12 THINGS TO DO IN LUCERNE ON A RAINY DAY
Imagine planning your perfect day in Lucerne, only to wake up to the pitter-patter of rain on your window. Before letting the dreary weather dampen your spirits, keep reading!
Lucerne’s charm doesn’t fade with the sun; in fact, the rain brings out a unique magic, enhancing the atmospheric allure of the city’s medieval architecture. While most travellers dream of sunshine and warm weather when visiting Lucerne, rain is a common occurrence—even in summer. But don’t worry, a little rain doesn’t have to spoil your trip!
Light rain passing through the city could mean you just grab an umbrella and take a stroll to visit the iconic landmarks which are walking distance from one another. If the forecast predicts heavier rain for the entire day, you’ll want to cozy up and keep dry but still experience the best of Lucerne.
From world-class museums and indulgent chocolate experiences to luxurious spas, we’ll give you inspiration and uncover hidden gem experiences that ensure every moment is memorable, rain or shine.
Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport
Start your day with a visit to the most popular museum in the country – The Swiss Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz). It provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of transportation, including railways, automobiles, aviation and space travel. Along with a collection of interactive exhibits, simulators and planetariums, there is The Swiss Chocolate Adventure where you can learn about the history of Swiss chocolate and even taste some samples. The Swiss Museum of Transport is an engaging experience for all ages and can be easily reached with a 10-minute bus trip from Lucerne train station.
Website: https://www.verkehrshaus.ch/startseite.html
Opening Hours: Daily from 10am-5pm
Location: Haldenstrasse 44, 6006 Luzern
Rosengart Collection
For the art enthusiasts, head over to the Rosengart Collection, a must-visit art museum. It houses an impressive collection of modern art, paintings, drawings and sculptures, with over 30 works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, and other renowned artists. The museum itself is located in a beautiful neoclassical building, adding to the overall experience. Dive into the world of Impressionism and Classic Modernism and enjoy fascinating guided tours that enhance your appreciation of these remarkable works of art, all while staying dry and inspired. The museum opens daily and is only a 3-minute walk from Lucerne station. Opening times and pricing info can be found here.
Website: https://www.rosengart.ch/en/
Location: Pilatusstrasse 10, 6003 Lucerne
Geek out at Gameorama
Step inside gaming heaven at Gameorama, an interactive game museum right in the heart of Lucerne. You’ll lose track of time here as you’re spoilt for choice – pinball machines, arcade games, game consoles, strategy games, skill games – the list goes on. The entry fee for 2 hours to the museum section is CHF 20 for adults and CHF 15 for children aged 6 to 16, with free admission for kids under 6. There is a limit of 50 people per time slot, so we recommend a reservation. The unique board game café is a cozy atmosphere where you can sip delicious drinks and choose from from over 600 board games in the library. Visiting with a group? Book an escape room for a thrilling experience. A perfect spot for gaming enthusiasts to retreat on a rainy day, Gameorama will keep adults and kids entertained for hours on end. Take a 360° virtual tour here
Website: https://www.gameorama.ch/en
Location: Hirschengraben 49, 6003 Lucerne
Opening hours: View here
Indulge at Aeschbach Chocolatier
No trip to Switzerland is complete without tasting its world-famous chocolate. If you don’t mind venturing a little outside of Lucerne, you can visit Aeschbach Chocolatier, a chocolate factory located in Root which is a 15-minute drive from Lucerne. Open 7 days a week, this is the perfect activity to take shelter and immerse yourself at ChocoWorld, an interactive tour where you can learn about the chocolate-making process, see the production in action and even create your own chocolate. Entrance fees are 15 CHF for adults over 16 years and 8 CHF for children, with free entry for children under 6. Level up your chocolate tasting experience with this cool and immersive experience at Aeschbach Chocolatier.
