Switzerland Cycling Holiday Lucerne
Challenging Mountains. Spectacular Lakes. Pure Alpine Performance.
Discover the ultimate Switzerland cycling holiday in the heart of Lucerne — where dramatic alpine climbs, shimmering lakes, and world-class roads create a rider’s paradise.
This is not just another cycling trip. It’s a centre-based cycling adventure designed for ambitious riders who crave elevation, precision, and breathtaking scenery. From the moment you roll out beside Lake Lucerne, with the iconic Mount Pilatus towering above, you’ll know this is something special.
See what makes our cycling experiences different →
Stay in one exceptional hotel in Lucerne — one of Europe’s most captivating cities — and ride some of the most spectacular routes Switzerland has to offer. Each day delivers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty: pristine tarmac tracing turquoise lakes, panoramic mountain switchbacks, and countryside so scenic it feels surreal.
The Ride: Big Climbs. Legendary Roads
In just six days, this Switzerland cycling holiday achieves more than most cycling holidays do in two weeks. Every route is crafted for performance and impact.
Glide along the contours of Lake Lucerne on immaculate roads that flow like the country’s famed rail system. Then shift gears and test yourself against iconic alpine ascents:
Susten Pass (2,224m) – A true Swiss classic. Long, sweeping gradients and jaw-dropping glacier views.
Glaubenberg Pass (1,543m) – A quieter gem, rewarding riders with raw alpine beauty and challenging terrain.
Whether you’re chasing summit victories or pushing your personal limits, each day’s ride is tailored to your ability. Our expert cycling guides and dedicated support crew ensure the perfect balance of ambition and enjoyment — so you can focus on the road ahead.
Ride Hard. Recover in Style
After conquering the mountains, return to Lucerne to unwind in comfort. Stroll through historic streets, relax by the lake, and indulge in authentic Swiss cuisine — the ideal way to refuel and celebrate each day’s achievement.
With meticulous organisation, seamless support, and signature attention to detail, Practice Bicycle Tours delivers an elevated Switzerland cycling holiday where every climb, descent, and lakeside stretch is unforgettable.
Switzerland awaits. Are you ready to rise to the challenge?
The Practice Bicycle Difference
Every tour we design is shaped by decades of professional cycling experience and a passion for authentic travel. With small groups, expert hosts, and beautifully curated routes, you’ll experience each destination the way cyclists truly love to ride.
Tour Type 
Challenging Bike Tour
Fully Guided
PB Cycling Guides & Support Vehicle
Small Group
8 Guests
Cycling Level
Challenging 90km / 55mi per day
Packages
5* Hotel AU$ 8925 pp
4* Hotel AU$ 7665 pp
3* Hotel AU$ 7235 pp
Self-Stay AU$ 5665 pp
(Accommodation not included)
Custom Trip
Prefer different dates or a private experience?
Contact Us:
Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll shape the perfect cycling experience around your plans.
Centre Based Cycling
Lucerne, Switzerland
Season
June – September
Duration
5 Nights / 6 Days
Distance
495km/310mi
Elevation
7350m/24000ft
Add-Ons
Single Occupancy AU$ 1395
Bike Hire AU$ 700
Your Cycling Holiday, Reimagined
Imagine arriving at your cycling destination, settling into one beautiful hotel, and knowing you won’t have to repack again. No rushed check‑outs, no daily transfers, no stress — just pure riding pleasure.
Our centre‑based model is designed by Practice Bicycle Tours to give you the most effortless and immersive cycling experience possible. Every route begins and ends at your hand‑picked hotel, letting you relax, explore, and truly feel at home.
Lucerne is Switzerland at its most breathtaking — a serene lakeside city framed by snow‑capped peaks, crystal‑clear water, and some of the most beautifully engineered cycling roads in Europe. From your perfectly located base on Lake Lucerne, world‑class riding unfolds in every direction: rolling lakeside routes, quiet forest climbs, panoramic ridge roads, and access to the iconic passes of Central Switzerland. With its elegant old town, relaxed atmosphere, and endless alpine scenery, Lucerne is the ideal one‑location base for an unforgettable Switzerland cycling holiday.
