Lugano, Switzerland: A Perfect 2-Day Getaway

Discover the charm of Lugano, where Swiss tradition meets Italian style.

17 June 2023

Lugano is a picturesque city nestled in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, offering visitors a perfect mix of Swiss Alpine beauty and vibrant Mediterranean culture. Tourists can explore the charming old town, admire breathtaking vistas of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains, and indulge in delicious Italian cuisine. In Lugano, visitors can also shop at upscale boutiques and enjoy art exhibitions at world-renowned museums.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Lakeside Bliss

  • Check into luxurious Villa Principe Leopoldo Hotel and Spa
  • Visit Parco Ciani, a tranquil park on the shores of Lake Lugano
  • Hop on a boat tour to explore the lake’s whimsical surrounding villages
  • Embark on the Monte San Salvatore cable car ride for panoramic views of the lake and the Swiss mountains
  • Dine in elegance at Locanda Orico, where Executive Chef Claudio Bove presents traditional Ticinese dishes using local ingredients
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Enjoy breakfast at the stylish Alprose Chocolate Museum and learn about the history and production of Swiss chocolate
  • Visit the Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angioli, a 16th-century church adorned with frescoes by Bernardino Luini
  • Explore the art collections and exhibitions at the prestigious Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana
  • Have lunch at the rustic Al Grottino, famous for its traditional Swiss dishes and cozy atmosphere
  • Take a stroll through the charming streets of Lugano’s old town, filled with quaint shops and boutiques
  • Note: Don't forget to try some of Swiss chocolate while you're in town!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lugano, Switzerland by plane is to fly into Lugano Airport (LUG) which is about 6km from the city center. Several airlines such as Swiss Air, Lufthansa and EasyJet have regular flights to and from Lugano.

Car

If you decide to drive, the best way to get to Lugano is to take the A2 highway and then take exit 49 for Lugano Sud.

Train

If you prefer to take the train, the best way to get to Lugano is by taking the train to Lugano Railway Station. There are direct train connections to Lugano from major European cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Milan.

Boat

Getting to Lugano by boat is possible in the summer months as there is a regular boat service run by the Swiss Navigation Company which offers routes from Lucerne, Zurich, and other cities around Lake Lucerne and Lake Zurich.

Bus

The best way to get to Lugano by bus is to take the Flixbus which offers direct connections from cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Milan.

Destination

Lugano

In the land of Swiss chocolate and cuckoo clocks lies the quaint town of Lugano. Don't be fooled by its peaceful exterior though, there's more to this town than meets the eye...

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Lugano: The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure for the Whole Family

Experience the perfect family-friendly trip to Lugano, Switzerland, where breathtaking natural beauty meets adventure. Explore the enchanting Parco Civico, a sprawling park nestled between Lake Lugano and the city center, offering playgrounds, picturesque promenades, and picnic spots. Embark on an unforgettable boat ride across the lake, mesmerizing children and adults alike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, while indulging in delicious Swiss delicacies onboard.

4 Days of Budget Bliss in Lugano, Switzerland

Lugano is a picturesque town in southern Switzerland, well-known for its beautiful parks, stunning lake views and charming cobblestone streets. Travelling on a limited budget, tourists can enjoy free activities like hiking in the surrounding hills, exploring the historic town center and swimming in the refreshing waters of the lake. For a taste of Switzerland's famous chocolate, the Alprose Chocolate Factory offers free tours with plenty of samples to enjoy.

Luxe on a budget: 5 days in Lugano

Lugano, Switzerland is a stunning destination that offers plenty of budget-friendly activities for travelers. Visitors can explore the beautiful scenery of Lake Lugano, which provides the perfect backdrop for picnics and hikes. Additionally, the city's historical center offers numerous opportunities to explore local culture and architecture, including the Lugano Cathedral, followed by a tasty lunch at one of the city's affordable eateries.

A Swiss Romantic Getaway: A Day in Lugano

Lugano, Switzerland is a picture-perfect destination for a romantic trip. With its breathtaking lake views, charming cobblestone streets, and stunning natural scenery, Lugano offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, indulging in local cuisine, or exploring the nearby mountains, Lugano is guaranteed to leave you and your loved one with unforgettable memories.