The city with some of Europe’s best food – including world’s best tiramisu

WHETHER you want to sip Aperol spritz in the old town, mountain bike through the Alps or relax at a lakefront thermal spa, Lugano has it all.

Just across the Swiss border on the shores of Lake Lugano, the city can be easily reached by train from Milan airport (with fares starting at just £11).

In fact it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend away . . . 

WHY SHOULD I GO?

This Swiss city has all the romance of the Italian lakes — think sweeping mountain views and waterfront ­restaurants — on a much more ­wallet-friendly budget.

Unlike A-lister haunt Lake Como, where Madonna, George Clooney and Richard Branson have owned villas, a trip to Lugano won’t break the bank.

STREETS MADE FOR WALKING?

There’s no better way to take in the mountain views than with a stroll around Lugano’s historic port.

Before it became part of Switzerland, the region was under the control of Como and Milan for more than 500 years.

So as well as magnificent natural beauty, the city also has plenty of Italian architecture.

While you’re exploring, make sure you pay a visit to the lush Parco Ciani, a lakefront garden with manicured lawns, winding paths and views across the water.

And for those who like a challenge, there’s no shortage of hiking trails around the lake.

On the way up nearby peaks Monte Bre and Monte San Salvatore, you’ll find native swallows nesting in fig trees, as well as views across the craggy Alpine valley.

Alternatively, you can hike along the shoreline to the picturesque town of Morcote, which was voted Switzerland’s prettiest in 2016.

Don’t fancy the walk? Never fear. You can access Morcote easily by ferry.

ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST?

No trip to Europe’s lake district would be complete without a dip in the water.

Head to the Lido Riva Caccia (just 15 minutes’ walk from the centre of town), where you’ll find tourists and locals swimming in the lake.

The view of the Alps rising up around you is unforgettable, and the lake waters are surprisingly balmy, reaching 25C in the summer.

Fancy something a bit more luxurious?

Then head to the Termali Salini & Spa in the neighbouring Locarno (just 20 minutes on the train), where you can take in panoramic mountain views while floating in saltwater Jacuzzis.

The only way you could feel more relaxed is with a full body massage — which the staff at Termali Salini are more than happy to provide.

WHERE SHOULD I EAT?

All that walking and swimming is sure to work up an appetite.

Lucky for you, Lugano has some of the best food in Europe.

Local guide Patricia Carminati claims they have the best of the north (think Swiss chocolate and Alpine strudel) and the best of the south (Italian cheese and pasta) — need I say more?

You can put Patricia’s claim to the test by joining her on a food and wine tour of Lugano, sampling all the best traditional restaurants, known as grottos, and local produce the city has to offer.

If it’s a quick bite you’re after, head to local institution Gabbani, a family-run deli that has been serving cured meats, fresh pasta and many more local delicacies since 1937.

Grab a panini or a slice of pizza hot from the oven and enjoy it in the baroque old town square.

As for dessert, you’ll find no shortage of shops flogging doorstop slabs of Swiss chocolate.

Alternatively, head to Pasticceria La Colombina for its famous tiramisu, voted best in the world in 2021.

I FANCY A DRINK . . . 

You’ll find plenty of bars and cafes on the main square, Piazza Della Riforma, where you can enjoy an Aperol spritz or a glass of the regional speciality, white merlot.

The wine bar in the Quartiere Maghetti has especially fine options to choose from, while the baroque Grand Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a hot chocolate or espresso.

For a more unique drinking experience, hop on the ferry to the Casino di Campione just across the lake.

This tiny Italian town is built around a glamorous waterfront casino where revellers can while the night away.

And if all those wines and cocktails leave you with a sore head the next day, you can soothe your hangover with a glass of mandarin lemonade — or, as the locals call it, “poor man’s champagne”.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY?

For spectacular lake views a stone’s throw from the centre of town, check into the Villa Sassa Hotel and Spa.

With balconies offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley and an outdoor pool overlooking the town, there’s no better spot from which to soak up Lugano’s magical mountain setting.