Products are independently selected by our editors.
We may earn an affiliate commission from links.
That transformative spirit has worked its way into Luganos wine-growing hills.
A view over the old town of Lugano, Switzerland.
I Due Sud seats just 20 guests, so advance reservations are required.
If the Splendide representsoldLugano, The View represents the future.
The hotel has just 18 suites, all with balconies facing the lake.
Photo: Vincenzo Tambasco
A true boutique hotel with just 12 rooms, Relais Castello di Morcote opened in 2019.
Meanwhile, the hotels Ristorante,La Sorgente, serves simple breakfasts and elevated grotto-inspired dinners.
Where to Eat and Drink
A dish at Vicania restaurant.
Photo: Courtesy of The View
Switzerland is the country that gave the world fondue, raclette, and rosti.
AtVicaniain Vico Morcote, youll find grotto cuisine served in an elegant space.
YetTangopunches above the rest with its lively outdoor seating, no-nonsense servers, and impeccable people-watching vantage point.
Photo: Courtesy of Relais Castello di Morcote
Its rival isRistorante della Posta, a family-run spot that feels very much of a different era.
Located in Morcote, the best seating is outside on a patio built over the lake.
The pizza here, particularly the quattro formaggi, is delicious.
A dish at Vicania restaurant.
Lugano is now home to three Michelin-starred restaurants, which translates to one for every 20,000 people.
In addition to the Michelin-starred restaurants at hotels The View and Splendide Royal, youll findMeta.
Take a table outside to watch the world go by.
Photo: Courtesy of Villa Principe Leopoldo
Even if you dont look for gelato while in Lugano, it will find you.
The dessert is served nearly everywhere, from storefronts to street carts.
What to Do
Via Nassa in Lugano.
Via Nassa in Lugano.
Lugano is a feast for the eyes.
The citys postcard-sized downtown is a pedestrian-only area made for slow strolling, extended meals, and leisurely cappuccinos.
San Salvatore, Luganos most notable mountain, looms heroically over the city.
The Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli.
A well-marked hiking trail leads to the top of the roughly 3,000-foot mountain, as does a historic funicular.
First settled by the Romans in the first century BCE, Lugano has an impressive history.
The Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli.
A Giacometti sculpture at LAC Lugano.
A Giacometti sculpture at LAC Lugano.
Ticino also houses the second smallest wine region in Switzerland.
