Locarno: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!

A trip to Ticino or Locarno takes you to the southern and Italian part of Switzerland. The picturesque landscape invites you to go hiking, but also offers numerous activities and excursion opportunities, such as the film festival in Locarno, which takes place annually in August. Ticino is known for the Gotthard Tunnel.

Table of contents

Locarno - Must-see attractions
Locarno - Secret spots
Locarno - In 3 days

Locarno - Must-see attractions

Locarno - Holiday homes & apartments

Our Lady of the Rock

Even today, the church in the town of Orselina above Locarno is an important destination for pilgrimages. It was built in 1480 after the apparition of the Virgin Mary at this location. A Way of the Cross leads from the old town of Locarno to the church. Among the precious art treasures of the church, a wooden Madonna statue from the 15th century stands out. Miraculous things are attributed to it. Also impressive is the wooden group of the Deposition from the same period. First-rate artworks are the altarpieces in the church naves.

City and Archaeology Museum

In addition to the impressive landscape, Locarno boasts a long, varied history. It has been inhabited for millennia. At the City and Archaeological Museum, visitors learn more about the eventful past that dates back to the Bronze Age. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday in spring, summer, and autumn. Take a look at the archaeological finds from the 13th century BC or learn more about the ancient Roman period during the tours.

Main Square

The Piazza Grande is a popular promenade at any time of day. The charming Lombard style characterizes the famous 700-meter-long arcades. Also note the ornate facades of the townhouses and the Torre Comunale from the 14th century with its striking clock tower. In the rooms of the medieval Castello Visconteo, the Archaeological Museum presents interesting finds from the past. Follow the Via Crucis to the Madonna del Sasso sanctuary, perched on a rocky plateau. From here, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the lake.

Seepromenade Locarno/Muralto

The lakeside promenade to Muralto begins at the boat dock in Locarno. Here, palm trees, cypresses, and banana plants thrive. A highlight is the Camellia Park: On an area of 10,000 square meters, you can admire around 850 different varieties of camellias. Also worth a visit is the garden named after the artist Jean Arp, featuring holm oaks and sculptures. Enjoy the Mediterranean flair and indulge yourself with ice cream and coffee at one of the many lakeside cafés.

Jean Arp Gardens

In the Giardini Jean Arp, you find yourself in one of these magnificent gardens, which delights locals and visitors with its Mediterranean flora. During a walk, you gaze upon the deep blue Lake Maggiore and the imposing slopes of the southern Alps. Holm oaks and nine sculptures by the artist, to whom the park owes its name, characterize the garden. Just a few minutes' walk away is the Piazza Grande, the landmark of Locarno. The cobblestone city square with colorful houses hosts international events.

Camelia Park

The Parco delle Camelie is located in the popular Swiss city of Locarno and is home to over 850 different varieties of camellias. These can be discovered in an idyllic small labyrinth, whose atmosphere is complemented by melodious birdsong. The largest bed in the park with wonderfully fragrant camellias is located near a small amphitheater, which offers a great seating area with a beautiful view of the lake. This peaceful idyll promises not only a beautiful sight but also plenty of relaxation.

Locarno - Secret spots

Locarno - Holiday homes & apartments

Church of San Quirico

The Church of San Quirico is located in Minusio, a neighboring town of Locarno. The place of worship in Ticino is several hundred years old, but the current parish church in Baroque style dates from the 18th century. Inside, frescoes from the 13th century depict the life of Jesus.

Casa Rusca Art Gallery

Since the 1980s, the Casa Rusca in Locarno has housed the municipal art collection as well as temporary exhibitions of renowned artists from home and abroad. The Casa Rusca, dating from the 18th century, is located on Piazza San Antonio, from which the museum can be accessed through a special passage.

Gambarogno Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden of Gambarogno, located between Piazzogna and Vairano on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the Locarno district, welcomes visitors all year round. On an area of 17,000 m², you can admire camellias, magnolias, azaleas, peonies, and other plants. You will need about an hour for the visit.

Oratory of Saint Roch

The Oratorio di San Rocco, a hidden gem in Locarno, is dedicated to Saint Roch, the patron saint of plague victims. It reflects the deep spiritual heritage and historical resilience of the community. Located in a quiet corner of Locarno, it offers a peaceful retreat for reflection and prayer, away from tourist paths. Ideal for visitors seeking tranquility and a connection to local heritage, it is a must for those interested in art, history, and spirituality.

Locarno - In 3 days

Locarno - Holiday homes & apartments

Day 1

As soon as you arrive in the Ticino town of Locarno, you will be delighted by the magnificent location on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore. A first walk towards the lakeside is a must on the first day of your vacation. The view of the water against the alpine mountain backdrop evokes a pure holiday mood. A tour with the excursion boat is one of the best ways to get an overview of the surroundings and explore your holiday destination from a completely different perspective from the water side, at any time of the year. The waterway is also a practical option to reach other places along the shore and to be ferried back to Locarno after a stroll. End the evening at the Casino Locarno. Try your luck at the slot machine or blackjack and, with a bit of luck, top up your travel budget for your next vacation days at Lake Maggiore.

Day 2

On the second day of vacation, you go high up. The 1,671 m high Cimetta is considered the local mountain of Locarno. A network of hiking trails for every athletic ambition is available for you to choose from. Alternatively, you can comfortably take the cable car up to the summit. Those starting directly from Locarno travel up in two stages. During the transfer, a short detour to the pilgrimage church of Madonna del Sasso is worthwhile. It is situated in an outstanding location on a rocky outcrop with a beautiful view over Lake Maggiore. Continue walking at the summit to the viewing platform, which offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views over the lake. It extends as a walkway a few steps into the air, requiring some courage and a head for heights. In winter, depending on the snow conditions, there is the opportunity to participate in guided snowshoe hikes around the summit. During a full moon, you should not miss one of the guided night hikes.

Day 3

The third day in Locarno starts with culture. In the art gallery of the Museo Casa Rusca, you immerse yourself in the art of the 20th century. Changing exhibitions with predominantly contemporary art enrich the offerings of the renowned house. In the city and archaeological museum Museo civico e archeologico, you embark on a journey to the Bronze Age and marvel at finds from the Roman era around Locarno. You find it in the rooms of the medieval Visconteo Castle, itself an absolute sight. The museum is known for its rich collection of Roman glass. The afternoon is all about fun and relaxation by the lake. In summer, the Lido beach in Locarno invites you to swim and sunbathe with the whole family. Along the shore, you take long walks. For vacationers with children, a detour to the Locarno Falconry Park is worthwhile. During flight shows, you experience the kings of the skies up close.