Altdorf looks beautiful, nestled in the valley between towering mountains, it’s only 2 miles from Lake Lucerne and with a hire car you can head down to the lake and take a boat trip to see the area from the water.
Another scenic drive is via the new road over the Klausen Pass and on to Glarus in the Glarus Alps. Visitors to Altdorf should look out for the signs of the tale of William Tell who had to shoot an arrow through an apple perched on his son’s head to save his life.
Altdorf Mini Guide
Tell me About Altdorf
Altdorf is the capital of the Swiss canton of Uri and is south of Lake Lucerne. The city’s name translates from German to ‘old village’. It is most famous for being the place where William Tell shot an apple from his son’s head.
How can I get There?
The nearest international airport is at Zurich, 65 km away. You can then catch a train or hire a car to get to Altdorf. Switzerland has an excellent rail service that connects to many towns and even extends to cities in Europe.
What can I see There?
Firstly, go and see the William Tell monument and frescoe in the market place. For a little culture visit the Haus fur Kunst which features the work of Swiss contemporary artists or go to the Historisches Museum to find out more about the town’s history. You can also visit the parish church or the capuchin convent that sits above the city.
What Else can I do?
Take a relaxing steamship trip on Lake Uri or go fishing there. Go up to Eggbergen Mountains and hike or ski, you have to take a cable car to get there. Local guides can be hired for mountain hikes or climbing trips.
I Have a few Days There…
Head out to Seedorf and see the Schloss A Pro Castle, built in 1556. Inside the castle you will also find a crystal museum. To find out more about the legendary William Tell go to Burglen his birthplace and visit the museum dedicated to him there.
Tastes of the City
Visit the tiny brewery in Altdorf where they make the city’s Stiar Biar or Bull’s Beer or try some local wines at Vineyard Schuler - they make red and white wines and also grappa. If herbal tea is more your thing, Urner Krauter Tee make all of their teas in the city with herbs collected locally. Of course, you have to buy some Swiss cheese, try Alp Cheese Uri from the village of Sittlisalp nearby.
Eat and Stay
The Hotel Restaurant Goldener Schlussel is in the old town in Altdorf, it has 18 rooms with free Wi-Fi. Eat at the award winning restaurant at the hotel, they specialise in gourmet Swiss cuisine.
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