Is Lungern, with its impossibly turquoise lake and hillside chalets, Switzerland’s most beautiful village? Stand at its iconic viewpoint, and you’ll find it hard to disagree. But getting that perfect, postcard-worthy experience isn’t just about showing up.
Many visitors miss the most magical moment: the jaw-dropping reveal of the lake from the train window. Others get confused by Swiss parking rules or can’t find that one secret photo spot. This guide is different. It’s built on real traveler experiences to ensure you don’t just visit Lungern—you experience it perfectly.
Is Lungern Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. If you are traveling between Lucerne and Interlaken, Lungern is a must-see. It offers the quintessential Swiss alpine scenery—a stunning lake, traditional wooden houses, a charming church, and a dramatic mountain backdrop—all packed into a small, accessible area. It feels more peaceful and less crowded than many larger tourist hubs, offering a genuine escape.
How to Get to Lungern
Lungern is conveniently located on the famous Golden Pass scenic train line, making it easily accessible.
By Train: The Smartest Way to Arrive
The train journey itself is a highlight of any trip to Lungern, offering spectacular views along the way.
- Train Station: Lungern
- Route: Part of the Luzern – Interlaken Ost line.
- Travel Time from Lucerne: Approximately 50 minutes.
- Travel Time from Interlaken Ost: Approximately 40 minutes.
CRUCIAL PRO TIP: The single most important piece of advice for this trip is which side of the train to sit on. To witness the iconic view of the turquoise lake suddenly appearing as the train rounds the mountain, you MUST sit on the right side of the train, relative to the direction of travel. This is true whether you’re coming from Lucerne or Interlaken. So many people get this wrong and miss the collective gasp from passengers as the valley opens up below.
By Car
Driving offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, knowing the local parking rules is essential to avoid a hefty fine.
A Quick Guide to Parking in Lungern
Parking in Swiss villages can be tricky. Here’s a simple breakdown based on the painted lines:
- White Lines: Generally free and unlimited parking, unless a sign says otherwise. These are your best bet.
- Blue Lines: This indicates a “Blue Zone.” You can park for free for a limited time (usually 1-2 hours), but you must display a blue parking disc (your rental car should have one). Set the disc to your arrival time.
- Yellow Lines: Do not park here. These are private or reserved spots.
You can find paid parking lots near the train station (Parkplatz Bahnhof) and along the main lake road (Seestrasse).
The 2 Best Photo Spots for Unforgettable Views
Lungern is incredibly photogenic. Here are the two viewpoints you absolutely cannot miss.
1. The Classic Panoramic Viewpoint
This is the “king” of all photo spots, offering a top-down view of the entire village, church, and lake. It’s the picture you’ve seen on Instagram.
- How to get there: From the train station, turn right and walk up the hill. Follow signs or navigate to Viewpoint Lungern on Google Maps. It’s a short, steep 10-minute walk.
- An important note: Some online sources or Google Maps may occasionally report this specific spot as “closed.” Don’t worry. The entire hillside path offers spectacular, open views. You don’t need to stand on one specific platform to get an amazing shot. Just walk up and find a spot you love.
2. The Secret Lighthouse Bridge (An Insider’s Gem)
For a unique and much quieter spot, venture a bit further. If you continue along the S-curve road past the main viewpoint area, you’ll come across a charming bridge that feels like it’s from another world. Very few tourists make it here, making it perfect for undisturbed photos and a moment of peace.
Lungern Trip FAQ
How much time should I spend in Lungern?
It depends on your mode of transport. If arriving by train just for the main viewpoint, 1.5 to 2 hours is enough time for the walk and photos. If you’re driving, plan for half a day (3-4 hours) to explore both viewpoints, walk by the lake, and soak in the atmosphere without rushing.
Can you swim in Lake Lungern?
Yes, swimming is popular in the summer! There are designated swimming areas (known as “badi”) and spots along the shore where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear alpine water.