Hergiswil Glassworks - Greenhouses and pathways lead to a white building.
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Hergiswil Glassworks

4.7
·2k reviews·Hergiswil, Switzerland

Witness the magic of glassmaking, create your own souvenir, and enjoy family fun at this historic Swiss glassworks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
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Hergiswil Glassworks - Greenhouses and pathways lead to a white building.

Hergiswil Glassworks

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the magic of glassmaking, create your own souvenir, and enjoy family fun at this historic Swiss glassworks.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A national treasure! Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Well worth the time, and a great value."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially in the hot factory. Comfortable footwear is a must.

Book glass blowing ahead :ticket:

The 'blow your own glass ball' experience is popular. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Glassblowing Demonstration

Live Glassblowing Demonstration

Factory Floor

Witness the mesmerizing process of molten glass being transformed into beautiful objects right before your eyes. It's hot, mesmerizing, and truly unique!

Blow Your Own Glass Ball

Blow Your Own Glass Ball

Designated Workshop Area

Get hands-on and create your own personalized glass souvenir under expert guidance. A truly unforgettable and unique experience!

Glass Labyrinth Adventure

Glass Labyrinth Adventure

Outdoor Area

Navigate a fun and challenging maze made of glass panels. A delightful activity for all ages, offering a playful twist on the material.

Interactive Glass Music & Playground

Interactive Glass Music & Playground

Free Access Area

Experiment with sound using glass objects and let kids burn energy on the playground with a thrilling slide and giant marble run.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Glasi Hergiswil

Allow at least 3 hours to fully explore the factory, museum, playground, and glass labyrinth. Consider booking a glass-blowing session in advance for a unique souvenir. Check opening hours, especially for the production area, as it's a working factory.

Family Fun & Free Attractions

While the museum and labyrinth have an entry fee, the playground, water play area, and a section for interactive glass music are free. The factory viewing is also free, making it a great option for budget-conscious families. Don't miss the impressive marble run!

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Production usually active
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family peak time
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially in the hot factory. Comfortable footwear is a must.

Book glass blowing ahead :ticket:

The 'blow your own glass ball' experience is popular. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Free fun for kids :smiley:

The playground, water play, and interactive music area are free and fantastic for children. Don't miss the marble run!

Bring cash for marbles :moneybag:

You can buy beautiful glass marbles made on-site from a vending machine. A small, affordable souvenir.

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially in the hot factory. Comfortable footwear is a must.

Book glass blowing ahead :ticket:

The 'blow your own glass ball' experience is popular. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Free fun for kids :smiley:

The playground, water play, and interactive music area are free and fantastic for children. Don't miss the marble run!

Bring cash for marbles :moneybag:

You can buy beautiful glass marbles made on-site from a vending machine. A small, affordable souvenir.

Check production schedule :calendar:

The factory floor viewing is a highlight. Confirm production times to ensure you see the glassblowing in action.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Glasi Hergiswil for its unique blend of live craft demonstrations, family-friendly attractions, and historical significance. The opportunity to witness glassblowing and even create your own piece is a major highlight, alongside the free playground and interactive areas that delight children. While some find the factory floor very hot, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, offering great value and memorable moments.

"Love glass making and watching. Staff very friendly and I got to blow my own glass ball. Super cool souvenirur."

Deborah Wymann

"A national treasure! Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Well worth the time, and a great value."

