Porlezza, Lugano, Gandria, Oria & Menaggio, Italy
Discover the beauty of both Italy and Switzerland on this scenic day trip from Menaggio, taking you through the charming towns of Porlezza, Lugano, Gandria, and Oria before returning to Menaggio. From the peaceful shores of Lake Lugano to picturesque waterfront villages, this route combines breathtaking views, cultural highlights, and also relaxing lakeside strolls. Whether you’re exploring Lugano’s elegant city center, wandering the narrow lanes of Gandria, or soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Oria, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and authentic local charm in a single unforgettable day.
Morning Historical Walk in Menaggio
From the accommodation you can drive up on Via L. Cadorna, then at the intersection you can park in Parcheggio Largo Fossato, by the old city walls – Mura del Castello di Menaggio. Walk along the stone walls and get to Via Castellino da Castello and also Via Strecium.
Porlezza Italy – Breakfast & Lugano Lakeside Walk
Afterwards drive on SS340/Via Statale Regina for approx. 15 minutes, 12 km and arrive in Porlezza. Shop at Carrefour in Porlezza if you need something. Then get to the roundabout on Lake Lugano’s shore and turn right in order to park near the Tourist information Porlezza and Bar pizzeria Visconti. If you walk back to the roundabout you will get to B-Loved LoungeCafè and Porlezza ferry terminal on the lakeshore – Lungolago.
Porlezza Historic Center
Back to the parking lot turn right on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi. You will see a nice pastry shop on the left, Bar Pasticceria Italia. Walk forward and then find Alimentari Manzolini Di Achini Giancarlo supermarket on the left at the fork intersection with Via Prepositurale. Then continue ahead on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi and get to Piazza Cinque vie. Afterwards return to the fork intersection and go to the left on Via Prepositurale. There you will see Chiesa di S. Vittore. You can have breakfast at B-Loved LoungeCafè, Bar pizzeria Visconti or Bar Pasticceria Italia.
Lake Lugano Scenic Stops in Cima and Oria, Italy
Drive forward on Strada Statale 340. Reach Cima and stop for a few minutes. Park in the center of the village, on the lakeshore, Lungolago e Borgo di Cima.
Pass by the Oria village, you can stop on the way back from Lugano, and cross the border to Switzerland.
Crossing into Switzerland: From Italy to Lugano
At the cross border – Guardia di Finanza Presidio Doganale Confine Italo-Svizzero Albogasio-Oria, SS340 becomes Via Cantonale and then Str. di Gandria. Pass through Gandria locality; you can stop there on the way back.
Lake Lugano Cruises
A cruise on Lake Lugano is one of the best ways to enjoy the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside villages.
Book a Boat TourSentiero dell’Olivo & Villa Heleneum, Lugano, Switzerland
From Str. di Gandria turn left on Via Cortivo and you will get to the entrance to Parco di Villa Heleneum; keep forward and there is a parking lot at the end of the road. After the parking lot begins a lakeshore path – Sentiero dell’olivo/ Sentiero di Gandria. Walk a few steps for the views, the trail is 1.6 km long and goes to Gandria. The trail winds through terraced olive groves and offers sweeping views of Lake Lugano.
You can stop in Gandria later on the way back to Menaggio. Get back and visit Parco di Villa Heleneum – entrance is free.
Drive Into Lugano, Switzerland
Drive back to the main road and continue towards West on the now called Via Riviera. Pass on the Ponte del Diavolo and continue ahead on Via Castagnola. Pass by Porto Lanchetta Lugano and turn right on Viale dei Faggi. At the third intersection turn left on Via Maggio, pass on the bridge and continue forward, then turn left at the second intersection, on Via Pasquale Lucchini. Then turn left at the first intersection on Via Luigi Canonica and at the second intersection turn right on Via Landriani. Turn right and find a parking lot.
Hotels in Lugano
If you’re planning to spend more than a day in Lugano, staying near the lake or the historic centre makes it easy to explore the city on foot.
Parco Ciani & Lakeside Lugano, Switzerland
Visit Parco Ciani, go in front of Villa Ciani and see the famous Gate on Lake Lugano/Cancello sul Lago di Lugano. Go a little to the East on the lakeshore and see La sfera di Lugano. Exit the park in Riva Giocondo Albertolli, near the Casino Lugano. See Rivetta Tell city park across the street from the casino, on the lake shore. There is a Chess game. Next to the casino is a nice cafeteria – Caffè Pascucci Lugano, and an elegant McDonalds.
