Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience Lake Lucerne. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise

• Mt. Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise

• Mt. Pilatus Peak and Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group | From Lucerne

• Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour: The Best Swiss Experience

• Lucerne's Hidden Secrets by Electric Cargo Bike (Small Groups)

It’s free to visit Lake Lucerne on your own, and the shoreline has scenic walks and pretty towns overlooking the lake to explore. There are plenty of affordable tours that cover the most panoramic sights surrounding the lake in one day without the hassle of coordinating transportation. Day trips to Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus that include a lake cruise start at around US$220.

Yes, Lake Lucerne is one of the most picturesque alpine lakes in Switzerland, with a craggy shoreline backed by the soaring peaks of Rigi and Pilatus, a sprinkling of postcard-perfect villages along the waterfront, and the vibrant city of Lucerne. To optimize your time and see the lake highlights in a single day, consider a tour that includes transportation plus lift and boat tickets.

Per one customer who booked the Mt. Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise: "We had a wonderful experience on our day trip to Mt Pilatus and Lucerne. Our tour guide, Adolfo, was exceptional—very knowledgeable, organized, and always accommodating. His friendly nature and willingness to help made the day run smoothly and added a personal touch to the journey. We also want to highlight Ernesto, our bus driver, who was very professional throughout the trip. His safe and smooth driving made us feel comfortable and well taken care of. The views from Mt. Pilatus were absolutely stunning and truly unforgettable. ... Overall, this trip was a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Switzerland, and the professionalism of both Adolfo and Ernesto made it even more enjoyable. Highly recommended!"

There are no shortage of natural attractions to see at Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee), including its bays, the peninsulas, and the peaks of Pilatus, Rigi, and Bürgenstock. From the water, you’ll also be able to spot a number of historical buildings, such as Meggenhorn Castle, the tiny Tell’s Chapel, and Fortress Fürigen in Stansstad.

For high-up views, head to Mt. Rigi and gaze down on Lake Lucerne below. Känzeli is a popular lookout point, which you can reach via the gondola from Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad, followed by a short hike. Another option is the Sonnenberg summit, accessed via the Kriens funicular.

Yes, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and motorboats on Lake Lucerne. For motorboats, Lucerne, Rapperswil, and Gersau all have rental operators. For kayaks, paddleboards, and pedalos, look to the lake beaches where there are many options for water sport rentals. Note that you may need to provide identification ahead of renting, and some companies prefer cash payment.

Yes, there are cycling and hiking routes around Lake Lucerne’s shores and nearby roads. A scenic cycling stretch is the Zug-Sarnen, which passes Lucerne, Zug, and Salern lakes. Hikers have plenty of options, but the Stoos Ridgeline trail is loved for its views.

Lake Lucerne is a great place for a swim, as long as you know when and where to go. Follow the lead of locals: Go when the water’s warm—generally between June and August—and swim from the badi (lidos) where there are often lifeguards. Strandbad Tribschen and Lido Lucerne are top picks.

The city of Lucerne is right on the edge of the lake, so all of its attractions are nearby, including Chapel Bridge, the Musegg Wall, and the old town. Mt. Rigi is a great day trip, offering easy summit hikes and the chance to ride a cogwheel mountain train.

There are tons of things to do when you're done visiting Lake Lucerne. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Lucerne:

• Mt. Pilatus

• Pilatus Railways

• Lucerne Old Town

• Chapel Bridge

• Mt. Titlis

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Lucerne.