If you're a solo female traveler with a zest for adventure, fun activities, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Lugano in Ticino, Switzerland, offers an irresistible blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're planning a short-term rental stay, a relaxing holiday, or an active vacation with friends, this Swiss city combines the best of Swiss precision and Italian charm to give you a truly memorable escape. Here's your ultimate guide to 10 hidden gems that you must visit during your stay in Lugano, perfect for those seeking unique places to stay, local experiences, and things to do that resonate with your lively and flirty heart.
1. Secret Gardens of Villa Ciani
First on your list should be exploring the lush serenity of the Villa Ciani Gardens. These serene public gardens are nestled in the heart of Lugano and offer a peaceful escape from the busy city center. As a single female traveler, you’ll love wandering through the elegant pathways, enjoying the colorful flower beds, and taking in panoramic views of Lake Lugano. It’s also a fantastic spot for some Instagram-worthy photos to share your holiday moments with friends.
Looking for a cozy place to stay nearby? Search and Stay (https://www.searchandstay.com/properties?search[country]=Switzerland&search[state]=Ticino&search[city]=Lugano District&search[suburb]=Lugano) offers a range of short-term rentals close to these beautiful gardens, perfect for a fun, flirty holiday with friends or a solo retreat.
2. Monte Brè - The Little Mountain with Big Views
For active travelers who love hiking and breathtaking vistas, Monte Brè is a must-visit destination. Reachable by funicular, Monte Brè provides panoramic views of Lugano, Lake Lugano, and the surrounding Alps. This mountain trail is perfect for a morning hike or an afternoon of outdoor activities with friends, offering incredible photo ops and a chance to reconnect with nature.
After your adventure, consider a stay at a charming chalet or a local inn along the mountain trails. To find your perfect holiday rental or short term accommodation in the area, check out Search and Stay.
3. Gandria - The Charming Lakeside Village
Imagine wandering through cobbled streets, discovering colorful houses, and savoring authentic Swiss-Italian cuisine — that’s what you’ll get in Gandria. This hidden jewel on the Lake Lugano shoreline feels like stepping back in time. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely day trip, exploring boutique shops, or enjoying some local experiences, like cooking classes or boat rentals.
For your holiday rental here, consider renting a lakeside apartment that allows you to stay in the heart of the action, with the convenience of local activities and things to do just outside your door.
4. Parco Ciani - Lugano’s Largest Public Park
Relax, unwind, and soak up the sun at Parco Ciani. This expansive park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering shaded walking paths, elegant botanical gardens, and stunning views of Lake Lugano. It’s the ideal place for a flirty picnic, a peaceful reading spot, or a scenic stroll after a day of exploring.
Stay nearby in cozy accommodation options that offer the convenience of being in the city center but close enough for spontaneous lakefront activities. Check out Search and Stay for options suited to your holiday style.
5. The Swiss Miniatur Wonderland
If you love quirky, fun activities and things to do that involve a bit of playful exploration, don’t miss the Swiss Miniatur Wonderland. This outdoor amusement park features detailed miniature models of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a playful and engaging experience, perfect for a day trip with friends or a solo adventure to indulge your curiosity.
Combine this with a cozy, fun holiday rental close to the park to maximize your sightseeing and local experiences.
6. The Lugano Art Museum - Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana
Art lovers will find inspiration at the Lugano Art Museum, which hosts a vibrant collection of Swiss and Italian works. It provides a glimpse into the regional artistic heritage, perfect for inspiring your own creative side during your holiday. Visiting the museum is a delightful way to immerse yourself in local culture and history, and it’s a great activity to add to your things to do list.
After a cultural immersion, unwind in the nearby boutique hotels or short-term rentals to reflect on your experience and plan your next adventure.
7. The Olive Grove Trail & Local Olive Oil Tasting
Active and flirty travelers will love taking a scenic walk along the Olive Grove Trail, which winds through terraces of historic olive trees. Combine the hike with a local olive oil tasting experience to learn about the region's culinary traditions and indulge your senses. This unique activity offers a deep connection with local culture and a fun way to enjoy nature.
Looking for holiday accommodation that puts you in proximity to these experiences? Use Search and Stay to find the perfect stay option to complement your active holiday.
8. Lugano’s Vibrant Nightlife & Flirty Evenings
After days filled with outdoor activities and sightseeing, dive into Lugano’s vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re visiting chic bars, cozy cafes, or lively nightclubs, the city offers plenty of places to stay in the heart of the action. Enjoy local wines, craft cocktails, and fun conversations with new friends.
Choose a holiday rental or boutique hotel close to the city center for easy access to the best things to do in the evenings. For your stay, explore options on Search and Stay.
9. The Hidden Waterfalls of Val Colla
For those who love exploring nature’s hidden secrets, the waterfalls of Val Colla are a true treasure. Tucked away in the surrounding mountains, these cascading falls and remote trails promise a fun adventure for active explorers. Pack your hiking boots and discover a side of Lugano that many tourists never see.
Stay in an eco-friendly cabin or mountain lodge nearby, and use your base to enjoy local activities like guided hikes or photography excursions. Use Search and Stay to find the best rentals suited to your energetic holidays.
10. The Embankment Promenade & Lake Activities
No trip to Lugano is complete without experiencing the lively lakeside atmosphere. The Embankment Promenade is perfect for an active day of cycling, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply strolling while enjoying the views. It’s an ideal place to meet fellow travelers, share your fun adventures, and enjoy the local experiences.
Pick a holiday stay within walking distance or with direct access to the lake to maximize your fun. Remember, Lugano's lakefront is also dotted with cafes and spots to rent equipment for your favorite watersports.
There’s no better way to enjoy Lugano than by staying in accommodations that put you at the center of the action. Whether you prefer a modern short-term rental, a cozy holiday apartment, or a stylish boutique hotel, explore your options at Search and Stay. Discover local experiences, things to do, and hidden gems that will transform your trip into an unforgettable adventure filled with fun, flirty moments, and active pursuits.