Central Switzerland attractions

Encircled by a trio of lakes—Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz—and adjacent to the neighboring peaks of Mt. Pilatus and Brunnistock, Mt. Rigi is the enduring postcard star of central Switzerland. Nicknamed the “Queen of the Mountains,” Rigi has long captured the hearts of artists, including author Mark Twain and painter J.M.W. Turner. Hike or hop on a scenic cogwheel train or cable car to reach the summit for unforgettable views.

Lake Brienz (Brienzersee) is one of the two lakes that flank the popular resort town of Interlaken. The village of Brienz, which sits on the opposite side of the lake (and from which the lake takes its name), is a picture-perfect Swiss spot made up of traditional wooden chalets with the snow-capped Alps rising behind them.

Set on the left bank of the River Reuss, the Lucerne Old Town is encircled by medieval walls and watchtowers and connected to the right bank by two covered wooden bridges: Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) and Spreuer Bridge (Spreuerbrücke). The narrow streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are lined with half-timbered houses and 15th-century buildings.

Known in folklore as the Dragon Mountain, Mt. Pilatus dominates the backdrop around Lucerne and its lake. In terms of sheer size and visitor numbers, this is Lucerne’s big attraction, enticing travelers from around the world to ascend its 6,995-foot (2,123-meter) summit by cogwheel train—a route billed as the steepest cogwheel train ride on Earth—or by gondola. Hiking trails and a rope park await at the mid-levels, while viewpoints and restaurants beckon from the top.

Located at the heart of Bernese Oberland and surrounded by the famous peaks of Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus, Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) is one of Central Switzerland’s most photographed natural wonders and the country’s fourth largest lake. Whether you’re soaring overhead in a cable car, cruising the lake itself, or visiting waterfront villages such as Weggis and Gersau, Lake Lucerne is mesmerizing from all angles.

With its network of cable cars and cogwheel railways traversing the snow-clad slopes of the mighty Mount Pilatus, Pilatus Railways (Pilatus Bahnen) provides the link between the lakeside resort of Lucerne and the 7,000-foot (2,133-meter) summit.

Situated on the shores of sparkling Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee), at the base of Mt. Pilatus, the small city of Lucerne (Luzern) is one of Switzerland’s most scenic destinations and a popular basecamp for exploring the Swiss Alps. Stroll through Lucerne’s historic center, complete with medieval ramparts and alpine views, then head into the mountains for hiking, cycling, and winter sports adventures.