Lake Lucerne
Vierwaldstättersee
Switzerland's fourth-largest lake, ringed by the shores of four 'Forest Cantons'. Steamboats link Pilatus, Rigi and the legendary sites of William Tell.
Lake Lucerne covers about 114 square km and is cross-shaped. It is surrounded by the cantons of Lucerne, Schwyz, Uri, and Nidwalden and Obwalden. In 1291, the Swiss Confederation was founded with an oath sworn on the Rütli meadow on the lakeshore, which is regarded as the cradle of Switzerland. The SGV company operates 20 ships on the lake, five of which are century-old paddle steamers, and sailing on them is the best way to experience Lake Lucerne.
Recommended routes: Lucerne–Weggis–Vitznau (1 hour, connecting with the Rigi cogwheel train); Lucerne–Alpnachstad (1.5 hours, connecting with the Pilatus cogwheel train); and the full Lucerne–Flüelen route (about 3 hours, passing Rütli and the William Tell Chapel). With a Swiss Travel Pass, boat travel is free, though first class requires a supplement. Single fares range from about CHF 20 to 60. The pier is directly opposite Lucerne railway station.
Consider combining the trip with the Golden Round Trip or a Rigi day tour, or simply take a one-hour lake loop.
Note: on clear days the deck is windy, so bring a jacket. Check the official website for steamboat timetables.
Opening hours
Boat tours approx. 8:00–19:00 (varies by season)
Nearby sights
- Bürgenstock & Hammetschwand Lift
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Richard Wagner Museum Tribschen
- Mount Rigi
- KKL Luzern & Kunstmuseum
- Church of St. Leodegar (Hofkirche)
- Lucerne Lakeside Promenade (Nationalquai)
- Bourbaki Panorama