Ticino
When you think of Switzerland, your mind probably wanders to alpine landscapes, snowy peaks, and world-class chocolate. But in the South of the country, you’ll find a different side to Swiss life — one that feels like a delightful detour straight into Italy. Welcome to Ticino, the sun-kissed, pizza-shaped slice of Switzerland where the language is Italian, and the vibe is Mediterranean. Here Swiss efficiency, cleanliness, and safety meet Italy’s warmth, charm, and zest for life.
The Charm of the Lakeside
Ticino is a land where the line between Italy and Switzerland blurs, especially along its picturesque lakeside resorts. Lugano, Locarno, and Ascona, all nestled along the shimmering shores of Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore, offer a taste of “la dolce vita” against a Swiss backdrop.
Lugano, the largest city in the canton, is a sophisticated retreat where you can sip an espresso at a chic lakeside café, explore cobblestone streets, and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. Palm trees sway gently in the warm breeze, while locals and tourists alike indulge in the dolce far niente — the sweetness of doing nothing. With its gorgeous parks, such as Parco Ciani, and its stylish boutiques, Lugano offers a blend of relaxation and cosmopolitan charm.
From Lugano you can take the boat or bus to Morcote or Gandria, two of the most beautiful villages you have ever encountered. Morcote, with its steep streets and hilltop Church of Santa Maria del Sasso, feels like a storybook come to life, while Gandria’s charming alleys and lakeside views offer a peaceful escape where time seems to slow down.
At Lake Maggiore, Locarno boasts Switzerland’s sunniest climate and is home to the prestigious Locarno Film Festival, where stars gather to celebrate the best in international cinema. Its lakeside promenade and charming Old Town make it the perfect spot to unwind.
Just a short boat ride away, the stunning Brissago Islands await, where you can wander through lush botanical gardens filled with exotic plants and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding lake.
Ascona, often regarded as the jewel of Lake Maggiore, is a haven for artists and those seeking tranquility. With its pastel-colored houses reflecting in the water, Ascona feels like a hidden gem plucked straight from the Italian Riviera. The town’s relaxed atmosphere is ideal for strolling along the promenade, discovering art galleries, or enjoying an al fresco meal with lake views.
The Wild Heart of Ticino
While the lakeside towns are a big draw, the true heart of Ticino beats in its wild, rugged valleys — places where nature takes center stage and outdoor adventure awaits.
The Verzasca Valley is famous for its emerald-green river, so clear and pristine that you’ll want to dive in (and many do). The Verzasca Dam, made famous by the James Bond movie “GoldenEye,” offers thrill-seekers a chance to bungee jump off its towering height. But if you’re after something more low-key, a hike along the valley’s stone villages, ancient bridges, and postcard-perfect waterfalls will leave you enchanted.
For those looking to escape deeper into nature, the Maggia Valley is another treasure trove of natural beauty. It’s a paradise for hikers, with trails that lead through verdant forests, across wildflower meadows, and up to panoramic viewpoints. The valley’s charm lies in its rustic mountain villages, where time seems to have stood still. Stone cottages, narrow alleys, and quiet churches all add to the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time.
Then there’s the Onsernone Valley, a remote and untamed corner of Ticino. This valley feels like a well-kept secret, a place where poets and dreamers find inspiration. With its terraced hillsides, chestnut forests, and dramatic mountain scenery, Onsernone is perfect for those seeking solitude and serenity.
Conquer the Peaks: Ticino’s Ultimate Mountain Escapes
For those who crave adventure, Ticino also boasts breathtaking mountain excursions. Take the funicular to Monte Brè for panoramic views of Lugano and the surrounding lakes, or hike up Monte San Salvatore for a stunning 360-degree vista of the region. Monte Tamaro offers a thrilling day with its adventure park and impressive toboggan run, while Cardada provides excellent hiking trails and views over Lake Maggiore. Don’t miss the stunning Monte Generoso, where the iconic viaduct and its observation tower provide breathtaking vistas.
Bellinzona: A Step Back in Time
No visit to Ticino would be complete without stopping in its capital, Bellinzona, a town that feels like a journey back to the Middle Ages. Bellinzona is home to three majestic castles — Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro — which have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These castles, perched high on hills and connected by ancient walls, once guarded the entrance to the Alps and offer a fascinating glimpse into Ticino’s strategic importance in medieval Europe.
Wander through Bellinzona’s old town, and you’ll be greeted by colorful markets, narrow streets, and historic buildings that make it one of the most charming capitals in Switzerland. The castles themselves are open for exploration, and from the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding valley.