Piazza Manzoni & Lugano Waterfront, Switzerland
Walk forward West on the lakeshore and get to Piazza Manzoni. See the interesting fountain in the square, Fontana Mocetti and a kids carousel, Giostra Disney. See Lugano-Centrale ferry terminal followed by the I love Lugano sign. Turn right and see Fontana Antonio Bossi and get to Piazza Riforma.
Lugano Historic Center & Shopping Streets, Switzerland
Pass by the Municipio di Lugano / Palazzo Civico where the Centro Storico di Lugano begins. Go left on Via Nassa and then turn right on Via Pessina. See Cartier, Gucci, Rocca, Hermes, Moncler stores. Keep forward North on Via Pessina and then get to a fork intersection where you will find both GABBANI Gastronomia deli store and GABBANI Ristorante. In front of the restaurant there are Palazzo Riva historical building and a Swatch store. This is Piazza Cioccaro.
Lugano Tours & Experiences
Looking for more things to do in Lugano? Browse guided walking tours, food experiences, and excursions around beautiful Lake Lugano.
Lugano Funicolare & Cathedral, Switzerland
To the left corner of the square you will find Lugano Città funicolare. If you go on Via Cattedrale and then turn left on Via Borghetto in 5 minutes you get to the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence/Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. Moreover, there you will find a nice terrace in front of the church.
Via Nassa & Lakeside Area, Switzerland
Return to Piazza Ciocarro and from there turn left on Via Pessina and find Piazza della Manor shopping mall. Return on Via Pessina until the intersection with Via Nassa. Continue on Via Nassa if you want all the way to Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angioli and Louis Vuitton Lugano Store on the lakeshore.
Our Top Recommendation: RFID Travel Wallet
If we had to choose just one recommendation, this would be it: a RFID travel wallet is a practical recommendation for travellers carrying different currencies and travel documents.
Back to Piazza della Riforma. Go east on Via Canova and reach Chiesa di San Rocco. Continue forward on Via Canova, enter Piazza Indipendenza park, see Eros Bendato sculpture. Go North on Corso Elvezia and turn right on Viale Carlo Caetano and arrive at the parking lot.
Have lunch in Lugano at GABBANI Ristorante or in Gandria on the lakeshore.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Polarized Sunglasses
Perfect for bright days by the lake. Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable.
Optional Excursion – Morcote, Switzerland
From Parking Piazza Castello in central Lugano follow the scenic route south towards Morcote, passing the foot of Monte San Salvatore and enjoying beautiful views of Lake Lugano along the way. The drive winds through charming lakeside communities before reaching one of Switzerland’s most picturesque villages.
Arrive at Parco Sherrer in Morcote, a beautiful botanical garden overlooking the lake. The entry is free. Explore its terraces filled with Mediterranean and rare plants, admire sculptures inspired by classical and Asian cultures. Moreover, take in panoramic views across Lake Lugano. After visiting the gardens, enjoy a stroll along Morcote’s charming waterfront and historic streets before continuing your journey.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Clip-on Stroller Fan
A useful accessory for keeping little ones comfortable during warm summer walks. Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable.
Morcote is often regarded as the jewel of Lake Lugano. Wander along the arcaded waterfront lined with pastel-colored houses, then climb the historic staircase to Chiesa Santa Maria del Sasso, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the lake. Santa Maria del Sasso is a beautiful 13th-century church perched above the village. The climb is rewarded with spectacular views over Morcote and Lake Lugano.
If you want, you can continue to walk to Tenuta Castello di Morcote, a historic hillside wine estate surrounded by vineyards. Enjoy a walk through the estate, admire the breathtaking scenery, and, if time permits, stop for a wine tasting or a meal while taking in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing your journey.
You can also drive from Santa Maria del Sasso to Castello di Morcote (Tenuta Castello di Morcote), although it’s a very short journey:
- Park in Morcote.
- Visit Parco Scherrer. Walk up to Santa Maria del Sasso.
- Return to your car.
- Drive to Tenuta Castello di Morcote.
- Enjoy the vineyards, wine tasting, or lunch with panoramic views over Lake Lugano.
Optional Excursion – Melide
After your visit to Tenuta Castello di Morcote, continue by car to Swissminiatur in Melide, a drive of approximately 15 minutes along the shores of Lake Lugano. This open-air miniature park showcases more than 120 of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks, complete with detailed models, moving trains, cable cars, and boats. It’s a fun and also unique way to discover the country’s iconic attractions in one place, making it an enjoyable stop for visitors of all ages before continuing your journey back toward Menaggio. It is a family attraction founded in 1959. Entry price is 21 CHF. Check the website for updates.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Foldable Day Backpack
Ideal for carrying snacks, water, and baby essentials while exploring Lugano.Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable.
