The 20 best outdoor activities in Ticino region

Ticino is largely south of the Alps. There are palm trees on the beaches and Italian is spoken almost everywhere. This region is known for its Mediterranean climate and Italian flair. In addition to the tourist centers such as Lake Maggiore, there are still largely unspoiled mountains, valleys and hamlets. North of Mendrisio there is Foxtown, a shopping center that offers 250 brands in 160 stores and is open daily

The two rivers Maggia and Verzasca are popular destinations in the region and invite visitors to hike, rock jump, swim and lounge

The top destinations include first and foremost the towns and cities of Ascona, Bellinzona, Locarno and Lugano

Ascona is located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore and is known for its Mediterranean beach promenades, street cafes and mild climate. The old town, with a 16th-century columned basilica, branches directly to the car-free lakeside promenade. Above Ascona, Monte Verità was long home to a lateral thinkers' colony; today a museum stands on the site.

Bellinzona, the capital of Ticino, is associated above all with its strong fortifications. It consists of three of the best preserved medieval castles in Switzerland and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has a key position and connects the north with Italy, which lies to the south. From here you also have access to the Alpine passes San Bernardino, Gotthard and Lukmanier

Locarno is also located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore. It can be reached from Ascona by car or by bus in a few minutes. The Piazza Grande is world famous and is connected to the old town by several narrow streets. The Castello Visconteo, dating from the 12th century, is only partially preserved. Better known is the sanctuary Madonna del Sasso above the city. It is said to go back to an apparition of the Virgin Mary and has become Locarno's landmark. Several art collections can be found in the city in old magnificent pallazi.

Lugano on Lake Lugano is the largest city in Ticino and an important financial center in Switzerland. The local mountains are Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. From the top you have a view of the entire lake landscape all the way to Italy. The city is known for its high level of art and architecture. The art museum Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana MASI shows paintings by Renoir, Klee and other famous painters.

The lesser known Mendrisiotto stretches as a narrow tip south to the Italian border. Here, extended hikes or bike excursions through the vast and hilly terrain on both sides of the transit freeway are popular.