Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Ebikon is waiting to be discovered by travellers seeking a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities.
This picturesque town, not far from Lucerne, offers a unique experience that combines historical charm with contemporary comforts: cozy cafes, restaurants offering local and international cuisine, boutiques, shops, Switzerland’s second largest shopping mall, and even a Fashion Photo Studio! The friendly locals add a warm touch to the town’s atmosphere, making visitors feel welcome and at home.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing retreat or an active holiday, Ebikon has something to offer for every taste. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Ebikon special and why it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary! Here our pick of cool things to see and do in Ebikon, Switzerland:
01. Explore Natural Beauty:
Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Ebikon is a paradise for nature lovers, offering stunning views of crystal-clear waters against a backdrop of majestic mountains.
The town is situated near Lucerne, at Lake Rot, often referred to as Lake Lucerne’s little brother.
The Rotsee area is a Nature Reserve. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade or embark on a boat tour to truly appreciate the beauty of the region.
Swimming is only allowed at one spot: Lake Rot lido. Children love the playground at the rowing centre there, because of its long slide.
Not far from Ebikon lies a Kneipp Garden, easily accessible through a serene walk amidst lush greenery along a babbling brook. Pause by the pond to relish the tranquility before continuing to the Kneipp facility.
For those seeking more adventure, hiking trails in the nearby hills provide a chance to explore the Swiss countryside.
02. Visit Cultural and Historical Sites:
Ebikon boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects the town’s long history, dating back to the 9th century.
The charming streets are lined with traditional Swiss architecture, including well-preserved houses that tell tales of the past. A stroll through the town center will lead you to historic landmarks such as the Parish Church of St. Mary.
Not far from Ebikon, in Lucerne, the Swiss Museum of Transport, also known as Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, showcases diverse forms of transportation, including trains, automobiles, ships, aircraft, and communication technology. In addition to its extensive collection, the museum features a planetarium, a large-format cinema, and a 1:20,000 scale aerial photograph of Switzerland.
Explore the rich heritage of transportation and enjoy additional attractions within this iconic museum, hailed as Switzerland’s most popular by locals and tourists alike!
In Meggen, about 15 minutes car drive from Ebikon, there is hidden gem for art lovers and philanthropists: GRACE Gallery, a generous venture that donates all its proceeds to charity and serves as a powerful agent for social change.
Immerse yourself in the local history and appreciate the region’s diverse array of museums and galleries with the Lucerne Museum Card, allowing you to visit multiple museums over two consecutive days.
03. Indulge in Swiss and International Cuisine:
Switzerland is famous for its delicious chocolate, cheese, and diverse cuisine. Zurich, for example, is one of the hottest food destinations in Europe!
Ebikon and its surroundings have a lot to offer in that regard as well! Explore local cafes and restaurants to savour Swiss specialties like cheese fondue and raclette. Sample some Swiss chocolate from a local chocolatier.
Something educational and fun to do, is the Swiss Chocolate Adventure at Verkehrshaus der Schweiz. Embark on a multimedia expedition, where the transformation of cocoa beans from Ghana into the renowned Swiss chocolate is unveiled. Engage in a captivating journey of discovery, exploring intriguing details about the chocolate’s discovery, origin, production, and transportation.
Using sight, hearing, smell, and taste, visitors traverse themed islands in specially designed praliné-shaped cars, creating an immersive experience that appeals to all senses. Following the thrilling adventure ride, an opportunity awaits to sample a variety of creations crafted by Lindt’s master chocolatiers.
Another recommendation is the Brewery Tour at Brauerei Eichhof, proud producer of the local beer that has been appreciated throughout the whole country for more than 180 years. The tour takes about 2.5h, and includes a tasting and a little snack!
The area around Ebikon is foodie heaven! Many extraordinary restaurants grace the villages along the lake, up in the mountains, and in the city of Lucerne. One extraordinary restaurant, for example, is the focus Atelier at Park Hotel Vitznau, just about 30 minutes drive from Ebikon. It has two Michelin stars!
When making choices about where to stay and dine, here the best resources: Guide Michelin, Gault Millau, Swissdeluxe Hotels.
04. Attend Local Events:
Check for any events, festivals, or markets happening in and around Ebikon during your visit.
Throughout the year, Ebikon hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its cultural vibrancy. Whether it’s a traditional Swiss festival, a music concert, or a local market, these events provide an opportunity to engage with the community and experience the town’s lively spirit. Check the local calendar when planning your visit to ensure you catch one of these delightful celebrations!