Gandria – Lakeside Village
Afterwards, from Swissminiatur in Melide drive north along the scenic lakeside road to Lugano, passing through the elegant district of Paradiso with beautiful views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains. Then continue through the city before following the shoreline to Gandria, a charming medieval village nestled on the eastern shore of the lake.
Stop in Gandria for a quick visit. Stroll through its narrow cobbled lanes, admire the traditional stone houses clustered along the waterfront, and also relax at one of the lakeside cafés while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
From the main road turn right to the parking lot. Walk down the road until you reach Chiesa di San Vigilio. Go right surrounding the church on La Pergura street. Then turn left and again left at Piazza Niscior. Continue forward until you reach Gandria ferry terminal and restaurants Ristorante Antico, and La Bottega di Gandria. You can eat in one of these lakeshore restaurants.
This itinerary is baby-friendly and can also easily be completed by car. Bring a stroller for Lugano, Morcote, and Gandria, although some historic areas have steep streets and cobblestones, so a baby carrier may be more practical. This route is ideal for families travelling by car, with plenty of opportunities to stop, stretch, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Return from Lugano to Italy – Oria
From Gandria, continue to the lakeside hamlet of Oria, a quiet and also lesser-known gem on the shores of Lake Lugano. Surrounded by steep forested hills and crystal-clear waters, Oria offers a tranquil setting to relax and enjoy the scenery before crossing back into Italy and returning to Menaggio, ending a memorable day exploring the Swiss side of Lake Lugano.
Cross the border back to Italy and stop at Oria. After the border, keep right on Via Caravello, towards Lungolago, Valsolda. There will be an intersection with a street to the left, Via per Castello and there will be a parking lot. Cross the street and then walk down the stairs to Borgo di Oria-Piccolo Mondo Antico and Villa Fogazzaro Roi – there will be a sign. Visit the villa, moreover entry is free. Then, in front of the villa you will see Oria ferry terminal and Chiesa di Oria/Chiesa di San Sebastiano.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Compact Travel Umbrella
Mountain weather can change quickly, so a lightweight umbrella is always worth packing.
Evening Return from Lugano to Menaggio, Italy
Return to Menaggio, where you can choose to end your day with a leisurely stroll through Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, the town’s charming lakeside square. Lined with cafés, restaurants, and gelaterias, it’s the perfect place to enjoy an aperitivo, a delicious Italian dinner, or simply relax by the waterfront while taking in the beautiful views of Lake Como.
Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter evening after a full day of sightseeing, continue directly to your accommodation to finally unwind and reflect on a memorable journey exploring the picturesque villages, gardens, and scenic landscapes of the Lake Lugano region.
Read On
Be sure to explore Destination Italy: Lake Como and Lugano by Car + Baby on Board – Day 6, for the next chapter of the Italian journey — from hidden corners to breathtaking views, there’s so much more to discover. You can find all our posts about Lake Como on this page. For more inspiration and practical travel tips, don’t miss our maps and travel guides, and visit our Italy Travel Hub and Italy Bucket List — your go-to resources for exploring Italy in depth. Are you looking to expand your itinerary? Don’t miss our posts on Venice!
Thanks for reading!
Where to Stay, Eat and Explore in Lake Como
Lake Como is a wonderful destination for a road trip from Milan Malpensa, especially when travelling with a baby. From the charming streets of Como and Cernobbio to the lakeside scenery of Menaggio, Argegno, and other beautiful villages, here are our favorite recommendations.
Find the Best Hotels in Lake Como
Lake Como offers beautiful lakeside views, charming villages, and easy access to some of northern Italy’s most scenic destinations. Compare hotels and find the perfect family-friendly stay in Como, Menaggio, Cernobbio, Argegno, or other picturesque towns around the lake.
Explore Lake Como by Car
Discover Lake Como at your own pace with a private full-day driving tour. Visit some of the lake’s most picturesque towns and sights, including Cernobbio, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Carlotta, while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of private transportation.
Discover Lake Como by Boat
Experience Lake Como from the water and enjoy a completely different perspective of its villages and mountains. Choose from scenic ferry rides, shared cruises, private boat tours, sunset experiences, and guided excursions to some of the lake’s most beautiful destinations.
Best Restaurants in Lake Como
Discover our favorite restaurants around Lake Como, from authentic Italian trattorias and family-friendly cafés to charming lakeside restaurants. Enjoy fresh pasta, local specialties, pizza, and beautiful views after a day of driving and exploring.
