Switzerland is a fascinating place and a dream destination for many travelers around the world. With a distinct charm that echoes through the temperate climate, breathtaking scenery of mountains, and lovely villages - it is understandable why this country is on the bucket list of many. Lucerne is a small slice of this beautiful country, known for its medieval architecture and snow-capped Alps. Wander around the colorful Altstadt, also known as Old Town, and be transported back in time. This historic district is made up of narrow cobblestone alleys, quaint bridges, and ancient buildings. Another natural treasure is its namesake lake, Lake Lucerne, where you can paddle while marveling at the stunning surroundings, and there are plenty more things to do here. Fancy having these natural wonders as your aesthetic backdrop? Continue reading and find yourself a suitable stay in one of the best hotels with a view in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Popular spots in Lucerne:
Chapel Bridge and Water Tower: Said to be the continent’s oldest covered bridge, Lucern’s iconic Chapel Bridge spans across the River Reuss. The Water Tower rises out of the bridge and was used as a treasury and a prison. I would love to take some photos on the bridge!
Musegg Wall: Looking straight out of a fairy tale, these fortifications have withstood the test of time and impart a certain magical aura to Lucerne. You can walk along certain sections of the ramparts and enjoy amazing views.
Tip from tour guide
If you visit this city of light in October, you'll see the trees gradually turn golden and the mountains turn white in and around Lucerne. The temperature changes also create beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Lucerne is on the shores of the drinking water lake of the same name and is surrounded by beautiful mountains just 40 minutes from Zurich (or 3 hours from Milan)!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to views. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on August 20, 2024.
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1. Altstadt Hotel Magic Luzern (from USD 256)
Ornate fittings, regal furniture, and intricate woodwork tastefully adorn each classic room and suite in Altstadt Hotel Magic Luzern. Guests can choose a suite with a whirlpool bath for optimal relaxation. The Lion-Heart Suite has a private balcony overlooking the picturesque old town, while the King Suite commands views of the scenic landscapes. The themed rooms are suitable for Instagram-savvy guests, and I’ll definitely be taking some photos here!
Set in Lucerne’s Old Town quaint shopping district, this hotel oozes distinct bygone charm and timeless elegance. This refined hotel affords guests iconic lookouts of the town hall and the Reuss River.
Best rooms with views: Lionheart Suite (views of Kornmarkt and Brandgässli); Honeymoon Suite (views of Reuss River); Aladin Room (views of Kornmarkt); Angel Room (views of Brandgässli); Symphony Room (views of Brandgässli); Mystic Room (views of Kornmarkt); King Suite (views of Kornmarkt); Barock Suite (views of Brandgässli); Farmer Room (views of Brandgässli); Lotus Room (views of Kornmarkt); Pirate Room (views of Kornmarkt); Swiss Chalet Room (views of Brandgässli); Egypt Room (views of Kornmarkt and Brandgässli)
On-site locations to check out: Terrasse Krone (city views), Terrace des Balances (river views), Krone Restaurant (street views)
What guests are saying about the view:
“The location was excellent. Sitting in old town, right on the water and a few minute walk to the main train station. We had a beautiful view of the mountains.” - by Google reviewer, Heather Henry
2. Hotel des Balances (from USD 584)
Luxurious hotel with stunning views, central location, and exceptional service.
Spacious rooms, balcony with beautiful view, coffee machine, and attentive staff.
Perfectly situated in the heart of old town, close to train station and riverside.
Outstanding dining experiences, delicious breakfast, and surprise welcome drink.
Nothing compares to the idyllic location of Hotel des Balances, offering stunning views at every turn. The property nestles on a riverfront and houses 56 meticulously curated accommodations combining old-world and contemporary elements. Every room boasts a poetic spectacle, varying from the old town quarter to the Reuss River. The rooms seem to me like the perfect spots where you can unwind to some classical music.
The on-site restaurant breathes a romantic ambiance with ambient lighting, decorous chandeliers, and candlelights. It opens to a fancy terrace, where you can enjoy al fresco dining while admiring the unique mountain scenery.
