Lucerne is possibly one of the prettiest cities I’ve ever been to.
The fairy tale combination of its charming old town, majestic mountains and alpine lakes come together to bring you this enchanting city.
Lucerne is incredible for MANY reasons but the one that holds my heart the most is… it’s chocolate! It represents the chocolate of Switzerland like no other city does. Creamy and delectable – mmmm, mmmm.
But a trip to Lucerne doesn’t come cheap and accommodations that don’t break the bank can be hard to come by.
I’m here to help you find the best place to stay in Lucerne for YOU and your travel desires. Whether you’re up for splashing some cash on a slice of luxury or you just want the cheapest bed in town, I’ve got you covered
Let’s jump right to it.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Altstadt (Old Town)
Altstadt is, without a doubt, our top choice for where to stay in Lucerne for your first time. It is the historic heart of Lucerne and is conveniently located at the centre of the city.
Tribschen
Tribschen is a large district located south of the city centre. Once Lucerne’s red light district, Tribschen has undergone a renaissance in recent years.
Neustadt (New Town)
Neustadt is a lively and vibrant neighbourhood located in central Lucerne. It sits across the river from the Old Town and offers a nice alternative to the winding cobblestone streets and history of the Altstadt.
Bruch
The up-and-coming Bruch neighbourhood is the coolest place to stay in Lucerne. Once home to the city’s cattle market, Bruch is now a gathering place for Lucerne’s hip, trendy and oh-so-cool populations.
Oberseeburg
The Oberseeburg district is located in eastern Lucerne. It is a typical family and residential neighbourhood that has an awesome variety of activities and attractions for travellers of all ages, from the Swiss Transport Museum to indoor clay tennis courts.
Lucerne’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Lucerne is a small and beautiful city set in the heart of Switzerland, beloved by tourists. It is best known as the gateway to Central Switzerland and sits surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
Its historic town centre bursts with history and charm and offers plenty of things to see and do for visitors. It’s a MUST when travelling in Switzerland.
Still not sure where to stay in Lucerne? Don’t worry because, in this next section, I’ll break down each neighbourhood for you in detail.
1. Altstadt (Old Town) – Where to Stay in Lucerne for Your First Time
Altstadt is the historic heart of Lucerne and is conveniently located at the centre of the city. Packed with ancient landmarks and legendary sights, this neighbourhood is ideal for history buffs and culture vultures who are keen to check things off their bucket list.
This neighbourhood is also home to Kapellbrucke, Lucerne’s iconic covered bridge.
Spanning more than 200 meters across the River Reuss, Kapellbrucke, or the Chapel Bridge, is the oldest covered bridge in Europe and the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge.
- Best For: First timers, sightseeing, photography, convenience
- The Vibe: Historic, lively, charming
- Proximity to Airport: 45–60 minutes from Zurich Airport (ZRH) by train
- Transport Level: Easy, walking is the main way to get around
- Budget: Mid range to luxury, this is the top tourist center
- Crowds: High – the most visited part of Lucerne
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Altstadt
- Browse the exhibits at the Glacier Garden.
- Cross the Kapellbrucke (the Chapel Bridge), the oldest covered bridge in Europe.
- Explore the shops of the Kornmarkt.
- Marvel at the stunning Rathaus (Town Hall).
- Take a stroll through Muhlenplatz, one of Lucerne’s best city squares.
- Join a private laking tour of Lucerne, and explore popular highlights and hidden gems.
- Visit the nearby Lion of Lucerne rock carving.
Best Hotel in Altstadt: Swiss Dewa
This epic budget hotel is one of the cheapest options in Lucerne. Featuring double beds with room service and an on site restaurant and bar, it’s the perfect blend of amenities and wallet-friendly prices. Set in Altstadt, this hotel is conveniently located for sightseeing.
Best Hostel in Altstadt: Barabas Luzern
Barabas Luzern is located at the heart of Old Town and is close to popular tourist attractions, bars, restaurants, cafes and shops. This is Switzerland’s first jailhouse hostel and it provides comfortable beds with an air of mystery.
Best Apartment in Altstadt: Historic Old Town Loft
Nestled into the heart of the old town of Lucerne, this studio at Hirschenplatz is perfectly located for exploring on foot. You’ll also get to use a fully equipped kitchen and coffee machine, and many other modern amenities. The unit is set in a historical home, but was recently renovated!
