7 Things to Do in Lugano 2025

9 Highlights in Lugano

• Lake Lugano covers an area of almost 50 km². It was formed after the Ice Age at a point where two glaciers met.
• Well-known panoramic mountains in the immediate vicinity of Lake Lugano are Monte Brè (925 m a.s.l.) in the east, Monte Generoso (1701 m a.s.l.) in the southeast of the lake and Monte San Salvatore (912 m a.s.l.) in the west of Lugano.
• The UNESCO World Heritage Site Monte San Giorgio (1097 m a.s.l.) is enclosed by two arms of Lake Lugano. Marine fossils from the Middle Triassic are found here.
• The church of Santa Maria degli Angioli is not only worth seeing, but reveals a wonderful secret to you inside the church.
• Scuba diving in Lake Lugano is a highlight you will love. With the right diving school by your side, you can discover the underwater world of Lugano.
• Let yourself be inspired by art in combination with a unique natural landscape through an art hike on Monte Brè.
• Feast like kings at the Seegarten Lido Lugano Hotel and Restaurant. With a breathtaking view of the lake from the sun terrace and an aperitivo rosato, you can really enjoy your vacation!
• The poet Hermann Hesse was connected to Lugano in a special way. The Hermann Hesse Museum is located in Montagnola.
• Lugano's cityscape and the houses and buildings are characterized by the Renaissance. It is worth taking a closer look at the ornate facades.

Lugano has a Mediterranean, Italian flair, which is conveyed by the palm trees in combination with mountain peaks. From these you will gain an unforgettable view of Lake Lugano. The largest city in Ticino is located at the northern point of Lake Lugano. In Lugano you can combine your city trip with a special experience of nature and especially art. If you want to be inspired by this combination, Lugano is the right place for you.

Sights in Lugano

Lugano is strongly characterized by Lake Lugano and the promenades near the shore. Parks such as the Parco Civico attract visitors for the lush southern vegetation alone. Several museums and ecclesiastical buildings are also very attractive.

Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli

When you pass the southern entrance of Lugano at Piazza de Luini, you come to the church of Santa Maria degli Angioli. For a long time the church was part of a Franciscan monastery founded in 1490

At first sight, the church looks rather inconspicuous from the outside. However, the interior of the church hides a secret that will be revealed to you when you enter it. The wall of the central nave shows an impressive, imposing fresco depicting the Passion and Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is the most famous Renaissance fresco in Switzerland. Bernhardino Luini created it in 1529.

Old Town Lugano and Lakefront

Get to know Lugano's old town on a walking tour of the city center. The city tour starts at the impressive town hall in Piazza della Riforma. This is the center of the city. Art fans will get their money's worth here. Because they can immerse themselves in the neo-Renaissance style epoch through the specially designed house facades.

If you like it more quiet, you have the possibility to let your soul dangle in the Parco Civico directly at the lakeside. The park is located in the northeast and presents itself with the special kinds of flowers, pretty fountains and the famous magnolia trees. The Villa Ciani in the middle of the park is also a venue for various art presentations.

Museums in Lugano

Lugano has very diverse museums. In addition to several cultural museums, there is also a customs museum and a natural history museum.

MASI Lugano MASI is the abbreviation for Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana and is located on Via Canova at Palazzo Reali. A place of art and cultural, European connection between German and Italian Switzerland and the southern and northern points of the Alps. Latin and Germanic cultural influences find their center here

At MASI you can be inspired by different contemporary exhibitions and collections directly supported by the Federal Office of Culture.

If you are an art lover, we also recommend the other museums:

LAC Cultural Center (Lugano Arte e Cultura) The LAC is connected to the MASI Lugano and is its second location. It was completed in 2015 and also allows the display of contemporary art on 2500 square meters. The museum is located directly on the lake road and thus close to the waterfront.

Little art walk at Monte Brè Here you have the opportunity to experience art in a completely different way! The association Pasquale Gilardi and Visarte invite you to a little art walk. It leads through the village (at) Monte Brè. Along the way, small art treasures are waiting to be discovered by you.

More museums:

• EGO Gallery
• Villa Ciani
• Swiss Customs Museum
• Museo Mario Bernasconi
• MUSEC Cultural Museum
• Erich Lindenberg Art Foundation
• Cantonal Museum of Natural History
• Hermann Hesse Museum in Montagnola

More Attractions

• The Giardino Belvedere is the green heart of Lugano. It treats you to breathtaking views of Lake Lugano and the mountains.

• The Capuchin Monastery of Santa Maria del Bigorio is located north of Lugano. This sacred place houses a museum and a library within its holy walls.

• The Cattedrale S. Lorenzo has been a cathedral since 1888. This medieval church was already a parish church in the year 818.

Excursion Destinations from Lugano

The Mediterranean vibe of Lugano can be felt not only in the city but also throughout the entire holiday region around the Lake Lugano. You’ll find delicious food and picturesque mountain villages near the Monte Bré and Monte San Salvatore. That’s what makes the region particularly attractive to many visitors.

More Attractions

• The Giardino Belvedere is the green heart of Lugano. It treats visitors to a stunning view of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains.

