If you are considering moving to Switzerland, you should certainly consider moving to Lucerne. In this article we explore why it has become a popular choice for expats.
In the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne is a fantastic expatriate destination, only one and a half hours to Bern, and 45 minutes to Zurich. From here regular flights depart to neighbouring France, Italy and Austria every day. Lucerne is the ideal location for anyone who needs to be well-connected to Europe with its domestic and international hub railway station within the city.
Built at the mouth of the river Reuss, feeding into the Lezerner Sea and onto the Lucerne Lake and the stunning Swiss Alps, this beautiful city has an abundance of charm and character with stunning medieval architecture reflecting its millennial heritage.
With a population of around 80,000, this mainly German speaking city is one of the largest in Switzerland. Almost freezing temperatures in the wet winter months cover the region in snow, while average temperatures in July and August reach the mid to late twenties. In any weather, the appeal of Lucerne is irresistible, and tourism is always thriving.
Those who like to challenge themselves physically will not be disappointed moving to Lucerne; it boasts one of the most participated marathons in Switzerland, despite it being a relatively new addition to the city’s packed calendar. It is also annual host to one of the largest athletics meetings in the world.
There is an abundance of water sports available on the Lucerne Lake including water-skiing, rowing and windsurfing. And, of course, within such easy reach of numerous mountains, those with a passion for skiing or snowboarding have plenty of choices in the winter months. The mountains also offer an endless variety of walks and hikes with scenery that will urge you to go exploring at every opportunity.
Expats who wish to explore the uniquely rich history of Lucerne and the surrounding areas do not need to travel far to find Medieval bridges or Gothic churches. Monasteries, chapels, cathedrals and castles set the scene and the numerous museums tell the story of this wonderous city.
Those with a love of music, particularly classical, will also be spoilt by the music festivals and the regular performances at the acoustically magnificent Lucerne Concert Hall, as well as countless bars and fine-dining restaurants across the city that provide live music while you relax with friends.
Alternatively, you may prefer to spend your day wandering through the shops and markets, perusing the art galleries that include works from Picasso and Klee or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the beautiful lakeside promenade that leads up to the Grand Casino Lucerne. Additional highlights of the Lucerne calendar include the Lucerne Carnival, famous for the bizarre and imaginative masks worn by participants, and the Lucerne Regatta which draws a distinguished audience from all over Europe.
With so much to offer, the city of Lucerne attracts residents from all over the world who have strived to build homes that complement the incredible natural scenery and respect the heritage of generations.
If you’re planning a move to or from Switzerland, Cadogan Tate will assist you every step of the way – from your first enquiry to unpacking at your new home, we are here to help and advise you. For more details about Cadogan Tate’s specialist international removals services from London, click here.