Mendrisio

Mendrisio lies in southern Switzerland in the canton of Ticino, near the Italian border—between Lugano, Chiasso and Lake Lugano. The town is known for its historic centre, vineyards, nature and architecture.

Begin at Piazza del Ponte with the parish church SS. Cosma e Damiano, then wander the lanes to courtyards with terracotta roofs. Art and architecture are everywhere: the Museo del Trasparente, the Teatro dell’architettura by Mario Botta and the Accademia di architettura shape the city.

From the Capolago quarter, the rack railway climbs Monte Generoso. On the summit stands Mario Botta’s “Fiore di pietra” with terraces and a restaurant; the view reaches across Lake Lugano and Lake Como to the Alps.

Monte San Giorgio is a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for Triassic fossils. Marked trails lead over chestnut-covered slopes and ridge paths to the summit with wide lake views; information boards explain geology and nature, and several circuits can be done as half- or full-day hikes.

The Valle di Muggio features traditional villages and a rich cultural landscape. Parco delle Gole della Breggia offers an impressive gorge and geology stations. On Lake Lugano, lakeside paths between Melide and Morcote are recommended. Lugano is a short train ride away for museums, parks and city strolls.

With the Ticino Ticket you travel free on public transport in Ticino and enjoy various discounts. The ticket is available with an overnight stay in hotels, hostels or campsites in Ticino.