the parking issues.
On one of our trips, we were able to find a parking garage in the center of Lucerne. We ended up leaving the car there while we explored the city on foot.
🚌 Insider Tip – If you stay in an official accommodation in Lucerne, you will get a Visitor Card. This allows you to use public transportation for free. The card is only valid for the town center but would be perfect for visiting Lucerne in December.
What is the weather like in Lucerne in December?
In December, you can expect to find chilly temperatures that typically range from -1 to 4 degrees Celsius.
During this month, the city often sees a mix of sunny days and overcast skies, with occasional light snowfall.
This cooler weather is perfect for enjoying the festive outdoor markets or cozying up in local cafes after exploring.
Being Canadian, we did not find it to be uncomfortably cold in Lucerne during our December visit.
While it was cold on the water during our cruise, as well as chilly on Mount Pilatus, we did not need to bundle up too much for just walking around the city.
Lucerne Switzerland in December – FAQs
Most shops in Lucerne are open from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays, with shorter hours on Saturdays, and are usually closed on Sundays, except during special holiday shopping days.
Yes, public transportation like buses and trains operate on a limited schedule on Christmas and New Year’s Day, so it’s advisable to check the specific timetables in advance.
Lucerne hosts several New Year’s Eve celebrations, including fireworks over Lake Lucerne and special gala dinners at local hotels and restaurants.
During the winter months, dress in warm layers, including a waterproof and windproof jacket, thermal wear, a hat, gloves, and warm boots, as temperatures can be quite cold.
Lucerne is quite lively in December, especially around the Christmas markets and major shopping areas, but it’s less crowded than peak tourist seasons, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Lucerne is definitely worth visiting in December!
From visiting Mount Pilatus to strolling through the gorgeous Christmas Markets and sampling some delicious chocolate treats, we had a pretty awesome few days.
Of course, this beautiful city has enough to keep you busy for a week, if you have the time.
So whether you are travelling as a couple, alone, or with kids in tow, we would definitely recommend adding Lucerne to your Switzerland itinerary.
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