A Day Trip to Lugano: Swiss Serenity from Lake Como

If you're staying on Lake Como, consider carving out a day to cross into Switzerland and explore Lugano. From our base in Varenna, the drive via Como took just over an hour, delivering us into a city that’s both polished and relaxed, with postcard views at every turn.

We began by strolling through Lugano’s city center, where chic shops, lakeside promenades and Renaissance-era churches dot the streets. We found the heart of the city to be walkable, welcoming and easy.

There are two funicular rides in Lugano. This one takes you to Monte San Salvatore.

But the real highlight of the day was heading up Monte San Salvatore, the dramatic, forested peak that rises over Lake Lugano. The Funicolare Lugano-Paradiso is just five minutes from the Paradiso train station and whisks you to the summit in just 12 minutes. Departures run every 30 minutes, with extended hours in the summer (up to 11 pm), making it easy to fit into your itinerary. For our group of four, the round-trip fare was €158, and totally worth it.

At the top, we were greeted by dreamy panoramic vistas. The Capodoro Terrace, a newly renovated lookout, offers sweeping views over Lugano, Lake Lugano and the surrounding peaks all the way into Italy. There are several scenic trails that start from the summit: well-marked and ideal for a short nature walk or longer hike down the mountain. Whether you're in the mood for movement or just soaking in the views, San Salvatore delivers.

Stunning 360-degree summit views

We opted for a leisurely lunch at Restaurant Vetta, perched right at the top with both a sun-drenched terrace and a panoramic glass veranda. The menu leans Mediterranean, with fresh, seasonal dishes that felt elevated but unpretentious. We ordered what turned out to be the best salad of our entire trip, with local cheese and a citrusy vinaigrette. The restaurant is a gem: laid-back enough for a casual lunch, but with enough flair (and wine list) to make it feel special. And those views? Unreal.

Lunch at Restaurant Vetta, Monte San Salvatore

Back in town, we finished our visit with some sweet retail therapy at a Läderach flagship store, where chocolate is treated like couture. We filled a bag with their signature slabs, picked out a few exquisite truffles and learned that Elias Läderach is the only Swiss chocolatier to earn the title of World Chocolate Master. I’m happy to confirm that the honor is well deserved.

World-class treats at Läderach Chocolatier Suisse

For travelers staying in Lugano overnight, I recommend either Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano or Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola for a taste of authentic Swiss luxury.

We returned to Varenna via the Lake Como car ferry, a fun and peaceful end to a special day. One day in Lugano gave us a fresh perspective (literally and figuratively) and I now recommend it to all my Como-bound clients.

• Bring your passport! Even though it’s a quick hop into Switzerland, border control is occasionally active.

• The funicular operates frequently, but double-check hours in the off-season.

• Parking is available near the Monte San Salvatore funicular station, which is very convenient if you're driving in.

• No Swiss francs? Most places in Lugano accept credit cards or euros, but for small purchases, it's smart to have a little local currency.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Lake Como page.