What to do in Paradiso

Straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, Lake Lugano offers the best of both countries. Enjoy its year-round Mediterranean climate and sparkling blue waters while majestic snowcapped mountains beckon in the distance.

Villa del Balbianello is set in a commanding location on the edge of a wooded promontory that juts out from the coastline. Stroll around the handsome building befitting this striking setting and find well-landscaped gardens and an interesting museum.

Villa Olmo is a magnificent late 18th-century neoclassical mansion overlooking the southwestern arm of Lake Como. Today, the former home of aristocrats and the wealthy elite is now a venue for important art exhibitions and other cultural activities. See works by great European artists and then enjoy a stroll through its beautiful baroque garden.

The Funicular Como-Brunate is an historic funicular railway that connects the lakeside town of Como with the pretty alpine village of Brunate. Admire sweeping views of Lake Como and rugged hills as you climb, and then traverse the countryside surrounding Brunate.

Visit Locarno’s town center, Piazza Grande, a rambling 19th-century square that was once occupied by the waters of Lake Maggiore. Today, picturesque buildings and important landmarks line the historic square. Each August it is transformed into one of the world’s premier open-air cinemas during the Locarno Film Festival. A trip to Locarno isn’t complete without a day spent meandering across the cobbled surface of the enormous square.