Featuring an endless array of watchmaking’s most fascinating complications, the Villeret bears authentic testimony to the talent of our watchmakers. Essentials imbued with timeless elegance. A Villeret is for eternity.
Dear guests, we are thrilled to present the new Spring/ Summer issue of the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern Magazine!
This year begins with an important celebration: the 120th anniversary of the opening of the original Hotel Palace Luzern in 1906 — a defining moment in the history of tourism in Central Switzerland, which quickly established Lucerne as one of the most sought-after destinations of its time.
Today, Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern stands in the very place where the original Belle Époque building once flourished. We look forward to welcoming you and celebrating this remarkable milestone together, with a curated programme of events in collaboration with some of Lucerne’s leading tourism partners.
The city itself remains the true protagonist, set against the extraordinary backdrop of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps. During the spring and summer months in particular, visitors are invited to experience the beauty of unspoilt nature alongside a wealth of dynamic outdoor activities. From the scenic routes of Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV) to the spectacular Alpine experience on Mount Pilatus, our selection of experiences offers a different way to explore the region — both on land and on water.
We wish you a wonderful stay in our city and invite you to join us in the celebration of our anniversary.
MANDARIN ORIENTAL
HALDENSTRASSE 10 6002 LUCERNE
SWITZERLAND
T. +41 4X1 588 1888
MOLZN-RESERVATIONS@MOHG.COM
MANDARINORIENTAL.COM/LUZERN
PUBLISHED BY
WORLDWIDE EXCELLENCE S.R.L.
VIA DELLA MOSCOVA, 6/8 - 20121 MILANO T. +39 02 29060342
INFO@WORLDWIDEEXCELLENCE.COM WORLDWIDEEXCELLENCE.COM
PUBLISHER ERNESTO ALESSANDRINI
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER FILIPPO ALESSANDRINI
EDITOR IN CHIEF EDOARDO CELA
SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR FEDERICA MASCETTI
ART DIRECTOR MARCO FERRARI
LAYOUT GIULIA IMBURGIA
EDITORIAL MANAGER GIULIA TERRANEO
EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR OLIVIA BELLOLI
CONTRIBUTORS
DIANA DEL MORO, GLENDA DIDIER
An overview of the first 120 years at Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern.
BY OLIVIA BELLOLI
This year marks a very special moment for Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, as it celebrates the 120 th anniversary of the Hotel Palace Luzern opening, an important milestone in the history of this remarkable lakeside landmark. The story of the hotel begins at a time when travel itself was being redefined. In the early 19th century, Lucerne was not yet considered a destination in its own right, but rather a gateway to the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors were drawn by the lake and the Alps, whose image was gradually shifting from something remote and forbidding into a symbol of beauty and escape. This change in perception marked the beginning of a new form of travel, one centred on experience and leisure.
As the century progressed, Central Switzerland became one of Europe’s pioneering tourism regions. A growing network of transport and infrastructure made travel easier and more attractive. Steamships began to connect the different shores of Lake Lucerne, while mountain railways opened access to peaks such as Rigi, Pilatus, and Stanserhorn. These developments transformed the region into a cohesive destination, where nature and hospitality worked together to create a new kind of journey.
By the time the Belle Époque arrived, tourism had evolved into a refined and highly organised industry. Lucerne, with its unique setting between lake and mountains, became a preferred destination for an international clientele. It was within this context of growth and ambition that Hotel Palace Luzern was conceived.
When the hotel opened on 7 May 1906, it embodied the spirit of its time. Built directly on the lakefront, it quickly became a defining feature of the city’s skyline. Its grand façade, domes, and distinctive corner tower gave it a strong architectural presence, while its privileged position offered uninterrupted views across the water and towards the Alps. From the outset, it was designed not simply as accommodation, but as a place where guests could fully experience the elegance and atmosphere of the destination.
The driving force behind the project was Franz Josef Bucher, one of the most influential figures in the development of Swiss tourism. Coming from a modest background, he built his success through vision and determination. Over the years, he created a network of hotels, transport systems, and engineering projects, shaping a model of tourism that connected destinations rather than isolating them. His work made it possible for travellers to move seamlessly from lake to mountain, and from journey to stay. Hotel Palace Luzern represented one of the most complete expressions of this integrated approach.
