Locarno

Locarno is situated in the southern region of Switzerland and on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore. It boasts with 2300 hours of sunshine within a year and proudly holds the title of the warmest city in Switzerland.

There are numerous ways of discovering this charming city, where palm and lemon trees give the impression of a Mediterranean town.

Travel to Locarno is an incredible choice and a great experience. The old city will charm you with its fine castles dating back to the early Middle Ages. Locarno is also proud of its extraordinary nature spots.

The Old Town has an extensive arcade, lots of restaurants and cafes, shops and little stores to wander around. You will taste some Italian pizza, pasta or have the opportunity to choose from the variety of delicious Italian gelato ice cream flavours.

This tranquil city offers a very special stroll along the waterfront, where the area is free of cars. The lakeside is a broad area for a pedestrian promenade in a relaxing atmosphere. The area is surrounded by a magnificent view of the mountains and botanical gardens bristling with subtropical enchanting flowers. All this beauty is offered on the major site of Brissago Island.

In the heart of Locarno is the Camellia Park, which contains over 900 species of flowers. You can take an electric bike trip to enjoy the eco-friendly environment.

When you visit Locarno, the must-see masterpiece is the Piazza Grande - the central part of the city. It is located beyond the lake, which can easily be accessed from the Old Town, as all the narrow lanes from there will lead you right to Piazza Grande.

The crowded square is full of attractive old houses and shopping places. In the summer, it hosts famous music and film festivals. The festivals in Locarno are cosmopolitan and celebrated internationally, especially the International Film Festival, which is the biggest cultural event in Switzerland and one of the most important ones in the whole of Europe, hosts open-air films throughout the week.

Another option is to hike to the Sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso, which is situated above the city. It is believed that the building is located at the very place where the Virgin Mary appeared to Brother Bartholomeo da Ivrea.

The hidden reason for becoming Locarno a well-known resort was the "Locarno Treaty," which was signed by a number of European governments to guarantee a system of safety for Western Europe.

Book your private trip to Locarno with AlpExcursion in order to enjoy this peaceful side of Switzerland. We will advise you on the best things to do in Locarno.

Below you can find tourist sightseeing that should be visited during your stay in Locarno:

• Visconteo Castle – A Municipal and Archaeological Museum.
• Casa Serodine – The science museum in Ascona.
• Pinacoteca Comunale Casa Rusca Museum.