A Student's Guide to Budget-Friendly Activities in Lucerne

Lucerne is a city nestled in the heart of Switzerland, surrounded by majestic mountains and Lake Lucerne. 

Known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene, Lucerne is not just a tourist destination but also a fantastic place for students. Whether you’re just coming to study at one of Lucerne’s prestigious universities or already there, the city offers a wide range of budget-friendly activities that will make your time here unforgettable. This blog will help you explore the best of Lucerne without breaking the bank, from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures and even tips on affordable living.

Why is Lucerne Great for Student Life?

Lucerne is an ideal city for students - small enough to be easily navigable yet large enough to provide all the amenities of urban living. Lucerne’s universities, such as the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU), are known for their high-quality education, modern facilities, and strong industry connections, particularly in fields like business, engineering, and design.

Beyond great opportunities to study, Lucerne’s student life is vibrant, with numerous events, clubs, and activities catering to diverse interests. The city’s central location in Switzerland makes it easy for students to travel to other parts of the country, whether for a weekend getaway to Zurich or a hiking trip in the Alps. Lucerne also offers a safe and welcoming environment, making it an ideal place for international students.

Below, you can see our proposals for budget-friendly activities, perfect for students who want to discover the city.

Budget-Friendly Cultural Experiences

• Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)

Lucerne’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved medieval buildings, many adorned with intricate frescoes. Strolling through this historic area is like stepping back in time; best of all, it’s completely free. Don’t miss the famous Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) and the Water Tower, two of Lucerne’s most iconic landmarks. The nearby Lion Monument, a moving tribute to the Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution, is another must-see.

• Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport 

The Swiss Museum of Transport is one of the most famous museums in Switzerland. It showcases the history of transportation, communication, and tourism. With interactive exhibits, simulators, and even a planetarium, it’s an educational and entertaining way to spend an afternoon. As a student, you can get a Swiss Museum Pass, allowing you to access over 500 museums in Switzerland for one year.

• Take in the Views from the Musegg Wall 

The Musegg Wall is a well-preserved part of Lucerne’s old city defenses. It has nine towers offer stunning views of the city, Lake Lucerne, and the surrounding mountains. Several of the towers are open to the public. The Zyt Tower even has an ancient clock mechanism, a fascinating sight for history buffs.

Budget-Friendly Outdoor Activities

• Hiking on Mount Pilatus or Rigi

Lucerne is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, and some of the best hiking trails in Switzerland are just a short trip away. For instance, you can hike up these mountains for free and enjoy the panoramic views at the top. If you want to save money on transportation, consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, which, among other benefits, offers a 50% discount on most mountain railways and gondolas.

• Enjoy a Day at Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne is the perfect spot for outdoor activities, and the best part is that many of them are free. You can swim and have a picnic by the shore. The lakeside promenade is ideal for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. During the summer, free open-air concerts are often held at the lake.

• Biking Around Lucerne

Lucerne is a bike-friendly city with numerous trails and paths that make it easy to explore on two wheels. If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one at a reasonable price. Biking is a great way to discover Lucerne’s parks, such as the tranquil Richard Wagner Museum Park, or to take a scenic ride along the lake.

Budget-Friendly Nightlife and Dining

• Bars and Cafes

Lucerne has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and cafes offering happy hour deals. The Shamrock Irish Pub is a popular spot for students, with its lively atmosphere and affordable drinks. For a more laid-back evening, head to Alpineum Kaffeehaus, a cozy cafe where you can enjoy a coffee or an affordable meal while socializing with friends.

• Dining Options

Eating out in Switzerland can be expensive, but Lucerne has several budget-friendly options for students. Manora, located in the Manor department store, is one of them. It offers a variety of fresh, healthy meals at reasonable prices. 

Don’t forget to check out the weekly farmers’ markets, where you can buy fresh produce and local delicacies at lower prices.

Living in Lucerne: The Benefits of Co-Living

Finding affordable accommodation in Lucerne can be challenging, especially for students. 

However, co-living spaces offer a modern, cost-effective solution. Co-living involves sharing a living space with other residents, with private bedrooms and shared common areas like kitchens and lounges. 

Based on our clients' experiences, this not only makes rent more affordable but also fosters a sense of community, helping you build a network of friends and fellow students.

Additional benefits of co-living are: 

• Cost-effectiveness: Co-living is frequently less expensive than standard flat rentals. The fee for our co-living studios includes all utilities, including internet, water, power, heating, and cleaning of the common areas.
• Community: Because co-living places encourage social connections, it's simpler for students to establish networks and make friends.
• Convenience: Since our co-living rooms are all furnished, students can concentrate on their academics without having to bother about locating suitable furnishings.

Conclusion

Lucerne offers the perfect balance of academic excellence, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Whether exploring the historic Old Town, hiking up a mountain, or socializing with friends at a local cafe, Lucerne has something for everyone—and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it.

If you’re planning to study in Lucerne, consider the benefits of co-living as a budget-friendly and community-oriented housing option.

If you want a cost-effective, peaceful, and pleasant place to stay, we offer studios designed to provide the utmost comfort. Each studio has a spacious, relaxing bathroom, a quality bed, a well-lit desk, and private storage space. Explore our website and find your perfect, fully furnished studio at an affordable price. 

For more info, you can contact us at +41225524430.