Top 10 things to do in Lugano

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1. Take a boat trip on Lake Lugano

Take one of the several excursions that sail from Lugano. Cruises are available every day and will let you discover the most fascinating spots of Lake Lugano. Paddle boats are available as well.

2. Parco Civico

The well-kept Parco Civico is probably the most famous park in Lugano, perfect for relaxing next to Lake Lugano or having a stroll when the weather is nice. Several activities are available and lots of locals and tourists alike have fun feeding ducks and swans. Elders do not have to be worried as the park is filled with benches where they can comfortably sit after much walking.

3. Monte Bre’

Located east of Lugano, the summit of Monte Bre’ (925 m) is considered an incredible place to watch the sunset, allowing an almost 360 degrees view over Lugano, the Lake and the Alps. The walk from Lugano to the top is neither strenuous nor long thus it is highly recommended, thanks also to well-marked paths; alternatively one can take the bus or the scenic - but expensive - funicular.

4. Riforma Square

Riforma Square (Italian name: Piazza della Riforma) is the main square in Lugano and it is surrounded by cozy buildings that serve different purposes (banks, cafes, restaurants). The most important building here is the City Hall, which displays several pictures of the old Lugano; the building is open to public.

5. Saint Lawrence Cathedral

Featuring an impressive early Renaissance façade, Saint Lawrence Cathedral is an impressive landmark from the 16th century that surely deserves to be visited while being in Lugano.

6. Swissminiatur

Switzerland might not be the largest country in the world, but it surely features several unique landmarks; therefore a tour of the country would require more than a few days. For those who cannot make it, visiting Swissminiatur could be the right thing to do, as this theme park boosts all the Swiss monuments and sites in a much smaller scale.

7. FoxTown

Along with neighboring Italians and French, Swiss love shopping and style. Do as the locals do and head to FoxTown, a massive 160 shops outlet where it is possible to find heavily discounted luxury clothes and accessories. The FoxTown building is reachable on foot from Mendrisio train station.

8. Monte San Salvatore

Monte San Salvatore is a beautiful mountain - almost 1000 m tall – very close Lake Lugano (on the opposite side of Monte Bre’). One can enjoy great views from the historic cable cars that take people to the top.

9. Cantonale Art Museum

This museum is a small gem that will let you understand more about Ticino, thanks to its permanent collection of artistic operas mainly dedicated to the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland.