Things To Do
in Locarno
Locarno is a sun-drenched town on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore in Ticino, Switzerland. Its lakeside promenade is lined with palm trees, cafés, and gelaterias, while the old town invites wandering through narrow alleys and historic façades. The town is famed for its Mediterranean climate, a medieval castle, and the annual film festival that fills Piazza Grande with energy.
Nearby hills, cable cars, and valleys offer quick access to nature, making Locarno a convenient base for lake and alpine adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a cappuccino at a lakeside café overlooking Piazza Grande. Wander through the cobblestone alleys of the historic center and admire the pastel facades. Browse artisan boutiques and pick up locally made souvenirs.
Visit Castello Visconteo and explore its medieval towers and frescoed halls. Learn about the region’s history in the onsite museum and enjoy panoramic views over Lake Maggiore. Pause for gelato at a nearby parlour before continuing your tour.
Dine at a traditional Ticinese osteria on the square while people-watching under the fairy-lit arcades. Sample local specialties such as polenta and luganighe sausage paired with a glass of Merlot. End the night with a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore promenade.
Head to Lido Locarno for a refreshing dip in the pool or the crystal-clear waters of Lake Maggiore. Relax on sun loungers and soak up the alpine sun with panoramic mountain vistas. Grab a smoothie at the poolside bar to energize your day.
Rent a paddleboat or stand-up paddleboard and explore the tranquil bays and inlets around Locarno. Stop at floating platforms to dive or sunbathe at your leisure. Treat yourself to a light lakeside lunch at the Lido’s restaurant terrace.
Return to town for aperitivo at a trendy bar near the Piazza Grande. Sip a spritz while watching the sun set behind the Brissago Islands. Enjoy a casual dinner of fresh seafood pasta on a terrace overlooking the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-120 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $120-200 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Sunny climate and beautiful lake scenery
- Compact town with easy access to nature and culture
- Prices can be high in tourist areas
- Some attractions require transport outside the town
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the train station?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Locarno
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic open-air stage with arcades and pastel façades, perfect for sunset and street photography.
Medieval fortress with water reflections and picturesque riverfront views.
Hilltop sanctuary offering sweeping views of Locarno and Lake Maggiore.
High-altitude vantage point above the town reached by cable car, ideal for panoramic shots.
Emerald river and a dramatic stone bridge, a favorite for landscape photography.
Food in Locarno
Locarno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy polenta served with slow-braised shaved beef (bruscitt), a Ticino classic.
Must-Try!
Creamy risotto made with perch from Lake Maggiore, a local specialty.
A rich cheese fondue from the region, typically served with crusty bread and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local produce, cheeses, and street snacks with lakeside ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is appreciated, especially for trains and reservations.
Italian is the local language in Ticino; greet with Buongiorno or Buona sera and speak politely in Italian when possible.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and sanctuaries.
Safety
Tipping in Locarno
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not obligatory.
Credit cards are widely accepted; carrying some cash in CHF is handy for smaller shops and mountain huts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with refreshing lake breezes; expect crowds around the promenade and outdoor events. Pack sun protection and stay hydrated; afternoon thunderstorms are possible but brief.
Milder days with golden light and fewer crowds; great for hiking, wine tasting, and photography near harvest time.
Mild by Swiss standards with cool days and occasional rain; many lakefront venues stay open and alpine trips to nearby mountains are popular.
Blooming gardens and increasing temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploration and scenic trails with manageable crowds.
Locarno at Night
Hiking in Locarno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pleasant hike with panoramic views of Locarno and Lake Maggiore; reachable via cable car.
Scenic valley hike leading to the famous stone bridge, ideal for photos and a picnic.
A dramatic alpine ridge hike with sweeping vistas and forested slopes, often complemented by a cable car ride.
Valley paths through traditional villages with waterfalls and lush meadows.
Airports
How to reach Locarno by plane.
Closest airport; about 40-60 minutes by car or rail transfer to Locarno.
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours away by train or car plus rail connections.
Another Milan option with frequent connections; travel time similar to MXP.
Largest Swiss hub about 2.5-3 hours by rail; multiple daily connections to Locarno via Gotthard or Bernina routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Italian-speaking community with a rich Ticinese culture and friendly vibe.
Vibrant influx in summer and during events, contributing to a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
A small international community drawn by the climate and lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on the lake.
Varied trails from lakeside strolls to alpine hikes in the surrounding hills.
Road cycling along the lake and forest trails with varied difficulty.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Locarno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for polenta, risottos with mushrooms, and grilled vegetables; many places can adapt staples on request.