Lucerne Switzerland

An hours distance from the south of Basle and Zürich, and spectacular mountain views, lake cruises and a picturesque old quarter, LUZERN (Lucerne in French and English, Lucerna in Italian) has been one of the Europe's most heavily visited tourist places. Its popularity dates back to the year 1868 when Queen Victoria came for a long holiday in August 1868. A century old steady growth has resulted in the tourist trafiic of five millions visiting Lucerne every year. Tourism is the leading source of income, yet the city has been able to retain its charm at all costs.

The River Reuss splits the town, flowing rapidly out of the northwestern end of the lake. Both sides of the banks of River are clustered with medieval squares, frescoed houses, ancient guildhalls, churches and chapels, and filled with a liveliness that belies the city's age. Apart from being the base of initiating a Switzerland Tour, Lucerne is an exotic place to spend at least a couple of days to roam about in its quality museums - a Picasso gallery, the impressive Verkehrshaus (Transport Museum) - along with the medieval battlements, cobbled alleys and hidden garden courtyards.

Lucerne has also pioneered the café culture within the country, treasured by the youth of the city. At midnight on a weekend night, the main Pilatusstrasse boulevard has the feel of any European capital, with people bar-hopping, waiting for the last bus, or hanging out deciding where to go. Whether it is the history and tradition, the misty lake at its doorstep, the snow-capped peak of Pilatus, or its nightlife, Lucerne hypnotizes the tourists by its magic for long.