Switzerland is well known for its excellent rail system, hearty enough to deliver you to mountain tops and punctual enough to set your watch by. Of course the Swiss transportation system goes far beyond trains to encompass boats, buses, gondolas, and cog rail, all synched to connect you to where you want to go.
The Swiss are innovators who have mastered transit, so Luzern’s popular Swiss Museum of Transportation seems like a natural attraction. An easy rail trip from the Swiss Heartland UnTour, this massive museum is a must for train enthusiasts and other transportation geeks. The (grand)kids will love it too.
Exhibits about Switzerland’s groundbreaking contributions to transportation are compelling. And beyond that, the museum has come to house notable vehicles from all over the world, all displayed in massive spaces and with an eye for design.
The aviation hall is impressive, with an extensive collection of historic planes and other aircraft. Along with the airplanes, you’ll find some interactive fun, like the Swiss photo opp up top.
Ever wonder about airlifts and medical rescues up in the Alpine peaks? Check out the collection of helicopters.
There are so many great photo opps in this museum, including this made-for-Instagram structure that houses an extensive collection of vintage cars. Motorheads should head inside to see the full catalog of roadsters.
A huge hangar holds vintage rail equipment. Some of the train cars are open for a walkthrough, allowing guests glimpses into the evolution of the country’s magnificent rail system. Train junkies will not want to miss this!
The exhibit on space exploration is a favorite, with its collection of space vehicles and equipment. A special capsule simulates weightlessness so guests can experience zero gravity.
Try your hand (or more accurately your feet) at navigating the Alps from above. The museum is popular with kids and families, with lots of interactive exhibits that let children and their adults learn about navigation.
The Lindt Swiss Chocolate Adventure is another feature. Though it is not a transportation exhibit and it verges on corny, this attraction appeals to the families and kids that the museum draws. This little ride takes visitors through a presentation on how Switzerland’s most famous brand of chocolate is made. Of course a chocolate tasting follows, and the gift shop is deliciously appealing.
The Transportation Museum is worth a day trip for our guests in the Swiss Oberland and Heartland UnTours. And the Swiss Travel Pass (included with every UnTour) offers guests a 50% reduction on admission. It’s a must for rail and car geeks!