Lugano, Switzerland | Italian-style lakes and mountains, 3 days and 2 nights of healing travel guide

When talking about Switzerland, most people will think of Zurich, Geneva or Jungfrau, but if you are longing for a small town that perfectly combines "Swiss refinement" and "Italian laziness", Lugano is definitely worth adding to your travel list! Backed by the Alps and facing an emerald lake, the streets are filled with the aroma of espresso, yet the Swiss sense of order is evident everywhere. Share my 3-day, 2-night guide to unlock this "Mediterranean-style mountain and lake city"! 📍Must-check-in experience: the best ways to play in Lugano 1️⃣ Rafting on Lake Lugano Rent a pedalo or take a vintage steam boat tour (Navigazione Lago di Lugano) to experience the clear waters up close. It is recommended to board the boat after 4 pm. When the sunlight is soft, the lake surface will present a gradient of blue-green, and every photo will be a postcard-worthy one! 2️⃣ Climb to the top of Monte San Salvatore Take the red mountain train directly to the top of the mountain and enjoy a 360° panoramic view of Lake Lugano and the snow-capped mountains in the distance. There is a suspended observation deck next to the church on the top of the mountain. Don’t miss the “walking in the clouds” experience if you are brave enough! 3️⃣ Stroll through the Old Town (Città Vecchia) Narrow cobblestone streets, bright yellow arcades, retro shop windows... the old town hides the lively atmosphere of Lugano. We recommend visiting Via Nassa to browse the designer shops, and then going to Piazza della Riforma to have an Aperol Spritz and blend into the "slow pace" of the locals. 🍴Lugano on the tip of your tongue: Italian-Swiss fusion cuisine recommendation ✔️ Ristorante Galleria Arté al Lago This one-star Michelin restaurant is located by the lake and specializes in creative Swiss cuisine. A must-try is the Alpine trout with saffron risotto, the ingredients are fresh and the presentation is like a work of art. ✔️ Gelateria Vanini A century-old handmade ice cream shop, the pistachio and tiramisu flavors are unparalleled! The store clerk will enthusiastically let you try the food, which is good news for those with difficulty choosing. ✔️ Local Market (Mercato di Lugano) The market opens every Tuesday and Friday morning, with a wide variety of fresh cheese, air-dried ham and fig jam. I recommend buying a can of Ticino honey, which is super comforting when paired with breakfast bread! 🚞Transportation & Accommodation Tips ✈️ How to get there From Zurich/Milan, take a direct train for about 2 hours. Buy tickets on the SBB or Trenitalia official website If you drive, it is recommended to choose the lake view road Via Cantonale, the scenery along the way is beautiful 🏨 Accommodation recommendations Budget Party: Hotel & Hostel Montarina (youth hostel + hotel combination, garden pool facing the snow-capped mountains) Light luxury party: The View Lugano (infinity pool + panoramic terrace, the best choice for honeymoons) 🚶 Transportation in the city The old town attractions are within walking distance. A one-way bus ticket costs 4 Swiss francs. It is recommended to buy a "Ticino Ticket" (a free regional transportation card is provided when staying at the hotel) 💡Guide to avoiding pitfalls 1. Swiss francs and euros are accepted, but change may be in Swiss francs. It is recommended to exchange in advance 2. Lakeside restaurants require advance reservations for window seats (especially on weekends) 3. October is the grape harvest season, so you can check out the surrounding wine estates 📌The last little surprise: Before returning, remember to sit on the bench in Parco Ciani. The wind blowing from the lake is mixed with the scent of olive trees. You will understand why the Swiss say "Lugano is God's overturned palette"~ If you also like niche and down-to-earth travel destinations, you might as well put Lugano as your next stop. There are no crowded tourists here, only the slow time accompanied by lakes, mountains and coffee✨