• The Capuchin Monastery Santa Maria del Bigorio is located north of Lugano. This sacred site features a museum and a library within its holy halls.

• The Cattedrale S. Lorenzo has been a cathedral since 1888. The medieval church itself served as a parish church as far back as 818.

Day Trip Destinations from Lugano

The Mediterranean atmosphere of Lugano is felt not just in the city but also throughout the holiday region around Lake Lugano. You'll find great food and charming mountain villages near Monte Bré and Monte San Salvatore, making the region especially attractive to many visitors.

A day trip to Lake Maggiore and the Verzascatal is an ideal combination. It's easy to fit in if you spend several days in Lugano.

Lake Lugano

At the southern tip of Ticino, Lake Lugano connects Switzerland and Italy through the Alpine ridge. Nature lovers and sunbathers can fully enjoy the mild climate here. You can explore the surrounding mountain landscape using two cable cars. This includes the UNESCO World Heritage site at Monte San Giorgio.

For a hassle-free camping stay at Lake Lugano, you have the option to rent all the camping gear you need. Everything will be delivered to your preferred camping spot.

If you'd rather experience the region from the water, we recommend a boat trip on Lake Lugano. You'll discover some of the most beautiful spots, such as the picturesque village of Morcote, which lies right by the lake. It sounds and feels paradisiacal and is part of the municipality of Paradiso!

Swissminiatur

The only miniature park in Switzerland is also part of the municipality of Paradiso and is located in Melide. Here, you can enjoy an aerial view in the open air. The park stretches across 14,000 square meters, featuring miniature cable cars and famous buildings from Switzerland, surrounded by a diverse array of flowers and plants. The park is open to anyone interested from March to October each year.

Monte Brè

The funicular railroad has a long tradition since 1908. On the ride from Lugano to Monte Bré, you will be rewarded already on the ascent. You will get an impressive view over the lake to the Westwallian Alps.

In the village of Brè, at 933 meters above sea level, an artistic theme trail invites you to discover various artistic works and the nature around them. An absolute must to visit are the Schmid Museum and the frescoes by Joseph Birò in the Chiesa di San Fedele.

Monte San Giorgio as UNESCO World Heritage Site

Monte San Giorgio (1097 m above sea level) is a mountain between the southern flanks of Lake Lugano. Fossils have been found on it in large numbers. They led to the inclusion of Monte San Giorgio in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage

The Fossil Museum of Monte San Giorgio is located in Meride and was rebuilt by the famous Ticino architect Mario Botta. It shows mainly finds of dinosaurs, fish and plants.

Monte San Salvatore

The summit of Monte San Salvatore is at 912 meters above sea level. You can reach the top on foot by hiking up from Ciona or Pazzallo. If you like it more comfortable, take the funicular At the top of the mountain there is a congress center with the Vetta restaurant. From the spacious sun terrace you have a breathtaking view over the lake and mountain panorama.

Swiss Activities Tips Lugano

The view from Parco Ciani over the lake

You’ll find the perfect photo backdrop at the playful Renaissance garden gate overlooking the lake in Parco Ciani. It offers a magical view of the lake, especially at sunset.

Delicious gelateria at the Piazza

The tastiest ice cream in Lugano can be found at Vanini dolce e caffe directly at Piazza della Riforma. A special recommendation: the homemade pistachio ice cream.

Viewpoint at Morcote

On a small rock ledge at Morcote right behind the Church of Santa Maria del Sasso, you can settle on a swing. From here, you have a wonderful view of the lake and mountain panorama.

Chocolate craft and more

Handmade pralines have been produced and sold based on ancient recipes since 1921 at Confiserie Giglia. The praline artists in Via Antonio Ciseri call themselves craftsmen of taste.

Activities and Experiences in Lugano

Between the lake and the vast mountain landscape, you can also get moving and be active. Water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding, along with mountain biking, trekking, and mini fun runs, are popular and have many fans in the area.

Escape Games in Lugano not only let you have fun playing but also help you get to know the city better.

The most popular outdoor activities in Lugano include:

• Surfing
• Sailing
• Mountain biking
• Scuba diving
• Paragliding in tandem

Surfing in Lugano

For all beginners and advanced surfers, visiting one of the many boat rentals in Lugano is worth it. You’ll also find more water sports schools in Lugano Paradiso or Agno that offer wakeboarding. Beware: Most boat rentals are only open on specific days and/or only on weekends. It’s a good idea to check in advance so you don’t end up standing in front of a closed boat rental.

• Equipment available upon request
• Boat rental with or without a license
• Only open on certain days! Check in advance!

Sailing in Lugano

Sailing is an adventure in itself. If you're up for a little water adventure and have some stamina, you can sign up at various sailing schools around the lake. They will teach you the technique of sailing. If you already have a sailing license, you can charter a sailboat. Plenty of options can be found at the Yacht Club del Mar in Sonvico or at the Scuola Nautica in Figino.

• For beginners and advanced.
• Sailing schools offer a completion certificate upon passing the exam.
• Sailing trips can also be done with a guide, you can inquire on-site.

