Upon check-in and itâ€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. Itâ€s a notable landmark that commemorates the Swiss Guards who died during the 1792â€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. Itâ€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.

[alert]

What are your thoughts about Lucerne? Leave a comment and share it with me.

[/alert]

I opted for Arlanda Express from Stockholm Arlanda Airport to the city center because it’s the quickest way. The train platform is right underneath the arrival terminals and our tickets were booked online in advance.

Our accommodation was Hotel C Stockholm and itâ€s within walking distance from Stockholm Central Station. It’s also the same place to board Arlanda Express. Itâ€s near to the lively Hotorget Market or Haymarket Square which turns into a flea market on Sundays. This open-air market sells fresh produce like fruits and vegetables on normal days. It’s a popular meeting place for the locals as well.

The Medieval Old Town of Stockholm

Gamla Stan (Old Town) of Stockholm is formed by islands of Stadsholmeml, Riddarholmen, Stromsborg, and Helgeandsholmen. There are many important buildings in this small neighbourhood. First of all, The Royal Palace of Stockholm where the Swedish monarchy resides. The Swedish Parliament Building where nationâ€s interests are being discussed by the Governing body.

Then there’s Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) where Royal weddings are held. And last but not least, Riddarholmen Church (Riddarholmskyrkan) being the final resting place for Swedish monarchs.

I certainly think that the best way to explore Gamla Stan is to wander around its cobbled streets and alleys.

Sundbergs Konditori is one great place to rest the tired legs. And it also happens to be Stockholmâ€s oldest bakery-café. The narrowest alley (Marten Trotzig Grand) in Gamla Stan is very near to the bakery-cafe too.

The ‘Number 81’ entrance to Marten Trotzig Grand from VasterlÃ¥nggatan side will be hard to miss. Else just locate Jarntorget Cafe which is right next to it.

Among the narrow streets of Gamla Stan are beautiful buildings which kept me busy with a second or third look. It can get a little touristy but the grandeur of this medieval Old Town makes it worthwhile to be here.

Ice Bar by Ice Hotel Stockholm

Icebar by IceHotel is situated within Hotel C Stockholm where we are staying. So, why not? Needless to say, the theme is ice and almost everything inside is made from ice. The temperature of this unique and somewhat gimmicky bar is kept at -7 Degree Celsius. It’s freezing cold! The good thing is that warm coats and gloves are provided. But the bad is perhaps the pricey entrance fee (for 45 minutes†stay) and the rather small area.

Nevertheless, itâ€s still a ‘cool†and fun experience for us. And I love the chunky ice glasses!

STAY: Hotel C Stockholm

Hotel C Stockholm is conveniently located right outside the Arlanda Express station. The modern décor and friendly staffs are added plus points. Moreover, it’s a great place to stay with decent sized room and a very comfortable bed. I will not hesitate to book this hotel again if I am back in Stockholm.

[alert]

What are your thoughts about Gamla Stan? Leave a comment and share it with me.

[/alert]