Welcome to Locarno, Switzerland’s sunniest town and your perfect launchpad for mountain views with a Mediterranean twist. Located on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the heart of Ticino, this laid-back gem is all about good weather, great food, and unforgettable moments. Start your adventure with one of the many Ticino wine tours in the nearby valleys, where boutique vineyards serve up crisp whites and bold Merlots in postcard-worthy settings. From the hilltop sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso to breezy boat rides, panoramic hikes, and fairytale castles, Locarno has a little something if you’re a curious traveler.
What are the best things to do in Locarno Switzerland?
Walk to Piazza Grande
At the center of it all lies Piazza Grande, Locarno’s lively main square and a true magnet for locals and visitors alike. Framed by pastel-colored buildings and lined with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to sip an espresso, people-watch, or dive into the town’s buzzing atmosphere. The square hosts some of the region’s biggest events, including the world-famous Locarno Film Festival and the open-air Moon&Stars music festival.
Visit the Church of Madonna del Sasso
Perched above Locarno in the hillside village of Orselina, the Madonna del Sasso Monastery is one of the region’s most iconic landmarks, and a must-see for anyone visiting Ticino. This historic pilgrimage site is easily reached by a scenic ride on the funicular, and the reward at the top is twofold: a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere and jaw-dropping views over Locarno, Lake Maggiore, and the snow-capped Alps beyond.
Explore the Castello Visconteo
Just a short stroll from the heart of Locarno, the 12th-century Castello Visconteo is a hidden gem for history lovers. Once part of a defensive stronghold built by the powerful Visconti family of Milan, the castle now invites visitors to explore its centuries-old walls and vaulted halls. Inside, you’ll find an archaeological museum filled with Roman artifacts, medieval treasures, and intriguing glimpses into Locarno’s layered past. It’s a compact but captivating stop that brings the town’s history vividly to life.
Take a boat on Lake Maggiore
If you’re craving a bit of dolce vita, hop on a boat and cruise across the sparkling waters of Lake Maggiore. It’s one of the most relaxing ways to take in the region’s beauty, gliding past palm-fringed villages, grand old villas, and quiet coves that feel like hidden postcards. Just across the lake, the nearby town of Ascona charms with its colorful waterfront and laid-back vibe. With the Alps in the background and the breeze on your face, it’s the perfect blend of Swiss calm and Italian flair.
What are the best things to do around Locarno?
Explore the vineyards of the Ticino wine region
Just a scenic 30-minute drive from Locarno, the sun-drenched hills of the Ticino wine region are ready to welcome you with open cellars and full glasses. Famous for its bold, elegant Merlot, the region’s flagship grape, Ticino is home to some of the most memorable wine-tasting experiences in southern Switzerland. Follow the Ticino Wine Route through charming villages and terraced vineyards, where boutique wineries invite you to sample both rich reds and crisp whites shaped by the local terroir.
Wander through the medieval charm of Bellinzona
40 minutes from Locarno by train or car, Bellinzona is your ticket to a real-life medieval fairytale. As the capital of Ticino and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this charming town is best known for its three spectacular castles, Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, each perched above the valley with sweeping views and centuries of history in their stone walls. After exploring the fortresses, wander through the old town’s cobbled streets and pop into local cafés or bistros serving up classic Ticino flavors.
Want to dive deeper into this medieval wonder? Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Bellinzona.
Visit the serene Alpine village of Sonogno
About an hour from central Locarno by bus, the mountain village of Sonogno is the perfect escape when you’re craving fresh air and slow moments. Tucked away at the end of the stunning Verzasca Valley, this peaceful spot is all about charm, think stone cottages, alpine peaks, and crystal-clear streams running through it all. It’s also a great starting point for scenic walks, including the trail that takes you to the postcard-famous Ponte dei Salti in nearby Lavertezzo.
Lugano
Ride the scenic Centovalli train to explore the alpine valleys
Hop on the Centovalli Railway from Locarno’s main station and get ready for one of the most scenic train journeys in Switzerland. This two-hour ride takes you through a storybook landscape of deep valleys (yes, all hundred of them!), alpine villages, lush forests, and dramatic gorges as you glide your way toward Domodossola in Italy. It’s the kind of trip where you’ll want your camera ready at every turn, think cascading waterfalls, stone bridges, and wide-open views that feel straight out of a postcard.
