A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. The Hague for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Lucerne or The Hague?

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 The Hague. 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 active, cultural, and historic 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague

The Hague is a diverse, global, and international city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Lucerne and The Hague: 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
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Lucerne or The Hague?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than The Hague. While The Hague is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is better known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while The Hague is more popular for its food, music, and big city activities. Lucerne is more touristy than The Hague and is known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lucerne
The Hague

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Lucerne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lucerne
The Hague

The Hague 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.

The Hague has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

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 The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne
The Hague

The vibe at night is high quality in both Lucerne and The Hague.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. 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.

The Hague has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Lucerne or The Hague Better for Music?

Lucerne
The Hague

The Hague is great for its music scene. However, Lucerne is not a live music destination.

The music scene in The Hague draws a good crowd. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Lucerne is not a live music destination.


Is Lucerne or The Hague Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne
The Hague

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or The Hague?

Lucerne
The Hague

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and The Hague both offer plenty of high quality 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.

The Hague is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is Lucerne or The Hague Better for Families?

Lucerne
The Hague

Both Lucerne and The Hague 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.

The Hague is a family-friendly place to visit. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.


Is Lucerne or The Hague Better for Couples?

Lucerne
The Hague

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Lucerne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Lucerne or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lucerne
The Hague

The Hague is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

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 Lucerne or The Hague Better for Students?

Lucerne
The Hague

The Hague is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

The Hague is a very popular place to visit for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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

Lucerne
The Hague

The Hague is great 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in The Hague. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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

Is Lucerne or The Hague a more walkable city?

Lucerne
The Hague

Lucerne and The Hague 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.

The Hague is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or The Hague?

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

Families should spend more time in Lucerne than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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 The Hague.


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

One day in Lucerne or The Hague?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because The Hague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 The Hague?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the scenic destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because The Hague 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hague has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or The Hague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active city of Lucerne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

Lucerne is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting The Hague. 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague 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 The Hague is $191. 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 The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lucerne $137
    The Hague $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lucerne $274
    The Hague $224
Compare Hotels in Lucerne and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Lucerne or The Hague? 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 The Hague


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 The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lucerne $13
    The Hague $21

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

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

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23

Is it cheaper to fly into Lucerne or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague 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
    The Hague $59

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

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

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lucerne $34
    The Hague $37
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.

  • 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

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $535
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $187
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lucerne $22
    The Hague $32

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 The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


When comparing the travel costs between Lucerne and The Hague, 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 The Hague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lucerne or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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 Lucerne or The Hague in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and The Hague. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to The Hague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lucerne is a little warmer than The Hague. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lucerne in July average around 21°C (70°F), and The Hague averages at about 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in The Hague this time of the year. In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than The Hague. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or The Hague in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as The Hague. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to The Hague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 13°C (56°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as The Hague. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or The Hague in the Winter?

Both The Hague and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to The Hague because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in The Hague can be very cold. Lucerne can be very cold during winter. Lucerne is a little warmer than The Hague in the winter. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and The Hague fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives more rain than The Hague. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or The Hague in the Spring?

Both The Hague and Lucerne during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to The Hague this time of year.

In the spring, Lucerne is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lucerne in April average around 12°C (53°F), and The Hague averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as The Hague. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than The Hague. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Lucerne

Lucerne The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)