2. Tribschen – Best Place to Stay in Lucerne on a Budget
Once Lucerne’s red light district, Tribschen has undergone a renaissance in recent years. Gone are the gritty rundown buildings and in their place are new apartment blocks and thriving businesses giving this lakeside area a quiet and intimate vibe.
Here you can enjoy a selection of cosy cafes or take a stroll through one of the district’s lush green spaces.
This neighbourhood has a good selection of hostels and affordable hotels that will help you stay on a budget while you travel the city.
- Best For: Budget travelers, lakeside lovers, couples
- The Vibe: Peaceful, scenic, residential
- Proximity to Airport: About 1 hour from Zurich Airport (ZRH) by train or train + bus
- Transport Level: Easy for walking and cycling, buses connect it to the city center
- Budget: Mid range, with some good backpacker options
- Crowds: Low to medium
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Tribschen
- Delve deep into the life of the world-renowned composer at the Richard Wagner Museum.
- Go for a spin around the rink at Eiszentrum Luzern.
- Relax on the sand or head out for a swim at Ufschotti Park.
- Take a stroll through Inseli Park.
- Go on a tour of Mt. Pilatus Cable Car, Cogwheel Train & Lake Cruise.
Best Hotel in Tribschen: ibis Budget Hotel
This spectacular budget hotel is nestled right into the heart of Lucerne, right by the train station. Rooms are spacious and colorful, and a daily buffet breakfast in provided. This apartment is a short walk from Old Town, which means there are lots of things to do within walking distance.
Best Hostel in Tribschen: Backpackers Lucerne
This is my favourite hostel in town because it offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It provides a range of accommodation options, including private, semi-private and dorm-style rooms. Guests also have access to a common room, self-catering facilities, hot showers and a book exchange.
Best Airbnb in Tribschen: Simple and Most Central
A cosy, simple room in a centrally located apartment block. This is a great choice for those looking to keep prices down in one of Europe’s most expensive countries. There’s a lot to explore nearby, including a small kitchenette for home cooking.
3. Neustadt (New Town) – Best Area to Stay in Lucerne For Nightlife
Neustadt is a haven for young people, here you’ll find an excellent blend of shops and boutiques, as well as galleries, restaurants, cafes and cinemas.
There’s also an awesome selection of bars and clubs that will suit travellers of all ages and styles. So whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy a riverside glass of wine, Neustadt has exactly what you’re looking for and so much more!
- Best For: Nightlife lovers, foodies, shoppers
- The Vibe: Trendy, lively, local
- Proximity to Airport: 45–60 minutes from Zurich Airport by direct train
- Transport Level: Very easy, super walkable with the train station right there
- Budget: Mid-range, with a variety of options
- Crowds: Medium to high, but less packed than Altstadt
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Neustadt
- Chill out at Vögeligärtli Park.
- Explore Hirschmattstrasse, a vibey street full of small shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars.
- Explore the architecture and history of Neustadt on a walking tour that takes you through Vögeligärtli, Hirschmattstrasse, and Helvetiagärtli.
- Check out Neubad, an old swimming pool turned cultural hub that hosts dance and theatre performances, concerts, and other arty events.
Best Hotel in Neustadt: Hotel Alpina Luzern
Nearby you’ll find a great selection of eateries and bistros, as well as bars, cafes and clubs. Rooms are cosy, comfortable and well-outfitted with modern amenities. This hotel also boasts a terrace, a bar, and a delicious in-house restaurant.
Best Hostel in Neustadt: Capsule Hotel Lucerne
This futuristic stay provides travellers with personal pods in air-conditioned rooms. You’ll enjoy free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and a modern shared bathroom. Plus, it’s situated in the best neighbourhood in Lucerne to stay in for nightlife and dining.
Best Airbnb in Neustadt: Stylish, Bright Apartment
This 2 bedroom private apartment is in an ideal location for you if you’re looking to make the most of the local cafe and restaurant culture. It’s only a short way from the lakeside and the city centre.
4. Bruch – Coolest Place to Stay in Lucerne
The up-and-coming Bruch neighbourhood is the coolest place to stay in Lucerne. Once home to the city’s cattle market, Bruch is now a gathering place for Lucerne’s hip, trendy and oh-so-cool populations.
This cosy neighbourhood is home to a vast array of cafes and boutiques, as well as hip bars, trendy restaurants and imaginative high-end boutiques.
