In summer, it is in Ticino that Switzerland starts to thaw: Dense snow and ice melt to make way for a Mediterranean climate, sandy beaches, palm trees, chestnut forests and a distinctly Italian feel.
For a little taste of Italy, visit Locarno spread over the river Maggio, complete with Old Town charm, central piazza and the mildest temperatures in Switzerland. Further South lies Lugano, owning a warm climate, cultural heritage, elegant museums and Lombardic-style architecture to be proud of. Lake Maggiore spanning over Switzerland and Italy is also in the region – a border hop offers the starting point of the popular Lake Maggiore Express train journey that travels through the winding Centovalli (100 Valleys) to Locarno.