Lucerne is possibly one of the prettiest cities in the world. The fairy tale combination of its charming old town, majestic mountains and entrancing lake come together to bring you this enchanting city.
As one of the most charming towns in Switzerland. It has a rich history, diverse culture, vibrant nightlife, and incredible natural scenery. Lucerne is, without a doubt, a must-visit when travelling through Central Europe.
Lucerne is incredible for MANY reasons but the one that holds my heart the most is… it’s chocolate! Lucerne represents the chocolate of Switzerland like no other city does. Creamy and delectable – mmmm, mmmm.
But a trip to Lucerne doesn’t come cheap and accommodations that don’t break the bank can be hard to come by. This is exactly why I’ve put together this guide for where to stay in Lucerne.
I’m here to help you find the best place to stay in Lucerne for YOU and your travel desires. Whether you’re up for splashing some cash on a slice of luxury or you just want the cheapest bed in town, I’ve got you covered
Let’s jump right to it. Here are my top picks for where to stay in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Lucerne?
- Lucerne Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Lucerne
- Lucerne’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Lucerne
- What To Pack For Lucerne
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Lucerne
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Lucerne
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay in Switzerland? Well, these are my absolute TOP recommendations for places to stay in Lucerne.
Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern | Best Hotel in Lucerne
This property is my top pick for the best hotel in Lucerne. It offers gorgeous, spacious rooms with a range of amenities and features. You’ll also have access to a fitness centre, garden, a terrace and restaurant in Luzern. Set in Altstadt, this hotel is conveniently located for sightseeing.
Backpackers Lucerne | Best Hostel in Lucerne
This is my favourite hostel in Lucerne because it offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It provides a range of accommodation options, including private, semi-private and dorm-style rooms. Guests also have access to a common room, self-catering facilities, hot showers and a book exchange.
Maisonette Studio at Old Town | Best Apartment in Lucerne
Nestled into the heart of the old town of Lucerne, this studio at Hirschenplatz is perfectly located for exploring on foot. This rooftop studio is on the fourth floor and offers epic views of Hirschenplatz. However, if you’ve got heavy ol’ luggage this one might not be for you, as there is no elevator in the building.
Altstadt (Old Town)
Altstadt is, without a doubt, our top choice for where to stay in Lucerne for your first time. It is the historic heart of Lucerne and is conveniently located at the centre of the city.
Tribschen
Tribschen is a large district located south of the city centre. Once Lucerne’s red light district, Tribschen has undergone a renaissance in recent years.
Neustadt (New Town)
Neustadt is a lively and vibrant neighbourhood located in central Lucerne. It sits across the river from the Old Town and offers a nice alternative to the winding cobblestone streets and history of the Altstadt.
Bruch
The up-and-coming Bruch neighbourhood is the coolest place to stay in Lucerne. Once home to the city’s cattle market, Bruch is now a gathering place for Lucerne’s hip, trendy and oh-so-cool populations.
Oberseeburg
The Oberseeburg district is located in eastern Lucerne. It is a typical family and residential neighbourhood that has an awesome variety of activities and attractions for travellers of all ages, from the Swiss Transport Museum to indoor clay tennis courts.
Lucerne is a small and beautiful city set in the heart of Switzerland, beloved by tourists. It is best known as the gateway to Central Switzerland and sits surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Its historic town centre bursts with history and charm and offers plenty of things to see and do for visitors. It’s a MUST when travelling in Switzerland.
The capital of the canton of Lucerne, the city is home to more than 81,000 people. It covers an area of 37.4 square kilometres and is divided into a number of unique neighbourhoods with lots to explore.
To help you plan your time in Lucerne, this guide will look at the best areas to stay in Lucerne-based on your interests, budget and needs.
Altstadt is the most famous neighbourhood in Lucerne. The historic centre of the city, this is the best neighbourhood in Lucerne to stay in if you’re interested in sightseeing, history, culture and cuisine. It’s a beautiful place to visit in Switzerland.
Travel south across the river and you’ll arrive in Neustadt, one of Lucerne’s best neighbourhoods for drinking, dancing, dining and enjoying a night out.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Head south from here to Tribschen. Nestled along the shores of Lake Lucerne, this neighbourhood offers stunning views, and relaxing parks and is my top pick for where to stay in Lucerne for one night because it’s where you’ll find the best deals in town.
