Eating at sit-down restaurants in Switzerland can quickly deplete your travel budget. If you are looking for affordable family meals in Lucerne, the best strategy is to head to the local supermarkets. Both Migros and Coop offer family-friendly food at prices lower than the standard restaurant. Here is how to navigate the two best options in Lucerne’s Old Town.
Migros (Near Schweizerhof)
Located directly next to the Hotel Schweizerhof, this Migros is ideal for families exploring the lakeside promenade. It serves as an efficient stop for a quick and easy lunch. The selection includes reliable kid favorites such as pizza, chicken nuggets, and fries, alongside a healthier variety of pre-made salads, cold drinks, and fresh pastries. Our children particularly enjoy the pretzels and chocolate bread. For a fast checkout, you can use the self-service counters. While there is indoor seating available, we recommend taking your meal to go; simply walk across the street to the promenade and enjoy your lunch on a bench with a view of Lake Lucerne and the Alps.
Coop City Luzern (Mühlenplatz)
Coop City is more than just a grocery store; it is a large, multi-story department store located in Mühlenplatz, just steps away from the historic Mill Bridge (Spreuerbrücke). This location offers several different ways to save:
- Shopping: The ground floor features a souvenir section with reasonably priced Swiss gifts near the entrance.
- Grocery Store: One floor down, you will find a supermarket where you can stock up on sandwiches, snacks, and drinks for a picnic. The benches near the Mill Bridge offer a perfect scenic spot to eat.
- The Restaurant: On the top floor, there is a self-service restaurant serving traditional Swiss fare, such as schnitzel and sausages.
- Family Perks: The JaMaDu kids’ menu is an excellent deal at 6.95 CHF. It includes a meal, a juice, and a small gift like a toy or game for children up to age nine. The restaurant is highly accommodating, providing high chairs, a small play area, and paid restrooms (coins or card) that issue a voucher redeemable for a discount on your store purchase.
Why These Options Work for Family Travel
Both Migros and Coop are strategically located near Lucerne’s major attractions, making them easy to integrate into a walking tour. Whether you prefer a hot sit-down meal or a picnic by the lake, these supermarkets are the “secret weapon” for visiting Switzerland on a budget.
You can find Migros and Coop restaurants in almost every major Swiss city. They remain the most consistent way to find cheap eats in Switzerland while ensuring children have plenty of familiar options.
For more family-friendly dining recommendations in Lucerne, click here for more information.