Join us on our scenic day trip from Menaggio, Lake Como to Lugano, Switzerland across the border. After visiting Lugano old town and Parco Ciani, we reurned to Italy and visited Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo.
It was Sunday and raining. Our initial plan for day 3 was to visit Campo, Lenno, Bonzanigo, Tremezzo & Varenna. We even had paid rezervations, again (we also booked in June 2022 and we couldn’t get there in time) to visit Villa Balbianello.
Change of Plans
We had the Villa Balbianello garden visit booked at 10.30 am, so we would have to get the car parked by 10 am in the parking lot at the entrace to the villa and then walk uphill for 20 minutes through the forest to get to thr actual villa. But, as we woke up late, took us a while to feed the baby and mostly because we saw it was raining and didn’t look as it would stop soon, we sadly decided to skip this visit again.
Having lost the baby carriage at the airport and changing our plans for day 2 messed up our well organized plans and itineraries. We decided to visit Lugano, hoping there wasn’t raining and was warmer.
From the accommodation we drove up on Via L. Cadorna. At the intersection we noticed the parking lot, Parcheggio Largo Fossato, by the old city walls. But we didn’t stop, thinking maybe we would stop on our way back when the rain would stop. And then we could hike Via Castellino da Castello and Via Strecium.
Day Trip from Menaggio, Lake Como to Lugano
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We drove on SS340/Via Statale Regina for approx. 15 minutes, 12 km and arrived in Porlezza. This time we didn’t stop, because we just visited Porlezza the day before and there was nothing left to do there anymore. So we drove to the roundabout on Lake Lugano’s shore and kept ahead and entered the tunnel.
We drove forward on Strada Statale 340. We reached Cima, but we didn’t stop. From the car we had a glimpse of this small village located just on the lakeshore, Lungolago e Borgo di Cima.
We didn’t pass through Oria village and we kept ahead on SS340. We thought we could in Oria on our way back from Lugano. So we kept ahead on the road and crossed the border to Switzerland.
From Lake Como to Lugano, Crossing into Switzerland
We got to the cross border – Guardia di Finanza Presidio Doganale Confine Italo-Svizzero Albogasio-Oria. From there SS340 became Via Cantonale and then Str. di Gandria. We passed through Gandria locality and again we thought we could stop there on the way back.
Then we stopped at a shop after the border, called mio by migrolino. We bought some coffee and Swiss chocolates as souvenirs to bring back home. They were quite expensive though.
After the shop we saw a road on the left and the sign ‘Gandria’. But, as it was still raining we skipped the visits to Sentiero dell’olivo/ Sentiero di Gandria and Parco di Villa Heleneum.
Drive into Lugano City Center
We drove ahead on the main road, now called Via Riviera. We passed on the Ponte del Diavolo and continued ahead on Via Castagnola. Passed by Porto Lanchetta Lugano and kept ahead on Viale Carlo Cattaneo and we found a parking lot on the right, Parking – Autosilo Piazza Castello. It was a very modern underground parking and also had a very modern public restroom.
Out of the parking lot we crossed the street to the right where we saw a nice place where we thought to stop for breakfast, Il Cannolo Sua Eccellenza – BistrotBistrot.
Breakfast in Lugano
Therefore, we began our Lugano visit sitting outside at a nice Sicilian café near the parking lot, wrapped in jackets while enjoying the fresh air and watching the nearly empty streets. For me breakfast is usually coffee and something sweet, so I had espresso and pistachio cornetto. (croissant). First we fed the baby and then we all indulged into different kinds of cannoli. The rest of the group also ordered coffee, except my husband who never drinks coffee. He ordered a Coca Cola instead.
We started our Lugano visit on that cool and rainy Sunday morning at the end of June. The temperature was only around 14°C, and low grey clouds covered the mountains surrounding the lake, giving the Lugano a calm and dreamy atmosphere.
