We are bound for Lucerne (Luzern) next, so we took a flight from Stockholm to Zurich via the now-defunct Air Berlin. It’s a pity to see this Airline goes bust as I like their service standards. This was also the first of my many subsequent visits to Zurich and this efficient Swiss transport hub has been one of my favourites. Zurich Airport train station is conveniently located with direct trains connecting it to Lucerne. Hence, it’s really easy to reach the scenic Lucerne in just over an hour ride. As the saying goes, everything runs like clockwork in Switzerland.

Upon check-in and it’s time to visit Lucerne Old Town. Its small squares and those beautiful fountains are great places to wander around. More so when the surrounding buildings are painted in bright cheery colours. And the Swiss Chocolate brand, Laderach, which I have never failed to visit whenever I am in Switzerland.

Hofkirche St. Leodegar is an important church not far away from the Old Town.

Just up the road from Hofkirche St. Leodegar is the Lion Monument depicting a dying lion. It’s a notable landmark that commemorates the Swiss Guards who died during the 1792’s French Revolution.

The Chapel Bridge

The covered wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrucke) that spans diagonally across Reuss River is the symbol of Lucerne. There are also many triangular-framed old paintings hanging on the roof and support beams. The water tower next to it adds up to its historical charms. This setting of a picturesque lake with snow-capped mountains as backdrops exudes a magical ambiance.

There are other footbridges like Rathaussteg, Reuss Bridge (Reussbrucke) and Spreuer Bridge (Spreuerbrucke) further down the river. In which, Spreuer Bridge is an older covered wooden bridge as compared to the more well-known Chapel Bridge.

And the charm just doubles up when night falls, at least to me, with the lights reflecting on Reuss River.

The dinner was a wonderful one at La Barca, which has a wonderful view of the riverside. In summary, good food, good view but pricey.

STAY: Hotel Monopol Lucerne

The location of Hotel Monopol Lucerne is excellent, being right next to the main train station and within short walking distance to the old town. It’s an old building and perhaps the dated interior could use a refurbish or upgrade soon. The large room is very comfortable and the friendly staff is a plus.

Our room has a great view from the open windows, amid the road noise since there is no air conditioning. I would probably stay here again but definitely not during the Summer.