One of the those things I deeply regret is not going to Lugano when I was in northern Italy. Why I didn't, you might ask? I want to attribute it to lack of common sense and idiocy. Ever since that trip I've been wanting to go and experience it up close and personal.
Know as the "Monte Carlo" of Switzerland, Lugano is the largest Italian speaking city outside of Italy. It is located not he shores of Lake Lugano with an impressive view of the Lugano Prealps. It is favored as a tourism spot for its warm summers and milder winters, with few days of snow.
The crescent shape of the city as it meets the lake and its proximity to the mountains allows for the enjoyment of outdoor activities like hiking and mountain bike trails, some of the most famous in Switzerland. Other attractions include Swiss heritage sites like art museums, churches and a number of public buildings.
The city center is also a shopping and international finacial center, that takes advantage of its great location in Switzerland, near the business centers of northern Italy, and proximity to France. There are plenty of guided tours that allow tourists to experience the city's attractions first hand.
I don't know you, but I find it a truly romantic destination. I can think of walks alond the lake's boardwalk, boat trips to little towns on the lake shore, and international cuisine with a strong Italian influence.
Have a lovely day!
