Your adventure begins with a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Zurich Train Station, where you’ll board a scenic train bound for Lugano. As you travel through Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes, enjoy the picturesque views of mountains, lakes, and charming villages.
Upon arrival in Lugano, our professional local guide will welcome you and lead a fascinating city tour. Explore Lugano’s historic center, stroll along the lakeside promenade, and learn about the city’s architecture, culture, and history. The guide will share interesting stories and point out significant landmarks, ensuring a memorable experience.
During the tour, you’ll visit Lake Lugano, the city’s stunning centerpiece. This glacial lake offers opportunities for boat tours, lakeside walks, and breathtaking views. You’ll experience Lugano from the water and catch a glimpse of the grand villas once owned by European aristocracy.
Another highlight is Villa Ciani, an elegant 19th-century villa surrounded by lush gardens, often hosting art exhibitions and cultural events.
Your journey will continue with a visit to Parco Ciani, Lugano’s largest and most picturesque park, located along the shores of Lake Lugano.
Our city tour features a guided exploration through the narrow, charming streets of Lugano’s historic old town.
You’ll stop at Piazza della Riforma, the main square, surrounded by colorful, historic buildings, lively cafés, and restaurants. This bustling area, with its outdoor bars and eateries, brings a taste of the “dolce vita” to Switzerland. The scenic backdrop of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains enhances the beauty of the city, the largest in Italian-speaking Switzerland.
Your guide will also lead you to the LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura cultural center, home to art exhibitions, theater performances, concerts, and more.
You’ll then visit Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angioli, a beautiful Renaissance church famous for its stunning fresco by Bernardino Luini, a disciple of Leonardo da Vinci. This fresco is considered one of the most important Renaissance artworks in Switzerland.
Next, you’ll explore Via Nassa, Lugano’s premier shopping street, where boutiques, jewelers, and luxury fashion stores line the streets.
For literary enthusiasts, the tour offers the opportunity to visit the Hermann Hesse Museum in Montagnola, just outside Lugano. This museum is dedicated to the life and work of the renowned writer Hermann Hesse, who lived in the area for many years.
For those seeking a more immersive adventure, we offer optional visits to two of Lugano’s most famous peaks: Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè.
You will ascend Monte San Salvatore via the funicular for stunning panoramic views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding Alps.
Choosing the other experience you will ride the funicular to the top of Monte Brè, renowned for offering some of the most spectacular views of Lugano and the distant mountains—a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
After sightseeing, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant . Take the chance to savor the flavors of Swiss-Italian cuisine while enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
At the end of the day, you will return to Lugano Train Station for a relaxing train ride back to Zurich. As you reflect on your unforgettable day, you’ll be surrounded by Switzerland’s captivating scenery. Upon arriving at Zurich train station, our driver will be there to greet you and safely take you back to your hotel.
Upon request, we also offer the excursion in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which will take you directly to Lugano, allowing you to enjoy a delightful day trip before returning to Zurich in comfort.
Whether you’re passionate about nature, fascinated by history, or a fan of fine cuisine—this trip has something unique to offer. We’re excited to help create a memorable experience in Lugano for you and look forward to having you join us on future journeys.