Explore medieval Lucerne on the Nightwatchman Walking Tour. See the illuminated attractions and hear the comments and background stories of the Nightwatchman. You will hear about ghosts, demons and witches and the Legend of the Riot of Lucerne. You will learn about living in Lucerne in the middle ages, you get information about law and order of that time. The Nightwatchman Guide is dressed in medieval style and equipped with a traditional Swiss halberd. He takes you through narrow streets and hidden places of the historic Centre of Lucerne. The tour is surrounded by pictures presented with a projector, on iPad and on postcards.
Öffentliche Tour auf Deutsch
Public Tour
Public Tour
Public Tour
Public Tour
Public Tour
Public Tour
As the tour starts you hear the fire horn followed by the invocation pray. The Nightwatchman tells you about his hard life in the middle age. With the help of a projector he introduces you to medieval Lucerne. You have a detailed look into the Martini plan, the first city map of Lucerne, dating from 1597. You see the route on the map and you will discover that many of the buildings on the map are still here today. You see St. Peter’s Chapel, the first church in town dating back to the 12th century. Next to it you see the first private stone house of Lucerne and you find out where the expression "stone rich" comes from.
Did you know that the Water Tower was built some decades before the Chapel Bridge? In fact the Water Tower was built in the late 13th century while the Chapel Bridge dates back to 1365. You see pictures of the inside of the Water Tower and hear about the torture chamber, the dungeon and the secret room. Further you learn from where the Chapel Bridge got its name from.
You walk round the corner to Kapellplatz and hear about live in the middle age in the blooming Republic of Lucerne. Walking through the Furrengasse you learn about its Ghost and the Toggeli (Incubus aka "love robber") around him.
You arrive at the the Town Hall Square called Kornmarkt. You learn about the Renaissance Town Hall and its Tower with the clock without minute hand. You hear the story of the "Giant of Reiden" and you see the Lucerne Foot and Elle, the official measures of Old Lucerne.
In the Brandgässli Alley you get to know about the Riot of Lucerne before you continue to the former fish market, known today as the wine market.
On the Weinmarkt you see the old guest house signs and admire the frescos on the houses. On the former pharmacy house of Renward Cysat you read the latin sentence: "Amor medicabillis nullis herbis" which meams: "There is no cure for a broken heart."
While listening to what the Nightwatchman has to say about reformation and counter reformation, you enjoy a glass of the best water Lucerne. Then you pass the lower wine market, where once the pillory was located.
Right at the riverside square called “Zöpfli”, you hear about law and order in old Lucerne. You see projected paintings about the methods of prosecution, interrogation and corporal punishment of the Middle Age in Lucerne.
You pass the bridge “Reussbrücke” and you see the Spreuerbruecke (Mill Bridge), the Needle Dam and parts of the Musegg Wall.
A few steps further you arrive at the breathtaking medieval pharmacy window of the “Alte Suidtersche Apotheke”. The Nightwatchman tells you more about the house and the location.
As you continue the Nightwatchman shows you some “Guardian Demons”. You stop at the legendary house of Lux Ritter and you hear why the first two floors look different than the third one. Then you hear the story of “Hans von Trient”, the unlucky stonemason. Another Highlight is the presentation of the seven paintings of the Dance of Death. You will see the pictures projected on a house wall and you hear details about from your Guide.
You pass the Church of the Jesuits, the first baroque building in Switzerland dating back to 1677.
You cross the Chapel Bridge and see the paintings and you find out why the bridge is built diagonally over the river. At the end of the bridge you reach the starting point, where the tour ends.
Meet your guide right next to Chapel Bridge, on the right hand riverside.
Go to the wooden bridge with the tower. This is called the Chapel Bridge and the Water Tower.
We meet at the square right at the end of the Chapel Bridge on the right hand riverside.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Tours take place rain, snow or shine. It is recommended to dress appropriately for the weather and bring an umbrella or rain coat.
Lucerne, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The city is famous for its iconic Chapel Bridge, picturesque lakeside setting, and vibrant cultural scene.
The Chapel Bridge is an iconic wooden bridge dating back to the 14th century, offering stunning views of the Reuss River and the city.
Mount Pilatus offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lucerne, accessible by the world's steepest cogwheel railway.
The Lion Monument is a powerful and moving sculpture carved into a sandstone cliff, commemorating the Swiss Guards who died in the French Revolution.
A Swiss specialty made from grated potatoes, often served as a side dish or with various toppings.
A traditional Swiss dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot, enjoyed with bread and pickles.
A Swiss dish made with thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, typically served with Rösti.
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
Swiss Franc (CHF)
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
230VV, 50HzHz
Lucerne is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Lucerne Railway Station
Lucerne Central Bus Station
The VBL bus network covers the entire city and surrounding areas, with frequent services and easy connections.
Available • Apps: Taxi App
Car, Bike, Scooter
Mount Titlis offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Rigi Mountain, also known as the 'Queen of the Mountains,' offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne.
Price varies by option