Lugano

Photo of Lugano
Photo of Lugano
Credit: Flickr user Patrick Nouhailler
Photo of Lugano
Credit: Flickr user Elliot Brown
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About Lugano

Lugano is on the long, narrow, winding shore of Lake Lugano, and shares the wonderfully temperate micro-climate and stunning alpine setting of the Italian Lakes, despite being within Switzerland. The best places to stay in Lugano offer similarly stunning lake views and mountain backdrops and a similarly elegant city setting. Expect palm trees and picturesque boulevards below alpine hills and mountains. Many of the best places to stay in Lugano are definitely those closest to the lake, but if you’re looking for great value, peace and quite and spectacular mountain views then it’s certainly worth considering the properties up in the hills above the lake - especially between Lake Lugano and Lake Como. Lugano is only half an hour from Como or Varese, so it’s a great base for exploring not just Lake Lugano, but also the neighbouring lakes. You’re also only an hour and a half from Milan.

What Not To Miss

  • There’s plenty of do on Lake Lugano: from hiking Monte Brè on the eastern end - or take the funicular to the summit, strolling up Monte San Salvatore to the west,
  • Explore Monte San Giorgio, a wooded mountain best known for its wonderful oceanic fossils from the Triassic period - there’s a great little fossil museum.
  • The Herman Hess museum, has some of the thousands of watercolours he painted in this region, plus some of his books and personal effects. It’s unusual but popular.
  • The Parco Scherrer in Morcote is a wonderful park with a subtropical feel and some amazing architecture. There’s a great smuggling museum on Gandria, and Lugano also has Europe’s largest casino.
  • In Melide you can visit Swissminiatur, which has 1:25 scale models of around 120 of Switzerland’s best known attractions.

Don't forget to book well ahead if you want to reserve a room in one of the best places to stay in Lugano in July or August - it's very busy during the peak summer months. Alternatively plan your trip in the quieter autumn or spring months, when the weather is still warm, but the crowds are nowhere to be seen!

The Best Places to Stay in Lugano

The best places to stay in lugano for absolute luxury

  • Once a mansion belonging to Russian nobility, the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola is now a five star grand dame hotel in an incredibly beautiful setting. There are 78 rooms, each with their own unique character and traditionally luxurious decor, plus there’s a Michelin starred restaurant. Lakeside pampering amongst some of the most spectacular Lake Lugano scenery imaginable.
  • Villa Principe Leopoldo is set in the former palace of a prince, Villa Principe Leopoldo certainly retains its regal grandeur. With opulent rooms, a fantastic restaurant and a charming piano bar, it's a lavish affair. Luxuriate in the Kiso Spa and in the summer recline by the divine pool. An encapsulation of serenity.
  • For total opulence in stunning surroundings The View is a fabulous five-star hotel with a view fit for its emphatic title. The minimalist suites are sleek and cool with sharp contemporary design features and staggering vistas over the lake. Explore the shores of the lake by bicycle or complimentary e-cars. A tranquil oasis.

The best places to stay in central lugano

  • If you're looking for a central location with easy access to the surrounding countryside, Hotel Gabbani is a chic hotel, well placed in the centre of the city. The historic facade hides a strikingly modern interior. Smart rooms with white washed walls, crisp white linen, contemporary furniture and luxury bathrooms. A fine-dining restaurant serves exemplary regional cuisine.
  • For a contemporary hotel in the historic city of Lugano, Hotel City does not fail to impress. Wonderfully contrasting with its placing, revel in the chic white interiors dotted with vibrant colours. Unwind in the uber slick bar and return to stylish rooms bedecked with modern art. Within walking distance of many attractions.

The most romantic places to stay in lugano

  • The Hotel Villa Carona is an historic, family-friendly villa in the artist village of Ticino. The 200-year old building has original architectural features, from the vaulted ceiling in the dining room to the exposed beams in the bedrooms. Plush Persian rugs and dark wood furnishings complete this intimate countryside oasis.

The best places to stay close to lake lugano

  • For a hotel that can only be reached by boat, Elvezia al Lago is a traditional lakeside hotel with spectacular views. The cosy rooms boast antique artwork, floral motifs and little balconies. Evenings spent over candlelit dinners and days roaming around picturesque countryside. Total relaxation in charming accommodation.

Prefer an apartment or villa?

  • If you'd prefer your own space, don't hesitate to visit our online partner Booking.com for a variety of properties along the shores of the lakes.

Travel information

  • Fly to Lugano Airport, a small airport only 7km (4 miles) from the town with connections primarily to Zurich and Geneva. Catch a train to Lugano station with a range of train links incuding to Zurich, Milan and Geneva
  • If you'd prefer to rent a car to explore the various lakes and mountains around Lugano, for prices we recommend using our online partner Rentalcars
  • Best time to visit - March to October is the preferred time to visit Lugano although the summer months of May to September can produce high levels of rainfall.

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The best hotels in Lugano

Elvezia al Lago
Elvezia al Lago

Lugano

A traditional lakeside hotel with spectacular views. The cosy rooms boast antique artwork, floral motifs and little balconies. Evenings spent over candlelit dinners and days roaming around picturesque countryside. Total relaxation in charming accommodation.

  • Total relaxation - Right on the banks of Lake Lugano, and only accessible by boat, this is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up some views.
  • Great walks - Take a stroll along the lakeside promenade, the perfect way to start your day.
  • Local markets - Stroll down to the nearby village Gandria for some fresh fish.
  • Lakeside
from $178 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel City
Hotel City

Lugano

A very contemporary hotel in the historic city of Lugano. Wonderfully contrasting with its placing, revel in the chic white interiors dotted with vibrant colours. Unwind in the uber slick bar and return to stylish rooms bedecked with modern art. Within walking distance of many attractions. Fabulous.

