Lucerne City Walls (Museggmauer) are a crucial historical landmark of Lucerne, Switzerland. Constructed in the 13th–14th centuries, the walls were designed to defend the city from invasions and protect a central hub of trade, transport, and governance.

The walls extend several hundred meters and include nine watchtowers, with the Musegg Tower standing out as one of the most iconic and well-preserved medieval structures in Switzerland. Built using local stone and brick, the walls and towers are strong, tall, and thick, optimized for city defense.

A key highlight is the Zytturm Tower, famous for its large historic clock, which has the unique privilege of chiming one minute before all other clocks in the city—a tradition that dates back several centuries.

Although there are nine towers in total, typically only four towers are open for visitors to climb. Each tower offers breathtaking views of Lucerne Old Town, Lake Lucerne, and the surrounding Alps.

Today, the wall and its surroundings also host cultural events, music festivals, and annual city celebrations, allowing visitors to experience both Lucerne’s living culture and its rich historical heritage. The Museggmauer exemplifies the evolution of city fortifications in medieval Europe and is a must-visit landmark for travelers to Lucerne.

• From Lucerne Main Station: Approximately 15–20 minutes on foot through the Old Town

• By bus: Take routes passing Schwanenplatz and walk uphill to the wall

• By car: Public parking is available in the Old Town; follow marked paths to the walls

• Pathways to towers are sometimes steep; wear suitable footwear

• Best visited during spring and summer when towers are open

• Morning visits help avoid crowds and provide optimal lighting for photography

• Paths along the walls can be steep or slippery, especially in wet weather

• Zytturm and the area between 3–4 towers offer the most scenic photo spots

Admission Fee:

• Outer wall walk: Free, accessible all year

• Towers: Free

• No entrance fees are charged for any part of the Museggmauer

Opening Time:

• Outer Wall Area: Open 24 hours, year-round

• Towers:

  • Seasonal: 1 April – 1 November

  • Hours: 08:00 – 19:00

  • Note: Towers may close temporarily during snowfall or adverse weather conditions

Additional Notes:

• Check the official Museggmauer / Lucerne Tourism website for exact opening times, especially in early April or late October

• Weather may affect tower access; closures can occur with snow, rain, or icy paths

• Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for climbing the towers