Lucerne

With culture, beauty, and athlecticism, Lucerne has much to appreciate

Lucerne is a favorite of travelers partly because it embodies the storybook image of a Switzerland town. Located on a lake, it abounds in narrow cobblestone streets, slender spires and turrets, covered bridges, frescoed houses, and fountains. Its residents are quick to tell you that you're "never far from the snow," as Mounts Rigi and Pilatus form the southern gate to the city, and the Alps loom in the distance.

Lucerne is a renowned cultural center. Richard Wagner spent several of his most productive years on the outskirts of town (there's a Wagner museum here). The Lucerne International Festival of Music, one of Europe’s most important musical events, happens annually in August and September and the streets come alive with music, costumes and parades during Carnival celebrations each winter.

The residents of Lucerne are a sports-oriented people. Every summer on Rotsee, there are international rowing regattas. Swimmers go to the lake, while golfers head for the nearby 18-hole golf course. Residents seem especially fond of horse races and horse-jumping contests. You'll find Lucerne at its best on Tuesdays and Saturdays, when it becomes a lively market town.

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