  • Local exploring - Well located within walking distance of the lake and exhibition centre making this an ideal base for exploring the city.
  • Great walks - Take a picturesque stroll along the lakeshore or stretch yourself with Lugano's easy access to challenging alpine hiking trails.
  • Restaurant
from $195 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Gabbani
Hotel Gabbani

Lugano

A chic hotel, well placed, in the centre of the city. The historic facade unfurls a strikingly modern interior. Smart rooms with white washed walls, crisp white linen, contemporary furniture and luxury bathrooms. A fine-dining restaurant serves exemplary regional cuisine. Fabulous.

  • Local exploring - Centrally located yet with easy access to the surrounding countryside. The best of both worlds.
  • Great walks - Take a stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Lugano.
  • Sights nearby - View the stunning 15th century San Lorenzo Cathedral.
  • Sailing - Take a romantic boat ride across the lake.
from $205 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Hotel Villa Carona
Hotel Villa Carona

Lugano (Lugano)

A historic, family-friendly villa just outside Lugano. The 200-year old building has original architectural features, from the vaulted ceiling in the dining room to the exposed beams in the bedrooms. Plush Persian rugs and dark wood furnishings complete this intimate countryside oasis.

  • Romantic Break - The hotel décor, romantic village setting and great facilities (including a hot tub) make it a favourite with couples
  • Country Escape - Situated just above Lake Lugano, and with spectacular views of Monte Generoso, you can relax here in country style
  • Families - The villa has excellent family rooms and suites which can host families with up to four children
  • Sights nearby - Visit the sights of nearby Carona, from historic churches to the botanical garden and the Splash e Spa Tamaro waterpark
from $217 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms
Villa Principe Leopoldo
Villa Principe Leopoldo

Lugano

Set in the former palace of a prince, Villa Principe Leopoldo certainly retains its regal grandeur. With opulent rooms, a fantastic restaurant and a charming piano bar, it's a lavish affair. Luxuriate in the Kiso Spa and in the summer recline by the divine pool. An encapsulation of serenity.

  • Foodies - Restaurant Principe Leopoldo is considered one of the finest in the area, offering authentic and resposibly sourced cuisine.
  • Honeymoons - This lavish property, perched high over the lake offers a pampering spa, elegant suites and private Jacuzzis!
  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby historic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, dating back to the 9th century.
  • Spa
from $325 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms
Hotel Splendide Royal
Hotel Splendide Royal

Lugano

A Belle Epoque hotel on the shores of Lake Lugano. The decor is the epitome of classic elegance - think Murano chandeliers, frescoes and heavy draped curtains. The fine dining restaurant is a local favourite, and the rejuvenating spa is well-equipped. Tradition meets contemporary sophistication.

  • Great walks - Discover the picturesque Swiss landscapes with guided hiking tours, offering stunning vistas and invigorating outdoor adventure
  • Hotel boats for hire - Experience the tranquillity of Lake Lugano with a serene boat tour, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape
  • Total relaxation - Indulge in luxurious relaxation with bespoke treatments at the elegant spa, complete with a pool and serene views
  • Local exploring - Ideally located by Lake Lugano, this hotel offers easy access to cultural attractions and breathtaking lake views
from $463 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Swiss Diamond Hotel
Swiss Diamond Hotel

Lugano (Morcote)

Located on the shores of Lake Lugano, this refined hotel blends serene lakeside views with a soothing, oriental-inspired decor. Its three restaurants offer diverse dining experiences, while the spa and wellness centre provide total relaxation. Ideal for a peaceful escape, with a touch of luxury.

  • Spa breaks - A spa break here offers peaceful lake views, relaxing treatments, and a serene wellness centre to rejuvenate mind and body
  • Local exploring - Discover local wonders with free transport and unwind by the lake with gourmet dining and stunning panoramic views
  • Other Activities - Embark on a scenic boat tour of Lake Lugano, exploring charming lakeside villages and enjoying panoramic views
  • Great walks - Explore the nearby Parco Ciani, a lush green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics amidst nature
from $396 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola
Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola

Lugano

Five star luxury in the most breathtaking of surroundings. All the traditional and luxurious rooms have their own unique character, and views of the serene landscape. Feast on Michelin starred cuisine at the on site restaurant. Come here for serious lakeside pampering.

  • Romantic Break - A super chic hotel with luxurious rooms surrounded by beautiful sub tropical gardens- ideal for couples.
  • Local exploring - In a good location, easy to explore Lugano and its museums, mountains, the lake, festivals and gardens.
  • Foodies - The Arte Al Lago is a Michelin star restaurant serving gourmet cuisine in a relaxed setting.
  • Great walks - Wonderful walking, with spectacular Alpine views through the mountains and all along the lake.
from $401 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The View
The View

Lugano

A fabulous five-star hotel with a view fit for its emphatic title. The minimalist suites are sleek and cool with sharp contemporary design features and staggering vistas over the lake. Explore the shores of the lake by bicycle or complimentary e-cars. A tranquil oasis.

  • Total relaxation - Soak up the serene atmosphere from the extensive spa treatments, to the excellent restaurant and spectacular service.
  • Romantic Break - The plush suites with deep soaking tubs and private balconies, are perfect for a romantic break by the lake.
  • Sights nearby - Anyone with an interest in plantlife should not miss the botanical gardens on the Brissago Islands on Lake Maggiore.
  • Spa
from $625 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms