Lucerne is a magnet for visitors to Switzerland seeking to experience all aspects of the country in one place. The picture-perfect old town with its world-famous medieval towers and bridges has justifiably earned Lucerne the nickname ‘city of lights’. Its cultural attractions and wide choice of shops also inspire guests to take their time discovering the city, which stands on Lake Lucerne encircled by beautiful alpine peaks (including the Pilatus, Titlis and Rigi mountains). Another enduring symbol is the Rütli meadow, site of the legendary Rütlischwur oath that established the Old Swiss Confederacy here in the heart of Switzerland in 1291. Lucerne is also the ideal base from which to make excursions to Zurich, Bern or Basel.