How to get to Lugano

Picturesque Lugano, spread across the shores of the lake bearing the same name in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland, attracts travellers with its mild climate and unique blend of cultures. If you are planning a trip to Lugano, it is worth noting that this popular resort and important financial centre boasts a wonderfully developed transport network. Thanks to this, the city is easily accessible for tourists, allowing you to reach your destination in comfort and immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Canton of Ticino.

Lugano's own airport (LUG) accepts a limited number of flights and is oriented primarily towards private aviation. Therefore, most tourists prefer to fly into neighbouring major cities, from where it is easy to continue the journey by land.

The nearest international hubs are the airports of Milan — Malpensa and Linate. From there, you can reach the resort by train or transfer in just an hour and a half. It is also convenient to use Zurich Airport: thanks to the efficient Swiss railway system, the journey from the northern part of the country to the south will be fast and comfortable.

Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to get to the city. Lugano Railway Station is a key transport hub on the "North – South" axis connecting central Switzerland with Italy, so trains here run frequently and strictly according to schedule.

Thanks to the opening of the Gotthard Base Tunnel, the journey from Zurich now takes less than 2 hours. This allows tourists to quickly move from the German-speaking part of the country to the sunny Canton of Ticino, enjoying views of the Alps along the way. There are also panoramic routes for those who wish to admire the landscapes at a more leisurely pace.

From the Italian side, it is most convenient to travel from Milan: the trip on a high-speed train will take only about 1 hour 15 minutes. The station is located on a hill above the city, and upon arrival, travellers can descend to the historic centre and the lakeside promenade via funicular or on foot, admiring the unfolding panorama of the lake.

Bus services connect the Canton of Ticino with many European cities, offering a budget-friendly and picturesque alternative to trains. One of the most popular options remains the trip from Milan: comfortable coaches and special shuttles from Malpensa Airport cover the distance in approximately one and a half hours. This is an excellent way to get to the resort without transfers, enjoying views of the Italian and Swiss lakes.

The journey on the legendary yellow PostBus deserves special attention. The famous "Palm Express" route connects the ski resort of St. Moritz with Lugano. The trip lasts about four hours, but the time flies by unnoticed: the path runs through the Maloja Pass and the scenic Bregaglia Valley, allowing you to see the impressive contrast between Alpine glaciers and the subtropical vegetation of the south.

The city is also included in the route networks of major international carriers operating from Munich, Zurich, and other metropolises. Most buses arrive at terminals located in the immediate vicinity of the railway station or the city centre, allowing tourists to immediately begin exploring local attractions.

A trip by car turns into a scenic journey along lakes and Alpine slopes, especially if you are driving from the Italian side. The most popular route runs from Milan: the distance of 80 kilometres along the motorway can be covered in just 1 hour 20 minutes, bearing in mind the need to purchase a vignette (toll sticker) for travel on Swiss roads. You can get there even faster from neighbouring Varese, from where the journey of about 35 kilometres will take no more than 45 minutes.

For those driving within the country, the route from the city of Sion is interesting: the road, stretching about 180 kilometres, will take around 3 hours and offer unforgettable views of mountain passes. If you prefer a taxi, expect European rates: a comfortable transfer from Milan airports or the city centre will cost a traveller approximately 150–200 Euros.

Preparation for a trip to sunny Lugano requires attention to detail so that your holiday in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland goes perfectly. We have collected a list of useful recommendations that will help you save time and budget, as well as feel confident in any situation.

1. Clothing and Items. Lugano is distinguished by a mild Mediterranean climate, but the weather can be changeable. In summer, choose light natural fabrics, but be sure to bring a windbreaker or jumper for evening walks by the lake and trips up the mountains. Since the city is located on hills and the centre is paved with cobblestones, give preference to comfortable flat shoes.
2. Transport. The historic centre is compact and ideal for walking, however, the changes in elevation can be tiring. For a comfortable descent from the railway station to the promenade and back, it is better to use the city funicular. Public transport operates strictly according to schedule, and buses are often the fastest way to reach remote districts.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Although Euros may be accepted in some tourist places, the exchange rate will be extremely unfavourable, and change will be given in Francs. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is worth carrying a little cash for payments at markets or kiosks.
4. Health and Safety. Lugano is a very safe city where you can walk calmly even after dark. The tap water here is of excellent quality: you can safely drink from the numerous street drinking fountains, which will allow you to save on buying bottled water.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Italian. Locals greatly appreciate politeness, so using simple words like "Buongiorno" (Good day) and "Grazie" (Thank you) will endear you to your interlocutor. In the tourism sector, staff generally speak English and German well.
6. Local Etiquette. Upon entering a small shop or restaurant, it is customary to greet the staff. The Swiss value quiet and order, so it is not customary to speak loudly or play music without headphones on public transport and in the streets.
7. What to Avoid. Do not delay lunch until the late afternoon. Most restaurants close their kitchens strictly from 14:00 to 18:30 or 19:00. If you do not manage to eat on time, your choice will be limited to sandwiches in cafes or fast food. Also, remember that on Sundays, most shops are closed.
8. Additional Tip. If you are staying in a hotel, hostel, or campsite, be sure to ask for the "Ticino Ticket". This card is issued to guests free of charge and gives the right to free travel on buses and trains throughout the canton, as well as providing discounts on ski lifts and funiculars.

Observing these simple rules will help you adapt faster to the rhythm of city life and focus on the main thing — enjoying the magnificent landscapes and the atmosphere of the Swiss-style "Dolce Vita". Have a pleasant journey!