Few places manage to surprise travelers the way Locarno and Ascona Switzerland do. Tucked into the southern corner of the country, in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino (Tecino / Tessin), these two lakeside towns feel warm, colorful, and effortlessly welcoming. Palm trees line the promenades, mountains rise dramatically in the background, and life seems to move at a gentler pace.
At the northern tip of Lake Maggiore, Locarno and Ascona sit just minutes apart, yet each tells its own story. Together, they create a destination that blends Swiss organization with Italian joy. In this friendly guide, you’ll discover why these towns are so loved—and why they deserve a place on your travel list.
1. A First Impression That Stays With You
Arriving in Locarno Switzerland feels like stepping into a different rhythm of life. The air is softer, the light warmer, and the scenery immediately calming. While the Alps still surround you, their sharpness fades into rolling hills and open skies. From the very first moment, Locarno invites you to slow down.
Meanwhile, Ascona welcomes you with charm and intimacy. Smaller and more refined, it feels personal, almost like a secret shared among travelers who value beauty over noise. Together, these towns offer a first impression that lingers long after you leave.
2. Locarno Switzerland – The City of Sun and Space
Locarno proudly carries the title of the sunniest city in Switzerland, and you feel it everywhere. Cafés spill into open squares, locals linger outdoors, and even busy days feel relaxed. The town balances energy and calm in a way few places manage.
In addition, Locarno acts as a cultural hub in Tessin. Events, exhibitions, and festivals keep the city alive year-round. As a result, visitors experience not only beautiful scenery but also a strong sense of local life and creativity.
3. Piazza Grande – The Living Heart of Locarno
At the center of Locarno lies Piazza Grande, a wide and welcoming square framed by colorful facades. During the day, it feels open and social. People meet for coffee, browse small shops, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors.
However, in August, the piazza transforms completely. The Locarno Film Festival turns this space into an open-air cinema, drawing international attention and filling the square with shared excitement. In that moment, culture and community merge beautifully.
4. Madonna del Sasso – A View That Changes Perspective
Rising above Locarno, Madonna del Sasso is more than a pilgrimage site—it is a place of reflection. You can reach it by funicular or on foot, and the journey itself already feels meaningful. Step by step, the town fades below you.
Once at the top, Lake Maggiore stretches endlessly, framed by mountains and sky. The view invites silence. At the same time, it reminds you how vast and peaceful life can feel when you step back and simply look.
5. Ascona – Grace, Art, and Gentle Living
If Locarno feels open and lively, Ascona feels intimate and graceful. This small town has long attracted artists, thinkers, and travelers searching for inspiration. As a result, creativity flows quietly through its streets. Moreover, Ascona never rushes. Days unfold slowly, conversations last longer, and beauty reveals itself without effort. It’s a place that rewards patience and presence.
6. The Ascona Promenade – Where Time Slows Down
The lakeside promenade is the soul of Ascona. Colorful houses, palm trees, and outdoor cafés create a postcard-perfect scene. Walking here feels unhurried, almost meditative. At the same time, the promenade encourages connection. Locals and visitors share tables, stories, and long lunches by the water. Life doesn’t need to be complicated here—it just needs to be enjoyed
7. Monte Verità – A Hill of Ideas and Freedom
Above Ascona rises Monte Verità, a place with a unique history. In the early 20th century, it attracted free thinkers who questioned social norms and searched for new ways of living. Their ideas shaped the identity of the region. Today, Monte Verità remains peaceful and inspiring. Walking its paths, you feel the quiet power of reflection. It’s a reminder that travel isn’t only about movement—it’s also about thought.
8. Nature Beyond the Lake – Valleys of Ticino
Beyond the towns, Ticino (Tecino / Tessin) opens into wild, beautiful valleys. Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia offer clear rivers, stone villages, and dramatic landscapes that feel untouched by time. These valleys add depth to a visit. After relaxing by the lake, stepping into nature creates balance. Cool water, mountain air, and quiet trails reconnect you with simplicity.
9. Food, Flavors, and Italian Influence
Cuisine in Locarno and Ascona reflects the soul of the region. Italian influence is strong, yet Swiss quality remains present. Fresh pasta, risotto, local cheeses, and lake fish dominate menus. Furthermore, meals here are social experiences. Food isn’t rushed; it’s shared. A simple dinner often turns into a long evening filled with conversation and laughter.
