Private 1.5-Hour Nightwatchman Walk in Medieval Lucerne
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Private 1.5-Hour Nightwatchman Walk in Medieval Lucerne

Active
(15 reviews)
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover medieval Lucerne with your private guide on your Nightwatchman walking tour. Learn about the history of the Nightwatchman and see the illuminated attractions. You'll be told about the Legend of the Riot of Lucerne and will hear about ghosts, demons and witches. Imagine what it was like to live in Lucerne in the middle ages and get information about the law and order of that time. Your private Nightwatchman guide is dressed in medieval style and equipped with a traditional Swiss halberd. He will guide 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.

Available options

19:00 starting Rosengarplatz

Private, English or German

19:30 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German. (Duration: Summer 90 minutes / Winter 60 minutes)

17:00 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German, duration 60 minutes.

20:00 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German. (Duration: Summer 90 minutes / Winter 60 minutes)

19:00 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German, duration: 90 minutes in summer / 60 minutes in winter.

20:30 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German. (Duration: Summer 90 minutes / Winter 60 minutes)

21:00 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German. (Duration: Summer 90 minutes / Winter 60 minutes)

21:30 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German. (Duration: Summer 90 minutes / Winter 60 minutes)

18:00 starting Rosengart Platz

Private, English or German: Private Nightwatchman Walk in English or German, duration 60 minutes.

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges
Private tour
Some postcards of old Lucerne
Professional medievally dressed local guide

Detailed itinerary

1

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.

2
Stop 2

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.

3
Stop 3

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.

4

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.

5
Stop 5

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.

6
Stop 6

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."

7
Stop 7

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.

8
Stop 8

You pass the bridge “Reussbrücke” and you see the Spreuerbruecke (Mill Bridge), the Needle Dam and parts of the Musegg Wall.

9
Stop 9

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.

10

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.

11
Stop 11 Pass by

You pass the Church of the Jesuits, the first baroque building in Switzerland dating back to 1677.

12
Stop 12

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.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
During the Winter (November-March) the tour duration is 1 hour

Meeting point

Rosengart Platz is on Rathausquai, next to the wooden Chapel Bridge on the right hand river bank.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

About Lucerne

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.

Top Attractions

Chapel Bridge

The Chapel Bridge is an iconic wooden bridge dating back to the 14th century, offering stunning views of the Reuss River and the city.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lucerne, accessible by the world's steepest cogwheel railway.

Nature Half to full day CHF 70-100 for the round trip

Lion Monument

The Lion Monument is a powerful and moving sculpture carved into a sandstone cliff, commemorating the Swiss Guards who died in the French Revolution.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rösti

A Swiss specialty made from grated potatoes, often served as a side dish or with various toppings.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian

Fondue

A traditional Swiss dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot, enjoyed with bread and pickles.

Dinner Contains dairy

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

A Swiss dish made with thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, typically served with Rösti.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Paragliding Boat tours on Lake Lucerne Spa treatments Visiting museums Attending concerts and festivals Swimming

Best Time to Visit

June to August

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.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: German
  • Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

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.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air
  • Zurich Airport • 50 km (31 miles)
By train

Lucerne Railway Station

By bus

Lucerne Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The VBL bus network covers the entire city and surrounding areas, with frequent services and easy connections.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi App

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Neustadt

Day trips

Mount Titlis
60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Mount Titlis offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Rigi Mountain
30 km (19 miles) • Half to full day

Rigi Mountain, also known as the 'Queen of the Mountains,' offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne.

Festivals

Lucerne Festival • August to September Lucerne Carnival • February/March

Pro tips

  • Visit the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Take a boat tour on Lake Lucerne for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • Explore the nearby Swiss Alps and mountain destinations, such as Mount Pilatus and Mount Titlis, for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures.
  • Try traditional Swiss dishes, such as Rösti, Fondue, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, at local restaurants and eateries.
  • Shop for unique souvenirs, such as Swiss chocolate, watches, and handmade crafts, at the boutique shops in Old Town.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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