Discover Locarno | A Visitor's Introduction to Locarno

Why is Locarno Worth a Visit?

Locarno is worth visiting because it offers a unique combination of lake life, historical charm, and cultural energy, all under a near-guarantee of sunshine. The town sits at the crossroads of Swiss and Italian culture, creating a laid-back atmosphere with excellent food, vibrant public spaces, and a passion for film, art, and music.

What makes Locarno truly special is its setting: Lake Maggiore shimmers at its feet, while lush mountains like Cardada and the rugged Valle Verzasca rise behind it. This landscape makes it easy to switch between a morning swim, an afternoon hike, and an evening aperitivo in the piazza — all without leaving the region.

With its mild climate, palm-lined streets, and easy pace of life, Locarno is a perfect destination for couples, families, and solo travellers looking to unwind without losing the option for adventure.

Locarno Highlights: Things to See and Do in Locarno

Piazza Grande

The heart of Locarno is Piazza Grande, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful and spacious town squares. Surrounded by pastel-hued buildings, arcades, cafés, and shops, it’s the social and cultural hub of the town.

• Hosts the Locarno Film Festival every August, transforming into an open-air cinema.

• Great for people-watching, browsing markets, and soaking up the sunshine.

• Visit in the evening for a drink under the stars as the square comes alive.

The surrounding old town streets are full of character, offering boutique shopping and small trattorias.

Madonna del Sasso

Perched on a rocky outcrop above Locarno, the Sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso is a beautiful pilgrimage site with dramatic views over the town and lake.

• Reach it by foot via a scenic, uphill pathway or by funicular railway.

• The church is richly decorated with frescoes and religious art.

• The panoramic view from the terrace is a highlight — especially at sunset.

This is one of the most peaceful and spiritual spots in the area.

Cardada-Cimetta Cable Car

For the best panoramic views of Locarno and Lake Maggiore, take the cable car from Orselina to Cardada and then a chairlift to Cimetta.

• From Cimetta (1,671 m), you can see the lowest point in Switzerland (Lake Maggiore) and the highest (Dufourspitze in the Monte Rosa range) at once.

• In summer: Hike through forests and meadows, or try paragliding.

• In winter: Snowshoeing and gentle ski slopes are on offer.

The area is great for families, with play areas and easy walking trails near the mountain stations.

Lido Locarno and Lakefront Walks

Lido Locarno is one of the best lake swimming complexes in Switzerland, offering:

• Outdoor and indoor thermal pools.

• Waterslides, diving boards, and saunas.

• Access to a clean lake beach with swimming areas and sunbathing lawns.

Outside the lido, you can walk or cycle along the lakeside promenade, lined with palm trees, gardens, and public artworks. It’s ideal for relaxing walks, photography, or a scenic picnic.

Falconeria Locarno

An unexpected highlight, the Falconeria is a wildlife park showcasing birds of prey in action:

• See eagles, falcons, owls, and vultures fly in impressive free-flight shows.

• Learn about the ancient art of falconry.

• Suitable for children and adults — a fun and educational half-day outing.

It’s located just a short walk from the lakefront.

Locarno Film Festival

Every August, Locarno hosts the oldest film festival in Switzerland and one of Europe’s most respected.

• Piazza Grande becomes an open-air cinema for thousands of spectators.

• Features international premieres, indie films, and auteur cinema.

• The atmosphere in town is electric, with open-air bars, pop-up events, and late-night debates.

Even if you’re not a film buff, the festival is worth experiencing for the unique energy and cinematic setting.

Ghisla Art Collection and Contemporary Art Scene

Located in a striking red cube near the old town, the Ghisla Art Collection houses modern and contemporary works by artists such as Basquiat, Haring, and Miró.

• The gallery is private, yet open to the public.

• Rotating exhibitions and themed shows are well-curated and thought-provoking.

• Locarno also has smaller galleries and art events year-round.

This is a great alternative for rainy days or cultural afternoons.

Castello Visconteo

On the edge of the old town, this medieval castle is partly in ruins but still houses a museum and Roman archaeological finds.

• Learn about the town’s Milanese history and Roman heritage.

• The castle is small but interesting, with a quiet garden and tower views.

It’s not a must-see for everyone, but history lovers will enjoy it.

