Visit Andermatt for a Classic Alpine Experience

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Switzerland Tourism.

For the most up-to-date details, check Ticino Tourism before you go.

Andermatt offers world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities throughout the entire winter season. You should visit the Gemsstock mountain to find high-altitude views and challenging ski runs. Lift passes usually cost around 80 CHF for a full day of mountain fun. For more ideas, check out winter activities in Lugano before you depart.

Take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn for a scenic local ride through the beautiful Urseren Valley. This train offers stunning views of frozen waterfalls and deep snow banks along the tracks. It is a true winter wonderland experience that you will remember for many years. The village itself is very charming and features many traditional Swiss restaurants.

Day Trips from Lugano to Swiss Alps: St. Moritz

St. Moritz is the most famous luxury destination in the Alps and is very accessible. You can reach it from Lugano using the scenic Bernina Express Bus during the winter months. This route operates daily and offers a comfortable ride through several picturesque alpine valleys.

Once you arrive, explore the famous frozen Lake St. Moritz for a unique winter experience. You can watch horse racing on the thick ice during the month of February. The town features high-end shopping and many elite dining options for a fancy afternoon. If you enjoy the cold, learn how to access Lugano winter sports resorts for more variety.

Take the local funicular up to Corviglia for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. A round-trip ticket costs approximately 45 CHF per person for the mountain cable car. You can enjoy a hot chocolate at the summit restaurant while watching the skiers. The crisp mountain air is very refreshing and perfect for taking beautiful travel photos.

Explore Mount Titlis and the Engelberg Valley

Mount Titlis is a top choice for a snowy adventure starting from central Lugano. The journey north toward the town of Engelberg takes about two and a half hours. This area is famous for its massive glacier and year-round snow activities for visitors. You can find more travel details on the official Switzerland Tourism website.

Ride the Titlis Rotair, which is the world's first revolving cable car, to the summit. It provides 360-degree views of the surrounding Swiss peaks during the five-minute ascent. Tickets for the cable car cost about 96 CHF for a full return trip. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking on a clear winter day.

After your mountain trip, look for indoor things to do in Lugano winter evenings to stay warm. You might want to visit a local museum or enjoy a spa treatment. The city offers many cozy spots to relax after a long day in the snow. These activities provide a great balance to your alpine adventures.

Ski and Hike in the Nearby Airolo Region

Airolo is the closest high-alpine ski resort to Lugano city for a quick day trip. The train ride takes only one hour from the main station to the mountain base. It sits at the foot of the Gotthard Pass in a very dramatic location. This makes it a very convenient and popular choice for local residents.

The Pesciüm ski area offers 30 kilometers of diverse slopes for all skill levels. You can rent high-quality ski gear directly at the valley station for a fair price. A daily lift pass costs around 50 CHF for adults during the 2026 season. You can find the best winter hiking trails near Lugano city for more outdoor options.

Visit the Caseificio del Gottardo for a local cheese tasting before you head back home. You can watch how traditional Swiss cheese is made in their modern production facility. The onsite restaurant serves delicious fondue and raclette dishes in a very cozy setting. It is the perfect way to end your alpine day trip from Lugano.