BEST TICINO ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT
Ticino, a small canton located in the southern part of Switzerland, is an amazing destination in Switzerland. With its stunning landscape of mountains and lakes, beautiful cities with their own unique culture and architecture, delicious cuisine, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy year-round, Ticino offers something for everyone.
The warm Mediterranean climate makes it perfect for relaxing strolls along the lakefront or leisurely hikes in the mountains. There are also plenty of charming towns and villages to explore, offering visitors a glimpse into Swiss culture and history. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting adventure, Ticino has something to offer. So if you’re looking for a unique getaway that’s a little bit off the beaten path, look no further than Ticino!
WHERE TO GO & WHAT TO SEE IN TICINO
Here are my top 20 places to visit and travel tips for your next trip:
LOCARNO
Locarno is a beautiful lakeside town situated at an altitude of 495 meters (1,624 feet) above sea level. With its stunning scenery, charming old-town atmosphere, and Mediterranean climate, it’s no wonder Locarno attracts visitors from all around the world.
Whether you’re looking for cultural attractions, outdoor activities or just a peaceful place to relax, Locarno has it. The city is home to churches and monuments that tell stories of its long history, as well as plenty of parks and gardens where visitors can take in views of the lake and mountains. Popular activities include taking boat tours of the Lago Maggiore or visiting the picturesque Castello Visconteo.
With its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, it’s no wonder Locarno is one of Ticino’s most popular destinations.
LUGANO
Lugano is the biggest city in Ticino, located at an altitude of 454 meters (1,490 feet) above sea level. It is nestled in between Lake Lugano and the pre-Alps and offers stunning views of both.
With its Mediterranean climate, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful lakefront promenade, Lugano is the ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. The city is also home to some of Switzerland’s finest museums and galleries, including the Museo Cantonale d’Arte (MCA) which houses works by local and international artists.
Visitors can explore the old town with its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, or take a boat tour to explore the lake. Lugano is also a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and sailing.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or a peaceful retreat in nature, Lugano has something for everyone!
BELLINZONA
Bellinzona is the capital of Ticino, situated at an altitude of 424 meters (1,391 feet) above sea level. It is famous for its three majestic castles: Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro.
These fortified structures are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, built by the Swiss in the medieval period as a defense against their enemies. Visitors can explore each of these iconic castles and learn about their history and architecture while taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Bellinzona also offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, biking, and sailing. For those looking to sample authentic local cuisine, there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Swiss dishes.
With its impressive fortifications, magnificent scenery, and rich culture, Bellinzona is a must-visit destination in Ticino!
LAVERTEZZO IN VALLE VERZASCA
Lavertezzo is a village located in the Valle Verzasca, in Ticino. Situated at an altitude of 721 meters (2,368 feet) above sea level, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The highlight of Lavertezzo is its magnificent double-arched bridge which stands proudly over the clear waters of the Verzasca River. The village is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and canyoning. Visitors can also explore the picturesque stone houses which line its streets and admire beautiful churches, including the San Vittore church with its Romanesque frescoes.
With its stunning natural beauty, fascinating culture, and a list of activities, Lavertezzo is a must-see in Ticino!
CENTOVALLI
Centovalli is a picturesque region located in the canton of Ticino and lying between Lake Maggiore and Italy. Situated at an altitude of 457 meters (1,500 feet) above sea level, it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
From hiking and biking to rafting and canyoning, there’s something here for everyone. Visitors can also explore the area’s numerous villages and towns, each with its own unique character. The highlight of Centovalli is undoubtedly the iconic Centovalli Train which takes passengers on a spectacular journey through the region’s stunning valleys and mountains.
With its picturesque beauty and fascinating culture Centovalli is one of the best places to visit in Ticino!
VALLE MAGGIA
Valle Maggia is a valley situated at an altitude of 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding Alpine landscape and its beautiful villages, each with its own unique character.
Visitors can explore these charming towns, take a cable car up to nearby Monte Tamaro for breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore, or go on hikes in the area’s lush forests and meadows. In addition, Valle Maggia offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, such as mountain biking, canyoning, and white-water rafting.
