1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Overview
Experience historical Lucerne on a medieval city sightseeing walking tour. See the main attractions and hear the comments of your medievally dressed guide. He will take you through narrow streets and hidden places of old Lucerne and tell you about ghosts, demons and witches. Compare old and new Lucerne with the help of historical pictures, which were exclusively printed for you on postcards. Discover the Ritterscher Palace on an inside visit. See the stone masonry art work and enjoy the presentation of the Dance of the Dead paintings on the second floor of that Renaissance Palace.
What's Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Some exclusive post cards featuring Old Lucerne and a City Map
- Inside visit of the Ritterscher Palace (except on Weekends, Holidays and Special Events)
- Professional native guide
Meeting Location
Meeting point
Rosengart Platz
6004 Luzern, Switzerland
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Rosengart Platz
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the medieval tapestry of Lucerne, unraveling tales from the 12th to the 18th century as you traverse its cobblestone streets.
Your journey begins with the haunting echo of the firehorn, heralding the arrival of the night watchman, Ralf. Through his eyes, you'll glimpse the toil and tribulations of a lower-class town servant, steeped in the history of Lucerne. Following the ancient Martiniplan, a map woven with centuries-old secrets, you'll behold iconic landmarks such as the venerable Water Tower, the storied Chapel Bridge, and the serene St. Peter's Chapel.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Peterskapelle
The St. Peter's Chapel ist the first church in town dating back to the 12th century
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Haus Und Turm Zur Gilgen
The Zurgilgen House and Tower is the oldest private stone house in Lucerne and was completed in 1510. It has a beautiful Gothic round tower, while the house itself was baroqueized in the 18th century.
4 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kapellplatz
Beneath the cobble stones at the Kapellplatz, there is still a cemetery from earlier times. On the wall of the Peterskapelle, you can see the painting of Saint Christopher. Strictly devout Catholics believe that whoever looks at the mural devoutly will not die a sudden death today. Saint Christopher is also the patron saint of travelers. Since you are also on a journey, he is also your patron saint if you want him to be.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Furrengasse
In Furrengasse, you will hear the story of the ghost and of the Toggelis, both of whom caused mischief here at night. You will also learn why Switzerland has a cross on its flag.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kornmarkt
The Rathausplatz is actually called Kornmarkt. Korn means grain in our language and in the past, grain was traded at this square and stored in the town hall.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Rathaus Stadt Luzern
The town hall is a Renaissance building and was completed in 1607. The town hall tower was built around 1500. What is special about it is the clock, which does without a minute hand. You will also see the old units of length in Lucerne, the foot and the ell.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Brandgässli
The Brandgässli recalls a major fire of 1833. Lucerne has always suffered from large city fires. In the Middle Ages, entire districts fell victim to the flames. But even in modern times, fires have occurred repeatedly: in 1633 the Hofkirche, in 1833 between Reuss and Weinmarkt, in 1971 the train station and in 1993 the Chapel Bridge.
At the guild house of the tailors and butchers, you will hear the legend of the murder night of Lucerne.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Weinmarkt
The Weinmarkt is one of the most beautiful squares in Lucerne. Many of the houses have been standing since the 16th century and are decorated with beautiful murals. In the past, fish was traded here. After Lucerne flourished thanks to the Gotthard Pass, wine was traded here. The Weinmarkt fountain is the oldest stone fountain in Lucerne and dates back to the end of the 15th century. Refresh yourself with the fresh spring water from Mount Pilatus, which has been supplying the fountains of the historic center since the 14th century.
At the lower Weinmarkt, you will see a linden tree. It was here that court was held from the middle of the 13th century. A linden tree often stood at medieval judicial sites, as it was believed to keep the judge in a good mood. It was also here that sentences were carried out: beheading, hanging, burning, breaking on the wheel, hands being cut off, tongues being split, branding, etc.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Im Zöpfli
On the facade of the Hotel Des Balances, you will also see the goddess Justitia. With her eyes blindfolded, holding a balance and a sword, she still symbolically holds court here.
