Lucerne is 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.
But a trip to Lucerne doesn’t come cheap and accommodations that don’t break the bank can be hard to come by. Which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Lucerne.
This Lucerne neighbourhood guide was put together by our expert travel writers. It highlights the best places in Lucerne to stay and organizes them by interest. So whether you’re looking to delve deep into history, party all night long, or explore the hippest neighbourhood in town, this guide will help you find the perfect Lucerne accommodation for your wants and needs.
Let’s jump right to it. Here are our top five picks for where to stay in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Looking for a specific place to stay in Switzerland? Well these are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Lucerne.
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Best Airbnb in Lucerne: Private apartment in the city center
This private apartment might be lacking in the decor department, but it more than makes up for it with functionality and price. It’s got a great location in the heart of the village, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
Best Hostel in Lucerne: Backpackers Lucerne
This is our 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.
Best Hotel in Lucerne: Altstadt Hotel Krone Apartments Luzern
This property is our pick for the best hotel in Lucerne. It is comprised of eight well-equipped rooms with a range of amenities and features, like luggage storage. You’ll also have access to a swimming pool and free wifi. Set in Altstadt, this hotel is conveniently located for sightseeing.
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. It’s historic town centre bursts with history and charm and offers plenty of things to see and do for visitors.
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.
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.
Head south from here to Tribschen. Nestled along the shores of Lake Lucerne, this neighbourhood offers stunning views, relaxing parks and is our top pick for where to stay in Lucerne for one night because its 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 our number one choice for where to stay in Lucerne with kids because it has museums, beaches, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Lucerne’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Still not sure where to stay in Lucerne? Don’t worry because in this next section we’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, 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. 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.
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.
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.
- Dine on French fare at Brasserie Bodu.
- Enjoy a delicious meal on the banks of the river at Zunfthausrestaurant Pfistern.
- Explore the shops of the Kornmarkt.
- Grab a relaxed drink at Sopranos.
- Indulge in sweet treats at Mill’Feuille.
- Marvel at the stunning Rathaus (Town Hall).
- Play a few games and enjoy a few rounds at Tresor Luzern Bar.
- Take a stroll through Muhlenplatz, one of Lucerne’s best city squares.
- Visit the nearby Lion of Lucerne rock carving.
Best Airbnb in Altstadt: Private apartment in the city center
This private apartment might be lacking in the decor department, but it more than makes up for it with functionality and price. It’s got a great location in the heart of the village, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
Best Hostel in Altstadt: Barabas Luzern
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.
Best Hotel in Altstadt: Altstadt Hotel Krone Apartments Luzern
This property is our pick for the best hotel in Lucerne. It is comprised of eight well-equipped rooms with a range of amenities and features, like luggage storage. You’ll also have access to a swimming pool and free wifi. Set in Altstadt, this hotel is conveniently located for sightseeing.
Best Hotel in Altstadt: Altstadt Hotel Magic Luzern
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.
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Learn More Now!#2 Tribschen – Where 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.
Tribschen is also our 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 budget while you explore the city.
Things to See and Do in Tribschen
- Catch a live show at Treibhaus Luzern.
- Delve deep into the life of the world-renowned composer at the Richard Wagner Museum.
- Enjoy a great night of delicious food and friendly drinks at Peperoncini Tribschen.
- Feast on fresh and flavourful Swiss and Mediterranean food at Restaurant Quai4.
- Go for a spin around the rink at Eiszentrum Luzern.
- Indulge in a delicious plate of American fare at N’Ice.
- Relax on the sand or head out for a swim at Ufschotti Park.
- Take a stroll through Inseli Park.
Best Hostel in Tribschen: Backpackers Lucerne
This is our 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.
Best Airbnb in Tribschen: Cosy private room in an apartment complex
A cosy room in a centrally located apartment block. This is a great choice for those looking to keep prices down in one of europes most expensive countries. There’s a lot to explore nearby, and a small kitchenette for home cooking.
Cosy private room in an apartment complex is one of our favourites in Lucerne but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Tribschen: Central Apartments Lucerne
This property is one of the best places to stay in Lucerne if you’re on a budget. It is located in northern Tribschen and is within walking distance of Neustadt and Altstadt. Apartments are outfitted with a variety of features, perfect for travellers of all styles and needs.