Travel Essentials We Recommend
These are some of our favorite travel products that make every trip more comfortable, organized and stress-free.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Perfect for exploring cobbled streets, lakeside paths, and charming villages.
Travel Backpack
A practical choice for carrying your essentials while sightseeing and exploring all day.
Collapsible Water Bottle
Easy to carry and perfect for staying hydrated while you’re out exploring.
Compact Travel Umbrella
A useful extra to have when the weather changes unexpectedly.
Parco Ciani & Lakeside Lugano
After breakfast we crossed the street to visit Parco Ciani. We walked past Palazzo dei Congressi Lugano and reached the green parks along the lake. The trees looked vibrant after the rain, and the pathways through Parco Ciani were peaceful and almost empty.
In the back of the Palazzo dei Congressi we found Villa Ciani.
From there we went to the left and walked past La Desolazione statue. Then we got to Park Ciani Fountain and took the alley along the lakeshore.
Red benches lined the wet walkways, colorful flowers brightened the grey morning.
We noticed Statua del Socrate Morente and Park ‘n’ Read ice cream shop on the right.
I was cold because I didn’t pack clothes for 14 degrees Celsius. And I had no pantyhose either and most of the shops were closed on Sunday, so I couldn’t buy some.
Sfera di Lugano
We walked ahead on the lakeshore and found Sfera di Lugano.
The wet pathways shined beneath the trees, flowerbeds looked more vibrant after the rain, and the benches facing the lake invite quiet moments despite the drizzle.
After reaching Sfera di Lugano we decided to return to Villa Ciani and visit the Western part of the park.
As we returned along the promenade, we could see the lake stretching quietly beneath the dark clouds. The mountains disappeared in and out of the mist, creating beautiful views everywhere we looked. Even with the rain, the atmosphere felt relaxing rather than gloomy.
A walk through Parco Ciani becomes especially peaceful in this weather. The rain gave everything a softer and quieter feeling, making Lugano seem even more elegant and peaceful than on a sunny day.
Lake Como Travel Essentials With a Baby
Practical travel essentials that can make exploring Lake Como with a baby easier and more comfortable.
Lightweight Travel Stroller
Easy to fold and practical for exploring Lake Como’s towns and lakeside promenades.
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Baby Changing Backpack
Keep diapers, baby food, clothes and everyday essentials organized while sightseeing.
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Stroller Rain Cover
A useful extra when Lake Como weather changes unexpectedly during your day out.
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Travel Toiletry Bag
Keep baby toiletries, creams and other small essentials together and easy to find.
Shop Toiletry Bags →Reusable Water Bottle
A simple essential for long walks, sightseeing and family days around Lake Como.
Shop Water Bottles →Villa Ciani and the Gate on Lake Lugano
Then we walked back in front of Villa Ciani and posed for pictures on the lakeshore.
We admired the famous Gate on Lake Lugano/Cancello sul Lago di Lugano.
Although it was the end of June, the cool weather made us appreciate simple moments — slow walks beside the lake, and quiet views of the gardens and mountains.
Instead of spending the day rushing between attractions, we enjoyed the slower rhythm of Lugano in the rain and taking in the peaceful lakeside scenery.
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Afterwards we exited the park in Riva Giocondo Albertolli, near the Casino Lugano.
We got to Rivetta Tell city park across the street from the casino, on the lake shore.
A rainy June day in Lugano has a quiet charm that feels completely different from the postcard-perfect sunny version.
As we continued our walk, we came across a giant outdoor chess game set where locals and visitors gathered despite the damp conditions. The lakeside parks were unusually peaceful, with only a handful of people enjoying the fresh air beneath the trees.
Piazza Manzoni & Lugano Waterfront
Despite the weather, we enjoyed strolling along Lugano’s elegant lakeside promenade. The tree-lined waterfront offered welcome shelter from the drizzle, while ferries and small boats moved across the grey waters of Lake Lugano.
The views across the lake were dramatic. Dark clouds hovered above the surrounding peaks. Although summer had officially arrived, the cool temperatures made it feel more like early spring.
We paused several times along the promenade to admire the scenery and watch the boats crossing the lake.
Then we crossed the street to Casinò Lugano SA.
Next to the casino was a nice cafeteria РCaff̬ Pascucci Lugano, and an elegant McDonalds.
Lunch and Lugano Historic Center Visit
We started searching for a place to eat. We were surprised to find out that many places were closed on Sunday, even in the center of the city. So we entered Burger King. We weren’t very happy with the food, nor the high prices for a fast food. But we were happy we could rest for a while and warm up inside.
After lunch we started exploring the city center, still through the rain. From the Burger King in Piazza Manzoni we went to Piazza Riforma. We passed by the Municipio di Lugano / Palazzo Civico where the Centro Storico di Lugano begins.
Then we turned left to Via Nassa and then right on Via Pessina. We came across some luxury stores like Cartier, Gucci, Rocca, Hermes, Moncler. Then we arrived in Piazza Ciocarro.
Lugano Old Town – Piazza Ciocarro
Despite the rain we enjoyed wandering through the old town, admiring the beautiful pastel-colored buildings with their shuttered windows and decorative balconies. The wet cobblestones shimmered beneath our feet, and the quiet atmosphere made the city feel peaceful despite the gloomy skies.
One of our favorite stops was at GABBANI Gastronomia, a traditional delicatessen store.
There rows of hanging salami and cured meats decorated the storefront. The bright yellow façade stood out against the gray weather, creating a perfect contrast and a memorable scene. In front of the store there was also GABBANI Ristorante. And in front of the restaurant we noticed the Palazzo Riva historical building and a Swatch store.
We paused there for photos and enjoyed watching locals go about their Sunday routines.
The rain came and went throughout the day, so we often took shelter under awnings and umbrellas while exploring the narrow streets.
Then we headed back to Via Nassa, passing by Grand Café Al Porto restaurant which unfortunately was closed on Sunday, like many other businesses.
Lugano Old Town – Via Nassa Shopping Street
We strolled on Via Nassa, a famous Lugano shopping street. Along the way, we discovered otherelegant cafés and historic buildings, each with its own character. The city’s blend of Swiss order and Italian charm was evident everywhere we looked.
At one point, we stepped inside a quiet church to escape a passing shower. Chiesa di S. Carlo Borromeo had a nice interior with black-and-white tiled floor and a peaceful atmosphere.
Just opposite the church we noticed a building with an interesting facade.
We went a little further on Via Nassa. The rain became heavier and we really needed a second umbrella, as we were a group of 4 adults and 1 baby and only 1 umbrella.
Finally we were happy to find an open store, a souvenir store. We bought an umbrella and also some souvenirs, mostly magnets.
Lugano Old Town Piazza Riforma
We went back to Piazza Riforma and we passed by Municipio di Lugano (city hall).
The historic square glistened with reflections from the wet cobblestones. Elegant buildings surrounded the piazza with pastel facades standing out against the dark clouds overhead.
Then we passed by Piazza Manzoni and kept ahead East on Via Canova.
Locals and visitors alike moved through the square under umbrellas, while cafés offered welcome shelter from the rain.
The rain created a peaceful mood, and the streets felt quieter than they might on a sunny summer weekend. Looking toward the surrounding mountains, we could see mist hanging over the slopes.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Lightweight Rain Jacket
Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable. Lake Como and Lugano weather can change quickly. A lightweight rain jacket are easy to keep in your day bag.
We wandered through Lugano’s elegant arcades, enjoying the shelter from the rain while admiring the beautiful architecture and relaxed atmosphere of the city center.
So, first we strolled along Via Canova, a picturesque colonnaded walkway lined with lush plants, soaking in the peaceful mood of Lugano on a rainy afternoon.
We came across one of Lugano’s charming covered passages, Palazzi della Galleria, where historic architecture, mosaic floors, and stylish storefronts created a perfect blend of old and new.
