How to get around in Lugano
Lugano is easy to be reached by train. There is plenty of public transport to get around in town, which is recommended over driving. Walking is even more pleasant.
Traveling to Lugano
Public transport is the best way to reach Lugano. Lugano is a transportation hub, with many trains, buses and also boats connecting the city to the entire region, the rest of the country and nearby Italy.
We especially recommend reaching Lugano via the Gotthard Panorama Express or the Bernina Express. The Ceneri base tunnel allows for quick rail connections with Bellinzona and Locarno.
Lugano can be reached by car via the A2 motorway that connects Italy to Central Switzerland.
There is a small airport as well. Apart from very exceptional cases we don't recommended coming by plane. It is rarely quicker or cheaper than other modes of transport, nor is it an eco-friendly option. If you land at Zurich airport, there are quick trains to reach Lugano.
Finding your way in Lugano
Most parts of Lugano can be reached on foot or by bus. The train station is close to the city center, but about 50 m up the hill. After arrival you can walk down in about 5 minutes or take a 1-minute funicular ride. The center itself is small enough to be explored on foot.
A nice walk along the lake from the city center to Lugano-Paradiso takes 20 minutes. You can also go by train in 2 minutes. A walk to Cassarate takes 20 minutes as well. There are buses too.
Public transport is convenient
Driving within the city is not recommended. There is quite a lot of traffic, plus pedestrian zones and one-way streets as in most Swiss cities. Walking and public transport are more convenient.Public transport is free for hotel guests
Hotels will provide you with a Ticino Ticket, offering a lot of transportation either for free or discounted.