Designed for cyclists who love rewarding climbs, varied terrain, and the thrill of exploring dramatic alpine landscapes. Lucerne offers a perfect blend of steady ascents, flowing descents, and spectacular viewpoints — from lakeside climbs to high‑mountain passes that test the legs and reward the effort with sweeping panoramas. Each day delivers a satisfying mix of challenge, achievement, and Swiss precision, all beginning and ending at your comfortable Lucerne base.
Settle in. Ride more. Experience cycling as it was meant to be.
I'd like to write a short note of thanks following our recent trip with Practice Bicycle Tours. We spent 10 days cycling in the French Alps followed by 5 days in the Swiss Alps. This was one of the best holidays we have had for a long time! The professional manner in which our trip was managed by Bridget and Paul meant we didn't have to worry about any detail of our holiday in Europe. And as busy working people, that is what we consider a real break.
Fantastic memories of the Sustenpass trip with the Bratwurst stop. This tour will not be forgotten for a very long time, it was impressive.
Look forward to Practicebicycle with you again.
Fantastic memories of the Sustenpass trip with the Bratwurst stop. This tour will not be forgotten for a very long time, it was impressive.
Look forward to Practicebicycle with you again.
Bruce – Australia
Dates
Looking for different dates?
If your travel plans don’t match our scheduled departures, we also offer:
• Private departures (June–September) • Women‑specific private tours • Tailored itineraries for couples, friends, or small groups
Share your preferred dates and we’ll create the ideal ride for you.
Switzerland Cycling Tour Lucerne Itinerary
One luxury base in Lucerne, legendary alpine climbs, jaw dropping lake and mountain scenery — this is the ultimate epic Swiss cycling vacation.
Swiss Alps ride routes each day of 40-110km / 25-68mi with majestic climbs.
Switzerland Cycling Tour
Arrival Day – Welcome to the Alps
Distance 30km / 18mi Elevation Gain 630m / 2000ft
Welcome to Lucerne — a city where lake and mountains meet in spectacular harmony. After your transfer settle into one exceptional hotel in Lucerne and spend the week conquering the majestic roads of Central Switzerland. No packing and unpacking — just pure riding, recovery, and remarkable alpine experiences.
We will prepare the bikes and ease into the week with a warm-up ride in the shadows of Mount Pilatus.
This first spin is designed to awaken the legs and ignite your excitement for the days ahead. Back on the shores of Lake Lucerne, relax and enjoy a stylish welcome dinner — the perfect start to a challenging week of Swiss cycling.
Welcome to Lucerne — a city where lake and mountains meet in spectacular harmony. After your transfer settle into one exceptional hotel in Lucerne and spend the week conquering the majestic roads of Central Switzerland. No packing and unpacking — just pure riding, recovery, and remarkable alpine experiences.
We will prepare the bikes and ease into the week with a warm-up ride in the shadows of Mount Pilatus.
This first spin is designed to awaken the legs and ignite your excitement for the days ahead. Back on the shores of Lake Lucerne, relax and enjoy a stylish welcome dinner — the perfect start to a challenging week of Swiss cycling.
Switzerland Cycling Tour
Glaubenberg Challenge
*Ride Option
Distance 40km / 25mi Elevation Gain 1100m / 3600ft
Distance 85km / 53mi Elevation Gain 1250m / 4100ft
Today the real climbing begins. Rolling out from Lucerne, we ride through pristine countryside and shimmering lakes before heading upward to the beautiful and demanding Glaubenberg Pass.
This is Swiss alpine riding at its best — steady gradients, immaculate roads, and panoramic views that reward every turn of the pedals. A true introduction to the rhythm of the mountains.