A we wandered through Lugano’s old town, we encountered graceful arches, colorful buildings, and inviting squares that made every turn worth exploring.
We followed the streets of Lugano toward the historic church, Chiesa di San Rocco. There the city’s beautiful architecture was framed by the green hills rising in the background.
Ending Our Lake Como – Lugano Day Trip in Piazza Indipendenza
From Chiesa di San Rocco we continued ahead on Via Canova and passed the Casinò Lugano SA building and entered Piazza Indipendenza park.
We saw Eros Bendato sculpture just across the street from Palazzo dei Congressi Lugano. We stopped for a few minutes and took some pictures.
Afterwards, from Piazza Indipendenza we went North on Corso Elvezia, turned right on Viale Carlo Caetano and we finally arrived at the parking lot.
For the end of June, we were expecting warm summer weather and sunny lakeside views. Instead, we were greeted by grey skies and a steady rain that followed us throughout our Lugano visit. While it wasn’t the weather we had hoped for, the rain gave the city a different kind of charm.
The Drive Back to Lake Como from Lugano
We got back into the car and headed toward Lake Como with our one-year-old daughter. The plan was simple: drive to Menaggio and see how the afternoon unfolded. As we left the city behind and followed the scenic roads through the hills, our daughter gradually drifted off to sleep in her car seat. With the car quiet and the drive going smoothly, we decided there was no reason to stop just yet.
Since the baby was sleeping peacefully, we continued past Menaggio and carried on to Tremezzo. It felt like the perfect opportunity to enjoy a little more of the lake while she rested. The drive along the lakeshore offered us beautiful views of Lake Como, the mountains, and the charming villages scattered along the coast.
Tremezzo Visit After the Lake Como – Lugano Day Trip
Once we got to Tremezzo we parked for free next to Grand Hotel Cadenabbia. Our daughter eventually woke up.
I have always liked Tremezzo. There is something special about its atmosphere—a relaxed elegance that sets it apart. The grand hotels and also the historic villas give the town a timeless character, while the wide lakeside promenade invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the scenery. Walking along the shore, with the lake stretching out before us and the mountains rising in the distance, always feels peaceful and unhurried. When.
We strolled a little along the promenade, seeing some boats crossing the lake, and the late afternoon light reflecting off the water.
Experience Lake Como From the Water
One of the best ways to see Lake Como is from the lake itself. Explore boat cruises, private tours and scenic experiences around Bellagio, Tremezzo and the surrounding villages.
Book a Boat TourAs the rain stopped, we considered visiting Villa Carlotta, again. Along the lakshore we even witessed a wedding. A group of people, all dressed in white were getting on board of a ferry at the Villa Carlotta ferry terminal.
We stopped for a few minutes in order to admire the views and also to take some pictures.
Stay in Tremezzo
Want to experience Lake Como at a slower pace? Extend your stay in Tremezzo and wake up close to the lake, ferry connections and Villa Carlotta.
Villa Carlotta Visit
Villa Carlotta, with its Botanical Garden and Oratorio Sommariva is a must visit. It is open daily between 10 am and 7 pm, last admission at 6 pm. We paid 12 euros per person.
The villa is stunning, you should normally spend around two hours to visit it. But as we arrived late, around closing time, we didn’t spent too much time there, but it was enough.
So we took the glass elevator next to Oratorio Sommariva to enter the villa from the top floor. First we posed for some family photos in the little garden next to the entrance.
Inside Villa Carlotta
Then we got nside the villa we also took some pictures at the top floor.
And we also captured the views from the balcony.
Our one-year-old daughter was happily riding in her stroller, making it easy to explore both the villa and its beautiful grounds at a relaxed pace. We were impressed by the elegant halls, grand staircases, and beautifully preserved rooms that offered a glimpse into the lives of the aristocratic families who once lived here.
