Swiss-Mediterranean Lakeside Luxury | Lugano
The insider guide by The Bearleaders
Lago di Lugano | Credits: Bearleader in Photography Nine Ijff
Located on a beautiful lake, Lugano is the largest city in the Southern, Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. It has become a popular spot for tourists because of its combination of stunning nature, rich culture, and luxurious lifestyle. Streets are filled with museums, boutique stores with all the top brands, and lots of amazing restaurants. Some with a stunning view of the famous ‘Lago di Lugano’. Culinary lovers can rejoice too. Lugano offers many different options, ranging from honest but delicious pasta to Michelin-starred dining.
Where to eat & go for a drink
AL FARO
A local favourite, this is a fantastic fish restaurant with a wide, fresh selection and great service.
I DUE SUD
This Michelin star restaurant is as much a tribute to Southern Switzerland as it is to Southern Italy, where chef Domenico Ruberto grew up. A personal story that makes for personal cooking, with flavours that are innovative and yet evocative of time and place and a sense of nostalgia.
RISTORANTE GOLF MAGLIASO
The local golf club’s restaurant comes highly recommended. Enjoy traditional international cuisine on the large terrace looking out over the greens.
LA PIAZZETTA
Enjoy cocktails by the Lake Lugano on this beautiful terrace, or taste the authentic Napoli pizza, made in a small mobile wood oven.
GROTTO GRILLO
A Lugano classic, everything here is traditional, authentic, and hand-made. Warm service beautifully compliments honest cooking.
What to do
HIKING AT MONTE SAN GIORGIO
This mountain on the lake has been recognized as UNESCO Heritage site for its importance in the history of nature, as it holds some of the most extensive collections of fossils. A large pyramid, entirely covered with beautiful greenery, it is a must-see for nature lovers. Hike around one of the many trails.
SWIM AT LIDO CONCA D’ORO
A public swimming pool and beach, offering both access to the lake and the pool. A great place to relax, swim and mix with the locals.
VISIT MUSEO DELLE CULTURE / MUSEC
Located in a mid-eighteenth-century villa by the lake, this excellent anthropological museum of cultures preserves ethnic artworks from tribes of India, South-East Asia, the Far East, and Oceania, collected by known Swiss Avantgarde artist Serge Brignoni.
VISIT MUSEUM OF ART / MASI
This wonderful art museum showcases a rich cultural collection of art from the 15th century to now, with temporary exhibitions and changing presentations of its collection.
SHOP AT VIA NASSA
Lugano’s most historical street combines high-end architecture with views of the lake. It is home to the most exclusive luxury shops in the city, with many Swiss and Italian boutique brands showcasing their goods in a stylish way.