Best rooms with views: All the rooms have views, but here are a few top picks: Double Room Old Town (city views); Superior Reuss (river views); Junior Suite (river and mountain views)
On-site locations to check out: Restaurant Balances (river views), restaurant terrace (river views)
Awards: On-site restaurant has 14 Gault&Millau points.
What guests are saying about the view:
“…we booked the Double room with river view and indeed we woke in the morning to an amazing view of the river and the mountains in the background.” - by Google reviewer, Thakur Sahab
Tip from tour guide
Take a three-minute walk from this property to the Jesuit Church of Lucerne, a symbol of Counter-Reform. It was the first church in the country built in the Baroque style. It is also home to one of the vestments of St. Niklaus from Flue, the patron saint of Switzerland. Unlike Zurich, Lucerne is a deeply Catholic canton because of money reasons.
3. AMERON Luzern Hotel Flora (from USD 484)
This 4-star hotel wears luxury on its sleeves. If you require a room with a private breathing space, the Premium Mountain View is the perfect choice. These rooms feature a balcony that gives uninterrupted views of the city skyline and partial views of the Pilatus mountain. I might just spend mornings lounging on the balcony if I were staying here.
This upscale property marries urban panache with the natural beauty of Switzerland and puts you just a few steps from theaters, museums, and the old town. Keep your workout routines on track in the up-to-date fitness center to stay fit while on vacation.
Best room with views: Premium Mountain View Room (views of Lucerne and a partial view of Mount Pilatus)
On-site locations to check out: Fitness center (city views)
What guests are saying about the view:
“The location (near train station and town) is superb! Hotel staff is exceedingly nice and helpful, and the room is clean and well appointed. Small balcony overlooks side street with views of Pilatus to the left and bridge to the right.” - by Google reviewer, Lee Young
Tip from tour guide
Mount Pilatus is only an 18-minute drive from this hotel. I recommend going to Esel, Oberhaupt and Tomlishorn for especially impressive views. You will see more breathtaking views of Switzerland too, from Säntis to the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, through the Jura and to the Black Forest and lakes, including those in the shape of a cross. These are symbolic because it was on these banks that the Swiss Confederation was born in 1291.
Joachim Vadian, to whom we owe the documents on climbing the mountain, was the first person to conquer Pilatus in 1518. He bequeathed his books to the city, making them the core of the current cantonal library of the famous St. Gallen Library.
4. Hotel Central Luzern (from USD 257)
Certain rooms in this hotel, including the Single Room Noble and Double Room Cosy, face the delightful town or the well-maintained inner courtyard. The Double Room Noble is also fitted with a balcony in case you want to step out to soak in some sunshine.
Convene with your friends to catch up in the bright shared lounge while sipping tea or coffee. The best part about staying here is that breakfast is included in the booking rates, served in a light-filled breakfast room with striking town views.
Best rooms with views: All the rooms have views, but here are a few top picks: Single Room Noble (city views); Double Room Cosy (view of the city or inner courtyard); Family Room Noble (views of the city and inner courtyard)
On-site locations to check out: Breakfast area (views of the city)
What guests are saying about the view:
“We got a fairly large room on the top floor in the attic with one master bed, one sofa bed and one queen bed. So it’s perfect for the five of us. Nice view from the attic area.” - by Dosgandos (Indonesia)
Hotel Central Luzern This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Lucerne Tour Guide
Iuliia Solodenko
Learned to read at the age of five. Loved fairy tales. For 11 years I studied the cello at the school that Oistrakh graduated from ( I am from Ukraine). My favorite lesson at school is history, it is my only passion. I dreamed to became an archaeologist, but I graduated from the acting faculty and worked as an actress in the theater. In 2008 I moved to Venice. Experience since 2011 in travel... Read more
5. Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern (from USD 798)
Luxurious hotel with attentive staff and exceptional service, though dining can be expensive.
Historic, grand hotel with spacious rooms, beautiful architecture, and a cozy atmosphere. Personalized service and thoughtful touches throughout the stay.
Perfectly situated in the heart of Luzern, offering stunning views of the lake and within walking distance to major attractions and transportation hubs.
Rich variety in breakfast, excellent dining options within the hotel, though dining out in Switzerland can be costly.
