Lugano, Switzerland: a Day Trip to Lakeside Bliss

Create lasting memories amidst the Swiss charm of Lugano, the perfect family-friendly getaway.

19 July 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Lugano's Lakeside Paradise

  • Start your day with a scenic stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Lugano; the calm waters greet you like a friendly duck.
  • Visit Parco Ciani, a charming park filled with colorful flowers, ancient trees, and a dash of gentle breeze, perfect for a family picnic or butterfly chasing.
  • Marvel at the elegant façade of the neoclassical Palazzo Civico. It's like the Rockstar of architecture, demanding attention with its grandeur.
  • Take a leisurely boat ride across the lake, channeling your inner pirate with the wind in your hair and the sound of seagulls harmonizing in your ears.
  • For a dose of culture, wander through the narrow streets of Lugano's old town, where you'll find quaint shops, gelaterias, and the enchanting Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli.
  • Indulge in a delightful Swiss dinner at Ristorante Galleria Arté al Lago. With dishes bursting with flavors, it's like a culinary symphony in your mouth.

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

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.

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.

Discover Lugano: A 4-Day Adventure Guide

As a tourist in Lugano, one can expect to be mesmerized by the natural beauty of the city. Lugano's scenic views, mountains, and lakes make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The city also boasts an array of art galleries, historical landmarks and designer shops that make it a perfect spot for cultural explorations and shopping.

Lugano, Switzerland: A Family-Friendly Adventure Getaway!

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.