Things to do in Lugano
Discover the best attractions and experiences Lugano has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Lugano's enduring landmarks that reveal centuries of Ticino history.
Cathedral of San Lorenzo
Lugano's Gothic–Renaissance cathedral sits in the heart of the old town, with a tower offering city views.
Old Town of Lugano
Wander the medieval streets, arcades and pastel façades that tell Lugano's history.
Gandria Old Village
A picturesque lakeside hamlet with narrow lanes and ivy-covered stone houses.
Museums
Dive into Lugano’s culture scene with a mix of art, history and world culture.
MASI Lugano (Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana)
Cantonal art collection showcasing Italian-speaking Swiss artists from the 19th century to today.
LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura
A lakeside cultural hub hosting contemporary art, theatre, concerts and film.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites offer architectural beauty and a window into local faith and tradition.
Cathedral of San Lorenzo
A landmark in the center with rich religious art and a historic tower.
Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli
Historic church reflecting the region's religious heritage.
National & Theme Parks
Escape to green spaces and family-friendly parks around Lugano.
Swissminiatur (Melide)
A charming theme park with miniature replicas of Switzerland's landmarks.
Parco Ciani (Lugano)
Lugano's main lakeside park with lawns, statues and sweeping views.
Valle di Muggio Natural Park
Protected valley in Ticino offering scenic trails and wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Explore distinctive districts and hillside villages that define Lugano’s character.
Lugano Old Town (Centro Storico)
Historic heart filled with plazas, narrow lanes and cafés.
Gandria
A charming lakeside village with steep lanes and waterside charm.
Brè Village
A hillside quarter offering panoramic views and traditional stone houses.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Lugano with no admission fees and plenty of open-air memories.
Lakeside promenade stroll
Walk along the Lugano lakefront and enjoy the views.
Parco Ciani stroll
Relax in Lugano's central park with ponds and sculptures.
Old Town exploration
Roam the historic streets and discover hidden corners.
Gastronomy
Savor Ticino flavors and local wines in charming eateries and grotto taverns.
Polenta e Brasato
Polenta served with slowly braised beef in red wine sauce.
Polenta e Funghi
Creamy polenta topped with seasonal mushrooms.
Merlot Ticinese
Sample the local Merlot wine with regional dishes.
Nightlife
Evenings in Lugano blend cultural vibes with lively lakeside atmosphere.
LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura evenings
Evening performances, shows and cinema at the lakeside venue.
Lugano lakefront bars
Relax with a drink along the promenade and take in the night views.
Grotto Ticinese taverns
Traditional wine taverns offering local fare in a rustic setting.
Entertainment
Cultural happenings, scenic rides and performances add sparkle to your stay.
LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura programs
Seasonal exhibitions, theater and concerts year-round.
Funicular ride to Monte Brè (sunset views)
A scenic ascent with panoramic lake and Alps scenery.
Evening concerts in Parco Ciani
Occasional outdoor music events in Lugano's lakeside park.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the great outdoors and the lake.
Lake Lugano boat tour
Relaxing boat ride to see the coastline from the water.
Hike Monte San Salvatore
A popular trail with sweeping views of Lugano and the lake.
Hike Monte Brè
Easy to moderate hike with panoramic lake and mountain vistas.
Off the Track
Seek out lesser-known angles of Lugano for a unique experience.
Gandria's hidden trails
Explore secluded lanes and hidden viewpoints above the lake.
Secret viewpoints along the Lugano coast
Find lesser-visited overlooks that reward the curious hiker.
Old mule paths to hillside hamlets
Follow quiet routes between villages for a tranquil day.