Lugano, Switzerland: A Family-Friendly Adventure Getaway!

Experience Swiss serenity and family fun in scenic Lugano.

19 July 2023

Lugano, Switzerland is a picturesque destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly activities. With its stunning lake surrounded by mountains, families can indulge in boat rides, picnics by the waterfront, and leisurely strolls along the promenade. The city also boasts numerous parks, museums, and the Swissminiatur Park, an outdoor exhibition that showcases the highlights of Switzerland in miniature form, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable family vacation.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Lugano, the Lakeside Gem!

  • Stay at the family-friendly Hotel Splendide Royal, located on the picturesque lakeside, offering stunning views and top-notch services.
  • Start the day with a lakeside stroll along the beautiful promenade, soaking in the ethereal Swiss scenery.
  • Visit the Swissminiatur, where you can feel like a giant in a land of tiny landmarks, miniature railways, and even Lilliputian Swiss cows!
  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Grotto Flora, a charming family-friendly restaurant offering traditional Ticinese specialties with a modern twist.
  • Wander through the enchanting Parco Civico, a lush oasis filled with vibrant flowers, majestic trees, and even a mini zoo!
  • Spend a relaxed evening at the Lido di Lugano, enjoying the beach, swimming pools, and waterslides with the kids.
Day 2

Discover Lugano's Cultural Charms

  • Have a scrumptious breakfast at the Ristorante Argentino El Conquistador, where you'll find mouthwatering Argentinean empanadas to start your day.
  • Explore the fascinating Museum of Archaeology, housing artifacts from the ancient Celts to the Romans, making history come alive for the whole family.
  • Take a funicular ride up to Monte San Salvatore, offering breathtaking views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding Alps – a perfect backdrop for a family photo!
  • Enjoy a delightful picnic at Parco San Grato, a serene park with panoramic vistas, whimsical sculptures, and even a playground for the little ones.
  • Treat yourselves to a memorable dinner at Ristorante Al Portone, savoring delectable Italian dishes in a charming courtyard atmosphere.
  • Finish the day with gelato from Zena, a local favorite gelateria with tantalizing flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
Day 3

Adventures on the Water

  • Embark on an exciting boat tour around Lake Lugano, admiring the stunning landscapes and historic villas dotting the shoreline.
  • Go fishing at the idyllic Lake Muzzano, where the kids can learn the art of angling amidst nature's tranquility.
  • Discover the artistic secrets of the Hermann Hesse Museum, nestled in the poet's former residence, showcasing his literary legacy and captivating gardens.
  • Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Ristorante Soave 10, a charming eatery offering delicious pizza and pasta, with a lovely outdoor terrace.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the Sentiero dell'olivo, a scenic path lined with olive trees, connecting Gandria and Castagnola, revealing Lugano's agricultural heritage.
  • Dine at La Tinera, a quirky restaurant housed in a tiny rustic cottage, serving mouthwatering Swiss cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventures and Farewell

  • Start the day with an invigorating hike up to Monte Brè, the sun-kissed mountain providing breathtaking views of Lugano and the Swiss Alps.
  • Indulge in a delicious brunch at Boccadoro, an elegant lakefront restaurant offering an array of delectable breakfast treats.
  • Spend a fun-filled day at Swiss Adventure Park, where thrilling ziplines, treetop courses, and rope swings await, ensuring an adrenaline-fueled family experience.
  • Have a late afternoon snack at Caffè Stella Alpina, treating yourself to mouthwatering Swiss pastries and aromatic coffee, before bidding Lugano farewell.
  • As the sun sets over the tranquil lake, take a moment to reflect on the memories made in Lugano, leaving with a heart full of joy and a desire to return.

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.

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