Hotel: Grand Hotel National

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Expert Review of Grand Hotel National

Family Review of Grand Hotel National

By Away Travel Expert : Christine Loomis

Family Expert Favorite

Family Expert Rating

Recommended for:
Children of all ages

Family Expert Tips & Helpful Hints

Children stay free.
Rooms have refrigerators, a bonus for families with young children who need snacks often, and in-room movies for those moments when you want to take a break from sightseeing and relax.
The hotel is located 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles) from the train station and a very short walk from the Lion Monument and Glacier Gardens.

On the luxury end, the five-star Grand Hotel National is a treasure for families with every amenity imaginable. Back in 1870, the hotel was managed by none other than Cesar Ritz, accompanied by his chef, the esteemed Auguste Escoffier. Today, the 41-room hotel has retained its refined air and with three restaurants, a pool, and a spa, it's designed to make staying in Lucerne a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Travel Review of Grand Hotel National

By Away Travel Expert :

This is a monumental landmark and the former home base of Cesar Ritz. Although tourist officials rank it behind the Schweizerhof, we appreciate its lack of stiffness. Built "in the style of the French kings," this legend among Swiss hotels has a huge facade of gray stone, with a mansard roof and dozens of gables. Constructed in 1870, when visitors were just beginning to discover Lake Lucerne, it looks like a wing of the château at Versailles. Guests have included monarchs and diplomats from all over Europe. Between 1977 and 1980, the owner reconstructed this grand palace and installed modern conveniences. The main lobby is stately and elegant, one of the grandest in Lucerne. The predictably varied bedrooms are among the most comfortable and luxurious in the city, with thick carpets and old-fashioned charm, often with a four-poster canopied bed. Many have private balconies with a view of the lake. The bathrooms are opulent in white marble.

Star Rating: 3 (Frommer's Exceptional)

Visitor Information

Check in: 3:00 PM

Check out: 12:00 PM

Hotel Class:

Currency: CHF

Description:

Welcome to the Grand Hotel National in Lucerne. Established in 1871 this unique castle by the lake combines the comfort of a luxury hotel with genuine Swiss hospitality. Beautifully situated on the shore of Lake Lucerne, next to major sights and shopping district. 60 km from Zurich airport (1 hour by car or train).