Hotel des Balances

This classic European hotel offers a memorable experience, distinguished by its historic charm and prime riverfront location, providing guests with breathtaking views of the city's iconic landmarks. It is an ideal choice for sightseers eager to explore the old town, couples seeking a romantic getaway with picturesque backdrops, and families looking for comfortable accommodations in a central area. Business travelers also find the hotel well-suited for their needs, appreciating the professional environment and convenient access. Guests consistently praise the hotel's exceptional service and the high quality of its dining options. To maximize your stay, consider booking a room with a river view, especially one with a balcony, and be sure to indulge in a meal at the acclaimed on-site restaurant.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently appreciate the well-appointed facilities and thoughtful amenities provided. The hotel offers reliable Wi-Fi throughout, ensuring guests stay connected. Rooms are equipped with convenient Nespresso machines and a variety of coffee choices, often restocked daily. Many guests highlight the impressive mini-bar selection and the generous complimentary gifts, such as daily chocolates, welcome drinks, and high-quality toiletries. The presence of ice machines and water dispensers on each floor is a valued convenience. The hotel's lounge and bar are frequently praised for their fantastic service, pleasant atmosphere, and often feature live piano accompaniment, creating an inviting space for relaxation. While most rooms are comfortable, some guests noted that the air conditioning might not cool to American preferences, and a few experienced issues with it. Valet parking is available, with cars promptly delivered upon request, simplifying arrival and departure. The hotel also maintains a pet-friendly policy, offering amenities for furry companions.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel's commitment to cleanliness, describing rooms and common areas as immaculate and spotless. The comfortable beds and high-quality linens ensure a restful night's sleep for most visitors. Rooms are generally described as beautifully decorated and well-appointed, blending old-world charm with modern conveniences. While many guests found their rooms to be spacious, some noted that certain room types, particularly those without balconies, could feel a bit small. In-room amenities like Nespresso machines, quality toiletries, and a desk are frequently appreciated. Rooms with balcony views are highly sought after, offering stunning vistas. Noise levels are generally low, contributing to a peaceful stay, though a few guests mentioned occasional external noise from construction or early morning city activities. The bathrooms are well-designed, though some guests noted a high step into the shower or the absence of modern rain showerheads, and a few found the towels to be thin.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experiences consistently receive high praise from guests. The breakfast buffet is described as excellent and superb, offering a rich variety of fresh options, including fresh juices, bread, and organic choices, with many considering it the best breakfast they experienced. While some found the breakfast to be on the expensive side, the quality and selection were widely appreciated. The main restaurant is frequently highlighted as a culinary gem, offering gourmet and high-quality dishes, with many guests calling it the best meal of their trip. Its status as a Michelin-guide restaurant is often noted, and guests commend the food's presentation and deliciousness. The bar is also a popular spot, known for its lively atmosphere, excellent service, and a fantastic selection of drinks, making it an ideal place for cocktails or a nightcap.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an exceptional and central location, situated directly on the river in the heart of Lucerne's old town. This prime position places guests within easy walking distance of numerous popular attractions, including the Chapel Bridge, the Jesuit Church, and a wide array of shops and restaurants. The train station is also conveniently located just a short walk away, providing excellent accessibility for arrivals, departures, and day trips. Guests consistently rave about the stunning river views and mountain panoramas available from many rooms and the restaurant terrace, which greatly enhance the overall experience. While the hotel's location in a pedestrian-heavy area contributes to its charm, guests arriving by car should be aware that navigating the cobblestone streets to reach the entrance can be tricky, though valet parking services are available to assist.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives glowing reviews for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the warm welcome received upon arrival, the efficiency of the check-in process, and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond to accommodate requests. From the front desk assisting with tour bookings and local recommendations to the attentive housekeeping ensuring rooms are spotless, the service is widely praised. The valet service is also noted for its efficiency and courteousness. While the vast majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests experienced isolated instances of less attentive service from some restaurant staff or felt that specific requests, such as acknowledging special occasions or providing complimentary water, were not consistently met. Despite these minor points, the overall consensus is that the staff's dedication significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
This charming hotel, housed in a beautiful historic building, offers a unique blend of old-world elegance and modern comfort, making it a memorable destination for many. Guests appreciate the thoughtful complimentary touches that enhance their stay, such as daily chocolates left in the rooms and a personalized welcome card. The hotel is also notably pet-friendly, providing amenities for guests traveling with their dogs. Many guests are repeat visitors, a testament to the consistently high quality of service and the inviting atmosphere. While the hotel provides excellent amenities within the rooms, some guests noted the absence of a dedicated, comfortable sitting lounge area for longer stays, where one might relax with a book or coffee outside of their room or the main bar. The presence of ice machines and water dispensers on each floor adds a practical convenience for all guests.