*The itinerary comprises a selection of challenging ride routes, our local knowledge of the roads allows for flexibility or route changes as required. Had enough for the day jump in the support vehicle for your ride back to Lucerne.
Distance 40km / 25mi Elevation Gain 1100m / 3600ft
Distance 85km / 53mi Elevation Gain 1250m / 4100ft
Today the real climbing begins. Rolling out from Lucerne, we ride through pristine countryside and shimmering lakes before heading upward to the beautiful and demanding Glaubenberg Pass.
This is Swiss alpine riding at its best — steady gradients, immaculate roads, and panoramic views that reward every turn of the pedals. A true introduction to the rhythm of the mountains.
*The itinerary comprises a selection of challenging ride routes, our local knowledge of the roads allows for flexibility or route changes as required. Had enough for the day jump in the support vehicle for your ride back to Lucerne.
Switzerland Cycling Tour
Around the Rigi
*Ride Option
Distance 39km / 24mi Elevation Gain 200m / 650ft
Distance 85km / 53mi Elevation Gain 550m / 1800ft
Encircling the legendary Rigi — known as the “Queen of the Mountains” — today’s ride blends flowing lakeside roads with classic alpine scenery.
For those ready to raise the stakes, we can extend the challenge toward the iconic Klausen Pass, adding a long, rewarding ascent deep into the Swiss Alps. As always, routes are tailored to match your ambition and ability.
Distance 39km / 24mi Elevation Gain 200m / 650ft
Distance 85km / 53mi Elevation Gain 550m / 1800ft
Encircling the legendary Rigi — known as the “Queen of the Mountains” — today’s ride blends flowing lakeside roads with classic alpine scenery.
For those ready to raise the stakes, we can extend the challenge toward the iconic Klausen Pass, adding a long, rewarding ascent deep into the Swiss Alps. As always, routes are tailored to match your ambition and ability.
Switzerland Cycling Tour
Into the Wild Entlebuch
*Ride Option
Distance 56km / 34mi Elevation Gain 990m / 3200ft
Distance 110km / 68mi Elevation Gain 1415m / 4600ft
Today we venture into the spectacular UNESCO-listed biosphere of Entlebuch — a landscape of open valleys and dramatic alpine foothills.
The highlight is the steady and scenic ascent of the Glaubenbielen Pass. This longer climb rewards patience and pacing, offering expansive views and a true sense of immersion in Switzerland’s untouched beauty.
Distance 56km / 34mi Elevation Gain 990m / 3200ft
Distance 110km / 68mi Elevation Gain 1415m / 4600ft
Today we venture into the spectacular UNESCO-listed biosphere of Entlebuch — a landscape of open valleys and dramatic alpine foothills.
The highlight is the steady and scenic ascent of the Glaubenbielen Pass. This longer climb rewards patience and pacing, offering expansive views and a true sense of immersion in Switzerland’s untouched beauty.
Switzerland Cycling Tour
Brunig Pass Finish in Style
*Ride Option
Distance 70km / 43mi Elevation Gain 650m / 2100ft
Distance 95km / 60mi Elevation Gain 850m / 2800ft
Our final ride together delivers a fitting finale. We crest the historic Brünig Pass, a classic gateway through the Alps.
If the legs are still hungry for altitude, the ultimate optional extension awaits: the legendary Susten Pass. Climbing high into thin mountain air, it’s a breathtaking conclusion to an unforgettable week.
Whether you choose steady celebration or one last epic summit, you’ll finish knowing you’ve truly ridden the Swiss Alps.
Distance 70km / 43mi Elevation Gain 650m / 2100ft
Distance 95km / 60mi Elevation Gain 850m / 2800ft
Our final ride together delivers a fitting finale. We crest the historic Brünig Pass, a classic gateway through the Alps.
If the legs are still hungry for altitude, the ultimate optional extension awaits: the legendary Susten Pass. Climbing high into thin mountain air, it’s a breathtaking conclusion to an unforgettable week.
