Hofkirche Tours
The Hofkirche (also known as the Church of St. Leodegar) in Lucerne is a mainly 17th-century structure, with two distinctive towers that belonged to an older building on the site. This Roman Catholic Church is one of the most important examples of Renaissance architecture in Switzerland.
The Basics
The Hofkirche was built on the ruins of an eighth-century Romanesque basilica. It was one of the few churches built north of the Alps during the Thirty Years War that raged in Central Europe during the first half of the 17th century. Unlike many churches from the same era, it is modestly decorated with white stone and a gilded altarpiece. Most visitors stop by while touring Lucerne independently or on a guided tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Admission to the church is free.
- The small cemetery and public park beside the church are worth checking out.
- Both the interior and exterior of the church are adorned with statues of saints connected to Lucerne, and there are tombs inside containing the remains of notable citizens of the city.
How to Get There
The Hofkirche is located on a small hill that overlooks the old town of Lucerne. The twin spires are visible from many parts of the city, including the train station. It’s a pleasant walk to the church from the Old Town area, on the northern banks of the Reuss River. The nearest bus stop is Luzernerhof.
When to Get There
The church is normally closed to visitors on Fridays. On other days it’s open from 10am to 12pm, and 2pm until 5pm. Travelers coming to Lucerne in the summer can check out an organ recital in the Hofkirche as part of the Lucerne Festival.
Visit the Lion Monument
In the same area as the Hofkirche is the must-visit Lion Monument. The 32-foot (10-meter) sculpture of a dying lion was carved into a rock face in 1820 by Lukas Ahorn to commemorate the Swiss people who died during the French Revolution of the late 18th century.
Address: Sankt-Leodegar-Strasse, Lucerne 6006, Switzerland
5 Tours and Activities to Experience Hofkirche
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City tour plus Lucerne
Guided private city tour with the most important Lucerne sights.
In addition, the non-tourist areas of the city are shown exclusively with local guides.
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From
$94.90
Price varies by group size
From
$94.90
Price varies by group size
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Luzern City Tour with Lake Cruise Small Group Tour from Luzern
Experience the unique day tour within a small group to city of Luzern. You meet your tour guide in Luzern at the lake cruise pier 1, opposite the train station. Together you will make your way first to the world known wooden chapel bridge. Continue through the old town, passing along the « Kornmarkt », the « Spreuer bridge » to the « Schwanenplatz ». Walk along the lake shore to arrive at the «Lion monument». Your tourguide will tell you the story of this sculpture, before you continue to the St. Leodgar church. A short bus ride to the train station will take place, a stop at the concert hall will take place before, you will board one of the lake Lucerne boats for a cruise. The cruise will take approx. 1 hour. Enjoy the view to the Lucerne bay, the surrounding mountains and the scenery. You will arrive back in central Lucerne by boat. You can extend your stay at your own, or your tourguide leads you back to the train station in Luzern.
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From
$108.29
From
$108.29
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Luzern City Tour with Lake Cruise Private Tour from Luzern
Explore the history and culture of one of the Swiss Alps’ most popular towns on this half-day Lucerne city tour with Lake Lucerne sightseeing boat trip. Follow a private guide along the banks of the Reuss River and choose your own route to take in the attractions of most interest. Delve into Lucerne’s historic Old Town, stroll along the city walls, and see the 16th-century houses for which Lucerne is famous. Then, take a sightseeing boat trip across Lake Lucerne and listen to commentary via audioguide.
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From
$223.29
Price varies by group size
From
$223.29
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Lucerne's Past and Present with Local
This experience is provided by a private local.
Discover the historical side of Lucerne with a passionate local who wants to share all the best-kept secrets of Lucerne with you!
Our excursion will start near the historical museum, in the heart of Lucerne!. You will learn about the various architectural styles from different time periods and find out how the city has changed over time. From visiting churches to discovering the history behind the Musegg Wall or even the Leodegar church, you will encounter unique sites that an ordinary tourist tour won’t show you!
We know that travelling is the best way of learning, and having a knowledgeable local by your side to give you insider tips and share local secrets is even better!
Of course, if you wish to learn about something in particular or have a special interest, just let me know, and I will adjust the itinerary for you!
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From
$138.44
From
$138.44
The heart of Lucerne
Personal tour guide
Custom tailor made tours
Unique experience in Lucerne
Experience Lucerne from another side
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From
$72.57
Price varies by group size
From
$72.57
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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