How long does it take to walk through Lucerne's Old Town?

The core of the Old Town is quite compact. This specific route covers about 1 kilometer and takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes depending on how long you stop to admire the murals and take photos.

Are the frescoes in Lucerne Old Town original?

Many of the frescoes have been meticulously restored or repainted in the late 19th and 20th centuries to preserve their vibrancy, though they often depict original medieval themes and stories. Some, like those on the Haus zur Gilles in Hirschenplatz, are remarkably well-preserved examples of historical storytelling.

Is the Lucerne Old Town walking route accessible for strollers?

Yes, the route is mostly flat and pedestrianized, making it stroller-friendly. However, be prepared for cobblestones throughout the Altstadt, which can be a bit jarring for some strollers.

Can I drink the water from the fountains in Lucerne?

Yes, almost all fountains in Lucerne, including the Fritschibrunnen and the Weinmarkt fountain, provide fresh, high-quality drinking water. Unless there is a sign saying 'Kein Trinkwasser,' it is safe to refill your bottle.

What is the most famous square in Lucerne?

The Weinmarkt is widely considered the most famous and beautiful square in Lucerne. It is historically significant as the site where the city joined the Swiss Confederation in 1332 and features the city's most ornate Gothic fountain.

Is there a fee to see the painted houses in Lucerne?

No, the painted facades are located on public buildings and private guild houses facing the open squares. You can enjoy this 'open-air gallery' entirely for free at any time of day.

What is the best time of day to photograph Hirschenplatz?

Early morning light is best for photographing Hirschenplatz to avoid the harsh shadows cast by the tall buildings and to ensure you don't have large crowds blocking the view of the ground-level murals.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a living canvas where every facade tells a story of medieval power, festive legends, and artistic mastery. This self-guided walk through Lucerne's Altstadt (Old Town) invites you to explore the 'Painted Squares,' a collection of pedestrian-friendly plazas famous for their intricate frescoes and ornate guild houses. Unlike a traditional walking tour Lucerne might offer in a large group, this neighborhood stroll allows you to linger under the gaze of stone saints and legendary figures at your own pace. You will begin at the Kapellplatz, where the spirit of the Lucerne Carnival is immortalized in stone, before winding through the narrow alleys that reveal the city's Renaissance grandeur. As you navigate this walking route, you will discover the secrets of the powerful guilds that once governed the city's commerce. The murals you see—known as Lüftlmalerei—are not merely decorative; they are historical documents depicting biblical scenes, local folklore, and the wealth of the merchant class. From the arcaded halls of the Old Town Hall to the vibrant, photogenic facades of Hirschenplatz, the route captures the essence of a city that has meticulously preserved its medieval character. You will see how the Am-Rhyn-Haus reflects the transition from Gothic to Renaissance styles and stand in the Weinmarkt, arguably the most beautiful square in Switzerland, where historic oaths were once sworn. This audio walk is perfect for those who want to dive deep into the symbolism of Swiss art without the constraints of a schedule. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect angle of a gilded sign or a history buff curious about the legend of Brother Fritschi, this self-guided adventure provides the context needed to truly 'read' the walls of Lucerne. This experience is one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy a walking tour Lucerne has to offer, focusing on the hidden details that many travelers overlook while rushing toward the lake. Prepare to look up and lose yourself in the painted history of the Lucerne Altstadt.

Highlights

Marvel at the intricate frescoes of Hirschenplatz

Learn the legend of Brother Fritschi at the Fritschibrunnen

See the Italian Renaissance architecture of the Rathaus

Explore the Weinmarkt, Lucerne's most historic public square

Discover the hidden symbols on medieval guild house facades

Walk through the Am-Rhyn-Haus, a masterpiece of late Renaissance style

Tour Stops (6)

Fritschibrunnen

Welcome to Kapellplatz, the heart of Lucerne’s festive tradition. Before you stands the Fritschibrunnen, or the Fritschi Fountain. This colorful monument is dedicated to Brother Fritschi, a legendary figure central to Lucerne’s Carnival, or 'Fasnacht.' Look closely at the faces on the column; they represent different characters from the carnival’s history. The fountain was originally built in the 16th century, though the version you see today dates to 1918. It serves as the starting point for the annual carnival parade. Legend says Fritschi was a farmer who left money to the city to provide wine to the poor during the festivities. It is a symbol of the city's jovial spirit and its deep-rooted medieval customs.

Am-Rhyn-Haus

Just a short walk away, the Am-Rhyn-Haus represents the peak of Lucerne’s Renaissance architecture. Built between 1616 and 1618 for the mayor, Walther Am Rhyn, this building moved away from the traditional wooden structures of the time toward stone elegance. Notice the balanced proportions and the rhythmic placement of the windows. While it now houses a renowned art collection, the building itself is the primary exhibit here. It served as a private residence for one of Lucerne’s most influential families for centuries. The interior still boasts magnificent coffered ceilings and tiled stoves, reflecting the immense wealth generated by the city's trade elite during the 17th century.

Rathaus Stadt Luzern

Standing before the Rathaus, or Old Town Hall, you are looking at one of the most beautiful public buildings in Switzerland. Constructed between 1602 and 1606, it was designed by the Italian architect Anton Isenmann. He brought the flair of the Italian Renaissance to the heart of Lucerne. Look at the ground floor—the open arcades once served as a bustling marketplace where local farmers and traders sold their goods. Above, the tall clock tower served both as a timekeeper and a symbol of civic authority. The roof is a classic Swiss design, built to shed heavy winter snow, creating a unique fusion of Mediterranean style and Alpine practicality.

Kornmarkt

You are now in the Kornmarkt, which literally translates to 'Grain Market.' For centuries, this was the commercial hub of Lucerne. The square is surrounded by grand houses that once belonged to the city's wealthiest merchant families. As you look around, you can see how the squares in Lucerne flow into one another, creating a sequence of 'outdoor rooms.' The Kornmarkt was not just for grain; it was the site of public announcements and civic gatherings. Notice the ornate guild signs hanging from the buildings—these served as advertisements in an era when many people could not read, using symbols to indicate what was sold or crafted inside.

Hirschenplatz

Prepare your camera for Hirschenplatz, perhaps the most intricately painted square in the city. The name comes from the 'Hirschen' or Stag Inn that has stood here since the medieval era. The facades here are covered in elaborate frescoes that were largely restored or added in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the most famous murals depicts the Greek hero Hercules, symbolizing strength and virtue. These paintings were a way for the building owners to display their education, worldliness, and status. The square's narrow exits and colorful walls create an almost theatrical atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for artists and travelers alike.

Weinmarkt

We conclude our walk at the Weinmarkt, the Wine Market. This square is steeped in history; in 1332, it was here that the citizens of Lucerne swore their oath of confederacy with the forest cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden, forming the core of Switzerland. The centerpiece is the Weinmarkt Fountain, considered the most beautiful Gothic fountain in the country. The figures on the fountain represent Saint Maurice and other warriors. While the fountain you see is a high-quality replica (the original is in the History Museum), it still captures the medieval grandeur of the square. The surrounding buildings, like the Müllersche Haus, feature some of the most delicate fresco work in the city, depicting biblical scenes and floral patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the Altstadt squares is ideal for art lovers. This route focuses on the unique 'Lüftlmalerei' (frescoes) found at Hirschenplatz and Weinmarkt, allowing you to study the medieval and Renaissance details without being rushed by a group.