The building itself reflected the highest standards of early 20th-century luxury. It introduced innovations that were still considered exceptional at the time, including private bathrooms and flexible apartment-style layouts designed for extended stays. The organisation of space allowed for both privacy and social interaction, with elegant public rooms overlooking the lake serving as gathering places for guests.
Over the course of the century, the hotel continued to evolve while navigating periods of change and uncertainty. Like many grand hotels across Europe, it was affected by the world wars, experiencing closures and temporary alternative uses. Yet it remained an enduring presence in the city, adapting to new expectations while preserving its identity and character.
In recent years, a careful restoration has reconnected the hotel with its Belle Époque origins, bringing back elements of its historic design while introducing a contemporary level of comfort and refinement. Today, Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern stands as a balance between heritage and modernity, offering a sense of continuity that is both rare and meaningful. More than a hotel, it remains part of a broader narrative. It reflects the origins of tourism in Central Switzerland and the vision of those who helped shape it into one of Europe’s most iconic destinations.
To celebrate this important anniversary, the property is holding a series of in-house events and collaborations with Lucerne’s leading tourism partners. As part of this historical legacy, the hotel aims to pay homage to the city and its community. This involves opening its doors to reveal the historic building’s transformation following the 2022 restoration and renovation, while introducing not only the hotel itself, but also the
"Today, as Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, we’re simply continuing the story. We live in a world that changes every day, and we want to be part of that change..."
Palace’s unique spaces and intriguing stories through the new Guided Palace Tours. Another beautiful tribute is the new Anniversary Menu, served at MOzern starting in May. Created by two-Michelin-star Chef Gilad Peled, the menu is based on the original inauguration menu served on 7 May 1906, when Hotel Palace Luzern first opened. For this special occasion, Chef Peled has recreated some of the dishes, giving his personal interpretation of these classics while still incorporating some of the more unusual and historic ingredients.
The hotel’s philosophy is rooted in providing highquality service and consistently excellent experiences for guests. The vision for the Palace is one that pays tribute to its 120-year history, while also looking to the future. In General Manager Matthias Kindl’s own words: “Today, as Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, we’re simply continuing the story. We live in a world that changes every day, and we want to be part of that change. We embrace it and drive it forward. The Palace will change, it has changed over the years, and it will continue to change. It is crucial that we always discuss, adapt, and try to improve, while listening to others as well. Almost every week I receive letters from the community. They share their stories with us — when they were at the Palace, where their friends had birthday parties, or where their parents got married. I had a guest who spontaneously sent me a letter with many classic postcards of the Palace interiors.
It shows that there is real interest out there. Our goal is to remain relevant while preserving the hotel’s rich history by continually adapting to our guests’ needs and offering new and improved services every day.”
In this sense, the Palace is not only a place to stay, but a point of connection between past and present, where new journeys begin and past adventures are remembered.
To mark the 120th anniversary of the opening of Hotel Palace Luzern, Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern unveils its new Merchandise Collection. Conceived and created especially for this milestone, the official collection features a curated selection of items bearing the anniversary logo — from white and black polo shirts to T-shirts in green, red, light blue, and white, as well as hooded sweatshirts in navy, grey, and beige. It is complemented by an exclusive selection of accessories, including new glasses cases in Celadon Green, elegant mugs, and soft sunglass cloths and pocket squares adorned with illustrations of the Palace’s façade and architectural plans. A heartfelt tribute to this remarkable achievement, the collection is available in the retail shop within the hotel lobby.
Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern celebrates its 120th anniversary the same year historic MS Meggenhorn marks its centennial. This moment introduces an exceptional new guest experience: a journey aboard the historic ship on Lake Lucerne. A singular offering unites two iconic legacies — one established in 1906, heralding a new era of European luxury, and the other built in 1926 for textile industrialist Jakob Heinrich Frey-Baumann, soon recognised as a masterpiece of early 20th-century Swiss boatbuilding. Originally designed as a private vessel for the Meggenhorn estate, the elegant motor yacht MS Meggenhorn was constructed by the Faul shipyard on Lake Zurich. Following a meticulous restoration in recent years, the yacht now stands as a shining example of nautical heritage and craftsmanship, seamlessly bridging past and present. Both the hotel and the MS Meggenhorn embody a sense of continuity that evokes a refined way of life, defined by indulgent leisure and timeless beauty. Guests are invited to embark on a curated voyage across Lake Lucerne with Captain Roger Schilter. As the yacht glides gracefully over the water, the experience celebrates not only two anniversaries but also revives the enduring allure of classic travel.