We wandered through the villa’s museum rooms, admiring the ornate ceilings, antique furniture, and also the impressive works of art. Some rooms felt particularly intimate, such as the bedrooms and private living quarters, while others showcased the wealth and grandeur of a bygone era.
As we moved from room to room, our daughter curiously looked around from her stroller, taking in the colours, light, and activity around her.
One of our favourite moments was stepping out onto the terraces overlooking Lake Como. The views were simply breathtaking. From above, we could see the perfectly manicured gardens descending toward the water, with the mountains rising dramatically on the opposite shore.
Villa Carlotta Botanical Garden
Then, after exploring the villa, we spent time strolling through the famous botanical gardens.
The pathways led us through lush greenery, rare plants, towering trees, and also peaceful corners.
The gardens provided a wonderful contrast to the refined interiors of the villa and moreover, offered plenty of space to enjoy a leisurely walk as a family.
Overall, our visit to Villa Carlotta turned out to be much more than a museum stop. It was a chance to combine history, art, architecture, and also nature in one of the most beautiful settings on Lake Como. Walking through the elegant rooms and tranquil gardens together, with our daughter by our side, made the experience all the more memorable.
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Dinner in Tremezzo After the Day Lugano – Lake Como
As the evening approached, we headed to Cadenabbia for dinner. So we got back to the parking lot where we left the car and then we walked past Grand Hotel Cadenabbia and we entered Rodrigo Ristorante Pizzeria.
Located right on the lakeside road, the restaurant is known for its Italian cuisine and also for its welcoming atmosphere. We enjoyed delicious plates of pasta. Meanwhile, our one-year-old daughter happily ate her baby food from a jar that we had brought with us, making dinner easy and stress-free for everyone.
In conclusion, a nice day trip to Lugano despite the rain and an afternoon in one of our favorite towns on the lake combined created a memorable family experience.
Read On
Stay tuned for Our Lake Como and Lugano Visit by Car + Baby on Board – Day 4 as we continue exploring the stunning towns and lakeside scenery of Lake Como and Lugano. You can find all our posts about Lake Como on this page. And for more inspiration and practical tips on visiting Italy, grab our maps and travel guides and also head over to our Italy Travel Hub and Italy Bucket List — your starting point for all things Italian! And if you’re looking to expand your itinerary, don’t miss our posts on Rome and Vatican experiences, and also our day trips to Nemi, Tivoli and Riviera di Ulisse.
Thanks for reading!
Plan Your Lake Como & Lugano Family Road Trip
Planning a Lake Como road trip with a baby? After spending six days exploring Menaggio, Como, Porlezza, Lugano, Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo and Argegno by car, we discovered that the right accommodation, car, baby gear and travel planning can make a big difference. Here are some of the travel resources and practical essentials we recommend for planning your own family adventure.
Find Accommodation Around Lake Como
We chose Menaggio as our base because it gave us easy access to the ferry terminal, lakeside promenade, restaurants, shops and many of the places we wanted to visit. Staying in one location also made travelling with a baby much easier.
Whether you prefer an apartment with a kitchen, a family-friendly hotel or a lakeside stay, compare accommodation around Lake Como before your trip.
Rent a Car for Your Lake Como Road Trip
Renting a car at Milan Malpensa gave us the freedom to travel at our own pace, stop whenever our baby needed a break and explore places that are harder to reach by public transport.
Our route included Menaggio, Como, Porlezza, Lugano, Tremezzo, Bellagio, Varenna and Argegno. A rental car was especially useful for our airport transfers and for exploring the western shore of Lake Como.
Explore Lake Como by Ferry or Boat
Some of our favorite moments were on the water. We took ferries from Menaggio to Bellagio and Varenna and enjoyed beautiful views of the lake, mountains and lakeside villages along the way.
For a special experience, you can also choose from private boat trips, scenic cruises and guided Lake Como excursions.
Book Lake Como Experiences
Lake Como is much more than beautiful views. During our trip we explored Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo and Como, visited Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi, walked the lakeside promenades and also took a day trip to Lugano, Switzerland.
