A Travel Price Comparison for Switzerland Lucerne vs. Geneva for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Lucerne or Geneva?

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 Geneva. 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 vibrant, scenic, and active 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a classy, diverse, and international city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lucerne or Geneva?

You'll generally find more things to do in Geneva than Lucerne. Geneva is bigger than Lucerne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Geneva is better known for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Lucerne is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Lucerne is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Geneva is well known for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. Also, Geneva is famous for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Lucerne different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Geneva 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 Geneva?

Lucerne
Geneva

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Geneva and Lucerne.

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.

Geneva offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.


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

Lucerne
Geneva

Geneva 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.

Geneva has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne
Geneva

Lucerne is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Lucerne know how to have a good time. 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 Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Lucerne or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne
Geneva

Lucerne is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.


Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Geneva?

Lucerne
Geneva

Geneva is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Geneva specifically to go shopping. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Is Lucerne or Geneva Better for Families?

Lucerne
Geneva

Both Lucerne and Geneva are notable family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. 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.

Geneva is a family-friendly place to visit. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Lucerne or Geneva Better for Couples?

Lucerne
Geneva

Lucerne is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.


Is Lucerne or Geneva Better for Students?

Lucerne
Geneva

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

Many students visit Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

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 Geneva Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne
Geneva

Geneva is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Geneva has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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

Is Lucerne or Geneva a more walkable city?

Lucerne
Geneva

Geneva is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Geneva is a very walkable destination. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Geneva?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lucerne and Geneva. In our opinion, Geneva has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Geneva than Lucerne. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Lucerne than Geneva. 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 Geneva than Lucerne 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 Geneva.


  • How many days in Lucerne or Geneva? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lucerne 1-3 
    Geneva 1-3

One day in Lucerne or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Geneva?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Geneva has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Geneva 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 Geneva?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Lucerne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Geneva. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Geneva. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Geneva or Lucerne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lucerne is $218, while the average daily cost in Geneva is $213. 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 Geneva in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lucerne $139
    Geneva $147
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lucerne $278
    Geneva $294
Compare Hotels in Lucerne and Geneva

Looking for a hotel in Lucerne or Geneva? 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 Geneva


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 Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lucerne $13
    Geneva $9.55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

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

  • Private Transfer from Lucerne City to Lucerne Train Station: $108
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne Train Station to Lucerne City: $108
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $136
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $254

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Geneva Airport (GVA): Private Transfer to Chamonix (FR): $710
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Samoens: $294
  • Private Direct Transfer from Geneva to Lyon : $282
  • Geneva Private Transfer to Chamonix Mont Blanc: $275
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Montreux - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $274
  • Geneva Private Transfer to Val D' Isére or Tignes: $265
  • Geneva Private Transfer to Val Thorens: $264
  • Geneva Int Airport (GVA) to Méribel - Arrival Private Transfer: $264
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Chamonix (FR) - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $264
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Zermatt/Saas-Fee-Arrival Private Transfer: $237
  • Private Arrival Transfer: from Geneva Airport to Yvoire, France: $231
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Meribel (FR) - Arrival Private Transfer: $197

Is it cheaper to fly into Lucerne or Geneva?

Prices for flights to both Geneva 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 $63
    Geneva $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

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

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $148

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lucerne $35
    Geneva $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

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


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    $35
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    $36

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • Lucerne Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.41
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $14
  • Lake Lucerne 1-Hour Catamaran Cruise : $31
  • Lucerne Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $34
  • Lake Lucerne Panoramic Sightseeing Cruise: $36
  • Fish and Grill - Private Fishing Adventure with BBQ Experience: $86
  • City tour plus Lucerne: $97
  • Lucerne Walking & Boat Tour: The Best Swiss Experience: $101
  • Lucerne 2 Hours Private Walking Tour with Panorama Yacht Cruise: $113
  • Mt Pilatus self-guided Golden Round Trip from Lucerne incl. boat cruise: $129
  • 1 Hour Falconry/Hawk Experience in Basel Region : $137

Tours and Activities in Geneva

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

  • (KTG210) - Geneva City Tour and Yvoire: $179
  • (KTG353) - Winter Tour: Gruyeres, chocolate tour from Geneva: $173
  • (STTG03)Geneva International Quarter & Lakeside Sightseeing Tour: $30
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $33
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • 3 Hour Private Chocolate and Watch Walking Tour of Geneva: $284
  • 3-Hour Private Walking Tour in Geneva: $240
  • Activé Geneva Urban Art Tour 3h on a bike or ebike: $201
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $85
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $22
  • Best Intro Tour of Geneva with a Local: $158
  • Best of Geneva City Tour : $94

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lucerne $22
    Geneva $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

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

  • Private Wine Tasting to Vaud.: $75
  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $168


When comparing the travel costs between Lucerne and Geneva, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Geneva?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Geneva, 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 Geneva?

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 Geneva in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Geneva. The summer months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Geneva this time of year.

In the summer, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Geneva. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lucerne in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Geneva averages at about 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Geneva. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In the summer, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Geneva. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F) 
    Geneva 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Geneva in the Autumn?

Both Geneva and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Geneva during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Geneva. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Lucerne or Geneva in the Winter?

Both Geneva and Lucerne during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Geneva in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Geneva can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Lucerne. Lucerne is cooler than Geneva in the winter. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Geneva fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in January than Geneva. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F) 
    Geneva 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Geneva in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Geneva. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Geneva for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Geneva. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lucerne in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Geneva averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Geneva. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F) 
    Geneva 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Geneva and Lucerne

Lucerne Geneva
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 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) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)