Things to do in Ticino
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ticino has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Ticino's historic fortifications and monuments, from grand castles in Bellinzona to lakeside cathedrals.
Castelgrande Castle
A medieval fortress guarding Bellinzona's old town with towers and ramparts offering panoramic views.
Montebello Castle
Impressive fortress dominating Bellinzona's skyline and reflecting centuries of history.
Sasso Corbaro Castle
Hilltop castle overlooking Bellinzona, part of the UNESCO-listed fortress trio.
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo (Lugano)
Gothic-style cathedral in Lugano's historic center with a distinctive façade and tower.
Museums
Discover the region's art and culture in its standout museums.
MASI Lugano (Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana)
Major collection of Italian-Swiss art spanning 19th century to contemporary works.
Villa dei Cedri (Bellinzona)
Modern art museum set in a historic villa in Bellinzona.
LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura
Cultural complex with galleries, performances and rotating exhibitions.
Casa Rusca (Locarno)
Historic house museum in Locarno showcasing local art and history.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites perched above lakes and valleys showcase Ticino's spiritual heritage.
Santuario della Madonna del Sasso (Orselina)
Famous sanctuary above Locarno with devotional art and sweeping lake views.
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo (Lugano)
Gothic cathedral in Lugano with historic interiors and a peaceful cloister area.
National & Theme Parks
From a miniature Swiss world to lush botanical escapes, parks and gardens showcase Ticino’s nature.
Swissminiatur (Melide)
Outdoor park with miniature replicas of Switzerland's landmarks.
Parco Botanico San Grato (Carona)
Botanical garden famed for evergreens and azaleas with lake views.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through enchanting old towns and lakeside quarters.
Lugano Old Town (Centro Storico)
Historic lanes, cafés and squares around the city’s heart.
Bellinzona Old Town
Cozy lanes, arches and the UNESCO fortress ensemble nearby.
Ascona Old Town
Colorful waterfront streets and piazzas along Lake Maggiore.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy stunning scenery and walks that don’t cost a cent.
Lugano Lakeside Promenade & Parco Ciani
Stroll the lakefront and manicured gardens with views over the water.
Verzasca Valley & Ponte dei Salti
Walk the Verzasca river gorge and iconic stone arch bridge.
Hike to viewpoints on Monte Brè
Choose a scenic ridge hike for sweeping lake panoramas.
Gastronomy
Taste classic Ticino flavors and local wines.
Polenta e Brasato
Polenta served with slow-cooked beef, a Ticino staple.
Risotto al Pesce Persico (Perch)
Creamy risotto featuring locally caught perch.
Merlot Ticino Wine Tasting
Sample the region’s Merlot in a scenic winery setting.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive along lakefront plazas and lively squares.
Piazza della Riforma (Lugano) nightlife
Bars and terraces lining the central square with a lakeside vibe.
Piazza Grande (Locarno) evening scene
Outdoor venues and lively atmosphere during warmer months.
Ascona lakeside lounges
Relaxed bars and cafés along the water’s edge.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and festivals across Lugano and Locarno.
LAC Lugano (theatre and exhibitions)
Seasonal performances and contemporary art spaces.
Locarno Film Festival
International film festival drawing crowds to Piazza Grande.
Teatro Sociale Bellinzona
Historic theatre hosting plays and concerts.
Sports
Active outdoor adventures around mountains and lakes.
Hiking Monte Brè (Lugano)
Scenic ridge hike with panoramic lake views.
Verzasca Dam bungee jump
Adrenaline-filled jump against the Verzasca valley backdrop.
Kayaking on Lake Lugano
Paddle along scenic shores and green hills.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and offbeat routes for curious travelers.
Onsernone Valley villages
Remote hamlets and winding lanes in a tranquil valley.
Brissago Islands
Two small islands on Lake Maggiore with a tropical garden.
Gandria hillside lanes
Quaint, steep streets above Lake Lugano with lake views.