Ticino

Lugano, Winter Panorama Regions

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Intro

Ticino is the sunniest region in Switzerland. With its beautiful landscapes, mountains, palm trees, lakes and many charming towns and villages, there are plenty of reasons why the southernmost canton of Switzerland is one of the most popular destinations for holidays and excursions.

Ticino at a glance

This is Ticino

Ticino is located in the south of Switzerland and borders Italy. Ticino is known for its mild climate and Mediterranean ambience.

Discover Ticino

Bellinzona, LocarnoLugano or Mendrisio will reveal Ticino’s unique flair. There is so much to see, so much natural beauty and plenty of Italianità. The same goes for places like Ascona or the nearby Brissago Islands with their botanical gardens. Gandria or Morcote on the shores of Lake Lugano are sure to enchant you with their idyllic charm. And the Mendrisiotto region in the south of Ticino delights with its rolling hills, vineyards and picturesque villages.

The valleys of Ticino

As well as sun and Mediterranean lifestyle, Ticino is known for its valleys, among them the picturesque Verzasca Valley with the world-famous Ponte dei Salti Roman bridge. You can also marvel at the Verzasca Dam, made famous by the James Bond film “GoldenEye”. The Maggia Valley is home to numerous hiking trails that pass small, authentic Ticino villages. The Blenio Valley is popular for bike tours and its local specialties. In the Muggio Valley, the southernmost valley of Switzerland, you’ll find unspoiled landscapes and traditional villages.

Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano

The two lakes Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano are emblematic of Ticino’s natural beauty and the many leisure activities in and on the water. Whether you choose a leisurely boat trip, activities such as sailing, bathing or windsurfing, the lakes stand for quality of life. If you hike on one of the surrounding mountains – Cardada-Cimetta, Monte Verità, Monte San Salvatore, Monte Brè or Monte Generoso – you can be sure of a fantastic view of the lakes.

In and around Ticino

It takes about one and a half hours to reach the Uri holiday resort of Andermatt from Bellinzona. Also from Bellinzona, you can cross the San Bernardino Pass, passing the town of San Bernardino, to Mesocco with its historic buildings. The drive over the Nufenen Pass is a highlight in the summer months, when you can experience that pure alpine feeling. Last but not least, you can enjoy fantastic views of the region on a drive over the Gotthard Pass.

Experience Ticino for less

The Ticino Ticket lets you enjoy many discounts as you explore Ticino. In addition, you can travel free of charge on public transport. You will receive the ticket when you spend the night in one of Ticino’s hotels, youth hostels or camping sites.

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Impressions

Experiences & Activities

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  • Castello del Sole Beach Resort & SPA 5 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Ascona, Ticino

    Learn more about: Ascona, Ticino Castello del Sole Beach Resort & SPA
  • Villa Sassa 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino Villa Sassa
  • Reka-Ferienanlage Magadino 3 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Magadino, Ticino

    Learn more about: Magadino, Ticino Reka-Ferienanlage Magadino
  • Hotel & Spa Cacciatori 4 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Cademario, Ticino

    Learn more about: Cademario, Ticino Hotel & Spa Cacciatori
  • Bellinzona Youth Hostel

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Bellinzona, Ticino

    Learn more about: Bellinzona, Ticino Bellinzona Youth Hostel
  • Relais Castello di Morcote l Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Vico Morcote, Lugano and surrounding

    Learn more about: Vico Morcote, Lugano and surrounding Relais Castello di Morcote
  • Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola 5 Stars

    Recommended by Switzerland Tourism

    Lugano, Ticino

    Learn more about: Lugano, Ticino Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola
  • Malvaglia Beginner canyon of Malvaglia in Ticino

    Despite its location a little further north, next to Pontirone, Malvaglia is one of the Ticino... from CHF 154.93
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    Learn more about Beginner canyon of Malvaglia in Ticino
  • Lodrino Canyoning of Lodrino in Ticino

    Lodrino is THE CANYON. The best canyoning Ticino has to offer. It's massive, dark, and deep,... from CHF 367.36
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    Learn more about Canyoning of Lodrino in Ticino
  • Lugano Explore Lugano in 1 hour with a local

    Discover Lugano during a short but sweet excursion during which you will learn the most intriguing... from CHF 66
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    Learn more about Explore Lugano in 1 hour with a local
  • Ascona Boat trip Ascona - Brissago ticket

    Discover Lake Maggiore between Ascona and Brissago with this route ticket. With this ticket you can... from CHF 12.20
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    valid: 24.01.2026 - 25.01.2026

    Learn more about Boat trip Ascona - Brissago ticket
  • Balerna Bike&Wine Generoso

    - Expert guide.- Bicycle with helmet.- Ride up with the rack railway to the San Nicolao stop.- Visit... from CHF 130
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    Learn more about Bike&Wine Generoso
  • Rivera Monte Tamaro rope park incl. train ticket

    Climb between obstacles and trees through the rope park on Monte Tamaro. Three different courses... from CHF 14
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    valid: 01.04.2026 - 31.12.2026

    Learn more about Monte Tamaro rope park incl. train ticket

Travel information: Ticino