BY GIULIA TERRANEO
The Colonnade restaurant, a temple of modern French haute cuisine, stands as one of the leading references within Switzerland’s gastronomic landscape. With two Michelin stars, a score of 17/20 from Gault & Millau, and 95/100 — four forks from Falstaff, the restaurant is led by the award-winning Israeli Executive Chef, Gilad Peled. After completing his professional training at the renowned Le Cordon Bleu in London, Chef Peled continued to refine his craft in some of Europe’s most acclaimed kitchens, from the United Kingdom to the Czech Republic, and on to France, where he worked alongside Michelin-starred chefs including Clare Smyth and Gordon Ramsay.
In 2023, he took the helm of Colonnade, where he offers guests a refined and memorable culinary experience:
As the Executive Chef of Colonnade, how do you think Lucerne's gastronomic landscape has evolved in recent years?
When I first saw the property in 2018, I agreed to join right away as I felt that this would be the right place for me. I could say that since we opened, Lucerne has become quite a lot more visible on the culinary map of the region. There are other Michelin-starred restaurants, but our goal has always been to establish Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern as a culinary destination. Our restaurants are now considered to be a Culinary Mecca in Switzerland. The mission has always been to create a place where people would want to go to experience the cuisine.
How has your cross-European experience and modern French cuisine been a defining element of you arriving at Colonnade?
Well, I specialise in French cuisine and I think it's important to me to always feel a sense of belonging and to feel at one with my surroundings. Whenever I was in any European city, never served items from the other side of the world. Nowadays, many of our diners are very experienced and have high expectations of high-quality products. Therefore, it is essential to me that we source our ingredients locally and seasonally. This is why we serve chocolate desserts at Colonnade — they're an integral part of the Swiss culinary tradition! We always use local ingredients, working closely with farmers, local lake fishermen, and Swiss master cheesemakers. These elements form part of the overall experience, offering you a taste of Lucerne that cannot be found anywhere else.
What does it mean to you to once again work alongside Chef Clare Smyth on your Four-Hands dinner this June?
Clare is my mentor and my friend. The day I arrived at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in London; she was in charge. Maybe it was the smell, the flavours, the energy, the commitment, but I immediately felt like I belonged. I was very lucky to work with her; she taught me a lot and still to this day I look at her as a role model. Over the years, we stayed very close so, naturally, I invited her to make this dinner together. There’s just something nice about friends cooking together, don’t you think? I really look forward to it! We will also be holding another Four-Hands dinner with Chef Yannick Alléno in October. I am happy to organise these kinds of events. It's all about sharing the same passion and creating a great experience for the guests.
How do you want the guests to be feeling when they are enjoying your dishes?
At Colonnade it's all about taking care of our guests with an open heart. I always say to the team in the kitchen that we are welcoming someone to our home and that how we treat our guests is the most crucial part of the job. This is why I can only work with passionate people because they always care and never compromise, they give it their 100%. Our only goal is to make our guests happy and put a smile on their faces. We want them to feel taken care of, and we try our best to make every meal a memorable experience.
What is your future vision for Colonnade and for the other restaurants at Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern?
As I mentioned at the beginning, our vision and mission were to establish the hotel as a culinary destination in Switzerland and increase its local visibility. A place where guests could enjoy lunch on the beautiful lakeside terrace or experience one of the fine dining restaurants in the evening. Now that we have accomplished that, it is time to increase our presence in the international market. This is why we are holding dinners with Smyth and Alléno, and we're also working on a Colonnade cookbook. We want to take the next step forward and create more awareness among travelling food lovers, so they can come and try our cuisine. They wouldn’t want to miss this special place.
evening of
“My team and are incredibly excited. We will be presenting an eight-course menu, with some dishes by Clare and others from Colonnade. Our styles of cooking are already very similar — some even describe my cuisine as having a feminine touch. My culinary DNA is undoubtedly shaped by her influence; she has been the most important figure in my career. believe there will be a real sense of harmony between the dishes, with everything coming together quite naturally. It should also be enjoyable for guests to try and guess who created what.”
BY GLENDA DIDIER
Lucerne is the ideal setting to slow down and enjoy the greenery and the quiet rhythm of the lake or simply make the most of time through a variety of outdoor experiences. During spring and summer, the city reveals a lighter character, where daily life naturally shifts outdoors. The combination of water, mountains, and green spaces creates a setting that feels both relaxed and full of possibility.
