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Revealing Lucerne: Self-Guided Reading City Tour

3 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 3 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Lucerne, Switzerland
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.

1 to 2 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
Russian
Instant confirmation

Overview

Embark on this captivating self-guided reading tour to discover all the key attractions of Lucerne.

Beyond the well-known tourist attractions of Lucerne, you'll see over twenty distinctive frescoed houses. Prepare to be enchanted by a vibrant building that perfectly captures the festive spirit of carnival and feast your eyes on a masterpiece portraying a dwarf engaged in the whimsical act of clysterizing the devil.

In addition to the usual destinations explored by most tourists, this tour unveils the distinctive aspects of Lucerne, guiding you to places such as the former places of orphanage, prison, and executioner’s house. This experience is invaluable because it reveals not only the city's celebratory side but also some of its secrets typically kept from the public eye.

We'll take you on a journey through time, sharing stories of those who once called this place home and others who wielded wealth, navigated political intrigues, and extended helping hands to those in need.

What's Included

  • Visit all the main tourist attractions of Lucerne
  • See places of former orphanage, prison, and executioner’s house
  • View over twenty unique frescoed houses and listen to their stories
  • You will need to have your own mobile phone with internet
  • There will be no live guide. Instead, you'll explore the city using the link provided after booking
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Bahnhofstrasse 11A
6003 Luzern, Switzerland

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Denkmalstrasse 4
6002 Luzern, Switzerland

The renowned Lion Monument in Lucerne has been captivating visitors for numerous years, marking the poignant conclusion of your tour at this extraordinary location.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Jesuit Church Lucerne

Nestled in the heart of Lucerne, the Jesuit Church stands as a sublime testament to Baroque architecture and spiritual grandeur. With its graceful façade and ornate interiors, the church captivates visitors, offering a serene haven for admiration.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Ritterscher Palace Lucerne

Unveil Ritterscher Palace and its captivating tale of a common worker's remarkable ascent to becoming the wealthiest Lucerner of his time. Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the building stands as a testament to extraordinary success and prosperity.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Franziskanerkirche

Discover the Franciscan Church, where a profound sense of solitude and tranquility creates a haven for quiet reflection. Above the entrance, a portal delicately unveils the scene of the coronation of Saint Mary, adding a touch of sacred beauty to this peaceful sanctuary.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Spreuer Bridge

Embark on an exploration of Spreuer Bridge, and be astounded as reminders of death unexpectedly emerge. Adorned with its unique Dance of Death paintings, the bridge serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, offering a thought-provoking experience along this historical crossing.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Muhlenplatz

Immerse yourself in the evocative tales of four unique places, observed from a picturesque distance. Catch a glimpse of the former St. James Hospital building, once a nurturing orphanage, and observe the former prison, former brothel, and the executioner's house, each revealing its own compelling narrative. Allow these historical places to unveil their stories before your eyes, inviting you to absorb the layers of their captivating pasts from a truly enchanting perspective.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Nolliturm Tower

Discover the enchanting silhouette of Nölli Tower, where architectural elegance meets the sky, and uncover the story of the Musegg Wall.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Weinmarkt

Embark on a journey through Weinmarkt, where discovery awaits amid the charm of many buildings adorned with vibrant frescoes. Among them, marvel at the historic building of the first pharmacy, witness the depiction of the transformative scene of water into wine, and observe the artwork portraying the announcement to Lucerne's inhabitants about their city joining the union—a pivotal moment in laying the foundation of Switzerland as a united state.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hirschenplatz

Discover Hirschenplatz, where a captivating array of buildings adorned with frescoes awaits your exploration. Marvel at the depiction of Goethe on one building, relive the historical Battle of Dornach on another, and glimpse into the past at the building once owned by a jewelry workshop proprietor. Explore further, and you'll encounter additional buildings on this square adorned with their own unique frescoes, each contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant and historic locale.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Rathaus Stadt Luzern

Explore the magnificent Rathaus in Lucerne, which captivates visitors with its medieval charm and impressive clock tower.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Wasserturm

Admire the Water Tower, an architectural gem standing proudly in the middle of the river in Lucerne. This iconic structure, surrounded by flowing waters, exudes historical charm and is a captivating sight from the city's banks. Immerse yourself in the tales woven into the Water Tower's history, where, in times past, it served as a prison where unfortunate souls endured torment.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Chapel Bridge

Meander across the Chapel Bridge, an enchanting pathway adorned with paintings. Spanning the Reuss River, this historic bridge boasts a unique blend of art used for both education and persuasion.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Peterskapelle

Explore St. Peter's Chapel in Lucerne, where the facade unveils St. Niklaus von Flüe on one side and a fresco related to the symbolic burden of the world on the other. These artistic expressions infuse the chapel with cultural significance and historical charm
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Fritschibrunnen

Explore the enchanting Fritschi Fountain and the vibrant tapestry of two nearby buildings with colorful facades in Lucerne. Adorned with lively frescoes, one building celebrates the joy of carnival, while the other captivates with seven figures symbolizing virtues.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Hofkirche St. Leodegar

Embark on an exploration of Hofkirche St. Leodegar, where symmetrical Gothic towers, adorned with sharp spears, rise proudly on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Delve into its intricate beauty and bear witness to the depiction of St. Michael vanquishing Satan.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Lion Monument

Discover the poignant Lion Monument, a masterpiece carved into the sandstone rock face in Lucerne. This iconic sculpture, depicting a dying lion, commemorates Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. The Lion Monument stands as a solemn symbol of sacrifice and serves as a moving tribute to the bravery and loyalty of those who gave their lives in service.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Revealing Lucerne: Self-Guided Reading City Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-310164P6

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Reviews

5.00
3 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 3 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
3
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
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1 star
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Visit all the main tourist attractions of Lucerne
  • See places of former orphanage, prison, and executioner’s house
  • View over twenty unique frescoed houses and listen to their stories
  • Enjoy clear explanation of the route with photos and detailed directions
  • Read information thoughtfully compiled by experienced guide
  • You will need to have your own mobile phone with internet
  • There will be no live guide. Instead, you'll explore the city using the link provided after booking

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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