Website: https://aeschbach-chocolatier.ch/
Location: ChocoDromo 1, 6037 Root
Opening hours: 10am-5pm daily (last admission at 4pm)
Max Chocolatier
If you want to stay in the city, Max Chocolatier is an artisanal chocolate shop with two locations in Lucerne. Learn about the intricate process of crafting fine chocolates, guided by expert chocolatiers. The Max Chocolatier Boutique is located in the centre of Lucerne on Schweizerhofquai and offers a 30- or 60-minute chocolate tasting. Want to become a chocolate connoisseur? You can book a from a range of chocolate making workshops at the Max Chocolatier Design Studio. Here you have the option of a chocolate bar workshop, truffle stamping, seasonal mould making or even an ice cream workshop for something a little different. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a chocolate tasting, with the option of wine pairing.
Sessions are between 1-2 hours and priced between 75-150CHF per person but require a minimum number of participants for the workshops to go ahead – you can check availabilities for both locations here. As the rain falls outside, you’ll be cozily tucked inside the charming atelier with the rich aroma of chocolate filling your nose.
Website: https://en.maxchocolatier.com/events
Location: Max Chocolatier Boutique: Herteinstrasse 7, 6004 Lucerne
Max Chocolatier Design Studio: Obergrundstrasse 42, 6003 Lucerne
Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm Sat-Sun: Closed
Float on The Sauna Boot
Escape the city with a truly unique experience on Switzerland’s first sauna boat situated in a secluded part of Lake Lucerne. The innovative boat accommodates up to 6 people, making it perfect for an intimate solo retreat or a cozy outing with friends. It comes fully equipped with a wood-fired sauna stove, changing room and a lounging area. The staff provide a thorough briefing on how to operate the sauna and navigate the boat, allowing you to be the captain of your relaxing sauna session. Step out onto the deck to cool down in the fresh lake air or take a refreshing plunge into the lake itself if you’re feeling adventurous. The boat can be hired for 4 hours and offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and mystical view when the mountains are veiled with clouds on a rainy day. See the sauna boat in action here!
Website: https://saunaboot.ch/
Location: St. Niklausenstrasse 105, 6047 Kastanienbaum
Pamper yourself at Bürgenstock Resort
Transform a rainy day into a luxurious retreat at the world-renowned Bürgenstock Resort, situated 500m above Lake Lucerne. Rejuvenate and relax at the world-class Alpine Spa, equipped with 3 pools, saunas, relaxation room and fitness center while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views. There are multiple packages to choose from that give you 4-hour access or full day entry to the spa amenities, including a direct boat trip from Lucerne and funicular ride up to the resort.
Dining at Bürgenstock is an experience in itself, with a range of 10 gourmet restaurants, there is a culinary delight to satisfy any palate. Enjoy a sophisticated meal at Spices Kitchen & Terrace, where Asian flavors meet breathtaking views, or savor the finest Swiss cuisine at the traditional RitzCoffier. For a casual yet elegant dining experience, Oak Grill & Pool Patio offers delicious grilled specialties in a cozy atmosphere.
Website: https://burgenstockresort.com/en
Location: Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne, 6363 Obbürgen
VisitLocals
On a rainy day in Lucerne, VisitLocals provides an excellent way to discover the city’s hidden gems and unique experiences through the eyes of passionate locals. VisitLocals connects visitors with local experts who offer a wide array of activities, perfect for making the most of your time despite the gloomy weather. Whether you’re interested in exploring Lucerne’s rich history, indulging in a culinary tour or participating in creative workshops, there’s something for everyone. Each experience is designed to be intimate and authentic, so you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Lucerne’s culture and lifestyle.
Booking an experience through VisitLocals is easy and convenient via their user-friendly website. By choosing a local-led activity, you not only get to stay dry but also support the local community and gain insights that you wouldn’t find in typical tourist guides. It’s not exclusive to Lucerne, so you can search the site for cool activities if you plan on visiting other cities too.