One of the most loved places to experience this balance is Ufschötti Park, located just a few minutes from the city centre. Set directly along the shores of Lake Lucerne, it offers a sense of openness that is rare so close to an urban environment. The wide lawns provide space to unwind, read, or spend time outdoors, while the informal atmosphere encourages simple activities such as frisbee or badminton. Along the water’s edge, a sandy stretch of beach adds a softer contrast to the landscape, making it one of the most inviting spots for a swim on warmer days. With uninterrupted views across the lake and towards the mountains, the setting remains both calm and visually striking.
For a more social and animated atmosphere, lakeside venues such as Badi-Bars introduce a different rhythm to the waterfront. Here, the experience becomes more vibrant, with music, drinks, and a steady flow of people creating a relaxed but lively environment. The transition from afternoon to evening happens almost seamlessly, as light softens over the water and the energy of the space gradually shifts. The lake itself remains at the centre of many seasonal experiences. Exploring it directly allows for a deeper connection with the landscape. In the area of Tribschen, kayak and stand-up paddle rentals offer a more independent and immersive way to move across the water. The slower pace makes it possible to observe the surroundings from a different perspective, with the city disappearing into the background and the natural scenery becoming more prominent.
"The combination of water, mountains, and green spaces creates a setting that feels both relaxed and full of possibility."
Beyond the shoreline, the surrounding landscape invites further exploration. The Felsenweg on the Bürgenstock is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region from above. This panoramic path follows the natural contours of the mountain, opening onto wide views over Lake Lucerne that shift gradually along the route. For a more elevated experience, a trip to Mount Pilatus remains one of the most iconic excursions. Rising prominently above the lake, it provides a panoramic view that extends across Central Switzerland. The journey itself, whether by cable car or as part of a combination of boat and mountain transport, is as significant as the destination. It brings together the defining elements of the region, water, altitude, and landscape, in a way that feels both cohesive and memorable.
Lucerne also offers opportunities to connect with the deeper history of its landscape. The Gletschergarten presents a different dimension of the region, revealing traces of its geological past through preserved glacial formations and carefully designed exhibitions.
It offers a quieter, more reflective experience, where the origins of the surrounding scenery become more tangible and easier to understand.
What defines Lucerne in spring and summer is not a single activity, but the ease with which different experiences can be combined. The proximity of lake, city, and mountains allows for a natural flow between moments of stillness and movement, between quieter settings and more social environments.
Queen Victoria’s creative time in Lucerne.
BY FEDERICA MASCETTI
Few may realise that in 1868, precisely from 7 August to 9 September, Queen Victoria spent her summer in this serene corner of Switzerland. Her physician had recommended the trip as a means of easing the profound grief that followed the death of her husband, Prince Albert.
Accompanied by her three daughters, the Queen stayed at the newly opened Pension Wallis, an elegant residence set amidst nature, overlooking Lucerne. It belonged to the English painter and hotelier Robert Wallis, whose property offered both discretion and a sense of peace. Among Victoria’s requests was that her arrival and stay remain as inconspicuous as possible. She wished to experience the journey as any ordinary traveller — also thanks to her fluency in German, which allowed her to anonymously enjoy customs, traditions, and daily life.
Inevitably, word of her presence spread fast in the region, and her influence was soon felt as hotels and buildings began to adopt the name “Victoria”, while British interest in the Swiss Alps grew steadily in the years that followed.
“Using watercolours, the Queen captured landscapes, faces, and fleeting moments with a sensitivity that feels both intimate and immediate.”
There are no photographic records of her time in Lucerne. However, what is known is that Victoria spent her days exploring the city and its surroundings — drawn to its unspoilt landscapes and the vivid colours of summer. Whenever possible, she would preserve these impressions in a more personal way, creating small visual memories she could carry back to England. Using watercolours, the Queen captured landscapes, faces, and fleeting moments with a sensitivity that feels both intimate and immediate. These works offer a rare glimpse into her experience — not as a monarch, but as a traveller, moving through an unfamiliar place while remaining entirely herself.
Her watercolour depictions of Lucerne remained with her long after her stay in Switzerland, leaving behind an unexpected record of a period of her life far from her life at court. In the reflections of Lake Lucerne, she found not only beauty, but a quiet sense of peace.