Marvel at the beauty of the city and its dramatic skyline at Hotel Central Luzern. Each room is individually designed to cater to every type of guest. The Luxury Suites are complete with a comfy living and dining room with a seating area, a soundproof window, and a writing desk.
Moreover, some suites are adjoined with a private balcony that serves as an enchanting vista of the old town or the sparkling lake. If you need some pampering, head to the posh spa with a gym and sauna and let your stress melt away.
Best rooms with views: All the rooms have views, but here are a few top picks: Lucerne Luxury Suite; Lifestyle Living Suite; Deluxe Double Room (views of Lake Lucerne and mountains)
On-site locations to check out: Sun terrace (views of Lake Lucerne)
Awards: Certified Swisstainable
Tip from tour guide
About a 40-minute drive from this hotel is Mount Rigi, which is known as the Queen of the Mountains. Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, loved Lucerne, the lake of four forest cantons and mountains. In 1837, he supposedly climbed the mountain and picked an alpine rose to dry and give to his wife. She always carried it with her.
In 1868, she spent five weeks in Lucerne and climbed Rigi. The trip did her good, resulting in the city becoming popular with the British. Victoria played a significant role in the development of the Swiss national tourism industry.
Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
6. Château Gütsch (from USD 532)
Luxury pricing with excellent value for the views and amenities offered.
Historic property with unique funicular access, beautiful bar and outdoor spaces.
Perched on a hill overlooking the stunning city of Lucerne and Lake Lucerne.
Delicious breakfast with plenty of choices, and a wonderful restaurant with breathtaking views.
Château Gütsch is a 19th-century castle with 37 stylish rooms to lodge you comfortably for a few days. This majestic hotel is a perfect place to stay if you want to take in spectacular panoramas of the town and Lake Lucerne, with limited sightings of Rigi Mountain.
You will find floral wallpapers and a marble bathroom in all rooms and suites, making the interior pleasing to the eyes. Specific Superior Rooms offer lake and forest views, so you will surely be spoilt for choice! Bicycle rentals are available if you want to explore the area.
Best rooms with views: Queen Victoria Suite; Turner Suite (views of Lucerne, Lake Lucerne and the mountains); Rachmaninoff Suite (views of Lucerne and Lake Lucerne); Superior Room With Lake View; Superior Room With Forest View; Superior Room Orangery With Forest View
On-site locations to check out: Restaurant Lumières, American Bar (city views), The Schlosspark (views of the mountains. lake, city, and forest)
What guests are saying about the view:
“I love this hotel. The view from our room is absolutely breathtaking. We can see the lake and the mountains from our window as well as from the outdoor dining table for breakfast.” - by Ashley Usita
7. Kurhotel Sonnmatt Luzern (from USD 480)
You can anticipate a complete wellness break in Kurhotel Sonnmatt Luzern. Here, you will get the best countryside scenery surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. Make yourself home in the south-facing rooms, providing tranquil lake or mountain views.
This spa hotel has all the makings for a healing vacation, boasting a sprawling wellness zone with a sauna, steam bath, heated pool, and fitness gym that guests can access. You can also spoil yourself with body and beauty treatments for ultimate self-care. I would love to try out the treatments available here! Indulge your sense of taste in the in-house dining venues presenting freshly prepared seasonal cuisine.
Best rooms with views: All rooms have views, but here are a few top picks: Standard Double Room with Lake View - Annex; Panorama Double Room (views of mountains and garden); Suite with Balcony (lake and mountain views)
On-site locations to check out: Restaurant Pilatus (views of the woods and mountains), Panorama Restaurant (views of the mountains and Lake Lucerne)
What guests are saying about the view:
“If you want breathtaking views of the Alps, away from throngs of tourists, lake views, the best restaurant book here.” - by Gary (USA)
Tip from tour guide
Since this property is only about a 30-minute drive from Mount Pilatus, you can easily indulge in Swiss summer entertainment, including tobogganing at the foot of the mountain. Or, take a cable car ride and admire the views of the Vierwaldstättersee and the Alps. If you don't go up, just relax on the lush grass.
8. Boutique Hotel KARL (from USD 366)
Seeking a high-class retreat with breathtaking views? Look no further than this listing! This hotel is strategically situated between Reuss River and Musegg Wall Lucerne, so you can feast your eyes on the fascinating mountain, lake, and landmark panoramas.
