Things To Do
in Lachen

Lachen is a picturesque town situated on the shores of Lake Zurich in Switzerland, known for its charming waterfront and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. With its rich history, quaint streets, and friendly locals, Lachen provides visitors with a unique glimpse into Swiss culture.

Whether you're enjoying a scenic walk along the lake or exploring the nearby mountains, Lachen is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Lachen
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a lakeside café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee while taking in the beautiful views of Lake Zurich.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history of Lachen and explore the charming old town with its traditional Swiss architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, experiencing traditional Swiss cuisine, followed by a stroll along the lake to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby hills, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and fresh mountain air.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting session, sampling some of the region's best wines.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant, followed by a visit to a local bar for a taste of the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$4-$6
🍺Beer$6-$10
🥖Bakery item$2-$5
🏨Hotel room per night$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Wide range of outdoor activities for all seasons.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Higher cost of living and dining.
  • Public transport may be less frequent outside peak hours.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Lachen

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Zurich Promenade

A scenic waterfront path that offers stunning views of the lake and mountains, perfect for capturing beautiful sunset photos.

Old Town Square

A quaint square surrounded by historic buildings, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Viewpoint on the Hiking Trails

Various viewpoints along hiking trails offer panoramic views of Lake Zurich and the Alps, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lachen

Lachen offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases traditional Swiss flavors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Lachen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served as a side or breakfast item.

Must-Try!

Fondue

Melted cheese served with bread for dipping, a classic Swiss dish perfect for sharing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lachen Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh local produce, cheeses, and artisanal products, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lachen experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F). Spring (March to May) sees gradual warming, with temperatures rising from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F) and blooming flowers. Summers (June to August) are mild to warm, averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, averaging 10°C (50°F) in September and dropping to around 0-5°C (32-41°F) by November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Swiss culture values punctuality, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments and meals.

Greetings

A polite greeting is customary; a handshake and eye contact are common when meeting someone.

Respect for Nature

Switzerland places a high value on environmental preservation, so be sure to follow local guidelines when hiking or exploring nature.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lachen is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, typical precautions should be taken, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings. In the event of an emergency, the local healthcare system is reliable, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Lachen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill in restaurants or leave a tip of around 10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or at local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer brings warm temperatures perfect for swimming in the lake and hiking in the nearby mountains.

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage and crisp air, ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter offers a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes, ideal for skiing and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Lachen at Night

Lachen has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and pubs offering a cozy atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends. While it's not a party destination, locals often gather in small groups to socialize over a glass of Swiss wine or beer. For those looking for more vibrant nightlife, nearby cities like Zurich offer a wider range of clubs and entertainment options.

Hiking in Lachen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pfaffikersee Trail

A scenic trail around Lake Pfaffikon, offering beautiful views and a gentle walking path suitable for all ages.

Rigi Mountain Trail

A popular hiking route leading up to the Rigi Mountain, known as the 'Queen of the Mountains', offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Lachen by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Located approximately 50 km from Lachen, Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland, offering numerous flight connections to destinations around the world.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lachen is a compact town that is highly walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance. The lakefront promenade offers a pleasant walking path, and the town center features pedestrian-friendly streets. For those looking to explore further, hiking trails are easily accessible.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Locals

The local population consists mainly of Swiss residents who take pride in their culture and traditions.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to Lachen to experience its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

In winter, skiing is a popular sport in the nearby mountains, attracting both locals and tourists.

Cycling

During warmer months, cycling along the lake and through the countryside is favored by residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lachen is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is reliable, with train services connecting Lachen to larger cities like Zurich and nearby towns. Biking and walking are also popular modes of transport due to the town's compact size.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lachen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, including salads and cheese dishes.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Lachen is accessible and of high quality. There are local clinics and a hospital that provide comprehensive medical services. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and residents are accustomed to helping tourists in need of assistance.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide