Nestled on the shores of one of Switzerland’s most famous lakes and surrounded by soaring snowcapped mountains and rolling hills, Lucerne and the region of Lake Lucerne offer travellers an exceptional variety of festive cultural experiences and outdoor winter adventures.

City of History, Wellness and Culture

Located little more than one hour by efficient Swiss train from Zurich International Airport, Lucerne is a walkable city of lakeside promenades and wonderfully preserved medieval structures, including the famous Kapellbrücke or Chapel Bridge. The iconic 14th-century reconstructed bridge and its imposing octagonal Wasserturm (water tower) are among Switzerland’s most photographed sights.

Lucerne’s closeness to spectacular Lake Lucerne means that a panoramic boat tour of the lake and lakeside villages is a must do, even in winter. Enjoy the scenic sights on a half-day excursion or use it as a marine transfer to Mt. Rigi, the “Queen of the Mountains.”

Enjoy the ascent on Europe’s first mountain railway (opened in 1871) in modern carriages with panoramic glazing. A winter playground awaits on the mountain with snowshoe hikes, toboggan rides and spectacular baths in the Rigi cold baths designed by Mario Botta with views of Lake Lucerne and the Central Alps.

Celebrate the Holidays with Lucerne Festivals

From sparkling illuminations to glittering lakeside ice rinks and mountain-top Christmas markets, Lucerne is a festive and enchanting winter destination during the holidays.

Lucerne Christmas Markets (December 5–23, 2024)
Wander under twinkling lights and a giant illuminated Advent wreath in the Old Town during the Lucerne Christmas Market. Explore culinary delights and charming “gschänkli-poschte” (gift shops) at Rudolph’s Christmas Spectacle or take a thrilling gondola ride up the slope of Mount Pilatus to find unique handmade gifts at the highest Christmas market in Europe.

Ice Magic Lucerne (On until January 2, 2025)
Work off the holiday cheese fondue with a turn or two around the Ice Magic rink on Europaplatz. Skate with picturesque views overlooking Lake Lucerne near the Jean Nouvel–designed KKL Luzern Culture and Convention Centre.

Lilu Light Festival Lucerne (January 9–19, 2025)
Be enchanted by stunningly creative light installations by artists from all over the world. The immersive winter experience of the Lilu Light Festival Lucerne illuminates the alleys, sights and squares of the city.

Lucerne Carnival (February 27–March 4, 2025)
“Fasnacht” is Lucerne’s biggest festival of the year, filling city streets with joyous revellers in elaborate costumes and giant masks, parades of beautiful floats, accompanied by booming, boisterous music from brass bands (guggemusig).