A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Lucerne for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Lucerne. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a vibrant, scenic, and active city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lucerne. Although Lake District National Park and Lucerne are popular destinations, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is famous for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Lucerne is famous for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Lake District National Park different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lucerne and Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lake District National Park is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Lucerne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lake District National Park is very popular for hiking. However, Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lake District National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.


Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lake District National Park and Lucerne both excellent destinations for a couple.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Couples visit Lucerne frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lake District National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lake District National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lucerne is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Lucerne has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.


Is Lake District National Park or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Lucerne

Lucerne is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable city. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Lucerne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lake District National Park and Lucerne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Lucerne. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Lucerne. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lake District National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lucerne than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lucerne that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lucerne than Lake District National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lucerne.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Lucerne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Lucerne 1-3

One day in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Lucerne. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Lucerne for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The historic destination of Lucerne offers shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Lucerne, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne or Lake District National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Lucerne is £172. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lake District National Park and Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Lucerne £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Lucerne £220
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Lucerne

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Lucerne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lake District National Park


Hotels in Lucerne


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Lucerne £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

Also for Lucerne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne and Lake District National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lake District National Park £21
    Lucerne £50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Lucerne £27

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    £27
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    £28

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lucerne.

  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $275
  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $534
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Luzern: $563
  • Alpine Majesty:Luzern to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $821
  • Basel: Swiss Alps Glacier Express Train Ride & Lucerne Tour: $760
  • Best of Lucerne Walking Photography Tour: $179
  • Burgenstock Private Tour: Mt. Rigis & Lake of Lucerne Cruise: $585
  • City tour plus Lucerne: $95
  • Day Trip from Grindelwald First Mountain Adventure: $174
  • Day Trip to Swiss Villages from Lucerne - Small Group tour by Car: $200
  • Early morning tour: $213
  • Exploring Lucerne with Friends: A Local Experience ❤: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Lucerne £18

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Lucerne, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Lucerne Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Lucerne?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Lucerne. The summer months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Lucerne in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Lucerne during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Lucerne. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Lucerne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Lucerne. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is cooler than Lucerne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Lucerne averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Lucerne. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Lucerne. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lucerne can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Lucerne during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Lucerne. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Lucerne in the Spring?

Both Lucerne and Lake District National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Lucerne in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Lucerne. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Lucerne. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Lucerne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)