Things to Do in Bellinzona: Castles, Culture & Hidden Gems

Bellinzona, the postcard-perfect capital of Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region, is a dream if you love a good mix of castles, cuisine, and countryside charm. Tucked between Lake Como and the cultural hubs of Lugano and Locarno, this underrated gem is best known for its trio of UNESCO-listed medieval castles that look like they’ve been plucked straight from a fairytale. But there’s more than history here, from panoramic hikes and cozy piazzas to delicious food markets and nearby Ticino wine tours, Bellinzona packs in plenty of reasons to stay a while. You can dive into local flavors with cured meats, creamy alpine cheese, and a bold glass of Merlot, or spend the day exploring scenic trails with mountain views.

Best things to do in Bellinzona in Switzerland

Explore the castle grounds of Castelgrande

Right in the heart of the old town, Castelgrande is impossible to miss, and trust us, you won’t want to. With its towering stone walls and panoramic views over Bellinzona’s rooftops, this castle has serious main-character energy. You can ride the mini funicular or stroll up the gentle path from Piazza del Sole, either way, the view at the top is totally worth it. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a medieval movie set, but with espresso and sunshine waiting when you come back down.

Wander through Montebello Castle

Montebello Castle is where your inner adventurer comes out to play. Perched above Bellinzona like something out of a fantasy novel, it’s got winding stone paths, towering walls, and just enough mystery to make you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a forgotten fortress. It’s quieter than Castelgrande, which only adds to the magic, fewer crowds, more castle for you. Climb the ramparts, peek into the old museum rooms, and let your imagination run wild as you take in the epic views over the valley.

Visit the Towering Sasso Corbaro Castle

Sasso Corbaro is the castle that makes you work a little for it, and that’s part of the charm. Tucked higher up the hill and slightly off the beaten path, it feels like your own private fortress in the sky. The climb or quick drive is totally worth it, especially when you reach the top and the whole valley unfolds beneath you. Come at golden hour and you’ll see why locals rave about the view.

Stroll around Piazza Collegiata

Piazza Collegiata is where Bellinzona invites you to slow down and enjoy the good life. Grab a gelato, find a sunny terrace, and just watch the world go by with an espresso in hand. On Saturdays, the whole square comes alive, bursting with fresh fruit, crusty bread, local cheese, and that irresistible buzz only a market can bring. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer… and maybe come back tomorrow.

Visit Magadino and the Cantonal Park

Tucked northeast of Bellinzona, Magadino is where rivers meet the lake, and the mood instantly shifts to calm. It’s all wide skies, open green spaces, and that fresh, earthy scent you only get near water. The Cantonal Park is a peaceful escape, perfect for spotting birds, cycling through meadows, or just letting the kids run wild. It’s nature without the drama, just quiet beauty and room to breathe.

Best things to do around Bellinzona Switzerland

Raise your glass in the vineyards of Magadino Valley

Just 25 minutes from Bellinzona by train or car, the Magadino Valley is where wine, cheese, and killer views team up. This fertile stretch of Ticino is crisscrossed by the Ticino River and backed by Alpine peaks, a perfect backdrop for vineyard-hopping. Local wineries serve up bold Ticinese reds, usually with salami, rustic bread, and zero pretension. Between tastings, hit the walking trails for wide-open views of the valley and the mountains beyond. It’s raw, real, and seriously good.

Visit Locarno and stroll along Lago Maggiore

28 minutes from Bellinzona, Locarno delivers serious lakeside vibes with a side of sunshine. Sitting pretty on the northern edge of Lake Maggiore, this town mixes palm trees, piazzas, and that sweet spot where Swiss efficiency meets Italian style. Stroll through the old town, hit the boutiques, grab a plate of pasta by the water, or all three. Piazza Grande brings the buzz, especially during the world-famous Locarno Film Festival. Feeling restless? Hop on a boat, climb to a panoramic viewpoint, or head into the Valle Maggia for fresh air and wilder landscapes.

Don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Locarno Switzerland, it’s your shortcut to the good stuff.

Wander the streets of Lugano

About half an hour south of Bellinzona by train, Lugano knows how to show off, and it doesn’t even try too hard. Think sparkling lake views, mountain backdrops, and just enough Italian flair to make everything feel a little more stylish. Wander through the Renaissance-style old town, grab a gelato by the water, then maybe accidentally end up in a boutique you definitely didn’t plan to shop in. Staying the weekend? Great call. The city’s laid-back vibe and luxury hotels make it easy to settle in. For the views, take the funicular up Monte Brè or hike Monte San Salvatore if you’re feeling bold (or just want the Instagram shot).

Want more ways to fall for this lakeside beauty? Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Lugano in Switzerland don’t visit without it.

Discover the charm of Ascona

Just under an hour from Bellinzona by train, Ascona feels like a slice of Italy with a Swiss passport. Set right on the shores of Lake Maggiore, this elegant little town charms with its colorful facades, sun-soaked piazzas, and a food scene that’s all about wine, lake views, and seriously good pizza. Stroll the waterfront, grab a table at a terrace, and let the pace slow down. Ascona also hosts guided tours and weekend events that mix local art with great wine, it’s low-key, cultured, and super easy to reach for a day trip or a slow weekend escape.

Good to Know before visiting Bellinzona in Switzerland