Category: Sights & attractions

Lugano is the largest city in Ticino and lies with Mediterranean flair on the lake of the same name between the viewpoint mountains Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Palm-lined promenades, a lively old town and funiculars up the local mountains shape the scene. The lake reaches as far as Italy.HighlightsMediterranean lakeside promenade and old townLocal mountains Monte Brè and San Salvatore…

At 1,704 m, Monte Generoso offers an all-round view over the Ticino lakes, the Po Plain and the arc of the Alps. On the summit stands the Fiore di Pietra viewing building designed by star architect Mario Botta. A historic cog railway leads up from Capolago on Lake Lugano.HighlightsAll-round view over lakes, the Po Plain and the AlpsFiore di Pietra by Mario…

The Centovalli, the valley of a hundred valleys, links Locarno with Domodossola in Italy. The Centovalli Railway, a narrow-gauge line, runs through the wild gorge landscape over numerous bridges and through tunnels, past chestnut forests and waterfalls, especially impressive in autumn.HighlightsCentovalli Railway over bridges and through tunnelsWild gorges and chestnut forestsCross-border to DomodossolaAutumn colours especially beautifulGood to…

The Maggia valley is the largest valley in Ticino and known for its crystal-clear, emerald-green river water, stone mountain villages and waterfalls. Its landmark is the Foroglio waterfall. Natural pools along the Maggia invite swimming in summer, though the water stays cold.HighlightsEmerald-green, clear river waterForoglio waterfallStone mountain villages and rusticiNatural bathing spots along the MaggiaGood to…

Merano (Meran) was one of the most fashionable spa towns of the Habsburg Empire and captivates with its mild climate, promenades and Art Nouveau architecture. Above the town lie the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, an award-winning botanical garden with plants from all over the world. The Therme Meran spa lies right in the centre.HighlightsBotanical Gardens of Trauttmansdorff CastleMild climate and spa promenadeTherme Meran…

Bolzano (Bozen) is the capital of South Tyrol and blends alpine and Mediterranean influences, visible in the arcaded lanes of the old town and the surrounding vineyards. Its most famous resident is Ötzi, the more than 5,000-year-old Iceman, on display in the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology. Three cable cars lead up to the surrounding plateaus.HighlightsÖtzi in the South Tyrol Museum of ArchaeologyMedieval…