Five reasons why you should book this premium Swiss holiday

Discover the Legends of Lake Lucerne on this epic day trip
Tourism Switzerland
Photograph: Beat Brechbühl
Written by Time Out in partnership with Tourism Switzerland.
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While you may have heard of the city of Lucerne, we’re almost certain you haven’t had the chance to join the Legends of Lake Lucerne, a premium once-in-a-lifetime voyage through the world of nature, history and maritime nostalgia. Onboard, you’ll get to taste a world-class, meticulously crafted five-course menu, prepared using only the finest local ingredients while enjoying an intimate setting with a limited number of guests as you listen to the crew’s tall tales. And if that’s not enough, gliding across crystal clear waters aboard a 100-year-old paddle steamer on Lake Lucerne as you pass legendary sites like the historic Rütli Meadow and jaw-dropping landscapes should do the trick.

The Legends of Lake Lucerne trips run daily from May 15 to September 15 2025.

The historic steamship, The Gallia

As an esteemed steamship steeped in history and elegance, The Gallia has graced the waters of Lake Lucerne with its presence since 1913. Combining classic Swiss engineering with nostalgic maritime vibes, the ship’s dazzling New Empire-style interiors provide the ideal setting for this remarkable journey. Offering its passengers (65 only) a bespoke five-hour experience – complete with a glass of bubbles – you’ll journey from Lucerne past Weggis and Beckenried and finally into the Urnersee. Here, you’ll absorb breathtaking views of iconic landmarks, Rütli Meadow and Tell’s Chapel, before soaking up the rest the trip has to offer.

The memorable culinary experience

Here for the food? We don’t blame you. This refined cruise is so much more than a day trip on a boat – it’s a true celebration of fine dining and discovery. The curated five-course menu – crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients – creates an impressive fusion of contemporary culinary creativity and traditional Swiss flavours. From succulent Swiss beef Tenderloin to the delicate flavours of local zander, each dish tells its own story of the land and reflects the region's culinary traditions. Need a little more convincing? Each course is paired with a great wine, and the service is impeccable from start to finish. The bespoke ‘flying service’ concept allows three of the five courses to be enjoyed wherever you wish, so you never miss a moment of stunning views.

Service with a personal touch

One of the most memorable parts of this voyage is the opportunity to learn from and engage with the captain and their crew who consider this area home. They’ll talk you through the intricacies of working with the Gallia’s century-old steam engine (yes, really), the challenges of navigating the iconic Lake Lucerne and the occasional captivating crew story or two thrown in for good measure. Where else will you get to enjoy genuine conversations like this? The friendly and passionate hosts work with heart and dedication, ensuring that every guest feels not just welcomed but personally accompanied on board. Whether you’re here for the views, the food or the history, the chance to learn from the people who run this incredible vessel is a very special and memorable one.

The Living Maritime legacy

Revel in the extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the Living Maritime legacy on board this century-old paddle steamer – a true testament to Swiss hospitality and heritage. Today, these majestic vessels have become a defining symbol of the region’s mindblowing landscape – where aboard the Legends of Lake Lucerne trip, you don’t just get to see the legacy; you get to experience it first-hand. Oh, and if that’s not enough of a bragging right, you’ll also join in The Gallia’s ambitious and sustainable vision for the future: to partially operate on solar fuel developed by Swiss company, Synhelion. This is so much more than a tourist attraction; it’s a moment in Swiss-tory you get to be a part of.

The chance to treat yourself – or a loved one

Whether you’re looking to gift your loved one a unique adventure for an anniversary or birthday – or treat yourself to a once-in-a-maritime memory – the Legends of Lake Lucerne is a fool-proof, premium expedition that will be treasured forever by anyone who joins it. Promising an unforgettable experience of indulgence, refinement and nostalgia, this special gift is guaranteed to please anyone who hops aboard The Gallia and her 100-year-old history. And in case we haven’t said enough already, there’s a wonderful sense of tranquillity aboard the old girl, creating an ideal opportunity to sit back, relax and soak up the views as you cruise over those crisp, Swiss waters. See you there?

Book your Legends of Lake Lucerne trip here

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