Website: https://www.visitlocals.ch/en
Glacier garden (Gletschegarten)
Journey through time at the Glacier Garden, a captivating indoor escape that blends history, geology and fun. This unique museum reveals the Earth’s distant past through fascinating exhibits like glacial potholes and ancient palm leaf imprints, showcasing the region’s dramatic climatic changes. Marvel at the palm leaf imprints, evidence that Lucerne was once a subtropical beach 20 million years ago. Explore interactive displays that bring geological processes to life, navigate the enchanting Alhambra-inspired mirror maze, and enjoy panoramic views from the observation tower. Perfect for families and curious minds, the Glacier Garden is cozy, educational and entertaining haven, making it an ideal rainy- day destination in Lucerne.
Website: https://gletschergarten.ch/en
Location: Denkmalstrasse 4a, 6006 Luzern
Opening hours: Find it here
ETukTuk Luzern
If you want to explore the city and historic landmarks, eTukTuk Lucerne offers a unique and cozy way to explore the heart of Lucerne. These electric Tuk-Tuks provide an intimate and sheltered ride with transparent rain covers, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty without getting wet. Driven by knowledgeable local guides, the tours offer fascinating insights into Lucerne’s history and culture. The TukTuk’s are suitable for groups of 2 to 8 people. Indulge in their “Food-on-Wheels” experience with delicious Swiss cuisine or simply take a city tour and transform a dreary day into an exciting adventure.
Website: https://luzern.tuktuk.ch/
Location: Pickup point is at the KKL – Europaplatz 5, 6005 Luzern
Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm and Sat: 10am-4pm
Enjoy a performance at the KKL Luzern
Nestled along the waterfront stands a modern architectural gem: the KKL (Culture and Convention Centre) located next to the train station. The KKL is renowned for its stunning architecture and world-class acoustics, making it an ideal venue for concerts, operas, and other performances. Check the KKL’s event schedule in advance and book tickets for a performance that interests you. Find the programme here. The venue also houses a restaurant and a bar, where you can enjoy a drink before or after the show.
Website: https://www.kkl-luzern.ch/de/
Location: Europaplatz 1, 6003 Luzern
Experience Swiss Folklore at Stadtkeller
End your day with a traditional Swiss folklore show at Stadtkeller. Located in the heart of the city, this venue offers a combination of Swiss cuisine, music and dance, providing an entertaining and cultural experience. The atmosphere is lively and festive, perfect for an evening of fun with yodeling, alphorn blowing while you savour hearty Swiss dishes such as fondue, raclette and rösti, accompanied by local beers and wines. The evening shows run from April to October from 7:30pm – be sure to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as the venue is quite popular. It’s cozy and rustic ambiance create the perfect place for a memorable evening while the rain falls outside.
Website: https://stadtkeller.ch/de/swiss-night-out
Location: Sternenplatz 3, 6004 Luzern
Opening hours: Tue-Sat: 8:00am-11:00pm Sun-Mon: 11:30am-11:00pm
Lucerne Visitor Card
If you’ve booked accommodation in a city hotel, The Visitor Card gives overnight guests free use of buses and trains within zone 10 of the city network. It also gives you access to a range of discounts for cableways, mountain railways, museums and excursions in the Lake Lucerne Region. The Visitor Card will be sent to you by e-mail directly from your accommodation shortly before your stay which you can print or download to your phone. You can also ask for the Visitor Card when you check in at your accommodation. The website has a full list of all the activities that you can receive a discount for including excursions, museums, transport, fitness, sport, culture, shopping and even nightlife. Take advantage of ‘Free WiFi – LUZERN.COM’ hotspots around the city using the password on the back of the visitor card.
What are your rainy day activities?
There you have it – rainy days in Lucerne don’t have to be all doom and gloom. Instead, embrace the opportunity to experience its unique indoor treasures. With so many options to choose from, a rainy day can be just as magical and enjoyable as a sunny one, making your visit truly unforgettable. Let us know what you do in Lucerne when the weather takes a rainy turn!
Staying in Zurich? Check out this blog from Swiss Family Fun that gives you 40 best rainy day ideas – they’re family-friendly too! https://swissfamilyfun.com/rainy-day-zurich/
