Locarno, Switzerland Travel Guide

Discover Locarno, Switzerland's sunniest city, where Mediterranean charm meets Alpine beauty, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

Nestled on the northern shores of Lake Maggiore, Locarno is a picturesque Swiss city that boasts a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and Alpine beauty. With its sunny climate and stunning landscapes, it is a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. Explore the charming old town, where narrow cobblestone streets wind past historic buildings, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. The Piazza Grande, the heart of the city, is famous for hosting the annual Locarno Film Festival, attracting cinephiles from around the world. For a touch of history, visit the Castello Visconteo, a medieval castle that offers a glimpse into the region's past. Nature enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to hike in the nearby valleys or take a leisurely boat ride on the serene waters of Lake Maggiore. Don't miss the stunning views from the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso, perched high above the city. Whether you're relaxing by the lake, exploring the mountains, or delving into the local culture, Locarno promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Locarno.

Visit during the Locarno Film Festival in August for a unique cultural experience.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the old town's cobblestone streets.
Take a boat trip on Lake Maggiore to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
Hike to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso for breathtaking views of the city and lake.
Try local specialties like risotto and polenta at one of the traditional restaurants.

Explore Locarno: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Locarno

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Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta - Duomo di Como

Discover the beauty of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, a stunning Gothic cathedral in the heart of Como, rich in history and architectural wonder.

4.7

Orrido di Bellano

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Orrido di Bellano, a natural gorge with stunning waterfalls and scenic trails in the heart of Italy.

4.4

Parco Ciani

Experience the tranquil beauty of Parco Ciani, a must-visit park in Lugano, Switzerland, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

4.7

Lake Como

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como, where stunning landscapes and charming villages create the perfect escape in Northern Italy.

4.8

Best landmarks in Locarno

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Piazza Grande

Explore Piazza Grande, Locarno's vibrant heart, where stunning architecture, lively events, and local flavors come together in a picturesque pedestrian zone.

4.5

Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo

Experience the grandeur of the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, a breathtaking landmark in Arona, Italy, offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

4.3

Madonna del Ghisallo

Discover the spiritual and cycling heritage at Madonna del Ghisallo, a stunning shrine offering breathtaking views and a unique cultural experience.

4.6

Porta Torre

Discover Porta Torre in Como, a captivating medieval tower that offers stunning views and a deep dive into the city's rich heritage.

4.3

Best restaurants in Locarno

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Ristorante Sensi

Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Ristorante Sensi in Muralto Locarno.

4.4

Ristorante Bar Lungolago

Discover exquisite Italian cuisine and refreshing cocktails at Ristorante Bar Lungolago, where stunning lake views meet culinary excellence.

4.1

BLU Restaurant & Lounge

Experience a culinary journey at BLU Restaurant & Lounge in Locarno with Mediterranean and Japanese delights amidst an inviting atmosphere.

4.4

Ristorante Oldrati

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Oldrati in Muralto—where delicious pizzas meet stunning lakeside views.

4.0

Best bars in Locarno

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BLU Restaurant & Lounge

Discover a unique blend of Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine at BLU Restaurant & Lounge in Locarno, where every meal is a delightful experience.

4.4

Pardo Bar

Experience the lively atmosphere and exceptional drinks at Pardo Bar, the heart of Locarno's vibrant social scene.

4.2

Bar Castello

Discover the lively ambiance of Bar Castello, a top bar in Locarno, Switzerland, where great drinks meet unforgettable experiences.

4.4

La Bottega del Vino

Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at La Bottega del Vino, Locarno's charming restaurant and wine bar.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Locarno

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Bar Castello

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Castello in Locarno, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.4

Bar Mono

Experience Locarno's vibrant nightlife at Bar Mono, where handcrafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.

4.4

Club Seventy7

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Ascona at Club Seventy7, where dance and music come alive in a stylish and vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Bar Festival

Experience Locarno's vibrant nightlife at Bar Festival, where delicious cocktails and lively ambiance create unforgettable memories.

4.5

Best shops in Locarno

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FoxTown Factory Stores

Explore FoxTown Factory Stores, a premier outlet mall in Mendrisio with unbeatable discounts on luxury brands and a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

4.2

Mercato Coperto di Como

Discover the Mercato Coperto di Como, a bustling produce market offering fresh local flavors and an authentic Italian culinary experience.