Travel northwest from here to Bruch. This hip and trendy neighbourhood is one of the coolest places to stay in Lucerne thanks to its many shops, restaurants, cafes and hangouts.
And finally, Oberseeburg is a large and sprawling neighbourhood on the eastern edge of Lucerne. It is my number one choice for where to stay in Lucerne with kids because it has museums, beaches, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
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Lucerne’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Still not sure where to stay in Lucerne? Don’t worry because, in this next section, I’ll break down each neighbourhood for you in detail.
1. Altstadt (Old Town) – Where to Stay in Lucerne for Your First Time
Altstadt is, without a doubt, my top choice for where to stay in Lucerne for your first time. It is the historic heart of Lucerne and is conveniently located at the centre of the city. Packed with ancient landmarks and legendary sights, this neighbourhood is ideal for history buffs and culture vultures who are keen to check things off their bucket list.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
This neighbourhood is also home to Kapellbrucke, Lucerne’s iconic covered bridge. Spanning more than 200 meters across the River Reuss, Kapellbrucke, or the Chapel Bridge, is the oldest covered bridge in Europe and the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge. No trip to Lucerne is complete without taking a stroll across this legendary landmark.
Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern | Best Hotel in Altstadt
This property is my pick for the best hotel in Lucerne. It offers gorgeous, spacious rooms with a range of amenities and features. You’ll also have access to a fitness centre, garden, a terrace and restaurant in Luzern. Set in Altstadt, this hotel is conveniently located for sightseeing.
Altstadt Hotel Magic Luzern | Best Hotel in Altstadt
This charming three-star hotel is set at the heart of Old Town, the best neighbourhood to stay in Lucerne for sightseeing. It is within walking distance of Chapel Bridge and you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes nearby. This historic hotel has charming rooms, excellent facilities and an in-house bar. It’s a bangin’ hostel in Switzerland.
Barabas Luzern | Best Hostel in Altstadt
Barabas Luzern is one of the best places in Lucerne to stay. It is located at the heart of Old Town and is close to popular tourist attractions, bars, restaurants, cafes and shops. This is Switzerland’s first jailhouse hostel and it provides comfortable beds with an air of mystery.
Maisonette Studio at Old Town | Best Apartment in Altstadt
Nestled into the heart of the old town of Lucerne, this studio at Hirschenplatz is perfectly located for exploring on foot. This rooftop studio is on the fourth floor and offers epic views of Hirschenplatz. However, if you’ve got heavy ol’ luggage this one might not be for you, as there is no elevator in the building.
Things to See and Do in Altstadt
- Browse the exhibits at the Glacier Garden.
- Cross the Kapellbrucke (the Chapel Bridge), the oldest covered bridge in Europe.
- Enjoy a delicious meal on the banks of the river at Zunfthausrestaurant Pfistern.
- Explore the shops of the Kornmarkt.
- Marvel at the stunning Rathaus (Town Hall).
- Take a stroll through Muhlenplatz, one of Lucerne’s best city squares.
- Join a private laking tour of Lucerne, and explore popular highlights and hidden gems.
- Visit the nearby Lion of Lucerne rock carving.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Tribschen – Best Place to Stay in Lucerne on a Budget
Tribschen is a large district located south of the city centre. Once Lucerne’s red light district, Tribschen has undergone a renaissance in recent years. Gone are the gritty rundown buildings and in their place are new apartment blocks and thriving businesses giving this lakeside area a quiet and intimate vibe. Here you can enjoy a selection of cosy cafes or take a stroll through one of the district’s lush green spaces.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Tribschen is also my recommendation for where to stay in Lucerne on a budget. This neighbourhood has a good selection of hostels and affordable hotels that will help you stay on a budget while you travel the city.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne | Best Hotel in Tribschen
This spectacular hotel is nestled right into the heart of Lucerne, right by the train station. Guests have access to a terrace, Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, and a myriad of other excellent features. This apartment is a short walk from Old Town, which means there are lots of things to do within walking distance.
Backpackers Lucerne | Best Hostel in Tribschen
This is my favourite hostel in Lucerne because it offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It provides a range of accommodation options, including private, semi-private and dorm-style rooms. Guests also have access to a common room, self-catering facilities, hot showers and a book exchange.
