Lugano, Mediterranean charm in Switzerland
Are you looking for a vacation destination that combines Mediterranean climate, water and greenery and is different from Spain, France or Italy? Then Lugano is the place for you.
Lugano, an enchanting city
Located in the Swiss region of Ticino, this town, where Mediterranean lifestyle reigns supreme, is a perfect combination of everything that makes for a happy vacation. You'll find piazza-style squares, Italian Lombard architecture, Renaissance churches and beautiful Belle Époque buildings, all in a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. Culture lovers will also be in their element. The city is packed with museums and temporary events. These include the Swiss Art Museum, where you can admire works by Renoir and Degas.
Nature lovers
Are you more of a nature lover? No problem, Lake Lugano, surrounded by the verdant Parco Civico, awaits you. You can also visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, whose peaks offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Lake Lugano and the surrounding Alpine landscape.
Lake Lugano attracts water rats. There's even a heated Olympic pool, plus a diving pool, trampolines, a children's pool and a beach volleyball court. If you're looking for a more tranquil setting, relax on the sandy beach of Lake Ceresio or book a boat trip to enjoy the silence and the water.
Parco Ciani is just a short distance from the town center, but it feels like you're miles from the city. Stroll among the flowerbeds and fountains overlooking the lake, follow the promenade along the water towards Paradiso and the Belvedere gardens. From Paradiso, you can take the cable car up to Monte San Salvatore. Monte San Salvatore offers 360-degree views of the lake, the far south and the Alps to the west. Monte Brè overlooks Monte San Salvatore. This mountain is also accessible by cable car and is considered Switzerland's sunniest mountain.
Eat and sleep in style
Of course, you can round off the day with a tempting meal in one of the city's many restaurants. Lugano combines the best of its Mediterranean roots with an abundance of pasta, a focus on local produce and delicious Swiss wines to top it all off. Sleep and rejuvenate at the maximalist Villa Castagnola hotel . Set in a private subtropical park, this hotel's garden is as spectacular as its interior. However, the Galleria Arté al Lago restaurant is the real attraction. Twice a year, local and international artists exhibit their work in this picturesque setting.
You can book Villa Castagnola yourself on our website. Need help planning your trip?
No problem, Joren will be happy to help!