Lugano – Where to Stay, Eat and Explore
Lugano is one of the most beautiful destinations in southern Switzerland and makes an excellent addition to a northern Italy road trip. Surrounded by mountains and Lake Lugano, the city combines Swiss charm with a distinctly Italian atmosphere. From the elegant lakeside promenade and historic old town to Monte Brè, Monte San Salvatore, and nearby villages, there is plenty to see and do.
Find the Best Hotels in Lugano
Lugano has accommodation for every type of traveler, from stylish hotels in the city center to peaceful lakeside properties and family-friendly apartments. Staying near the lake or historic center makes it easy to explore the city on foot while also enjoying beautiful views.
Explore Lugano Old Town
Spend some time wandering through Lugano’s historic center, where narrow streets, elegant squares, cafés, churches, and small shops create a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Piazza della Riforma and the streets surrounding the old town are perfect for a leisurely walk.
Discover Lake Lugano by Boat
One of the best ways to experience Lugano is from the water. A boat trip on Lake Lugano offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, lakeside villages, elegant waterfront homes, and the city itself. Look for sightseeing cruises, day trips, and private boat experiences.
Visit Monte San Salvatore
Rising above Lugano, Monte San Salvatore is one of the city’s most famous viewpoints. Take the funicular to the summit and enjoy panoramic views over Lake Lugano and the surrounding Alps. It is a great option for travelers who want spectacular scenery without spending an entire day hiking.
Take the Funicular to Monte Brè
Monte Brè is another fantastic viewpoint above Lugano. The mountain offers spectacular views over the lake and surrounding landscape, as well as walking trails and access to the charming village of Brè. It is a wonderful choice for a relaxed half-day excursion.
Best Restaurants in Lugano
Lugano is a great place to enjoy a mix of Swiss and Italian cuisine. Look for traditional Ticinese restaurants, lakeside cafés, Italian-style trattorias, bakeries, and restaurants serving local specialties. The city center and lakeside promenade offer plenty of options for lunch, dinner, coffee, and an aperitivo.
Best Day Trips from Lugano
Lugano is also a great base for exploring the surrounding region. Depending on your itinerary, you can visit charming Ticinese villages, enjoy scenic mountain viewpoints, take a boat across Lake Lugano, or continue your road trip toward Lake Como and northern Italy.
Explore Lugano by Car
If Lugano is part of a northern Italy and Switzerland road trip, having a car gives you more flexibility to explore the surrounding lakes, mountain villages, viewpoints, and scenic roads. Compare rental cars and choose an option that works for your itinerary.
Lugano Travel Essentials
Planning a trip to Lugano? These practical travel essentials can make your journey easier, especially if you are combining Switzerland with a northern Italy road trip or travelling with children.
Travel Adapter
A compact travel adapter is useful when travelling between countries with different electrical sockets. Keep one in your day bag so your phone, camera, and other devices are always ready for another day of exploring.
Lightweight Travel Backpack
A comfortable day backpack is perfect for carrying water, snacks, cameras, jackets, and other essentials while walking around Lugano or heading into the mountains.
Portable Power Bank
A portable power bank is useful for long sightseeing days when you are using your phone for maps, photos, tickets, and travel information.
Travel Organizer
Keep passports, cards, tickets, charging cables, and other small travel documents organized with a compact travel organizer.
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More Lugano Travel Guides
Planning a trip to Lugano? Explore our guides covering the best things to do, where to stay, restaurants, scenic viewpoints, Lake Lugano boat trips, road trip ideas, and practical tips for visiting Switzerland.
More Budget Travel Finds
Looking for affordable travel accessories? Discover our favorite luggage organizers, travel gadgets, waterproof bags, packing cubes, phone holders, and other useful items that make every trip easier without stretching your budget.
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Table of contents
- Porlezza, Lugano, Gandria, Oria & Menaggio, Italy
- Morning Historical Walk in Menaggio
- Porlezza Italy – Breakfast & Lugano Lakeside Walk
- Porlezza Historic Center
- Lake Lugano Scenic Stops in Cima and Oria, Italy
- Crossing into Switzerland: From Italy to Lugano
- Sentiero dell’Olivo & Villa Heleneum , Lugano, Switzerland
- Drive Into Lugano, Switzerland
- Parco Ciani & Lakeside Lugano , Switzerland
- Piazza Manzoni & Lugano Waterfront, Switzerland
- Lugano Historic Center & Shopping Streets, Switzerland
- Lugano Funicolare & Cathedral, Switzerland
- Via Nassa & Lakeside Area , Switzerland
- Optional Excursion – Morcote, Switzerland
- Optional Excursion – Melide
- Gandria – Lakeside Village
- Return from Lugano to Italy – Oria
- Evening Return from Lugano to Menaggio, Italy
- Read On
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