Friendly hostel in historic building near train station offers budget accommodation, shared kitchen, and social events. Perfect for backpackers exploring central Switzerland.
Lucerne Backpackers is an independently operated hostel housed in a colourful converted building at Alpenquai 42 on the southern bank of Lake Lucerne, approximately five minutes on foot from Luzern Hauptbahnhof and ten minutes from the Chapel Bridge. The location sits on a quiet stretch of the lakefront promenade, giving guests direct access to one of Switzerland's most scenic waterfronts without the higher nightly rates charged by the surrounding mid-range hotels. The hostel offers a range of accommodation from dormitories of four to eight beds through to private double rooms; all share clean communal bathrooms on each floor. A fully equipped shared kitchen enables self-catering, which is particularly useful in Lucerne where dining out can be expensive. Common areas include a lounge with board games and local information, and the hostel is known for a welcoming, sociable atmosphere that makes it easy for solo travellers to connect. Bike rental is available on-site, giving guests the option to cycle the flat lakeside path east toward Tribschen or west toward Tribschenmoos nature reserve. The front-desk team regularly assists with bookings for Mount Pilatus, the Rigi, and Titlis excursions, and can advise on the best-value day-trip combinations using Swiss public transport. Luggage storage is provided before check-in and after check-out. The Alpenquai neighbourhood has several independent cafes and a small supermarket within a block of the hostel entrance.
Amenities
- shared kitchen
- lounge
- luggage storage
- bike rental
- laundry
Location
Alpenquai 42, 6005 Luzern
47.0444, 8.3086 View on map
Highlights
- Lakefront location on Alpenquai, five minutes' walk from Lucerne train station
- Sociable atmosphere with shared kitchen, lounge, and regular solo-traveller mixing
- On-site bike rental for flat lakeside cycling toward Tribschen and Tribschenmoos
- Choice of dormitories and private rooms with independent management flexibility
- Helpful desk team for planning Pilatus, Rigi, and Titlis day trips
Tips for visiting
- Book private rooms well ahead in summer — they sell out faster than dorms and are excellent value for couples
- The lakeside path west of the hostel leads to a free swimming area at Lido Luzern, open June to September
- A combination ticket for Mount Pilatus via cogwheel train and aerial gondola can be purchased at the desk for a slight discount
- Self-catering for at least one meal per day in the shared kitchen makes a meaningful difference to the daily budget
- Arriving by train is the easiest option — the hostel is signposted from the station's south exit
Accessibility
Lucerne Backpackers is housed in a converted building with stairs between floors. There is no lift. Guests with mobility requirements are advised to contact the hostel before booking, as the current layout is not fully wheelchair accessible.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age to stay at Lucerne Backpackers?
The hostel accommodates guests of all ages. Children are welcome in private rooms when accompanied by a parent or guardian. The dormitories are typically preferred by adult travellers aged 18 and over.
Is there a curfew at the hostel?
There is no overnight curfew. Guests receive a code for the entrance after evening reception hours close. The team asks that guests be considerate of noise after midnight in shared dormitory areas.
Can luggage be stored before check-in?
Yes, luggage storage is available from early morning on arrival day and for several hours after check-out. A small fee may apply; confirm with reception on arrival.