While Lake Como captures much of the spotlight, Switzerland’s Italian-speaking canton of Ticino offers equally stunning landscapes with a unique blend of Swiss efficiency and Italian dolce vita. Located in Switzerland’s southern region, bordering Italy, Ticino combines palm-lined lakes, alpine peaks, and medieval architecture with fewer crowds and exceptional infrastructure.
Location & Getting There
Ticino is easily accessible via Switzerland’s efficient rail network, with direct connections from Zurich (2.5 hours) and Milan (1.5 hours). The region centers around two major cities: Lugano and Locarno, both situated on pristine lakes (Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore, respectively).
What to See & Do
Natural Attractions
- Lake Lugano: Take boat trips to explore picturesque villages like Gandria and Morcote
- Monte San Salvatore: Ride the funicular for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Alps
- Valle Verzasca: Marvel at the crystal-clear emerald waters and the famous Ponte dei Salti bridge
- Brissago Islands: Visit Switzerland’s only botanical garden on an island, home to exotic plants
Cultural Highlights
- Castelgrande: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site in Bellinzona
- Santa Maria degli Angioli: Admire Renaissance frescoes in this 16th-century church in Lugano
- LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura: Experience contemporary art in this modern cultural center
- Locarno Film Festival: Visit in August for one of Europe’s major film festivals
Activities
- Hiking: Trek the Sentiero dei Laghi connecting mountain lakes
- Wine Tasting: Visit Merlot vineyards in Mendrisiotto
- Swimming: Enjoy lake beaches and lidos
- Mountain Biking: Explore extensive trail networks
Where to Stay
Luxury
- Villa Principe Leopoldo, Lugano: Former palace with lake views
- Hotel Splendide Royal, Lugano: Belle Époque luxury with Michelin-starred dining
Mid-Range
- Hotel Belvedere Locarno: Art Nouveau hotel with panoramic views
- Hotel International au Lac, Lugano: Historic lakefront property with swimming pool
Boutique
- The View Lugano: Contemporary design hotel with spa
- Hotel Sass da Grüm: Mountain retreat with spectacular views
Where to Eat
High-End Restaurants
- Locanda Orico (Bellinzona): Michelin-starred local cuisine
- Seven (Ascona): Creative Mediterranean dishes with lake views
Traditional Ticino Cuisine
- Grotto Broggini (Losone): Authentic grotto serving local specialties
- Bottegone del Vino (Lugano): Historic wine bar with regional dishes
Casual Dining
- Grotto San Michele (Bellinzona): Family-style grotto restaurant
- Osteria Giardinetto (Morcote): Lakeside dining with fresh fish
5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Lugano
- Morning: Explore Lugano’s old town and lakefront promenade
- Afternoon: Take the funicular up Monte San Salvatore
- Evening: Dinner at Seven in nearby Ascona
Day 2: Bellinzona & Wine Country
- Morning: Visit Bellinzona’s three castles (UNESCO sites)
- Afternoon: Wine tasting in Mendrisiotto
- Evening: Dinner at Locanda Orico
Day 3: Valle Verzasca
- Morning: Visit the famous double-arched bridge
- Afternoon: Hike along the emerald river
- Evening: Traditional dinner at a local grotto
Day 4: Lake Adventure
- Morning: Boat trip to Gandria
- Afternoon: Visit Brissago Islands
- Evening: Sunset dinner in Morcote
Day 5: Locarno & Mountains
- Morning: Explore Locarno’s old town
- Afternoon: Cable car to Cardada for Alpine views
- Evening: Final dinner at Grotto Broggini
Best Time to Visit
Visit between April and October for the best weather. July and August are warmest but busiest. September and October offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Ticino offers the perfect blend of Swiss organization and Italian flair, making it an excellent alternative to Lake Como. With fewer crowds, better infrastructure, and equally stunning scenery, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a Mediterranean-Alpine setting.