Explore the sophisticated charm of Lugano
Set along the glistening shores of Lake Lugano and backed by the Swiss Alps, Lugano blends Italian flair with Swiss elegance in all the right ways. This lively city in Ticino is known for its lakeside promenades, designer boutiques, art museums, and mouthwatering cuisine. You can ride a funicular to Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore for sweeping views, take a boat across the lake, or simply enjoy a spritz in the sun on Piazza della Riforma.
Want the inside scoop on what to do here? Dive into our full guide to the best things to do in Lugano Switzerland.
Good to Know before visiting Locarno in Switzerland
Is Locarno, Switzerland, worth visiting?
Absolutely! Locarno is a charming lakeside town nestled in the Swiss canton of Ticino, known for its Mediterranean flair, beautiful lake views, and sunny climate, the warmest in Switzerland.
What is Locarno in Switzerland known for?
Locarno is best known for its international film festival held every August at the iconic Piazza Grande. It’s also famous for its lakefront promenade, the beautiful 12th-century Madonna del Sasso sanctuary, and its proximity to breathtaking Alpine landscapes. The town’s relaxing atmosphere and mix of Swiss and Italian cultures make it a unique destination in Switzerland.
How far is Locarno from Lugano?
Locarno is approximately 28 miles from Lugano. By car, the journey takes about 45 minutes, while direct trains run regularly between the two cities, typically taking around 50–60 minutes. It’s a picturesque ride through southern Switzerland’s lush landscapes.
What are the best things to do in Locarno, Switzerland?
Top attractions in Locarno include strolling along the shores of Lake Maggiore, visiting the Madonna del Sasso sanctuary, taking the funicular up to Orselina, exploring the ancient Castello Visconteo, and attending the Locarno Film Festival. You can also enjoy boat cruises, scenic hikes in the Verzasca Valley, and local food tours through the quaint old town.
What are the best hotels in Locarno?
Locarno offers a variety of accommodations for different budgets. For luxury stays, top-rated hotels include:
- Hotel Belvedere Locarno – 4-star hotel with a spa, restaurant, and walking distance to the funicular station.
- Hotel Eden Roc, Ascona – Though technically in nearby Ascona, this 5-star lakeside resort is a favorite among luxury travelers visiting Locarno.
- Hotel la Palma au Lac – Mid-range option offering lake views, modern rooms, and good value.
What are the best restaurants in Locarno?
If you’re looking to savor authentic Ticinese and Swiss-Italian cuisine, don’t miss these top restaurants:
- Grotto Broggini – A traditional grotto serving local dishes in a rustic garden setting outside Locarno.
- Ristorante Cittadella – Located in the old town, this spot offers a cozy ambiance and regional specialties.
- Trattoria del Lago – Great lake views and home-cooked Ticino favorites—perfect for a relaxed evening.
- BLU Restaurant & Lounge – Modern Mediterranean and Swiss fusion cuisine with a sophisticated lakeside atmosphere.
How do I get to Locarno? What is the nearest airport?
The closest major international airport to Locarno is Lugano Airport (LUG), about 40 minutes away by car. However, most international travelers arrive via Zurich Airport or Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). From Zurich, you can take a scenic direct train to Locarno via Bellinzona (approx. 2.5–3 hours). From Milan, it takes about 1.5 hours by train to get to Locarno.
Do they speak English in Locarno?
Yes, English is commonly spoken in Locarno, especially at hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and shops. However, the official language in Ticino is Italian. Learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience and is greatly appreciated by locals.
Which is better to visit: Lugano or Locarno?
Both Lugano and Locarno offer unique charms. Lugano is a larger city with a more cosmopolitan feel, luxury shopping, museums, and business centers. Locarno has a more laid-back, artistic vibe and is ideal for lakefront relaxation, film lovers, and scenic excursions. If your time allows, visiting both gives a complete view of the Ticino region’s contrasts.
