Lucerne Old Town / Bahnhofstrasse

Hotel Wilden Mann Lucerne

★★★★★

The Hotel Wilden Mann, on the Bahnhofstrasse in Lucerne's Old Town, is a house steeped in history: the building's story as a place of hospitality goes back around 500 years, when it began as a bar and then a tavern, and it has operated as a hotel since 1860. Over the centuries it grew to include several neighbouring old houses, which explains its charming warren of corridors, staircases and rooms on different levels. Today it belongs to the Romantik Hotels and Swiss Historic Hotels groups, both of which select properties for their character and history, and it is one of the most atmospheric places to stay in Lucerne. The hotel has 48 rooms in six categories, from classic singles and doubles to superior rooms, junior suites and suites, each individually furnished, many with antique pieces, wooden beams, period details and soft fabrics, combined with modern bathrooms and comforts. The restaurant spaces are as much a part of the experience as the rooms: wood-panelled dining rooms with centuries of character serve Swiss and seasonal cooking, including Lucerne specialities, and in summer a terrace adds outdoor dining. The location is excellent. The Bahnhofstrasse runs along the south bank of the Reuss, at the edge of the Old Town, a few minutes' walk from the station, the Chapel Bridge and the Jesuit Church, and the Old Town squares, the Musegg Wall and the lake promenade are all close by on foot. The hotel carries the Swisstainable sustainability label and an accessibility label. Rates are mid-range for Lucerne, which, combined with the character and the central position, makes it one of the best-value choices in the city, particularly for couples and travellers who prefer charm to luxury facilities.

What to expect: the Wilden Mann feels like a historic inn rather than a modern hotel, and that is its charm. Rooms vary greatly in size and layout, as you would expect in a building of this age, so check the category descriptions and ask for a quieter room if needed. Some rooms are compact, and the historic structure means floors creak and corridors twist, but the warmth and character make up for it. Service is personal and friendly, in the tradition of a family-style house.

Eating and drinking: the restaurant is a destination in its own right, popular with locals for Swiss classics in a historic setting. Try Lucerne's Chuegelipastete, the vol-au-vent with veal and mushrooms in cream sauce, or seasonal game in autumn. The summer terrace is a pleasant spot for lunch, and breakfast is served in the historic rooms. Book dinner ahead at weekends.

Location and who it suits: the hotel is ideal for travellers who want to explore Lucerne on foot, with the Chapel Bridge, the Jesuit Church and the station within a few minutes, and the boat piers for Rigi and Pilatus just across the river. It suits couples, history lovers and travellers on a moderate budget who want an authentic Swiss experience. Those who want a lake view, a spa or modern minimalism should look at the lakefront hotels instead, but for a sense of old Lucerne, the Wilden Mann is hard to beat.