Lugano (Ticino) Switzerland

GETTING THERE/TRANSPORTATION:

• Trains from Zurich are about 3 hours. From Milano it is about 1.5 hours (adding time for the border crossing.
  
• The town of Lugano is manageable via foot. If you are looking to go up the mountains (San Salvatore or Bre) you can either hike or take the funicolare.
• To get to different portions of the lake use the waterbus.
  

LODGING:

• Elvezia al Lago - this is a little outside of Lugano, but if you are looking for a charming, quite b&b this is the spot. Dinner there was great as was the owner's raisin cake.
  
• For holiday apartments you can click here.
  

ACTIVITIES:

• Hiking
• Boating

FOOD:

• For beautiful views - check out the restaurants atop Mt. Bre or Mt. Sansalvatore (Ristoranta Vetta)
• The sidewalk cafes off the main square were good, quick and cheap.
  
• Try walking along the path in Castalonga. There are many options (all on the lake) including the first floor of Elvezia al lago.
  
• Make sure to try gelato in town. Look for a stand near the library and water.
  

SHOPPING:

• Stores are typically closed on Sunday
• For discount shopping catch a taxi or bus to Foxtown Factory Stores