Willisau with its charming old town

Anyone strolling through the old town of Willisau will immediately sense its special atmosphere: medieval buildings and lovingly restored houses line the main street, inviting visitors to linger. The town gates mark the entrance to another era, while the town hall, parish church, and characteristic seven-sided fountains tell tales of the past.

Archaeology cellar

Parts of the city wall and a medieval cellar floor can be seen in the archaeology cellar. Glass floors and modern media installations bring history to life and make it tangible.

Opening hours
Summer: 08.00–20.00 hours
Winter: 08.00–18.00 hours

City gates

The Upper Gate and Lower Gate mark the entrances to the old town. They are part of the historic fortifications and make the tour particularly impressive.

Heptagonal fountains

The characteristic fountains adorn the main street and serve as an impressive reminder of the importance of water supply in earlier times. These have always been of great significance and were considered social meeting places where people could gather.

Müligass

The town mill, after which the alley is named, was already in operation when the town was founded. The lowest stone layers of the west facade date back to around 1300.

Müligass, with its well-preserved wooden houses, is one of the oldest parts of the old town. Many buildings date back to the 16th century, some even with medieval foundations. Fortunately, they were spared from the last town fire in 1704.

Willisau Town Hall

Located in the middle of Hauptgasse, the baroque town hall dominates the old town. It was rebuilt after the great fire of 1704 and once served as a department store and granary.

Parish Church of St. Peter and Paul

Located right on the edge of the old town, this Baroque church boasts a magnificent interior and an impressive organ.Baroque church has a sumptuous interior and an impressive organ.

The best way to discover Willisau's old town is on a guided tour. Experienced guides will take you on a journey through time, winding your way through narrow streets, past gates, fountains, and historic buildings. You'll hear fascinating stories about town fires, life in the Middle Ages, and the significance of the Willisauer Ringli.

Public city tours

A tour of the main street and historic alleys will give you an overview of the city's history, architecture, and most important sights. Perfect for anyone visiting Willisau for the first time.

From May to October, every first Sunday afternoon of the month and every Sunday during the summer holidays from 14.00 to 16.00 hours.

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Public storytelling tours

Delve deeper into the city's culture and let yourself be transported into the world of stories and legends. At the end of these sometimes astonishing, sometimes spine-chilling tales, you will be treated to a warming punch or mulled wine.

8/ 15 / 22 / 29 November 2025, advance registration is required.

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Public city tours for children

A very special experience awaits children aged 6 and over during the fall break. The special children's tours take little detectives back to the Middle Ages, where they can slip into an important role and solve exciting puzzles.

1/ 8 October 2025, advance registration is required.

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Adventure & group tours

Ideal for clubs, school classes, or companies: interactive tours with special themes, such as climbing church towers, hearing stories from regulars at local pubs, or visiting regional businesses such as the Willisauer Ringli bakery. This makes a visit to Willisau a unique experience.

to the offer

The old town of Willisau is not only ideal for strolling around, but also for enjoying a bite to eat. Whether you fancy traditional Swiss cuisine, Italian specialties, or sweet temptations, the restaurants and cafés in the old town offer something for every taste. Here you will find a selection of popular places to eat.

Gasthof zum Mohren

A traditional restaurant serving Swiss and Mediterranean specialties.

Café Amrein Chocolatier

A paradise for those with a sweet tooth: coffee, homemade pralines, and the famous Willisauer Ringli provide sweet moments of indulgence.

Il Castello

Italian flair in the heart of Willisau – with pizza, homemade pasta, and Mediterranean classics.

Restaurant Sternen

Centrally located, the Sternen is a popular meeting place, offering home-style cooking in a relaxed atmosphere.

Restaurant Schlossfeld

Cozy ambiance with varied cuisine – from salads and wellness dishes to classic menus. Ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner.

China Garden Willisau

Asian specialties and takeaway options. Perfect for anyone craving something exotic.

My Weibel bakery

This well-kept bakery and pastry shop with café is ideally located between the train station and Willisau's old town and is open every day.

Strolling through Willisau's old town is an experience in itself: small boutiques, traditional bakeries, and charming specialty shops are hidden among historic facades. Instead of mass-produced goods, you'll find regional products, handmade souvenirs, and the famous Willisauer Ringli – perfect for taking home special memories.

Boutiques & specialist shops

Charming shops selling fashion, accessories, and handicrafts await you in the main street and side streets. Perfect for anyone looking for unique items.

Traditional bakeries

Here you can get the famous Willisauer Ringli, fresh from the bakery. Chocolate, pralines, and other sweet delicacies also tempt you.

Regional products & souvenirs

From cheese and honey to handmade souvenirs – you will find authentic gifts from the region in the shops in the old town.

Market dates 2025 

Several times a year, the streets are transformed into a colorful marketplace with regional products, flowers, and culinary specialties. A highlight for anyone who loves something special.

18 October (Kilbimarkt)
20 October (Kilbimarkt with machinery market)
27 November (Katharinenmarkt with machinery market)
5–7 December (Christkindli-Märt)

Discover Willisau through play or cuisine:

• For families on the Detective Trail: at the end of the route, a prize awaits all detectives in the treasure chest!
• For crime fiction fans on the Crime Trail: take on the role of investigator and follow the trail of gold and whiskey.
• For connoisseurs on the FoodTrail: enjoy a delightful scavenger hunt that leads out into the countryside.
• For adults on the Kafi Luz Tour: learn all about the history and preparation of Kafi Luz on an enjoyable hike.