Lugano City Guide

Try Ticinese dishes like risotto and polenta, especially at grotti. There’s a good mix of international food. Vegetarian and vegan options are common. Late-night options are limited but available.

Nightlife is modest with bars and clubs near the city center and lakefront. Places can stay open until around 5 AM.

Strong Italian coffee influence with espresso bars and growing specialty shops. Focus on quality and quick breaks.

Tips are optional since service is usually included. Rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Taxis commonly get rounded up.

Buy SIM cards at mobile stores, electronics shops, post offices, or supermarkets. Providers include Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt with wide coverage. eSIMs are available. Registration requires valid ID or passport.

Lugano is very clean with efficient waste and recycling programs and very few sanitation issues.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies rotate emergency hours. A few convenience stores open late. Emergency clinics available.

Supermarkets offer international products, especially Italian foods. Coop and Migros are largest chains; Denner and Lidl are budget options. Fresh markets available. Shops close Sundays and holidays.

Credit and debit cards work almost everywhere. Cash is accepted but less common.

ATMs are common in banks, train stations, and malls. Major banks like UBS and Credit Suisse have machines. Foreign card fees may apply.

TASIS and IST offer international curricula in English. Local public schools teach in Italian. Apply early due to waitlists.

Community is small but growing. Meetups and networking mainly through coworking spaces and online groups.

Parco Ciani and other parks offer shaded paths and great running spots. Plenty of green areas throughout town.

Safe, scenic running routes along the lake promenade, Parco Ciani, and mountains. Local running clubs and events exist.

Several modern gyms available for various fitness needs.

Tennis clubs and public courts available. Padel is growing in popularity. Courts can be booked online.

Padel is gaining traction with courts available at some clubs.

Various yoga studios offer multiple styles and English-speaking instructors. Drop-in classes common.

Several schools offer Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, Boxing, BJJ, and Muay Thai. Drop-in classes sometimes available.

Ski resorts within 1-1.5 hours by car. Good snow quality and mix of terrain. Equipment rental available.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on the lake. Rentals and tours available in warm seasons.

No surfing due to lack of waves on Lake Lugano.

Diving in Lake Lugano with good visibility. Sites suited for beginners and advanced divers. Equipment rentals and courses available.

Healthcare is top quality with public and private options. The main hospital has English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are well stocked and offer advice.

Tap water is safe and of excellent quality throughout Lugano.

Many playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes. Major supermarkets stock baby supplies. Attractions include Parco Ciani and Swissminiatur.

Generally safe and accepting. Legal protections in place. Smaller local events take place.

Many pet-friendly hotels and restaurants. Good vet care and dog-walking areas. Strict pet import rules.