One of Bruch’s most famous attractions is the chic and stylish Madeleine. This bar/club/cultural venue regularly hosts concerts and comedy specials, making it an excellent destination any night of the week.
- Best For: Local life, cafe hopping, boutique lovers
- The Vibe: Artsy, multicultural, and residential
- Proximity to Airport: 50–65 minutes from Zurich Airport by train
- Transport Level: Good, walkable with direct buses to the city center
- Budget: Budget to mid-range
- Crowds: Low to medium, mostly locals
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Bruch
- Browse the exhibits at the Historisches Museum Kanton Luzern.
- Shop for handmade suspenders at Treger.
Best Hotel in Bruch: Garni Hotel Drei Konige
This three-star hotel is conveniently located in Bruch. It is a short stroll from popular tourist landmarks as well as hip eateries and trendy clubs. This cosy hotel has 50 modern rooms that come complete with a great range of accessories. There’s also a delicious restaurant and stylish bar on-site.
Best Budget Hotel in Bruch: Hotel Alpha Lucerne
The Hotel Alpha is your best bet for budget accommodations in Bruch. Rooms are bright, airy and modern, and offer spacious rooms and spotless beds. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants and tourist attractions nearby.
Best Airbnb in Bruch: Idyllic Baroque Cottage
Bask in the charming culture and romantic atmosphere of the region from this beautiful period property. It’s got a serene beauty, inside and out, and doesn’t skim on any of the amenities you need to make your stay as convenient as possible.
5. Oberseeburg – Best Neighbourhood in Lucerne for Families to Stay In
Oberseeburg is a typical family and residential neighbourhood that has an awesome variety of activities and attractions for travellers of all ages, from the Swiss Transport Museum to indoor clay tennis courts.
One of Oberseeburg’s top draws is the incredible Lucerne Lido. Stretching more than 300 meters along the shores of Lake Lucerne, this sandy beach is a great place to rest, relax and soak up a few rays.
It has a nice walking path, a fun playground, and there’s even a heated pool nearby for swimmers who find the lake a little too cold for a swim.
- Best For: Families, nature lovers, peace seekers
- The Vibe: Peaceful, scenic, and upscale residential
- Proximity to Airport: 1 hour from Zurich Airport by train and bus
- Transport Level: Good, walkable with direct buses to the city center
- Budget: Mid-range to upscale, many lakeside resorts
- Crowds: Low, calmer than central areas
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Oberseeburg
- Delve deep into the history of road-, rail-, water-, and air-borne mobility at the Swiss Museum of Transportation.
- See works of art by a Swiss great at the Hans Erni Museum.
- Go for a lakeside stroll along General Guisan-Quai.
- Spend a peaceful afternoon playing in Hundefreilaufwiese Park.
- Admire the architecture and design of the Musikpavillon am Nationalquai.
- Step into a world of wonder at the Puppenhausmuseum.
- Splash swim and play at Lucerne’s Lido.
Best Hotel in Oberseeburg: Seeburg Swiss Quality Hotel
This delightful hotel has comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. You’ll also get to enjoy stunning lake and mountain views from their spacious rooms. Guests can also enjoy a range of activities, like bowling, darts or miniature golf.
Best Budget Hotel in Oberseeburg: Seminarhotel Romerohaus
Perhaps the cheapest option in the neighborhood, you will have to share a bathroom but your room is private! It’s also in close proximity to the Lucerne Lido and the Swiss Museum of Transport is a short walk away.
Best Airbnb in Oberseeburg: Historic House
This historic, rustic family home is only a short walk from the town centre and comes with a great kitchen for whipping up some home-cooked magic. Surrounded by greenery and just a 15-minute walk from the Lakefront, you’ll be surrounded by nature!
Questions People Usually Ask Me…
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Lucerne
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Lucerne.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Ready for Lucerne?
Lucerne is a wonderful city with so much to offer travellers. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its inventive cuisine and lively nightlife, Switzerland’s seventh-largest city truly has something for travellers of all ages and interests.
If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of my favourite places to stay.
Backpackers Lucerne is my favourite hostel because it offers a range of rooms and excellent facilities, like a kitchen, common room and book exchange, all at a BANGIN’ price!
Another good option is the Swiss Dewa. This affordable hotel is conveniently located in Lucerne’s Old Town and is a quick walk to an incredible selection of restaurants, shops and the city’s most famous tourist attractions.