Whether you choose steady celebration or one last epic summit, you’ll finish knowing you’ve truly ridden the Swiss Alps.
Switzerland Cycling Tour
Departure Day from Lucerne
After breakfast, we transfer you to Zurich International Airport or Lucerne Train Station for your onward travels.
You leave stronger, inspired, and forever connected to the mountains of Central Switzerland.
One hotel in Lucerne. Five extraordinary rides. Countless unforgettable moments
You leave stronger, inspired, and forever connected to the mountains of Central Switzerland.
One hotel in Lucerne. Five extraordinary rides. Countless unforgettable moments
Your Switzerland Cycling holiday begins and ends at Zurich International Airport (Switzerland), where we personally meet you for your included airport transfer to Lucerne. Arrival day transfers depart at 2.00pm, giving you time to settle in before the week of riding begins. On departure day, we return you to the airport by midday for onward travel
We suggest international guests arrive one night before the tour to rest, adjust to the local time zone, and enjoy a smooth start to your Switzerland cycling holiday. A convenient option is the Holiday Inn Express Zurich Airport, which includes a complimentary airport shuttle.
If you’re already travelling in Europe, Lucerne is easy to reach by several comfortable and reliable transport options:
Air Travel
The closest airport is Zurich International Airport (Switzerland), serviced by many major airlines including:
Swiss International Air Lines, British Airways, American Airlines, KLM, Delta, United, Air France, and Air Canada.
From Zurich Airport, Lucerne is easily reached by train, car, or private transfer.
Train Travel
For train lovers, the Rail Europe TGV network brings you directly to Lucerne from many of Europe’s capital cities.
Switzerland’s rail system is exceptionally efficient, offering a smooth and scenic journey into Central Switzerland.
Car Travel
Worldwide car‑rental companies operate from Zurich Airport, and the A2 Autoroute network brings you directly to Lucerne.
Driving through Switzerland offers beautiful alpine and lakeside scenery, making it an enjoyable option for guests who prefer the freedom of a car.
Your Switzerland cycling holiday accommodation in Lucerne is chosen for comfort, convenience, and a relaxed lakeside atmosphere — the perfect base for exploring Central Switzerland. Each hotel is ideally located for easy access to Lake Lucerne, the historic old town, and our daily ride start point, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the rhythm of the week without any transfers or packing.
Lucerne offers a wonderful blend of medieval charm, alpine scenery, and Swiss café culture. After each day’s ride, you can unwind along the lakeside promenade, wander the cobbled streets of the old town, visit the iconic Chapel Bridge, or simply relax at your hotel and soak up the serene beauty of this remarkable city.
If you prefer to arrange your own accommodation, our Self‑Stay option gives you complete flexibility while still enjoying the full Practice Bicycle riding experience.
5* Lakeside Grand Hotel National Luzern Switzerland
4* Hotel Hofgarten Luzern Switzerland
3* Hotel Rebstock Luzern Switzerland
Great cycling deserves great food, and Lucerne offers a wonderfully refined yet relaxed dining culture to enjoy throughout your Switzerland cycling holiday. Your tour begins with a welcoming first‑night dinner, a gentle introduction to the flavours of Central Switzerland and the warm hospitality of this lakeside city.
During your ride days, we facilitate café and bakery stops, giving you the chance to enjoy Switzerland’s excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and the simple pleasure of pausing in charming villages or beside the lake as we explore the region.
At the end of your tour together, you’ll enjoy a relaxed celebration dinner, a chance to share stories, reflect on your favourite rides, and savour one final evening in beautiful Lucerne.
