Lucerne, nestled amidst the stunning Swiss Alps and sitting by the serene Lake Lucerne, is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque cities. Renowned for its historic charm, including the iconic Chapel Bridge and the breathtaking views of Mount Pilatus, it serves as an ideal base for exploring central Switzerland. However, finding decent yet affordable accommodation in this scenic country can be challenging. In Switzerland, lodging is likely to be your second biggest expense after flight tickets, making it crucial to choose wisely.
We decided on Hotel Alpina in Lucerne, largely because of its excellent location. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the railway station—a huge advantage if you plan to take day trips, which many visitors to Lucerne do. For instance, we used it as a base for a delightful trip to Colmar, France. Being so close to the station saved us time and effort, making our travel experience smooth and stress-free.
The Stay
The hotel itself is small but neat. Our room was spacious and comfortable (we chose the Standard Double Room), with a cozy balcony that added a romantic touch. Enjoying a cup of coffee there, brewed with the in-room Nespresso machine, was a daily highlight for us. The bathroom, however, was quite tight and could be improved. One thing we appreciated was a Her/His sink, however I’d like to bring to your notice that the washbasins sit in the room right across from the bed.
Breakfast was served in the adjacent Hotel Monopol, and the spread was excellent. We particularly enjoyed the ravioli each morning—a delightful touch that elevated the dining experience.
Noise Factor
Before booking, we read some reviews mentioning noise from nearby bars and eateries. Fortunately, this was not a concern during our stay. Even with the window open at night, the noise was minimal and didn’t bother us. For light sleepers, the hotel thoughtfully provides earplugs, ensuring a good night’s rest.
Service & Check-In
The reception staff were warm, welcoming, and accommodating. While the official check-in time is 4 PM, we opted to pay a little extra for an early check-in at 12 PM, which was worth it after a morning arrival.
Overall Experience
Our stay at Hotel Alpina was great. The location, comfortable rooms, and thoughtful amenities like the Nespresso machine made our visit enjoyable. The only drawback was the cramped bathroom space, but this didn’t overshadow the overall experience. If you’re looking for a well-located, comfortable, and reasonably priced hotel in Lucerne, Hotel Alpina is a solid choice.
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