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

Should you visit Nottingham or Lucerne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Lucerne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a authentic, dynamic, and livable city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic 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.

Nottingham and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Lucerne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Nottingham. While Nottingham is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Nottingham is more popular for its music. Lucerne is more touristy than Nottingham 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. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Nottingham different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Lucerne

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


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

Nottingham
Lucerne

Both Nottingham and Lucerne offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Lucerne has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Nottingham or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Lucerne

Lucerne is well known for nightlife. Also, Nottingham 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 Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Nottingham or Lucerne Better for Music?

Nottingham
Lucerne

Nottingham is a good destination for its music scene. However, Lucerne is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Lucerne is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Lucerne

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

Lucerne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Lucerne?

Nottingham
Lucerne

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lucerne and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Lucerne is well-known for its shopping. 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 Nottingham or Lucerne Better for Families?

Nottingham
Lucerne

Both Nottingham and Lucerne are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

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.


Is Nottingham or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Lucerne

Lucerne is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

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

Nottingham
Lucerne

Nottingham 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 Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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

Is Nottingham or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Lucerne

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

Nottingham is a very walkable destination. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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 Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Lucerne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Lucerne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lucerne than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

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

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

One day in Nottingham or Lucerne?

In Nottingham, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the scenic city of Lucerne, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lucerne, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Lucerne?

In Nottingham, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Nottingham has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Lucerne, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Lucerne?

Nottingham 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.

Lucerne, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Nottingham or Lucerne?

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

Lucerne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Lucerne is £172. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Lucerne £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Lucerne £220
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Lucerne

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

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Lucerne


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


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Lucerne £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Lucerne £50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

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

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Lucerne £27

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $279
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $153
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

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


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

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Lucerne £18

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

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

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Lucerne?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Lucerne, 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 Nottingham or Lucerne?

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 Nottingham or Lucerne in the Summer?

Both Lucerne and Nottingham during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nottingham is generally cooler than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than Lucerne. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Lucerne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Lucerne. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, 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.

Nottingham is cooler than Lucerne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lucerne during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Lucerne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Lucerne. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. Nottingham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nottingham is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Lucerne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Lucerne. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Nottingham or Lucerne in the Spring?

Both Lucerne and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Nottingham is generally cooler than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lucerne during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Nottingham

Nottingham Lucerne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)