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Things to do in
Lugano

Our most recommended things to do in Lugano

From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Exclusive Boat Cruise

1. From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Exclusive Boat Cruise

Immerse yourself in the best of Swiss and Italian culture on this full-day tour. Departing from Milan, enjoy an informative commentary on the historical landmarks and the spectacular landscape along the way. Reach the Swiss town of Lugano where you will have some free time to visit the city center and taste some Swiss Chocolate. Head to the small village of Cadenabbia, where both Queen Victoria of England and Zar Nicholas of Russia were frequent visitors, and then the group will reach the village of Tremezzo. From there begins our Exclusive Cruise aboard a private boat to reach Bellagio, also known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”. During this cruise you have to chance to see this lake Como from a different perspective, take your time to look around and see the harmony between nature and architecture. Glide past villas with their beauteous gardens and amongst untouched nature Once in Bellagio enjoy some free time to soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this idyllic and relaxing place and to have lunch, before to Cruise back to Tremezzo Your last stop will be the picturesque and ever-popular city of Como. Enjoy a walking tour of the city and reach the gothic cathedral, accompanied by a professional tour leader who will help you to discover the art and history of this charming city.

Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat

2. Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat

The Swiss Travel Pass is a must-have for any traveler to Switzerland. You can enjoy unlimited access by public train, bus, and boat to over 90 cities and towns and benefit from free entrance to 500+ museums, discounted city tours, and access to private and scenic trains with a pre-requisite seat reservation. There are two broad types of Swiss Travel Pass: Continuous and Flexi, with an option to choose from 3, 4, 8, and 15 days. Apart from it being an ‘all-in-one’ pass which allows a traveler to access all modes of public transportation within the country, it also offers numerous other benefits on the mountain excursions. Trips up to Stoos, Brunni, Klewenalp, Stanserhorn and Rigi are included in the Pass. A 50% reduction is offered on most other mountain and cableways (Gornergrat, Titlis, etc). Enjoy free entrance to museums like the the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich, the National History Museum of Bern, the Paul Klee Center in Bern, and the Natural history museum in Geneva. Explore with access to the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Château de Chillon, and the Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum. So be it the adventurous, the avid or the leisure traveler, you will have the chance to make the most of your Switzerland Travel Pass.

Milan: Lake Como and Lugano Day Trip with Private Cruise

3. Milan: Lake Como and Lugano Day Trip with Private Cruise

Embark on a tranquil escape from the urban hustle of Milan, journeying through the serene countryside of northern Italy and southern Switzerland in the comfort of an air-conditioned coach. Begin your day with a private boat cruise on Lake Como towards the enchanting town of Bellagio. Revel in the scenic beauty of the Alpine views and the charming lakeside villas during this leisurely cruise. Upon reaching Bellagio, the "Pearl of Lake Como," enjoy ample free time to explore the town, indulge in shopping, or savor local delicacies at nostalgic bars and restaurants. Following your time in Bellagio, venture into Switzerland and arrive in Lugano, a city renowned for its breathtaking panoramas and excellent shopping opportunities. If you are inclined towards artistic culture, take a leisurely walk to the Chiesa di Santa Maria di Loreto church. For a dose of retail therapy, explore the beautiful downtown shopping area filled with inviting shops, Swiss chocolates, and luxury goods. After a fulfilling day in both Bellagio and Lugano, your journey concludes as you head back to Milan by coach, providing you with ample time to reminisce about the day's adventures and enjoy a well-deserved dinner in the city center.

From Como: Lugano and Bellagio with Enchanting Boat Cruise

4. From Como: Lugano and Bellagio with Enchanting Boat Cruise

Explore the beautiful lakes and villages of Switzerland and Italy from Como with a tour leader. Marvel at the small village of Cadenabbia, enjoy a cruise from Bellagio and soak in the panoramic views of Lake Como on a full-day tour. Firstly begins our Enchanting Cruise aboard a public feature boat to reach Bellagio, also known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”. During this cruise you have to chance to see this lake Como from a different perspective, take your time to look around and see the harmony between nature and architecture. The cruise offers a unique perspective on the charming lakeside towns, lush gardens, and elegant villas that line the shores. As you glide through the lake, you can relax on deck, soak in the sun, and take in the breathtaking scenery. Once in Bellagio enjoy some free time to soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this idyllic and relaxing place and to have lunch. The next stop will be the small village of Cadenabbia, where both Queen Victoria of England and Zar Nicholas of Russia were frequent visitors. After departing from there, travel in a comfortable coach to the Swiss town of Lugano where you will have some free time to visit the picturesque city center and taste some Swiss Chocolate.

