Restaurants and cafés
Try out local specialities or international cuisine in the region’s welcoming restaurants and cafés. From hearty alpine dishes to sophisticated top-class dining, there is something to discover for every palate.
Lucerne’s culinary scene offers genuine delights for all the senses. Whether you want a traditional Swiss meal in a cosy restaurant or to experience innovative cuisine in a modern eatery – the canton of Lucerne has everything your heart desires. Local Lucerne cuisine features regional produce and traditional recipes. Traditional specialities include rösti potatoes, “Chügelipastete” puff pastry and Älplermagronen pasta. You can feast on delicious food in countless inviting restaurants and cafés. And you’ll find fresh local produce for your own cooking ventures at the numerous markets all over the canton.
Going out
Fancy a memorable night out? The city of Lucerne is the heart of Central Switzerland’s night-life. It offers a wide range of bars, clubs and entertainment venues. Whether you want to chill out in a lakeside bar or dance until the early hours, Lucerne has lots to offer: You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to having an all-nighter in Lucerne.
Bar-hopping in the city centre
Lucerne’s historic old town is known for its snug bars and pubs. Visit one of the many bars on the banks of the Reuss and enjoy the scenic view with a cool drink.
Clubbing in Lucerne
For anyone keen on hitting the dancefloor well into the night, Lucerne has its fair share of clubs and discos. Music ranging from techno to house and hip-hop to rock is served up, and the clubs are renowned for their high-energy parties.
An evening at the casino
Lucerne is home to one of the largest casinos in Switzerland. Try your luck or enjoy an evening in one of the casinos’ restaurants or their own clubs. You and your friends are guaranteed a top night of entertainment.
Celebrate life
The canton of Lucerne is heaven for festival fans. All year round, festivals to suit all tastes are held across the canton, from classical concerts to traditional and large folk festivals.
The Lucerne Tourism website offers a good guide:
Here are some of the best-known festivals:
Lucerne City Festival:
The Lucerne City Festival is an annual highlight, transforming Lucerne’s historical centre into a lively festival scene. It features concerts, culinary highlights, street theatre and activities for the whole family.
Fumetto International Comix Festival:
Are you a comic fan? If so, you can’t afford to miss the Fumetto Festival. It has exhibitions, workshops, discussion events and readings all about comics and graphic novels.
Lucerne Festival:
This classical music festival is a world-class international event. It attracts the finest orchestras and soloists from around the globe and brings you a series of concerts at various venues in Lucerne. The largest concerts are held in the famous concert hall of the KKL – known as one of the best venues for classical concerts anywhere in the world.
Pilatus on the Rocks:
This music festival takes place atop Lucerne’s own mountain, Mount Pilatus. Enjoy live music by exciting artists at a height of 2,000 metres, with breathtaking views.
Lucerne Autumn Fair:
The Lucerne Autumn Fair, known locally as the “Määs”, is a traditional festival with fairground rides, market stands, live music and culinary specialities. The Määs is especially popular with families.
Lilu Light Festival Lucerne:
The Lilu Light Festival Lucerne features artists from around the world presenting the multifaceted and fascinating aspects of light. Enjoy a heart-warming winter walk amid the amazing creative light installations, alongside an attractive programme of events for all the senses. Every day for eleven days, the sights and alleyways of the city of Lucerne will be lit up in artistic style.
«Lucerne is a beautiful, family-friendly city. It has lots of amazing festivals and offers a good balance to my work. I feel at home here.»
