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Visit the Octagonal Water Tower to learn about its role in Lucerne's historical water supply system. Take in the views of the surrounding Old Town and lake. It’s also a great spot for photography and understanding the city’s medieval infrastructure.
The Octagonal Water Tower is located in Lucerne, Switzerland, and is part of the Chapel Bridge. The Chapel Bridge spans the Reuss River, and features a 34-meter-tall octagonal water tower in the middle of the bridge. In 1993, the Chapel Bridge was destroyed by fire, leaving only the water tower intact. The current Chapel Bridge has been repaired and rebuilt. The octagonal water tower beside the Chapel Bridge was originally part of the city's water defenses. It was once used to store trophies and jewels during battles and, for a time, served as a prison and execution chamber.
Temperate maritime climate, summer
Chapel Bridge, Reuss River, 1-3 hours
free
All day
The Octagonal Water Tower, part of Lucerne's original city fortifications, was built in the 13th century. It served both as a water tower and a prison. It is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, showcasing the medieval architecture and urban planning of Lucerne.
The Octagonal Water Tower is located in Lucerne's Old Town, near the Chapel Bridge. It is easily accessible on foot from the central train station, about a 10-minute walk. You can also take a bus to the nearby stop and walk from there.
The tower is open year-round, with no specific opening hours for the public, as it is part of the city's open air museum. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are lighter.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Octagonal Water Tower. It can be freely explored from the outside. For inside access or specialized tours, tickets may be available through local guides or tours of Lucerne’s historical landmarks.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are booking a guided tour or special events. For guided tours, it’s recommended to book a few days in advance during the peak tourist season.
You can explore the Octagonal Water Tower in about 30 minutes, especially if you’re just admiring the exterior and taking in the surrounding views. If you take a guided tour, allocate an hour or more for a more detailed experience.
The main highlight is the tower itself and its connection to the old city defenses. The panoramic view from the tower, although limited, offers a unique perspective of Lucerne and its historic center.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, German, and French. Audio guides may be available for a self-guided tour, providing historical context about the tower and the city’s medieval past.
The best photography spots are from the top of the tower, where you can capture views of Lucerne's Old Town, Chapel Bridge, and Lake Lucerne. The area surrounding the tower also offers great photo opportunities with its quaint medieval architecture.
Start by exploring the tower from the outside, then head to the Chapel Bridge nearby for more views of the lake and city. If you’re interested in a deeper historical experience, consider joining a guided tour of the Old Town.
The Octagonal Water Tower is not typically open for night visits, but it looks beautiful when lit up in the evening. Check for any special historical tours or evening events that may include the tower.
The tower can be busy during peak tourist season in summer. The least crowded times are early mornings and weekdays, especially in the off-season months of autumn and winter.
There are no facilities inside the Octagonal Water Tower, but public toilets, cafes, and shops are located nearby in the Old Town of Lucerne.
The exterior of the tower is accessible to all, but there are stairs to the top, which may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. The surrounding area is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Cash is not needed to visit the Octagonal Water Tower as it is free to enter. However, for any purchases in nearby shops or cafes, cards and mobile payments are widely accepted.
Nearby restaurants include Restaurant Balances, which offers Swiss and international dishes, and Café des Artistes, a popular spot for coffee and pastries. Both are a short walk from the tower.
Yes, many restaurants near the Octagonal Water Tower offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. These options are typically available at restaurants like Restaurant Balances and Café des Artistes.
Hotels such as Hotel des Balances and Hotel Rebstock are within walking distance of the Octagonal Water Tower. Both offer comfortable accommodations with easy access to the city’s attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Museum of Transport. A boat ride on Lake Lucerne is also a great way to explore the surrounding area.
There are souvenir shops in the Old Town near the tower, where you can find Swiss watches, chocolates, and traditional crafts, as well as miniature models of the Octagonal Water Tower and other city landmarks.
The best transportation options from the Octagonal Water Tower are walking or public transport. The central train station is only a short walk away, and buses and boats are available for further exploration of Lucerne and surrounding areas.