Simple and most central | Best Airbnb in Tribschen
A cosy, simple room in a centrally located apartment block. This is a great choice for those looking to keep prices down in one of Europe’s most expensive countries. There’s a lot to explore nearby, including a small kitchenette for home cooking.
Things to See and Do in Tribschen
- Delve deep into the life of the world-renowned composer at the Richard Wagner Museum.
- Go for a spin around the rink at Eiszentrum Luzern.
- Relax on the sand or head out for a swim at Ufschotti Park.
- Take a stroll through Inseli Park.
- Go on a tour of Mt. Pilatus Cable Car, Cogwheel Train & Lake Cruise.
3. Neustadt (New Town) – Best Area to Stay in Lucerne For Nightlife
Neustadt is a lively and vibrant neighbourhood located in central Lucerne. It sits across the river from the Old Town and offers a nice alternative to the winding cobblestone streets and history of the Altstadt. A haven for young people, Neustadt boasts an excellent blend of shops and boutiques, as well as galleries, restaurants, cafes and cinemas.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
This neighbourhood is the best area in Lucerne to stay in for nightlife. Here you’ll find an awesome selection of bars and clubs that will suit travellers of all ages and styles. So whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy a riverside glass of wine, Neustadt has exactly what you’re looking for and so much more!
Capsule Hotel Lucerne | Best Hotel in Neustadt
This futuristic hotel is one of the coolest places to stay in Lucerne. It provides travellers with personal pods in air-conditioned rooms. You’ll enjoy free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and a modern shared bathroom. Plus, it’s situated in the best neighbourhood in Lucerne to stay in for nightlife and dining.
Hotel Alpina Luzern | Best Hotel in Neustadt
The Hotel Alpina is centrally located in Neustadt, the best area in Lucerne to stay in for nightlife. Nearby you’ll find a great selection of eateries and bistros, as well as bars, cafes and clubs. Rooms are cosy, comfortable and well-outfitted with modern amenities. This hotel also boasts a terrace, a bar, and a delicious in-house restaurant.
Waldstatterhof Swiss Quality Hotel | Best Hotel in Neustadt
Located in lively and vibrant Neustadt, this is an excellent option for Lucerne accommodation. It is close to well-known landmarks and attractions and offers easy access to bars, restaurants and shops. This hotel has 96 traditional rooms with a range of excellent amenities and features.
Designer apartment in the heart of the tourist centre | Best Airbnb in Neustadt
This 2 bedroom private apartment is in an ideal location for you if you’re looking to make the most of the local cafe and restaurant culture. It’s only a short way from the lakeside and the city centre.
Things to See and Do in Neustadt
- Chill out at Vögeligärtli Park.
- Explore Hirschmattstrasse, a vibey street full of small shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars.
- Explore the architecture and history of Neustadt on a walking tour that takes you through Vögeligärtli, Hirschmattstrasse, and Helvetiagärtli.
- Check out Neubad, an old swimming pool turned cultural hub that hosts dance and theatre performances, concerts, and other arty events.
- Jump on the famous panoramic yacht and cruise around Lucerne.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Bruch – Coolest Place to Stay in Lucerne
The up-and-coming Bruch neighbourhood is the coolest place to stay in Lucerne. Once home to the city’s cattle market, Bruch is now a gathering place for Lucerne’s hip, trendy and oh-so-cool populations.
This cosy and cool neighbourhood is located just northeast of Neustadt. It is home to a vast array of cafes and boutiques, as well as hip bars, trendy restaurants and imaginative high-end boutiques.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
One of Bruch’s most famous attractions is the chic and stylish Madeleine. This bar/club/cultural venue regularly hosts concerts and comedy specials, making it an excellent destination any night of the week.
Hotel Alpha Lucerne | Best Hotel in Bruch
The Hotel Alpha is your best bet for budget accommodations in Bruch, the best neighbourhood to stay in Lucerne for hipsters and trendsetters. Rooms are bright, airy and modern, and offer spacious rooms and spotless beds. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants and tourist attractions nearby.
Garni Hotel Drei Konige | Best Hotel in Bruch
This three-star hotel is conveniently located in Bruch. It is a short stroll from popular tourist landmarks as well as hip eateries and trendy clubs. This cosy hotel has 50 modern rooms that come complete with a great range of accessories. There’s also a delicious restaurant and stylish bar on-site.
