The best way I can describe Lugano, Switzerland is a bite of Italy in the heart of Switzerland. It has all the incredible Italian cuisine we love with the safety and cleanliness one can only find in Switzerland. You could comfortably spend anywhere from a weekend to a week in Lugano. Today I’ll be sharing my Weekend in Lugano, Switzerland Guide.
Weekend in Lugano, Switzerland Guide
Getting to Lugano
Lugano is located about 30 minutes from the Swiss-Italian border, making it an easy destination from places like Como and Milan.
Getting to Lugano from:
- Milan: ~1hr 45 min by train
- Lake Como: ~40 min by train
- Zurich: ~2 hrs by train
Getting around Lugano
Download the SBB app if you don’t have it already. It will let you know the best ways to get around Lugano by bus (and train options if leaving the area).
If are looking to get downtown Lugano from the train station, you can either take the funicular or walk down the stairs. Pro tip: walk down, and take the funicular up!
Weekend in Lugano, Switzerland: Must Visit Spots
Monte Bré
Monte Bré is a must if you’re looking for a spectacular view of Lake Lugano and the surrounding area. You can do a 2 hour hike or take the funicolare (like a cable car) up. This article proposes a nice day/half day trip activity while on your visit to Monte Bré.
Getting to Monte Bré: Ideally you’ll have a car to make the short 25 minute drive up to the mountain from downtown Lugano. You can also take a bus up to the mountain (the #12), however, you’ll still be required to do some walking.
Funicolare Hours: Daily 9 AM – 7 PM
Funicolare Ticket Cost: Prices change depending on if you want a one-way or roundtrip, age, etc. Visit the site here for more info.
Cathedral of Saint Lawrence (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)
The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, founded in the Middle Ages and later rebuilt in the 15th century, is another spot to visit while in Lugano. While I wouldn’t call it an absolute must-see, if you have a couple of minutes, it is worth checking out. The unassuming exterior hides a pretty impressive interior.
Location: Via Borghetto 1, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
Take a walk around Lake Lugano
Walking around Lake Lugano might have been one of my *favorite* activities. It is so serene and relaxing, I could have stared out at the water all day! Grab a coffee from a nearby stand, or go for a post-lunch or post-breakfast walk. The earlier you go, the more likely you are to get the area to yourself.
Parco Civico-Ciani
Parco Civico-Ciani or just Parco Civico (as the locals call it) really speaks for itself. Sit on a bench and enjoy the views, have a little picnic, go for a run, or walk your dog.
Hours: daily 6 AM – 11 PM
Weekend in Lugano, Switzerland: Must Eat
Grand Café Al Porto
The Grand Café Al Porto I would vote is the most Instagrammable cafe in Lugano. It feels straight out of a storybook with desserts so beautiful you don’t want to eat them! Stop in for afternoon tea & pastries.
Location: Via Pessina 3, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
Hours:
- Mon – Sat: 8 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sun: Closed
Vanini Dolce e Caffè
Vanini’s is an iconic stop for locals and visitors alike. Opened in 1871, it’s the perfect spot to people watch and enjoy the sunshine on a summer day with an ice cream in hand or a cup of hot chocolate on a winter’s day.
Location: Piazza Riforma 1, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
Pane & Zucchero
Pane e Zucchero is the perfect stop on your way to go for a walk on the lake if you’re looking for a quick and cozy locals breakfast. Go for something hearty or a quick Italian patisserie and coffee.
Location: Viale Castagnola 21/F, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
This sounds like the perfect weekend getaway spot complete with a stunning hike 🖤
it really is!
This sounds so awesome! I want to travel here!!