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Intro

Lake Lugano in Ticino enchants with its Mediterranean flair and the Alps in the background. From idyllic villages such as Morcote to spectacular views from Monte San Salvatore - a paradise for nature and culture lovers, ideal for boat trips, hikes and water sports.

Lake Lugano at a glance

This is Lake Lugano

Lake Lugano, also known as Lago di Lugano, is located in the southern part of Switzerland in the canton of Ticino, right on the border with Italy. With its picturesque shores and mild climate, Lake Lugano is a popular excursion destination.

Discover Lake Lugano

The city of Lugano and Lake Lugano are inextricably linked. From Lugano train station, you can get directly to the numerous scheduled boats that depart here every day. A boat trip on Lake Lugano offers you a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains and charming towns such as Morcote and Gandria

Boat trips and water sports

Lake Lugano is ideal for boat trips. You have the choice between traditional boats and boats that run regularly between the lakeside communities. The lake offers ideal conditions for water sports enthusiasts. You can go sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddling or diving. There are numerous bathing spots for a relaxing day on the water, including the Lido di Lugano.

Mountains on Lake Lugano

Lake Lugano is surrounded by impressive mountains. Monte Brè, which can be reached by cable car from Lugano, offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Another highlight is Monte San Salvatore, which can be reached by funicular from Lugano in around 15 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the entire Lake Lugano and the surrounding Alps. For hiking enthusiasts, there are numerous well-marked hiking trails, such as the Sentiero del Botto, which leads from Lugano to Gandria.

Around Lake Lugano

There are many attractive excursion destinations around Lake Lugano. Visit the picturesque town of Morcote, known for its picturesque alleyways and the beautiful Parco Scherrer, a botanical garden with exotic plants and a magnificent view of the lake. The fishing village of Gandria on the north side of the lake is also worth a visit. The Verzasca Valley with the impressive Ponte dei Salti is also nearby. 

Experience Lake Lugano for less

Lake Lugano can be experienced particularly cheaply with the Ticino Ticket. With this ticket, you can travel free of charge on buses and trains throughout the region. You also benefit from discounts on boat trips as well as reduced admission to many museums and attractions. 

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Lake Lugano
Ticino
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Impressions

Experiences & Activities

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  • Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola 5 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola
  • Villa Sassa 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino Villa Sassa
  • VILLA PRINCIPE LEOPOLDO 5 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino VILLA PRINCIPE LEOPOLDO
  • Hotel Delfino 3 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino Hotel Delfino
  • Dolceresio Lugano Lake B&B

    Brusino Arsizio, Ticino

    Learn more about: Brusino Arsizio, Ticino Dolceresio Lugano Lake B&B
  • Hotel Splendide Royal 5 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino Hotel Splendide Royal
  • Seehotel Riviera 3 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Melide, Ticino

    Learn more about: Melide, Ticino Seehotel Riviera
  • Hotel Colorado 3 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino Hotel Colorado
  • Hotel Villa Carona 3 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Carona, Ticino

    Learn more about: Carona, Ticino Hotel Villa Carona
  • LUGANODANTE Boutique & Lifestyle Hotel 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino LUGANODANTE Boutique & Lifestyle Hotel
  • Capolago Monte Generoso cog railroad ticket

    Climb the Monte Generoso in Ticino on the cog railroad. Enjoy a 360° panorama and visit the famous... from CHF 36
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    valid: 29.04.2026 - 28.10.2026

    Learn more about Monte Generoso cog railroad ticket
  • Lugano The SUIT Travel Experiences

    Our premium services guarantee maximum comfort, privacy, and amusement. On the one hand, our... from CHF 350
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    valid: 29.04.2026 - 11.09.2027

    Learn more about The SUIT Travel Experiences
  • Melide Swissminiatur: Entry Ticket

    * Entrance to Swissminiatur miniature world from CHF 23.90
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    valid: 29.04.2026 - 26.07.2026

    Learn more about Swissminiatur: Entry Ticket
  • Lugano Lugano Private Walking Tour with a Local

    Insider insights into the city’s culture and hidden gemsFlexible itineraryPrivate guided walking... from CHF 38
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  • Lugano Lugano Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide

    Hotel pickup and drop-offWalking tour (fully customizable and private)Local tour guide (Swiss or... from CHF 96
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    Learn more about Lugano Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
  • Lugano Private Transfer Service from Zurich to Lugano

    Private transportationHotel drop-offOn-board WiFiBottled waterIn-vehicle air conditioningAirport... from CHF 808
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Travel information: Lake Lugano