Steven Ludwig

"Glasi Hergiswil is a glass factory where you can actually go and watch them make different glass objects on the spot! It is super hot in there, as you can imagine, with the big hot stoves they have, (duh, melting sand!) but it is a super ‘cool’ experience that every age enjoys! We went when the kids were 4 and they are even more interested now when they are older. I wouldn’t recommend the museum with the smaller kids, but the factory, a huge playground with a slide (beware, the slide is super fast!), a dragon and a BIG marble run, as well as the glass labyrinth, all of those are amazing for kids! At the slide/marble run, you can purchase marbles they make in the factory. A bag costs 6.- and is quite affordable. The factory you can visit for free, but the museum and the labyrinth are paid (very reasonable price TBH). The playground is free, the water play behind the building as well, and you get the free beautiful views of the lake. Check out those mountains and colors! Inside, another section is also free to visit, where you can make music with cups, different glass objects, which was actually my favourite bit, and they have a first choice store where you can buy plates, glasses and other things. The second choice store is right across the street. Inside the factory you can pay 20.- and you get to blow your own glass bauble which you can then hang on the ceiling with some fairy lights! Not expensive for such a unique experience!! This place is amazing and you can surely spend some good 3 + hours here. Definitely worth a visit if you are around or want to see something special while visiting Switzerland!"

A. Var (Zee)

What People Like

Live glassblowing demonstrations
Interactive playground & marble run
Blow your own glass ball experience

What People Dislike

Factory floor is very hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hergiswil Glassworks is easily accessible by public transport. Take a train to Hergiswil station, and it's a short walk from there. Driving is also an option with available parking.

Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's convenient if you're arriving by car, though public transport is highly recommended for ease of access.

Absolutely! Hergiswil is very close to Lucerne, making it a perfect and easy day trip. The train ride is short and scenic.

Opening hours can vary, especially for the production area. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on daily operating times.

Generally, the main areas are accessible, but some parts of the factory floor might be uneven. The playground and museum are usually stroller-friendly.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Visiting the factory floor and the interactive music area is free! There's a fee for the museum and the glass labyrinth, which are reasonably priced.

For general entry to the factory and free areas, no advance tickets are needed. However, if you want to participate in the 'blow your own glass ball' workshop, booking ahead is highly recommended.

Tickets typically grant access to the museum and the glass labyrinth. The live glassblowing demonstrations and the playground are usually free to access.

Discounts may be available for children, students, and seniors. It's worth checking their website or inquiring at the entrance for any special offers.

Yes, there are shops selling a variety of glass products, from first-choice items to second-choice items across the street. You can also buy marbles made on-site.

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Many visitors rave about watching the live glassblowing demonstrations and the unique opportunity to blow their own glass ball. The interactive glass music area and the playground are also big hits.

Yes, the factory floor where the glass is made is very hot due to the furnaces. It's an essential part of the experience, so be prepared!

Kids will love the large playground with a fast slide, the dragon, and the impressive marble run. The glass labyrinth and interactive music area are also great fun.

Most visitors spend at least 3 hours to comfortably explore the factory, museum, playground, and labyrinth. You could easily spend longer if you enjoy all the activities.

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions, especially in the museum or during demonstrations.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant on-site that offers a good selection of food. It's a convenient option for lunch or a snack during your visit.

While there are dining options available, picnicking might be possible in designated outdoor areas, especially near the playground. It's best to confirm their policy on outside food.

The restaurant typically offers a range of meals suitable for families, including local Swiss dishes and international options. It's a good place to refuel after exploring.

Most restaurants in Switzerland offer vegetarian options. It's advisable to check the menu or ask the staff about vegan choices if needed.

Besides the main restaurant, there might be smaller snack bars or cafes offering drinks and lighter fare, especially during peak seasons.

📸 📸 Photography

The live glassblowing process offers dramatic shots. The colorful glass objects, the glass labyrinth, and the scenic lake views are also excellent photo subjects.

Yes, you can generally take photos and videos of the glassblowing demonstrations. Capturing the heat, the tools, and the transformation is very rewarding.

While generally permitted, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography in areas where it might be disruptive, such as the museum.

A versatile lens is useful. For the hot factory, consider a lens that can handle heat haze. For the labyrinth, a wide-angle lens can capture the scale.