Idyllic room in a historic chateau | Best Airbnb in Bruch
Bask in the charming culture and romantic atmosphere of the region from this beautiful period property. It’s got a serene beauty, inside and out, and doesn’t skim on any of the amenities you need to make your stay as convenient as possible.
Things to See and Do in Bruch
- Browse the exhibits at the Historisches Museum Kanton Luzern.
- Shop for handmade suspenders at Treger.
5. Oberseeburg – Best Neighbourhood in Lucerne for Families to Stay In
The Oberseeburg district is located in eastern Lucerne. It is a typical family and residential neighbourhood that has an awesome variety of activities and attractions for travellers of all ages, from the Swiss Transport Museum to indoor clay tennis courts.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
One of Oberseeburg’s top draws is the incredible Lucerne Lido. Stretching more than 300 meters along the shores of Lake Lucerne, this sandy beach is a great place to rest, relax and soak up a few rays. It has a nice walking path, a fun playground, and there’s even a heated pool nearby for swimmers who find the lake a little too cold for a swim.
Seeburg Swiss Quality Hotel | Best Hotel in Oberseeburg
This delightful hotel is one of my top picks for where to stay in Lucerne with kids because it offers comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. Located in Oberseeburg, this hotel has stunning lake and mountain views and spacious rooms. Guests can also enjoy a range of activities, like bowling, darts or miniature golf.
Seminarhotel Romerohaus | Best Hotel in Oberseeburg
The Seminarhotel Romerohaus is ideally located in Oberseeburg, one of Lucerne’s best neighbourhoods. It is in close proximity to the Lucerne Lido and the Swiss Museum of Transport is a short walk away. This hotel has 18 comfortable rooms with a range of contemporary amenities.
Villa Maria Lucerne | Best Guesthouse in Oberseeburg
Villa Maria Lucerne is situated in Lucerne’s Oberseeburg district. It is one of the best areas to stay in Lucerne because it has so many great things to see and do. This guesthouse has large rooms with private showers and free wifi. Guests can also enjoy miniature golf and outdoor tennis courts.
Pleasant living in a historic house | Best Airbnb in Oberseeburg
This historic, rustic family home is only a short walk from the town centre and comes with a great kitchen for whipping up some home-cooked magic. Surrounded by greenery and just a 15-minute walk from the Lakefront, you’ll be surrounded by nature!
Things to See and Do in Oberseeburg
- Delve deep into the history of road-, rail-, water-, and air-borne mobility at the Swiss Museum of Transportation.
- See works of art by a Swiss great at the Hans Erni Museum.
- Go for a lakeside stroll along General Guisan-Quai.
- Spend a peaceful afternoon playing in Hundefreilaufwiese Park.
- Admire the architecture and design of the Musikpavillon am Nationalquai.
- Step into a world of wonder at the Puppenhausmuseum.
- Splash swim and play at Lucerne’s Lido.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Lucerne
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Lucerne and where to stay.
What To Pack For Lucerne
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Which is the best luxury hotel in Lucerne?
If you’re after the creme de la creme of hotels in Lucerne, you’ll want to stay at Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern. It’s got everything you could ever need from a luxury stay in Lucerne.
Where is the best place to stay in Lucerne for your first visit?
Altstadt (Old Town) is the best area to perch up for your first visit to Lucerne. You’ll be nestled into the historical heart of the town and be close to some of the best attractions.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the train station?
The best hotel to stay at near the train station is Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne. It’s also within walking distance of the Old Town so you’ll be close to some of the best things to do in Lucerne.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Lucerne
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Lucerne.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Lucerne
Lucerne is a wonderful city with so much to offer travellers. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its inventive cuisine and lively nightlife, Switzerland’s seventh-largest city truly has something for travellers of all ages and interests.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Lucerne. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of my favourite places to stay.
Backpackers Lucerne is my favourite hostel because it offers a range of rooms and excellent facilities, like a kitchen, common room and book exchange, all at a BANGIN’ price!
Another good option is the Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern. This hotel is conveniently located in Lucerne’s Old Town and is a quick walk to an incredible selection of restaurants, shops and the city’s most famous tourist attractions.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Switzerland.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Lucerne.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Switzerland instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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