From early steam navigation to a new era of refined experiences on Lake Lucerne.
BY OLIVIA BELLOLI
The history of the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV) begins long before tourism became what it is today. In the early 19th century, the lake served primarily as a route for trade and connection between communities. This changed with the arrival of steam navigation, introduced by pioneer Casimir Friedrich Knörr, whose vision transformed the lake into a space not only for transport, but also for experience.
The first steamboats marked a decisive turning point. They connected the different shores of the lake with a new sense of rhythm and reliability, making travel easier and more accessible. What had once been a purely practical journey gradually became something more considered and enjoyable. As tourism in Central Switzerland began to grow, the lake itself became part of the attraction, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.
Over time, the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company evolved alongside this transformation. From its origins in 1836, it developed into a central part of the region’s tourism landscape, linking lake travel with mountain excursions and helping to shape the idea of a seamless journey between water and alpine destinations. Today, the fleet continues to reflect this heritage, combining historic paddle steamers with modern vessels that carry millions of passengers each year.
At the same time, the company looks firmly to the future. In recent years, it has taken a pioneering role in sustainable navigation, exploring new technologies such as hydrogen propulsion and renewable fuels. Projects including the conversion of vessels to hydrogen systems and the use of solar fuel mark a new chapter, where innovation once again reshapes the experience of travel on the lake.
This balance between heritage and progress is reflected in the introduction of “Legends of Lake Lucerne”, launched in 2025 on the boat Gallia. Conceived as a premium experience, it invites a maximum of 65 guests to rediscover the origins of navigation on the lake through a more immersive and refined 5-hour journey. Rather than simply crossing the water, passengers are guided through a narrative that connects past and present, echoing the early days when travel itself was part of the experience. A refined 5-course menu featuring regional ingredients and creative Swiss cuisine accompanies the journey.
In this way, the lake remains what it has always been, not just a route, but a setting. A place where movement and landscape come together, and where each journey continues to unfold with a quiet sense of continuity. To book your trip, please contact the Concierge.
“As tourism in Central Switzerland began to grow, the lake itself became part of the attraction, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.”
BY GLENDA DIDIER
Lucerne is the kind of destination where every occasion feels a little more meaningful. The stillness of the lake, the gentle rhythm of the surrounding mountains, and the clarity of the alpine air come together to create a setting that invites celebration.
Whether for a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or a private gathering, Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern is a Belle Époque landmark that offers an elegant and romantic backdrop for any occasion, with a particular sense of magic when it comes to weddings. Set on the shores of Lake Lucerne, here, every detail comes together effortlessly, allowing each moment to unfold with ease and authenticity.
Your special day begins at the Edelweiss Ballroom, an elegant room that welcomes larger celebrations in a light-filled, contemporary space, opening onto a terrace with sweeping views of the lake and mountains; an ideal setting for ceremonies, receptions, and unforgettable moments shared with family and friends. The Salon Alpine also offers a refined and
characterful atmosphere, enriched by original Belle Époque details, chandeliers, and warm tones, perfect for smaller ceremonies, elegant dinners, or private celebrations. Lastly, during the warmer months, the Lake Terrace provides a beautiful outdoor setting, where celebrations can unfold against the natural backdrop of the lake, from relaxed cocktail receptions to al fresco dining.
Smaller spaces such as the Grand Salon guarantee additional flexibility for more intimate and quiet moments.
A dedicated events team accompanies every stage of the planning process, offering a thoughtful and personalised approach, from floral arrangements and décor to menus and the finer details that make each event truly unique.
The experience is completed by bespoke culinary creations and elegant accommodation, ensuring both you and your guests enjoy a sense of comfort, beauty, and understated luxury throughout.
Whether celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime wedding or any of life’s meaningful occasions, each moment is shaped with care, so that what remains is not just the event, but the unforgettable memory of it.
Accompanying the iconic bracelet from the Sparks Heart x Nadine Ghosn collection, Gübelin introduces a new 18-carat rose gold necklace adorned with heart-shaped coloured gemstones. Tanzanite, aquamarine, morganite, pink and green tourmaline. The new piece comes together with the maison’s signature ruby in a playful yet refined composition and is equally suited to everyday wear and more formal occasions. A versatile and elegant piece, it embodies joy, love, and confidence, and reflects the close creative bond between Raphael Gübelin and the celebrated jewellery designer. Discover it at the Gübelin boutique in Lucerne, located at Schwanenplatz 7.
