Explore the city

Situated in the sun-drenched canton of Ticino, Lugano offers an inspiring environment for the Summer School. As Switzerland’s third most important financial center and a hub of culture, the city seamlessly blends world-class infrastructure with the relaxed atmosphere of the Mediterranean.

The social life of the city centers around Piazza della Riforma, a grand square lined with neoclassical buildings and lively bistros. It is the perfect spot for networking over an espresso or reflecting between sessions. From here, you can wander through the historic center’s narrow streets and the Via Nassa, famous for its elegant 17th-century arcades.

Just steps from the city center lies Parco Ciani, often called the "green lung" of Lugano. With its lush subtropical plants and quiet pathways along the shore, it provides a peaceful setting for reading or academic discussion. For a broader perspective, take a boat trip across Lake Lugano to discover picturesque lakeside villages like Gandria and Morcote.

To truly appreciate the region's geography, take a short funicular ride to the summits of Lugano’s local mountains.

• Monte San Salvatore offers a 360-degree view of the lake and the Swiss-Italian Alps.
• Monte Brè is known as one of Switzerland’s sunniest spots and features a charming artists’ village accessible by a scenic walk from the summit.

A little further from town but easily accessible from Lugano are the

• Monte Generoso  known for its numerous hiking trails and best views reaching lake Como, Milan and, on a clear day Materhon and Jungrau!
• Monte Tamaro famous for its Santa Maria degli Angeli church designed by Mario Botta and the scenic ridge walk to/from Monte Lema.
• Monte Lema a natural oasis easily reachable by a cable car or via the ridge walk from Monte Tamaro.

For those interested in the intersection of society and art, the LAC (Lugano Arte e Cultura) is the city’s contemporary cultural center, hosting world-class exhibitions and performances. Additionally, the nearby Hermann Hesse Museum in Montagnola offers a glimpse into the life of the Nobel Prize-winning author who found his creative home in this landscape.

No visit to Lugano is complete without experiencing a traditional Grotto. These rustic local eateries, often tucked away in shaded areas or hillside nooks, serve regional specialties and offer a unique look at Ticinese social traditions and culinary heritage.

As a guest in the region, if you are staying in a hotel, hostel, or campsite, you will receive the Ticino Ticket. This provides free travel on all public transport (buses and trains) throughout the canton, as well as significant discounts on mountain cable cars and boat trips, making it easy to explore the region during your stay.