Hotels in Locarno

Embrace the Serenity: Unveiling Locarno's Enchanted Lakeside Heritage

Nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Locarno in the Canton of Ticino is a stunning blend of nature and culture. This charming town, with its Mediterranean flair, offers visitors breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and the enchanting landscapes of Valle Verzasca. Explore the historic center, where cobbled streets lead to quaint cafes and vibrant markets. Don’t miss the Falconeria Locarno for an unforgettable experience with birds of prey. With its serene lakeside ambiance and rich archaeological sites, Locarno is a romantic escape that captures the heart of every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Locarno, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Locarno

Some of the best places to stay in Locarno are Lugano City-Centre, Carona and Breganzona. Lugano City-Centre, Carona, and Breganzona offer unique experiences for travelers in Canton of Ticino. Lugano City-Centre is perfect for first-time visitors, boasting vibrant shops, restaurants, and beautiful lakeside views. Carona features charming, tranquil surroundings and stunning hiking trails, while Breganzona provides a more residential feel with local culture. Accommodations range from luxury hotels in the city center to cozy lodges and apartments in Carona and Breganzona, ensuring a variety of options for every traveler’s preference. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Locarno:

1. Lugano City-CentreOpens in a new window: Lugano City-Centre is a vibrant area known for its outdoor activities and cultural experiences. With attractions like Palazzo dei Congressi for business events, Via Nassa for shopping, and LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura for art lovers, it’s an ideal spot for both leisure and work. Luxury hotels like Hotel Splendide RoyalOpens in a new window offer adventure-themed experiences with business amenities, while Villa Principe LeopoldoOpens in a new window caters to those traveling with pets, featuring multiple meeting spaces. For boutique experiences, The View LuganoOpens in a new window provides a family-friendly atmosphere with unique decor and children’s amenities.
2. CaronaOpens in a new window: Nestled in scenic surroundings, Carona is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Key attractions include Swissminiatur, a miniature park, and Monte San Salvatore, offering breathtaking views. For a comfortable stay, Hotel CoronadoOpens in a new window provides business amenities and pet-friendly options. Lo Scudo di StabioOpens in a new window focuses on adventure activities like horse riding and offers coworking spaces, while Swiss Diamond Hotel & SPAOpens in a new window is a luxurious option for golf enthusiasts, featuring excellent business facilities.
3. BreganzonaOpens in a new window: Breganzona is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a mix of business and leisure. With attractions like Palazzo dei Congressi and LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura, it’s well-suited for those with professional commitments. Giardino AsconaOpens in a new window is ideal for family stays and offers golf experiences, while Castello del Sole Beach Resort & SPAOpens in a new window features direct beach access and natural hot springs, making it a wonderful retreat. For adventure seekers, Hotel Eden RocOpens in a new window provides thrilling activities and comprehensive business services, ensuring a balanced stay.

What to do in Locarno

A three-day visit to Locarno offers a perfect getaway to enjoy stunning lakeside views, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Travelers can indulge in outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and diving, while also exploring vibrant shopping areas, exciting festivals, and the thrill of nearby casinos. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Locarno:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Madonna del Sasso, perched high above Locarno, where stunning views of the surrounding landscape await. After soaking in the spiritual ambiance and scenery, head to the Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna. Here, immerse yourself in contemporary art that reflects the region's rich culture. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the Giardini Pubblici, where beautifully landscaped gardens provide a tranquil escape. Enjoy the charming atmosphere and perhaps unwind with a coffee as you take in the sights.
• Day 2: Start your day at the lovely Ascona Beach, where you can relax by the lakeside or take a dip in Lake Maggiore. Next, explore the vibrant Galleria Borgo, where you can browse through local shops and art galleries. Don’t miss the chance to savor a delicious lunch in one of the quaint cafes. In the afternoon, venture up to Monte Verità, a historic hill that offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the artistic and philosophical movements that shaped the region.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a visit to the impressive Verzasca Dam, known for its stunning architecture and thrilling bungee jumping opportunities. Next, make your way to Mount Cardada, where you can hike or take a cable car to enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Finally, visit Casa Ghisler, an architectural gem that showcases the unique style of the region. This enchanting house provides insight into local history and culture, making it a perfect conclusion to your exciting itinerary.

5 tips to find a great Locarno hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Locarno is during January, February, and November when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure great value for money. Spending at least 2-3 days in Locarno is perfect for exploring its key attractions, including the stunning lake and fascinating archaeological sites. This way, you can enjoy an enriching experience without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Locarno, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find attractive rates on hotels as your travel date approaches, with good availability across various accommodations. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you're more likely to snag a fantastic hotel deal in Locarno without missing out on any opportunities to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may increase your chances of saving on hotel expenses in Locarno.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Locarno usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, trains, and buses to explore the area, which is more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Locarno and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Locarno

Here are a few top restaurants to try in Locarno, Canton of Ticino, Switzerland:

• Bubo Locarno: This popular spot offers a modern twist on traditional Ticinese cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage. Diners can expect a menu that highlights seasonal flavors and creative presentations, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
• Caffè Bartolomeo: A vibrant café known for its exceptional coffee and artisanal pastries, Caffè Bartolomeo also serves a selection of local dishes that celebrate the flavors of Ticino. This culinary gem is perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack.
• Osteria Borghese: With a focus on authentic Ticinese recipes, Osteria Borghese presents a menu that showcases the region's culinary traditions while embracing modern techniques. Diners can savor dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients that highlight the unique flavors of the area.

Best time to go to Locarno

Locarno experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.6°F (-3.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 61.7°F (16.5°C). August is usually the wettest month. April, July, and August are the peak travel months in Locarno, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.