A Weekend Trip to Lugano in Ticino: Sunshine, Chestnuts, and Swiss-Italian Charm
- Stefan Schwarzer
- Apr 16
- 6 min read
If you're looking for a warm and sunny escape that blends the best of Switzerland and Italy, Lugano is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Located in the southern canton of Ticino, this lakeside city offers a unique combination of relaxed Mediterranean flair, alpine landscapes, and Swiss hospitality.
Where is Lugano?
Lugano is situated in southern Switzerland, in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. It lies on the shores of Lake Lugano, nestled between two picturesque peaks: Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Thanks to its location south of the Alps, Lugano enjoys a milder climate than cities in the north and is often sunny even when the rest of Switzerland is covered in fog.
Why I love Lugano
What makes Lugano special for me is its weather, its food, and its character. Even in late autumn, it often feels like spring down here. The mix of Swiss efficiency with Italian energy gives the city a unique charm—it’s a bit more lively and spontaneous than the German-speaking parts of the country, yet still clean, safe, and well-organized.
The food is another reason to come. From polenta and local sausages to slow-cooked game dishes and roasted chestnuts, Ticino cuisine is hearty and delicious. There’s also a lot to do in and around Lugano, which makes it ideal for a weekend trip.
How to get to Lugano
By train
The train is the best way to reach Lugano. There are direct connections from Zurich, Lucerne, and Basel, and thanks to the Gotthard Base Tunnel, the journey is fast and scenic. Especially during summer or holiday weekends, taking the train helps you avoid traffic jams at the Gotthard tunnel.
By car
Driving is also an option, but it’s good to check traffic conditions at the Gotthard beforehand. An alternative route from Zurich is the San Bernardino Pass, which is less busy and just as scenic. If you do hit traffic, you can cross into Italy for some Sunday shopping—supermarkets there stay open while Swiss ones are closed.
Ticino Ticket
If you stay at one of Ticino’s 500+ partner accommodations for at least one night, you’ll receive the Ticino Ticket. This pass gives you free public transport throughout the canton and discounts on many funiculars, boats, and attractions. It’s a great value and makes getting around very easy.More info: ticino.ch/en/ticket
Where to stay in Lugano
We love staying at Hotel Colibrì, which sits high up on Monte Brè and offers panoramic views over the lake and city. It’s peaceful and full of charm. For something more local, we’ve also stayed in Airbnbs near Morcote, a quiet lakeside village not far from Lugano. Vernate, on the other hand, felt a bit too remote for a short weekend.
What to do in Lugano: Top activities for your weekend trip
Explore the old town and lake promenade
Start your weekend with a walk through Lugano’s historic center. The cobbled streets, lively piazzas, and Italian-style cafés give it a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. The lakeside promenade is also beautiful and perfect for an evening stroll.
Eat polenta at La Tinèra
La Tinèra is my favorite restaurant in the city. Hidden in the old town, it serves traditional Ticinese dishes like polenta with pork ribs or local sausage. It’s the kind of place where locals go, and the atmosphere is cozy and authentic.
Ride the cable car up Monte Brè
Monte Brè offers one of the best views over Lugano and Lake Lugano. Take the funicular to the top and enjoy a walk, a meal with a view, or just the peaceful surroundings. It’s a great place to catch a sunset or take some amazing photos.
Visit Parco Ciani
Parco Ciani is a lakeside park right next to the city center. With palm trees, fountains, and walking paths under old trees, it’s a perfect place to relax, have a picnic, or let the kids run around.
Discover Monte San Salvatore
Another popular viewpoint, Monte San Salvatore is just as impressive as Monte Brè. You can either hike up or take the funicular from Paradiso. At the top, you’ll find a small museum and walking trails, plus panoramic views stretching all the way to Italy.
Take the ferry to Gandria
A short boat ride from Lugano brings you to Gandria, a peaceful, car-free village on the lake. With its stone alleyways and lakeside terraces, it’s a beautiful place to explore or enjoy a long lunch by the water.
Visit the Chestnut Festival
If you're visiting in October, try to catch the annual chestnut festival in Lugano. The smell of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and there are food stalls, crafts, and live music in the old town. It’s a great way to experience local traditions.
Adventures at Monte Tamaro
Monte Tamaro is about 30 minutes from Lugano and packed with outdoor fun. There’s a zip line, a mountain coaster, and hiking trails with panoramic views. It's a great spot for families or anyone looking for something active and outdoorsy.
Hike the Gole della Breggia
The Gole della Breggia is a deep natural gorge with hiking trails that wind past waterfalls, cliffs, and geological rock layers. It’s both scenic and educational, with information panels explaining the area's ancient history.
Walk the ancient Olive Trail
The Sentiero dell’Olivo (Olive Trail) is a lakeside path that runs between Gandria and Castagnola. It’s quiet, scenic, and lined with old olive trees. You’ll get fantastic lake views along the way, and there are plenty of spots to stop and rest.
Great day trips from Lugano
If you’re spending more than a weekend in the region, there are some great day trips nearby:
Visit the Verzasca Valley
The Verzasca Valley is one of Ticino’s most stunning natural areas, known for its emerald-green river and the iconic stone bridge in Lavertezzo. You can swim in the crystal-clear (but chilly!) water, hike along scenic trails, or simply enjoy the views in one of Switzerland’s most photographed valleys.
Head to Ascona or Locarno on Lake Maggiore
Ascona and Locarno are charming lakeside towns just under an hour from Lugano. Locarno has a lively lakeside promenade and cable car to the Cardada viewpoint, while Ascona is quieter and known for its picturesque piazza and boutique shops. Take the train/bus to Locarno and walk along the lake to Ascona.
Cross the border to Como or Menaggio in Italy
Just a short drive or train ride from Lugano, Como and Menaggio offer a taste of Italy right across the border. Explore Como’s historic center and cathedral or enjoy lunch in Menaggio, a laid-back town with classic lakefront views and delicious Italian food.
Take the train to Milan
In just over an hour, the train takes you from Lugano to Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital. Spend the day shopping in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, visiting the iconic Duomo, or enjoying world-class museums and Italian cuisine.
Visit Swissminiatur in Melide
Swissminiatur is an open-air miniature park located just a few minutes from Lugano, in the town of Melide. It’s a fun and educational stop for families, with over 120 detailed models of famous Swiss landmarks, all surrounded by gardens and mountain views.
FAQ: Lugano weekend trip
Is Lugano worth visiting?
Absolutely. Lugano is one of Switzerland’s most unique destinations, offering a mix of Italian charm and Swiss quality in a stunning lakeside setting. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic views, local food, sunny weather, and easy day trips—including visits to Italy just across the border.
Where is Lugano located?Lugano is in southern Switzerland, in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. It sits on Lake Lugano between Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore.
What’s the best way to get to Lugano?The train is the most convenient and reliable option, especially from Zurich or Lucerne. It avoids Gotthard tunnel traffic and takes you directly into the city center.
Is Lugano good for a weekend trip?Yes. Lugano has the right mix of nature, culture, food, and relaxation for a 2- or 3-day trip.
What’s the weather like in Lugano?Lugano enjoys a sunny, Mediterranean-style climate. Even when it’s grey or foggy in northern Switzerland, Lugano often stays warm and bright.
What can I do in Lugano with kids?Families will love Parco Ciani, boat rides on the lake, Monte Tamaro’s adventure park, and Swissminiatur. The city is also stroller-friendly and relaxed.
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