A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Brescia for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Lucerne or Brescia?

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 Lucerne and Brescia. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a cultural, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lucerne or Brescia?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Brescia. While Brescia is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Brescia is more popular for its food. Lucerne is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lucerne or Brescia?

Lucerne
Brescia

Lucerne is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lucerne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lucerne
Brescia

Brescia 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.

Brescia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

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 Lucerne or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne
Brescia

Lucerne is well known for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Lucerne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Lucerne or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne
Brescia

Lucerne is well known for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lucerne to see the historical old town. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Brescia?

Lucerne
Brescia

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and Brescia both offer plenty of great spots.

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.

Brescia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Is Lucerne or Brescia Better for Families?

Lucerne
Brescia

Lucerne is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lucerne. 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.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Lucerne or Brescia Better for Couples?

Lucerne
Brescia

Lucerne is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Lucerne or Brescia Better for Students?

Lucerne
Brescia

Brescia is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Lucerne or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne
Brescia

Lucerne and Brescia both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Brescia has a few public transit options. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

Is Lucerne or Brescia a more walkable city?

Lucerne
Brescia

Lucerne and Brescia are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Brescia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.


For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lucerne or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lucerne than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lucerne than Brescia 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 Lucerne or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lucerne 1-3 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Lucerne or Brescia?

In Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Brescia, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Lucerne or Brescia?

In Lucerne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer.

In Brescia, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brescia has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Brescia?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Brescia is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Lucerne or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brescia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brescia. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Lucerne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lucerne is $214, while the average daily cost in Brescia is $154. 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 Lucerne and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lucerne $137
    Brescia $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lucerne $274
    Brescia $160
Compare Hotels in Lucerne and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Lucerne or Brescia? 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 Lucerne


Hotels in Brescia


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 and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lucerne $13
    Brescia $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Lucerne or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Lucerne 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
    Lucerne $62
    Brescia $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

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lucerne $34
    Brescia $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

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


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    $34
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    $35

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lucerne $22
    Brescia $24

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lucerne and Brescia, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Brescia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Brescia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brescia 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 Brescia.

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


Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Brescia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Lucerne or Brescia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lucerne or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Brescia. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Brescia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Lucerne is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lucerne in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Brescia averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In the summer, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Brescia. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brescia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lucerne is generally around the same temperature as Brescia. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 13°C (56°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Brescia. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Lucerne during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brescia in the winter. The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. Lucerne is much warmer than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in January than Brescia. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Brescia. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brescia for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lucerne in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Brescia. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Lucerne

Lucerne Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)