Valle Maggia is one of the most beautiful places in Ticino!
GANDRIA
Gandria is a picturesque village situated at an altitude of 400 meters (1,300 feet) above sea level. It is known for its stunning views of Lake Lugano and its unique combination of Italian charm and Swiss efficiency.
Visitors can explore Gandria’s cobbled streets lined with colorful houses, enjoy a coffee or gelato at one of the village’s cafes, and take in the breathtaking views from its 14th-century castle.
Gandria is also a great place for outdoor activities such as kayaking and motorboat trips on Lake Lugano, hikes in the surrounding forests, and mountain biking along the nearby mountain trails. With its stunning beauty and array of activities, Gandria is an unforgettable destination in Ticino!
Visitors can also explore the nearby villages of Carona and Castagnola for additional attractions and activities.
With its picturesque beauty, fascinating history, and plenty of things to see and do, Gandria is a must-visit destination in Ticino!
MORCOTE
Morcote is one of the most beautiful villages in all of Switzerland – let alone in Ticino, situated at an altitude of 400 meters (1,300 feet) above sea level. It is known for its stunning views of Lake Lugano and its unique combination of Italian charm and Swiss efficiency.
Visitors can explore Morcote’s cobbled streets lined with colorful houses and take in the breathtaking views from its 13th-century castle.
Morcote is also a great place for outdoor activities such as kayaking and motorboat trips on Lake Lugano, hikes in the surrounding forests, and mountain biking along the nearby mountain trails. With its stunning beauty and array of activities, Morcote is an unforgettable destination in Ticino! Visitors can also explore the nearby villages of Brusino Arsizio and Melide for additional attractions and activities.
With its picturesque beauty, fascinating history, and plenty of things to see and do, Morcote is a must-visit destination in Ticino!
MONTE BRE
Monte Bre is a mountain situated at an altitude of 1,721 meters (5,642 feet) above sea level. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys.
Visitors can take a cable car up to the summit for an incredible panoramic view or hike along its trails in summer. In winter, Monte Bre is also a great place for skiing and snowboarding. With its breathtaking beauty and array of activities, Monte Bre is a must-visit destination in Ticino!
Monte Bre also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, open-air theater performances, and even a medieval festival. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages of Brè and Carona for additional attractions and activities.
LAKE LUGANO
Lake Lugano is a stunning lake located in the canton of Ticino, situated at an altitude of 194 meters (636 feet) above sea level. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and villages, and its crystal clear waters offer perfect conditions for swimming and other water activities.
Visitors can enjoy boat trips on the lake, kayaking and motorboat tours, and other recreational activities. Lake Lugano is also home to numerous attractions, including the Swissminiatur amusement park, the Sasso San Gottardo Nature Reserve and many historic churches and castles.
With its breathtaking beauty and array of attractions, Lake Lugano is an unforgettable destination in Ticino!
CARDADA
Cardada is situated at an altitude of 1,219 meters (3,999 feet) above sea level. Visitors can take a cable car or hike up to the summit to enjoy the breathtaking views. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore its beautiful landscape.
Visitors can explore Cardada’s unique environment with a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and skiing in the winter. Those seeking an adrenaline rush can try paragliding or rock climbing on the nearby cliffs.
With the breathtaking views it offers, Cardada is one of the best places to go in Ticino!
MADONNA DEL SADDO IN ORSELINA
Madonna del Sasso in Orselina is a pilgrimage site located in the canton of Ticino, situated at an altitude of 398 meters (1,305 feet) above sea level. It is one of the most visited religious sites dedicated to the Virgin Mary and offers stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains.
Visitors can explore the historic church and its spectacularly decorated interior. With its breathtaking beauty and rich religious history, Madonna del Sasso is an unforgettable destination in Ticino!
LAKE MAGGIORE
Lake Maggiore is a stunning lake situated at an altitude of 193 meters (633 feet) above sea level. It offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and villages, as well as crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and other water activities.
Visitors can enjoy boat trips on the lake, kayaking and motorboat tours, and other recreational activities.
To admit, it is not my favorite lake in Ticino – that would be Lake Lugano – but Lake Maggiore is a great place to see in Ticino!