10. Why Locarno and Ascona Belong Together
Individually, each town shines. Together, they create harmony. Locarno Switzerland offers openness, culture, and energy. Ascona provides calm, elegance, and depth. Because they are so close, visiting both feels natural. You move effortlessly between vibrancy and stillness, discovering that balance is the true luxury of travel.
11. A Place You’ll Carry Home
Long after you leave Locarno and Ascona Switzerland, something stays with you. It might be the light on the lake, the sound of footsteps on stone streets, or the feeling of unhurried days. Ultimately, these towns don’t ask for attention—they gently earn it. In Ticino / Tessin, life feels warmer, kinder, and more human. And that may be their greatest gift.
12. How to Get There and Getting Around
Reaching Locarno and Ascona Switzerland is surprisingly easy, even though the region feels wonderfully removed from busy city life. Thanks to Switzerland’s excellent transport system, the journey is part of the experience rather than a hassle.
If you’re arriving by train, Locarno is very well connected. From Zurich, the trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours via the scenic Gotthard route. From Milan, the journey is even shorter, usually under two hours. Trains arrive directly at Locarno station, which sits close to the lake and the town center.
Traveling by car is also straightforward. The Gotthard Tunnel links northern Switzerland with Ticino / Tessin, making Locarno easily accessible year-round. From Zurich, the drive takes roughly 2.5 hours, while Milan is about 90 minutes away. Parking is available in both towns, although many visitors find they don’t need a car once they arrive.
Getting around locally is simple and enjoyable. Buses run frequently between Locarno and Ascona, and the journey takes only about 15 minutes. Even better, boats on Lake Maggiore connect the two towns, offering a scenic and relaxing alternative to road travel.
For short distances, walking is often the best option. Both town centers are compact, pedestrian-friendly, and ideal for slow exploration. Bikes are also available to rent, making it easy to move along the lakeside promenades at your own pace.
Overall, transportation in this part of Tecino / Tessin is smooth, reliable, and stress-free. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly realize that Locarno and Ascona are places where moving less—and enjoying more—comes naturally.
13. What to Do Around Locarno and Ascona
Life around Lake Maggiore offers far more than beautiful views. Whether you enjoy nature, culture, or gentle adventure, the region provides a wide range of activities that fit perfectly into slow, meaningful travel.
In Locarno and Ascona themselves, simple pleasures stand out. Stroll along the promenades, enjoy long lakeside lunches, explore local markets, or relax in cafés with a view. These everyday moments often become the most memorable part of a visit.
Outdoor lovers will find endless opportunities nearby. Hiking trails start just minutes from town, leading into forests, vineyards, and panoramic viewpoints. Swimming spots along the lake and rivers are popular in summer, while cycling routes offer scenic and relaxed exploration.
Cultural experiences also play a strong role. Museums, art galleries, and historic churches reflect the rich heritage of Ticino / Tessin, blending Swiss structure with Italian creativity.
4. Best Day Trips from Locarno and Ascona
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Locarno Switzerland or Ascona is how easy it is to explore the surrounding region. Many unforgettable destinations are just a short journey away.
Valle Verzasca
Valle Verzasca is one of the most famous day trips in Tecino. Known for its turquoise river, stone bridge at Lavertezzo, and dramatic mountain scenery, it feels almost unreal. Visitors come to hike, swim, or simply admire the clarity of the water.
Valle Maggia
Equally beautiful but more expansive, Valle Maggia offers traditional villages, open riverbanks, and peaceful hiking paths. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want nature without crowds.
Brissago Islands
A short boat ride from Ascona brings you to the Brissago Islands, home to a botanical garden filled with exotic plants from around the world. The mild climate makes this small island paradise feel surprisingly tropical.
Bellinzona and Its Castles
The capital of Tessin, Bellinzona, is famous for its three medieval castles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town combines history, culture, and scenic walks, making it an excellent half-day trip.
Centovalli and the Scenic Train Ride
The Centovalli Railway connects Locarno with Domodossola in Italy. The journey itself is the highlight, passing through deep valleys, waterfalls, and charming villages. Even if you don’t leave the train, the ride alone is worth it.
