10 Hidden Gems That Make Life in Ticino Truly Unique

Relocating to Ticino is more than a strategic move—it’s the beginning of a new lifestyle. Whether you’re arriving from Zurich, Milan, London or beyond, settling in this region of southern Switzerland offers an experience that goes far deeper than tax planning, residence permits or property searches. It’s about discovering a way of life shaped by alpine calm, Mediterranean beauty, and cultural richness.

Ticino rewards those who explore slowly. Beyond the well-known lakeside cities of Lugano, Locarno and Mendrisio, this canton reveals itself through its lesser-known villages, quiet valleys, botanical treasures and panoramic viewpoints. Each destination invites new residents to build emotional connections with the landscape, the people and the rhythm of local life.

For professionals relocating to Lugano, families moving to the Lake Maggiore region, or remote workers seeking a balance between nature and accessibility, these ten locations represent some of the most inspiring and rewarding corners of the region. They are places where time slows down, stories unfold, and integration happens naturally.

Morcote — Elegance on Lake Lugano

Morcote is a postcard-perfect lakeside village often regarded as one of the most beautiful in Switzerland. Lined with porticos, terraced gardens, and narrow alleys that descend toward the lake, it offers timeless beauty within easy reach of Lugano. It’s not just a weekend destination—it’s a glimpse into a quieter, refined way of living, rooted in history and nature. For those relocating to Ticino, Morcote serves as an invitation to embrace both sophistication and simplicity.

The Castles of Bellinzona — Heritage You Can Walk Through

Bellinzona, the capital of the canton, offers something extraordinary: three medieval castles that are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro are more than historical symbols—they are open-air museums with spectacular views, walking paths, and seasonal events. Whether for cultural immersion, weekend family outings, or simply understanding the layers of Ticino’s past, these sites remain essential for anyone making a long-term home here.

Verzasca Valley — Pure Nature, Deep Stillness

Just outside Locarno lies the Verzasca Valley, one of the most iconic and evocative alpine landscapes in the region. Known for its emerald waters and the photogenic stone bridge in Lavertezzo, the valley rewards deeper exploration. Small villages like Corippo and trails that lead to La Froda waterfall offer a more intimate encounter with the valley’s natural soul. For those who choose to live in Ticino, it provides both a peaceful escape and a chance to reconnect with nature in a way that few places can offer.

Brissago Islands — A Subtropical Haven

Situated on Lake Maggiore, the Brissago Islands are home to Switzerland’s only botanical garden on an island. With over 1,500 plant species from subtropical regions around the world, this destination is a sanctuary for those who appreciate biodiversity, quiet beauty and thoughtful design. The islands represent a different facet of Ticino—one of sensory abundance and Mediterranean softness, ideal for long strolls and gentle discovery.

Camellia Park & Parco San Grato — Springtime in Full Color

Spring in Ticino is best experienced through its flowering landscapes. Locarno’s Camellia Park is one of Europe’s most important camellia gardens, located directly on the lakeside and bursting into bloom each March. Meanwhile, above Carona, Parco San Grato overlooks the lake with trails framed by azaleas, magnolias and panoramic vistas. These floral parks are perfect for weekend escapes and offer peaceful retreats for newcomers looking to integrate beauty and calm into everyday life.

Centovalli and Valle Maggia — Rugged, Wild, Real

These two valleys are among the most impressive in Ticino for their raw, unspoiled beauty. Centovalli offers dramatic gorges, chestnut woods and stone hamlets reached by a scenic railway, while Valle Maggia is famous for its waterfalls, swimming holes, and alpine trails. Whether you’re into hiking, wild swimming or simply seeking places far from mass tourism, these valleys provide a grounding experience for those building new roots in the region.

Gandria — Mediterranean Spirit on the Water

A former fishing village nestled between the lake and the mountains, Gandria is reachable by boat or on foot from central Lugano. Its narrow alleys, flowered balconies and lakeside grottoes feel almost untouched by time. This is one of the closest escapes from urban life and a place to truly feel the Swiss-Italian soul of the region. For expats living in Lugano, it’s a reminder of why they chose to live by the water, in a region where tradition and lifestyle meet naturally.

Tremorgio and Leìt Lakes — Accessible Alpine Wonder

Some alpine destinations require hours of hiking—these do not. The lakes of Tremorgio and Leìt are easily reached by cable car from the Leventina valley, offering high-altitude beauty with minimal effort. Reflective waters, walking paths, and rustic mountain lodges make them a great choice for families, guests from abroad, or anyone seeking fresh air and quiet views without major planning. They’re also ideal for discovering the diversity of landscapes available within just a short drive from Ticino’s urban centers.

Monte Brè and San Salvatore — Icons of the Lugano Skyline

These two mountains are emblematic of the city and offer some of the best views in all of Switzerland. Easily accessible by funicular, they are perfect for short hikes, mountain biking, photography or dining with a view. As a newcomer to Lugano, you’ll likely visit these peaks often—first as a tourist, then as someone who begins to call this place home. They are part of the rhythm of local life and help define the experience of living near the lake.

Bosco Gurin — Alpine Heritage and Quiet Reflection

Bosco Gurin is the highest village in Ticino and the only one where German (Walser dialect) is still spoken. With its wooden chalets, alpine pastures and preserved traditions, it feels like a place from another era. Whether visiting in summer for hiking and cultural discovery, or in winter for peaceful snowshoeing and slow travel, Bosco Gurin represents the depth and diversity of what Ticino has to offer beyond the mainstream. It’s where those who seek a quieter, more contemplative life will feel truly at home.

Ticino, a Region That Builds Belonging

Moving to Ticino is not only a change of address—it’s a transformation in how you experience space, time and connection. From quiet lakefront villages to high mountain paths, this region doesn’t reveal itself all at once. But with every weekend walk, market visit or scenic drive, it begins to feel more like home.

For those relocating from abroad—whether temporarily or for the long haul—these ten destinations offer more than beauty. They offer perspective, balance and a real sense of place.

Need help planning your move to Ticino?

Whether you’re in the early stages or already here, we offer personalised support at every step—residence permits, tax strategies, real estate search, school selection, and cultural integration. We help individuals, families and professionals make their transition to Ticino smooth, informed and enriching.

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