Discover medieval Lucerne by night. Join the Nightwatchman for ghost stories, legends, and hidden gems. Experience history with a costumed guide.
Discover medieval Lucerne by night. Join the Nightwatchman for ghost stories, legends, and hidden gems. Experience history with a costumed guide.
- Peter’s Chapel - The tour begins with the sound of the fire horn and an invocation prayer. The Nightwatchman shares stories of his challenging life during the Middle Ages. Using a projector, he introduces medieval Lucerne, providing a detailed view of the Martini plan, the first city map of Lucerne from 1597. The map reveals that many buildings…
- Peter’s Chapel - The tour begins with the sound of the fire horn and an invocation prayer. The Nightwatchman shares stories of his challenging life during the Middle Ages. Using a projector, he introduces medieval Lucerne, providing a detailed view of the Martini plan, the first city map of Lucerne from 1597. The map reveals that many buildings still exist today. St. Peter’s Chapel, the town’s first church from the 12th century, is highlighted. Nearby, the first private stone house of Lucerne is seen, and the origin of the phrase “stone rich” is explained.
- Chapel Bridge - Did you know the Water Tower predates the Chapel Bridge by several decades? The Water Tower was constructed in the late 13th century, while the Chapel Bridge dates to 1365. You view images of the Water Tower’s interior and learn about its torture chamber, dungeon, and secret room. Additionally, the origin of the Chapel Bridge’s name is revealed.
- Furrengasse - Turning the corner to Kapellplatz, you hear about life in the flourishing Republic of Lucerne during the Middle Ages. Walking through Furrengasse, you learn about its Ghost and the Toggeli (Incubus, also known as “love robber”) associated with it.
- Kornmarkt - Arriving at Town Hall Square, known as Kornmarkt, you learn about the Renaissance Town Hall and its Tower, which lacks a minute hand on its clock. The tale of the “Giant of Reiden” is shared, and you see the Lucerne Foot and Elle, the official measurements of Old Lucerne.
- Brandgässli - In Brandgässli Alley, you discover the Riot of Lucerne before proceeding to the former fish market, now known as the wine market.
- Weinmarkt - At Weinmarkt, you admire the old guest house signs and the frescoes on the buildings. On the former pharmacy house of Renward Cysat, you read the Latin phrase: “Amor medicabillis nullis herbis,” meaning “There is no cure for a broken heart.” While listening to the Nightwatchman discuss reformation and counter-reformation, you enjoy a glass of Lucerne’s finest water. You then pass the lower wine market, once the site of the pillory.
- Im Zöpfli - At the riverside square “Zöpfli,” you learn about law and order in old Lucerne. Projected paintings depict the methods of prosecution, interrogation, and corporal punishment during the Middle Ages in Lucerne.
- Reussbrücke - Crossing the “Reussbrücke” bridge, you see the Spreuerbruecke (Mill Bridge), the Needle Dam, and parts of the Musegg Wall.
- Alte Suidtersche Apotheke - A few steps further, you arrive at the stunning medieval pharmacy window of the “Alte Suidtersche Apotheke.” The Nightwatchman shares more about the house and its location.
- Ritterscher Palast - Continuing the tour, the Nightwatchman shows some “Guardian Demons.” You stop at the legendary house of Lux Ritter and learn why the first two floors differ from the third. The story of “Hans von Trient,” the unfortunate stonemason, is told. Another highlight is the presentation of the seven paintings of the Dance of Death, projected on a house wall, with details provided by your guide.
- Jesuitenkirche - Passing the Church of the Jesuits, the first baroque building in Switzerland from 1677.
- Chapel Bridge - Crossing the Chapel Bridge, you view the paintings and discover why the bridge is built diagonally over the river. The tour concludes at the starting point at the end of the bridge.

- Medievally dressed Local guide
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Some exclusive post cards featuring Old Lucerne
- Medievally dressed Local guide
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Some exclusive post cards featuring Old Lucerne
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
Explore medieval Lucerne on the Nightwatchman Walking Tour. See the illuminated attractions and hear the comments and background stories of the Nightwatchman. You will hear about ghosts, demons and witches and the Legend of the Riot of Lucerne. You will learn about living in Lucerne in the middle ages, you get information about law and order of that…
Explore medieval Lucerne on the Nightwatchman Walking Tour. See the illuminated attractions and hear the comments and background stories of the Nightwatchman. You will hear about ghosts, demons and witches and the Legend of the Riot of Lucerne. You will learn about living in Lucerne in the middle ages, you get information about law and order of that time. The Nightwatchman Guide is dressed in medieval style and equipped with a traditional Swiss halberd. He takes you through narrow streets and hidden places of the historic Centre of Lucerne. The tour is surrounded by pictures presented with a projector, on iPad and on postcards.
- Children up to twelve years old are free but must be accompanied by an adult
- Tours take place rain, snow or shine. It is recommended to dress appropriately for the weather and bring an umbrella or rain coat.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.