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Swimming beach in Luzern?

My husband loves to swim in a lake (or suitable river) wherever we go. What is the closest swimming beach to the Luzern train station? I will be choosing a hotel near there, and recall seeing one hotel that said they were within 11 minutes’ walk of a swimming beach. But I don’t remember which hotel that was! I have looked at most of the ones close to the train station for our night’s lodging. And I don’t see a designated swimming beach near the station when I look around on Google satellite view ( although Alpenquai is a possibility).

We will be arriving by train around noon in late August, and plan to drop our luggage at the hotel and then go for a walk and a swim if possible.

Thanks for your help.

Posted by
408 posts

There are 3 main options in central Luzern. First is Ufschötti park (off of Alpenquai) which is not too far from the train station and the Radisson Blu. You can swim here for free, no frills. The park area is very popular with young people for barbecues and hanging out - earlier in the day, there are also plenty of families, but it can get more of a party vibe towards the evening just fyi.
https://www.luzern.com/en/highlights/the-lake/ufschoetti-lucerne/

Other options:
The Lido (near the Transport Museum) is a large swimming area on the other side of the lake with a sand beach, pier, lawns for sunbathing, changing rooms, lockers, snack bar etc. Very popular with families. You pay 8-10 francs entry fee depending on the day https://www.luzern.com/en/things-to-do/wellness-bathing/bathing-areas-and-outdoor-pools/lucerne-lido/
https://www.lido-luzern.ch/english/

Seebad: along the promenade, near the fancy hotels along the lake. This is a relaxed place with a nice bar (which stays open until 11pm) and small cafe. You can sunbathe on the wooden patio structure or swim directly into the lake. More adults than families. Costs 6chf (cheaper mid day or evenings). Nice to stop by at lunch time for a swim and light meal.
https://www.luzern.com/en/highlights/the-lake/seebad-lucerne/

Posted by
17422 posts

Thank you so much; this is very helpful. Ufschötti is perfect for his needs, and will be close enough we can go twice—-early afternoon and again in early evening. “No frills” describes his swimming style perfectly.

This will be on a Monday, so hopefully not too crowded. If we chose to bring a picnic for dinner, would it be OK to have wine in a public park like that? We have been in Switzerland many times, but I am not familiar with the laws regarding public consumption of alcohol.

Posted by
408 posts

It's usually calmer on weekdays. And drinking in public places is legal in Switzerland, so no problem to bring wine/beer/etc with a picnic.

Posted by
4853 posts

just ask your hotel once you pick one, they will know