Location Detail
Lugano [close]
Europe - Switzerland - Lugano

Location Overview

With its warm climate and Latin Character, Lugano is a carefree town nestled between the peaks of San Salvatore and Monte Bré. The swaying palms and cypress trees give it a distinct Italian feeling, and it is, in fact, the largest town in the Italian-speaking Tessin canton. Due to its pleasant climate and breezy Mediterranean ambience, Lugano is one of the all time favourites and most frequently visited resort areas during the warmer months. Reaching up the hillside on a bed of terraces,the old town has many buildings of historical interest. But if you prefer a little more hustle and bustle, then head down to the Palazzo Civico. Filled with many restaurants and boutiques, colourful, dynamic and lively, the Palazzo is the pulsating heart of the town.

The twisted and irregularly shaped Lake of Lugano is spectacularly picturesque as is the bordering scenery. A boat ride along the lake provides some wonderful photo opportunities but to obtain the best views of the lake, head for one of the little, secluded fishing villages, perhaps Gandria or Morcate. Sit down in a grotto draped in grape vines and experience some tasty local delicacies accompanied by a cool glass of local wine before indulging in some excellent shopping along
the Via Nassa.

Lugano offers a wide variety of cultural, art and musical events each offering a unique way to explore the city's history and traditions.

The annual classical and jazz music festivals attract countless visitors as do the many exhibitions particularly in the famous Thyssen-Bornemisza art gallery, Villa Favorita, directly on the lake. The historic churches including Santa Maria degli Angioli and the cathedral San Lorenzo are well worth a visit.