"Zöpfli" means "decorative piece" and is indeed a very special little place. The locals eat a sandwich there during their lunch break and/or enjoy a foot bath in the river.
There you will hear the legend of the Pilatus Saga and learn how Mount Pilatus got its name.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Reussbrücke (Pass By)
The Reussbrücke is the first bridge in Lucerne and dates back to the 12th century. The first bridge was always built at the narrowest point of the river, which is exactly here. The Reussbrücke was always wide enough to be passed by carts, while the Chapel Bridge and the Spreuer Bridge were always pedestrian bridges.
Münzgasse (Pass By)
Münzgasse is a small alley that most visitors to Lucerne do not get to see without a local guide, because it is somewhat hidden. The square is paved with really old cobblestones and is named after the first mint that was located here.
Alte Suidtersche Apotheke
The House of the "Alte Suidtersche Apotheke" was built 1536 and is among the nicest gothic houses in Lucerne. The Farmacy itself was founded in 1833 and much of the interior hasn't changed since then. The absolute highlight is the medieval window as it can only be seen by night.
It is a room full of old stuff as it must have been used by Pharmacists in the Middlge Ages. You can see all sorts of medicinal wood and roots, jawbones with teeth, lots of boxes and glasses, a Dragon, a Blow Fish and many other things. On the right there is a fire put looking a bit like an alchemist kitchen. This must have been the ancient Pharmacists laboratory. Also have a look at the wooden door next to the window. It is decorated with poppies in ornamental ironwork.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Ritterscher Palast
The former *Ritter Palace is today's cantonal government building of Lucerne. Lux Ritter, a Mayor who became very rich as a mercenary leader, had this Florentine palazzo built for himself from 1556. You will hear the true story of the unfortunate stonemason Hans von Trient. Afterwards, you will visit the building, which has a beautiful inner courtyard and loggias facing inwards. Admire the beautiful stonemasonry work, which is the work of Hans von Trient. Inside the building, you will find the wonderful Renaissance series of paintings of the Danse Macabre by Jakob von Wyl, which will be explained to you in detail by your guide.
* The Ritterscher Palace is open to the public from Monday to Friday (without holidays) but can be closed for visitors also without notice in case of governmental or private events. In this case an inside visit of the building is not possible and the presentation of the Dance of Dead paintings will be on the tablet or postcards.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Jesuitenkirche
The Jesuit Church in Lucerne is the first large Baroque church in Lucerne and was completed in 1677. It was recently renovated and is very bright and beautifully decorated. The red marble of the altar comes from Goa in India. The side chapels are dedicated to saints, some of which are adorned with relics.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge was built in 1365 as part of the city's fortifications and, together with the adjacent Water Tower, is the most photographed attraction in Switzerland. You will hear details about its history, find out where the bridge got its name and why it was built at an angle across the river. The tour ends back at Rosengart Square, where your guide will be happy to provide you with further information about Lucerne.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
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
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- The Ritterscher Palace is open to the public from Monday to Friday but can be closed for visitors in case of governmental events. In this case an inside visit of the building is not possible and the presentation of the Dance of Dead paintings will be on the iPad of your guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
(6)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Medieval City Walk?
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-8421P7
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Private Medieval City Walk?
A:Apr 2025
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 (CEST).
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- All taxes, fees and handling charges.
- Some exclusive post cards featuring Old Lucerne and a City Map.
- Inside visit of the Ritterscher Palace (except on Weekends, Holidays and Special Events).
- Professional native guide.
Q:
What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible tour?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Private Medieval City Walk is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Private Medieval City Walk will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Some exclusive post cards featuring Old Lucerne and a City Map
- Inside visit of the Ritterscher Palace (except on Weekends, Holidays and Special Events)
- Professional native guide
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
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- The Ritterscher Palace is open to the public from Monday to Friday but can be closed for visitors in case of governmental events. In this case an inside visit of the building is not possible and the presentation of the Dance of Dead paintings will be on the iPad of your guide.
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