Mountain Biking

Exploring the region on land brings you close to nature. Numerous bike routes are marked around the lake and on the mountain heights. Here, you can discover the landscape around the lake up close.

• Routes with a total distance of 415 km await you.
• Free MTB map available for download online.
• Many accommodations for bikers are offered along the routes.

Scuba Diving

Diving in Lake Lugano is possible at various spots. Different providers and diving schools on-site will show you exactly what to pay attention to during your dive. They will take you to selected dive sites where you can explore the underwater world of Ticino.

Events in Lugano

Classical music concerts and art exhibitions in impressive galleries are very popular in Lugano. But outdoor fans also get their money's worth with a city tour through the idyllic atmosphere of Lugano City. Each event impresses with its own charm, making the diversity of the Lugano culture particularly palpable.

• Regular events until August Classical Music in a Dream Setting: The sacred concerts in the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli. Free events
• January to October Unexpected Classic Tour: Starting at Piazza Riforma, actors will take you on a city tour that is staged and at the same time takes place at real locations. Free tour on request
• April to October Ticino Mountain Running Cup: This is a series of mountain runs in various parts of the Canton of Ticino.
• Traversata del Lago di Lugano between Caprino and Lido di Lugano.
• May BikeEmotions four days of racing and various activities around the Expo Village

Getting to Lugano

Lugano, with more than 63,000 residents, is a significant city in Ticino and serves as an economic hub. The city is located at an altitude of 275 meters and can be reached by various means of transport. If everything goes smoothly, traveling by public transport can even be quicker than by car.

by car

If you’re familiar with Italian Switzerland, you’ve probably heard of the main traffic artery between Northern and Southern Europe: the A2 motorway. This highway takes you directly to Lugano Nord or Süd.

You can reach Lugano Nord from Zurich in about 2.5 hours by car. You’ll take the A2 and then go through the St. Gotthard base tunnel. Lugano Süd can be reached from Milan via the A9 towards Como-San Gottardo, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours, assuming no traffic jams.

Don’t forget: Make sure to get a motorway vignette (40 CHF) in advance so you can drive on toll roads.

by public transport

Lugano has a train connection with the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). The city can be accessed by all IC and EC trains along the Gotthard route, which connects Zurich and Milan. Additionally, Lugano is reachable via bus. During the warmer months, a post bus line connects with the Bernina Express from Tirano.

Hotels in Lugano

If you’re looking for accommodation in Lugano, you have plenty of options. There are numerous places to stay that cater to every need! From budget-friendly to high-end accommodations, you’ll find something for everyone. Mostly, small hotels with a unique charm invite you to enjoy their well-maintained facilities!

The View Lugano

For those who appreciate luxury, The View Lugano Hotel, boasting five stars, is the perfect choice. The hotel offers exclusive and high-class overnight accommodations. Dreamy suites and a private spa with stunning views over Lake Lugano invite you to relax and unwind. Established in 1997, the hotel also provides a bike and e-car rental service. Location: On the Luganer Paradiso hill.

High-end class

Hotel Admiral Lugano

We recommend Hotel Admiral Lugano to anyone seeking a good four-star hotel with a modern ambiance. The hotel also features two large swimming pools. In this wellness oasis, you can let your soul unwind after exploring Lugano. Location: Close to the lakeshore in the Paradiso district.

Medium class

Youth Hostel Lugano

If you’re looking for a good place to stay on a budget, the Youth Hostel Lugano offers affordable overnight options starting from 41 CHF, depending on room size. You can choose between single or dormitory rooms, whether you're alone, with friends, or family. Breakfast and a small pool are also available. Location: On Via Cantonale in Lugano-Savosa.

Basic class

Restaurants in Lugano

In numerous localities you can expect good food in a Mediterranean ambience and a gentle breeze of sea air. With the selection of different restaurants and localities there is always something for the big and small appetite.

Lake Garden Lugano

The Seegarten restaurant is part of the Lido Seegarten hotel in Lugano and is located directly on the lake. The wonderful facade of the hotel, the sun terrace and the pool make vacation hearts beat faster. The house celebrated its centenary in 2020. The house has several restaurants and from chicken, pasta to delicious meat dishes - the Seegarten Hotel offers a wide range of culinary delights.

Lifted

Ristorante della Torre

With its regional and traditional cuisine, Ristorante della Torre in Morcote is a real recommendation. In addition, fresh seasonal delicacies are served regularly. The restaurant is in the middle price range and is family-run. The wonderful location directly on the lake alone makes it worth an aperitivo visit!

Middle price range

Grotto Cavicc

At the Grotto Cavicc, Hermann Hesse already enjoyed delicious regional delicacies from Lombardy and Ticino. The cuisine is traditionally oriented and recommended by locals. In the garden of the restaurant you can sit on wooden benches and enjoy the nature without further ado and free of charge

Simple to medium price range

The flair of Lake Lugano with its hotels, restaurants and cultural attractions is guaranteed to be felt by you as soon as you arrive. We wish you an unforgettable vacation experience in beautiful Lugano!

Title photo

• Lugano (Photo: Milo Zanecchia My Switzerland)