Lucerne, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, is a destination that offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. While it’s known for being a somewhat pricey destination, it doesn’t mean that budget-conscious travelers can’t find affordable accommodation options. During my trip to Lucerne, I managed to stay at a budget-friendly hotel that provided both comfort and convenience.
My Stay at ibis budget Hotel Luzern City
During my time in Lucerne, I chose to stay at the ibis budget Hotel Luzern City, and it turned out to be an excellent decision for both my budget and my travel needs.
Location:
The hotel is located on Kellerstrasse 6, about a 15-minute walk from the Lucerne train station and just a short distance from the main attractions like the Chapel Bridge and the Old Town. This location was incredibly convenient as it allowed me to explore the city without spending too much on transportation.
How to Book:
I booked my stay through the Accor Hotels website, but you can also book through popular platforms like Booking.com or Hotels.com. The process was seamless, and I was able to find a discounted rate for a three-night stay by booking a couple of months in advance. One of the perks of booking early is that I also got access to flexible cancellation options, which gave me peace of mind in case my plans changed.
How to Get There:
From Zurich airport, I took a direct train to Lucerne, which took around an hour. Upon arriving at Lucerne train station, I decided to walk to the hotel. The route was straightforward, and I enjoyed strolling through the streets while taking in the picturesque surroundings. However, if you prefer public transport, there’s a bus that stops right outside the hotel, making it even more accessible.
The Environment and Ambience:
Despite being a budget hotel, ibis budget Luzern City had a welcoming atmosphere. The lobby area was clean and modern, with a 24-hour front desk and helpful staff who spoke multiple languages. The minimalist design made the space feel open and functional. The hotel wasn’t luxurious by any means, but it was comfortable, which was exactly what I needed after a day of sightseeing.
Facilities:
While the rooms were compact, they were well-designed and included all the essentials—free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The bed was surprisingly comfortable, and there was a small desk space where I could sit and plan my itinerary for the next day. The bathroom was small, but clean and functional. One thing to note is that the hotel doesn’t offer many in-room amenities like a coffee maker or mini-fridge, but that’s to be expected in a budget hotel.
The hotel also offers a buffet breakfast for an additional fee, but I opted to explore local cafes instead. However, for those who prefer convenience, the breakfast spread looked decent, with a selection of bread, cereals, yogurt, and fresh fruit.
My Stay Experience:
I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet the hotel was despite its central location. My room faced an inner courtyard, so I didn’t experience any noise disturbances, even though the hotel was fairly busy. The staff were friendly and accommodating, always available to provide tips on where to eat or how to get around the city. What I appreciated most was the value for money—ibis budget Luzern City gave me a comfortable place to rest without breaking the bank.
My Rating:
For budget travelers, I would rate ibis budget Luzern City 4.5/5. It’s affordable, conveniently located, and offers everything you need for a short stay in Lucerne. The rooms may be small, but they’re clean, modern, and perfect for someone like me who spent most of their time exploring the city.
Other Affordable Hotels in Lucerne
While I didn’t stay at the following hotels, they are highly recommended for budget-conscious travelers based on their reviews and offerings.
Hotel Alpha
Location:
Hotel Alpha is located on Zähringerstrasse 24, about a 10-minute walk from Lucerne’s Old Town and the train station. The location makes it perfect for tourists who want easy access to Lucerne’s top attractions without needing to rely on public transport.
How to Book:
You can book through Booking.com, Expedia, or directly on the hotel’s website. It often features discounted rates, especially for early bookings or extended stays.
Facilities:
Though a budget hotel, Hotel Alpha offers more spacious rooms than most in the same price range. The rooms are simple but clean, with free Wi-Fi, shared or private bathrooms (depending on your room type), and daily housekeeping. The hotel also provides a breakfast buffet included in most rates, which is a great perk for budget travelers looking to save on meals.