Fedeli presents its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection as an immersive journey defined by elegance and comfort, where natural soft tones take centre stage. A refined balance of classic silhouettes and a contemporary mood, the collection places particular emphasis on the quality of fabrics and the nuance of its colour palette. From pale sand, white, and deep blue, to shades of green and brighter notes of pink and coral, each piece is designed to move effortlessly across occasions. Alongside linen, Giza cotton, jersey, and silk-cashmere blends, the collection introduces two seasonal innovations: knitwear crafted from the new Fedeli Helium yarn — an ultra-fine (13-micron) Farm Congi wool sourced from New South Wales, Australia — and Jersey Flex a new fabric for polos and T-shirts, available in over 40 shades, defined by its soft, compact texture and long-lasting comfort.
Bvlgari unveils Eclettica its latest High Jewellery and Haute Horlogerie collection — a celebration of imagination and artisanal mastery. Comprising over 50 creations, including 14 transformable pieces, the collection is crowned by nine exceptional Capolavori (Italian for masterpieces), each crafted with rare gemstones and extraordinary precision.
Among the highlights is the Serpenti Dea Secret High-End Watch in white gold, inspired by the collection’s signature hexagonal motif. Its fluid bracelet coils elegantly around the wrist, culminating in a snake’s head set with marquise-cut emeralds, concealing a diamond pavé dial with emeraldgreen hands. At its heart lies the Piccolissimo BVP 100 manufactured micro-movement, manually wound via a diamond and emerald-set crown. Subject to availability at the Bvlgari boutique on Grendelstrasse 21 in Lucerne.
Gellner & Friends has spent the last ten years in Zurich establishing a sanctuary of permanence. A new chapter begins this June with the opening of a second boutique in the heart of Lucerne at Hertensteinstrasse 28, with a curated selection of extraordinary jewellery manufacturers united by the highest standards of craftsmanship, aesthetics, and ethics. At the centre stands the Gellner pearl manufacturer, but the "Friends" — a hand-picked community of partner brands that share the same DNA — are just as vital. The opening in Lucerne is more than just an expansion; it is a celebration of the sensory experience. This commitment to quality is further underscored by a very special and exclusive partnership with Ole Lynggaard Copenhagen: their Shooting Stars Collection, inspired by the magic of a starlit night, is the epitome of artisanal elegance and high-quality jewellery. Each diamond star is a tribute to fine Danish craftsmanship, transforming 18k gold and brilliant-cut diamonds into a wonderful celestial journey.
MARIA PINIŃSKA-BEREŚ. UNDER THE PINK FLAG
UNTIL 14 JUNE
@KUNSTMUSEUM LUZERN
‘Under the Pink Flag’ presents a retrospective of Maria PinińskaBereś, showcasing sculptures and installations that challenge traditional gender roles and social norms. Through soft materials and a poetic yet critical approach, her work explores themes of femininity, identity, and marginalisation, highlighting her radical contribution to contemporary feminist art.
BRIAN DAWN CHALKLEY. ANGELS SUFFER TOO
UNTIL 21 JUNE
@KUNSTMUSEUM LUZERN
This exhibition explores Brian Dawn Chalkley’s long-standing investigation of gender and alter ego through expressive portraits and narrative textile works. Blending melancholy with black humour, his pieces depict isolated figures and dreamlike landscapes, where a seemingly naïve, folk-inspired style contrasts with the emotional complexity and ambiguity of the scenes.
COMIC FESTIVAL
KUNSTMUSEUM LUCERNE, 2026.
MARC LATZEL
'1 RAUM, 1 WERK.' INSTALLATIONEN AUS DER SAMMLUNG', 2026, ANDREAS GEHR, LEITSTERN, 1979. STAR: METAL, POLYESTER PAINT; CLAY ELEMENTS, VARIABLE DIMENSIONS, KUNSTMUSEUM LUZERN, ON LOAN FROM THE CITY OF LUCERNE. PHOTO: MARC LATZEL
1 RAUM, 1 WERK. INSTALLATIONEN AUS DER SAMMLUNG
UNTIL 15 NOVEMBER
@KUNSTMUSEUM LUZERN
Rather than presenting multiple works together, this exhibition adopts a strikingly focused format in which each installation occupies an entire room, allowing visitors to step fully into a single artistic environment. Centred on contemporary practices, the display highlights large-scale, immersive works that extend beyond traditional sculpture or painting, inviting active engagement and sensory experience.