Day Trips: Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia

Just outside Locarno are two of Ticino’s most spectacular natural areas:

Valle Verzasca

• Famous for the double-arched stone bridge at Lavertezzo, spanning emerald-green river pools.

• Excellent for hiking, wild swimming, and photography.

• Visit the Verzasca Dam, where the James Bond GoldenEye bungee jump was filmed (and you can try it yourself!).

Valle Maggia

• A wider and more accessible valley with stunning river views and waterfalls.

• Villages like Maggia and Cevio offer rustic charm and alpine cuisine.

• Ideal for peaceful walks, picnics, and discovering traditional Ticino life.

Both valleys are reachable by PostBus from Locarno and are ideal for half-day or full-day trips.

Botanical Garden of the Brissago Islands

Take a boat ride across Lake Maggiore to the Brissago Islands, home to a lush botanical garden filled with subtropical and exotic plants.

• Wander through gardens with species from all over the world.

• Enjoy lake views and a tranquil, nature-focused experience.

• Open from spring to autumn, with boats departing from Locarno and Ascona.

It’s one of the most unique and relaxing nature experiences in Ticino.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

• By train: Locarno is easily reached from Zurich (2.5 hours) or Milan (2 hours) via Bellinzona, thanks to the Gotthard Base Tunnel.

• By car: Scenic drive via A2 motorway and the Gotthard Tunnel. Parking is available but can be limited in high season.

• By boat: Passenger boats connect Locarno with towns along Lake Maggiore, including Ascona, Brissago, and even Italy in summer.

Getting Around

• Locarno is walkable, especially the old town and lakeside areas.

• Use PostBus for the valleys and mountain villages.

• Funiculars and cable cars provide access to Cardada and the sanctuary.

• Boats run from spring to autumn and offer the most scenic form of transport.

Parking

• Public underground parking is available at Centro Castello, Parking Piazza Castello, and near the train station.

• In high season, use park-and-ride areas outside the centre to avoid traffic and full lots.

Dining

Locarno offers a blend of Ticinese cuisine and Italian flair. Local favourites include:

• Risotto with porcini mushrooms or saffron.

• Polenta with stewed rabbit or beef.

• Fresh lake fish, especially perch (persico).

• Traditional grotto restaurants, offering outdoor dining under chestnut trees.

Recommended places include:

• Grotto al Cort: Rustic local fare in a charming setting.

• Ristorante Sensi: Upscale dining with a view of the lake.

• La Trattoria da Ornella: Homestyle pasta and warm hospitality.

Finish with a glass of Ticino Merlot or Grappa di Uva Americana.

Shopping

• Browse the market in Piazza Grande (Thursdays) for local cheese, salami, honey, and crafts.

• Visit Via Sant’Antonio for fashion, jewellery, and artisan products.

• Locarno’s old town is filled with independent boutiques and delicatessens.

Great souvenirs include:

• Panettone and Ticinese pastries

• Olive oil and wine

• Handmade ceramics and textiles

When to Visit

• Spring (April–June): Gardens bloom, ideal for walks and early festivals.

• Summer (July–August): Peak season, hot and lively, perfect for lake activities and festivals.

• Autumn (Sept–Oct): Cooler weather, golden vineyards, fewer crowds.

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Quieter, but with Christmas markets and mountain excursions.

Local Events

• Locarno Film Festival (August): International cinema on the Piazza Grande – a unique experience.

• Moon&Stars Festival (July): Open-air concerts featuring international pop and rock stars.

• Locarno on Ice (Dec–Jan): A festive winter village with skating, mulled wine, and food stalls.

• Camelie Locarno (March): Flower show featuring over 1,000 varieties of camellias.

Exploring Beyond Locarno

• Ascona: A charming town just 10 minutes away, with a beautiful lake promenade and Mediterranean vibe.

• Bellinzona: The cantonal capital with three UNESCO-listed castles (30 mins by train).

• Brissago Islands: Botanical wonderlands accessible by boat.

• Italian Lakes: Day trips to Cannobio, Stresa, and other towns on the Italian side of Lake Maggiore are easy and scenic.

Locarno is a destination that offers more than meets the eye. It’s a town where culture meets nature, where the lake sparkles beneath mountain peaks, and where Swiss quality meets Italian style. Whether you’re here for the films, the food, the fresh air, or the fantastic views, Locarno will leave you feeling energised and inspired. With its laid-back vibe and unbeatable setting, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to — again and again.