Lugano is the largest city in the Ticino area of Switzerland and lies very close to the Italian border. This, along with the fact that it sits on Lake Lugano, gives the city a distinctly Mediterranean feel so it’s no wonder that some have called it “the Monte Carlo of Switzerland”. It’s also why it’s one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy ranging from mountain biking to walking – hiring a car in Lugano will allow you to take everything in. The city itself is largely pedestrianised with a compact centre and maze of cobbled streets giving out onto broad squares lined with bars and restaurants.
At the centre of Lugano is its 16th century cathedral, Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, which contains many fine statues in the baroque style and beautiful frescoes too. Stand outside and you’ll also enjoy a very good view over the rooftops of Lugano’s beautiful Old Town. A great place to take advantage of the area’s excellent climate is in the Parco Civico which sits beside the lake and the nearby Belvedere Gardens – which homes many sub-tropical species of plants. Rent a car in Lugano and you will also be able to head up to Monte Bré which is said to be the sunniest spot in Switzerland.