If you want to add organized experiences to your itinerary, browse Lake Como tours, sightseeing trips and private excursions.
Lake Como Road Trip Travel Essentials
Travelling around Lake Como with a baby taught us to keep the essentials close at hand. From organizing luggage and stroller supplies to making long car journeys more comfortable, these practical travel products can be useful for a family road trip around Italy.
Digital Luggage Scale
A digital luggage scale is a handy travel essential for checking your suitcase weight before heading home. It is especially useful after shopping in Italy and helps you avoid unexpected excess baggage fees at the airport.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are perfect for keeping clothes, baby outfits and travel essentials organized during a road trip. They make it easier to find what you need without unpacking your entire suitcase at every stop.
Portable Stroller Organizer
A stroller organizer keeps baby essentials such as bottles, wipes, snacks and small toys within easy reach while exploring Lake Como’s villages, cafés, promenades and scenic spots.
Portable Baby Changing Mat
A portable baby changing mat is a practical essential when travelling by car with a baby. Keep it handy for quick changes during scenic stops, shopping breaks or whenever you need a clean and comfortable place for your little one.
Car Window Sun Shade
Sunny drives around Lake Como can be beautiful, but direct sunlight through the rear windows can be uncomfortable for a baby. A car window sun shade can help reduce glare and direct sunlight during daytime drives.
Car Phone Mount
A secure phone mount is useful when using your phone for navigation. Keep your route visible while driving between Lake Como’s villages, ferry terminals, parking areas and scenic stops.
Portable Power Bank
A portable power bank is one of those small travel essentials that can save the day when you’re using your phone for navigation, taking photos or checking ferry schedules. Keep one in your day bag so you can recharge your phone while exploring Lake Como, Bellagio, Varenna or Lugano.
Kids Travel Tray
For older babies and toddlers who are developmentally ready, a travel tray can provide a convenient surface for snacks, books, drawing and small activities during longer car journeys. Choose one that is appropriate for your child’s age and car-seat setup.
Family road-trip tip: Always follow your child’s car-seat manufacturer’s instructions and make sure accessories do not interfere with the correct installation or operation of the car seat. Choose travel accessories appropriate for your child’s age and use them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Travelling Around Lake Como with a Baby
Our trip was not always perfect. We lost our stroller at the airport, changed plans because of rain, dealt with narrow roads, ferry crossings and traffic, and sometimes had to slow down because of our little one.
But that was also part of the adventure. With a car seat, stroller, changing supplies, snacks and flexible plans, Lake Como can be a wonderful destination for a family road trip.
Where to Eat Around Lake Como
From casual pizzerias in Menaggio to cafés in Como, Bellagio and Lugano and family-friendly restaurants in Varenna, food was an important part of our Lake Como adventure.
If you are planning where to eat during your own trip, explore restaurants and dining experiences around Lake Como.
Planning Your Own Lake Como Adventure?
Start with our complete Lake Como and Lugano family road trip series. Follow our six-day journey from Milan Malpensa to Menaggio, Como, Porlezza, Lugano, Bellagio, Varenna and Argegno, including our real experiences travelling around Lake Como with a baby.
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Life is a Journey Travel!
Table of contents
- Change of Plans
- Day Trip from Menaggio, Lake Como to Lugano
- From Lake Como to Lugano, Crossing into Switzerland
- Drive into Lugano City Center
- Breakfast in Lugano
- Parco Ciani & Lakeside Lugano
- Piazza Manzoni & Lugano Waterfront
- Lunch and Lugano Historic Center Visit
- Lugano Old Town – Piazza Ciocarro
- Lugano Old Town – Via Nassa Shopping Street
- Lugano Old Town Piazza Riforma
- Ending Our Lake Como – Lugano Day Trip in Piazza Indipendenza
- The Drive Back to Lake Como from Lugano
- Tremezzo Visit After the Lake Como – Lugano Day Trip
- Read On
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