Tucked away in the southernmost part of Switzerland, nestled between the serene waters of Lake Lugano and the dramatic peaks of the Swiss Alps, lies the picturesque city of Lugano. Lugano is a unique blend of Swiss and Italian culture and a pleasant Mediterranean climate. I really loved my time there and I think you will too!

Let’s dive right in and tell you more about it! Lugano is a city of contrasts, where the rugged Alpine terrain meets the gentle charm of the Italian lakes. As you wander through the city, you'll notice how effortlessly it blends Swiss efficiency with Italian flair. The official language is Italian, and the influence of the neighbouring Italian regions is evident in everything from the architecture to the cuisine.

Lugano is often referred to as the "Monte Carlo of Switzerland," and it's easy to see why. The city's natural beauty is its biggest draw, offering countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Lake Lugano itself is a paradise for water sports with options for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. If you prefer to stay on land, the lake's shores are also dotted with scenic hiking and biking trails.

📝 Things to do :

🛥️Boat Ride on Lake Lugano

⭐️Short Round-Trip Tours: These typically last 1-2 hours and cost around 25-30 CHF per adult.

⭐️Longer Round-Trip Tours: More extensive tours that cover multiple stops around the lake can cost between 35-50 CHF per adult.

For a unique perspective, take a boat ride on Lake Lugano. This will allow you to capture the city and surrounding mountains from the water, providing a different angle for your photos. The reflections of the mountains and buildings in the lake create stunning mirror-like images.

👟Explore the centre

The historic centre is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets, lined with pastel-coloured buildings and elegant piazzas. The scent of fresh espresso wafts through the air as locals relax in outdoor cafes, savouring the easy-going pace of life. Spend some time exploring Piazza della Riforma, the main square, which is surrounded by colourful facades and bustling cafes. As you wander, pop into local boutiques and shops. Visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, which dates back to the 9th century. Take a moment to admire its stunning Renaissance façade and the intricate frescoes inside.

🌿Stroll through Parco Ciani

(Free entry)

Take a peaceful stroll through Parco Ciani, Lugano’s most beautiful park. This lush, lakeside park is filled with towering trees, vibrant flower beds, and serene paths that offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the chance to walk along the shaded promenade, where the calm waters of the lake reflect the sky, creating a perfect backdrop for photography.

🎟️Funicular ride to Mount Brè

⭐️Ticket : 25 CHF return trip for adults.

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, Swiss Half Fare Card, or a Ticino Ticket, you can get discounts, often up to 50% off. Children, students, and groups may also be eligible for reduced fares.

For breathtaking views of Lugano and beyond, take the funicular up to Monte Brè, one of the most scenic spots in the region. The ride itself is an experience, as you ascend through lush greenery to the summit. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Lugano, the city, and the surrounding Alps. Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants on Monte Brè, where you can dine on local Ticinese specialties while soaking in the stunning vistas. Grotti, traditional mountain restaurants, offer dishes like risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto) and polenta with various toppings. Pair your meal with a glass of Merlot from the region, and take your time savouring both the food and the scenery.

🖼️ Visit the Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana (MASI)

⭐️Ticket: 15 CHF for adults

Reduced tickets are often available for students, seniors, and groups, typically ranging from 7 to 10 CHF. Children and young people under 16 may enter for free.

Delve into Lugano’s cultural side with a visit to the Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana (MASI). This museum houses an impressive collection of Swiss and Italian art, ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary works. It’s a great way to gain insight into the region’s rich artistic heritage and the cross-cultural influences that shape it.

🌅 Sunset at Monte San Salvatore

⭐️Ticket: 30 CHF adult. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, Swiss Half Fare Card, or a Ticino Ticket, you can often get a discount of up to 50%. For children, students, and groups, reduced fares are usually available.

For a spectacular end to your day, make your way to Monte San Salvatore. You can either hike up or take a funicular to the top. The summit offers an incredible vantage point to watch the sunset over Lugano. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted with hues of pink, orange, and purple, reflecting beautifully on the lake. Truly a dream!

☕️Grand Café al Porto- A historic café that has been serving locals and travellers since 1803. Here, you can enjoy a cappuccino with a fresh croissant while taking in views of Lake Lugano as the morning light dances on its surface.

☕️Caffè Federale- Stop here for an espresso or gelato. As you sip, take in the views of the sailboats gliding across the lake and the mountains in the distance.

🍽️ Dine at Osteria Calprino - This is a local favourite, offering a cosy atmosphere and a menu filled with regional specialties. Try the ossobuco, a slow-cooked veal dish, or rösti, a Swiss potato dish, both of which are sure to satisfy after a day of exploring.