Richard Wagner Museum

The Basics

Tribschen Manor was Wagner’s home between 1866 and 1872, but the building itself dates from the 15th century. It’s said that Wagner’s friends Franz Liszt, Friedrich Nietzsche, Gottfried Semper, and King Ludwig II of Bavaria spent time here. Most visitors visit for a couple of hours while staying in Lucerne, but it’s also possible to stop here on a day trip from Zurich or other, more distant cities.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The museum shows both permanent and rotating exhibits.

• There is a kids’ playground located near the museum, by the shores of the lake.

• In summer, an on-site cafe sells drinks and snacks.

• The museum sometimes hosts concerts, lectures, and other events.

How to Get There

You can reach the museum on foot from central Lucerne by taking a walking trail along the lakeshore; the walk takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take buses number 6, 7, or 8 to Wartegg from the main train station in Lucerne.

When to Get There

The museum is open April 1–November 30, Tuesday–Sunday. It closes for a two-hour lunch break beginning at noon, so it’s best to time your visit for the morning or later in the afternoon.

Visit Meggenhorn Castle

After learning about Wagner’s working methods, head to the Meggenhorn Castle (Schloss Meggenhorn). Built in the late-19th century, the castle sits on a hill above the lake and looks like it sprang from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through the castle’s rooms to see how the local elite used to live, then spend some time in the surrounding gardens.