Why It’s Great for Budget Travelers:
Hotel Alpha stands out because of its location and affordability. It’s slightly dated in terms of decor, but it offers all the necessary comforts for a budget-friendly stay. The staff is known to be helpful, and the hotel is set in a quiet neighborhood, allowing guests to enjoy peaceful nights after a day of exploring.
Hotel Falken
Location:
Located on Falkengasse 6, Hotel Falken is just steps away from Lucerne’s famous Chapel Bridge and Old Town. This location is unbeatable for travelers who want to be right in the center of the action.
How to Book:
Hotel Falken is available on booking platforms like Agoda and Hotels.com. They often offer discounted rates if booked in advance or during off-peak travel seasons.
Facilities:
Hotel Falken offers rooms equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. The rooms are compact but efficiently designed. While it doesn’t offer breakfast, the hotel is surrounded by cafes and bakeries, making it easy to grab a bite in the morning.
Why It’s Great for Budget Travelers:
What sets Hotel Falken apart is its prime location at an affordable price. Guests can easily walk to most of Lucerne’s top attractions, including the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and the lakefront. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who prioritize location and don’t mind a smaller room.
Backpackers Lucerne
Location:
Backpackers Lucerne is located on Alpenquai 42, right by Lake Lucerne. It’s a little further from the city center, about a 20-minute walk, but the peaceful lakefront setting makes up for the distance.
How to Book:
You can book a stay at Backpackers Lucerne through their official website or popular hostel booking platforms like Hostelworld.
Facilities:
This hostel is perfect for budget travelers who don’t mind staying in a shared space. It offers dormitory-style accommodation as well as private rooms, all at a very affordable rate. Each guest has access to shared kitchen facilities, which is a great way to save money on meals. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hostel, and there’s also a communal lounge area where guests can relax and meet fellow travelers.
Why It’s Great for Budget Travelers:
Backpackers Lucerne is ideal for solo travelers or groups looking for cheap, no-frills accommodation. The proximity to the lake also means you can enjoy beautiful views and walks along the water without spending a fortune.
Bellpark Hostel
Location:
Located on Luzernerstrasse 23, Bellpark Hostel is just outside Lucerne’s city center but well-connected by bus (bus stop is right in front of the hostel). It’s a bit further away from the major tourist attractions, but the bus service is frequent and easy to use.
How to Book:
Bellpark Hostel can be booked through platforms like Hostelworld or directly on their website, which often features the best deals for longer stays.
Facilities:
Bellpark Hostel offers dormitory-style rooms as well as private rooms for those who want more privacy. One of the best features of this hostel is the free breakfast, which includes pancakes—a nice bonus for budget travelers! Guests also have access to a shared kitchen, and there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Why It’s Great for Budget Travelers:
This hostel is a fantastic option for those looking to keep costs low while still enjoying a comfortable stay. The friendly atmosphere and free breakfast are big draws for travelers on a tight budget.
Lucerne Youth Hostel
Location:
The Lucerne Youth Hostel is located on Sedelstrasse 12, a bit outside the city center but easily accessible by bus. It’s about a 30-minute walk from Lucerne’s main attractions, but the serene setting makes it a peaceful place to stay.
How to Book:
You can book through Hostelling International or directly on the hostel’s website. Youth Hostel members often get a discount, making it even more affordable.
Facilities:
This hostel offers a variety of room types, including dormitory beds and private rooms. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and a restaurant that serves dinner for an additional cost. A breakfast buffet is included in the room rate, which is a great value.
Why It’s Great for Budget Travelers:
Lucerne Youth Hostel is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to enjoy nature while staying on a budget. The surrounding area is quiet and green, and the hostel offers plenty of amenities for the price.
Lucerne may be known for its high-end accommodations, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers who want to experience the city without overspending. Whether you’re looking for a no-frills hotel like ibis budget Luzern City, a charming guesthouse like Hotel Alpha, or a lively hostel like Backpackers Lucerne, there’s something for every traveler. Each of these options offers comfort, convenience, and affordability—so you can focus on exploring Lucerne’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.
