Gütschbahn funicular, Water-powered funicular in Lucerne, Switzerland
The Gütschbahn funicular connects Baselstrasse with the upper station near Château Gütsch hotel, ascending 90 meters through a twin-track configuration over 170 meters.
Inaugurated in 1884, the funicular operated continuously until 2008, underwent a complete reconstruction, and resumed service in September 2015 under Verkehrsbetriebe Luzern management.
The upper station provides access to the Château Gütsch hotel, constructed between 1881 and 1883 following architectural elements similar to European castles.
Operating daily from 4:30 AM to 1:15 AM, the funicular accepts zone 10 bus tickets and travel passes, with each cabin accommodating eight passengers.
The Gütschbahn stands as Switzerland's oldest four-rail installation still in operation, with only ten similar parallel-track systems remaining worldwide.
Location: Lucerne
Official opening: August 22, 1884
GPS coordinates: 47.05163,8.29605
Latest update: September 27, 2025 15:21
These funicular railways cross steep slopes and connect cities with mountain summits. From historic lines in old quarters to modern installations in the Alps, each route provides different views of its region. The technical facilities transport passengers across elevation differences of up to 710 meters.
Gütsch castle
79 m
Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne
432 m
Historical Museum (collection)
440 m
Natur-Museum Luzern
380 m
St. Karl
524 m
Männliturm
413 m
Anderallmend-Haus
344 m
Staatsarchiv Luzern
303 m
Synagogue of Lucerne
544 m
Nölliturm
318 m
Senti hospital with church St. Jakob
104 m
Liebenauhaus
554 m
Former Arsenal
421 m
Schlössli Schönegg
134 m
Old Chapel of St. Charles
530 m
Roncahaus im Zöpfli
576 m
Neptunbrunnen
529 m
Casino of the Gentlemen at Schützen
532 m
Corporation building
559 m
Zeughausbrunnen
463 m
Franziskusbrunnen
571 m
Fideikommisshaus of Segesser
518 m
Pfyffer's scholarship house
572 m
Museggmagazin
506 m
Residential and commercial building Burgertor
540 m
Orphanage (Nature Museum)
373 m
Department of Finance (former library)
573 m
Reusswehr (Mühlesporne, Nadelwehr)
459 mReviews
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