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About this place
Lake Zug (Zugersee) at the town of Zug sits in central Switzerland, between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zurich. The lake covers roughly 38 km², runs about 14 km from end to end and reaches a depth of 198 m. Three cantons share its shores: Zug, Schwyz and Lucerne.
What is the lake like?
The long basin stretches from Arth in the south to the Cham–Zug bay in the north. A wooded peninsula called Chiemen splits it in two. The northern Untersee is broad and shallow, while the southern Obersee is deeper and framed by hills. Most of the shoreline belongs to canton Zug, the south to Schwyz, and a small share near Chiemen to Lucerne. The town of Zug lies on the northeast shore, with Arth at the far southern end.
What can you see here?
The lakeside promenade in Zug is the easiest place to start, a few minutes' walk from the old town. On clear days the mountains above the southern shore come into view, including the Rigi massif rising over Arth. The Lorze river flows through the north of the lake: it enters west of Zug and leaves again near Cham.
How do you get out on the water?
Boat trips run under Zugersee Schifffahrt. The flagship is the MS Zug, built in 2003, and the MS Rigi from 1992 is also in service. A round-the-lake cruise links the towns on all sides of the shore. In summer, shoreline walks, cycling and swimming at designated spots round out a visit.
How do you get there?
Zug is a rail hub on the Zurich–Lucerne line, so trains from both cities arrive without changes. The boat landing is close to the station, and you do not need a car to explore the centre and waterfront.
When should you visit?
Late spring, summer and early autumn are best, when boats run frequently and the weather is warm. Outside the season, services are thinner, so check the timetable before you travel.
FAQ
How big is Lake Zug?
About 38.4 km² in area and roughly 14 km long, with a maximum depth of 198 m and a mean depth of around 83 m.
Which cantons border the lake?
Zug, Schwyz and Lucerne. Canton Zug holds the largest share of the water.
Can you cruise around the lake?
Yes. Zugersee Schifffahrt operates a round-the-lake cruise as well as services between shore towns.
Is Zug a lake or a town?
Both. The name belongs to the cantonal capital and to the lake it sits on. This description covers the lake.
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