Map of Ascona, Switzerland

🌞 What to do in Ascona

Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Ascona with a range of activities that cater to all interests and budgets. From leisurely strolls along the lakeside promenade to high-end spa experiences, Ascona offers something for everyone.

• Best Budget Activity in Ascona:

  Parco delle Camelie: Explore the stunning Camellia Park, home to a variety of colorful camellia flowers and peaceful walking paths.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Ascona:

  Boat Tour on Lake Maggiore: Embark on a scenic boat tour on Lake Maggiore, taking in picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside villages.

• Best Luxury Activity in Ascona:

  Spa Day at Hotel Eden Roc: Indulge in a luxurious spa day at Hotel Eden Roc, where you can relax and rejuvenate with premium wellness treatments and facilities.

🍽️ Where to eat in Ascona

In Ascona, indulge in a culinary journey filled with fresh Mediterranean flavors and Swiss delights. Must-try foods include risotto, fresh seafood, and delectable Swiss chocolates.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Ascona:

  La Taverna•$-$$:

  Traditional Swiss dishes with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Ascona:

  Ristorante Seven•$$-$$$:

  Authentic Italian cuisine with a lakeside view

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Ascona:

  Ristorante La Veranda•$$$-$$$$:

  Fine dining with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients

• Best Budget Bar in Ascona:

  Bar Panoramico•$:

  Aperol Spritz with a view

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Ascona:

  Bar Collegio•$$-$$$:

  Classic cocktails with a cozy ambiance

• Best Luxury Bar in Ascona:

  Bar Giardino•$$$-$$$$:

  Champagne and caviar in an elegant setting

🏰 What to see in Ascona

Ascona is a treasure trove of historic and natural beauty, with must-visit landmarks that showcase the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the region. From charming old town squares to panoramic viewpoints, Ascona offers a feast for the eyes.

• Monte Verità

  Explore the bohemian past of Monte Verità, known as the Mountain of Truth, which was once a hub for artists, philosophers, and free spirits.

• Old Town of Ascona

  Wander through the picturesque streets of the Old Town of Ascona, lined with quaint shops, historic buildings, and charming cafes.

• Collegio Pontificio Papio

  Admire the beautiful architecture of Collegio Pontificio Papio, a historic building dating back to the 16th century, overlooking Lake Maggiore.

• Ascona Lakeside Promenade

  Stroll along the scenic Lakeside Promenade of Ascona, dotted with elegant villas, palm trees, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

• Madonna del Sasso

  Visit the sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso, perched high above Locarno, and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the town, lake, and mountains from this spiritual site.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Ascona

Indulge in a delightful shopping experience in Ascona, where charming boutiques, local artisans, and designer stores beckon shoppers with unique finds and high-end fashion choices. From quaint streets lined with artisanal shops to upscale boutiques offering luxury brands, Ascona has something for every taste and budget.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Ascona:

  Mercato Conca d'Oro: Explore the Mercato Conca d'Oro, a bustling market offering a variety of goods, from fresh produce to clothing and accessories at budget-friendly prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Ascona:

  Piazza Grande: Visit Piazza Grande, the main square in Ascona, where you can find a mix of shops, cafes, and boutiques offering stylish clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Ascona:

  Via Borgo: Stroll along Via Borgo, a charming street lined with upscale boutiques and designer stores featuring luxury fashion brands, fine jewelry, and elegant home decor.

🚍 Getting Around Ascona

• Public Transport

  In Ascona, the primary mode of public transport is the bus system. The local bus network is well-developed and connects all the major attractions and neighborhoods within the town. The bus fares are affordable, with single trip tickets typically costing around 2-3 CHF. The buses operate at regular intervals throughout the day, with reduced services in the evenings and on weekends.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The nearest train station to Ascona is in Locarno, which is approximately a 10-minute drive away. From Locarno, you can easily catch a bus or taxi to reach Ascona. Locarno train station is well-connected to major cities in Switzerland and Italy, making it a convenient hub for travelers. Additionally, the nearest airport to Ascona is Lugano Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive away.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: There are several car rental companies in Ascona, including major international brands and local providers. Prices for car rentals start from around 50 CHF per day, depending on the type of car and rental period. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Exploring Ascona by bicycle is a popular option among visitors. There are various rental shops in the town offering bicycles for hire, with rates starting from 10 CHF for a few hours or 20 CHF for a full day rental.