Between these two hosted evenings, Lucerne invites you to discover your own favourites throughout the week. Whether you’re drawn to traditional Swiss dishes or curious to explore something new, the city offers a delicious variety of local specialities:
Rösti for the potato lovers — crisp, golden, and deeply comforting
Chügelipastete, Lucerne’s sensational take on a Swiss meat pie
Chäs Chüechli, warm mini cheese tarts that make a perfect snack
Luzerner Lebkuchen, a gingerbread cake unique to Lucerne, made with the juice of cider pears
And for beer lovers — Lucerne’s local brews won’t disappoint
Wine enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy. Switzerland produces complex, elegant wines that rarely leave the country. Look out for the tag “Mémoire des Vins Suisses” — a mark of exceptional quality. You’ll find:
Pinot Noirs with a world‑class finish from the Lucerne region
Textbook Sauvignon Blancs from Central Switzerland
And to finish the evening, a Swiss brandy — smooth, refined, and exceptional
And of course… the Hugo Spritz — light, refreshing, and very Swiss.
Throughout your stay, you’ll have the freedom to explore Lucerne’s restaurants, wine bars, and lakeside dining spots at your own pace. Whether you prefer a relaxed post‑ride meal or something a little more indulgent, we’re always happy to recommend our favourite local places.
Please note that drinks are not included in this tour package.
Whether you bring your own bike or prefer to hire one, we make the process smooth and effortless. Our hire bikes are expertly maintained, perfectly suited to the Switzerland cycling holiday alpine terrain, and set up for you with care so you can enjoy every climb and descent with confidence.
If you’re travelling with your own bike, we’re here to help with assembly, adjustments, and daily support. Each ride includes a support vehicle, carrying everything you might need — including extra layers — so you can focus entirely on the road ahead.
We also provide sports drinks and nutritional bars each day to keep you fuelled throughout the week.
You’ll find a selection of our bike options just below, allowing you to choose the setup that suits your riding style.
Lapierre Xelius Disc Brake Di2 Shimano 12 Speed 50,34 x 11-34
Raymon Electric Road/Gravel Carbon Disc Brake Bosch Compact Tube, 400 Wh, 36 V
Cannondale & Fuji Rim Brake Shimano compact 50,34 x 12-34
Lapierre Disc Brake Di2 Raymon Electric Road Cannondale Rim Brake Fuji Rim Brake
This Switzerland cycling tour is ideal for riders who enjoy steady climbing, rewarding distances, and the satisfaction of a good day’s ride. You don’t need to be fast — just comfortable spending several hours on the bike and confident on varied terrain. Our small‑group format allows us to support your pace while still offering a fulfilling alpine experience.
If you prefer to arrange your own Switzerland cycling holiday accommodation, our Self‑Stay option offers complete flexibility while still enjoying the full Practice Bicycle experience. You’ll join us each day for the guided rides, support vehicle, airport transfers, and hosted dinners — all the elements that make our tours special — while staying in the accommodation that best suits your plans.
It’s an ideal choice for independent travellers, couples with different interests, or guests who simply enjoy selecting their own place to stay. We make everything seamless, so you can enjoy the same exceptional week of riding with the freedom to tailor your stay in Lucerne.
What’s included:
* Airport pick-up & drop-off Zurich International Airport (Switzerland) (tour arrival 2.00pm & departure midday)
* 2 dinners – Welcome and Farewell to celebrate amazing cycling together
* 5 challenging & epic rides in Central Switzerland
* Spectacular cycling routes including the Swiss Alps and Lakes
* Highly experienced cycling guide
* Sports drinks & nutritional bars
* Support vehicle for the daily rides
Practice Bicycle Switzerland Cycling holidays started long ago…
Many years of our affinity with the ‘Swiss Alps’ sharing these untouched landscapes with our cycling guests….
We met Paul & Bridget (Practice Bicycle Tours) in Australia, we did a cycling trip of a lifetime! We experienced 3 uniquely different cycling locations Provence France, Lake Annecy Tour de France and had our dream bike riding trip in Lucerne Switzerland. PB are like swiss clocks – everything was just perfect!
