Explore Lugano: Renaissance Masterpieces & Lakeside Serenity

Lugano2 hr
Explore Lugano: Renaissance Masterpieces & Lakeside Serenity
  • Duration2 hr
  • Guide languagesGerman, English, Italian, French, Dutch
  • Instant confirmationMobile ticket
from
€222per person
Date
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Overview

Treat yourself to a lavish holiday in the mind-blowing Lugano, a modern yet charming quaint city of Switzerland which takes huge pride in the picturesque, vast Lugano lake surrounded by majestic mountains, and thus offers a wide range of activities: appreciating old-world charms, such as the great masterpieces at the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence and thrilling historical stories of the Reformation Square, taking advantage of great photography opportunities at the iconic riverside Mocetti Fountain, getting immersed in the magnificent natural landscapes of the best park in Switzerland, as well as combining high-end windowing shopping with sightseeing of beautiful historic buildings on the biggest commercial street of Via Nassa.

What's included

  • Private guided tour
  • Gratuities and refreshments

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Stop 1

    15 min

    Start the walk at the Church of Saint Mary of the Angels. Despite the simplistic appearance, walking inside the church is a striking experience of marveling at the famous Renaissance frescoes of the Passion And Crucifixion of Chris and Last Supper, covering all over the dividing wall and the nave’s south wall respectively. The mesmerizing masterworks strongly influenced by Leonardo are the most important examples of the Lombard Renaissance in Switzerland.

  2. 2

    Stop 2

    15 min

    Upon leaving the faraway land, join the atmospheric Via Nassa, historically Lugano’s most important commercial street. The high-end labels and historic architectural elements add an elegant touch to this street, which elevates window shopping to an art form with an array of classy boutiques, exquisite antiques, lovely eateries, and elegant cafés nestling under the porticoes along the thoroughfare.

  3. 3

    Piazza della Riforma

    15 min

    At the end of the street is the Reformation Square, which hosts regular lively festivals and markets. The relaxing ambiance of elegant neoclassical buildings, quaint cafes, and flamboyant booths selling local produce make it the favorite meeting venue in the city today. But three centuries ago, the Town Hall dominating the cozy square was the quiet witness of a series of chaotic political events.

  4. 4

    Stop 4

    15 min

    Next, it’s time to pace yourself and walk up to the higher part of the city where the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence rests in the shadow of its looming Baroque-style bell. The climb rewards with pleasant vistas of the town below, the imposing mountains, and a splendid sight of the majestic white-stone temple hiding inside a glorious interior.

  5. 5

    Stop 5

    15 min

    Then, head to the riverfront to the stunning Mocetti Fountain, housing miniature mountains and a pond of crystal clear water, symbolizing the natural landscapes that Lugano is blessed with. The waterwork surrounded by nice buildings and facing out right to the picturesque Lugano Lake offers excellent backdrops for souvenir photos.

  6. 6

    Stop 6

    15 min

    In the following step, check out the elegant Church of S. Rocco, whose neo-baroque façade showing off intricate carvings and inscriptions is an outstanding example of its kind.

  7. 7

    Parco Ciani

    15 min

    Finally, explore all the wonders that Ciani Park has to offer within an area of 63,000 m², including a gigantic botanic collection of native and exotic vegetation, velvety lawns alternating with flower beds in bloom, winding paths lined by century-old trees and beautiful buildings far and few in between, and the list goes on. The secluded green oasis overlooking the vast lake is a veritable wonderland to get in touch with nature after the hustle and bustle in the vibrant city center.

Meeting point and pickup

Meeting point

At the Statue of Carlo Battaglini, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.

End point

At the entrance gate of the Ciani Park.

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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