From Milan: Lake Como, Swiss Alps & Lugano Small Group Tour

5. From Milan: Lake Como, Swiss Alps & Lugano Small Group Tour

Jump on the Swiss Express train in Milan and discover the magical atmosphere of Lake Como, the Swiss Alps, and Lake Lugano in just one day without worrying about traffic jams. Your experienced, English-speaking guide will share their extensive knowledge about the areas you visit. Discover why actors and celebrities frequent Lake Como during the summer. See the famous Lake Como villas from the movie "Ocean's Twelve" and luxury wedding venues that attract world superstars. Learn about the history of the Como Lake region dating back to the Roman Empire from an experienced, English-speaking guide. See monuments dedicated to historical celebrities from Como. Admire the majestic beauty of the Swiss Alps. Enjoy the picturesque town of Lugano, located on the Swiss Riviera, with its beautiful lake and charming Swiss atmosphere. Try the taste of the world's best chocolate from Switzerland.

From Como: Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Private Boat Cruise

6. From Como: Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Private Boat Cruise

Let yourself be enchanted by a wonderful panorama as you visit two countries and two lakes during this day trip experience from Como to Lugano, Cadenabbia, and Bellagio. Enjoy informative commentary and a cruise on Lake Como. Take a bus from Como and, after about a 1-hour drive, reach Lugano. Enjoy free time to visit the delightful city center and enjoy a romantic walk on the lake's shore. Transfer by bus to Cadenabbia, a small village on Lake Como’s shore and a popular holiday destination for many aristocrats such as Queen Victoria of England and Zar Nicholas of Russia. From Cadenabbia, board a cruise to reach Bellagio, also known as the "Pearl of Lake Como". Spend some free time in this picturesque village. Later, marvel at the amazing landscape from the water as you take another boat ride on the lake. Admire the fascinating villas with their wonderful gardens as you head back to Como.

From Milan: Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Lake Boat Cruise

7. From Milan: Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Lake Boat Cruise

Enjoy a full-day trip to Lake Como, Lugano, and Bellagio. Discover the best of Italy and Switzerland on this guided tour. Discover two countries in one day on a scenic day trip from Milan. Admire panoramic views of Lake Como and stroll around its medieval streets. Take a boat trip to explore the charming shops of Bellagio and visit the beautiful town of Lugano in Switzerland. Jump aboard a bus in Milan and drive toward Lake Como. Wander around medieval alleys on a guided walking tour and see the old villas. Discover the art, history, and local traditions of the area before seeing the impressive Gothic Cathedral. After your break, begin your drive to the small village of Cadenabbia. Navigate the lake and reach Bellagio, where you can explore and shop at your own pace. After visiting Bellagio cruise back to Cadenabbia and hop back on the bus to make your way to Switzerland. Admire impressive views of The Alps and the stunning Lake Lugano as you drive by, then enjoy your free time in Lugano to walk around and explore. After an amazing day exploring two different countries ride the bus back to Milan.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex:All-in-One travel pass-train,bus,boat

8. Swiss Travel Pass Flex:All-in-One travel pass-train,bus,boat

Explore the beauty of Switzerland with a Swiss Travel Pass Flex available for 3, 4, 6, 8 and 15 flexible days within 1 month. The freely selectable travel days can be activated and changed on www.activateyourpass.com at any time. You will receive the login information by e-mail after your purchase. The pass offers hassle-free and unlimited travel throughout Switzerland on the Swiss Travel System, buses, and public boats as well as unlimited public transport in cities, discounts on many mountain excursions and free entrance to over 500 museums across the country on the validated days. You can use the pass on the panoramic routes however, seat reservations are mandatory. Children under 6 years old travel free. Children aged 6 and under 16 years when accompanied by at least one parent (holding Swiss Travel Pass) travel for free with the Swiss Family card.

