UPDATED MAR 2020. Lucerne is a great destination for a beginner solo traveler. It’s clean, easy to get around, English is commonly spoken, and there is a lot to do. Did I mention it’s also GORGEOUS!! Here’s my guide on solo female travel in Lucerne with everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Solo Female Travel In Lucerne And How To Spend A Weekend There
Disclaimer
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FAQ solo female travel in Lucerne
What language is spoken?
Switzerland has four official languages and English is widely spoken.
What currency is used?
Swiss Frank (CHF).
What is the best way to get to Lucerne?
Use Luzern station for train travel and for air travel connect through a bigger city like Zurich or Bern.
What is the best way to get around Lucerne?
Public transport is efficient and easy to use and it’s easy to walk around the city as well.
Is there a dress code for female travelers?
No specific dress code.
Do you have a hotel recommendation?
I stayed at The Grand Hotel National and it was fantastic.
What’s the difference between Lucerne and Luzern?
‘Lucerne’ is the English spelling of ‘Luzern’. While you are researching for your trip these two words are interchangeable.
Things to do in Lucerne
Explore the Alps
I explored Mount Titlis and Mount Pilatus and they were two of the most incredible adventures of my life.
The views at the summits of these mountains left me speechless. It was like seeing something out of a Nat Geo Magazine or something.
Both are easy to get to using public transport and I recommend purchasing a two day pass from the information desk at the train station.
This will cover all of your transport costs to get to the top, even the cable cars, and save you a lot of money.
For more information, here’s my guide on how to get to Mt Titlis and Pilatus from Lucerne.
Visit the Sleeping Lion Monument
Mark Twain described this monument as ‘the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world.’ These words replayed in my head as I stood in awe in front of this grand sculpture.
The monument was created between 1820-21 as a tribute to soldiers who had died protecting the royal family after the Tuileries castle had been attacked.
The lion looks quite small in pictures but I was surprised at the large size of it in real life. You can see the impressive details carved in the sandstone.
The majestic lion lays with his shields and weapons, dying from his wounds, with names of some of the fallen engraved below him.
In his resting place, he watches over a peaceful place of reflection. A pond surrounded by plants and park benches and plenty of tourists looking up at the striking carving.
It’s easy to walk to and you can use ‘Sleeping Lion Monument Lucerne’ or ‘Löwendenkmal’ in Google Maps to get there.
You can’t miss the famous Chapel Bridge
There are multiple bridges in Lucerne, but this one stands out among the others and oozes a certain sense of charm. It’s almost as if you get the feeling that it’s something special just by looking at it.
And special it is.
The Chapel Bridge is the world’s oldest covered wooden bridge that dates all the way back to 1332.
After taking your photo souvenirs of the ever-photogenic bridge, you can also walk along it.
As you do, don’t forget to look up at the interesting art above in some areas of the bridge.
Walk around Lake Lucerne
The Lake Lucerne area is a wonderfully relaxing place to spend some time.
In my little head, I referred to the lake as Swan Lake because of the sheer volume of elegant swans that called the lake home. They, along with ducks and other birds, decorated the glistening water like sweet buttercream on a fresh cake.
The swans really were a highlight for me and walking past them every morning and night was a real treat.
Following the path along the lake, you will find benches, people playing outdoor games, and no shortage of impressive views.
Where to eat in Lucerne
Of course, I think you have to go to a fondue restaurant during your trip to Lucerne.
However, even though it is a cool experience, to be honest, as a solo traveler it was also kind of anti-climactic.
It’s almost an experience that is not as welcoming for the solo traveler. Instead, the pot of cheese that’s typically a sharing dish kind of reminds you of your forever alone moniker.
I also dined at a wonderful local restaurant at the Hotel Wilden Mann and was able to enjoy a three-course meal in an intimate, cozy setting that seemed to host many solo travelers.
My dinner included mouthwatering dishes of deer, lobster, fresh bread, and even a dessert of chestnut puree and meringue.
I have to say, this place is a treasure, and being able to relax and dine at this restaurant was truly the perfect way to end a long day exploring the mountain peaks.
Where to stay in Lucerne as a solo female traveler
During my stay, I was a guest at the Grand Hotel National in Lucerne.
I value location highly as a solo traveler because I don’t want to be walking long distances or in shady areas at night or spending a lot on taxi fares. The location of this the Grand National Hotel was perfect for me because the train station and main sights were only 10 minutes away.
The hotel sits directly in front of Lake Lucerne which not only allowed me magnificent lake views from my room, it also was the perfect way to start each day of exploring because I could walk along the grand lake and greet the swans.
If it’s not your style, I recommend searching on Booking.com for a hotel or guesthouse. This is what I use to book accommodation for trips and I can usually find a good deal through their site.
For more information, here’s my full guide on where to stay in Lucerne.
Lucerne is a great option for beginners because the city has a charm that will have you falling in love with it, there’s a lot to see and do, and it’s easy and safe to get around.
I hope this guide can help you plan your visit!
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I love Switzerland, Lucern particularly. But I’m disappointed I never tried deer! What was it like?? I love. Geese fondue but can see how it would be difficult for a solo traveller. Lovely pics too
Ha ha that should be CHEESE fondue!!😂
It was really nice, kind of like rich ham. Haha cheese fondue makes more sense! Thank you so much!
I hope to enjoy the Swiss Alps myself one day. Thank you for the post!
I hope you get there too, it’s so beautiful!
Saving this for my next trip to Switzerland!
Yay! Hope it helps <3
Amazing, I love Lucerne – beautiful photos <3
Thank you so much!