As someone who grew up surrounded by waters, I found my first Switzerland experience more than a pleasant experience. My German-Swiss partner chose this destination as part of our week-long road trip that started from home (Munich) then to Jesolo, Venice, Lake Como, and then Lugano. I didn’t expect much, but oh boy oh boy, all the adjectives Switzerland is known for came to mind. Lugano left me sighing with content and happiness: the lakeside residence and properties illuminates the lake, and the lake has this different shades of blue that never fails to induce some nostalgia in me. And to lessen your burden in preparing for your Lugano trip, I scoured the Internet for the best hotels in Lugano, be it near Lugano Lake or be it budget.

Quick Lugano Accommodation Guide

Our Bias: Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola
The Best Lake Lugano Hotel: Hotel Riviera
The Best Hotel for Couples: Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola
The Best Budget Hotel for Families: Hotel Nassa Garni
The Best Budget Hotel for Couples: Hotel Dischma
The Best Budget Hotel for Solo Travelers: Locanda Del Conventino

If you’re curious what we did in our three-night stay in Lugano, Switzerland, check out our very own Monte San Salvatore experience and how we squeezed everything (Monte San Salvatore, trekking, swimming, boat ride, lovely dinner at Central Lugano, and lovely evening walk at the gorgeous Lugano promenade) in one day in Lugano

Ideal Neighborhoods to Stay in Lugano for First-Time Visitors

1. Paradiso: Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Lugano, Paradiso offers stunning views and easy access to the city center. Enjoy upscale accommodations, waterfront promenades, and excellent dining options.
2. Lugano City Center: Immerse yourself in the heart of Lugano by staying in the city center. Here, you’ll find a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with bustling streets, cultural attractions, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
3. Brè-Aldesago: For a tranquil escape with panoramic views, consider staying in Brè-Aldesago. Nestled in the hills above Lugano, this neighborhood offers peaceful surroundings, hiking trails, and a charming village atmosphere.
4. Montagnola: Located just outside Lugano, Montagnola offers a serene retreat surrounded by nature. Stay here for tranquil surroundings, lush greenery, and proximity to cultural attractions like Hermann Hesse Museum.

Neighborhoods to Avoid

1. Pregassona: While Pregassona is a residential area with some amenities, it lacks the charm and convenience of other neighborhoods in Lugano. It may not offer the same level of tourist attractions or accessibility to the city center.
2. Viganello: While Viganello has its own merits, including beautiful parks and historic sites, it’s situated farther from the city center and may not be as convenient for first-time visitors looking to explore Lugano’s main attractions.

Hotel Riviera: A Waterfront Tranquility in Melide, Lugano

When booking your room, be sure to inquire about a room with a view across the lake. This will give you a beautiful and relaxing view to wake up to each morning. Additionally, make sure the room is comfortable and quiet, so you can get a good night’s sleep and fully enjoy your stay.

One of the highlights of Hotel Riviera is the delicious breakfast and evening meal. Take advantage of these meals to fuel up for a day of exploring Lugano or wind down after a long day of sightseeing.

If you love swimming, you’ll be pleased to know that Hotel Riviera has a pool and a sun platform for you to enjoy. Take a dip in the pool to cool off on a hot day or swim in the lake from the sun platform to experience the beauty of the lake up close.

Lastly, the staff at Hotel Riviera are known for their wonderful and friendly service. They will go above and beyond to ensure that you have a pleasant and enjoyable stay. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for any questions or needs you may have during your stay.

Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola: Lakeside Romantic Getaway

If you’re a couple planning a romantic and luxurious getaway to Lugano, Switzerland, consider staying at the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola, one of the most highly recommended Lake Lugano hotels for couples.

This hotel has a lot to offer, with many areas to explore and amenities to enjoy. The pool, for example, is not only large but also super clean, making it a great place to cool off and relax in the sun. And for an even more indulgent experience, the spa is the perfect place to unwind. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing massage or some time in the sauna, the spa at Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola has everything you need.

When it comes to dining, the breakfast buffet is not to be missed. With a big selection of delicious food and attentive staff, you’re sure to start your day off right. And while some dishes, like eggs Benedict, cost extra, regular fried or boiled eggs are free. Plus, the coffee is great and the desserts are top notch.

The rooms at Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola are also something special. They’re spacious and feature an amazing selection of pillows, with pillow #3 being highly recommended. And everything is kept immaculately clean, ensuring that you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout your stay.

The View Lugano: This luxury hotel boasts stunning views of Lake Lugano

If you’re looking for a modern and luxurious stay in one of the best Lugano hotels, look no further than The View Lugano, located in Lugano-Paradiso just a 5-minute walk from Lake Lugano and the Monte San Salvatore Park.

The View Lugano offers spacious suites with free WiFi, free air conditioning, and stunning lake views from the furnished balconies. Each suite also includes a flat-screen TV, minibar, and elegant bathroom with free toiletries, a hairdryer, and bathrobes.

Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast served every morning, and enjoy dinner at the in-house à la carte restaurant. If you’re in the mood for some shopping or a drink, several shops and bars can be found within a few minutes’ walking distance.

