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Sometimes a train-change makes for an adventure 🚉 On my way from Malpensa to Altdorf, I decided to take a later train connection and spend a few hours in Lugano – because why not 😉 Tucked away in Ticino, the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, Lugano is known for its shimmering lake, mountain views, and that unique blend of Swiss order and Mediterranean charm.

Fun Facts about Lugano 🌿

• Italian vibes, Swiss setting: Lugano is Switzerland’s largest Italian-speaking city, giving it an atmosphere that feels more Milan than Zurich.
• Monte San Salvatore: The mountain above the city is 912 metres high and offers incredible views — on clear days you can see all the way to the Alps.
• A city of parks: Lugano is famously green, with lakeside promenades, parks like Parco Ciani, and botanical gardens adding to its laid-back feel.
• Financial hub with a holiday soul: Despite being one of Switzerland’s important banking centres, Lugano feels refreshingly unhurried — a place where business suits mix easily with flip-flops by the lake.

With only 3,5 hours, I set off to explore — and it turned out to be just the right amount of time for a little wander and a few photos 📸

From the station, I slipped out the back way into Teccino Park, where you immediately get those elevated views of Lugano and the lake. It’s a quiet green space, perfect for a picnic or a pause before heading downhill.

To reach the waterfront, I followed the stairs next to the old Funicolare per la Città, which once connected the station with the centre. The path spills you straight into the heart of town, and soon enough, onto the lakeside promenade.

I wandered towards Paradiso first, following the part of the promenade shaded by trees 🌳 The walk itself is wonderfully charming, offering changing perspectives of both the city and the lake as you go. Bright red benches line the way — perfect for pausing, people-watching, or just soaking in the scenery.

At the far end of town lies another park; Parco Ciani, equally beautiful and inviting, with wide paths and plenty of space to linger before looping back to the train station.

If you ever find yourself changing trains in Lugano, don’t just wait it out on the platform. Step outside, take a walk, and let the lake, the parks, and the Italian-Swiss charm do their work. Even a little detour leaves a big impression ❤️