We rode the Swiss Alps (sensational!) round beautiful lakes, stopped in stunning villages and towns around for coffee & cake and enjoy swiss way of life! Memories of ‘swiss drinks’ each evening by the Rathaus Brauerei fantastic atmosphere! 4 star Hotel was exceptional, they indulged us with variety swiss cuisine…as lovers of wine, we experienced a private swiss wine tasting afternoon amongst the vines on the edge Lake Lucerne! We came for great cycling, landscapes and fantastic food, and to discover different places to ride and we recieved exceptional holiday experiences! Those peaks will stay with us forever!
Troy & Tammy – Australia
I’d like to write a short note of thanks following our recent trip with Practice Bicycle Tours. We spent 10 days cycling in the French Alps followed by 5 days in the Swiss Alps. This was one of the best holidays we have had for a long time! The professional manner in which our trip was managed by Bridget and Paul meant we didn’t have to worry about any detail of our holiday in Europe. And as busy working people, that is what we consider a real break.
Fantastic memories of the Sustenpass trip with the Bratwurst stop. This tour will not be forgotten for a very long time, it was impressive.
Look forward to Practicebicycle with you again.
Angie & Bruce – Australia
We met Practice Bicycle Tours for our first European cycling trip in 2008! We have surpassed their ride ‘menu’, tailored cycling is their forte (they are the very best at it) fine food & wine (a nice mix of rustic, local and fine dining) amazing landscapes is Switzerland are just some of the highlights. We have done the Tour Romandie, Tour of Swiss Bike Race Tour and rode the famous peaks around Lucerne on our Swiss Cycling Tour -wow!
We continue to love the Practice Bicycle ride!
John & Catherine – Australia
Lake Annecy to Lake Lucerne 2 fantastic weeks of cycling and relaxing in 2 of the most beautiful places in the world to bicycle. Our Tour de France week was out of this world staying in Annecy Centre for the week was fabulous and seeing the bike race, we transferred 3 hrs into Switzerland for more stunning views, landscapes,mountains & villages. So much beauty the delightful bikerides, some super challenging – great ride support and Josef Swiss man – just lovely! (Thanks for helping me with my sore back!) Our private biketour from Swiss fireworks, celebratory very large beers and bratworst in the mountains, and enjoyed to wander around old and new lucerne, and feel like a swiss local for a few days. 2 Trips of a lifetime!
Byron & Yvonne – Australia
Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque and welcoming cities — a place where medieval architecture, alpine scenery, and the calm waters of Lake Lucerne come together in a beautifully relaxed atmosphere. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, it’s the perfect base for a Switzerland cycling holiday week of cycling and unwinding.
During your stay, you can stroll the lakeside promenade, wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, and visit the iconic Chapel Bridge with its painted medieval panels. Explore the Lion Monument, browse the boutique shops and cafés, or simply sit by the water and enjoy the serene alpine backdrop.
Lucerne also offers easy access to some of Central Switzerland’s most memorable experiences. Take a leisurely cruise on Lake Lucerne, ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus, or enjoy the panoramic views from Mount Rigi, known as the “Queen of the Mountains”. Each offers a different perspective on the region’s dramatic landscapes.
For those who enjoy a touch of culture, Lucerne is home to the striking Kultur- und Kongresszentrum (KKL), designed by Jean Nouvel, and hosts a vibrant arts scene throughout the year. Markets, lakeside festivals, and classical concerts add to the city’s gentle charm.
With our one‑location stay, you can settle in and savour the week without transfers or packing. And when evening comes, Lucerne’s restaurants and wine bars offer everything from traditional Swiss dishes to modern alpine cuisine — all in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
A beautiful lakeside city, and the perfect home for your Switzerland cycling vacation in Central Switzerland.
Our centre‑based tours mean you stay in one hotel for the entire trip. No packing, no transfers, no stress — just great riding every day from the same comfortable base.
Switzerland Cycling Tour Includes
Switzerland Cycling Tour Experience
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