For ultimate relaxation, head to the wellness area which features a sauna, hammam, indoor swimming pool, and fitness area. Massages can also be organized upon request for an additional charge.

Take advantage of the free e-bikes and electric smart cars available for exploring the area, or hop on one of the several cycling trails that start directly on the premises. Private parking spaces are available on site for an additional charge, and Lugano Train Station is just 2 km away.

Hotel Lido Seegarten: Amazing Breakfast Buffet, Gorgeous Lake Views

This is one of the top Lake Lugano hotels, offering stunning views and clean, comfortable rooms, along with nice facilities.

One of the highlights of your stay will surely be the breakfast buffet, which is extensive and thoughtful, with a gorgeous dining room right on the water. You can enjoy your meal while taking in the stunning views of the lake.

In addition to the great breakfast, Hotel Lido Seegarten also offers other facilities and amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Whether you want to relax on the terrace, take a dip in the pool, or explore the lake with a rented boat, there is something for everyone.

The hotel is also conveniently located close to several local attractions, such as the Lugano city center, Monte San Salvatore, and the Swiss Miniature Park. And if you’re flying in, the Lugano Airport is just a short drive away.

International au Lac Historic Lakeside Hotel

International au Lac Historic Lakeside Hotel is right in the heart of Lugano, right next to the lake.

Check-in is easy and the staff at the front desk are very friendly, making you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. You’ll love the room with a small balcony and a lake view, which is spacious and clean.

One of the highlights of your stay will be the delicious breakfast buffet, featuring a variety of items such as eggs, meat, cereal, cheese, and more. You’ll find something for everyone, making it the perfect way to start your day.

With its prime location, the International au Lac Historic Lakeside Hotel is the perfect base for exploring all that Lugano has to offer. Whether you want to shop, dine out, or take in the local attractions, everything is just a short walk away.

Overall, this is a fantastic hotel and we would definitely stay there again and recommend it to friends.

Suitenhotel Parco Paradiso: Stunning City and Lake Views

If you’re looking for a wonderful place to stay in Lugano, look no further than Suitenhotel Parco Paradiso. The staff here is incredibly helpful and friendly, making you feel right at home. You’ll wake up to a rich and delicious breakfast buffet that will give you plenty of energy for your day of exploring Lake Lugano. The spa area is modern and clean, with everything you need to relax and unwind after a long day.

The rooms are spacious and comfortable, offering stunning views of the city. One small suggestion would be to offer bottled or tap water in the spa area, as only having a shower to sip water from can be inconvenient. Nonetheless, this is a minor issue, and I still give this hotel 5 stars for my amazing stay. It’s a lovely place to be, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for Lake Lugano hotels.

Hotel Besso Lugano Center: Budget Hotel in Central Lugano

Hotel Besso Lugano offers fantastic value in the heart of Lugano. Guests rave about the great service, decent rooms, and convenient location next to the train station. Despite simple breakfast offerings and modest amenities, the overall experience exceeds expectations, making it a highly recommended choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking affordability without compromising on quality or convenience.

Hotel Nassa Garni: Budget Hotel in Lugano for Family

If you’re looking for one of the best hotels in Lugano for families, look no further than Hotel Nassa Garni! Located in the heart of Ticino, this hotel boasts stunning views of Lake Lugano and is conveniently situated in the center of Lugano. With a terrace, 24-hour reception desk, internet access, and parking available for an additional cost, this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

The nearby shopping center and lake also offer plenty of activities for families to enjoy. In fact, families particularly love the location of this hotel and have rated it 9.7 for a stay with kids. So why not book your stay at Hotel Nassa Garni and experience the best of Lugano with your loved ones?

Locanda Del Conventino: The Best Budget Hotel in Lugano for Solo Travelers

Locanda Del Conventino is definitely one of the best hotels in Lugano for solo travelers! During my two-night stay, I had a perfect single room that was equipped with everything I needed and it was spotlessly clean.

The staff was incredibly helpful and friendly, making my experience even better. Plus, the hotel is conveniently located less than 10 minutes away by car from the center of Lugano. Another great feature is the Etnic restaurant which is situated below the hotel, offering fantastic options for both dining and drinking.

Hotel Dischma: Budget Lugano Hotel for Couples

Looking for an affordable yet cozy hotel for your romantic getaway in Lugano? Look no further than Dischma Hotel! Located just 300 meters away from the funicular station and Lugano-Paradiso boat pier on Lake Lugano, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms equipped with cable TV, a minibar, a safe, and a private bathroom.

Start your day off right with the hotel’s delicious breakfast buffet. During the warmer months, you can unwind in the hotel’s charming garden. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi and an internet terminal for your convenience.

For adventurous couples, the nearby funiculars make it easy to explore the scenic lookouts on Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Lugano Central Train Station is only a 10-minute walk away, and the nearest bus stop is just a 2-minute walk from the hotel. With a rating of 8.2 for solo travellers, Dischma Hotel is considered one of the best budget hotels in Lugano for couples.

So there you go, your guide to the best Lugano hotels. I hope you enjoy your trip as much as I enjoyed mine.