My family of five is going to Lucerne in late June. I am trying to decide between Pension Villa Maria vs Hotel Baslertor. The latter has much better rates but the reviews online are terrible. Yet it appears in Rick Steves 2010 Switzerland guide (the 2012 guide is not out yet for me to check). The frugal mom in me wants to follow the best deal but not at the risk of a bad experience. Has anyone out there been to either recently? Or have another suggestion? Help
Heidi, I stayed at Hotel Goldener Stern on my last visit to Lucerne, and was quite pleased with the facilities. The room was a bit "compact", but that's often the case with most "singles". It was in a great location, and only about an ten minute walk from the river or rail station. You'll have to check with them to determine if they have rooms that would be suitable for a family of five. They seem to have revised their website since my visit. As with most of Switzerland, the prices in Lucerne can be a bit steep, but unfortunately "it is what it is". While in Lucerne, I would highly recommend the Museum of Transport. It's fantastic! Happy travels!
Heidi, check tripadvisor. Go with what the posters there say. Much more reliable than Rick's suggestions.