Lucerne, Switzerland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lucerne, Switzerland? If you're planning to go to Lucerne, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lucerne, Switzerland

Based on the climate and weather in Lucerne, Switzerland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lucerne, Switzerland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lucerne, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lucerne, Switzerland by month

January

January is very cold. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost most days. It rains or snows regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February for Lucerne can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains or snows about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Lucerne is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. It's important that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April for Lucerne is cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost sometimes. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Lucerne can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to get the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Lucerne during July, you are likely to find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to find the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

Traveling to Lucerne in August, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you go to Lucerne in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Lucerne is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

In November, Lucerne is cold. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Lucerne, with several of the days of the month having rain. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost most days. It rains or snows about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lucerne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you are planning to go to the must-see The Chapel Bridge, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Glacier Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne, Switzerland is a picturesque town located in the heart of the country. Known for its pristine lake, historic landmarks, and stunning mountain views, Lucerne is a top tourist destination for travelers from across the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Lucerne that you won't want to miss.

Chapel Bridge and Water Tower

The Chapel Bridge and Water Tower are the most iconic landmarks in Lucerne. Built in the 14th century, the Chapel Bridge is the oldest wooden bridge in Europe. It is adorned with paintings depicting the history of Lucerne, providing a glimpse into the town's rich heritage. The Water Tower was a part of the medieval fortification system and has now been turned into a museum.

Lion Monument

The Lion Monument is a sculpture that pays tribute to the Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution. It was designed by Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and carved out of a natural sandstone rock face. The monument is considered one of the best examples of 19th-century art and is a must-see attraction in Lucerne.

Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne is a stunning body of water that is surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps. The lake is a popular spot for water sports activities such as swimming, sailing, and boating. There are also many scenic walking and cycling routes alongside the lake, which offer breathtaking views of the mountains and the lake.

Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is a mountain that towers over Lucerne and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. There are many cable cars, funiculars, and cogwheel trains that take visitors to the top of the mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Lucerne and the surrounding mountains.

Old Town

Lucerne's Old Town is a well-preserved medieval town center that is home to many historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The Old Town is filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops that cater to tourists. Visitors can also explore the many museums, galleries, and churches in the Old Town, which date back to the Middle Ages.

In conclusion, Lucerne, Switzerland is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. With its iconic landmarks, stunning lake, and majestic mountains, Lucerne is truly a top tourist destination that shouldn't be missed.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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