From Milan: Private Boat to Como Lake, Lugano, and Bellagio

9. From Milan: Private Boat to Como Lake, Lugano, and Bellagio

Explore an exciting Milan getaway, discovering the the Swiss and Italian landscape and culture. Enjoy your guide’s tales of historical landmarks and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes unfolding during your journey. Arrive in the Swiss town of Lugano, take some free time to explore the city center and taste delicious Swiss chocolate. Reaching the dainty village of Cadenabbia , from there your journey unfolds, leading you to the enchanting destination of Bellagio. Upon reaching Bellagio, witness the charming atmosphere of this delightful destination known by “Pearl of Lake Como”. Walk through its famous stair alleys with its colorful houses, take some memorable pictures of the instgrammable village, and you enjoy your tasty lunch in the local restaurants of Bellagio. Then continue this tour with our Exclusive Cruise aboard a private boat, this cruise offers a unique perspective of Lake Como, allowing you to appreciate the harmonious blend of nature and architecture. Sail through the villas with their beautiful gardens and natural surroundings, such as Villa del Balbianello, renowned for its appearances in Star Wars and Casino Royale films and Villa Balbiano famous from House of Gucci. Your final stop is Como, where a guided walking tour will introduce you to the city's art and its medieval history while walking in the ancient square. It's a day of cultural exploration and scenic beauty you won't forget!

From Milan: Como, Lugano, Bellagio with Private Lake Cruise

10. From Milan: Como, Lugano, Bellagio with Private Lake Cruise

Starting off at Lake Como in Italy, you'll encounter the breathtaking beauty of the lake and its picturesque towns. Bellagio, known as the "Pearl of Lake Como," offers charming streets, stunning villas, and beautiful gardens. It's a perfect place to wander and soak in the serene atmosphere. We will meet at 8:16 am at Piazza Repubblica and depart by bus at 8:30 am towards Como. After about 1 hour of travel, we will reach our first destination. A walk through the city of Como awaits us, among its magnificent squares, historic alleys, and its lake, admiring the Cathedral, its antiquities, and the lake itself. We will then head towards Tremezzo, where a private boat awaits us for a cruise through the central lake, admiring the splendid lake landscapes and its historic villas such as Carlotta, Balbianello, Cassinella, and Melfi. We will disembark in Bellagio, where you will have approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of free time for lunch, to admire the particular alleys of the village, and to discover its panorama After Bellagio, our next stop will be Cadenabbia di Griante. In Cadenabbia, we'll board our bus and journey towards Lugano In this Swiss town, you'll have free time to explore its historic center, especially Via Nassa, the shopping street, the lakeside promenade, the Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli, and indulge in its delightful chocolate shops. From there, we will conclude our journey heading towards Milan

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Frequently asked questions about Lugano

What top attractions are a must-see in Lugano?

What are the best day trips and excursions from Lugano?

The best day trips and excursions from Lugano are:

Lake Como

Other Sightseeing Options in Lugano

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What people are saying about Lugano

Overall rating

4.7
(1,130 reviews)

FANTASTIC. we had a truly excellent time during this tour. Patricia, our guide, and Mario, our driver, were both amazing the entire time. From Come to Lugano, and Bellagio, this trip is something I'll remember forever! Patricia and Mario were also very kind and pleasant to talk with and ask questions to and they are very prompt!! Again, major KUDOS for them for going above and beyond. If you're visiting Milan I HIGHLY recommend this day trip and if possible have Mario and Patricia as your driver and guide. You won't regret it.

This was my first organized trip. A great day trip, although it lasted about 11 hours it wasn't strenuous at all. Great landscape impressions, the boat tour was particularly beautiful. Alice, our tour guide, was super nice and did her job very well. It was fun listening to her. The driver Mario drove very reliably. I would recommend this tour to anyone who enjoys nature and wants to do something varied: bus rides, boat tours, walks, shopping, all in a good mix.

So convenient to just board the train or the boat and go wherever you want. No need to line up to buy tickets. Enjoyed the ride to Lauterbrunnen, then up to Wengen. Likewise, Mt Rigi excursion was fantastic, included also in the pass.

The trip was great, Patricia was incredible guide and the driver Mario was amazing. The places were really worth to see it , just little more time in Lugano would be nicer, really 5 stars trip!!!

Everything incredible, totally worth it, wonderful guide Patrícia, recommended Seta restaurant in Bellagio incredible food