Things To Do
in Lachen
Lachen is a tranquil Swiss municipality set on the northern shore of Lake Zurich in the canton of Schwyz. It blends lakeside scenery with rolling hills, traditional Swiss architecture, and easy access to nature and nearby towns. Stroll along the promenade, dine in cozy eateries, and use it as a base to explore the Lake Zurich region.
The town’s quiet pace, reliable public transport, and scenic views make it an ideal destination for a relaxed Swiss escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Swiss pastries and coffee. Take a stroll through the quaint streets of Lachen, admiring the charming wooden chalets and vibrant flower boxes. Stop by the Lachen Church, a beautiful example of traditional Swiss architecture, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Visit the Lachen Museum to learn about the local history and cultural heritage of the area. Afterward, enjoy a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Zurich, where you can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Stop for lunch at a lakeside restaurant, indulging in authentic Swiss cuisine while watching boats glide across the water.
As the sun sets, head to a local wine bar to sample some of the region's finest wines. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories of your adventures. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk along the lake, enjoying the twinkling lights reflecting on the water.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast near the lakeside, where the smell of fresh bread fills the air. After your meal, embark on a guided boat tour of Lake Zurich, taking in the stunning alpine vistas that surround you. Keep your camera ready as you pass by charming towns and lush landscapes along the shoreline.
Disembark at one of the picturesque villages such as Rapperswil, known for its beautiful castle and rose garden. Spend the afternoon exploring the cobblestone streets, visiting the castle, and enjoying a picnic in the rose garden. Savor some local delicacies at a nearby café before returning to Lachen by boat.
Upon your return, relax at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a warm drink on the balcony with views of the lake. Later, head to a traditional Swiss restaurant for a hearty fondue dinner, experiencing a culinary delight that brings people together. As the night draws in, take a peaceful walk along the waterfront, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥖Bread or bakery items | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $120-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake views and easy access to nature
- Quiet, safe, and clean with efficient transport
- Good base for exploring both lake towns and nearby Alpines
- Limited nightlife and dining options within Lachen itself
- Prices can be high, typical of many Swiss destinations
- "Grüezi" - Hello (Swiss German)
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Lachen
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning or golden hour light over the lake, with gentle hills in the background and reflections on the water.
Scenic lake panoramas facing toward the Alps, ideal for wide-angle sunset shots.
Ships, boats, and moored vessels provide compelling maritime compositions with soft water textures.
Food in Lachen
Lachen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught trout served with crisp Swiss Rösti and a light herb sauce, widely available at lakeside eateries.
Must-Try!
A classic Swiss pancake-like hash brown dish topped with sizzling bacon and caramelized onions.
Shareable melted cheese dishes best enjoyed with bread, pickles, and boiled potatoes—perfect for cooler evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers’ market offering cheeses, breads, fruit, and regional specialties within a short ride from Lachen.
Seasonal snacks such as pretzels, sausages, and warm beverages available at festival stalls or summer fairs along the lakefront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Switzerland values punctuality in both business and social settings; arrive on time for appointments and meetings.
Offer a firm handshake; use polite forms like Gruezi/Grüezi for German-speaking regions and address people respectfully.
Respect residential quiet periods in the evenings; avoid loud noise late at night in quiet neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Lachen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is customary.
Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted; cash (Swiss francs) is handy for smaller shops or rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with plenty of lake activities; expect outdoor markets, long sunsets, and comfortable hiking in the surrounding hills.
Mild days turn crisper; autumn colors along the hillsides create rich landscape photography and pleasant walks.
Cold with possible snow; cozy cafés, alpine day trips to nearby mountains, and quiet lake views with a hush in the air.
Flowers bloom and trails become more vibrant; a good time for lakeside strolls and shorter hikes.
Lachen at Night
Hiking in Lachen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hillside route with moderate elevation, offering scenic views over the lake and Alps.
Classic city-adjacent hike with panoramic views; accessible via a short train ride from nearby towns.
Iconic mountain hike offering sweeping lake and mountain vistas; a feasible day trip from Lachen with transport connections.
Airports
How to reach Lachen by plane.
Major international gateway about 40-60 minutes by train or car from Lachen; frequent connections to the region.
Smaller regional airport serving limited European routes; a longer drive from Lachen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Quiet, safe environment with gentle activities suitable for children along the lake and nearby parks.
People visiting for relaxation and easy access to Lake Zurich and the surrounding countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
On Lake Zurich and nearby water bodies where boating and paddling are popular in warmer months.
Extensive trails in the surrounding hills and ridges, with viewpoints over the lake and Alps.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lachen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, opt for cheese-focused dishes, seasonal vegetables, salads, and soups; most places can adapt dishes—ask for no meat or fish stock if needed.