In February, carnival fever sweeps Switzerland, granting locals and tourists to revel in merriment. Known as Fasnacht in the German-speaking regions, the carnival marks a time of celebration, including old Germanic practices and rituals. The carnival season signifies a spirited prelude before the contemplative period of Lent, which varies each year based on the Easter date.
Speaking of: Easter, Valentine’s Day, Spring Break… consider Ebikon and the region of Lake Lucerne for a short vacation around these events. Watch the beautiful nature awaken and the first flowers bloom in Switzerland!
Sources: Swiss Tourism, Municipality of Ebikon, Kulturwerk Ebikon, Luzern Tourismus
05. Book a Fashion Photo Shoot:
Unleash your inner style icon and capture the essence of your journey to Ebikon with a bespoke fashion photoshoot!
Every adventure is a chapter in your life story, and what better way to commemorate it than through stunning visuals? A fashion photoshoot in Ebikon not only sublimes your travel to Switzerland but also becomes a timeless expression of your individuality.
Celebrate your travels by embracing your unique style, creating lasting memories, and turning every moment into a work of art. Book a fashion photoshoot in Ebikon – because your journey deserves to be remembered in Vogue-worthy frames!
Directly in Ebikon, we can recommend CLICK PHOTO STUDIO, situated at Zentralstrasse 14, 6030 Ebikon, Switzerland. The team will take expertly care of you and make you shine in front of the camera! From ZED Card, via PORTFOLIO, and BOUDOIR, to DELUXE… find the right Package for you at www.click-foto-studio.com.
Some self-love for Valentine’s Day, or maybe as a gift for a beloved? Elevate your allure with the Exclusive Fabulous February Special at CLICK Photo Studio! Enjoy a gracious 25% introductory rebate on any bespoke styling package throughout the month. Indulge in the artistry of sophistication as the skilled team orchestrates a symphony of style and grace just for you.
Secure your appointment now for an unparalleled journey into refined glamour. This unique experience – the confidence, and joy captured in these photos – will create lasting memories, making your trip to Switzerland one to remember.
06. Discover and Shop Swiss Watches:
Switzerland is renowned for its watchmaking industry. Several famous watchmakers are located in Lucerne, not far from Ebikon.
Visit the House of Chronoswiss, for example, and experience an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at watchmaking. Through glass panes and large screens, observe skilled watchmakers assembling mechanical wristwatches in the show workshop.
This hour-long tour unveils the meticulous craft of watchmaking, highlighting the intricate arts of guilloching, skeletonising, and enamelling in the dial manufacturing workshop. Explore the brand‘s 30-plus-year history in the Historama and conclude your visit by browsing and purchasing products from the current collection in the boutique.
Another iconic watchmaker located in Lucerne near Ebikon is Carl F. Bucherer. With 130 years of history, the famous watch brand remains proudly owned by its founding family. Rooted in the cosmopolitan spirit of Lucerne, the brand’s success story is artfully told through minimalistic gold imagery against the baroque backdrop of its hometown.
The claim “Made of Lucerne” encapsulates the brand’s essence, symbolizing Swiss watchmaking excellence, exquisite design, and groundbreaking innovation. Since 1888, when founder Carl Friedrich Bucherer opened the first specialty shop in Lucerne, the brand has evolved while staying true to its roots. With its boutique, Carl F. Bucherer invites visitors to immerse themselves in the brand’s world, showcasing understated luxury and reflecting the cosmopolitan nature of Lucerne.
There are many watch boutiques and shops in and around Ebikon, inviting you to admire true Swiss craftsmanship. An address you should put on your Switzerland travel bucket list is the Mall of Switzerland, a shopping paradise, but not only…
07. Shop ’til you drop!
Dive into shopaholic paradise at Ebikon’s crown jewel – the Mall of Switzerland!
Brace yourself for the ultimate retail therapy in Switzerland’s second-largest shopping center. From high-end fashion to tech havens and gourmet delights, this mall is a one-stop-shop for all your cravings. Swipe those credit cards, indulge in a spree, and let the Mall of Switzerland redefine your shopping game. Say goodbye to retail FOMO – this is where fashion fantasies and tech dreams come to life!
When you are headed out there, don’t forget to take your swim suit! Right at the Mall, Oana Surf, Ebikon’s in-house Citywave, awaits you! With 1,200m2 of pure surf bliss, this unique venue offers the best waves, a restaurant and lounge serving delicious bowls, a bar, a surf store, and numerous events centred around the popular wave sport.
