Kulinarisch unterwegs: Luzern Culinary City Walk

Kulinarisch unterwegs, meaning roughly "on a culinary journey", is a private guided food walk through the old town of Luzern in central Switzerland, organised by Luzern Tourismus, the city's tourist office at Zentralstrasse 5. It is sold as a group tour rather than per seat: the group price is CHF 320 (about $400 USD) for up to 20 people, plus CHF 30 (about $38 USD) per person for the aperitif and tastings. Date, time and meeting point are agreed when booking, which makes the walk suitable for families, clubs, company outings and other pre-formed groups.

The route covers the historic centre on both sides of the Reuss river, with stops chosen to introduce Luzern specialities. Participants taste a range of local food, including sweets typical of the city, before visiting the Rathaus Brauerei, the local brewery in the old town, where the guide explains how beer is made and served in Luzern. The walk closes with a selection of Swiss cheeses and a glass of wine. The balance is therefore a mix of sweet bites early on, beer and savoury items in the middle, and cheese and wine to finish.

The tour lasts about 2 hours and moves at a walking pace with frequent stops, so it is not rushed. Guides are available in German, English, French, Italian, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish, and the language should be requested when the booking is made. Included in the per-person charge are the aperitif and the tastings; drinks beyond those listed, additional meals and any transport to the meeting point are not included.

Because the tastings include cheese, beer, wine and sweets, groups with allergies, vegetarians or non-drinkers should tell Luzern Tourismus in advance so the stops can be adjusted where possible; the tourist office can be reached on +41 41 227 17 17. The old town is compact, and the route can be adapted to the group's pace, but the cobbled streets and several bridges mean comfortable footwear is advisable. As the walk is private, the group sets its own tone, which suits celebrations and corporate events as well as curious visitors who prefer to avoid public tours.