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Lucerne, Switzerland
Lucerne may be Switzerland's most picture-perfect city, and its compact center is a pure joy to walk. The Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden covered bridge adorned with painted panels, is the city's most famous landmark. The old town on the north bank features cobbled squares with painted facades, the Jesuit Church, and the Musegg Wall — a remarkably intact medieval fortification whose nine towers you can climb for free panoramic views. The south bank is anchored by the KKL Culture and Convention Centre, designed by Jean Nouvel, and the Swiss Transport Museum. Lake Lucerne itself is surrounded by mountains, and the lakeside promenades offer constant views of Pilatus and Rigi. The Lion Monument, carved into a sandstone cliff, is one of Switzerland's most moving memorials.
explore by interest
The old town is tiny — you can walk it in an hour, so slow down and explore the side streets and courtyards that most visitors miss while rushing between the bridge and the lion.
May through October offers clear skies for Alpine views, with summer bringing warm lake weather and the Lucerne Festival in August.