Arriving into Lugano Airport or taking the scenic train ride into the city puts you in one of the most beautiful spots in Switzerland. With the glacial Lake Lugano stretching out in front of the city and the surrounding Alpine mountains, Lugano makes for a phenomenal base to explore the region. Getting around easily requires renting your own set of wheels, with motorcycle and scooter rentals readily available.
Gliding along Lake Lugano on your rented bike or quad is a great way to take in the dramatic scenery. The city itself is a picturesque spot, with café-lined piazzas, pedestrian zones full of high-end shops, and historical churches and buildings to wander through. Some of the top attractions include the Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli with its Renaissance frescoes, as well as the Museo Cantonale d’Arte for art lovers.
Taking your rental out from the city center allows you to explore the countryside and surroundings. Riding up Monte Bre offers stunning panoramic views out over Lugano and the lake. The mountain roads and passes winding through the Alps make for incredible riding.
Must-see towns nearby include Gandria, huddled right on the lakeshore, as well as Morcote, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland. With Chur, Lucerne, and Zermatt all within a few hours of Lugano, having your own set of wheels makes it easy to take day trips to some of Switzerland’s top attractions. Whether you want to cruise along perfect mountain roads or soak up the Italian flair of this southern Swiss city, Lugano is the perfect base with the freedom to explore at your own pace.