With tropical water temperatures and waves reaching up to 1.4 meters, the indoor wave caters to surfers of all levels – from beginners to pros – making it a year-round haven for wave enthusiasts. Create unforgettable moments by incorporating an extraordinary and sporty experience into your visit of the region!
Oana is not the only restaurant at the Mall. You can find a full list of shops, leisure, and food offerings at www.mallofswitzerland.ch.
08. Relax at Hotels, Spas and Wellness Centres
Switzerland has a very high concentration of 5-star and 4-star superior hotels, with top notch restaurants, and spas.
Indulge in the lap of luxury amidst the charming landscapes of Ebikon, Lucerne, and vicinity. Discover opulent accommodations at the finest luxury hotels, where impeccable service meets world-class amenities. Savor exquisite culinary delights at upscale restaurants that redefine gastronomic experiences. For the ultimate relaxation, immerse yourself in lavish spa retreats, where tranquility and rejuvenation become an art form.
In and around Ebikon, a symphony of luxury awaits, promising an unforgettable escape where every moment is touched by refinement and sophistication. To name just a few of the finest houses in the region:
The Bürgenstock Hotel: Nestled on the Bürgenberg mountain, this iconic luxury hotel offers panoramic views of Lake Lucerne. With opulent suites, world-class dining, and an exceptional spa, it is the epitome of Swiss luxury.
Park Hotel Vitznau: Overlooking Lake Lucerne, the Park Hotel Vitznau is a historic gem that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Luxurious rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and a serene spa make it a premier destination.
Hotel Villa Honegg: Perched on the Bürgenberg mountain, Hotel Villa Honegg offers unparalleled views of Lake Lucerne. This boutique hotel boasts an infinity pool, gourmet dining, and exclusive suites, providing an intimate and luxurious escape.
Grand Hotel National Luzern: Situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne, the Grand Hotel National Luzern is a landmark of luxury. With its classic charm, gourmet restaurants, and impeccable service, it’s an ideal retreat for those seeking refined elegance near Ebikon.
Art Deco Hotel Montana: Perched on a hillside connected to Lake Lucerne by Switzerland’s shortest funicular, this hotel offers gourmet dining, and spacious rooms with designer furniture and lake-view balconies. Awarded “Hotel of the Year 2018/2019” in Switzerland, the hotel’s Scala Restaurant boasts 15 Gault Millau points, while the Louis Bar hosts live jazz jam sessions, creating an elegant haven with panoramic views over Lucerne, the lake, and the Alps.
09. Take Public Transport to get there:
Swiss public transportation is known for its efficiency. Consider taking a scenic train or boat ride to Ebikon and nearby towns. This can provide not only a convenient mode of transportation but also breathtaking views of the Swiss countryside.
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) runs a train service from Luzern to Ebikon every half an hour, with tickets priced between SFr 10 and SFr 18 for a 7-minute journey. Alternatively, VBL operates a bus from Luzern, Bahnhof to Ebikon, Ladengasse every 10 minutes, offering tickets at SFr 3 – SFr 5 for a 14-minute ride.
No excursion to Central Switzerland is complete without a Lake Lucerne boat cruise. The Lake Lucerne Navigation Company (SGV) offers diverse options, from lunch cruises on the modern MS Diamant to romantic sunset voyages on antique paddle steamers. With five nostalgic steamers and 14 elegant motor boats, the SGV fleet covers 38 kilometers, showcasing picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks like Ruetli Meadow and William Tell’s chapel.
Explore the Alpine wonders by combining boat rides with cog railways, ascending Rigi for breathtaking views. Experience the unique Gotthard Panorama Express, a premium train-boat journey, crossing Lake Lucerne before embarking on a historic Gotthard route towards Ticino.
10. Connect with Locals:
Swiss people are known for their friendliness.
Strike up a conversation with locals at cafes, markets, or parks to get insider tips on hidden gems in and around Ebikon.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an active holiday, Ebikon has something to offer for every taste. Who better to ask, than the people who live there?
Ebikon may not be the most well-known destination in Switzerland, but it undoubtedly holds its own in terms of charm, history, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or someone simply seeking a tranquil escape, Ebikon has something to offer for everyone. Add this destination to your travel list, and discover the magic that awaits in the heart of Switzerland.
Remember to check for any travel advisories or updated information before planning your visit. Enjoy your time in Switzerland!