The double and triple rooms will not disappoint you if you fancy natural vistas. Select units also come equipped with a private balcony to breathe fresh air and wind down.
Additionally, a complimentary buffet-style breakfast is available daily to replenish your energy.
Best rooms with views: Double room with balcony; Superior Double Room; 3 bed room with balcony; Superior 3 bed room; 4 bed room; Superior 4 bed room; Family multi-bed room (river views)
What guests are saying about the view:
“From the moment I stepped into the room with a balcony, I was captivated by the breathtaking view overlooking the Reuss River and the majestic Pilatus Mountain.” - by Google reviewer, Stefan H Ulrich
9. Hotel Schlüssel (from USD 393)
Carrying a storied past that can be traced back to 1545, this boutique hotel is the smallest of its kind in the city. Although it is small and compact on the outside, you will realize it has enough space inside to move around comfortably.
In this hotel, you can book the Superior Double Room to wake up to panoramic views of the old square. The train station and ferry terminal are nearby, making this property an ideal base for traveling leisurely.
Best rooms with views: Double Room (views of Burgerstrasse); Deluxe Double Room (views of Franziskanerplatz and the Franciscan church)
What guests are saying about the view:
“We loved the balcony and view overlooking the square. Also loved the ease of walking down to the waterfront” - by Google reviewer, Caren (USA)
10. Art Deco Hotel Montana (from USD 413)
Art Deco design characterizes this glamorous hotel in Lucerne. Art Deco Hotel Montana nestles on a hillside location, and the unparalleled views over Lake Lucerne are the property’s cherry on top! The hotel bagged the Hotel of the Year award back-to-back in 2018 and 2019, which speaks so much of its top-notch grandeur.
Each lakeside room has a private balcony, so you can enjoy the scenes of nature without leaving your room’s premises. While relishing the delectable Mediterranean cuisine, you can also satisfy your eyes with the views over Lake Lucerne and the mountains.
Best rooms with views: Most of the rooms have views; but here are a few top picks: Penthouse Spa Suite Lakeside (views of Rigi Mountain and the lake); Signature Penthouse Spa Suite Lakeside (views of the mountains, city, and lake); Deluxe Room Lakeside (views of the mountains, city, and lake)
On-site locations to check out: Scala Restaurant & Terrace, Hemingway Rum Lounge, Beach Club (views of the city, lake, mountains, and forest)
Awards: Swiss Bar Award - Best Longseller Bar (2011 & 2012), Swiss Bar Award - Best Bar Menu (2014), SonntagsZeitung - Switzerland’s Hotel of the Year (2018/19)
Tip from tour guide
Videos:
Less than a 30-minute drive from this hotel is Mount Pilatus, a symbol of central Switzerland. The body of the Roman procurator Pontius Pilate supposedly found peace in a mountain lake at an altitude of 1,500 m (4,921.2 ft), and it was strictly forbidden to climb the mountain to avoid disturbing him until the 16th century. In 1420, it is believed that that Dragon Rock fell from the sky and that the mountain was once inhabited by miniature (judging by the size of the dragon trail) good dragons. Legends also say that a petrified man stands at the cave entrance.
Mount Pilatus, towering over the region and reaching 2,128 m (6,981.6 ft), always attracts attention and awakens the imagination. If you visit before October ends, you can ride the steepest mountain road in the world here!
Art Deco Hotel Montana
Address: Adligenswilerstrasse 22
A luminous stay in Lucerne
A luminous stay awaits in Lucerne. With its enchanting beauty, you can surely treat your eyes to great wonders wherever you look. Stop worrying about where to stay in Lucerne and gear up for the best vacation experience by booking a room in one of the best hotels with views from the list above.
Tip from tour guide
Few people have even heard of Swiss wines. Since Italy and France, whose wine fame resounds far beyond their borders, are neighbors of Switzerland, this is no surprise. But the Swiss produce wine here in sufficient quantities. Only very little is exported (only two percent of the total production). Try it during your visit to the pioneer of winemaking in the canton of Lucerne and learn about local wine while admiring the view of Bürgenstock.
History
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