Staying in Kriens for Lucerne and Pilatus
The useful distinction in Kriens is between the town center and the gondola base. They are separate points, with an uphill walk between them. Check whether your accommodation is closer to the main bus corridor or the mountain approach, then plan your luggage journey and sightseeing around that location. A Kriens address does not necessarily mean a short walk to the gondola.
At a glance
- Best for
- Budget, Pilatus
- At night
- Quiet
- Getting around
- Bus to the center in 10 to 15 min
- Price level
- €
A town on the south-west edge of Lucerne, a bus ride from the center and the foot of the Pilatus cable car.
Good for
- A lower price within a short bus ride
- Going up Pilatus without a transfer
- Longer stays and driving
Think twice if
- You want to walk to dinner in the old town
- You are planning a late night in town
- You are staying only one or two nights
What is near Kriens
Pilatus gondola base
From Kriens, Zentrum Pilatus, allow about 15 minutes uphill on foot, following the signed route toward the valley station.
Museum im Bellpark
About 5 minutes on foot from Kriens, Zentrum Pilatus, this museum offers an indoor stop. Check its exhibition and opening schedule.
Bellpark
Walk about 5 minutes from the central bus stop to the park around the museum for a pause before continuing uphill.
Eating in Kriens
Central Kriens has everyday restaurants, bakeries and shops along and around the main road. Buy picnic supplies before starting toward the gondola if you want flexibility on the mountain. Check dinner hours locally, particularly if you expect to return after a full day outdoors.
Getting around from Kriens
Bus line 1 links Luzern Bahnhof with Kriens, Zentrum Pilatus. From that stop, follow signs uphill to the gondola base. Check the current bus timetable and mountain operating information separately, because reaching Kriens does not guarantee that the mountain lifts are running.
Hotels in Kriens
Search the area on the booking sites, where the prices are. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Other areas of Lucerne
Staying in Kriens for Lucerne and Pilatus
Does the city bus stop at the gondola entrance?
The usual approach from Kriens, Zentrum Pilatus includes an uphill walk of about 15 minutes. Allow extra time with children or luggage.
Can I start the cogwheel railway in Kriens?
No. The cogwheel railway starts at Alpnachstad. Kriens is the approach for the gondola and cable car route via Fräkmüntegg.
What should I check before leaving for Pilatus?
Check the summit webcam, weather and operating status on the official Pilatus site. Wind or maintenance can affect the mountain transport independently of city buses.