How to get around in Lucerne
The town center of Lucerne is relatively small and can be explored on foot or by public transport. Avoid traveling by car here.
Exploring the town center
The town center is easily reached by train and explored on foot. There are buses to get around as well.
If you come by car, then we recommend to park it and continue on foot. As in most Swiss cities, there are one-way streets, pedestrian zones and quite some local traffic in the Old Town of Lucerne.
Train station
The train station of Lucerne is called "Luzern", which is the local name of the town. This is where all public transport, including boats, departs from. The historical town center is 4 minutes on foot from there.
Parking
Street parking is scarce in the center of town. You can best park in one of the parking garages. There are 3 garages at the train station and various others around town.
If you want to prevent driving into the town center you can also park at Luzern Messe (trade center), which is right next to the train stop Luzern Allmend/Messe. It takes a 5-minute train ride to reach the center of Lucerne.
Parking is paid, regardless of where you park. A few hotels may have parking included. Others offer paid parking or no parking at all. In that case you'll need to park in one of the public garages.
Free public transport with the Visitor Card
You will receive a free Visitor Card when you check into your hotel or apartment. The card gets you discounts on local attractions and free traveling in and around town. But if you own a rail pass, you'll get to travel in a much wider area and discounts on attractions are mostly better.