A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Venice for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Lucerne or Venice?

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 Venice. 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. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Venice

Venice is a beautiful, romantic, and cultural city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Lucerne and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Venice?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Venice than Lucerne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Venice is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Lucerne attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Lucerne and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also well known for St. Mark's Basilica. Lucerne is famous for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

How is Lucerne different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

Both Lucerne and Venice offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Lucerne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Lucerne or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Lucerne or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Venice is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Venice has a world-famous historical area. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Venice?

Venice 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 Venice specifically to go shopping. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice Better for Families?

Venice 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 Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Lucerne or Venice Better for Couples?

Venice is very popular for couples. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Venice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Lucerne or Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular place to visit for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

Venice 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.

Venice has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is Lucerne or Venice a more walkable city?

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

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Venice?

Both Lucerne and Venice have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than in Lucerne. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-7 days is enough time in Venice.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Venice 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 Venice.

One day in Lucerne or Venice?

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.

In Venice, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Lucerne or Venice?

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.

In Venice, 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 Venice has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Venice?

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.

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Venice?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active 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 Venice. In Venice, you'll find museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Lucerne and Venice, we can see that Venice 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 Venice Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Venice?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

Both Venice and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Venice in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is around the same temperature as Venice in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Venice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Venice. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Venice during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Venice. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lucerne or Venice in the Autumn?

Both Venice and Lucerne during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Venice. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Venice averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Venice. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Venice. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Venice in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Venice. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Venice because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Venice can be very cold. Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Lucerne is generally around the same temperature as Venice. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Venice during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Venice. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lucerne or Venice in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Venice. The spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

Lucerne is around the same temperature as Venice in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Venice fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Venice. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Venice. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Venice and Lucerne