SPOT ON ANDREAS BRUNNER
FROM 4 JULY TO 11 OCTOBER
@KUNSTMUSEUM LUZERN
This focused presentation highlights Andreas Brunner’s multidisciplinary practice, where videos, installations, and objects emerge from an associative process combining observation and research. Drawing on references from pop culture, architecture, and art history, his work blurs the boundaries between reality and fiction, unfolding as a series of visual investigations that are both playful and conceptually layered.
SHIRANA SHAHBAZI - ALL AT ONCE. AN INTERPLAY WITH LI TAVOR
FROM 4 JULY TO 18 OCTOBER
@KUNSTMUSEUM LUZERN
‘All at Once’ brings together Shirana Shahbazi’s multifaceted practice in a visually layered dialogue that moves between abstraction and figuration. Combining photography with other media, the works explore how images are constructed, fragmented, and perceived, creating compositions that feel at once precise and enigmatic.
DOMINIK ZIETLOW. NUR DIE BERGE BEGEGNEN
SICH NIE
FROM 24 OCTOBER TO 31 JANUARY 2027
@KUNSTMUSEUM LUZERN
Developed in the context of the Manor Art Prize, this exhibition centres on Dominik Zietlow’s film-based practice, exploring the act of listening as both a sensory and social experience. Through performative and documentary approaches, his works investigate the relationship between sound and image, blurring the boundaries between reality and fiction.
LA TRAGÉDIE DE CARMEN
UNTIL 2 JUNE
@LUCERNE THEATRE
A distilled and intense reworking of Bizet’s opera, ‘La Tragédie de Carmen’ focuses on the destructive force of desire and obsession. Stripping the story back to its emotional core, the production follows Don José’s consuming fixation on Carmen, whose fierce independence resists all attempts at control.
UNTIL 16 JUNE
@LUCERNE THEATRE
‘Hemmige’ creates a vivid and rhythmic performance that explores themes of identity and belonging. At its centre lies the tension between two contrasting worlds, as one figure attempts to navigate and overcome the invisible barriers that separate them.
ON ALL FOURS
UNTIL 18 JUNE
@LUCERNE THEATRE
In ‘On All Fours’, personal upheaval becomes the starting point for a sharp and often darkly humorous exploration of desire and selfreinvention. As the protagonist confronts shifting relationships and a changing sense of identity, the narrative unfolds in fragments, capturing the uncertainty and intensity of a life in transition.
THE LOVES OF BERENICE
UNTIL 19 JUNE
@LUCERNE THEATRE
‘The Loves of Berenice’ combines opera and dance to explore a story shaped by love, power, and inner conflict. At its centre is Berenice, caught between personal desire and external expectations, as her relationships become increasingly strained. Through the interplay of music and movement, the piece offers an expressive and emotionally driven portrayal of difficult choices and their consequences.
L’ELISIR D’AMORE [DER LIEBESTRANK]
UNTIL 21 JUNE
@LUCERNE THEATRE
A playful mix of humour and romance defines ‘L’elisir d’amore’, where a naive young man turns to a supposed love potion in hopes of winning over the woman he loves. As misunderstandings unfold, it becomes clear that genuine feeling matters more than illusion, with the story balancing comic moments and heartfelt emotion.
GO SWIMMING 2 - NOW IT’S DRYING
FROM 13 MAY TO 21 JUNE
@LUCERNE THEATRE
‘go swimming 2 - now it’s drying’ brings together music and spoken word in an informal, easy-going performance. Moving between songs and personal reflections, the piece captures everyday moments and shared experiences, creating a light and intimate atmosphere.
NEXT MATTERS
FROM 9 JUNE TO 20 JUNE
@LUCERNE THEATRE
'Next Matters' takes shape as a collective creation, bringing together a series of short works developed by the dancers themselves. Each piece reflects a different style and perspective, resulting in a varied and dynamic programme that highlights creativity, collaboration, and the individuality of the performers.
46TH CENTRAL SWITZERLAND SPRING FAIR - LUGA
UNTIL 3 MAY
@ALLMEND STADIUM
With over 450 regional and national exhibitors, it offers an aweinspiring array of themes, from lifestyle and gastronomy to health, leisure, education, and home innovation. The fair transforms the exhibition grounds into a dynamic marketplace and cultural meeting point, blending inspiring displays, interactive showcases, and community spirit into one lively event.