The views of the lake and surrounding mountains can be beautiful during golden hour. The exterior of the glassworks might also offer nice lighting.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Glasi Hergiswil is a fantastic family outing! The free playground with its epic marble run and fast slide is a huge hit. Reddit Kids will also love the interactive glass music area and the chance to see glass being made. While the museum and labyrinth have a fee, the sheer amount of free entertainment makes it incredibly budget-friendly. Consider the 'blow your own glass ball' experience for a truly unique souvenir, though it's an added cost. Reddit

Plan for at least 3-4 hours to let the kids explore everything. The on-site restaurant offers convenient dining options. Remember to bring comfortable shoes as there's a lot of ground to cover, and perhaps a change of clothes if the water play area is a priority.

💰 Budget Travelers

You can have a wonderful time at Glasi Hergiswil without spending a lot. The factory viewing, playground, water play, and interactive music area are all free! Reddit This offers hours of entertainment. Purchasing marbles from the vending machine is an affordable souvenir option. Reddit

If your budget allows, the museum and glass labyrinth offer additional value for a reasonable price. The 'blow your own glass ball' experience is a splurge but offers a unique memory. Pack a picnic to save on dining costs, as there are pleasant outdoor areas.

💖 Couples & Art Enthusiasts

For couples and art lovers, the live glassblowing demonstrations are a must-see. Witnessing the creation of delicate glass art is a mesmerizing and romantic experience. Reddit The museum section offers a deeper appreciation for the history and artistry of glassmaking. Consider participating in the 'blow your own glass ball' workshop together for a truly unique and collaborative souvenir. Reddit

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the grounds, perhaps with a coffee from the on-site cafe. The scenic lake views provide a beautiful backdrop for a relaxed afternoon. The shops offer exquisite glass pieces for those looking to take a piece of Hergiswil's artistry home.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Glassmaking at Glasi Hergiswil

Glasi Hergiswil is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a living testament to the centuries-old craft of glassmaking. The live demonstrations are the heart of the experience, where skilled artisans transform molten sand into intricate works of art. You'll witness the intense heat of the furnaces and the precise movements required to shape the glass, from delicate vases to robust drinking glasses. It's a fascinating glimpse into a process that requires immense skill, patience, and a deep understanding of the material. Many visitors find the sheer artistry and the raw power of the glassblowing process to be incredibly captivating. Reddit

Beyond the live shows, the museum section delves into the history and evolution of glass production at Hergiswil. You can explore a collection of historical glass pieces and learn about the techniques used throughout the years. This provides valuable context to the live demonstrations and highlights the significance of Glasi Hergiswil as a cultural heritage site. The opportunity to blow your own glass bauble for a fee offers a truly hands-on and memorable takeaway, allowing you to become a part of the glassmaking tradition yourself. Reddit

For those interested in the practicalities, the first and second-choice stores offer a chance to purchase beautiful, handcrafted glass items. Whether you're looking for everyday tableware or unique decorative pieces, there's something for everyone. The second-choice store, located across the street, offers items with minor imperfections at a reduced price, making it a great spot for budget-friendly souvenirs. Reddit

Family Adventures Beyond the Factory

While the glassmaking itself is a draw, Glasi Hergiswil excels as a family destination with a wealth of activities beyond the production floor. The expansive playground is a major highlight for children, featuring a thrillingly fast slide, a dragon sculpture, and an incredibly impressive, giant marble run. Reddit Visitors often mention how much their children enjoy this area, with some returning year after year. The playground is free to access, making it an excellent value for families. Reddit

Adjacent to the playground, you'll find a water play area, perfect for cooling off on warmer days. Another free attraction that captivates visitors is the interactive glass music section, where you can experiment with creating sounds using various glass objects. This area is often cited as a favorite, offering a unique and engaging sensory experience for all ages. Reddit The glass labyrinth provides a fun challenge for families, testing their navigation skills amidst reflective glass panels. While there's a small fee for the labyrinth and museum, the sheer amount of free entertainment makes Glasi Hergiswil a fantastic option for a full day out.

Don't forget to purchase some of the beautiful glass marbles made on-site from the vending machine near the marble run. They offer a delightful and affordable souvenir that captures the essence of the glassworks. Reddit With so much to see and do, it's easy to spend 3+ hours here, ensuring a memorable experience for the entire family.

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