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.

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Travel plan

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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...

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Fun-Filled Family Getaway: 2 Days in Lugano, Switzerland!

Lugano, Switzerland, offers a wonderful family-friendly trip with its picturesque landscapes, vibrant city life, and a plethora of engaging activities. Explore the pristine Lake Lugano by boat or try your hand at paddleboarding while admiring the stunning Alpine scenery. Venture into Parco Ciani, a beautiful lakeside park, where kids can run freely and enjoy the playgrounds, or visit the Swiss Miniatur, a park that showcases a miniature reproduction of Switzerland's famous landmarks in an interactive and educational way.

Lugano, Switzerland: a Day Trip to Lakeside Bliss

Lugano, Switzerland offers the perfect family-friendly trip with its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and numerous fun activities. Explore the picturesque Lake Lugano with a scenic boat ride or enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade lined with cafes and shops. Visit the Swissminiatur Park to witness the country's famous landmarks in miniature form or dive into adventure at Parco San Marco, a fantastic resort with a water park, animal encounters, and various outdoor activities suitable for all ages.

Budget-Friendly Fun: A 3-Day Lugano Adventure

Visiting Lugano, Switzerland on a limited budget means strategically planning your itinerary. Take advantage of free activities such as hiking in the nearby mountains or walking along the picturesque lakeside promenade. Budget-friendly accommodation options can be found in the city center or by booking a hostel or Airbnb outside the main tourist areas.

Lugano on a Budget: Lake Views & Local Eats

A trip to Lugano on a limited budget can be a great adventure. There are many affordable accommodations available, and plenty of inexpensive options for food and entertainment. With stunning views of Lake Lugano and easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities, it's a perfect destination for those who want to experience the beauty of Switzerland without breaking the bank.