ASCONA
Ascona is a municipality located in the canton of Ticino, situated at an altitude of 193 meters (633 feet) above sea level. It offers visitors breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. Ascona is known for its beautiful Mediterranean climate, stunning natural landscape, and vibrant cultural life.
Visitors can explore Ascona’s unique environment with a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, beach volleyball, and water sports on the lake. The town is home to many attractions including the Church of San Pietro, the local museum, and several art galleries.
With its breathtaking beauty and array of activities, Ascona is an must-see destination in Ticino!
MONTE SAN SALVATORE
Monte San Salvatore is a mountain located in the canton of Ticino, situated at an altitude of 912 meters (2,992 feet) above sea level. It offers breathtaking views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a cable car up to the summit to enjoy spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding villages.
Monte San Salvatore offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore its beautiful landscape, with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. Visitors can also visit the historic Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli located at the summit or take a walking tour through the old town.
Monte San Salvatore is one of the most beautiful spots in Ticino!
SONOGNO AND FRODA WATERFALLS
Sonogno and Froda Waterfalls are two stunning waterfalls located in the canton of Ticino, situated at an altitude of 700 meters (2,297 feet) above sea level. They offer visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The falls are a popular destination for hikers, offering spectacular views of the falls and a unique natural experience. Visitors can explore the area by taking a hike to either waterfall and enjoying the stunning scenery. Alternatively, visitors can take a boat ride up the river to enjoy beautiful views of both waterfalls.
Sonogno and Froda Waterfalls are a must-see in Ticino, even though it is quoite remote – but it will be worth it.
CASCATA PIUMOGNA / FAIDO
Cascata Piumogna is a stunning waterfall, situated at an altitude of 700 meters (2,297 feet) above sea level. It offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests. The waterfall has a height of around 30 meters (100 feet) and a width of 10 meters (33 feet).
Visitors can explore the area by taking a hike up to the waterfall – the views from the top are spectacular, with stunning views of both cascading waterfalls.
Cascata Piumogna is a gorgeous place to visit in Ticino and it is also easily accessible as the train station is close by.
BRISSAGO ISLAND
Brissago Island is an enchanting island located in the canton of Ticino, situated at an altitude of 45 meters (148 feet) above sea level. It offers visitors stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. The island is home to a beautiful botanical garden, featuring rare plants, trees, and flowers. Visitors can also explore the historic villa, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and objects.
Brissago Island offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore its beautiful landscape, with activities such as hiking, biking and swimming. Visitors can also take a boat ride around the island to enjoy stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding countryside.
Whether it’s strolling around the botanical gardens, swimming in the clear waters of Lake Maggiore, or exploring the villa and its rare artifacts, Brissago Island is an unforgettable destination.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR TICINO
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, as hiking is one of the best ways to explore the region.
- Learn some Italian phrases before you go – the locals generally speak Swiss Italian rather than standard Italian.
- Visit in spring or fall when temperatures are milder and crowds tend to be thinner. Summer can be really hot here at the Italian border. My favorite season to visit Ticino is actually the spring!
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection – temperatures can reach 30°C or more during the summer months!
- Make sure to buy travel insurance before your trip – you never know what might happen!
- Reserve your tickets online for attractions such as cable car rides and boat trips ahead of time.
- Most restaurants are closed on Mondays, so plan your meals accordingly.
- Take out cash from ATMs instead of using credit cards – many establishments don’t accept them.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON WHERE TO GO IN TICINO
Ticino, Switzerland is a stunningly beautiful place to visit and has no shortage of amazing places to explore. From the romantic charm of Ascona to the natural beauty of Valle Verzasca, there are plenty of exciting places that you won’t want to miss out on. The unique culture, cuisine, and atmosphere make it a wonderful place for a getaway.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or cozy cafés, there’s something for everyone in Ticino. Just don’t forget to pack your camera – all these sights are just begging to be photographed! Above all else, try to take in each moment with gratitude and soak up every bit of Ticino’s beauty. Who knows? Maybe you’ll leave with some incredible new memories. Happy exploring!