LUCERNE FESTIVAL PULSE
FROM 15 TO 17 MAY
@LUCERNE
Conceived as a new addition to the Lucerne Festival programme, Pulse brings together a wide-ranging musical journey shaped by pianist Víkingur Ólafsson. Moving from Bach to contemporary works, the programme explores the theme of “Time and Space”, linking different eras and artistic perspectives.
ART BASEL
FROM 18 TO 21 JUNE
@VARIOUS LOCATIONS
Rather than a traditional exhibition, Art Basel unfolds as a vast international art fair where leading galleries present modern and contemporary works by both established and emerging artists. Bringing together collectors, curators, and creatives, it functions as both a marketplace and a cultural platform, offering a wideranging overview of current artistic trends through paintings, installations, performances, and large-scale projects.
LUCERNE CITY FESTIVAL
26-27 JUNE
@KKL LUZERN, LUZERNER SAAL
An elegant and charitable highlight in Lucerne’s cultural calendar, this ball offers a glittering evening of music and celebration with the Luzerner Sinfonieorchester. Held at the KKL, it brings together symphonic performance and high society in support of a cause close to the orchestra’s heart.
LUCERNE REGATTA
FROM 26 TO 28 JUNE
@LAKE ROTSEE
One of the world’s most prestigious rowing events, bringing together the international elite of the sport on the Rotsee, a lake often considered one of the best rowing venues worldwide. With a history spanning over a century, it has become a key fixture in the global rowing calendar and regularly hosts major competitions, including stages of the World Rowing Cup.
SWISS NATIONAL DAY
1 AUGUST
@CITY OF LUCERNE
Swiss National Day, celebrated annually on 1 August, marks the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. The day commemorates the signing of the Federal Charter, a historic alliance between the three founding cantons, Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden, laying the foundation for modern Switzerland.
LUCERNE SUMMER FESTIVAL
FROM 13 AUGUST TO 13 SEPTEMBER
@KKL LUZERN
The Summer Festival brings together leading orchestras, conductors, and soloists in a broad programme of classical music. Spanning different styles and periods, it offers a varied series of concerts often connected by a common theme, creating a clear and engaging musical journey.
WORLD BAND FESTIVAL LUCERNE
FROM 19 TO 27 SEPTEMBER
@KKL LUZERN
Centred on wind music in all its forms, the World Band Festival brings together leading orchestras, ensembles, and soloists for a dynamic programme of concerts and performances. Moving across genres, the festival creates a lively exchange between styles, combining musical precision with a broad, accessible appeal.
FORWARD FESTIVAL 2026
FROM 20 TO 22 NOVEMBER
@KKL LUZERN
The Lucerne City Festival unfolds as a lively, openair celebration that brings together a wide range of performances and activities across the city centre. Spread across different squares, the programme offers a mix of music, entertainment, and cultural events, creating a vibrant and communal atmosphere where visitors can move freely between stages and experiences.
A selection of the “Concierge Hot Picks” for the spring/ summer season in and around Lucerne.
"One of my favourite summer escapes is the Neustadt district of Lucerne, where you’ll find a vibrant yet local atmosphere with charming cafés and small boutiques. For a unique experience, I enjoy renting a stand-up paddle on the lake early in the morning — seeing Lucerne from the water is truly special."
"I highly recommend a visit to the Rotsee, just outside Lucerne. Known as the “Lake of the Gods” for rowing, it is a peaceful spot, ideal for a scenic walk or a quiet moment by the water. For a special evening, I enjoy dining at a lakeside restaurant in Kastanienbaum, where you can watch the sunset over the lake in a very tranquil setting. "
UROS
"One of my favourite summer activities is taking the cable car up to Mount Pilatus and hiking down via the Fräkmüntegg area — perfect for combining adventure with breathtaking views. For something more relaxed, I recommend an evening swim in the lake followed, by a casual lakeside aperitif — one of the best ways to experience Lucerne like a local."
"During the warmer months, I enjoy heading to the Bürgenstock Resort area, where the Hammetschwand Lift offers spectacular panoramic views over Lake Lucerne — the perfect combination of nature and a touch of adventure. For a relaxed afternoon, recommend a boat ride on Lake Lucerne followed by a stop in Vitznau for a lakeside drink."
Zip Antique
Necklace transformable into a bracelet