Old Town

Lucerne’s Old Town or Altstadt is medieval Europe in a nutshell with its narrow cobbled streets, quaint cafes and historic buildings with ornate exteriors. Walking down these maze-like alleys while admiring the many statues, fountains and murals is like going back in time and embarking on the most romantic journey of your life. And even if you get lost in the winding lanes, you will discover a part of yourself you never knew existed. You will chance upon the Old Town Hall or the Altes Rathaus, the St. Peter's Chapel which happens to be the oldest church in town, a brilliant wine market, a corn marketplace and a pretty Swan square along with stunning houses of the wealthy bourgeoise. There is also a Gothic fountain in the centre of Kapellplatz that commemorates the carnival of Lucerne. With the Chapel Bridge as its starting point, all sightseeing tours in the city are centred around this wonderful area.

The near-total absence of traffic only amplifies the charm of this part of Lucerne and is also accessible for those wanting to explore the city on wheelchair. However, despite its antiquated charm, modern elements have not entirely deserted the Old Town. High-end clothing stores, concept restaurants, fancy chocolate shops and lively bars can be found in abundance and therefore it has a little bit of something to offer for everyone.