Chapel Bridge & Water Tower
Europe's oldest covered wooden bridge, adorned with 17th-century paintings and a historic water tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Longer daylight for photos
Chapel Bridge & Water Tower
Best Time
Longer daylight for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's oldest covered wooden bridge, adorned with 17th-century paintings and a historic water tower.
"A must-see iconic spot in Luzern, you cannot miss it for first time visit to Luzern."
📸 Capture the Magic
Get postcard-perfect shots day or night, but expect crowds. Early morning or late evening is best for fewer people.
🖼️ Admire the Art
Don't miss the detailed 17th-century paintings inside the bridge's roof. Some areas show signs of past fire damage.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Chapel Bridge
Reuss River
A historic wooden covered bridge, adorned with 17th-century paintings depicting Lucerne's history.
The Water Tower
Center of Chapel Bridge
A striking octagonal stone tower, once a prison and torture chamber, now a symbol of Lucerne.
Interior Paintings
Inside Chapel Bridge
Discover triangular paintings in the roof depicting historical events and patron saints.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
A Piece of History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Luzern, Switzerland's Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. While it was partially destroyed in a fire in '93, the bridge shows off its surviving 17th century paintings above the walkway, that detail events of the city's history. [OC]
📸 Capture the Magic
Get postcard-perfect shots day or night, but expect crowds. Early morning or late evening is best for fewer people.
🖼️ Admire the Art
Don't miss the detailed 17th-century paintings inside the bridge's roof. Some areas show signs of past fire damage.
Kapellbrucke Chapel Bridge - Lucerne, Switzerland
The chapel bridge in Lucerne (Switzerland). Build in medival times and burned down in 1993. There were proposals to build a more moderne bridge instead but it was decided to rebuild and restore it. Litteraly Phoenix rising from the ashes.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a walk across the ancient bridge for wonderful old town views. Entry is free!
🛍️ Souvenir Stop
A souvenir shop is located in the middle of the bridge for unique mementos.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Magic
Get postcard-perfect shots day or night, but expect crowds. Early morning or late evening is best for fewer people.
🖼️ Admire the Art
Don't miss the detailed 17th-century paintings inside the bridge's roof. Some areas show signs of past fire damage.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a walk across the ancient bridge for wonderful old town views. Entry is free!
🛍️ Souvenir Stop
A souvenir shop is located in the middle of the bridge for unique mementos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chapel Bridge & Water Tower is a universally loved landmark in Lucerne, praised for its timeless beauty and historical significance. Visitors are captivated by the charming wooden bridge, the intricate 17th-century paintings, and the picturesque views. While it can get crowded, the free entry and central location make it an unmissable experience for any first-time visitor.
"A must see iconic spot in Luzern, you cannot miss it for first time visit to Luzern. It can be seen after step out from the Luzern train station.
There are lots of restaurants and cafe by one side of the bridge. There is also a good view of the church behind."
sunny chan
"This place is timeless and luv the bustling vibe of this town .. great postcard photo of the Chapel
Bridge at the lake day or at night but at most times crowded. Lots of restaurants nearby."
Lyn VR
"Really beautiful wooden covered bridge.
Very well preserved.
Beautiful scenery from the bridge and around the bridge.
Entry is free of charge.
There are beautiful painted interior triangular frames dating back to the 17th all along the bridge.
There's a souvenir shop in the middle of the bridge."
Marta D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chapel Bridge & Water Tower is conveniently located just a short walk from the Lucerne train station, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving by train.
Parking in Lucerne can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport or walk from the train station. If driving, look for nearby parking garages.
Yes, Lucerne has an excellent public transport system. Buses stop frequently near the bridge, and it's a central point in the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Chapel Bridge and the surrounding area is free of charge, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
Chapel Bridge is accessible at all times as it's an outdoor landmark. The Water Tower may have specific visiting hours if you wish to enter, though it's often viewed from the outside.
No, tickets are not required as access to the bridge itself is free. You can explore it at your leisure.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best photographic opportunities with fewer crowds, aim for early mornings or late evenings. Summer evenings offer beautiful light as it doesn't get dark until late.
The classic view from the riverbanks, the bridge itself with the Water Tower, and the interior paintings offer diverse photographic subjects. Capturing the reflections in the water is also popular.
Yes, you can take photos inside Chapel Bridge to capture the unique 17th-century paintings. Be mindful of other visitors.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
You can walk across the historic wooden bridge, admire the 17th-century paintings inside, and enjoy views of the Reuss River and the city. The Water Tower is also a prominent feature.
The bridge is a historic structure and may have uneven surfaces. While generally walkable, those with significant mobility issues might find it challenging. The surrounding areas are more accessible.
Restroom facilities are available in the vicinity, particularly in the cafes and restaurants located along the riverbanks near the bridge.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are numerous restaurants and cafes located on one side of the bridge, offering various dining options with views of the water.
While there are no dining establishments directly on the bridge itself, you can find a souvenir shop in the middle. Dining is available at the establishments adjacent to the bridge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♂️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Resilience of Chapel Bridge
The paintings that adorn the triangular roof panels inside the bridge are a major draw. Dating back to the 17th century, they were created by local artist Hans Heinrich Wägmann and depict scenes from Lucerne's history and the lives of its patron saints. While some were lost in the fire, many were salvaged and restored, and new ones were added. The Water Tower, standing adjacent to the bridge, is even older, dating back to the 13th century, and has served various purposes, including as a prison and a treasury.
Experiencing Chapel Bridge: Tips from Travelers
While the bridge is a reproduction in parts due to the fire, its charm and historical significance remain undiminished.
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