Things to do in Lugano

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Lugano

Types of activities

Where to stay

Lugano travel guide

Switzerland which includes a lake or waterhole

Monte San Salvatore featuring a river or creek, views and landscape views

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What to do in Lugano

Popular places to visit

Palazzo dei Congressi

Learn about the events happening in Palazzo dei Congressi during your trip to Lugano. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Via Nassa

During your trip to Lugano, you can enjoy retail therapy at Via Nassa. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Mount Brè

Explore the great outdoors at Mount Brè and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Lugano. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this quaint area.

Monte San Salvatore

Climb to the top of this lakeside mountain to dine while enjoying panoramic views across the Swiss Alps.

LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura

You can enjoy some culture when you stop by LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura in Lugano. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this culturally rich area.

Parco Ciani

Explore the lovely green spaces of Parco Ciani and also enjoy the boating in Lugano. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Santa Maria degli Angeli

Experience one of Switzerland’s most impressive Romanesque churches and its enormous 16th-century fresco.

Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station

Find out about the history of Lugano when you spend time at Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Lungolago

You can find out about the history of Lugano with a visit to Lungolago. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Areas of Lugano

Lugano City-Centre

5/5(11 area reviews)

Visitors often come to Lugano City-Centre for its lake views, but many stay to explore sights like Lake Lugano and Via Nassa. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you take a ride at Lugano Funicular Station.

Cassarate

If you're spending some time in Cassarate, Lake Lugano and Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station are top sights worth seeing.

I took this photo from Monte San Salvatore in Ticino, Switzerland. It was a beautiful Spring moment! This spot gives great views of the mountains surrounding Lake Lugano! Usually, it is sunny and clear from here, but on that day, my only day on Monte San Salvatore, I got an atmospheric experience! And Monte San Salvatore is above the city of Lugano, so it's quite easy to get there!

Carona

You'll enjoy the mountain views and parks in Carona. You might want to make time for a stop at Monte San Salvatore or Schwimmbad Carona.

Loreto

If you're spending some time in Loreto, MASILugano Museum of Art of Italian Switzerland and LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura are top sights worth seeing.

Viganello

Viganello is well liked for its mountain views. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Lugano area, you might plan a trip to Lake Lugano or Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station.

Santa Maria degli Angeli featuring a church or cathedral, religious aspects and interior views

Besso

While there might not be top attractions in Besso, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Lake Lugano and Via Nassa.

Morcote

Lanzo d'Intelvi

Valsolda

Campione d'Italia

Porza

Castagnola

Frequently asked questions

Is Lugano worth visiting?

With a mix of culture and mountain biking, there are many things to do in Lugano. While you're here, head to Museum of Modern Art, a key attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Lugano?

Begin your day with a visit to Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station and Mount Brè. Then, explore different parts of Lugano for a bite to eat and some shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Lugano?

Museum of Modern Art is one of the top tourist attractions in Lugano and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Lugano?

Three days in Lugano is enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many travellers book for three days on average. Museum of Modern Art, Art Museum Lugano and Gabriele and Anna Braglia Foundation are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots like Como.

Is Lugano a walkable city?

Some leading sights in Lugano, including Museum of Modern Art and Art Museum Lugano, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.32 kilometres from the city centre of Lugano is Lugano City-Centre and Aldesago is 2 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Lugano with kids?

Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Lugano with kids.

What to do in Lugano for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Lugano, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Museo delle Dogane Svizzere.

Are there free things to do in Lugano?

From enjoying parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Lugano. If you need inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Art Museum Lugano is a must for anyone planning to save on their travelling adventures.