Lugano: Swiss-Italian charm, lakeside views, and rich culture

Ticino is a cyclist’s paradise - The route for our adventure was quickly chosen. Few places in Switzerland are as perfect for long cycling tours as Ticino. Here, you’ll find everything from flat lakeside paths to challenging mountain climbs – the ideal setting to combine sporting activity with indulgent experiences.

There’s something in the air, and I can’t quite put my finger on it. This close to Italy, it might be the Italian ‘dolce vita’ I’m sensing. All I know is that this feeling of pure contentment has everything to do with the old-world luxury I’m enjoying at the Splendide Royal Lugano.

Cradled between sapphire waters and the gentle sweep of alpine ridges, the Lugano Region unfolds as a sanctuary of pace and presence. Art and nature, cuisine and culture, daily rituals and rare moments come together with quiet elegance. From rustic grotti to lakeside fine dining, gastronomy is not just a pleasure but a way of connecting with the land, the seasons, and each other.

In the intricate world of haute horlogerie, Bucherer Masterworks is more than a collection – it is a carefully assembled stage where the most extraordinary expressions of fine watchmaking come to life. This bold, visionary platform celebrates the pinnacle of craftsmanship, mechanical mastery and artistic innovation.

Whether it be nature lovers, bikers, culture vultures, foodies or wine connoisseurs, Lugano attracts visitors all year round with its Mediterranean climate and diversity and it's a mere two-hour train journey from Zurich!

There is no better guide for gourmets in southern Switzerland than Dany Stauffacher. We had the pleasure of accompanying the founder and CEO of the Sapori Ticino culinary festival on an enjoyable tour of his home region and not only pass on his enthusiasm for the restaurants presented here, but also a message that was very important to him: ‘When I’m asked for restaurant tips, I always have the same problem: I’m spoilt for choice. There’s so much on offer now in Ticino that for every restaurant I recommend, I have to leave out dozens of others that are just as deserving.’

Ticino’s biggest city has long been renowned for its parks, flower gardens and villas. Over the past few years, however, it has also gained a reputation for its cultural offering. Located between Zurich and Milan, Lugano today combines scenic beauty with an extensive range of cultural activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether your interest lies in nature, history, art or sociology, the region’s 36 museums are sure to delight and enthral any culture fan with a wide-ranging programme of exhibitions and events throughout the year.