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Lugano

Alpine-lake promenades, piazzas & mountain funiculars

Browse Lugano

Lugano is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Lugano Drinking-Water Fountains, Lake Lugano and Parco Ciani. Food lovers should not miss Antica Osteria del Porto and Grotto dei Pescatori. Below you will find 12 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Lugano at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Lugano Drinking-Water Fountains and Lake Lugano
  • Where to stay: Lakefront and Bre
  • Local picks: 12 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Where to stay in Lugano

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Cassarate

Lake fish and Italian classics in a historic riverside farmhouse.
★ 4.5
$$$

Centre

A hillside cathedral with a fine Renaissance facade and frescoes.
★ 4.4
$

Gandria

A car-free lakeside village of stacked houses and stepped lanes.
★ 4.6
$

Lake

A boat-accessed grotto on a wild lakeshore for hearty Ticinese fare.
★ 4.5
$$

Lakefront

A glittering alpine lake framed by mountains and palm-lined promenades.
★ 4.7
$

Lakefront

A scenic cruise between the lakes villages and mountain views.
★ 4.6
$$

Lakefront

Lugano’s tap water is famously excellent, and the many public fountains dotted (and half-hidden) around the city and lakefront are a genuine local treat on a summer day. Carry a bottle, skip the single-use plastic, and refill as you wander – some of the prettiest fountains are just outside the centre.
★ 4.2
$

Centre

The regions leading art museum, strong on modern masters.
★ 4.4
$

Bre

A funicular ride to a sunny summit and mountain village.
★ 4.6
$

Paradiso

A pyramid peak with a panorama over the lake and the Alps.
★ 4.7
$

Centre

A romantic lakeside park of grand trees and flowerbeds.
★ 4.6
$

Lakefront

A grand lakeside hotel set in its own subtropical park.
★ 4.6
$$$

Book your trip to Lugano

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Lugano travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Lugano?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Lugano at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Lugano?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Lugano?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Lugano guide.

What is the best time to visit Lugano?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Lugano is worth visiting year-round.

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