4.2

MANOR Locarno

Experience the vibrant shopping scene at MANOR Locarno, where fashion, home goods, and unique finds await in a picturesque setting.

4.2

Ochsner Shoes

Discover the ultimate shopping destination for footwear and fashion in Locarno, where style meets quality at Ochsner Shoes.

4.1

Explore Locarno on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Locarno, mapped for you.

Locarno Essentials

Locarno is accessible via multiple modes of transportation. The closest major airport is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) in Italy, approximately 120 kilometers away. From there, you can take a direct train to Locarno, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, Zurich Airport (ZRH) is another option, with a train journey to Locarno taking roughly 3 hours. If traveling by car, Locarno is accessible via the A2 motorway from the north and the A13 from the east. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) offers frequent train services from major Swiss cities to Locarno.
Locarno offers various transportation options for travelers. The town is well-connected by public transport, including buses and trains. The local bus network, operated by FART (Ferrovie Autolinee Regionali Ticinesi), covers most areas of the town and its surroundings. For a scenic experience, consider taking the Centovalli Railway, which connects Locarno to Domodossola in Italy. Taxis are readily available, and car rentals can be arranged at the train station or via major rental agencies. Many of Locarno's attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.
The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout Locarno, and many accept international cards. For smaller purchases, especially in local markets or smaller establishments, it is advisable to carry some cash. Currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange offices.
Locarno is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any tourist destination, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but standard safety precautions should always be taken.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Locarno has a well-equipped hospital, the Ospedale Regionale di Locarno, for medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For police assistance, you can contact the local police station.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting cultural sites. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and beachwear in restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and avoid making loud noises. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Grüezi' in Swiss German or 'Buongiorno' in Italian. A handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like polenta and risotto. Don’t forget to tip, as it’s customary to round up the bill.
To experience Locarno like a local, visit the weekly market at Piazza Grande where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share their culture. Don’t miss the Locarno Film Festival held every August, which attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. For a unique experience, take a boat trip on Lake Maggiore to explore the nearby Brissago Islands.

When is the best time to visit Locarno?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Locarno

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Locarno. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-voh-reh/preh-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsee-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusi/Mi dispiace
  [skoo-zee/mee dees-pyah-cheh]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stah-ee]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vy vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kyah-mah lah poh-lee-tsya]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un medico!
  [kyah-mah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
- I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-reh-ee kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwah-ee ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preht-soh]
- What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-noh leh dee-eh-chee eh meht-sah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [seh-ee]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oh-ttoh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-veh]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tsoh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee mohs-trahr-mee soo-lah mahp-pah]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-see-moh ow-toh-boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyet-toh pehr]

History of Locarno

Locarno's origins date back to the Neolithic period, with archaeological evidence revealing early human settlements in the area. The city later came under Roman influence, becoming a significant point along the important trade routes of the Roman Empire. Artifacts like coins, pottery, and the remains of Roman buildings testify to the region's integration into the ancient empire.
During the medieval period, Locarno flourished as a center of commerce and trade, largely due to its strategic position near important Alpine passes. The city came under the control of the Visconti family from Milan in the 14th century, which brought both stability and prosperity. The Visconti erected the Castello Visconteo, a fortification that still stands today as a testament to their influence.
The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought significant religious upheaval to Locarno. The city became a refuge for Protestant exiles from Italy, leading to conflict with the predominantly Catholic population. This strained coexistence was eventually resolved by the forced expulsion of the Protestant community in 1555, an event that marked a significant turning point in Locarno's religious landscape.
In the aftermath of World War I, Locarno gained international prominence with the signing of the Locarno Treaties in 1925. These agreements were aimed at ensuring peace in Western Europe by securing borders and fostering reconciliation between Germany and its neighbors. The treaties were signed at the Palazzo del Casinò, and their legacy is a key chapter in Locarno's 20th-century history.
Established in 1946, the Locarno Film Festival has grown into one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. Held annually in August, the festival attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from around the globe. Its open-air screenings in the Piazza Grande create a unique cinematic experience, further solidifying Locarno's cultural significance on the international stage.
Today, Locarno is a vibrant city that blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. The picturesque lakeside promenade, charming old town, and numerous cultural events make it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The city's commitment to preserving its historical sites while fostering contemporary culture ensures that Locarno remains a unique and captivating place to visit.