Things to do in Castagnola

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo "Castagnola" by Николай Максимович (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by Николай Максимович (CC BY)
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Lake Lugano

Straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, Lake Lugano offers the best of both countries. Enjoy its year-round Mediterranean climate and sparkling blue waters while majestic snowcapped mountains beckon in the distance.
Learn more
Lake Lugano, panoramic view from the top, switzerland

2. Villa del Balbianello

Villa del Balbianello is set in a commanding location on the edge of a wooded promontory that juts out from the coastline. Stroll around the handsome building befitting this striking setting and find well-landscaped gardens and an interesting museum.
Learn more
Lake Como showing a coastal town, general coastal views and a bay or harbour

3. Como-Brunate Funicular

The Funicular Como-Brunate is an historic funicular railway that connects the lakeside town of Como with the pretty alpine village of Brunate. Admire sweeping views of Lake Como and rugged hills as you climb, and then traverse the countryside surrounding Brunate.
Learn more
Como-Brunate Funicular which includes a bay or harbor and a bridge

4. Piazza Cavour

Elegant and animated Piazza Cavour is Como’s main square and a focal point of the city’s historic center. It is a place to enjoy views of Lake Como and its surrounding hills, to admire striking architecture and to be part of festivals and cultural events.
Learn more
Piazza Cavour featuring a ferry, a coastal town and a marina

5. Piazza Grande

Visit Locarno’s town center, Piazza Grande, a rambling 19th-century square that was once occupied by the waters of Lake Maggiore. Today, picturesque buildings and important landmarks line the historic square. Each August it is transformed into one of the world’s premier open-air cinemas during the Locarno Film Festival. A trip to Locarno isn’t complete without a day spent meandering across the cobbled surface of the enormous square.
Learn more
Piazza Grande showing road cycling as well as an individual femail

What to do in Castagnola

Popular places to visit

Monte San Salvatore

Monte San Salvatore

Climb to the top of this lakeside mountain to dine while enjoying panoramic views across the Swiss Alps.

Monte San Salvatore
Mount Brè

Mount Brè

Explore the great outdoors at Mount Brè and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Lugano. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this quaint area.

Mount Brè
Santa Maria degli Angeli

Santa Maria degli Angeli

Experience one of Switzerland’s most impressive Romanesque churches and its enormous 16th-century fresco.

Santa Maria degli Angeli

Palazzo dei Congressi

Palazzo dei Congressi is just one of the places to see in Lugano, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Palazzo dei Congressi

Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station

Find out about the history of Lugano when you spend time at Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station

LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura

You can enjoy some culture when you stop by LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura in Lugano. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura

Via Nassa

During your trip to Lugano, you can enjoy retail therapy at Via Nassa. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Via Nassa

Piazza della Riforma

You can find out about the history of Lugano when you stop by Piazza della Riforma. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Piazza della Riforma

Lungolago

You can find out about the history of Lugano with a visit to Lungolago. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Lungolago
Lugano

Lugano

Frequently asked questions

Is Castagnola worth visiting?
Providing a blend of history and views, there are many things to do in Castagnola. When you're here, check out Museum of Modern Art, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Castagnola?
Funicolare Monte Brè - Cassarate Station and Mount Brè are two awesome places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Castagnola while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Castagnola?
Museum of Modern Art is one of the top tourist attractions in Castagnola and deserves a spot on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Castagnola?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city attractions, like Museum of Modern Art, Art Museum Lugano and Gabriele and Anna Braglia Foundation. The average stay in Castagnola is two days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, Como isn't far away.
Is Castagnola a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to see and do in Castagnola. Several key attractions, such as Museum of Modern Art and Art Museum Lugano, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Castagnola's neighbourhoods, Lugano City-Centre is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Aldesago is 0.64 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Castagnola with kids?
If you are after sights and tours for all of your group, check out these great ideas for what to do in Castagnola with kids.

What to do in Castagnola for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of Mother Nature, there are plenty of things to do in Castagnola for adults including Museo delle Dogane Svizzere.
Are there free things to do in Castagnola?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Castagnola. If you're looking for inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. Art Museum Lugano is a must for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.