Experience all the amenities of a big city with small town ambience when you visit the Swiss gem Lugano in the heart of the lake district. Enjoy the mild climate as you boat, dine in romantic restaurants or view lush landscapes.

Things to do and see:

• Visit the exciting Smuggler's Museum, the delicious "World of Chocolate" or explore all of Switzerland at the Swiss Miniature.
• Go to the top of Mt. Bre for an unforgettable view of the lake, framed by the Alps.
• Lunch lakeside in Morcote, an old and quaint village on Lake Lugano.
• Choose from outdoor activities like golfing, hiking, biking, scuba diving and more.

Visiting surrounding areas:

Situated near Italy, Lugano is close to several Swiss retreats like St. Moritz, Bellinzona and artist colony Ascona as well as Italian cities like Milan. Excellent train service connects the resort to wherever your travels take you.

Suggested  Excursions:

• Melide: Board a steamer on Lake Lugano to Melide to explore the "Swiss Miniature" museum, a small scale replica of Switzerland. Spread over 1 1/2 acres, the exhibit displays the country's main tourist attractions.
• Great Scenic Cruise: Cruise by Castagnola, Gandria, Caprino, Campione d'Italia, Bissone, Brusino, Arsizio and on to Ponte Tresa (Italy), Figino, Morcote and Melide. Learn about the lake and its villages. A wonderful cruise, both relaxing and informative.
• Castles of Bellinzona: Today, visit Bellinzona with its 3 castles, built between the 13th and 15th centuries. The castles are connected by ancient walls and provide an impressive example of a medieval defense system.