Locarno Travel Tips: How To Explore Switzerland’s Sunniest Town

Sunny fairy tale Locarno: a city where mountains and a lake meet

Locarno is not just another Swiss town. It is special: here the Mediterranean climate, palm trees and flowering gardens harmoniously contrast with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. With more than 2,300 hours of sunshine a year, Locarno is considered the sunniest city in Switzerland. The first impression upon arrival is lightness and a warm atmosphere, as if you were somewhere between Italy and Switzerland.

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Natural and historical beauties

Lake panorama

The main pride of Locarno is Lago Maggiore. The surface of the lake reflects the mountains and colorful houses of the embankment. In summer, you can rent a boat here (from CHF 25/hour), take a SUP board or just walk along the shore.

Old Town and Stone Bridges

A walk through the narrow streets of the old center is like traveling back in time. Here I came across several ancient stone bridges that I managed to photograph – wonderful Instagram locations. They look especially atmospheric in the evening, when the lights are turned on.

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Culture and Science

Solar Observatory Specola Solare Ticinese

This is a place for those interested in astronomy. The observatory specializes in observing the Sun and even participates in international scientific programs. Although the observatory is not always open to the public, its majestic building is worth a visit. Admission is free, but you need to register in advance.

Grand Hotel Locarno

No less impressive is the Grand Hotel Locarno, which opened in 1876. This historic building is currently undergoing restoration, but still makes a strong impression – an example of Swiss Belle Époque elegance. It was once a luxury hotel, and looking at it, you can only imagine how luxurious it will be once it’s been restored.

Madonna del Sasso – a Sanctuary Above the City

The famous Sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso towers over Locarno – a Franciscan monastery and church founded in the 15th century after the monk Bartolomeo had an apparition of the Virgin Mary. Today, it is not only a spiritual center, but also one of the best viewpoints in the city.

The monastery can be reached in several ways:

• on foot along a narrow path through the forest and stone steps (approx. 20 minutes from the center);
• by the Locarno–Madonna del Sasso funicular (CHF 7 one-way, CHF 11 round trip).

The terrace offers a panoramic view of Lago Maggiore and the old town. Inside, you can see impressive frescoes, ancient icons and a calm atmosphere that contrasts with the tourist bustle on the waterfront.

Tip: come in the evening before sunset – then the views from Madonna del Sasso look especially magical, and the light softly illuminates the lake and mountains.

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Gastronomic Discoveries

Locarno is a foodie’s paradise. If you’re looking for a place to dine, here are a few tried-and-true places to visit:

Perbacco Bar Ristorante Pizzeria (at Hotel City Locarno).

This restaurant has a high Google rating of 4.5 out of 5, and for good reason. Enjoy dinner on the summer terrace, try their delicious cocktails, or order vegan dishes. Pizza prices range from CHF 14.50 to 27.50 (approx. $18 – $35), which is quite reasonable for Switzerland. By the way, prices at Hotel City Locarno itself start at CHF 150 (approx. $190) per night (breakfast included).

Restaurant Terrace at Hotel dell’Angelo.

If you stay at this hotel, you will receive a 10% discount at the restaurant. The special feature of this place is the Grottino – a stylized grotto in the basement, which can be booked for small groups of up to 15 people. Rooms at the hotel start from CHF 100 (approx. $125) per night.

Ristorante Bar Funicolare

Located next to the funicular to Madonna del Sasso. The terrace offers a gorgeous view of Locarno and the lake. Main courses from CHF 18–25 (approx. from $20), pasta – about CHF 20 (approx. $25).

Sweet stops

In the Italo-Swiss region, it is impossible to avoid gelato and pastries. A scoop of ice cream in Locarno costs about CHF 3 (approx. $3.50), cappuccino in a cafe – CHF 4.80–5.50 (approx. $6).

I recommend trying the local croissants with cream — around CHF 2.50–3 (approx. $3.50).

Useful tips and practical information

Prices in Coop or Migros Supermarkets

• Pesto Ricotta — CHF 3.90 (approx. $5);
• Pesto Basilico — CHF 3.20 (approx. $4);
• Gherkins (330g jar) — CHF 2.95 (approx. $3.60).

Prices are higher than in neighboring Italy, but the quality is guaranteed Swiss.

How to Get to Locarno

• From Zurich: direct train Zürich HB – Locarno (approx. 2 hours 10 minutes). Ticket price — from CHF 32–40 (approx. $35) one way (if purchased in advance via SBB.ch).
  From Geneva: train Geneva – Locarno with a change in Zurich or Bellinzona. Travel time is 3.5–4 hours, and the ticket costs from CHF 60–70 (approx. $75).

• How to save: Buy train tickets in advance on the SBB website. If you plan to visit several cities, a real lifesaver will be the Swiss Travel Pass. Imagine it as an analogue of the our CityPASS, but for the whole of Switzerland. For one price you get unlimited access to trains, buses and boats throughout the country, as well as free entry to over 500 museums. This can significantly reduce the cost of transportation and allow you to travel without unnecessary worries.

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Conclusion

Locarno is a combination of Swiss precision and Italian ease. Sun, palm trees, an old town, delicious restaurants and cozy hotels make it the perfect place for a short trip or a longer vacation. If you are planning to visit Switzerland, be sure to include Locarno in your itinerary – you will get more than you expect.

Have you been to Locarno yet? Share your impressions in the comments!