Central Apartments Lucerne is one of our favourites in Lucerne but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Tribschen: Penthouse Apartments Lakeside
This spectacular penthouse apartment boasts amazing views of Lake Lucerne. Comprised of two rooms, guests have access to a sun deck, wifi and a myriad of excellent features. This apartment is a short walk from Old Town, which means there are lots of things to do within walking distance.
Penthouse Apartments Lakeside is one of our favourites in Lucerne but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
#3 Neustadt (New Town) – Where 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.
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!
Things to See and Do in Neustadt
- Dance the night away at Brooklyn Club & Lounge.
- Drink sophisticated and urbane drinks at Bar Capitol.
- Eat tasty food in a unique setting at Neubad, a former indoor swimming pool that now hosts regular events and spectacles.
- Enjoy a delicious meal at Burgerstube.
- Indulge in homemade pizza and pasta at Restaurant La Cucina.
- Party all night long at Das schwarze Schaf.
- Sip unique cocktails in a retro setting at Car Bar Max.
- Spend a great night out at lively Roadhouse.
Best Hotel in Neustadt: Capsule Hotel Lucerne
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 wifi, 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.
Best Hotel in Neustadt: Hotel Alpina Luzern
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 and comfortable and well-outfitted with modern amenities. This hotel also boasts a terrace, a bar, and a delicious in-house restaurant.
Best Hotel in Neustadt: Waldstatterhof Swiss Quality Hotel
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.
Best Airbnb in Neustadt: Modern studio in the heart of New Town
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.
Modern studio in the heart of New Town is one of our favourites in Lucerne but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Buy 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.
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.
Things to See and Do in Bruch
- Browse the exhibits at the Historisches Museum Kanton Luzern.
- Catch a live show at atmospheric La Madeleine.
- Dine on exceptional Swiss food at Restaurant & Bar Drei Koenige.
- Don’t miss the chance to eat lunch at Jodlerwirt – die Schlagerbeiz, an awesome and authentic Swiss restaurant.
- Enjoy sweeping views of the river and the city from the Penthouse Roof Top Bar.
- Excite your tastebuds with authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pikante Peruvian Cuisines & Pisco Lounge.
- Indulge in fresh and delicious seafood and Mediterranean dishes at Tapas Cabanas.
- Shop for handmade suspenders at Treger.
- Sip cocktails at the ultra-hip The BruchBrothers bar.
Best Airbnb in Bruch: Idyllic room in a historic chateau
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.
Best Hotel in Bruch: Hotel Alpha Lucerne
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.
Best Hotel in Bruch: Garni Hotel Drei Konige
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.
Best Hotel in Bruch: Hotel Rothaus Lucerne
Bright and colourful, this is one of the best places to stay in Lucerne for hipsters and culture vultures. This three-star hotel is set in Bruch and allows for easy access to shops, bars, clubs and eateries. Rooms are clean and cosy and outfitted with a vast array of amenities.
#5 Oberseeburg – Where to Stay in Lucerne for Families
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.
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.
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.
- Enjoy a delicious lakeside meal at the Seahaus Grill.
- Fuel up before a game of tennis at Restaurant Davis Luzern.
- Indulge in great food, sweets and treats at Piccard.
- 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.
Best Airbnb in Oberseeburg: A home away from home
Enjoy mountain views from your back garden with this rustic family home. It’s only a short walk from the town centre and comes with a great kitchen for whipping up some home-cooked magic.
Best Hotel in Oberseeburg: Seeburg Swiss Quality Hotel
This delightful hotel is one of our 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.
Best Hotel in Oberseeburg: Seminarhotel Romerohaus
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.
Best Guesthouse in Oberseeburg: Villa Maria Lucerne
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.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Lucerne
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Lucerne and where to stay.
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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 our favourite accommodations.
Backpackers Lucerne is our favourite hostel because offers a range of rooms and excellent facilities, like a kitchen, common room and book exchange, all at a great price!
Another good option is the Altstadt Hotel Krone Apartments 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.
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